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McNairy Co. Nursing student helps the homeless

Alcorn County Board of Supervisors meeting agenda

Corinth Board of Mayor, Aldermen agenda

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Daily Corinthian

Tuesday Jan. 3,

2017

75 cents

Vol. 121, No. 02

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• Corinth, Mississippi • 14 pages • One section

Top stories include heartwarming news BY ZACK STEEN zsteen@dailycorinthian.com

The Daily Corinthian’s biggest stories of 2016 weren’t all tragedies. More than half of the most viewed, liked, shared and all around talked about stories showed oﬀ the more heartwarming side of Crossroads

area news from the past year. The following is only a small sampling of the biggest stories of 2016 that appeared in the Daily Corinthian print edition and online at DailyCorinthian. com. • Gas station attendant fatally shot On the first day of February,

43-year-old mother of two Kris Ledlow was shot and killed as she worked the final 15 minutes of her shift at the Highway 72 East MAPCO Express gas station. Surveillance video helped Corinth police locate and capture Brooklyn Traylor and Micah Allan Bostic, who were both

arrested for murder. The original story is not only the most viewed DailyCorinthian.com story of 2016, but also holds the all-time record with almost 200,000 unique views. • KHS asked to change logo Kossuth High School’s long time steer logo received a makeover after the Alcorn School

District received a letter from the University of Texas in July. The university asked Kossuth to stop using the steer logo, which is extremely similar to the college’s longhorn logo. Three months later, the local school released a new logo, Please see STORIES | 2

Election commissioners take office oath unless you’ve been there, what the election commissioners do,” said Circuit Clerk Joe Caldwell, who works alongside the commissioners to hold elections. “There is a lot of responsibility. You’ve got to cross the T’s and dot the I’s.” He said the county is fortunate to have a good working relationship between the clerk’s oﬃce and the commissioners — something that is not necessarily true in a number of other Mississippi counties. The commission’s senior member, Dixon, is beginning a ninth fouryear term. McDaniel is beginning a fifth term, and Peebles is going into his fourth. Mitchell is beginning her first full term after serving a portion of a term.

BY JEBB JOHNSTON jjohnston@dailycorinthian.

Alcorn County’s election commissioners took the oath of office on Friday with one new member as a new term of office begins. Circuit Judge Paul Funderburk administered the oath in the courtroom of the Alcorn County Courthouse for Bobby McDaniel, district 1; John Peebles, district 2; Kim Ratliff, district 3; Sandy Coleman Mitchell, district 4; and Wendell Dixon, district 5. They are the individuals responsible for managing general and special elections in the county, maintaining the voter rolls, and hiring and managing the numerous poll workers who carry out the elections in the 17 county precincts. “Nobody realizes,

Please see OATH | 2

Staff photo by Jebb Johnston

Kim Ratliff recites the oath of office for election commissioner for the Third District Friday morning at the Alcorn County Courthouse. With him are his wife, Anjanette, and their son, Thomas, as circuit Judge Paul Funderburk leads the oath.

USS Shiloh gets letters from park visitors

People of the Crossroads Johnny Baswell, Glen Staff photo by Kimberly Shelton

BY PETTY OFFICER 3RD Class Michael Walston USS Shiloh Public Affairs

YOKOSUKA, Japan — Sailors assigned to the Ticonderogaclass guided missile-cruiser USS Shiloh (CG 67) received letters from visitors who stopped at Shiloh National Military Park in Shiloh, Tenn., throughout the summer of 2016. More than 200 people wrote the crew of SHILOH to express their appreciation for their sacrifice and service. The Shiloh, named after the pivotal Civil War battle that has been memorialized into a national park, is forward deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations since 2006. Visitors wrote to the Shiloh pouring out their hearts in appreciation. It was the most meaningful way for them to thank the Sailors for their sacrifice.

Please see LETTERS | 2

25 years ago

10 years ago

Benjamin Sheldon Moss is celebrated as the first baby born at Magnolia Hospital in 1992. He was born at 9:32 a.m. on Jan. 1.

Fourth District School Board Member Mary Kathryn Coleman and Third District Board Member Wilson Busby are sworn into their new terms of oﬃce.

10 Year Anniversary! Doug Michael Jumper McCreary

Rick Jones

A 1965 Alcorn Central High School graduate, Glen native Johnny Baswell served in the Company A, 2nd Battalion,13th Infantry of the United States Army. “During my service, I had the opportunity to travel to Germany where I got to go to Hitler’s Hideaway for a week,” he said. “I feel it would be good for any young man to go into the service to get some training and stability in their life.” Married to Julie Wiggington for 50 years, the 70-year-old is the father of Angela Helms, Tina Baswell, Dana Bailey, Bobby Adams and Jonathan Baswell. He is also the proud grandfather of seven and great-grandfather of one. A member of Scout Troop 123 at Christ United Methodist Church, Johnny counts himself blessed to have wonderful people in his life.

“Thank you for keeping the American people safe and free,” said the Harrison family, from Murfreesboro, Tenn. “Our family owes a debt so great, that we can scarcely begin to repay it. And “thanks just isn’t enough. Nevertheless, we do thank you and lift you all up in prayer, God bless you all.” “Thank for all you do to help keep the world safe and running! Your service is not unnoticed,” said Evelyn and Janice Brazzle from McEwen, Tenn. A “fellow vet” wrote, “As an Air Force veteran SAC (Strategic Air Command) of the Vietnam era I salute all courageous service members. Thank you for your service.” The families who visited the National Park used the letters to give recognition to the service of those who have given up so

Neil Paul

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2007-2017

John & Brenda Hayes

Alexis Rudd

Roger Clark

Audrey McNair

Carl Jones

2782 S Harper Rd

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2 • Tuesday, January 3, 2017 • Daily Corinthian

‘I shall not live In vain’ BY JIMMY REED Columnist

Long years of farming cotton in the Mississippi Delta set my circadian clock. I rarely sleep past four o’clock, and take long predawn walks, during which any worthwhile thoughts I have that day are likely to be formulated. Out walking one morning after Christmas, I ruminated about how I could turn past failures into successes in the coming year. Few things relieve … and delude … the human mind more than those annual promises to oneself: New Year’s Resolutions. If you asked Mark Twain about success, he would have said, “All you need is ignorance and confidence, and then success is sure.” If you asked Orison Swett Marden, you would have gotten volumes of answers; success is the central theme in most of his books. Among his best-known quotes are: “No one has a corner on success. It is his who pays the price”; “People must make the most possible out of what’s been given them. This is success — there is no other.”; “No man fails who does his best.”; “A will finds a way.” Encouraged by Marden, I scribbled several New Year’s “Not To’s”: I resolved not to talk about myself, but listen to others; not to squander money; not to stop taking morning walks; not to continue being an old dog reluctant to learn new tricks; not to worry instead of praying; not to miss church on Sundays. Not to … not to … not to — so many I almost resolved not to make any resolutions! That is, until the woman appeared. I had seen her several times during my predawn constitutionals. Old, shriveled, in clothes worn out with care, a hood covering her head, bent over a

cane, she searched for coins anywhere others might have dropped them — in parking lots, along sidewalks, in public telephone change slots. I always ignored her, but it was the season of giving. Would I continue being Scrooge? No! I strode up to her, extended a $20 bill, and said, “Happy New Year, Ma’am.” Clutching the money to her breast in trembling hands, she raised her head, and from within the ragged hood’s black void, a smile that probably had not shone for years appeared, and I heard a tender, emotionstrangled voice say, “Oh, Mister, thank you, thank you so very much.” As I watched her fade into the lonely darkness, I sensed a level of peace in my soul that I have rarely known. I tore up my long list of New Year’s resolutions and replaced it with a single promise to myself: Face each new day resolving not to pass up opportunities to make it a happy one for a fellow human being. Strolling homeward, I recalled a few lines penned by American poet Emily Dickinson: If I can stop one heart from breaking, I shall not live in vain. If I can ease one life the aching, Or cool one pain, Or help one fainting robin Unto his nest again, I shall not live in vain. (Oxford resident, Ole Miss alumnus, Army veteran, and retired Mississippi Delta cotton farmer Jimmy Reed (jimmycecilreedjr@ gmail.com) is a newspaper columnist, author and college teacher. His books are available via Squarebooks. com, telephone 662-2362262.)

A Ticonderogaclass guided missile cruiser, left, of the United States Navy, the USS Shiloh (CG-67) is named in remembrance of the Battle of Shiloh in the American Civil War. Letters like these, below, were written by Shiloh National Military Park visitors to the crew of the USS Shiloh.

LETTERS CONTINUED FROM 1

much in the name of freedom. Petty Oﬃcer 3rd Class Michael Walston, of Rancho, New Mexico, said, “This little reminder is something we as service members appreciate, with our busy schedules of work and deployments. We often forget to appreciate ourselves for what we accomplish day in and day out.” The Shiloh crew is thankful for all of the heartfelt words sent to them from home during this holiday season and hopes to continue receiving letters for years to come. Shiloh is forward deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations in support of security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. Staff photo by Jebb Johnston

Among those present at Friday’s oath of office ceremony for election commissioners are, from left, Bobby McDaniel, John Peebles, Kim Ratliff, Circuit Judge Paul Funderburk, Sandy Coleman Mitchell, Wendell Dixon and Circuit Clerk Joe Caldwell.

OATH CONTINUED FROM 1

2016

your duties and responsibilities. On the other hand, there is nothing in there that tells you how to go about performing those duties.” Barring any special elections that might arise, this is an “oﬀ” election year with nothing scheduled at the county, state or federal level. Most municipalities across the state will have elections this year.

STORIES

BABIES

CONTINUED FROM 1

ending the branding dispute. Kossuth’s use of the similar logo was first reported by Texas fan website, Burnt Orange Nation, and gained a lot of attention on Facebook and Twitter. • Dog lovers search for stray

Moms, Dads, Grandparents, God Parents, Aunts, Uncles or Friends. The Daily Corinthian will be featuring the “Babies of 2016” on January 22th, 2017. If you or someone you know has had a baby in 2016, we want to feature that baby on this special page.

Please send in form b below l with photo & payment of $20 to: Mail Drop Off Daily Corinthian 1607 S. Harper Rd. PO Box 1800 Corinth, MS Corinth, MS 38835-1800 You may also email to: classad@dailycorinthian.com

Baby’s Name Date of Birth Parents Name Address Phone Number Persons signature & phone number who is placing ad. Credit or Debit Card # Exp. Date Check #

New to the commission is Ratliﬀ, a City of Corinth employee with code enforcement duties and pastor of St. Mark Baptist Church. He is feeling humbled by the job the voters have given him. “I look forward to this opportunity to learn, serve and grow in this role,” said Ratliﬀ. “Being a lover of people, I am also

looking forward to the opportunity to develop more relationships.” Funderburk talked about the challenges that face election commissions. “Most people have no idea of the duties and responsibilities that are imposed on election commissioners in each of the counties of this state,” he said. “There are many, many statutes that set out

Cash

Deadline Deadline is is Friday, Friday, January January 13, 13, 2017 2016 “Babies “Babies of of 2016” 2016” will will publish publish on on Sunday, Sunday, January January 22nd, 22nd, 2017 2017

In February, many Crossroads residents began asking the same question that is still being asked, “where’s Harper?” The stray dog lived at the corner of Harper Road and Proper Street for more than 10 years, escaping many attempted captures and close calls with oncoming traﬃc. Presumed to have been taken, residents started asking, who could have taken Harper and why? What exactly happened to Corinth’s most famous canine remains a mystery to this day. • Agent, suspect dies in shootout A domestic situation quickly turned into a six-hour standoﬀ in mid-February. Charles Lee Lambert exchanged gunfire with Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics agents after Lambert refused to let his wife and 10-year-old daughter leave their Iuka residence. In the shootout, Lambert and 22year veteran MBN agent Lee Tartt were killed. In addition, three state troopers were also wounded. Lambert’s wife and daughter were rescued without injury. • Corinth ‘Peace’ Department A Brandon family praised the Corinth Police Department following an overnight break-in of their vehicle in the Holiday Inn Express parking lot in August. Although nothing was taken from their vehicle, the Weikleenget family used the scary incident and “joyful” experience with Corinth police as a chance to teach

their two-year-old daughter about the importance of law enforcement. Officers continued to “check on” the family during the rest of their stay in the Crossroads. The family started calling local law enforcement the Corinth “peace” officers and posted a thank you on Facebook that was shared across the state. • Former sheriff enters guilty plea Former sheriff Charles Rinehart and two others entered guilty pleas to two counts of conspiracy to defraud and two counts of fraud against Alcorn County in early December. Rinehart entered an Alford plea in which the defendant pleads guilty but does not admit to the criminal act. The case deals with vehicle purchases for the sheriff’s department from Pamela Denise Null and Teddy Cleveland Null. The three were sentenced to 20 years but were placed in the house arrest program as an alternative to incarceration. • District closes two schools Emotions ran high in March when Alcorn School District officials voted to close the county’s two smallest schools. Superintendent of Education Larry B. Mitchell said the closing would save the district more than $700,000 per year. Both Glendale and Rienzi elementary schools closed for good in May. Students at each school were sent to Biggersville, Alcorn Central and Kossuth. The 3-2 vote by the school board also caused board president Carrol Morton to resign. • Harper Square to get revamp Arts and crafts retail giant Hobby Lobby will soon call Corinth home. In August, Southeast Real Estate Development Group announced its intention to purchase Harper Square Mall, demolish portions of the old structure and construct a new building for Hobby Lobby. Little Ceasars will also get a new, freestanding location.

Tuesday, January 3, 2017

Today in History

Local/Region

Nursing student helps the homeless BY JEFF YORK

Today is Tuesday, Jan. 3, the third day of 2017. There are 362 days left in the year.

Today’s Highlight in History: On Jan. 3, 1967, Jack Ruby, the man who shot and killed Lee Harvey Oswald, the accused assassin of President John F. Kennedy, died in a Dallas hospital.

On this date: In 1521, Martin Luther was excommunicated from the Roman Catholic Church by Pope Leo X. In 1777, Gen. George Washington’s army routed the British in the Battle of Princeton, New Jersey. In 1870, groundbreaking took place for the Brooklyn Bridge. In 1892, J.R.R. Tolkien, author of the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy, was born in Bloemfontein, South Africa. In 1911, the first postal savings banks were opened by the U.S. Post Office. (The banks were abolished in 1966.) In 1938, the March of Dimes campaign to fight polio was established by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who himself had been afflicted with the crippling disease. In 1946, William Joyce, the pro-Nazi radio propagandist known as “Lord Haw-Haw,” was hanged at Wandsworth Prison in London for high treason. In 1947, congressional proceedings were televised for the first time as viewers in Washington, Philadelphia and New York got to see some of the opening ceremonies of the 80th Congress. In 1959, Alaska became the 49th state as President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a proclamation. In 1977, Apple Computer was incorporated in Cupertino, California, by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak and Mike Makkula Jr. In 1980, conservationist Joy Adamson, author of “Born Free,” was killed in northern Kenya by a former employee. In 1997, Bryant Gumbel signed off for the last time as host of NBC’s “Today” show.

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For the Daily Corinthian

An aspiring nurse has already started her life’s goal of helping the less fortunate with an immediate focus on aiding the homeless population in Jackson, Tenn. Anna Collins, a 2014 graduate of McNairy Central High School, was inspired recently to begin “Blessing Bags” to give to help the homeless with basic necessities in life. Collins is a nursing student at Union University with plans to graduate in May 2018. “My mom and I were shopping in Jackson when I noticed a homeless man,” said Collins. “I just knew that I had to do something to help him. He was alone on

Christmas Eve and that just got to me. I gave him $5 and that made me want to do more for him.” Collins said the homeless population had been on heart since she was a child. She got the idea to do the “Blessing Bags” after her experience with the man on Christmas Eve. Her plan is to include in the bag items like socks, hygiene items, peanut butter, soap, wet wipes, hard candy, toothpaste and tooth brush, cheese & crackers, bottled water, soap, crackers, $5, plus loose change. “You can put together a bag for a small amount of money and it will help them a great deal,” said Collins. “I also put a note card with a Bible verse Psalm

46:1 on it inside the bag.” The note reads “Here’s a Blessing Bag for you! You may be down on your luck right now, but let this little bag remind you that you are worth so much. There are people who care about you. There is always hope, and Jesus can sustain you. I will be praying for you! God Bless!” The idea of the homeless problem in Jackson became clear to Collins while doing a feet clinical as part of her nursing study at Union. Collins said she plans to keep five “Blessing Bags” in her car at a time to distribute when she spots someone in need. “I just roll my window and give them the bag,” remarked

Collins. “I have never felt unsafe when trying to help someone.” She made her initial post about the “Blessing Bags” on Facebook on Dec. 26 and the message quickly drew attention from her friends. “I have gotten several comments on Facebook about the post and some have oﬀered ideas on what you could put in the bag,” Collins said. Lynn Hockaday, Collins’ aunt, was inspired by her niece and will began a similar ministry at Bethesda Presbyterian Church. If you would like more information about the inspirational bags, you can contact Collins on Facebook or email her at annamargc@gmail.com.

New year means new state laws take effect BY JEFF YORK For the Daily Corinthian

McNAIRY COUNTY, Tenn. — The beginning of another year means several new laws will take eﬀect on Jan. 1 in McNairy County and throughout the state. A new law will state that people convicted of vehicular homicide where alcohol or drugs were involved will be ineligible for parole starting in the New Year. The sentencing will be harsher for those convicted of robbing a pharmacy to get a controlled substance. New sentence enhancement includes charges of

robbery, aggravated robbery and especially aggravated robbery. There will be two new handgun permit laws. Those who are 18 to 20 years old who are active duty, retired or honorably discharged from the military will be allowed to apply for handgun permits. Tennessee residents must be at least 21 years old to get a carry permit for handguns, if they are not connected to the military. Lifetime handgun permits will decrease in costs from $500 to $200. Tennessee brewers will be allowed to make higher alcohol

content beers without a specialty license under a law that raises the alcohol by weight (ABW) limit to eight percent from five percent. The law allows the state’s grocery and convenience stores to sell high-gravity beers. The new law increases the alcohol by volume (ABV) limit from about 6.2 percent to about 10.1 percent. This bill is being done to help the state’s craft beer industry. A new law will increase the penalty for drivers without insurance to $300 from $100. Law enforcement will begin using an online tool to find out which

drivers are covered. Drivers who can’t show proof of insurance could also face a Class C misdemeanor. Most high school seniors in the state will be required to pass a U.S. civics test before graduating. The test will have between 15-20 questions taken from the test given to those seeking citizenship in the country. A senior can take the test as many times as necessary to pass. The student must answer 70 percent of the questions right to pass. Some students in individualized education programs will not be required to take the test.

Corinth Board of Mayor, Aldermen agenda The Corinth Board of Mayor and Aldermen will have a regular meeting at 5 p.m. today at City Hall. The agenda for the first

meeting of the new year is: • Hearings for property cleanup • Reports of the department heads

• Consider equipment quotes for three new police department vehicles • Accept Hot Spot community policing grant • Quotes for fire de-

partment equipment • Consider expansion of revitalization plan for Bradley Road housing development • Board of adjustment

and planning commission matters • Approval of licenses, if any • Meeting minutes from Dec. 6

Alcorn County Board of Supervisors agenda The Alcorn County Board of Supervisors will meet at 9 a.m. today at the supervisors’ oﬃce on Fulton Drive. The agenda of business for the first meeting of the new year is: • Call to order and prayer by Bro. Merl Dixon • Financial report and payment of claims, Dec.

19 - Jan. 3 • Appoint board attorney • Bid opening for county depository • Travel authorization for Willie Justice — Youth Court and MYKIDS seminar in Oxford on Jan. 11 • Observance of Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday and Robert E. Lee’s

birthday on Jan. 16 • 2016 continuing disclosure submission • Invoices from Clayton O’Donnell • Discuss computer system contract • Assessment changes • Quotes on installation services, furniture, equipment and grounding at the 911 communi-

cations office • Notice to Buddy Ayers Construction to proceed on project SAP-02(68) • Invoices from Cook Coggin Engineers • Correspondence from Cook Coggin Engineers to Office of State Aid Road Construction • Correspondence from Office of State Aid

Road Construction to Parsons Earthworks • Correspondence from Oﬃce of State Aid Road Construction to Buddy Ayers Construction • Contractor payment on Crossroads Regional Park project • Sheriﬀ’s report • County engineer’s report

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4 • Tuesday, January 3, 2017

Corinth, Miss.

House GOP maintains unity through caucus meetings JACKSON — In Congress, they call it the Hastert rule — the idea that a majority of the majority party must approve of legislation before it comes to the floor. Maybe in Mississippi they will call it the Gunn Jeff Amy rule, because Republican House Speaker Philip Gunn’s Columnist practice of vetting legislation in Republican caucus meetings is altering the Legislature’s dynamics. Former U.S. House Speaker Dennis Hastert said he didn’t invent the principle, saying it’s common sense that a legislative leader chosen by members of a particular party should generally avoid passing legislation against the party’s wishes. But in the bygone world where all Mississippi lawmakers were Democrats, a party label meant almost nothing, and coalitions were assembled bill-by-bill. The polarized Legislature created by the ascendance of Republicans has led to more of a parliamentary system in the House, where Republicans feel pressure to vote in lockstep on key bills. Nothing symbolized this change better than the decision to reorder the House’s electronic voting board at the start of the 2015 session, grouping Republicans and Democrats by party, instead of listing all members alphabetically. Before, it took close study of a voting tally sheet to see which members crossed party lines. Now it’s obvious in a glance. Changes to these norms generated much screaming in the House. Old-line legislative norms said you didn’t mess with another lawmaker’s local affairs, but Republicans moved to transfer control of Jackson’s airports from a mayor-appointed board. Tradition said lawmakers could build leverage through the delaying tactic of forcing bills to be read, but Republicans cranked up a bill-reading machine to an unintelligible blur. House rules let aggrieved members vent through a speech called a point of personal privilege; Republicans killed it for three weeks over filibuster concerns before restoring it in modified form. Debate inside closed caucus meetings helps maintain that united front. But the GOP-first principle makes it harder to pass legislation that needs at least some Democratic support. That was most clearly illustrated last year as lawmakers considered whether to raise fuel taxes to fund roads and bridges. In the Senate, Republican Lt. Gov. Tate Reeves cobbled together enough Democrats and Republicans to provide the 60 percent majority needed to pass a placeholder bill that could have allowed a more concrete proposal later. But in the House, Transportation Committee Chairman Charles Busby, R-Pascagoula, never found a proposal that won support. With some GOP members committed to voting against tax increases no matter what, it was always obvious that any successful bill would need sizeable Democratic support in the House. But Democrats were so angry by that point that they were unlikely to support any significant Republican initiative. How do Democrats feel? Listen to Preston Sullivan of Okolona, one of the more conservative Democrats remaining in the House, who used to sit next to Gunn: “My old desk mate, he don’t listen to me anymore. He thinks I’m the enemy, I guess.” Rep. Rob Roberson, a Starkville Republican who returned to the House in 2015 after losing his previous seat in redistricting, said leading through the caucus is different than how things worked when Democrat Tim Ford was speaker and a small circle made decisions. “The caucus is actually a wider opinion source than previous speakers used,” Roberson said. But Roberson is also among members who’d like to see a less partisan spirit in the House. “There’s a person behind that D or that R,” Roberson said. Jeff Amy has covered politics and government for The Associated Press in Mississippi since 2011. Follow him at: http://twitter. com/jeffamy.

Prayer for today Almighty God, may I understand that thou art in everything and that I cannot hide from thee, for thou boldest me though I know it not. Give me the desire, and help me to learn of thy laws, that I may know that even in the least of things, I have the liberty to obtain happiness by obeying them. Amen.

A verse to share Sing to him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy. —Psalm 33:3

Americans no longer on the move Americans see themselves as people on the move. When the going gets tough or when opportunity beckons, we get up and go. We move around a lot. Actually, we don’t -- or don’t nearly so much as we used to. The percentage of Americans moving every year is less than half that of a half-century ago and down significantly since the 1990s. Some of that decline is a response to the economic cycle. Contrary to widespread impression, mobility tends to decline in bad economic times. The Okies moving from the Dust Bowl to the Central Valley of California made a big impression in the 1930s because they were the exception, not the rule. Most Americans stayed put and ate vegetables raised in their gardens, making do as best they could. The vast movements to the western frontier had ended decades earlier, and farm-to-factory migration went on pause. Foreign immigration was almost nonexistent, even below the low quotas set in the restrictive Immigration Act of 1924. Then, during World War II, Americans moved around a lot, serving in the military, working in defense plants, leaving behind farm counties whose population peaked in the 1940 census. It became a habit. In the postwar years, millions of whites moved to California,

the golden state they had seen in the war and the movies, while one-third Michael of AmeriBarone can blacks moved from Columnist the segregated rural South to what they believed was “the promised land” of northern industrial cities. You can see in the statistics similar movement away from the Rust Belt in response to factory closings during the recessions of 1979-83. Laid-oﬀ autoworkers in Detroit bought copies of the Sunday Houston Chronicle to scan help wanted ads. Steelworkers in Pittsburgh and coal miners in West Virginia rented UHauls for points south and west. You haven’t seen similar mobility in the slow-growth years of this century. There is heavy domestic outmigration from high-cost, high-immigration metro New York, Chicago and Los Angeles to the interior. But people in the Rust Belt have been staying put. To understand why, read Ron Bailey’s riveting Dec. 10 article for Reason, titled “Stuck,” about his family’s ancestral home in McDowell County, West Virginia. It was the nation’s No. 1 coalproducing county in 1950,

when the Baileys left. Many others did, too; McDowell County’s population declined from 98,000 in 1950 to 22,000 in 2010. But few people are leaving now -- even though those who remain are in miserable shape. McDowell County has the lowest male life expectancy of any American county, and it has a high percentage of heroin addiction. Only about half of children are raised in twoparent families. It also has a very high dependency on government. As Bailey reports, nearly 47 percent of personal income comes from Social Security, disability insurance (some 9 percent of West Virginia adults get disability payments), food stamps and other federal programs. McDowell County is a prime example of the dysfunctional communities that have caused the increase, identified by economists Angus Deaton and Anne Case, in mortality rates of middleaged white Americans. Government benefits, even federal benefits, are not readily transferable and tend to keep beneficiaries stuck in place. They often can’t obtain jobs in growth areas because of occupational licensing laws or drug testing, and they aren’t interested in competing for jobs with low-wage immigrants jammed into expensive housing in coastal

metro areas. Labor market economic theory posits that workers will move to jobs. But history teaches that mobility is not just a matter of economic calculation. For most people, staying put is the default mode. They only move to pursue dreams or escape nightmares. And they don’t move where they think they are not wanted. Only 2 million black and white Southerners moved to the higherpay North between 1865 and 1940, even as 30 million European immigrants streamed there. Southerners considered the North a nightmarishly alien territory; Europeans sought escape from the nightmare of second-class status in multiethnic empires. The World War II experience convinced a generation or two of Americans that they could realize their dreams by getting up and going. But the war ended 71 years ago, and the postwar years are dimming in the rearview mirror. Some Americans are still on the move. But many are stuck in nightmare settings that they seem unable to escape. Michael Barone is a senior political analyst for the Washington Examiner, resident fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and longtime co-author of The Almanac of American Politics.

Random thoughts on looking back Any honest man, looking back on a very long life, must admit -- even if only to himself -- being a relic of a bygone era. Having lived long enough to have seen both “the greatest generation” that fought World War II and the gratingest generation that we see all around us today, makes being a relic of the past more of a boast than an admission. Not everything in the past was admirable. Poet W.H. Auden called the 1930s “a low dishonest decade.” So were the 1960s, which launched many of the trends we are experiencing so painfully today. Some of the fashionable notions of the 1930s reappeared in the 1960s, often using the very same discredited words and producing the same disastrous consequences. The old are not really smarter than the young, in terms of sheer brainpower. It is just that we have already made the kinds of mistakes that the young are about to make, and we have already suﬀered the consequences that the young are going to suﬀer, if they dis-

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regard the record of the past. If you want to understand the fatal Thomas dangers facSowell ing America today, read Columnist “The Gathering Storm” by Winston Churchill. The book is not about America, the Middle East or nuclear missiles. But it shows Europe’s attitudes and delusions -- aimed at peace in the years before the Second World War -- which instead ended up bringing on that most terrible war in all of human history. Black adults, during the years when I was growing up in Harlem, had far less education than black adults today -- but far more common sense. In an age of artificial intelligence, too many of our schools and colleges are producing artificial stupidity, among both blacks and whites. The first time I traveled across the Atlantic Ocean, as the plane flew into the

skies over London I was struck by the thought that, in these skies, a thousand British fighter pilots fought off Hitler’s air force and saved both Britain and Western civilization. But how many students today will have any idea of such things, with history being neglected in favor of politically correct rhetoric? You cannot live a long life without having been forced to change your mind many times about people and things -- including in some cases, your whole view of the world. Those who glorify the young today do them a great disservice, when this sends inexperienced young people out into the world cocksure about things on which they have barely scratched the surface. In my first overseas trip, I was struck by blatantly obvious differences in behavior among different groups, such as the Malays and the Chinese in Malaysia -- and wondered why scholars who were far more well-traveled than I was seemed not to have noticed such things, and to have resorted to all

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sorts of esoteric theories to explain why some groups earned higher incomes than others. There are words that were once common, but which are seldom heard any more. The phrase “none of your business” is one of these. Today, everything seems to be the government’s business or the media’s business. And the word “risque” would be almost impossible to explain to young people, in a world where gross vulgarity is widespread and widely accepted. The first column I ever wrote, 39 years ago, was titled “The Profits of Doom.” This was long before Al Gore made millions of dollars promoting global warming hysteria. Back in 1970, the prevailing hysteria was the threat of a new ice age -- promoted by some of the same environmentalists who are promoting global warming hysteria today. Thomas Sowell is a senior fellow at the Hoover Institution, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305. His website is www.tsowell.com.

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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 3, 2017 • 5

Assistance Donations needed The American Veterans Official Donation Station is seeking donations of clothing, shoes and household goods. The station is located in the blue building at the corner of Shiloh Market and Fred’s.

Free Hot Meal Are you or someone you know in need of a free meal? If so, The Central Church would be honored to serve you. No strings attached. We serve every Wednesday evening from 6-6:45 at The Central Church. 293 CR 218 (Central School Rd). For more info call 662-284-6094.

Elderly/Disabled Program The Northeast MS Planning and Development District/ Elderly and Disabled Medicaid Waiver Program is expanding in Alcorn County. This Home and Community Based Program is an alternative to nursing home placement and can offer services such as Personal Care Attendants, Expanded Home Health Services, Home Delivered Meals, Adult Day Services, InHome Respite and Case Management. If you or someone you know is interested in this program, please call Irene Keller at 662-728-7038 for details.

T.O.P.S The Corinth Chapter 0359 of T.O.P.S (Take off Pounds Sensibly) will hold chapter meetings at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesdays at Waldron Street Christian Church. The local chapter was founded on Jan. 18, 2012. A non-profit weight loss support group, T.O.P.S has helped millions of people take off weight for over 60 years. Participants will arrive between 10 and 10:30 a.m. for a confidential weigh in by appointed weight recorders. At 10:30 a.m. rollcall will be held. The first meeting is free.

Free Yoga Weekly chair yoga classes taught by Certified Yoga Instructor Karen Beth Martin are held every Thursday at 10 a.m., in the St. Paul’s Episcopal Church fellowship hall. Each class is 40-45 minutes in length and are tailored to the abilities and limitations of those attending with the goal of improving strength, flexibility and balance. The class,

geared toward seniors, is open to the public. Class is donation-based. For questions, contact the church office at 662286-2922.

Retiree breakfast The Caterpillar Retiree Breakfast is held the first Monday of each month at 7:30 a.m. at Martha’s Menu in Corinth.

Mississippi Youth Challenge Mississippi Youth Challenge Academy features a structured environment with a focus on job training, social skills and selfdiscipline. Other academic opportunities include high school diploma, college classes through a local university and nationally certified construction skills. The academy is designed to meet the needs of today’s “at risk” youth. Both males and females, 16-18 years old, can apply. Applicants can earn their GEDs. Tuition is free. For more information, call 1-800-5076253 or visit www.msyouthchallenge.org.

Volunteers needed • Hospice Advantage in Corinth is looking for volunteers in the surrounding area: Corinth, Tippah, Tishomingo and Prentiss County. Volunteering is a wonderful way to give back to your community and lend a helping hand to the elderly. For more information, call Carla Nelson, volunteer coordinator with Hospice Advantage on becoming a volunteer at 662-665-9185 or 662279-0435. The website is hospiceadvantage. com. • Magnolia Regional Hospice is currently seeking individuals or groups to be trained as volunteers. Hospice is a program of caring for individuals who are terminally ill and choose to remain at home with family or a caregiver. Some of the ministry opportunities for volunteers are sitting with the patient in their homes to allow the caregiver a break, grocery shopping, reading to a patient, craft opportunities, bereavement/grief support and in-office work. For more information, contact Lila Wade, volunteer coordinator at 662-293-1405 or 1-800843-7553. • Legacy Hospice is looking for volunteers. Legacy needs special people with special hearts and volunteers

who are wanting to help others. Their duties will be helping with the support of patients and caregivers, writing letters, making phone calls, and community activities. There is a training period involved at no cost. If interested, contact Julie Hutchins, volunteer coordinator at Legacy Hospice, 301 East Waldron St, Corinth or call 662-286-5333. • Alliance Hospice is looking for volunteers in the area that enjoy visiting and giving back in the community. If interested call 662-2869833 or e-mail sabrina@ alliancehospice.net.

Senior activities The First Presbyterian Senior Adult Ministry has two fitness classes available to senior adults. Ruby Browning leads a stretching/toning class every second Thursday from 9 a.m.–10 a.m. in the fellowship hall. There is no charge. Call the church office at 662-286-6638 or Kimberly Grantham at 662-284-7498 for more information.

Red Cross The Northeast Mississippi Chapter of the Red Cross offers a wide variety of assistance and services, including disaster relief. The Northeast Mississippi Chapter includes 16 counties. It is headquartered in Tupelo, with offices in Tishomingo, New Albany, Starkville and Columbus. Although Red Cross no longer has a Corinth office, the organization wants to stress it continues to offer services in Alcorn County. People seeking disaster assistance in Northeast Mississippi can call the Tupelo headquarters during office hours at 662-842-6101. The tollfree after hours phone line is 1-855-891-7325. The Red Cross’ service line for the armed forces is 877-272-7337. They also offer health and safety training, including first aid, baby-sitting and CPR, as well as disaster training for businesses. To learn more about the Red Cross health and safety training call 1-800-733-2767.

Friendship class The Friendship Class meets weekly on Thurs-

day at 6:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall of the First Presbyterian Church on Shiloh Road. This group of mentally challenged adults and mentors enjoy sharing time together, games, crafts, singing and refreshments. For more information, call the church office at 662-286-6638.

Story Hour Pre-school Story Hour is held each Thursday at 10 a.m. at the Corinth Library. Year-round art exhibits are also on display and educational non-profit groups meet in the auditorium monthly. The Corinth Friends of the Library hold their ongoing book sale inside the library. Hardback, paperback and audio books, and VHS and DVD donations to the library are always appreciated. For more information, call 662-287-2441.

Quilt Guild meets The Cross City Piecemakers Quilt Guild meets on the third Thursday of each month at the Homemakers Extension Office (beside the arena) at 1 p.m. Anyone interested in quilting (learning or collecting) is invited to attend. For more information, contact Sharon at 662-287-0987.

Marine Corps meet The Corinth Marine Corps League meets the first Tuesday of every month at Martha’s Menu, downtown Corinth, at 6 p.m.

Children with disabilities The Alcorn and Corinth School Districts are participating in an ongoing statewide effort to identify, locate and evaluate children birth through the age of 21 who have a physical, mental, communicative and/or emotional disability. Early identification of children in need of special educational experiences is important to each child. The information gathered from contacts with parents other agencies will also be used to help determine present and future program needs as progress is made toward the goal of providing a free, appropriate public education to all children with a disability. Contact Stephanie

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Clausel at the Alcorn School District or Linda Phillips at the Corinth School District with information on any children who may have a disability by calling or writing to: Alcorn School District, Special Services, 31 County Road 401, Corinth, MS 38834, 662-286-7734 or Corinth School District Special Services, 1204 North Harper Road, Corinth, MS 38834, 662287-2425.

Genealogy society The Alcorn County Genealogical Society is located at the southeast corner of the Alcorn County Courthouse basement in the old veterans’ services office. It is open Tuesday-Friday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. The Society can be contacted at 662-286-0075 or email acgs2@att.net.

Support groups • 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. • A Narcotics Anonymous meeting is held on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. at the Johnson-FordMitchell Community Center, 707 Spring Street in Iuka. Call 662-279-6435 for directions. • Narcotics Anonymous “If you want what we have” will meet at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church at 4203 Shiloh Road at 7 p.m. on Mondays, Thursdays and the third Saturday of every month. • The “Downtown Corinth” of AA meets Sundays at 8 p.m. for speaker meetings and Tuesdays at 7 p.m. for closed topic discussion meetings at the First Baptist Church (side pavilion) at 501 N. Main Street, Corinth. For more information for all area AA groups, please call 662-212-2235. • An Alcoholics Anonymous meeting is held in Iuka at the old Chevy dealership building

off old Hwy. 25 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. • 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. • The “Good Grief” ministry of the HopewellIndian Springs United Methodist Charge is a collaborative effort of both churches and meets every Wednesday afternoon at 3 p.m. in the dining room of the Arby’s Restaurant, 706 Highway 72 East, Corinth. The ministry was established to support those who have experienced a devastating life event such as the death of a loved one, diagnosis of a terminal illness or condition, the loss of a spouse or parent through divorce, even the loss of a job or home. The ministry is non-denominational and open to all. There is no cost to attend and no obligation to continue. For more information, call Bro. Rick Wells, pastor of Hopewell and Indian Springs United Methodist Charge and facilitator at 662-5879602. • The Al-Anon fellowship of relatives and friends of alcoholics meets at 7 p.m. on Mondays at the Corinth First Baptist Church. Attendees should enter at the courtyard side on Fillmore St. For more information call 662-2877819.

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6 • Tuesday, January 3, 2017 • Daily Corinthian

Deaths Joshua Fett

Services to celebrate the life of Joshua Allen Fett, 35, of Corinth, are set for 11 a.m. Thursday at Memorial Funeral Home with Bro. Warren Jones and Bro. Tim Alvis officiating. Burial will follow in Valley of the Dogwood Cemetery. Visitation is Wednesday from 5 to 8:00 p.m. Mr. Fett died Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017, at his residence. He was born in Memphis on Feb. 23, 1981. He attended Alcorn Central High School and was a member of Oakland Baptist Church. He loved science fiction, long car rides, dining out and spending time with his family. Survivors are his mother, Allison Fett of Corinth; his

Annie Mae Suggs

Services for Annie Mae Suggs are set for 11 a.m. Wednesday at Chewalla Baptist Church. Visitation is Tuesday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the church. Ms. Suggs died Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017, at Magnolia Regional Health Center. Memorial Funeral Home has the arrangements.

Candace Tucker NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Candace Tucker died

father, Allen Fett and wife Teresa of Corinth; brothers Forrest Fett of Denver and Devyn Rossi of Memphis; his grandmother, Joyce Duquette; his grandfather, Ray Burcham; an aunt, Merry Overholt and husband Vince; an uncle, Danny Burcham and his wife, Sandy; a greatuncle, Nowell Gann; and a great-aunt and uncle, Lucille and Buddy Wallace. He also leaves behind a host of other aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and family. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Thomas and Betty Fett and Thomas Duquette; an aunt, Suzette Ford; and a great-aunt, Marcella Gann. Online guestbook: memorialcorinth.com

Saturday, Dec. 31, 2016, at her home in Nashville. McPeters Inc. Funeral Directors will have the arrangements.

Gerald L. Gray

Funeral services for Gerald L. Gray, 82, of Corinth, are set for 2 p.m. Tuesday at Magnolia Funeral Home Chapel of Memories with burial at Forrest Memorial Park. Visitation is from 12 noon until the service. Mr. Gray died Saturday,

Lynette Harris

Funeral services for Carrie Lynette Harris, 87, are set for 2 p.m. Tuesday at McPeters Inc. Funeral Directors Chapel with Bill Terry oﬃciating. Burial will be in Forrest Memorial Park. Visitation is from 12 noon until the service. Mrs. Harris died Sunday, Jan. 1, 2017, at Cornerstone Health and Rehab. She was born Sept. 5, 1929, in Alcorn County to the late Walter and Birdie Jobe Rogers. A member of Christ United Methodist Church, she worked at Weaver Pants Factory and retired from ITT. She was a member of the Eastern Star. She was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond Harris; her parents; and

Dec. 31, 2016, at his home. B o r n April 23, 1934, he was a tile setter/ contracGray tor and a member of Foote Street Church of Christ. Survivors are his wife of 55 years, Janice Gray of Corinth; a son, Gregory Gerald Gray of Corinth; daughters Kimberly Ann Pyles (Minister Tim) of Tulsa, Okla., and Jennifer Lyn Strickland of Corinth; a brother, Larry Gray of Gulfport; three

brothers Aaron, Harold and Simon Rogers, and Mark and Lin Dilworth. Survivors are her nephews, Jerry Rogers, Barry Rogers and Danny Dilworth; nieces Teresa Duﬀy, Delores Stone, Theresa Glenn, Karen Terry, Paulette Garrett and Lenoir Lane; sister-in-law Candy Rogers and Melinda Rogers; special family Sheila (Larry) Stevens and their children, Shelanda Jordan and Brittany Park. Online guestbook: mcpetersfuneraldirectors.com ‘Boo’ McCreless Celebration of life for Danny “Boo” McCreless, 32, is set for 1 p.m. Wednesday at McPeters Inc. Funeral Directors Chapel. Visitation is Wednesday from 11 a.m. until the service. Mr. McCreless died Friday,

sisters, Dorothy McCluskey, Marie Waldrop and Martha Ann Albright, all of Corinth; and four grandchildren, Hannah Pyles Kingcade (Reece), Coleman Bradford Pyles, Mary Fenley Strickland and Benjamin David Strickland. He was preceded in death by his parents, Noel H. Gray and Ruth Evelyn Gray; two brothers, Noel Herbert Gray Jr. and Jerry Gene Gray; and a sister, Mary Alice Eygabroad. Minister Tim Pyles will oﬃciate the service.

Mary Wheeler

IUKA — Funeral services for Mary Evelyn “Sis”

Dec. 30, 2016, in Booneville. Born in Corinth on Sept. 5, 1984, he attended Alcorn Central High School and was employed with Lamar Advertising. He enjoyed fishing and spending time with his family and friends. Survivors are one son, Kameron McCreless; one daughter, Bailey McCreless; his father, Danny “Payday” McCreless Sr.; his mother, Joyce Gurley McCreless; two brothers, Dewayne (Kim) McCreless and Shane (Ginger) McCreless; two sisters, Shelly (Johnny) Hollins and April (James) Bradley; aunts Carolyn Pittman and Mary Allred; and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends. Online guestbook: mcpetersfuneraldirectors.com

Gurley Wheeler, 93, are set for 1 p.m. Tuesday at Cutshall Funeral Home Chapel in Iuka with burial in Cypress Grove Cemetery. Visitation is from 11:30 a.m. until the service. Mrs. Wheeler died Saturday, Dec. 31, 2016, at Carrington House Assisted Living in Iuka. Born in Dorsey in Itawamba County to the late Curtis Dudley and Stella Crawford Gurley on Aug. 27, 1923, she was a member of Iuka Baptist Church. She was employed for many years at Iuka Guaranty Bank where she worked as an assistant cashier, eventually retir-

ing to care for her mother and husband. Mrs. Wheeler was also a longtime member of the Lucy Rowe Club. Survivors are one sister, Betty Young of Iuka, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Cortis Basil Wheeler; her mother, Stella Crawford Gurley; one sister, Bonnie Ruth Bullard; and three brothers, Aubrey Laverne Gurley, Billy H. Gurley and Loren Dale Gurley. Memorial contributions may be made to Iuka Baptist Church or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Sentencing to begin in slayings BY MEG KINNARD Associated Press

CHARLESTON, S.C. — After a judge ruled Monday that Dylann Roof is competent to represent himself, the same jury that last month unanimously found him guilty

IN MEMORIAM Remembering loved ones we’ve lost.. ... in

2016

Please send your Memorial (Must be no more than 8 lines (approx. 4 words per line) With photo and payment of $25 to: Daily Corinthian Attn: Classiﬁed P.O. Box 1800 Corinth, MS 38835-1800 or drop off at: 1607 S. Harper Rd. You may also email to: classad@dailycorinthian.com IN MEMORIAM 2016 WILL BE PUBLISHED ON WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25TH, 2017 DEADLINE IS WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 18, 2017 AT 5:00 P.M. For any questions or more info, call 662-287-6147

in the slayings of nine black parishioners at a South Carolina church will return to court to begin contemplating his punishment. With the 22-year-old representing himself, the process is sure to be unconventional. But even if Roof is sentenced to death, it’s highly unlikely he’d be executed anytime soon. While prosecutors plan to call up to 38 people related to the nine people killed and three who survived the June 2015 slaughter during Bible study at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, Roof said last week he plans on calling no witnesses and presenting no evidence.

Roof was found guilty last month on 33 federal charges, including hate crimes and obstruction of the practice of religion. A jury took less than three hours to return its verdict, and a judge dismissed the jury for a break over the holidays. Typically in what’s known as the sentencing phase, defense attorneys call relatives and other witnesses to testify about their client’s unsteady state of mind before and during the crimes. Given that background, the defense hopes, a jury might be more likely to spare the defendant’s life and opt against the death penalty. But Roof, who is acting as his own attorney, has said he plans to do no

WHAT GOD EXPECTS OF US We belong to God by right of creation. He made us in his own image and gave man priority over his animals and other things of creation. Man is not worthy of this. The Psalmist said, “What is man, that thou art mindful of him? And the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou has made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honor. Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet... (Psalms 8:4-6). We also belong to God by right of redemption, at such an awful cost! (I Corinthians 6: 19-20). In view of all of this, what does God have a right to expect of us? He has a right to expect that we open our ears to his instructions. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches” (Revelation 2:11). We are to also take heed what we hear. Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given” (Mark 4:24). Also, “Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have” (Luke 8:18). We need to hear with open hearts ready to receive the truths God presents. He puts them there for our good and for our God expects that we shall have honest hearts with which to receive his word. “But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience” (Luke 8:15). We should want to do God’s will because it is right. We should not be seeking to please men, nor to gain the favor of men, in our religious acts -- but to be pleasing to God. God expects whole hearted obedience. “But... ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness” (Romans 6:17, 18). We need to have the disposition, “Speak Lord thy servant heareth; command, and I will obey.” God’s word says it: we need to believe it, and that ought to settle it. We can rest assured that it is someone’s business what we do with our lives: It is God’s business! He holds us responsible for our actions (Romans 14:11, 12) And he will punish the evil doers (Romans 2:8, 9). God is glorified with fruit bearing (John 15:8). To bear fruit we must be in the vine, and abide in the vine (John 15: 1-6) This we do when we are good examples by reflecting the life of Jesus in our lives. Read your Bible - Romans 6 -Welcome

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such thing. In his journal, which was read in court during his trial, Roof said his doesn’t believe in psychology, which he called “a Jewish invention” that “does nothing but invent diseases and tell people they have problems when they don’t.” Roof also seems to be determined to try to keep evidence embarrassing to him or his family out. Not only did he take over his own defense, but he asked the judge at a hearing last week if he could file a motion limiting what prosecutors can introduce. Roof also was adamant that a transcript of a hearing where he was found mentally competent not be released to the public.

Obama entering the end of tenure BY JOSH LEDERMAN Associated Press

WASHINGTON — His last vacation behind him, President Barack Obama is entering the closing stretch of his presidency, an eleventh-hour push to tie up loose ends and put finishing touches on his legacy before handing the reins to President-elect Donald Trump. Obama returned to Washington midday Monday from Hawaii with less than three weeks left. His final days will largely be consumed by a bid to protect his endangered health care law, a major farewell speech and the ongoing handover of power to Trump. In an email to supporters on Monday, Obama said his valedictory speech on Jan. 10 follows a tradition set in 1796 when the first president, George Washington, spoke to the American people for the last time in oﬃce. The speech will take place at McCormick Place, a giant convention center in Obama’s hometown of Chicago.

Daily Corinthian • Tuesday, January 3, 2017 • 7

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