Bishop to stand trial next month - 2004-01-25
A Christian Orthodox bishop accused of groping a woman's breast at a northern Michigan casino declined an offer from prosecutors to plead guilty to a lesser charge.

At a court hearing Friday, Bishop Demetri Khoury of Toledo, Ohio, rejected an offer to plead guilty to attempted fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct and pay travel expenses for the alleged victim, who had to travel from another state to attend an earlier hearing.

Khoury, 55, is scheduled to stand trial on February 26th.
Read the full story at WJRT

Legislative session makes casino industry nervous - 2004-01-25
I ran into some casino executives at the recent Coast Chamber legislative reception in Jackson, and they were quick to state exactly what they want from the Legislature this session.

Nothing.

Of course, they want South Mississippi roads and other infrastructure improved and expanded and the rest of the usual things everybody else here wants. But as far as any major casino initiatives, they said, there aren't any. They realize the state budget is in a bind, et cetera, et cetera.
Read the full story at Biloxi Sun Herald