Twins return money to city board By Lonnie Ross Mississippi Tribune In a surprising move, identical twins Destinee and Desiree McGhee returned money given to the Mayor’s Youth Council from the city for their float in the Christmas Parade. Some published reports from area citizens indicated displeasure over the city’s decision to give the council that money.

During a recent board meeting, the sisters who are members of the Mayor’s Youth Council gave a powerpoint presentation to the board, highlighting the council’s activities in the year 2009. The McComb High School ninth graders also passed out handouts that highlighted all of the council’s activities since its inception back in 2008.

“Before we began, we want to personally thank you Mayor Patterson and the Board of Selectmen for the support you all have given us. If it had not been for the city of McComb we could not have been able to do the work that our community so desperately needs and grow as leaders” Destinee said while addressing the board.

“We realize that these are tough economic times and that money is scarce.”

She continued, “At this time Mayor Patterson, we would like to present you and the board with this cashiers check for $300 dollars. We consider the parade dollars that you and the board so graciously gave as a loan. We have worked diligently as a council and we want you and the board to know that we truly appreciate all of your efforts to support and fund us. We also would like to withdraw the request for funds from this year’s budget.”

The Youth Council has requested in a previous city board meeting funding for their awards ceremony from the city. However, that request was met with strong opposition. Responding to that Destinee added, “And by the way, we would like to withdraw the request for awards ceremony funding as well.”

The awards ceremony was held at the McComb Sports Park on January 11, 2010. The twins invited all of the city board members, giving them a special invitation. All of the McComb selectmen attended the ceremony.