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BOE approves personnel recommendations Reid named RP interim
The Escambia County Board of Education considered and approved personnel recommendations by Superintendent John Knott at the regular BOE meeting Thursday, December 15. On motion by board member Coleman Wallace, the recommendation for temporary employment of Sandra Reid was held out for discussion in executive session. Reid has been filling the principal’s position at Rachel Patterson Elementary School since Stephanie Jackson resigned as principal in October. Reid has been also…
Inside the Statehouse
By Steve Flowers Historically speaking, Alabamians have been more interested in the governor’s race than presidential politics. For years, from 1876 to 1964, we were a totally Democratic state, more so out of tradition than philosophically. The hatred for the radical Republican Reconstruction shackles invoked on the South made an indelible mark on white southern voters. It was so instilled, that there are a good many stories told throughout the…
Christmas in Dixie: Not quite what it used to be
By Harvey H. (“Hardy”) Jackson Thanksgiving was hardly over when it began. Regional magazines – Southern Living and such – started arriving with detailed instructions on how to have a “traditional Southern Christmas.” Newspapers chime in with “Feature” articles on the topic. On Facebook and in chat groups, internet friends swap recipes and ideas, all in an effort to make sure what is done “down here” ain’t like what they…
The irony of righteous indignation
By Larry Lee When State Superintendent of Education Mike Sentance told the state school board Dec. 8 that the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Education had determined that the state’s high school graduation rate was inaccurate, reaction was swift and true to form. Members of the legislature who consistently oppose public education were quick to tell media that there should be consequences for  deceiving the public. (Would…