May 30, 2025

Mississippi Valley State University (MSVU) celebrated its 75th Founder’s Day under the theme, “A Celebration of Service: A Legacy Unveiled.” A whole week of events, honoring the institution’s enduring legacy, commitment to service, and the pioneers who came before, was concluded at the J.H. White Foundation’s Annual Scholarship Gala on Friday, April 11.

Each year, the Ole Miss business school selects one business or entrepreneur to recognize as the Farrington Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year. The winners are nominated by the community and selected by the Dean of the School of Business Administration, Ken Cyree. This year, Doug was given this recognition.

Taylor Whatley is a second-generation new car dealer and managing partner at Mike Whatley Honda, located in Brookhaven, Mississippi. Taylor has spent a cumulative 20 years in the automotive industry. He grew up around the car business, often going to work with his father, Mike Whatley. Early in his career, Taylor made the decision to leave the retail automotive side of the industry and the family business. He spent five years working for the Acura Division of American Honda Motor Co. before returning to the family business.

In the town of Tupelo, Mississippi, there is a population of 37,000 but a daily workforce of 84,000 according to the Community Development Foundation (CDF). It is also the home of Dossett Big 4 and has been constant in the community for 45 years. Rudy “Big Rudy” Dossett, and his namesake, “Little Rudy,” have taken care of the community’s transportation needs the only way they know how: by building relationships, exceeding expectations and creating a positive experience where customers become friends, and friends return with repeat business.

Sen. Walter Michelle and Rep. Jill Ford went to Mercedes-Benz of Jackson to present the 2025 Mississippi TIME Dealer of the Year (TDOY), Trudy Moody, with a commending resolution adopted during this year’s legislative session.

The Mississippi Legislature officially adjourned for 2025 — but not with a flourish. Lawmakers left town without passing a state budget, setting the stage for a special session to be called by the Governor.