These are some of the stories you can find in Wednesday's Anniston Star:
Nick Cenegy has a follow-up on the 28 drug indictments we covered in yesterday's Star.
A project to turn a rail spur into a connection from McClellan to the Chief Ladiga Trail could be delayed. The rail line is jointly owned by the JPA and the city was to manage the bidding process for removal of the tracks. But now the JPA is not sure it is satisfied with the bids. Megan Nichols has this story.
One Randolph County Commission candidate is contesting results in this month's primary election. The difference was seven votes. Andy Johns has this story.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Ode to a copy editor
Monday's New York Times editorial page included a piece by Lawrence Downes, In a Changing World of News, an Elegy for Copy Editors.
Downes' ode to copy editors included this:
Reading those words early Monday morning, one name came to mind: Alan Cochrum, a copy editor at the Fort Worth (Texas) Star-Telegram, at least he will be until Friday. According to an e-mail he sent me this morning, Alan is a victim of recent cuts at the McClatchy Newspaper chain, which owns the Star-Telegram.
I worked with Alan several years at the Fort Worth newspaper. He was exacting about prose, searching out and destroying poorly written copy. The old joke about copy editors is that they tend to pose revelatory questions like, "Does anal retentive have a hyphen?" Yep, that's Alan.
But he often saved the newspaper from embarrassing mistakes. He once caught a guest columnist (who would later become a Bush administration political appointee - naturally) plagiarizing a little-known passage by C.S. Lewis. Commas, and their placement, were very important to Alan. He took the job of guarding over newspaper copy (read: stories) very seriously. He took it to a level that often frustrated the rest of us, even those who love the language and its proper usage. Still, it's a valuable service. One done with equal fervor by many hard-working journalists here at The Star.
The Times' Downes concluded Monday:
With the news of Alan's pending departure from the newspaper he worked at for 20 years, that passage has more poignancy Tuesday than it did Monday.
Downes' ode to copy editors included this:
As for what they do, here’s the short version: After news happens in the chaos and clutter of the real world, it travels through a reporter’s mind, a photographer’s eye, a notebook and camera lens, into computer files, then through multiple layers of editing. Copy editors handle the final transition to an ink-on-paper object. On the news-factory floor, they do the refining and packaging. They trim words, fix grammar, punctuation and style, write headlines and captions.
But they also do a lot more. Copy editors are the last set of eyes before yours. They are more powerful than proofreaders. They untangle twisted prose. They are surgeons, removing growths of error and irrelevance; they are minimalist chefs, straining fat. Their goal is to make sure that the day’s work of a newspaper staff becomes an object of lasting beauty and excellence once it hits the presses.
Reading those words early Monday morning, one name came to mind: Alan Cochrum, a copy editor at the Fort Worth (Texas) Star-Telegram, at least he will be until Friday. According to an e-mail he sent me this morning, Alan is a victim of recent cuts at the McClatchy Newspaper chain, which owns the Star-Telegram.
I worked with Alan several years at the Fort Worth newspaper. He was exacting about prose, searching out and destroying poorly written copy. The old joke about copy editors is that they tend to pose revelatory questions like, "Does anal retentive have a hyphen?" Yep, that's Alan.
But he often saved the newspaper from embarrassing mistakes. He once caught a guest columnist (who would later become a Bush administration political appointee - naturally) plagiarizing a little-known passage by C.S. Lewis. Commas, and their placement, were very important to Alan. He took the job of guarding over newspaper copy (read: stories) very seriously. He took it to a level that often frustrated the rest of us, even those who love the language and its proper usage. Still, it's a valuable service. One done with equal fervor by many hard-working journalists here at The Star.
The Times' Downes concluded Monday:
As newspapers lose money and readers, they have been shedding great swaths of expensive expertise. They have been forced to shrink or eliminate the multiply redundant levels of editing that distinguish their kind of journalism from what you find on TV, radio and much of the Web. Copy editors are being bought out or forced out; they are dying and not being replaced.
With the news of Alan's pending departure from the newspaper he worked at for 20 years, that passage has more poignancy Tuesday than it did Monday.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Tuesday in The Star
You can find these stories in Tuesday's Anniston Star:
Federal prosecutors and Calhoun County law enforcement agencies announced this morning that a four-year undercover investigation netted 26 people for alleged involvement in an Anniston and Oxford area drug ring. Two more have been charged but are still at large.
Megan Nichols checks in with City Manager George Monk. He told her last week that he was planning to make a decision concerning whether he will stay in his position, accepting a six month contract extension, or will leave at the end of June.
Andy Johns checks in with the Jacksonville trees. Will Alabama Power appeal a judge's ruling that said they couldn't cut them down?
Federal prosecutors and Calhoun County law enforcement agencies announced this morning that a four-year undercover investigation netted 26 people for alleged involvement in an Anniston and Oxford area drug ring. Two more have been charged but are still at large.
Megan Nichols checks in with City Manager George Monk. He told her last week that he was planning to make a decision concerning whether he will stay in his position, accepting a six month contract extension, or will leave at the end of June.
Andy Johns checks in with the Jacksonville trees. Will Alabama Power appeal a judge's ruling that said they couldn't cut them down?
Friday, June 13, 2008
This weekend in The Star
Check out this weekend's Star for these stories:
On Saturday:
Megan Nichols takes a look at flag day and also explains proper flag display and handling.
Megan also has a story about the Anniston City Council's discretionary funds. What are they used for and what's the philosophy behind them?
Anniston used to have a curfew. Reviving some form of a curfew has come up as an idea at recent Stop the Violence meetings. Nick Cenegy takes a look at the history of curfews in Anniston.
On Sunday:
Todd South's final story for The Anniston Star is an analysis of declared candidates, issues and recent history in Oxford's upcoming municipal election.
We'll have coverage of Juneteenth as well as Music at McClellan's finale and a father-son lookalike contest at Quintard Mall.
On Saturday:
Megan Nichols takes a look at flag day and also explains proper flag display and handling.
Megan also has a story about the Anniston City Council's discretionary funds. What are they used for and what's the philosophy behind them?
Anniston used to have a curfew. Reviving some form of a curfew has come up as an idea at recent Stop the Violence meetings. Nick Cenegy takes a look at the history of curfews in Anniston.
On Sunday:
Todd South's final story for The Anniston Star is an analysis of declared candidates, issues and recent history in Oxford's upcoming municipal election.
We'll have coverage of Juneteenth as well as Music at McClellan's finale and a father-son lookalike contest at Quintard Mall.
Reporter Todd South rides into the sunset
Instead of a cake, a card and the usual going-away trappings, Anniston Star reporter Todd South had another idea. He asked the newsroom if we could help him fulfill his dream of getting together for a game of flag football before he left for his new job in Chattanooga. So we found ourselves sweating and tossing the old pigskin Thursday evening at the football field at McClellan.
We learned many things. 1. A 43-year-old (me) has no business wrestling around with these 20-something reporters. Ouch! I'm sore. 2. As is his natural ability, Todd has the knack for getting people together. 3. Todd thinks differently; who else wants a football game for a going-away party?
What we already knew: Todd is a top-notch person, a fine reporter with a bright future and a heck of an athlete. I will miss him. This newspaper will miss him. I wish him well and encourage him to keep in touch.
We learned many things. 1. A 43-year-old (me) has no business wrestling around with these 20-something reporters. Ouch! I'm sore. 2. As is his natural ability, Todd has the knack for getting people together. 3. Todd thinks differently; who else wants a football game for a going-away party?
What we already knew: Todd is a top-notch person, a fine reporter with a bright future and a heck of an athlete. I will miss him. This newspaper will miss him. I wish him well and encourage him to keep in touch.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Thursday in The Star
Check out Thursday's Star for these stories:
The tomato salmonella scare is affecting local restaurants and grocers, some of whom are not getting shipments of tomatoes from their suppliers. Others who rely on locally or regionally grown produce say their shelves still are full. Hannah Dame has this story.
Alex Scarborough-Anderson has a profile of the Opportunity Center program that refurbishes donated, used medical equipment.
Rep. Mike Rogers has inserted language into the defense authorization bill, still to be passed by the Senate, that would require military working dogs to be bred in the U.S. Are there potential contracts in this for Auburn's Canine Detection Training Center at McClellan?
The Disabled American Veterans Chapter of Piedmont is trying to raise money to fix/replace a defaced memorial to fallen soldiers at the veterans' park. Andy Johns has this story.
The tomato salmonella scare is affecting local restaurants and grocers, some of whom are not getting shipments of tomatoes from their suppliers. Others who rely on locally or regionally grown produce say their shelves still are full. Hannah Dame has this story.
Alex Scarborough-Anderson has a profile of the Opportunity Center program that refurbishes donated, used medical equipment.
Rep. Mike Rogers has inserted language into the defense authorization bill, still to be passed by the Senate, that would require military working dogs to be bred in the U.S. Are there potential contracts in this for Auburn's Canine Detection Training Center at McClellan?
The Disabled American Veterans Chapter of Piedmont is trying to raise money to fix/replace a defaced memorial to fallen soldiers at the veterans' park. Andy Johns has this story.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Wednesday in The Star
Coming Wednesday in The Anniston Star:
Nick Cenegy takes a look at the cost of the circuit court race between Ray Bryan and Mannon Bankson. One expert on political finance says Calhoun County bucked a trend of even more expensive, increasingly negative judicial races.
As students buckle down to catch up over the summer, some of them will also be plugging in and logging on at Jacksonville High. The school is using a new online summer school curriculum to share resources with other schools, making it cheaper to offer classes during the summer. Alex Scarborough-Anderson has this story.
The Anniston City Council meetes. We'll see if there's any news regarding the city manager contract. George Monk has said he hasn't decided whether he will accept a six-month extension.
Nick Cenegy takes a look at the cost of the circuit court race between Ray Bryan and Mannon Bankson. One expert on political finance says Calhoun County bucked a trend of even more expensive, increasingly negative judicial races.
As students buckle down to catch up over the summer, some of them will also be plugging in and logging on at Jacksonville High. The school is using a new online summer school curriculum to share resources with other schools, making it cheaper to offer classes during the summer. Alex Scarborough-Anderson has this story.
The Anniston City Council meetes. We'll see if there's any news regarding the city manager contract. George Monk has said he hasn't decided whether he will accept a six-month extension.
Monday, June 09, 2008
Tuesday in The Star
You can find these stories in The Anniston Star on Tuesday:
Controlled burns are underway at Talladega National Forest. That's why you've been seeing smoke. Andy Johns has this story.
Roanoke is expected to gain an interim mayor at tonight's council meeting. Andy will report from there as well.
Attorney General Troy King has asked the state supreme court to set an execution date for James Callahan, who was convicted of murdering JSU student Rebecca Howell.
Controlled burns are underway at Talladega National Forest. That's why you've been seeing smoke. Andy Johns has this story.
Roanoke is expected to gain an interim mayor at tonight's council meeting. Andy will report from there as well.
Attorney General Troy King has asked the state supreme court to set an execution date for James Callahan, who was convicted of murdering JSU student Rebecca Howell.
Thursday, June 05, 2008
Friday in The Star
You can find these stories in Friday's Star:
Veterans of the Depression-era Civilian Conservation Corps will gather at Cheaha Saturday for a reunion. Andy Johns examines the group's legacy, talks with a CCC veteran from Lineville, and highlights what local projects they worked on.
The Lineville-based group Servants in Faith and Technology are hosting students from around the world this week. Hannah Dame visited with them to find out what students are learning.
The Foothills Community Partnership, approaching the end of its cleanup of lead contamination in the area, is giving a big gift to the Community Foundation of Calhoun County. Megan Nichols has this story.
Veterans of the Depression-era Civilian Conservation Corps will gather at Cheaha Saturday for a reunion. Andy Johns examines the group's legacy, talks with a CCC veteran from Lineville, and highlights what local projects they worked on.
The Lineville-based group Servants in Faith and Technology are hosting students from around the world this week. Hannah Dame visited with them to find out what students are learning.
The Foothills Community Partnership, approaching the end of its cleanup of lead contamination in the area, is giving a big gift to the Community Foundation of Calhoun County. Megan Nichols has this story.
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Thursday in The Star
Check out Thursday's Anniston Star for these stories:
Todd South checks in with the chemical weapons incinerator in Anniston. That last VX-filled projectiles were recently destroyed - as the incinerator clears another milestone we'll take a look at any discussion on what will happen when all the weapons are gone.
The city's nuisance abatement program for homes has been around for awhile. Now it's being expanded to take in junk cars on private property that violate city code. Megan Nichols has this story.
Residents say long-term problems with Lake Louise caused by construction of the nearby Eastern Parkway had led the contractor to drain the lake in an effort to clear out sediment.
Todd South checks in with the chemical weapons incinerator in Anniston. That last VX-filled projectiles were recently destroyed - as the incinerator clears another milestone we'll take a look at any discussion on what will happen when all the weapons are gone.
The city's nuisance abatement program for homes has been around for awhile. Now it's being expanded to take in junk cars on private property that violate city code. Megan Nichols has this story.
Residents say long-term problems with Lake Louise caused by construction of the nearby Eastern Parkway had led the contractor to drain the lake in an effort to clear out sediment.
Friday, May 30, 2008
This weekend in The Star
On Saturday:
Some Anniston buildings have been named to the Alabama Historical Commission's "Places in Peril" list for 2008 . The "Gateway to Anniston" includes the old Anniston Land Co. building. Hannah Dame has this story.
Christina Smith takes a look at the race for the Cleburne County Revenue Commissioner. The primary is Tuesday.
Christina also checks in with plans for the Heflin industrial park.
On Sunday:
More than 7,000 inmates return to communities from Alabama state prisons each year, according to the Alabama Department of Corrections. Many of them suffer from drug and alcohol addictions. Once out of the corrections community, former inmates must find their own way through a myriad of options for treatment. Todd South has a story looking at what were once known as "halfway houses" - support and transitional centers.
Nick Cenegy will tell you about the candidates for family court judge: Incumbent Mannon Bankson and challenger Ray Bryan.
We'll also have coverage of the Fun Day at Constantine Park, Music at McClellan and Hobson City's end-of-the-school year party for young people.
On Monday:
Andy Johns will have a very informative story about the things people can do if they are attacked, as well as how to prevent attacks and burglary.
Andy also checks in with the pine beetles. Infestation numbers are expected to continue to decline from last year's epidemic levels.
Some Anniston buildings have been named to the Alabama Historical Commission's "Places in Peril" list for 2008 . The "Gateway to Anniston" includes the old Anniston Land Co. building. Hannah Dame has this story.
Christina Smith takes a look at the race for the Cleburne County Revenue Commissioner. The primary is Tuesday.
Christina also checks in with plans for the Heflin industrial park.
On Sunday:
More than 7,000 inmates return to communities from Alabama state prisons each year, according to the Alabama Department of Corrections. Many of them suffer from drug and alcohol addictions. Once out of the corrections community, former inmates must find their own way through a myriad of options for treatment. Todd South has a story looking at what were once known as "halfway houses" - support and transitional centers.
Nick Cenegy will tell you about the candidates for family court judge: Incumbent Mannon Bankson and challenger Ray Bryan.
We'll also have coverage of the Fun Day at Constantine Park, Music at McClellan and Hobson City's end-of-the-school year party for young people.
On Monday:
Andy Johns will have a very informative story about the things people can do if they are attacked, as well as how to prevent attacks and burglary.
Andy also checks in with the pine beetles. Infestation numbers are expected to continue to decline from last year's epidemic levels.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Thursday in The Star
These stories are coming in Thursday's Anniston Star:
Megan Nichols follows up on the Anniston City Council's decision to offer City Manager George Monk a six month contract extension.
Dan Whisenhunt surveys local legislators about the pay for the special session. Most say they will accept the payment, but one says no.
Norwood Hodges and Carver community centers are undergoing renovations. What's in store for the community centers? Hannah Dame will let you know.
A new pediatric center in Anniston is finished. It was financed with funds from the Monsanto lawsuit and will serve children in the area affected by environmental pollution. Todd South has this story.
Megan Nichols follows up on the Anniston City Council's decision to offer City Manager George Monk a six month contract extension.
Dan Whisenhunt surveys local legislators about the pay for the special session. Most say they will accept the payment, but one says no.
Norwood Hodges and Carver community centers are undergoing renovations. What's in store for the community centers? Hannah Dame will let you know.
A new pediatric center in Anniston is finished. It was financed with funds from the Monsanto lawsuit and will serve children in the area affected by environmental pollution. Todd South has this story.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Wednesday in The Star
Check out Wednesday's Anniston Star for these stories:
High gas prices are hurting school systems - many are overbudget on fuel as the price of diesel to run school buses is climing just as fast as regular gas. And with the uncertainties over next year's budget, no one knows how much money there will be to buy fuel next year, let along how much it will cost.
Dan Whisenhunt checks in with our local delegation as the Legistlature's special session gets underway.
The Anniston City Council meets. Hearing public comments about plans to pull back coverage from police jurisdictions is on the agenda. Megan Nichols will cover this and will also see if there's more discussion of City Manager George Monk's contract.
Citizens for Better Schools holds a meeting in Anniston tonight. Nick Cenegy will be there and will let you know what was discussed.
Markeshia Ricks has a run-down of the Republican candidates for the Court of Criminal Appeals.
Oxford and Jacksonville city councils meet and the Anniston Board of Education meets as well.
High gas prices are hurting school systems - many are overbudget on fuel as the price of diesel to run school buses is climing just as fast as regular gas. And with the uncertainties over next year's budget, no one knows how much money there will be to buy fuel next year, let along how much it will cost.
Dan Whisenhunt checks in with our local delegation as the Legistlature's special session gets underway.
The Anniston City Council meets. Hearing public comments about plans to pull back coverage from police jurisdictions is on the agenda. Megan Nichols will cover this and will also see if there's more discussion of City Manager George Monk's contract.
Citizens for Better Schools holds a meeting in Anniston tonight. Nick Cenegy will be there and will let you know what was discussed.
Markeshia Ricks has a run-down of the Republican candidates for the Court of Criminal Appeals.
Oxford and Jacksonville city councils meet and the Anniston Board of Education meets as well.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Thursday in The Star
You can find these stories in Thursday's Anniston Star:
George Monk’s term as Anniston city manager will end in June, after the City Council was unable to commit to a one-year extension of his contract. Monk today told the council Wednesday he would leave the post when his contract ends June 30. Megan Nichols has this story.
Megan also has an update on the search for a JPA chief executive. One candidate has withdrawn his name from consideration for the position at McClellan’s Joint Powers Authority. James West Jr., of Augusta, Ga., e-mailed Anniston Mayor and JPA Vice-Chairman Chip Howell on Wednesday to inform him of his decision.
The Anniston Water Works & Sewer Board earlier this month settled a lawsuit it filed in the summer of 2006 against Oxford Water Works. Megan will also have this story.
Markeshia Ricks takes a look at the District 3 congressional race, Congressman Mike Rogers os the Republican incumbent. Who is challenging him and what's the political scene look like in the upcoming race?
Andy Johns has an advance on Memorial Day. Troopers will be out in force patrolling the roadways, but it's also likely that high gas prices will keep a lot of travelers home this weekend.
George Monk’s term as Anniston city manager will end in June, after the City Council was unable to commit to a one-year extension of his contract. Monk today told the council Wednesday he would leave the post when his contract ends June 30. Megan Nichols has this story.
Megan also has an update on the search for a JPA chief executive. One candidate has withdrawn his name from consideration for the position at McClellan’s Joint Powers Authority. James West Jr., of Augusta, Ga., e-mailed Anniston Mayor and JPA Vice-Chairman Chip Howell on Wednesday to inform him of his decision.
The Anniston Water Works & Sewer Board earlier this month settled a lawsuit it filed in the summer of 2006 against Oxford Water Works. Megan will also have this story.
Markeshia Ricks takes a look at the District 3 congressional race, Congressman Mike Rogers os the Republican incumbent. Who is challenging him and what's the political scene look like in the upcoming race?
Andy Johns has an advance on Memorial Day. Troopers will be out in force patrolling the roadways, but it's also likely that high gas prices will keep a lot of travelers home this weekend.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Wednesday in The Star
Check out Wednesday's Anniston Star for these stories:
Those involved with the Stop the Violence group have identified one concern they think could help keep kids on the right side of the law - addressing truancy. Nick Cenegy and Dan Whisenhunt take a look at this issue.
Megan Nichols will let you know how Monday's round of interviews for JPA CEO went.
There's no education budget as the school year draws to a close. What do local schools say that means for their systems? How about colleges and universities? Dan will have this story.
Memorial Day weekend is coming up and tourists on the Tallapoosa River have a new option of fun - tubing down the river. Christina Smith reports on this business.
Those involved with the Stop the Violence group have identified one concern they think could help keep kids on the right side of the law - addressing truancy. Nick Cenegy and Dan Whisenhunt take a look at this issue.
Megan Nichols will let you know how Monday's round of interviews for JPA CEO went.
There's no education budget as the school year draws to a close. What do local schools say that means for their systems? How about colleges and universities? Dan will have this story.
Memorial Day weekend is coming up and tourists on the Tallapoosa River have a new option of fun - tubing down the river. Christina Smith reports on this business.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Answers to my questions
Ask, and you shall receive.
On Friday, I wrote about a small, obscure civilian cemetery up at McClellan that I enjoy snooping around in. It's a beautiful place. It's adjacent to the larger military cemetery. In the course of my column, I identified a few graves by name and wondered if they were related, and asked the question, why were they buried here?
You can read my Friday column here.
An answer to my questions has arrived from a member of one of the families represented at the cemetery. Below is the response I received.
On Friday, I wrote about a small, obscure civilian cemetery up at McClellan that I enjoy snooping around in. It's a beautiful place. It's adjacent to the larger military cemetery. In the course of my column, I identified a few graves by name and wondered if they were related, and asked the question, why were they buried here?
You can read my Friday column here.
An answer to my questions has arrived from a member of one of the families represented at the cemetery. Below is the response I received.
To answer your questions about the Reaves buried adjacent to the military cemetery at McClellan:Cool, huh? Now we know.
The older portion is New Hope Primitive Baptist Church cemetery. The church was removed shortly after 1912 when the federal government bought the land.
David Reaves, Emory Reaves and William McGuire Reaves were all brothers and were the sons of William Reaves and Narcissa Chandler Reaves. William and Narcissa had 7 sons who served in the Confederate army. The previous three mentioned are buried on McClellan; another, John Harrison Reaves, is buried at Four Mile cemetery; James W. Reaves relocated to Texas; Carter Hill Reaves, who donated land and lumber for the construction of "Reaves School" in NW Jacksonville and which was eventually replaced by Roy Webb School.
Carter Hill is buried in the Green Cemetery on Merrellton Road in J'Ville but the marker is missing and the last son, Rev. Ira Jackson Reaves, is buried in Macedonia Baptist Church, in Cleburne County.
The Reaves family came from Georgia and settled on farm land that is now known as McClellan. Each had separate acreage. William's farm was located only 1/2 mile from the New Hope Primitive Church and cemetery. There are two rows of Reaves in the cemetery, a Chandler family row, the Reidenger family row and the Bonds family row. The Reaves, Chandlers, Reidengers and Bonds are all related by marriage.
This is probably more than you wanted to know but there has been extensive Reaves family research done by W. Patrick Reaves of Munford. His published book is entitled THE RYVES-RIVES-REAVES FAMILIES OF EUROPE AND AMERICA.
Friday, May 16, 2008
This weekend in The Star
Coming this weekend in The Anniston Star:
For Saturday:
Andy Johns has a story about beekeeping. What's going on in beekeeping today?
Andy also rounds up the rainfall totals from Thursday.
Dan Whisenhunt has a follow up to the lawsuit filed by Citizens for Better Schools, who are they, where are they based and why are they getting involved in Calhoun County issues?
Dan will also have a story about a celebration of arts by the county's gifted enrichment program.
On Sunday:
Capitol Correspondent Markeshia Ricks recently talked with former Governor Don Siegelman. What did he have to say?
Nick Cenegy takes a look at Calhoun County 911 - now in operation for 20 years, the office recently took its 1 millionith call.
Andy Johns will cover the fun day at Glen Addie and a remote control aircraft festival in Lineville.
George Smith will have an appreciation of country music legend Eddie Arnold, who recently passed away.
And on Monday:
Nick and Dan write about truancy. Those involved with the Stop the Violence group have identified one concern they think could help keep kids on the right side of the law: addressing truancy. But the law can be tricky for schools and cops to enforce. Part of our ongoing series on the roots of crime.
We'll also have a story about the Big Alabama Scenic Trail event at the stateline this weekend.
For Saturday:
Andy Johns has a story about beekeeping. What's going on in beekeeping today?
Andy also rounds up the rainfall totals from Thursday.
Dan Whisenhunt has a follow up to the lawsuit filed by Citizens for Better Schools, who are they, where are they based and why are they getting involved in Calhoun County issues?
Dan will also have a story about a celebration of arts by the county's gifted enrichment program.
On Sunday:
Capitol Correspondent Markeshia Ricks recently talked with former Governor Don Siegelman. What did he have to say?
Nick Cenegy takes a look at Calhoun County 911 - now in operation for 20 years, the office recently took its 1 millionith call.
Andy Johns will cover the fun day at Glen Addie and a remote control aircraft festival in Lineville.
George Smith will have an appreciation of country music legend Eddie Arnold, who recently passed away.
And on Monday:
Nick and Dan write about truancy. Those involved with the Stop the Violence group have identified one concern they think could help keep kids on the right side of the law: addressing truancy. But the law can be tricky for schools and cops to enforce. Part of our ongoing series on the roots of crime.
We'll also have a story about the Big Alabama Scenic Trail event at the stateline this weekend.
Green Insight
A quick preview of Sunday's Insight section -- we're going green in Calhoun County, thanks to the reporting of Cassandra Mickens, a Knight Community Journalism Fellow at The Star.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Friday in The Star
Coming Friday in The Star:
The region got a bunch of rain Thursday, but we're still in an extreme drought. Andy Johns will have this story.
Dan Whisenhunt reports on Wellborn Elementary's outdoor classroom which was dedicated Thusday.
A ceremony in Washington, D.C., honored fallen police officers, including Oxford Police Lt. Dexter Holcomb who was killed last year when he was struck by a school bus. Andy will have this story and advance a ceremony happening in Oxford Friday.
The region got a bunch of rain Thursday, but we're still in an extreme drought. Andy Johns will have this story.
Dan Whisenhunt reports on Wellborn Elementary's outdoor classroom which was dedicated Thusday.
A ceremony in Washington, D.C., honored fallen police officers, including Oxford Police Lt. Dexter Holcomb who was killed last year when he was struck by a school bus. Andy will have this story and advance a ceremony happening in Oxford Friday.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
This Thursday in The Star
Check out Thursday's Star for these stories:
Todd South has a story on the reaction at Jacksonville State University of the news that former LSU quarterback Ryan Perrilloux has signed a letter to transfer to JSU.
Residents and city leaders will meet to discuss the recent string of rapes and robberies that have police looking for a single perpetrator. Nick Cenegy will be at the meeting and will let you know what was discussed.
Knight Fellow Christina Smith has a follow-up on those cleaning up after the tornado in Heflin. She talked with the owners of a family-run daycare center that was demolished, leaving six families scrambling for childcare. Andy Johns will also have an update on what weather we can expect in the next few days - there might be more storms on the way.
Todd South has a story on the reaction at Jacksonville State University of the news that former LSU quarterback Ryan Perrilloux has signed a letter to transfer to JSU.
Residents and city leaders will meet to discuss the recent string of rapes and robberies that have police looking for a single perpetrator. Nick Cenegy will be at the meeting and will let you know what was discussed.
Knight Fellow Christina Smith has a follow-up on those cleaning up after the tornado in Heflin. She talked with the owners of a family-run daycare center that was demolished, leaving six families scrambling for childcare. Andy Johns will also have an update on what weather we can expect in the next few days - there might be more storms on the way.
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
Thursday in The Star
Check out Thursday's Star for these stories:
Markeshia Ricks has a story about a public hearing at the state Department of Agriculture on opening up tourism relations with Cuba. What was discussed?
Rising gas prices and overtime costs are hurting the Calhoun County Sheriff's Department's budget, which has already busted projections. The possibility of having to pick up patrols in Saks, Wellborn and other areas outside the Anniston city limits, has the County Commission them starting to wonder where the money is going to come from. Megan Nichols looks at this issue.
Calhoun County is home to the country's champion Southern magnolia. Andy Johns will tell you all about the big tree.
Markeshia Ricks has a story about a public hearing at the state Department of Agriculture on opening up tourism relations with Cuba. What was discussed?
Rising gas prices and overtime costs are hurting the Calhoun County Sheriff's Department's budget, which has already busted projections. The possibility of having to pick up patrols in Saks, Wellborn and other areas outside the Anniston city limits, has the County Commission them starting to wonder where the money is going to come from. Megan Nichols looks at this issue.
Calhoun County is home to the country's champion Southern magnolia. Andy Johns will tell you all about the big tree.
Monday, May 05, 2008
Tuesday in The Star
Check out Tuesday's Anniston Star for these stories:
Picking up litter in Calhoun County is a seven-day-a-week task, one that officials say could be made much easier with residents’ help. Megan Nichols has this story.
Dan Whisenhunt has a story about a possible JSU transit system. If planning stays on track, students at Jacksonville State University could be served by a campus bus system by fall 2009, JSU officials say.
Landlords could have a little more flexibility in dealing with tenants and appealing eviction judgments if a bill clears the House.The legislation clarifies some of the requirements for landlords in the state’s Uniform Residential Landlord-Tenant Act that was passed in 2006. Markeshia Ricks takes a look at what the law would do.
Picking up litter in Calhoun County is a seven-day-a-week task, one that officials say could be made much easier with residents’ help. Megan Nichols has this story.
Dan Whisenhunt has a story about a possible JSU transit system. If planning stays on track, students at Jacksonville State University could be served by a campus bus system by fall 2009, JSU officials say.
Landlords could have a little more flexibility in dealing with tenants and appealing eviction judgments if a bill clears the House.The legislation clarifies some of the requirements for landlords in the state’s Uniform Residential Landlord-Tenant Act that was passed in 2006. Markeshia Ricks takes a look at what the law would do.
Friday, May 02, 2008
This weekend in The Star
Check out this weekend's Anniston Star for these stories:
We'll have full coverage of the Noble Street Festival, Sunny King Criterium and Cheah Challenge bike races.
On Saturday:
Megan Nichols has a story about the three candidates for the CEO position at the JPA.
The Jacksonville trees are heading back to court. Andy Johns has this story.
Andy will also check in with the weather experts to see what is in store for Saturday's weather.
On Sunday:
For the second year, the State Senate has been plagued by fighting that has effectively rendered it incapicitated. Markeshia Ricks looks at the possible ramifications of the slatemate.
Andy Johns checks in with George Howard Racing, who want to build a complex in Lincoln.
We'll have full coverage of the Noble Street Festival, Sunny King Criterium and Cheah Challenge bike races.
On Saturday:
Megan Nichols has a story about the three candidates for the CEO position at the JPA.
The Jacksonville trees are heading back to court. Andy Johns has this story.
Andy will also check in with the weather experts to see what is in store for Saturday's weather.
On Sunday:
For the second year, the State Senate has been plagued by fighting that has effectively rendered it incapicitated. Markeshia Ricks looks at the possible ramifications of the slatemate.
Andy Johns checks in with George Howard Racing, who want to build a complex in Lincoln.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Tuesday in The Star
Check out Tuesday's Anniston Star for these stories:
The Stop the Violence group holds another public meeting. They will hear back from committees looking into various aspects of the problem. Nick Cenegy will have a story on the meeting. What was discussed?
The Oxford City Council and planning board are meeting with the Cider Ridge developer to talk about changes to the property.
JSU President Bill Meehan begins his visit/interview with Valdosta State University. Dan Whisenhunt will report from Georgia on what is planned during the visit. Meehan is one of the finalists for the president's position at Valdosta.
The Stop the Violence group holds another public meeting. They will hear back from committees looking into various aspects of the problem. Nick Cenegy will have a story on the meeting. What was discussed?
The Oxford City Council and planning board are meeting with the Cider Ridge developer to talk about changes to the property.
JSU President Bill Meehan begins his visit/interview with Valdosta State University. Dan Whisenhunt will report from Georgia on what is planned during the visit. Meehan is one of the finalists for the president's position at Valdosta.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Thursday in The Star
Check out these stories in The Anniston Star:
The Anniston City Council brought up the idea of ceasing patrols in the police jurisdiction, the three-mile zone beyond the city limits. Nick Cenegy takes a look at this idea - how much work would this relieve the Anniston Police Department of and how would this affect the sheriff's office?
Anniston has "naming of a superintendent" as an action item on its agenda for tomorrow night. Dan Whisenhunt will have this story.
Gas prices are at an all-time high. How will this affect crowds at the race in Talladega, which normally draws legions of RV-driving long distance fans? Megan Nichols will look at this.
Matt Kasper looks at the impact of thistle. One Ohatchee resident is complaining about thistles growing along rights-of-way that is spreading into his pasture land. Is this a widespread problem of an invasive species threatening local farms. Is it an annoyance that the county road department needs to deal with?
The Anniston City Council brought up the idea of ceasing patrols in the police jurisdiction, the three-mile zone beyond the city limits. Nick Cenegy takes a look at this idea - how much work would this relieve the Anniston Police Department of and how would this affect the sheriff's office?
Anniston has "naming of a superintendent" as an action item on its agenda for tomorrow night. Dan Whisenhunt will have this story.
Gas prices are at an all-time high. How will this affect crowds at the race in Talladega, which normally draws legions of RV-driving long distance fans? Megan Nichols will look at this.
Matt Kasper looks at the impact of thistle. One Ohatchee resident is complaining about thistles growing along rights-of-way that is spreading into his pasture land. Is this a widespread problem of an invasive species threatening local farms. Is it an annoyance that the county road department needs to deal with?
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Wednesday in The Star
Coming Wednesday in The Anniston Star:
Some local school systems will increase prices in its school lunch program, joining many other systems statewide. Dan Whisenhunt looks at the increases and why they are going up.
Oxford Elementary school students celebrated Earth Day with the National Guard at Mclellan. Todd South has this story.
Matt Kasper looks at Jacksonville's drive to be branded an "Alabama Community of Excellence." Folks working on the effort have finished their strategic plan for the city and will unveil it Wednesday. What do they propose for Jacksonville's future?
Education appropriations were the order of the day in the state Legislature. Markeshia Ricks looks at what was discussed and what this could mean for our local schools.
Some local school systems will increase prices in its school lunch program, joining many other systems statewide. Dan Whisenhunt looks at the increases and why they are going up.
Oxford Elementary school students celebrated Earth Day with the National Guard at Mclellan. Todd South has this story.
Matt Kasper looks at Jacksonville's drive to be branded an "Alabama Community of Excellence." Folks working on the effort have finished their strategic plan for the city and will unveil it Wednesday. What do they propose for Jacksonville's future?
Education appropriations were the order of the day in the state Legislature. Markeshia Ricks looks at what was discussed and what this could mean for our local schools.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Tuesday in The Star
Check out these stories in The Anniston Star on Tuesday:
JSU held a teacher of the year/teacher hall of fame ceremony. Who was honored? Dan Whisenhunt will have this story.
The Anniston City Council held an open forum on violence issues Monday night. Megan Nichols will cover the meeting and let you know who was there and what was said.
Markeshia Ricks has a story about the gridlock in the state Senate. Any chance of any bills being passed before the end of the legislative session?
Matt Kasper will have an update on a planned assisted living center in Jacksonville.
JSU held a teacher of the year/teacher hall of fame ceremony. Who was honored? Dan Whisenhunt will have this story.
The Anniston City Council held an open forum on violence issues Monday night. Megan Nichols will cover the meeting and let you know who was there and what was said.
Markeshia Ricks has a story about the gridlock in the state Senate. Any chance of any bills being passed before the end of the legislative session?
Matt Kasper will have an update on a planned assisted living center in Jacksonville.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Writer looking for sources
Emily Amick, a journalism fellow at The Star, is looking to talk to people about issues related to pregnancy. She is looking to talk to you if you are, or have been: a teen mom struggling to find resources, a woman considering her options regarding an unwanted pregnancy or unable to access adequate prenatal care. If you are interested in talking to her about these or any related issue please contact her at Ejamick@ua.edu
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Friday in The Anniston Star
Check out Friday's Star for these stories:
JSU President Bill Meehan is a semi-finalist for the top job at Valdosta State University. Dan Whisenhunt will have this story.
Andy Johns writes about Former Gov. John Patterson's talk at the library in Ashland.
Dan will also have a story about students from a Samford University sociology and the environment class who toured Anniston on Thursday to learn about how PCBs contamination has affected people's lives.
A Cleburne County sherriff's deputy who was shot in a traffic stop in 2002 was honored by the Legistlature today. Markeshia Ricks has this story.
Nick Cenegy will have a follow-up on Wednesday's shooting which left one woman dead.
JSU President Bill Meehan is a semi-finalist for the top job at Valdosta State University. Dan Whisenhunt will have this story.
Andy Johns writes about Former Gov. John Patterson's talk at the library in Ashland.
Dan will also have a story about students from a Samford University sociology and the environment class who toured Anniston on Thursday to learn about how PCBs contamination has affected people's lives.
A Cleburne County sherriff's deputy who was shot in a traffic stop in 2002 was honored by the Legistlature today. Markeshia Ricks has this story.
Nick Cenegy will have a follow-up on Wednesday's shooting which left one woman dead.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Thursday in The Star
Check out Thursday's Star for these stories:
Nick Cenegy has a profile of some of those involved in the group leading the stand against violent crime in Anniston.
Andy Johns visited the Wildland Fire Academy being held at McClellan. What was the scene there?
The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld the use of lethal injection for executions. This clears the way for executions to resume in Alabama. Markeshia Ricks will look at how the ruling will affect death row in the state.
Markeshia also takes a look at a bill that would place limits on ownership of non-lethal weapons such as tasers.
The Northeast Alabama Entrepreneurial Center celebrated its 10 year anniversary and announced the winners of the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce's Small Business Awards Luncheon. Megan Nichols has this story.
Nick Cenegy has a profile of some of those involved in the group leading the stand against violent crime in Anniston.
Andy Johns visited the Wildland Fire Academy being held at McClellan. What was the scene there?
The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld the use of lethal injection for executions. This clears the way for executions to resume in Alabama. Markeshia Ricks will look at how the ruling will affect death row in the state.
Markeshia also takes a look at a bill that would place limits on ownership of non-lethal weapons such as tasers.
The Northeast Alabama Entrepreneurial Center celebrated its 10 year anniversary and announced the winners of the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce's Small Business Awards Luncheon. Megan Nichols has this story.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Wednesday in The Star
Check out The Anniston Star for these stories on Wednesday:
Former governor John Patterson will speak at the Clay County Courthouse Thursday. Patterson, 86, who was governor from 1958 to 1963, will also sign copies of his biography “Nobody But the People” alongside the author, Warren Trest. Andy Johns will tell you about Patterson and advance his appearance in Ashland.
Rep. Randy Wood (R-Anniston) has filed a bill, which has cleared committee, that allows sheriffs and district attorneys to be present at executions. Current law excludes them. Markeshia Ricks has this story.
The JPA meets tonight. What did they discuss?
Matt Kasper will have an advance on the Mountain Longleaf Festival this weekend.
Former governor John Patterson will speak at the Clay County Courthouse Thursday. Patterson, 86, who was governor from 1958 to 1963, will also sign copies of his biography “Nobody But the People” alongside the author, Warren Trest. Andy Johns will tell you about Patterson and advance his appearance in Ashland.
Rep. Randy Wood (R-Anniston) has filed a bill, which has cleared committee, that allows sheriffs and district attorneys to be present at executions. Current law excludes them. Markeshia Ricks has this story.
The JPA meets tonight. What did they discuss?
Matt Kasper will have an advance on the Mountain Longleaf Festival this weekend.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Tuesday in The Anniston Star
Check out Tuesday's Anniston Star for these stories:
Trustees at JSU voted to raise tuition and fees to deal with tight state budget. Meanwhile, students showed up to protest the proposed expansion of Paul Snow Stadium. Megan Nichols will have both these stories.
Megan also looks at the spring break activities being coordinated for local school children.
Nick Cenegy will attend the meeting Monday night of a commitee formed to address violent crime. What came out of the meeting?
Congressman Mike Rogers (R-Saks) was in town to speak at a breakfast for small business owners. What did he have to say?
Don't forget to file your taxes!
Trustees at JSU voted to raise tuition and fees to deal with tight state budget. Meanwhile, students showed up to protest the proposed expansion of Paul Snow Stadium. Megan Nichols will have both these stories.
Megan also looks at the spring break activities being coordinated for local school children.
Nick Cenegy will attend the meeting Monday night of a commitee formed to address violent crime. What came out of the meeting?
Congressman Mike Rogers (R-Saks) was in town to speak at a breakfast for small business owners. What did he have to say?
Don't forget to file your taxes!
Friday, April 11, 2008
This weekend in The Anniston Star
Check out The Anniston Star for these stories this weekend:
On Saturday:
Todd South has a profile of a woman who has established a public library in Munford with her own volunteer labor and donated books.
Megan Nichols has an advance on cleanup day in Anniston, which will be held on April 19. There will be a meeting for volunteers on Monday.
On Sunday:
Dan Whisenhunt checks in with the Anniston Board of Education in advance of election season.
A judge is holding up implementation of rules that would prevent junior college employees and other state workers from serving in the Legistlature. Markeshia Ricks has this story.
On Monday:
Todd South profiles a local man who is workin gon his second book.
On Saturday:
Todd South has a profile of a woman who has established a public library in Munford with her own volunteer labor and donated books.
Megan Nichols has an advance on cleanup day in Anniston, which will be held on April 19. There will be a meeting for volunteers on Monday.
On Sunday:
Dan Whisenhunt checks in with the Anniston Board of Education in advance of election season.
A judge is holding up implementation of rules that would prevent junior college employees and other state workers from serving in the Legistlature. Markeshia Ricks has this story.
On Monday:
Todd South profiles a local man who is workin gon his second book.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Friday in The Anniston Star
Check out Friday's Anniston Star for these stories:
A "Stop the Violence" roundtable is being held Thursday night in Anniston. The Sheriff's Office, Police Department, the mayor, and others are expected to participate. Nick Cenegy will let you know who attended and what was discussed.
Pleasant Valley High School's scholar's bowl team is headed to the state championship in Birmingham this weekend. Matt Kasper has this story.
Friday's expected storms look less threatening than models predicted Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service in Birmingham. But we're still supposed to get some weather. Todd South will tell you what's forecasted.
A joint resolution passed the state Senate which will create a committee to draft a statewide water management plan. It's on its way to the governor's desk. Sen. Kim Benefied, D-Woodland, was one sponsor.
A "Stop the Violence" roundtable is being held Thursday night in Anniston. The Sheriff's Office, Police Department, the mayor, and others are expected to participate. Nick Cenegy will let you know who attended and what was discussed.
Pleasant Valley High School's scholar's bowl team is headed to the state championship in Birmingham this weekend. Matt Kasper has this story.
Friday's expected storms look less threatening than models predicted Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service in Birmingham. But we're still supposed to get some weather. Todd South will tell you what's forecasted.
A joint resolution passed the state Senate which will create a committee to draft a statewide water management plan. It's on its way to the governor's desk. Sen. Kim Benefied, D-Woodland, was one sponsor.
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Thursday in The Star
Check out Thursday's Anniston Star for these stories:
Anniston taxi companies are asking the city for permission to raise rates in the face of rising gas prices. Megan Nichols has this story.
A swath of eastern Alabama has high rates of death and hospitalization from strokes. Why? Andy Johns writes about this issue.
Get ready for another round of severe weather on Friday. What can we expect in the Anniston area? Todd South updates you on what we might see later in the week.
A bill providing tax incentives to lure filmakers to Alabama appears to be on hold. Markeshia Ricks reports on the status of the bill.
Anniston taxi companies are asking the city for permission to raise rates in the face of rising gas prices. Megan Nichols has this story.
A swath of eastern Alabama has high rates of death and hospitalization from strokes. Why? Andy Johns writes about this issue.
Get ready for another round of severe weather on Friday. What can we expect in the Anniston area? Todd South updates you on what we might see later in the week.
A bill providing tax incentives to lure filmakers to Alabama appears to be on hold. Markeshia Ricks reports on the status of the bill.
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
Wednesday in The Star
Check out these stories in Wednesday's Anniston Star:
Makeshia Ricks has a story about bills making their way through the state House and Senate which would provide incentives to bring the movie industry to Alabama. But, the Alabama Education Association wants to attached an adult entertainment tax to one of the bills, and it could threaten the success of the incentives legislation.
Todd South will cover the Oxford City Council's meeting. They are expected to vote on a resolution designating downtown as a historic district.
Alexandria and Saks students built a moonbuggy for a NASA competition. Andy Johns will tell you all about their creations. Alexandria won an award for most innovative buggy.
If you went looking for the story about jail food and how Alabama sheriffs can keep any unspent money in Tuesday's newspaper you wouldn't have found it. That's because editors decided to hold the story for Wednesday's paper. It happens sometimes if a story isn't time sensitive that it gets held over a day or so, mostly because of space constraints. Megan Nichols story on this issue runs Wednesday. The state provides $1.75 per day, per prisoner for food. If they can feed inmates in their jails for less than that, Alabama sheriffs are allowed by law to keep any overages for their personal use. However, because Calhoun County is one of a few Alabama counties in which the County Commission controls prisoner food, the law does not apply here.
Makeshia Ricks has a story about bills making their way through the state House and Senate which would provide incentives to bring the movie industry to Alabama. But, the Alabama Education Association wants to attached an adult entertainment tax to one of the bills, and it could threaten the success of the incentives legislation.
Todd South will cover the Oxford City Council's meeting. They are expected to vote on a resolution designating downtown as a historic district.
Alexandria and Saks students built a moonbuggy for a NASA competition. Andy Johns will tell you all about their creations. Alexandria won an award for most innovative buggy.
If you went looking for the story about jail food and how Alabama sheriffs can keep any unspent money in Tuesday's newspaper you wouldn't have found it. That's because editors decided to hold the story for Wednesday's paper. It happens sometimes if a story isn't time sensitive that it gets held over a day or so, mostly because of space constraints. Megan Nichols story on this issue runs Wednesday. The state provides $1.75 per day, per prisoner for food. If they can feed inmates in their jails for less than that, Alabama sheriffs are allowed by law to keep any overages for their personal use. However, because Calhoun County is one of a few Alabama counties in which the County Commission controls prisoner food, the law does not apply here.
Monday, April 07, 2008
Tuesday in The Anniston Star
Check out Tuesday's Star for these stories:
A recent opinion by state Attorney General Troy King affirmed an archaic Alabama law that says sheriffs can pocket money left over from feeding prisoners, but the practice does not happen in Calhoun County, officials said. The state provides $1.75 per day, per prisoner for food. If they can feed inmates in their jails for less than that, Alabama sheriffs are allowed by law to keep any overages for their personal use. However, because Calhoun County is one of a few Alabama counties in which the County Commission controls prisoner food, the law does not apply here. Megan Nichols has this story.
Andy Johns has an update on the rain we've had, plus forecasts. We've had about 16 inches of rain this year. Last year we didn't get that until November.
Matt Kasper writes about the services which were held for the Rev. Dr. A.A. Scales of Anniston who was the state president of the SCLC and pastor of a Gadsden church.
BAE Systems has got a new contract for building vehicles. Todd South will tell you how much the contract is and what it will be used for.
A recent opinion by state Attorney General Troy King affirmed an archaic Alabama law that says sheriffs can pocket money left over from feeding prisoners, but the practice does not happen in Calhoun County, officials said. The state provides $1.75 per day, per prisoner for food. If they can feed inmates in their jails for less than that, Alabama sheriffs are allowed by law to keep any overages for their personal use. However, because Calhoun County is one of a few Alabama counties in which the County Commission controls prisoner food, the law does not apply here. Megan Nichols has this story.
Andy Johns has an update on the rain we've had, plus forecasts. We've had about 16 inches of rain this year. Last year we didn't get that until November.
Matt Kasper writes about the services which were held for the Rev. Dr. A.A. Scales of Anniston who was the state president of the SCLC and pastor of a Gadsden church.
BAE Systems has got a new contract for building vehicles. Todd South will tell you how much the contract is and what it will be used for.
Saturday, April 05, 2008
Favorites, old and new
This Sunday's Bookshelf sees the third in our new series of "classics." Features editor Laura Tutor reviews Anna Karenina (which she read before in Russian and only now read in English).
Steve Whitton reviews the new book by Endless Love author Scott Spencer. Although Spencer addresses the themes of isolation and obsession well enough in Willing, the book just gets to be "too much," Whitton writes.
Lindsay Maples reviews the sequel to the laugh-out-loud The Spellman Files, which she heartily enjoyed, and finds that she is just as satisfied with the Curse of the Spellmans. Lisa Lutz's characters and writing are quirky, sometimes caustic, and reliably hilarious.
Readers should be interested to read about the upcoming Alabama Book Festival in Montgomery, sponsored by the Alabama Center for the Book at Auburn University. The free event will be April 19 in Old Alabama Town from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will feature something for everyone, even children. For more information, visit the website at www.alabamabookcenter.org or call 334-844-4946.
Steve Whitton reviews the new book by Endless Love author Scott Spencer. Although Spencer addresses the themes of isolation and obsession well enough in Willing, the book just gets to be "too much," Whitton writes.
Lindsay Maples reviews the sequel to the laugh-out-loud The Spellman Files, which she heartily enjoyed, and finds that she is just as satisfied with the Curse of the Spellmans. Lisa Lutz's characters and writing are quirky, sometimes caustic, and reliably hilarious.
Readers should be interested to read about the upcoming Alabama Book Festival in Montgomery, sponsored by the Alabama Center for the Book at Auburn University. The free event will be April 19 in Old Alabama Town from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will feature something for everyone, even children. For more information, visit the website at www.alabamabookcenter.org or call 334-844-4946.
Friday, April 04, 2008
This weekend in The Anniston Star
Check out The Anniston Star for these stories:
On Saturday:
Andy Johns will tell you what the weather brought our way. As of 4:46 p.m. Friday we've still got threatening skies and are under a tornado watch until 9 p.m.
A Spanish-Italian-Cuban restaurant just opened in Randolph County. Andy Johns will have a profile of the new establishment. What do they offer?
We'll also have an update on the explosion of a mobile home in northern Calhoun County.
On Sunday:
Nick Cenegy takes a look at the state's new early-release program for some inmates. It's intended to relieve overcrowding problems.
Markeshia Ricks talks to local mental health and DHR workers about the cuts that could affect them with coming changes in Medicaid funding.
Todd South as an update on Kronospan, including an update on the new local manufacturer's hiring.
Todd also has a story about entrepreneurs in Munford who have turned a former one-room schoolhouse into a wedding chapel.
On Saturday:
Andy Johns will tell you what the weather brought our way. As of 4:46 p.m. Friday we've still got threatening skies and are under a tornado watch until 9 p.m.
A Spanish-Italian-Cuban restaurant just opened in Randolph County. Andy Johns will have a profile of the new establishment. What do they offer?
We'll also have an update on the explosion of a mobile home in northern Calhoun County.
On Sunday:
Nick Cenegy takes a look at the state's new early-release program for some inmates. It's intended to relieve overcrowding problems.
Markeshia Ricks talks to local mental health and DHR workers about the cuts that could affect them with coming changes in Medicaid funding.
Todd South as an update on Kronospan, including an update on the new local manufacturer's hiring.
Todd also has a story about entrepreneurs in Munford who have turned a former one-room schoolhouse into a wedding chapel.
A reader's complaint ... and our answer
I received a sharply worded criticism from a reader this morning. In short, this reader, whose name I’m withholding, is unhappy with our format changes and strongly suggests that our editorial board’s views are improperly influencing our news coverage.
I’ll address the first concern below, after publishing the complaint.
As to the second charge of bias, I reject the allegation, which is a shop-worn complaint employed against far more media outlets than The Anniston Star.
(This post from the Center for American Progress is a handy primer.)
To cite but one small example from today’s paper: The editorial page strongly opposed the U.S. invasion in Iraq and has steadfastly chronicled the many disasters that have proceeded from that ongoing war. Yet, this morning’s Page 2A headline boldly states, “Report says Iraq security has improved since August assessment.” Would a biased media outlet proclaim what appears to be good news out of a troubled place? Doesn’t seem likely.
As I said, that’s a small example. I’m confident we could do much the same every day we publish.
Or maybe that noted political scientist Stephen Colbert was right when he said, “Reality has a well-known liberal bias.”
Granted, this isn’t the last word on the subject – either from the newspaper or its detractors.
Now, on to the unhappy e-mail:
I believe a good starting point is to note that this newspaper is not perfect. We – meaning the writers and editors -- can and do make mistakes, simple spelling mistakes, mistakes of fact and mistakes of news judgment (i.e. not putting enough emphasis on stories that deserve more attention).
We do not shrug this fact off with an “oh well, mistakes happen” attitude. We work every day to get better, to correct errors and to contemplate what we do and why.
Second, I welcome letters like this. They keep us on our toes, forcing self-evaluation. We have a loyal reader here; he wants the best for “his” newspaper. I’m glad to get the e-mail, even if it delivers unhappy news.
Now to the central complaint about the paper’s format.
We started with a simple premise. In a time-squeezed world, readers have consistently made a request, Don’t waste my time. Tell me the essentials that I need to live and work in this community. This includes jumping fewer stories from the front page to one on the inside and offering more community news, the news most unique to our cover-age area. This is based on research from reputable sources; two are here and here.
Our design changes are an attempt to address those concerns by emphasizing more local news, in ways that offer readers a condensed version on Page 1 and more details on inside pages. It's also worth noting - re local news - that this newspaper is the only source for much of the reporting within our coverage area. (Along with this local news report, we cannot and will not ignore that wider world around us. ) Our format serves two camps -– those who want a “just the facts, ma’am” report and those who prefer a deeper drilling down of the story.
The results in terms of newspaper circulation, while not glowing, are that the trends are improving from last year. Like I said, our reports are not great, but they are better than the national trend for newspaper circulation. While not a perfect model to study, we take it as encouragement; readers appear to support our changes to (a.) go more local and (b.) become more user-friendly. By anecdote, we have heard from readers who would disagree with my e-mailer; they have said they prefer the paper’s new look.
I hope our loyal-yet-unhappy reader will stick with us. We can’t promise he’ll be 100percent pleased. I can promise that we will – as we do daily – work diligently to improve this community newspaper.
I’ll address the first concern below, after publishing the complaint.
As to the second charge of bias, I reject the allegation, which is a shop-worn complaint employed against far more media outlets than The Anniston Star.
(This post from the Center for American Progress is a handy primer.)
To cite but one small example from today’s paper: The editorial page strongly opposed the U.S. invasion in Iraq and has steadfastly chronicled the many disasters that have proceeded from that ongoing war. Yet, this morning’s Page 2A headline boldly states, “Report says Iraq security has improved since August assessment.” Would a biased media outlet proclaim what appears to be good news out of a troubled place? Doesn’t seem likely.
As I said, that’s a small example. I’m confident we could do much the same every day we publish.
Or maybe that noted political scientist Stephen Colbert was right when he said, “Reality has a well-known liberal bias.”
Granted, this isn’t the last word on the subject – either from the newspaper or its detractors.
Now, on to the unhappy e-mail:
Mr. Davis -
the recent changes to the lay out of the front page is totally unacceptable to either myself or my wife. Most days more then half the stories either end on the front page or only preview the story inside. This morning, of the 6 stories on the front, every one of them is finished on the front page, or promotes a story on the inside. I expect better from the paper I read every morning.
You recently greatly reduced the number of pages in the paper. Now you are wasting an entire front page. Often the promoted stories are everything you need to know about the issue, so when you turn to the actually, somewhat longer story, it’s a waste of time. Nothing new is learned, yet more spaced is wasted.
Finally, it makes the paper look like either USAToday - which I read on the road because THEY GIVE IT AWAY - or a supermarket tabloid. That is not what I want to read in the morning. I can not understand what you all were thinking.
While I am use[d] to the pitiful way that the editorial views color this paper's coverage of nearly everything, and indeed I can live with your total inability to be even handed in your coverage of any national event, I can not continue to read a paper whose front section on Mondays & Tuesdays is 4 pages, one of them wasted telling me what I can find inside, and the final page wasted by a generally mean spirited attempt at humor. What was the point of printing and delivering that?
This is journalism 101 as I recall - if it is important enough to be on the front page, its important enough to discuss in some detail. If underage drinking is the problem folks say, then it deserves more then the pitiful 20% of the front page it got. Students "claim" the[y] drink - do they? Other studies show the actually don't, but think everyone is so they do. Is under-age drinking a problem, or is our inability to teach responsible drinking the problem? What about the movement to lower the drinking age in several states?
- NH, Vt, SC, SD, all immediately jump to mind. How can an 19 year old just back from Iraqi be told he's too young to drink?
You all have about a month to change the situation before I cancel. We already get the Birmingham News 4 days a week. Your recent changes are about to be the final nail in the coffin. I would like to see you correct the problem before its too late.
[Name and city of residence withheld]
I believe a good starting point is to note that this newspaper is not perfect. We – meaning the writers and editors -- can and do make mistakes, simple spelling mistakes, mistakes of fact and mistakes of news judgment (i.e. not putting enough emphasis on stories that deserve more attention).
We do not shrug this fact off with an “oh well, mistakes happen” attitude. We work every day to get better, to correct errors and to contemplate what we do and why.
Second, I welcome letters like this. They keep us on our toes, forcing self-evaluation. We have a loyal reader here; he wants the best for “his” newspaper. I’m glad to get the e-mail, even if it delivers unhappy news.
Now to the central complaint about the paper’s format.
We started with a simple premise. In a time-squeezed world, readers have consistently made a request, Don’t waste my time. Tell me the essentials that I need to live and work in this community. This includes jumping fewer stories from the front page to one on the inside and offering more community news, the news most unique to our cover-age area. This is based on research from reputable sources; two are here and here.
Our design changes are an attempt to address those concerns by emphasizing more local news, in ways that offer readers a condensed version on Page 1 and more details on inside pages. It's also worth noting - re local news - that this newspaper is the only source for much of the reporting within our coverage area. (Along with this local news report, we cannot and will not ignore that wider world around us. ) Our format serves two camps -– those who want a “just the facts, ma’am” report and those who prefer a deeper drilling down of the story.
The results in terms of newspaper circulation, while not glowing, are that the trends are improving from last year. Like I said, our reports are not great, but they are better than the national trend for newspaper circulation. While not a perfect model to study, we take it as encouragement; readers appear to support our changes to (a.) go more local and (b.) become more user-friendly. By anecdote, we have heard from readers who would disagree with my e-mailer; they have said they prefer the paper’s new look.
I hope our loyal-yet-unhappy reader will stick with us. We can’t promise he’ll be 100percent pleased. I can promise that we will – as we do daily – work diligently to improve this community newspaper.
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Thursday in The Star
Check out Thursday's Anniston Star for these stories:
Three are dead after separate shootings Tuesday - two died after shooting Tuesday night in Anniston, one was killed and one sent to hospital, treated and released after another early morning shooting in Hobson City. Nick Cenegy has this story.
Are farmers planting differently because of the drought? Andy Johns asks local farmers how the recent weather has affected their planting plans.
Lawmakers say a series of bills passed out of the House Public Safety Committee Wednesday could bring teenage driving deaths down significantly in the state if the Legislature will pass them this session. Markeshia Ricks looks at the bills and what the impact might be.
About a year ago lifelong friends Maurice Whatley, Mark Jackson and Xavier Brooks decided a team was the way to go and formed Cap Hill Inc., an independent hip-hop label. Todd South has this story.
Three are dead after separate shootings Tuesday - two died after shooting Tuesday night in Anniston, one was killed and one sent to hospital, treated and released after another early morning shooting in Hobson City. Nick Cenegy has this story.
Are farmers planting differently because of the drought? Andy Johns asks local farmers how the recent weather has affected their planting plans.
Lawmakers say a series of bills passed out of the House Public Safety Committee Wednesday could bring teenage driving deaths down significantly in the state if the Legislature will pass them this session. Markeshia Ricks looks at the bills and what the impact might be.
About a year ago lifelong friends Maurice Whatley, Mark Jackson and Xavier Brooks decided a team was the way to go and formed Cap Hill Inc., an independent hip-hop label. Todd South has this story.
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
Wednesday in The Star
Coming Wednesday in The Anniston Star:
Results from the UAB study of the effects of PCB exposure on middle-school students will be presented at a community meeting on Tuesday. Megan Nichols will report on what is in the study.
Campuses everywhere are looking closer at security after violence at Virginia Tech and Northern Illinois as well as murders at Auburn and UNC. Dan Whisenhunt looks at what Jacksonville State University doing to improve campus stafety.
Markeshia Ricks talks with local mental health and DHR folks about the cuts that could affect them with coming changes in Medicaid funding.
Nick Cenegy writes about potential changes in the Calhoun County coroner's office that would be wrought by proposed legislation.
Results from the UAB study of the effects of PCB exposure on middle-school students will be presented at a community meeting on Tuesday. Megan Nichols will report on what is in the study.
Campuses everywhere are looking closer at security after violence at Virginia Tech and Northern Illinois as well as murders at Auburn and UNC. Dan Whisenhunt looks at what Jacksonville State University doing to improve campus stafety.
Markeshia Ricks talks with local mental health and DHR folks about the cuts that could affect them with coming changes in Medicaid funding.
Nick Cenegy writes about potential changes in the Calhoun County coroner's office that would be wrought by proposed legislation.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Tuesday in The Star
Check out Tuesday's Star for these stories:
Hobson City residents and volunteers hosted a town meeting to present their strategic plan for the municipality. What do people think about the plan and what are its suggestions? Todd South has this story.
Markeshia Ricks takes a look at some of the potential economic impacts of proposed immigration legislation in the state. The bills are expected to come up for discussion on Tuesday.
Matt Kasper has a story about a speaker who visited JSU to talk about banking mergers and acquisitions. The visit of Dr. John S. Jahera was part of the "Eminent Scholar Research Series."
Hobson City residents and volunteers hosted a town meeting to present their strategic plan for the municipality. What do people think about the plan and what are its suggestions? Todd South has this story.
Markeshia Ricks takes a look at some of the potential economic impacts of proposed immigration legislation in the state. The bills are expected to come up for discussion on Tuesday.
Matt Kasper has a story about a speaker who visited JSU to talk about banking mergers and acquisitions. The visit of Dr. John S. Jahera was part of the "Eminent Scholar Research Series."
Friday, March 28, 2008
Coming Sunday in Insight
Everything you ever wanted to know about Ronald Reagan, the GOP's true conservative, and presidential nominee John McCain, who some in the party feel isn't conservative enough.
This weekend in The Star
Coming this weekend in The Star:
On Saturday:
The Joint Powers Authority at McClellan is working with the Calhoun County state legislative delegation to pass a bill that would recognize the JPA and affect its land sales. Megan Nichols has this story.
In the coming months, Heflin residents sill have the opportunity to shoot, skate and sling as the parks department plans to add an archery park, and skate park and a Frisbee golf course. Andy Johns will tell you all about the park.
Anniston firefighters visited with Children’s Rehabilitation Services in Anniston.
On Sunday:
Todd South profiles the workers who suit up to enter the chemicals weapons incinerator. There's a ton of regulations and a web of support staff monitoring a handful of workers who seal up in plastic suits to work on equipment that dissassembles and destroyts deadly chemical weapons.
Matt Kasper has a profile of a Piedmont-based gospel radio station. Its got a one-person staff.
On Saturday:
The Joint Powers Authority at McClellan is working with the Calhoun County state legislative delegation to pass a bill that would recognize the JPA and affect its land sales. Megan Nichols has this story.
In the coming months, Heflin residents sill have the opportunity to shoot, skate and sling as the parks department plans to add an archery park, and skate park and a Frisbee golf course. Andy Johns will tell you all about the park.
Anniston firefighters visited with Children’s Rehabilitation Services in Anniston.
On Sunday:
Todd South profiles the workers who suit up to enter the chemicals weapons incinerator. There's a ton of regulations and a web of support staff monitoring a handful of workers who seal up in plastic suits to work on equipment that dissassembles and destroyts deadly chemical weapons.
Matt Kasper has a profile of a Piedmont-based gospel radio station. Its got a one-person staff.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Thursday in The Star
Check out Thursday's Star for these stories:
Todd South writes about the Oxford Exchange. Five year of fourth quarter sales tax revenue - three years before the Exchange and now almost two years with it, what impact has the shopping center made in the busiest of sales tax quarters?
Markeshia Ricks has two stories out of the state Legislature. One looks at the potential costs to implement some of the efforts aimed at illegal immigration. The other concerns a bill that would have allowed firearms on college campuses. College officials spoke against the proposals at a hearing Wednesday. The legislative committee decided to let the bills die.
Anniston Mayor Chip Howell has a collection of old postcards of the city. Megan Nichols takes a look.
Todd South writes about the Oxford Exchange. Five year of fourth quarter sales tax revenue - three years before the Exchange and now almost two years with it, what impact has the shopping center made in the busiest of sales tax quarters?
Markeshia Ricks has two stories out of the state Legislature. One looks at the potential costs to implement some of the efforts aimed at illegal immigration. The other concerns a bill that would have allowed firearms on college campuses. College officials spoke against the proposals at a hearing Wednesday. The legislative committee decided to let the bills die.
Anniston Mayor Chip Howell has a collection of old postcards of the city. Megan Nichols takes a look.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Wednesday in The Star
Check out Wednesday's Anniston Star for these stories:
The Anniston Board of Education held a work session to discuss potential budget cuts. Dan Whisenhunt will tell you what's on the table for the city schools as they deal with budget shortfall.
A California-based company may be moving its corporate headquarters to Anniston, if the Joint Powers Authority at McClellan agrees to sell it a building. The JPA marketing committee discussed a proposal from DirecTex to purchase a warehouse at its Tuesday morning meeting. Megan Nichols has this story.
Nick Cenegy writes about the Zerometh campaign. Some critics say it does a good job of scaring potential users but there's not a lot to steer addicts to assistance.
Markeshia Ricks looks at the package of bills focused on illegal immigration coming up this week in the state Legislature.
Todd South attended a talk in Oxford, sponsored by the Eagle Forum, on immigration. What was discussed?
The Anniston Board of Education held a work session to discuss potential budget cuts. Dan Whisenhunt will tell you what's on the table for the city schools as they deal with budget shortfall.
A California-based company may be moving its corporate headquarters to Anniston, if the Joint Powers Authority at McClellan agrees to sell it a building. The JPA marketing committee discussed a proposal from DirecTex to purchase a warehouse at its Tuesday morning meeting. Megan Nichols has this story.
Nick Cenegy writes about the Zerometh campaign. Some critics say it does a good job of scaring potential users but there's not a lot to steer addicts to assistance.
Markeshia Ricks looks at the package of bills focused on illegal immigration coming up this week in the state Legislature.
Todd South attended a talk in Oxford, sponsored by the Eagle Forum, on immigration. What was discussed?
Monday, March 24, 2008
Tuesday in The Star
Anniston’s Fourth Street Train Station is ready to be occupied after renovations, city officials said. The only remaining question is who will occupy it.
An assistant principal at Lineville Elementary and High Schools died in a hunting accident over the weekend, the Clay County coroner said Monday. Gerald “Gerry” Elliot, 39, was out turkey hunting early Saturday when he tried to climb a barbed-wire fence and slipped, Coroner Dale Rush said.
Two local teachers are on a short list of finalists for Alabama’s Teacher of the Year award, the Alabama Department of Education reported Monday.Amber Trantham, a third-grade teacher at Alexandria Elementary School and Deedee Adams, a math teacher at Oxford High School, made the department’s “sweet 16” list of educators from around the state.
An assistant principal at Lineville Elementary and High Schools died in a hunting accident over the weekend, the Clay County coroner said Monday. Gerald “Gerry” Elliot, 39, was out turkey hunting early Saturday when he tried to climb a barbed-wire fence and slipped, Coroner Dale Rush said.
Two local teachers are on a short list of finalists for Alabama’s Teacher of the Year award, the Alabama Department of Education reported Monday.Amber Trantham, a third-grade teacher at Alexandria Elementary School and Deedee Adams, a math teacher at Oxford High School, made the department’s “sweet 16” list of educators from around the state.
Friday, March 21, 2008
This weekend in The Star
Check out The Star this weekend for these stories:
On Saturday:
Easter is earlier this year than it has been in about 100 years and it won't be this early again for centuries. How has that affected local plans to mark the holiday? Megan Nichols has this story.
Dan Whisenhunt takes a look at the history of the Cherokee Phoenix, a newspaper published in the tribal capital in northern Georgia. There's an exhibit about the newspaper at the Berman Musuem in Anniston right now.
Dan also has this story: There's been no movement in Anniston superintendent search - In the seven months after the Anniston Board of Education fired Superintendent Sammy Lee Felton, the board has not begun looking for his permanent replacement.
On Sunday:
Laura Tutor takes a look at the governor's pre-K program proposal.
Markeshia Ricks writes about how a series of changes to Medicaid stands to cost Alabama lots of money as the federal government expects the states to begin picking up the tab for a number of health services from hospitals to rehab centers to schools.
Todd South profiles the Always a Soldier Program which gives former service members who’ve sustained service-related disabilities and earned the Purple Heart for combat-connected injuries employment opportunities at civilian jobs that support the military.
On Saturday:
Easter is earlier this year than it has been in about 100 years and it won't be this early again for centuries. How has that affected local plans to mark the holiday? Megan Nichols has this story.
Dan Whisenhunt takes a look at the history of the Cherokee Phoenix, a newspaper published in the tribal capital in northern Georgia. There's an exhibit about the newspaper at the Berman Musuem in Anniston right now.
Dan also has this story: There's been no movement in Anniston superintendent search - In the seven months after the Anniston Board of Education fired Superintendent Sammy Lee Felton, the board has not begun looking for his permanent replacement.
On Sunday:
Laura Tutor takes a look at the governor's pre-K program proposal.
Markeshia Ricks writes about how a series of changes to Medicaid stands to cost Alabama lots of money as the federal government expects the states to begin picking up the tab for a number of health services from hospitals to rehab centers to schools.
Todd South profiles the Always a Soldier Program which gives former service members who’ve sustained service-related disabilities and earned the Purple Heart for combat-connected injuries employment opportunities at civilian jobs that support the military.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Friday in The Star
Check out Friday's Star for these stories:
The Anniston branch of BAE Systems will get $47.2 million to build 65,000 metal armor plates for combat vehicles commonly deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. Todd South looks at what this means for the region.
Climate prediction experts say drought conditions will improve this spring for most of the Southeast, bringing some measure of relief to anyone who grows things for a living. Andy Johns has this story.
Like school systems across the country, White Plains and the rest of Calhoun County Schools face twin pressures of limited financial resources and increased pressure to show kids can perform on math and reading tests. That often squeezes out such subjects as the arts and foreign languages. But an idea borrowed from higher education could help expand local elementary schools’ offerings. Dan Whisenhunt writes about this.
The Anniston branch of BAE Systems will get $47.2 million to build 65,000 metal armor plates for combat vehicles commonly deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. Todd South looks at what this means for the region.
Climate prediction experts say drought conditions will improve this spring for most of the Southeast, bringing some measure of relief to anyone who grows things for a living. Andy Johns has this story.
Like school systems across the country, White Plains and the rest of Calhoun County Schools face twin pressures of limited financial resources and increased pressure to show kids can perform on math and reading tests. That often squeezes out such subjects as the arts and foreign languages. But an idea borrowed from higher education could help expand local elementary schools’ offerings. Dan Whisenhunt writes about this.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Thursday in The Star
Alabama’s children’s health insurance program is caught between a rock and a hard place.The federal government failed to reauthorize and provide additional funding for the program that provides health insurance to low-income children who don’t qualify for Medicaid, and can’t afford private insurance.On top of that, the state has fallen on hard financial times, with shortfall of more than $200 million expected for the general fund. The general fund essentially covers all the state’s non-education expenses. Markeshia Ricks has this story.
Matt Kasper has a story about the memorial services for Army Capt. Torre Mallard, held Wednesday in Anniston. He was killed last week while serving in Iraq.
With the decision to withdraw their interest in building a race complex in Heflin, George Howard Racing is exploring a site in Lincoln instead. Andy Johns writes about this.
Workers at the Anniston Army Depot are links in a chain that will keep a 50-year old artillery piece firing for another 50 years. Depot workers have overhauled the Paladin Self-Propelled Howitzer since the mid-1990s. A new upgrade to the system, announced Friday will give the depot some more work to do. BAE Systems will produce six prototypes of the 155mm artillery piece for testing at Fort Sill, Okla. in 2009, said Garrie Dornan, spokesman for BAE Ground Systems.
Matt Kasper has a story about the memorial services for Army Capt. Torre Mallard, held Wednesday in Anniston. He was killed last week while serving in Iraq.
With the decision to withdraw their interest in building a race complex in Heflin, George Howard Racing is exploring a site in Lincoln instead. Andy Johns writes about this.
Workers at the Anniston Army Depot are links in a chain that will keep a 50-year old artillery piece firing for another 50 years. Depot workers have overhauled the Paladin Self-Propelled Howitzer since the mid-1990s. A new upgrade to the system, announced Friday will give the depot some more work to do. BAE Systems will produce six prototypes of the 155mm artillery piece for testing at Fort Sill, Okla. in 2009, said Garrie Dornan, spokesman for BAE Ground Systems.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Wednesday in The Star
Check out The Anniston Star for these stories Wednesday:
The Jacksonville trees get to stay. Calhoun County Circuit Judge John Thomason signed an order that will keep Alabama Power Co. from taking down trees that have been a source of controversy in Jacksonville. Matt Kasper has this story.
Markeshia Ricks has a story about a bill moving through the Legislature, sponsored by Rep. Lea Fite, D-Jacksonville, that would allow more low-income women in Alabama to receive treatment for breast and cervical cancer.The bill will face an uphill battle as the state braces for budget shortfalls and prepares to cut funding for Alabama’s breast and cervical cancer early-detection program, which is aimed at poor women.
What's next for the Cleburne Industrial Park? Is the race track proposal completely dead? Andy Johns looks into this story.
Will the Anniston City Council be returning to live TV? Council members are supposed to discuss the possibility at the Tuesday night meeting. Megan Nichols will tell us what they decide.
The Jacksonville trees get to stay. Calhoun County Circuit Judge John Thomason signed an order that will keep Alabama Power Co. from taking down trees that have been a source of controversy in Jacksonville. Matt Kasper has this story.
Markeshia Ricks has a story about a bill moving through the Legislature, sponsored by Rep. Lea Fite, D-Jacksonville, that would allow more low-income women in Alabama to receive treatment for breast and cervical cancer.The bill will face an uphill battle as the state braces for budget shortfalls and prepares to cut funding for Alabama’s breast and cervical cancer early-detection program, which is aimed at poor women.
What's next for the Cleburne Industrial Park? Is the race track proposal completely dead? Andy Johns looks into this story.
Will the Anniston City Council be returning to live TV? Council members are supposed to discuss the possibility at the Tuesday night meeting. Megan Nichols will tell us what they decide.
Preachers and pols
The Star is preparing an editorial on controversial statements made by preachers supporting presidential candidates. For more reading, here's a list of links:
1. The American Prospect magazine's blog has a post titled THE CRAZY PREACHER WARS.
2. Marc Armbinder blogs for The Atlantic magazine. Has a post on the subject.
3. Mother Jones magazine first reported the connection between John McCain and an Ohio preacher who, in his writings, calls for a holy war with Islam.
4. The Guardian writes a story on McCain and reaction to his endorsement by an anti-Catholic preacher.
5. The Dallas Morning News' Rod Dreher comments on the importance of the Obama-Wright story.
6. This National Review blog is wall-to-wall with Obama-Wright talk.
1. The American Prospect magazine's blog has a post titled THE CRAZY PREACHER WARS.
2. Marc Armbinder blogs for The Atlantic magazine. Has a post on the subject.
3. Mother Jones magazine first reported the connection between John McCain and an Ohio preacher who, in his writings, calls for a holy war with Islam.
4. The Guardian writes a story on McCain and reaction to his endorsement by an anti-Catholic preacher.
5. The Dallas Morning News' Rod Dreher comments on the importance of the Obama-Wright story.
6. This National Review blog is wall-to-wall with Obama-Wright talk.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Tuesday in The Star
Check out Tuesday's Anniston Star for these stories:
Former Anniston schools superintendent Sammy Lee Felton is suing the city’s school board for firing him, The Star has learned. Dan Whisenhunt has this story.
Dan also has a follow-up story on the Southern Association of Schools and College's report about Anniston High School.
Bill Edwards writes about a group of high school students from Minnesota who are in town volunteering for Habitat for Humanity.
The Alabama Low-Income Housing Coalition hosted a listening post today. What did residents and officials have to say?
Former Anniston schools superintendent Sammy Lee Felton is suing the city’s school board for firing him, The Star has learned. Dan Whisenhunt has this story.
Dan also has a follow-up story on the Southern Association of Schools and College's report about Anniston High School.
Bill Edwards writes about a group of high school students from Minnesota who are in town volunteering for Habitat for Humanity.
The Alabama Low-Income Housing Coalition hosted a listening post today. What did residents and officials have to say?
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Friday in The Star
A former accountant for Calhoun County Habitat for Humanity was arrested and charged Tuesday with allegedly using her position to steal the identity of a co-worker and embezzle money from the organization. Nick Cenegy has this story.
Since 2006, traffic congestion in the area has raised calls for a fix to roads over which nearly 1,400 students travel to the C.E. Hanna School and Oxford Middle School. Council members have pointed to narrow Edith Avenue, which carries C.E. Hanna traffic, as a particularly dangerous route. But, one of the two proposed plans to fix traffic problems at C.E. Hanna Elementary School raises ethical questions, Oxford council members say. Todd South looks at this story.
Matt Kasper checked in with the mural painting being done in Piedmont. What's it look like and how is the project going?
The Alabama Legislature is considering no less than 18 bills that will restrict where sex offenders live, how many sex offenders can live in one house and increase the penalties for committing crimes against children. Markeshia Ricks gives an overview of the bills.
Developers plan to answer the Cleburne County Industrial Board's questions about a proposed racing complex that has drawn the ire of potential neighbors. Andy Johns has this story.
Since 2006, traffic congestion in the area has raised calls for a fix to roads over which nearly 1,400 students travel to the C.E. Hanna School and Oxford Middle School. Council members have pointed to narrow Edith Avenue, which carries C.E. Hanna traffic, as a particularly dangerous route. But, one of the two proposed plans to fix traffic problems at C.E. Hanna Elementary School raises ethical questions, Oxford council members say. Todd South looks at this story.
Matt Kasper checked in with the mural painting being done in Piedmont. What's it look like and how is the project going?
The Alabama Legislature is considering no less than 18 bills that will restrict where sex offenders live, how many sex offenders can live in one house and increase the penalties for committing crimes against children. Markeshia Ricks gives an overview of the bills.
Developers plan to answer the Cleburne County Industrial Board's questions about a proposed racing complex that has drawn the ire of potential neighbors. Andy Johns has this story.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Thursday in The Star
Check out Thursday's Anniston Star for these stories:
A bill from Rep. Lea Fite in the State Legislature this session could ensure that every entity that receives state, county or municipal money and flies the U.S. flag, fly a flag that’s manufactured and purchased in the United States. Markeshia Ricks has this story.
Markeshia also has a story about another bill: The bill, that purports to bolster agriculture in Alabama is pitting farmer against farmer.Supporters say the Family Farm Preservation Act would protect them from city slickers who want their land for subdivisions, while opposing farmers say it will leave them with no recourse to fight confined animal feeding operations (CAFOs).What they all agree on is the need to preserve farming in Alabama.
Calhoun County Coroner Pat Brown confirmed this morning that two bodies found Saturday in a burning Bancroft Avenue house were each shot multiple times and died before the fire.
Brown said the coroner's office was close to identifying one of the victims but was waiting for more information on the other.
Todd South meets with some local Girl Scouts as they celebrate the organization's 96th anniversary. What are local Scout troops doing to mark the occasion?
A bill from Rep. Lea Fite in the State Legislature this session could ensure that every entity that receives state, county or municipal money and flies the U.S. flag, fly a flag that’s manufactured and purchased in the United States. Markeshia Ricks has this story.
Markeshia also has a story about another bill: The bill, that purports to bolster agriculture in Alabama is pitting farmer against farmer.Supporters say the Family Farm Preservation Act would protect them from city slickers who want their land for subdivisions, while opposing farmers say it will leave them with no recourse to fight confined animal feeding operations (CAFOs).What they all agree on is the need to preserve farming in Alabama.
Calhoun County Coroner Pat Brown confirmed this morning that two bodies found Saturday in a burning Bancroft Avenue house were each shot multiple times and died before the fire.
Brown said the coroner's office was close to identifying one of the victims but was waiting for more information on the other.
Todd South meets with some local Girl Scouts as they celebrate the organization's 96th anniversary. What are local Scout troops doing to mark the occasion?
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Coming Wednesday in The Star
Check out Wednesday's Anniston Star for these stories:
A report from the Alabama School Journal shows Anniston Schools have the second highest legal fees in the state per pupil. What's behind those numbers? Dan Whisenhunt has this story.
The National Guard training center at McClellan hosted a "boss lift" - employees from the Guard members' civilian jobs were invited to come and see what they do on weekend drills, just a few weeks before some soldiers are set to deploy overseas. Todd South writes about the training. They'll be an online slideshow and video of the training, too.
The 19-year-old man sought by police in last week’s shooting death of Andre Patterson as he rode in a car on Gurnee Avenue, surrendered himself to police Tuesday afternoon.
Marekshia Ricks has an advance on two happenings in the Legistlature Wednesday: A House committee is taking up a bill that would make elections for Alabama judges non-partisan and a Senate committee will take up a bill relating to farming regulations.
A company that wants to run a multi-state gas pipeline through Oxford held a public meeting in the city. What did residents have to say?
A report from the Alabama School Journal shows Anniston Schools have the second highest legal fees in the state per pupil. What's behind those numbers? Dan Whisenhunt has this story.
The National Guard training center at McClellan hosted a "boss lift" - employees from the Guard members' civilian jobs were invited to come and see what they do on weekend drills, just a few weeks before some soldiers are set to deploy overseas. Todd South writes about the training. They'll be an online slideshow and video of the training, too.
The 19-year-old man sought by police in last week’s shooting death of Andre Patterson as he rode in a car on Gurnee Avenue, surrendered himself to police Tuesday afternoon.
Marekshia Ricks has an advance on two happenings in the Legistlature Wednesday: A House committee is taking up a bill that would make elections for Alabama judges non-partisan and a Senate committee will take up a bill relating to farming regulations.
A company that wants to run a multi-state gas pipeline through Oxford held a public meeting in the city. What did residents have to say?
Can you get this cake at a local bakery?
Next week is the fifth anniversary of the beginning of the U.S war in Iraq.
So, Star editors thought, why not bake a birthday cake for the war?
We have. On Sunday, as long as we don't eat it first, it'll be the centerpiece of The Star's Insight section. I hear rumors that it'll have candles of some sort, among other things.
By the way, click over to The Star's food blog -- Star Bite -- and see how our editors/chefs pulled this off.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Coming Tuesday in The Star
Honda’s plant in Lincoln will be the sole producer of the company’s Ridgeline pickups beginning in early 2009, executives and Gov. Bob Riley said today. Riley and company leaders showed off the Ridgeline’s 2008 model and made the announcement at a press conference at the plant Monday. For more about the Ridgeline, see Todd South's story.
School report card information for 2006-07 is out for two Calhoun County systems that held up the release of the cards over one issue: highly qualified teachers. Both systems disputed the information the state showed them before it printed the cards. Dan Whisenhunt has this story.
The Animal Shelter in Anniston is looking for dog food. the 175-200 dogs sheltered there could run out of food as soon as Wednesday. They're hoping the public will help with donations.
Hobson City and Piedmont city councils meet.
School report card information for 2006-07 is out for two Calhoun County systems that held up the release of the cards over one issue: highly qualified teachers. Both systems disputed the information the state showed them before it printed the cards. Dan Whisenhunt has this story.
The Animal Shelter in Anniston is looking for dog food. the 175-200 dogs sheltered there could run out of food as soon as Wednesday. They're hoping the public will help with donations.
Hobson City and Piedmont city councils meet.
Friday, March 07, 2008
This weekend in The Star
Check out this weekend's Anniston Star for these stories:
Saturday
Markeshia Ricks takes a look at local broadband initiatives - there are several around the state. How would they would fit into anything the state does.
A 19-year-old Anniston man was shot to death early Friday morning. Nick Cenegy has this story.
Dan Whisenhunt stopped by a “Math in Motion” dance presentation for Saks Elementary School students. What was the performance like?
Saturday afternoon at the Birmingham Museum of Art, Donoho School 8th grader Tate Thomas will attempt to break the county’s spelling drought. Todd South will tell you about the competition and also about the last Calhoun County winner - Ray Crocker, who won the statewide title in 1988.
We'll have video online of the Friday night Pinewood Derby.
On Sunday:
With lots of national news about the foreclosure crisis and how it has affected the national economy, what's the local mortgage and foreclosure landscape look like? The numbers are rising, but experts say it's much less dire than in other parts of the country.
Todd South went to the statewide spelling bee in Birmingham and will have a story on how local students did.
Results are in from the latest flyovers looking at pine beetle infestation. Last time we were at epidemic levels in Talladega, Clay and Randolph counties. How are we now?
George Smith has a profile of Cora Saxon, who at 100 years old is still going strong. Cora is 100 She is known all over the South as The Candy Queen from the Saxon Candy Kitchens. She and her husband started in their kitchen in Alexandria.
Saturday
Markeshia Ricks takes a look at local broadband initiatives - there are several around the state. How would they would fit into anything the state does.
A 19-year-old Anniston man was shot to death early Friday morning. Nick Cenegy has this story.
Dan Whisenhunt stopped by a “Math in Motion” dance presentation for Saks Elementary School students. What was the performance like?
Saturday afternoon at the Birmingham Museum of Art, Donoho School 8th grader Tate Thomas will attempt to break the county’s spelling drought. Todd South will tell you about the competition and also about the last Calhoun County winner - Ray Crocker, who won the statewide title in 1988.
We'll have video online of the Friday night Pinewood Derby.
On Sunday:
With lots of national news about the foreclosure crisis and how it has affected the national economy, what's the local mortgage and foreclosure landscape look like? The numbers are rising, but experts say it's much less dire than in other parts of the country.
Todd South went to the statewide spelling bee in Birmingham and will have a story on how local students did.
Results are in from the latest flyovers looking at pine beetle infestation. Last time we were at epidemic levels in Talladega, Clay and Randolph counties. How are we now?
George Smith has a profile of Cora Saxon, who at 100 years old is still going strong. Cora is 100 She is known all over the South as The Candy Queen from the Saxon Candy Kitchens. She and her husband started in their kitchen in Alexandria.
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Thursday in The Star
Coming Thursday in The Star:
The Vagina Monologues are coming to Anniston. Want to know what the Monologues are all about? Read Shawn Ryan's story.
Once again, proponents and opponents of reforming Alabama’s 1901 Constitution made their pilgrimage to Montgomery to plead their cases. This year, like last, proponents of constitutional reform won the battle, but it remains to be seen if this year they can win the war. Members of the House Constitution and Elections Committee voted 9-4 to give a favorable report on a bill that calls for allowing a statewide vote on a constitutional convention. Markeshia Ricks has this story.
A national study finds that there are reasons the flu takes place in winter. What are they? Matt Kasper talks with some local folks about the study and what it means.
We've got full coverage of the CSEPP training today, including a story, video and photos.
The Vagina Monologues are coming to Anniston. Want to know what the Monologues are all about? Read Shawn Ryan's story.
Once again, proponents and opponents of reforming Alabama’s 1901 Constitution made their pilgrimage to Montgomery to plead their cases. This year, like last, proponents of constitutional reform won the battle, but it remains to be seen if this year they can win the war. Members of the House Constitution and Elections Committee voted 9-4 to give a favorable report on a bill that calls for allowing a statewide vote on a constitutional convention. Markeshia Ricks has this story.
A national study finds that there are reasons the flu takes place in winter. What are they? Matt Kasper talks with some local folks about the study and what it means.
We've got full coverage of the CSEPP training today, including a story, video and photos.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Wednesday in The Star
Check out Wednesday's Anniston Star for these stories:
Schools were delayed and everyone hunkered down with the threat of severe weather looming this morning. What hit Alabama? And what kind of weather is on the way? Andy Johns will let you know.
The Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program holds annual graded training all morning Wednesday. Todd South will tell you what that's all about.
George Smith writes about Frances and Melvin Woodruff of Lineville . . . married 57 years, now in a second retirement, after working 37 years at Higgins Slacks (til plant closed down), have worked the last 15 or so for the Lineville Nutrition Center, she as manager, he as van driver. . . both retired again Jan. 4.
We'll also have the final part of Editor at large John Fleming's series on the FCC and media ownership rules.
Schools were delayed and everyone hunkered down with the threat of severe weather looming this morning. What hit Alabama? And what kind of weather is on the way? Andy Johns will let you know.
The Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program holds annual graded training all morning Wednesday. Todd South will tell you what that's all about.
George Smith writes about Frances and Melvin Woodruff of Lineville . . . married 57 years, now in a second retirement, after working 37 years at Higgins Slacks (til plant closed down), have worked the last 15 or so for the Lineville Nutrition Center, she as manager, he as van driver. . . both retired again Jan. 4.
We'll also have the final part of Editor at large John Fleming's series on the FCC and media ownership rules.
Monday, March 03, 2008
Tuesday in The Star
Coming Tuesday in The Star:
Oxford’s school board approved a $6.2 million contract for construction of its new “freshman academy building” at a special meeting Monday.The contract went to Birmingham’s McCrory Building Company. The 35,000-square-foot academy, part of which will be shaped like an octagon, will be a separate “school within a school” for the high school’s roughly 300 freshmen students. Dan Whisenhunt has this story.
Dan also has a story about local students participating in “Read Across America,” a national event promoted by the National Education Association. In addition to celebrating their love of reading, children also celebrate the birthday of Dr. Seuss.
There may be severe weather headed our way and there's also colder temps on tap...and even snow. Local schools are delaying the start of the school day tomorrow by two hours because of the threat of severe weather.
Oxford’s school board approved a $6.2 million contract for construction of its new “freshman academy building” at a special meeting Monday.The contract went to Birmingham’s McCrory Building Company. The 35,000-square-foot academy, part of which will be shaped like an octagon, will be a separate “school within a school” for the high school’s roughly 300 freshmen students. Dan Whisenhunt has this story.
Dan also has a story about local students participating in “Read Across America,” a national event promoted by the National Education Association. In addition to celebrating their love of reading, children also celebrate the birthday of Dr. Seuss.
There may be severe weather headed our way and there's also colder temps on tap...and even snow. Local schools are delaying the start of the school day tomorrow by two hours because of the threat of severe weather.
How's it look?
Notes from Monday morning’s new-look Star.
Carol of Weaver and Skip of Oxford were two of several callers unhappy that the new format of the crossword puzzle made it too difficult to read. We agree. According to Vice President for Operations Ed Fowler, that problem will be fixed by Tuesday’s edition.
A number of callers and e-mailers quibbled with the changes to the TV listings page. Kathryn of Anniston says she'll miss the cable new channel listings.
While one caller who did not identify herself complained about the new type face, many others were pleased with it.
Cathy writes:
Thanks, Cathy. Many hands were involved in this effort, but Assistant News Editor Lora Reynolds deserves a special mention as the ringleader of the changeover.
Not everyone was so pleased. John writes:
We don't like anyone calling readers "morons." Sounds like something Bill O'Reilly would do.
Another Bill (we assume) weighs in:
The Birmingham News is a fine paper, no doubt. Ditto the Wall Street Journal. But I can't find a story in today's editions of the News or the Journal about the Calhoun County schools that will soon join the state's successful Alabama Math and Science Technology Initiative (AMSTI). By the way don't miss The Star's video that accompanies the story. It serves as a guide to one small way that AMSTI works.
Today's Star includes a full page of political news in advance of Tuesday's primary elections, a smartly done AP story on a looming credit crisis, a comprehensive examination of the nation's juvenile detention system complete with large full-color map illustrating the issue's scope and a thorough report on the world and nation.
Oh, we shouldn't leave off the second part of John Fleming's four-part series on how federal communications policies have made an impact on our local market and The Star's editorial on local school districts' track record hiring minority teachers.
Then there's conservative columnist George Will's tribute to the recently departed William F. Buckley. It's a nice companion to the well-done piece written by JSU professor Christopher Westley in Sunday's Insight section.
I could go on, but I think you get the point.
Carol of Weaver and Skip of Oxford were two of several callers unhappy that the new format of the crossword puzzle made it too difficult to read. We agree. According to Vice President for Operations Ed Fowler, that problem will be fixed by Tuesday’s edition.
A number of callers and e-mailers quibbled with the changes to the TV listings page. Kathryn of Anniston says she'll miss the cable new channel listings.
While one caller who did not identify herself complained about the new type face, many others were pleased with it.
Cathy writes:
The new design looks great! It's cleaner, crisper, and just looks much better overall--and I wasn't unhappy with the old look. But I do especially like the new section heads--Sports and Coffee Break in today's edition, which I assume will be carried on for the other sections later in the weekly lineup. I always think the design and layout are the most fun part of editing any publication, so kudos to
whomever did all that. Keep him/her/them on the payroll!
Thanks, Cathy. Many hands were involved in this effort, but Assistant News Editor Lora Reynolds deserves a special mention as the ringleader of the changeover.
Not everyone was so pleased. John writes:
The "relatively static cable news channels" are the only fare saving tv these days! Soap Net and Speed channel?! You've started the trend...dumbing down your newspaper to the morons who would watch this stuff.
Still waiting for Bill O'Reilly's weekly editorial column to appear in your paper. C'mon Davis, give us another perspective of the news, not the one-sided slant given now.
We don't like anyone calling readers "morons." Sounds like something Bill O'Reilly would do.
Another Bill (we assume) weighs in:
Sounds like another excuse for trimming paper size, cost and more importantly content to me. A front page that has virtually became an index; as opposed to lead articles in the national news. Articles within the paper is oft times found to be old news when compared to the Birmingham paper or Wall Street journal. A whole page of TV listings, give me a break, I seem to remember that each Friday you publish a weeks content of TV in a pull out.
I think the Anniston Star should change it's name to the Anniston "Grit." We got about as much news in the weekly of old for a dime.
The Birmingham News is a fine paper, no doubt. Ditto the Wall Street Journal. But I can't find a story in today's editions of the News or the Journal about the Calhoun County schools that will soon join the state's successful Alabama Math and Science Technology Initiative (AMSTI). By the way don't miss The Star's video that accompanies the story. It serves as a guide to one small way that AMSTI works.
Today's Star includes a full page of political news in advance of Tuesday's primary elections, a smartly done AP story on a looming credit crisis, a comprehensive examination of the nation's juvenile detention system complete with large full-color map illustrating the issue's scope and a thorough report on the world and nation.
Oh, we shouldn't leave off the second part of John Fleming's four-part series on how federal communications policies have made an impact on our local market and The Star's editorial on local school districts' track record hiring minority teachers.
Then there's conservative columnist George Will's tribute to the recently departed William F. Buckley. It's a nice companion to the well-done piece written by JSU professor Christopher Westley in Sunday's Insight section.
I could go on, but I think you get the point.
Notice anything different?
Notice anything different with today’s paper? The changes are obvious enough.
The newspaper’s width has been narrowed to conform with what is becoming the industry’s 24-inch standard. Also, we’re using new typefaces in our headlines and stories; we believe these changes will make the paper more readable.
We’ve also improved our television listings page, replacing the relatively static cable news channels with networks offering varied programming, including the Speed Channel, the Science Channel and SoapNet.
Got any feedback? Drop me a line at either 256-235-3540 or bdavis@annistonstar.com.
-- Bob Davis, Editor
Friday, February 29, 2008
That close to finding McClellan history
I'll try to keep this brief.
A few weeks ago, I wrote a column about the need for a Fort McClellan museum. It's something I believe passionately about, though I have little confidence that the biggest two issues -- finding a willing investor and acquiring the needed memorabilia -- could be overcome.
But that's not what I am writing about.
In my column, I mentioned that Miki Schneider of the Joint Powers Authority has a dog tag on her desk. The tag was pulled from a Fort McClellan landfill. For her, the tag has a strong sentimental value because it shows the need to preserve the former fort's history.
The name on the tag, which I wrote about, is George Jones, a Baptist with O-positive blood. We know nothing about the soldier.
A few days after my column was published, I received an e-mail from someone who said they had a family member -- named George Jones, of course -- who was stationed at Fort McClellan decades ago. That George Jones is now dead, unfortunately, but his family was trying to locate his Social Security number to see if the dog tag was his.
Thus, for a few days I had to wait to see if we'd found a real needle in the haystack.
We didn't. When his family found his SS number, it did not match the one on the dog tag on Schneider's desk.
We were that close. But I guess we'll keep trying.
A few weeks ago, I wrote a column about the need for a Fort McClellan museum. It's something I believe passionately about, though I have little confidence that the biggest two issues -- finding a willing investor and acquiring the needed memorabilia -- could be overcome.
But that's not what I am writing about.
In my column, I mentioned that Miki Schneider of the Joint Powers Authority has a dog tag on her desk. The tag was pulled from a Fort McClellan landfill. For her, the tag has a strong sentimental value because it shows the need to preserve the former fort's history.
The name on the tag, which I wrote about, is George Jones, a Baptist with O-positive blood. We know nothing about the soldier.
A few days after my column was published, I received an e-mail from someone who said they had a family member -- named George Jones, of course -- who was stationed at Fort McClellan decades ago. That George Jones is now dead, unfortunately, but his family was trying to locate his Social Security number to see if the dog tag was his.
Thus, for a few days I had to wait to see if we'd found a real needle in the haystack.
We didn't. When his family found his SS number, it did not match the one on the dog tag on Schneider's desk.
We were that close. But I guess we'll keep trying.
Coming Sunday in Insight
Gov. Riley's pre-K program has received a ton of ink since he began stumping across the state for it in recent months. On Sunday, we're giving it another ton of ink. But it's worth it.
This weekend in The Star
Check out this weekend's Star for these stories:
On Saturday:
Wadley's disputed interim police chief was arrested Thursday by the Alabama Bureau of Investigation. Marc Green, a Wadley police officer whom the town’s mayor called the interim police chief until Monday, has been charged with first-degree theft and third-degree burglary in connection with a December break-in at Stephen’s Station on Alabama 22, according to Randolph County District Attorney Paul Jones. Green was appointed interim police chief in December, but the town council replaced him on Feb. 19. Andy Johns has this story.
The Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind is celebrating 150 years Friday. The Blind Boys of Alabama will be on hand, their first visit to Talladega in 60 years.
Cleburne County Industrial Authority folks are visiting a Montgomery race track this weekend. They will get to see for themselves what they could expect if George Howard Racing built a racing complex in Heflin.
On Sunday:
The start of a four-part series by John Fleming, Star editor at large, taking a look at local ownership of broadcast media, the FCC's attempts to encourage it, the market's habit of preventing it, and the vanishing practice of local broadcast news.
The Anniston Board of Education has established a committee to look at ways to save money. Any ideas? And where do school systems normally look to trim their budgets?
There's a burned-out home in Oxford that has at least one resident, a shaggy black dog. It won't leave the house, but no one knows who the owners are. One woman has taken pity on the dog and is leaving food, and shelter, for it.
How do you judge a dairy cow? Andy Johns will explain.
And on Monday:
The Alabama Math and Science Initiave is expanding to more local schools. How does it work?
Part II of John Fleming's look at the FCC and local broadcasting.
On Saturday:
Wadley's disputed interim police chief was arrested Thursday by the Alabama Bureau of Investigation. Marc Green, a Wadley police officer whom the town’s mayor called the interim police chief until Monday, has been charged with first-degree theft and third-degree burglary in connection with a December break-in at Stephen’s Station on Alabama 22, according to Randolph County District Attorney Paul Jones. Green was appointed interim police chief in December, but the town council replaced him on Feb. 19. Andy Johns has this story.
The Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind is celebrating 150 years Friday. The Blind Boys of Alabama will be on hand, their first visit to Talladega in 60 years.
Cleburne County Industrial Authority folks are visiting a Montgomery race track this weekend. They will get to see for themselves what they could expect if George Howard Racing built a racing complex in Heflin.
On Sunday:
The start of a four-part series by John Fleming, Star editor at large, taking a look at local ownership of broadcast media, the FCC's attempts to encourage it, the market's habit of preventing it, and the vanishing practice of local broadcast news.
The Anniston Board of Education has established a committee to look at ways to save money. Any ideas? And where do school systems normally look to trim their budgets?
There's a burned-out home in Oxford that has at least one resident, a shaggy black dog. It won't leave the house, but no one knows who the owners are. One woman has taken pity on the dog and is leaving food, and shelter, for it.
How do you judge a dairy cow? Andy Johns will explain.
And on Monday:
The Alabama Math and Science Initiave is expanding to more local schools. How does it work?
Part II of John Fleming's look at the FCC and local broadcasting.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Friday in The Star
Outsourcing services to save money is not unheard of at Jacksonville State University or other college campuses, but it’s something people on campus could hear more about soon. JSU has contracts for both its food service and its bookstores; both save the university money, university officials say. At January’s board of trustees meeting, whether the university should consider outsourcing its janitorial and maintenance services was discussed.
It's Leap Day. Andy Johns will tell you all about why we have Leap Years and will talk to folks about what it's like to be a "leaper" or someone born on Feb. 29.
A local representative has a bill in committee that would give qualifying Alabama veterans free college tuition. State Rep. Randy Wood, R-Anniston, has sponsored a bill to give qualifying Alabama residents who have served on active duty free tuition at any state college, university, technical college, community college or junior college.
Is quilting making a comeback? Todd South talks with some local quilters and a local store that offers quilting lessons about the craft's increasing popularity.
It's Leap Day. Andy Johns will tell you all about why we have Leap Years and will talk to folks about what it's like to be a "leaper" or someone born on Feb. 29.
A local representative has a bill in committee that would give qualifying Alabama veterans free college tuition. State Rep. Randy Wood, R-Anniston, has sponsored a bill to give qualifying Alabama residents who have served on active duty free tuition at any state college, university, technical college, community college or junior college.
Is quilting making a comeback? Todd South talks with some local quilters and a local store that offers quilting lessons about the craft's increasing popularity.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Thursday in The Star
Coming Thursday in The Anniston Star:
The state of Alabama gave out millions in grant money to public schools and libraries this year, but two local legislators say political interests muddied the process. Additionally, a communication error might have caused some local school systems to apply for less money than they could have received. Some school systems in other counties got much more money than Calhoun County’s local K-12 schools when the state Education Department announced the millions in grants this month. Dan Whisenhunt has this story.
An Oxford school board member from Hobson City is calling for increased attention to the number of minority faculty. This comes soon after a federal judge chided Calhoun County Schools for backsliding on its percentage of minority teachers. How many minority teachers should local school systems have and why aren't they there? Dan examines this issue.
Megan Nichols spent a day with Calhoun County Animal Control. What is a day in their life like?
We'll check in to see how clean-up after Tuesday's storm went, including electricity service.
The state of Alabama gave out millions in grant money to public schools and libraries this year, but two local legislators say political interests muddied the process. Additionally, a communication error might have caused some local school systems to apply for less money than they could have received. Some school systems in other counties got much more money than Calhoun County’s local K-12 schools when the state Education Department announced the millions in grants this month. Dan Whisenhunt has this story.
An Oxford school board member from Hobson City is calling for increased attention to the number of minority faculty. This comes soon after a federal judge chided Calhoun County Schools for backsliding on its percentage of minority teachers. How many minority teachers should local school systems have and why aren't they there? Dan examines this issue.
Megan Nichols spent a day with Calhoun County Animal Control. What is a day in their life like?
We'll check in to see how clean-up after Tuesday's storm went, including electricity service.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Wednesday in The Star
Check out Wednesday's Anniston Star for these stories:
We'll have full coverage of the early morning storms that swept through the area Tuesday - what damage we saw here, the status of power outages, and how the cleanup went, including a look at how the storms affected local schools (a portion of Saks High School's roof was blown off).
The final results, including toxicology tests, are in in the case of Ben Stanford. What do the reports say?
Megan Nichols writes about a new round of PCB lawsuits expected to be in court this fall.
Dan Whisenhunt looks at the Next Start scholarship fund. The Legislature is taking up legislation to re-start the scholarship program.
We'll have full coverage of the early morning storms that swept through the area Tuesday - what damage we saw here, the status of power outages, and how the cleanup went, including a look at how the storms affected local schools (a portion of Saks High School's roof was blown off).
The final results, including toxicology tests, are in in the case of Ben Stanford. What do the reports say?
Megan Nichols writes about a new round of PCB lawsuits expected to be in court this fall.
Dan Whisenhunt looks at the Next Start scholarship fund. The Legislature is taking up legislation to re-start the scholarship program.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Tuesday in The Star
Check out Tuesday's Star for these stories:
The county extension service hosted a healthy soul food tasting. Yum. Bill Edwards was there and can tell you all about it.
Crews have cleared land just south of Greenleaf Street in Jacksonville for a site that will soon be home to the city's first chain hotel. Matt Kasper has this story.
City Councilman Ben Little has proposed declaring a house that was the site of the city's most recent homicide and other crimes to be a public nuisance. Megan Nichols writes about this proposal.
Markeshia Ricks takes a look at the fate of bills that have cleared the Alabama House. They could die an early death because the Senate hasn't passed any bills yet.
Hobson City, Lincoln, Piedmont and Jacksonville councils meet.
The county extension service hosted a healthy soul food tasting. Yum. Bill Edwards was there and can tell you all about it.
Crews have cleared land just south of Greenleaf Street in Jacksonville for a site that will soon be home to the city's first chain hotel. Matt Kasper has this story.
City Councilman Ben Little has proposed declaring a house that was the site of the city's most recent homicide and other crimes to be a public nuisance. Megan Nichols writes about this proposal.
Markeshia Ricks takes a look at the fate of bills that have cleared the Alabama House. They could die an early death because the Senate hasn't passed any bills yet.
Hobson City, Lincoln, Piedmont and Jacksonville councils meet.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
A few reads for Black History Month
In honor of Black History Month, Bookshelf features a few books for kids and adults. One article is a series of recommendations about great books for kids to read on this topic. The other piece is a review of a novel just published in honor of the centennial of Richard Wright's birthday. The late writer left behind an unfinished novel, a crime novel called A Father's Law, and his daughter has now published it. It does leave a bit to be desired, since it was a raw work, but it is a valuable piece of information for those who would like to know more about, and hear more from, Wright.
Steve Whitton reviews All Shall Be Well; and All Shall Be Well; and All Manner of Things Shall Be Well, by Tod Wodicka. The title itself takes up half the space I can mention about it, but Whitton says it's a great debut novel "about family and the harsh terrain all families traverse."
Last, I review a memoir by a twenty-something woman whose lifelong dream has been to ... yes, it's true -- be a princess. Never mind that she grew up the daughter of hippie parents in small-town Colorado. She taught herself how to be a proper English lady and clawed her way to Great Britain as fast as she could. It's almost anachronistic and anti-feminist, but it's pretty darn entertaining in spots.
Steve Whitton reviews All Shall Be Well; and All Shall Be Well; and All Manner of Things Shall Be Well, by Tod Wodicka. The title itself takes up half the space I can mention about it, but Whitton says it's a great debut novel "about family and the harsh terrain all families traverse."
Last, I review a memoir by a twenty-something woman whose lifelong dream has been to ... yes, it's true -- be a princess. Never mind that she grew up the daughter of hippie parents in small-town Colorado. She taught herself how to be a proper English lady and clawed her way to Great Britain as fast as she could. It's almost anachronistic and anti-feminist, but it's pretty darn entertaining in spots.
Friday, February 22, 2008
We're still fighting the Civil War
Yep, we've got more letters to the editor about the Civil War, black Union soldiers, and whether slavery had anything to do with the War for Southern Independence.
Why?
A few weeks ago, The Star's editorial board had the audacity -- sorry, Barack -- to write an editorial about a new monument at the Lawrence County Courthouse that honors black Union soldiers from that county.
People didn't like what we wrote.
And people didn't like what other people wrote about what we wrote about.
Got it?
Basically, people are in a lather over this. So we're publishing another set of letters on this mess on Sunday.
Read up.
Why?
A few weeks ago, The Star's editorial board had the audacity -- sorry, Barack -- to write an editorial about a new monument at the Lawrence County Courthouse that honors black Union soldiers from that county.
People didn't like what we wrote.
And people didn't like what other people wrote about what we wrote about.
Got it?
Basically, people are in a lather over this. So we're publishing another set of letters on this mess on Sunday.
Read up.
Coming Sunday in Insight
It's a full-out examination of the immigration debate in Alabama. Regardless of which side of this issue you reside on, Sunday's Insight section will be worth your time.
Oh, and we've also got a pretty entertaining -- and scary -- read about Americans and their intelligence: Is it is good as it once was?
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Friday in The Star
Check out these stories in The Star Friday:
What's it like for the fans of the Regional High School Basketball Tournament? What are their traditions and what's the scene like? Dan Whisenhunt has this story. Also, there will be lots of coverage of the basketball tournament in the newspaper and online.
The Mount Cheaha 50K is this coming Saturday. This local ultra-race event hosted by the Anniston Runners Club starts at Porter's Gap in Talladega and participants run in extreme conditions on trails to the highest point in Alabama - Cheaha State Park. Joe Medley will tell you all you need to know about the race.
Markeshia Ricks will let you know what happened at today's public hearing on licensing midwives for practice outside hospitals.
A warrant has been issued for the arrest of a suspect in Sunday's homicide in Anniston.
What's it like for the fans of the Regional High School Basketball Tournament? What are their traditions and what's the scene like? Dan Whisenhunt has this story. Also, there will be lots of coverage of the basketball tournament in the newspaper and online.
The Mount Cheaha 50K is this coming Saturday. This local ultra-race event hosted by the Anniston Runners Club starts at Porter's Gap in Talladega and participants run in extreme conditions on trails to the highest point in Alabama - Cheaha State Park. Joe Medley will tell you all you need to know about the race.
Markeshia Ricks will let you know what happened at today's public hearing on licensing midwives for practice outside hospitals.
A warrant has been issued for the arrest of a suspect in Sunday's homicide in Anniston.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Thursday in The Star
Check out Thursday's Anniston Star for these stories:
Three bills in the Alabama Legistlature could affect local wineries if passed. Megan Nichols looks at these bills and what they might mean for local folks.
The Calhoun County Sheriff's office has new GPS tracking devices. What do they use them for and what can they do? Nick Cenegy writes about this.
The White Plains Wildcats take to the basketball court tonight without senior Bradey Monroe, who died this morning in a cancer clinic in Houston.
We'll also have full coverage of the ongoing Regional Basketball Tournament.
Three bills in the Alabama Legistlature could affect local wineries if passed. Megan Nichols looks at these bills and what they might mean for local folks.
The Calhoun County Sheriff's office has new GPS tracking devices. What do they use them for and what can they do? Nick Cenegy writes about this.
The White Plains Wildcats take to the basketball court tonight without senior Bradey Monroe, who died this morning in a cancer clinic in Houston.
We'll also have full coverage of the ongoing Regional Basketball Tournament.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Coming Wednesday in The Star
Check out Wednesday's Anniston Star for these stories:
Markeshia Ricks will introduce readers to Alabama's super delegates. Who are they and have they picked a presidential candidate to support yet?
For the second time in 14 months, Jacksonville State University is refusing to release athletic department records requested by The Anniston Star. Since April 2007, The Star has repeatedly sought — under the Alabama Open Records Act — the results of the school’s athletic department drug-testing program. Star Sports Writer Al Muskewitz will have a story on this.
In print and online, we will have all sorts of coverage of the High School Regional Basketball Tournament - scores, video, photos, podcasts and articles.
George Smith will profile Bedford Carter, the man in charge of renovating the chapel at McClellan for Grace Fellowship.
The West Anniston Community Development Corporation showcased its first renovated home on Walnut Avenue. Megan Nichols has this story.
Markeshia Ricks will introduce readers to Alabama's super delegates. Who are they and have they picked a presidential candidate to support yet?
For the second time in 14 months, Jacksonville State University is refusing to release athletic department records requested by The Anniston Star. Since April 2007, The Star has repeatedly sought — under the Alabama Open Records Act — the results of the school’s athletic department drug-testing program. Star Sports Writer Al Muskewitz will have a story on this.
In print and online, we will have all sorts of coverage of the High School Regional Basketball Tournament - scores, video, photos, podcasts and articles.
George Smith will profile Bedford Carter, the man in charge of renovating the chapel at McClellan for Grace Fellowship.
The West Anniston Community Development Corporation showcased its first renovated home on Walnut Avenue. Megan Nichols has this story.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Coming Tuesday in The Star
Check out Tuesday's Anniston Star for these stories:
What affect did the storms on Sunday have around here? The storms dumped more than an inch of rain in Calhoun County and blew part of the roof off Red’s Catfish on Catfish Road in Mellow Valley in Clay County. Emergency officials in Randolph County reported widespread damage to outbuildings, sheds and some roofs. A weather service crew was scheduled to visit Randolph and Clay counties today to determine whether a tornado or straight-line winds caused the damage there. Andy Johns has this story.
Anniston police are searching for a man in his 40s identified as a suspect in an early Sunday morning homicide on the 300 block of K Street. A resident heard shots, walked outside to investigate, and found Jerry Lewis Turner, 54, of Anniston, on the ground, according to police reports. Calhoun County Coroner Pat Brown said Turner was pronounced dead at the scene around 5 a.m., but he stopped short of identifying the cause of death.
Matt Kasper writes about the Piedmont Drive-In. The owner of theater, Cecil Quarles, says he is looking to sell.
What affect did the storms on Sunday have around here? The storms dumped more than an inch of rain in Calhoun County and blew part of the roof off Red’s Catfish on Catfish Road in Mellow Valley in Clay County. Emergency officials in Randolph County reported widespread damage to outbuildings, sheds and some roofs. A weather service crew was scheduled to visit Randolph and Clay counties today to determine whether a tornado or straight-line winds caused the damage there. Andy Johns has this story.
Anniston police are searching for a man in his 40s identified as a suspect in an early Sunday morning homicide on the 300 block of K Street. A resident heard shots, walked outside to investigate, and found Jerry Lewis Turner, 54, of Anniston, on the ground, according to police reports. Calhoun County Coroner Pat Brown said Turner was pronounced dead at the scene around 5 a.m., but he stopped short of identifying the cause of death.
Matt Kasper writes about the Piedmont Drive-In. The owner of theater, Cecil Quarles, says he is looking to sell.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Books on Founders and Fido
In connection with Presidents Day, the Bookshelf page is featuring a review of a book about the Founding Fathers, called American Creation. Among its interesting information is the author's revelation that the fathers of our great land didn't necessarily intend to start a revolution, at least not at the very beginning. At the First and Second Continental Congress, they were hoping to attain more local control from England, but not sever ties completely. But we all know how that ended up working out.
In other topics, local veterinarian Barry Nicholls reviews Merle's Door, about a dog's wonderful freedom in the mountains of Colorado. The owner's/author's dog door allows Merle to come and go and run free in the fresh air and to just all around be a dog. Dr. Nicholls has some opinions about how that can work out, though.
I review a book called The Heroines, an incredibly clever idea for a book. A woman runs a bed and breakfast that regularly has guests who are heroines of classic novels. There are some really fun, original spots in the book. However, it veers a bit too far from its great premise and loses a bit in translation. Still a good read, but not as great as I think it could have been.
Read more in tomorrow's Bookshelf.
In other topics, local veterinarian Barry Nicholls reviews Merle's Door, about a dog's wonderful freedom in the mountains of Colorado. The owner's/author's dog door allows Merle to come and go and run free in the fresh air and to just all around be a dog. Dr. Nicholls has some opinions about how that can work out, though.
I review a book called The Heroines, an incredibly clever idea for a book. A woman runs a bed and breakfast that regularly has guests who are heroines of classic novels. There are some really fun, original spots in the book. However, it veers a bit too far from its great premise and loses a bit in translation. Still a good read, but not as great as I think it could have been.
Read more in tomorrow's Bookshelf.
Letters worth reading
It's been an interesting few days in the letters to the editor department of The Star.
On Thursday, we published a collection of fiery letters concerning the installation of a monument in Lawrence County that honors black Union soldiers in the Civil War. Needless to say, Star readers who still think Gen. Lee's gonna save the South took issue with a few things and filled our inbox with responses.
On Sunday, we have a collection of letters debating the necessity of the death penalty in Alabama. The letters are quite good -- emotional and heartfelt. They're worth a read.
Make sure you check them out Sunday, in print or online. Go to our opinions page once they're published on Sunday morning. A hint: One letter is from a local woman whose sister and brother-in-law were murdered in 1986. It's a must-read this weekend.
On Thursday, we published a collection of fiery letters concerning the installation of a monument in Lawrence County that honors black Union soldiers in the Civil War. Needless to say, Star readers who still think Gen. Lee's gonna save the South took issue with a few things and filled our inbox with responses.
On Sunday, we have a collection of letters debating the necessity of the death penalty in Alabama. The letters are quite good -- emotional and heartfelt. They're worth a read.
Make sure you check them out Sunday, in print or online. Go to our opinions page once they're published on Sunday morning. A hint: One letter is from a local woman whose sister and brother-in-law were murdered in 1986. It's a must-read this weekend.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Friday in The Star
Check out Friday's Star for the following stories:
State Sen. Hank Erwin has introduced a pair of bills in the Legislature that would allow some students and professors at state colleges to carry firearms on campus. What do campus police and administrators think of this idea? Dan Whisenhunt has this story.
Todd South has a wrap up of the Anniston Army Depot sustainability conference. What can the depot do to sustain jobs, output, growth and the evironment?
Todd also writes about the veterans affairs travel allowance, which was recently raised for the first time in 30 years.
A bill to subject the JPA to the state's Open Meetings Act cleared the House. Now it's on to the Senate. Markeshia Ricks covers this story.
State Sen. Hank Erwin has introduced a pair of bills in the Legislature that would allow some students and professors at state colleges to carry firearms on campus. What do campus police and administrators think of this idea? Dan Whisenhunt has this story.
Todd South has a wrap up of the Anniston Army Depot sustainability conference. What can the depot do to sustain jobs, output, growth and the evironment?
Todd also writes about the veterans affairs travel allowance, which was recently raised for the first time in 30 years.
A bill to subject the JPA to the state's Open Meetings Act cleared the House. Now it's on to the Senate. Markeshia Ricks covers this story.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Coming Thursday in The Star
Check out Thursday's Anniston Star for these stories:
Valentine's Day: What do singles or people who just hate the holiday do on this one day of the year when pink hearts and flowers can't be avoided? Megan Nichols talks with some of these folks to find out their feelings about Valentine's Day.
The city of Anniston released the full PCB report. Megan Nichols explains what's in the report.
An investigation has exonerated Anniston City Manager George Monk of all accusations leveled against him by the Rev. Dr. Freddy Rimpsey. Megan also has this story.
A child nutrition program is the closest thing schools have to a business; the program makes part of its money from its customers, the students. For Anniston City Schools, it’s a business that’s losing money, according to Child Nutrition Coordinator Debbie Prince. Dan Whisenhunt has this story.
Valentine's Day: What do singles or people who just hate the holiday do on this one day of the year when pink hearts and flowers can't be avoided? Megan Nichols talks with some of these folks to find out their feelings about Valentine's Day.
The city of Anniston released the full PCB report. Megan Nichols explains what's in the report.
An investigation has exonerated Anniston City Manager George Monk of all accusations leveled against him by the Rev. Dr. Freddy Rimpsey. Megan also has this story.
A child nutrition program is the closest thing schools have to a business; the program makes part of its money from its customers, the students. For Anniston City Schools, it’s a business that’s losing money, according to Child Nutrition Coordinator Debbie Prince. Dan Whisenhunt has this story.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Tuesday in The Star
Coming Tuesday in The Star:
Is the flu here and how bad is it? What are the symptoms and how can you prevent spreading it? Andy Johns tackles the flu.
Talladega College's president announced the cut of 17 jobs from the college’s work force in an effort to straighten out its finances. Dan Whisenhunt has this story.
Reformers pushing for a constitutional convention picked up a new ally in east Alabama this legislative session.Sen. Del Marsh, R-Anniston, is serving as a co-sponsor on a bill that would allow Alabama voters to decide whether they want to call a convention to rewrite the 1901 constitution. Markeshia Ricks also talks with other local legislators to see what they think about consitutional reform.
Weaver has lifted water restrictions. What about other municipalities and the county? Matt Kasper has this story.
Is the flu here and how bad is it? What are the symptoms and how can you prevent spreading it? Andy Johns tackles the flu.
Talladega College's president announced the cut of 17 jobs from the college’s work force in an effort to straighten out its finances. Dan Whisenhunt has this story.
Reformers pushing for a constitutional convention picked up a new ally in east Alabama this legislative session.Sen. Del Marsh, R-Anniston, is serving as a co-sponsor on a bill that would allow Alabama voters to decide whether they want to call a convention to rewrite the 1901 constitution. Markeshia Ricks also talks with other local legislators to see what they think about consitutional reform.
Weaver has lifted water restrictions. What about other municipalities and the county? Matt Kasper has this story.
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Coming Friday in The Star
Here's what we've got planned for Friday's Anniston Star:
Dan Whisenhunt talked with students and administrators at JSU about student fees. Fees have been suggested as a way to raise more money for the football program. A consultant also suggested the university consider fees for non-athletic programs. What do people think about those ideas?
Megan Nichols has a story about what Monsanto-area residents think about the Solutia landfill.
The state Legistlature is looking at setting up a toll road and bridge authority. Markeshia Ricks talks with legislators about that proposal.
Dan Whisenhunt talked with students and administrators at JSU about student fees. Fees have been suggested as a way to raise more money for the football program. A consultant also suggested the university consider fees for non-athletic programs. What do people think about those ideas?
Megan Nichols has a story about what Monsanto-area residents think about the Solutia landfill.
The state Legistlature is looking at setting up a toll road and bridge authority. Markeshia Ricks talks with legislators about that proposal.
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Thursday in The Star
Check out Thursday's Star for these stories:
John Fleming examines the impact of Alabama's evangelical voters in the presidential race. How will they vote in November?
Markeshia Ricks will have full coverage of Gov. Bob Riley's state of the state address.
Ohatchee cattle farmers are going up against a pack of five to 10 dogs which have killed at least four cows and two goats. Nick Cenegy has this story.
Dan Whisenhunt profiles Saks High School band director Gene Inglis who has been honored with a national award.
John Fleming examines the impact of Alabama's evangelical voters in the presidential race. How will they vote in November?
Markeshia Ricks will have full coverage of Gov. Bob Riley's state of the state address.
Ohatchee cattle farmers are going up against a pack of five to 10 dogs which have killed at least four cows and two goats. Nick Cenegy has this story.
Dan Whisenhunt profiles Saks High School band director Gene Inglis who has been honored with a national award.
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
Down here at the zoo
What an election night treat, courtesy of Deirdre Long.
These animals cookies look like political party symbols, the elephant for Republicans and the donkey for the Democrats.
Then again, it's getting late and punchiness may have set in.
It's a fact
The Star's presidential marker board is five times larger than Tim Russert's.
See for yourself.
Wednesday in The Star
Check out Wednesday's Star for these stories:
We'll have full presidential primary coverage, including local results for the Democrats and Republicans, a story about the turnout - who voted, how many and what was it like at the polling places - as well as a story about how the state of the economy factored into votes. They'll be video stories on our Web site, too, and a full round up of the results in the state and nation.
Markeshia Ricks will write about the first day of the legislative session and look ahead to the state of the state address.
Megan Nichols covers the JPA board meeting where the they discussed road issues.
And George Smith profiles Woodland Mayor Tim Prince.
We'll have full presidential primary coverage, including local results for the Democrats and Republicans, a story about the turnout - who voted, how many and what was it like at the polling places - as well as a story about how the state of the economy factored into votes. They'll be video stories on our Web site, too, and a full round up of the results in the state and nation.
Markeshia Ricks will write about the first day of the legislative session and look ahead to the state of the state address.
Megan Nichols covers the JPA board meeting where the they discussed road issues.
And George Smith profiles Woodland Mayor Tim Prince.
Monday, February 04, 2008
Coming Tuesday in The Star
Check out Tuesday's Star for these stories:
Due to bad market conditions, Solutia is having trouble getting promised financing from three banks. Megan Nichols has this story.
Dan Whisenhunt writes about a substance-abuse prevention group's kick off of a new program at Anniston Middle School.
Calhoun County Republicans are having their monthly meeting Monday. Todd South will be there to take the pulse of local GOP members before the Tuesday presidential primary. Who are they leaning toward and is there a consensus?
Markeshia Ricks has an advance on the opening of the legislative session Tuesday.
Due to bad market conditions, Solutia is having trouble getting promised financing from three banks. Megan Nichols has this story.
Dan Whisenhunt writes about a substance-abuse prevention group's kick off of a new program at Anniston Middle School.
Calhoun County Republicans are having their monthly meeting Monday. Todd South will be there to take the pulse of local GOP members before the Tuesday presidential primary. Who are they leaning toward and is there a consensus?
Markeshia Ricks has an advance on the opening of the legislative session Tuesday.
Saturday, February 02, 2008
What's your favorite book?
The Star's Bookshelf page, which is printed each Sunday, is trying something different in 2008.
Once a month, Bookshelf editor Cathy Carmode Lim will ask one of our regular contributors or staffers to re-read their favorite book. Anything's possible -- classic books, campy books, anything as long as they claim it as their favorite. The only catch is they must re-read it to see if they view it the same now as they did then.
The first installment of the feature appears in Sunday's Star. It comes from regular contributor Steven Whitton, a professor of English at Jacksonville State University, who has re-read The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.
On Sunday, see what you think.
Friday, February 01, 2008
No, it's not all about Hillary Clinton
An early look at Sunday's cover of the Insight section, which is devoted to the issue of women in politics -- women voters, women lawmakers, and women candidates.Check it out Sunday.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
