Wednesday in The Star

Check out Wednesday's Anniston Star for these stories:

A proposed new law would put an additional hoop in front of 16 and 17-year-olds who want to drop out of school. State Rep. Thad McClammy, D-Montgomery, introduced a bill which would require parents permission before 16 and 17-year-olds can drop out. Jacksonville schools Superintendent Eric Mackey, who is legislative chair for the School Superintendents of Alabama, said he would recommend supporting the bill. Dan Whisenhunt looks at this story.

Dan also writes about JSU's plans to implement the school's first doctoral program, in emergency management.

There's money available in grants to restore historic downtown storefronts, but very few property owners have taken advantage of them. Megan Nichols writes about the grants, and talks to some property owners who have sought them out.

Some Oxford residents are pushing for the City Council to be elected by districts. The deadline for such a move is swiftly approaching. Will the council support it? Why or why not? Todd South examines this issue.