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Mississippi State and the city of Starkville this week celebrated receiving an authentic Olympic torch used in the 2024 Olympics in Paris. ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵPresident Mark E. Keenum, left, and Starkville Mayor Lynn Spruill, right, also were presented an Olympic medallion and plaque for their dedication to displaying the historic keepsake, a symbol of unity which ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵand Starkville share through their successful town-and-gown relationship. Additionally, four Olympians received the medallion: MSU’s Marco Arop; Isaiah Jewett who trains with Arop; and MSU’s Curtis Thompson and Ilana Izquierdo. After making a full state tour, the torch will be available for viewing in Starkville’s City Hall for one year, with dates announced at a later time. The event was made possible by Coca-Cola and local distributor Clark Beverage Company, a longtime university supporter.