Viewpoints from 2012 - WALB.com, Albany News, Weather, Sports

Viewpoints from 2012

Scroll down to see Viewpoint editorials from WALB for 2012.

  • Viewpoints from 2012

  • Thursday, January 3 2013 4:00 PM EST2013-01-03 21:00:12 GMT
    We always knew that people in the Albany Metro area were good and generous people. What we didn't realize is just how generous and giving you really are. People in the Albany metro area give more of
    We always knew that people in the Albany Metro area were good and generous people. What we didn't realize is just how generous and giving you really are.

  • Monday, December 31 2012 4:00 PM EST2012-12-31 21:00:16 GMT
    As we begin the new year, we should also take time to reflect on the past year. How did your year go? Did you do the things you planned to do in 2012? Did your resolutions come true? Or were they pushed
    As we begin the new year, we should also take time to reflect on the past year. How did your year go? Did you do the things you planned to do in 2012?

  • Thursday, December 27 2012 10:39 AM EST2012-12-27 15:39:09 GMT
    It is such a shame that we must continue to publicly discuss the poor decisions made by the Dougherty County School System. Even when the board voted on the mutually agreed to termination of outgoing
    It is such a shame that we must continue to publicly discuss the poor decisions made by the Dougherty County School System.

  • Wednesday, December 26 2012 2:44 PM EST2012-12-26 19:44:37 GMT
    Albany City Commissioners recently gave the Flint Riverquarium $150,000 to remain open and at least have a chance to look for new private funding sources. Some said the city should give the Riverquarium
    Some said the city should give the Riverquarium nothing and let this beautiful and unique tourist attraction close after just eight years. Have those critics forgotten about the Albany Civic Center or Chehaw? Taxpayers have been underwriting both of those facilities for more than 30 years.

  • Thursday, December 20 2012 5:00 PM EST2012-12-20 22:00:22 GMT
    Valdosta has rightfully earned the nickname "Titletown," and Valdosta has another national title to celebrate. The Valdosta State Blazers defeated Winston-Salem State 35-7 to win the school's third NCAA

    It is time the University, its alumni, fans and the Valdosta-Lowndes County community begin working together to look at the feasibility of a move to the Division I level and long range plan to get there.

  • Tuesday, December 18 2012 4:53 PM EST2012-12-18 21:53:21 GMT
    The nation is still numb from the unspeakable horror that left 28 people dead in Newtown, Connecticut last week. As we learn more about the young man who created this carnage, and plunged a town into
    Mental illness isn't something that modern medicine can easily treat, and society tends to ignore… until something like Newtown happens.

  • Friday, December 14 2012 11:06 AM EST2012-12-14 16:06:38 GMT
    After years of record enrollment, the number of students at most schools in the University System of Georgia dropped this fall. Darton State College bucked that trend. Darton now has more than 6,400
    After years of record enrollment, the number of students at most schools in the University System of Georgia dropped this fall. Darton State College bucked that trend.

  • Tuesday, December 11 2012 1:24 PM EST2012-12-11 18:24:18 GMT
    Over Thanksgiving, there was a massive effort to help South Georgians who are struggling for enough wholesome food in hard economic times. The Second harvest Food bank really came through to help our
    They helped everyone have good meals around Thanksgiving, But they'll need donations to build back up supplies for the Christmas Holiday.

  • Thursday, December 6 2012 2:58 PM EST2012-12-06 19:58:04 GMT
    This is a Guest Editorial from retired federal auditor Robert Rehberg. Were you upset to learn we give free or reduced price lunches to school children whose parents make too much money? Did it upset
    This is a Guest Editorial from retired federal auditor Robert Rehberg. Were you upset to learn we give free or reduced price lunches to school children whose parents make too much money?

  • Tuesday, December 4 2012 5:56 PM EST2012-12-04 22:56:28 GMT
    Dr. Joshua Murfree's troubled tenure as Dougherty County's School Superintendent is finally coming to an end. Dr. Murfree and the school board worked together to work out an exit plan for him without
    It is encouraging that the DCSS asked the GA School Board Association, for help in evaluating qualified candidates for superintendent. But last time they hired the one ranked 34th on the list.

  • Thursday, November 29 2012 2:14 PM EST2012-11-29 19:14:27 GMT
    Our economy has been growing at a snail's pace for much too long. It is great to see so many people in the stores on Black Friday weekend. Retail buying is just the thing we need to help the economy
    There were times when crowds pushed and shoved to get that special bargain presumably to give to a loved one. Let's not forget the spirit of the season.

  • Tuesday, November 27 2012 1:53 PM EST2012-11-27 18:53:05 GMT
    150 Albany Water, Gas & Light employees were put in a financial bind last week when a payroll worker ran a reverse payroll. Instead of their checks being directly deposited into their bank accounts,
    Water, Gas, & Light employees were put in a financial bind last week when a payroll worker ran a reverse payroll. It's the second time it's happened-- at the hands of the same payroll fill-in worker.

  • Wednesday, November 21 2012 4:00 PM EST2012-11-21 21:00:25 GMT
    The heartbeat of the economy of South Georgia has always been tied to the rich soil and the products it yields. It's a $65 Billion chunk of the Georgia Economy. One in Seven working Georgians, work
    The heartbeat of the economy of South Georgia has always been tied to the rich soil and the products it yields. It's a $65 Billion chunk of the Georgia Economy. One in Seven working Georgians, work

  • Monday, November 19 2012 4:56 PM EST2012-11-19 21:56:09 GMT
    Recently, Albany downtown business owners, governmental entities, and citizens, who utilize the downtown post office facility, rallied and were able keep the postal facility open for six additional months.
    the United States Postal Service will host a public meeting November 20, at 3pm, in Albany Technical College's Kirkland Conference Center. Officials will outline plans and possibilities for the facility.

  • Thursday, November 15 2012 12:45 PM EST2012-11-15 17:45:32 GMT
    This year, More than 300 workers at the Albany Exchange Club Fair got an opportunity for free health care. Medical trailers were set up in the RV park across from the fairgrounds and treat workers during
    This year, More than 300 workers at the Albany Exchange Club Fair got an opportunity for free health care.

  • Tuesday, November 13 2012 11:56 AM EST2012-11-13 16:56:48 GMT
    As the results from last week's Presidential election were confirmed, it became obvious that U.S. Citizens were passionate, enthusiastic, and willing to go the distance to cast their ballots for our next
    As the results from last week's Presidential election were confirmed, it became obvious that U.S. Citizens were passionate, enthusiastic, and willing to go the distance to cast their ballots for our next president. 

  • Thursday, November 8 2012 3:58 PM EST2012-11-08 20:58:31 GMT
    We saw yet another disturbing vote by a four member panel of the Dougherty County School board last week. Rather than fire a teacher who yanked a kindergartner across a gym, then slapped her in the face,
    Rather than fire a teacher who yanked a kindergartner across a gym, then slapped her in the face, the panel voted to suspend her and reassign her to another school.

  • Tuesday, November 6 2012 4:57 PM EST2012-11-06 21:57:17 GMT
    Almost daily we have stories about drug arrests somewhere in south Georgia. While local law enforcement is often on the front lines of these busts, regional drug task forces have played a big role in taking
    Almost daily we have stories about drug arrests somewhere in south Georgia. While local law enforcement is often on the front lines of these busts, regional drug task forces have played a big role in taking dealers, narcotics and weapons off the street.

  • Thursday, November 1 2012 2:15 PM EDT2012-11-01 18:15:54 GMT
    Right now, the American Red Cross is doing what we've come to expect from the charity, helping people recover from a disaster. Red Cross workers and volunteers are spread out across numerous states
    Did you know that the Red Cross is the only charity mandated by the federal government to respond to major disasters?  And it gets no federal funding.

  • Tuesday, October 30 2012 12:50 PM EDT2012-10-30 16:50:05 GMT
    On Nov. 6, voters will see an important question a little further down their ballot, well after the Presidential and local races. The question is about charter schools, and Georgia's current process
    On Nov. 6, voters will see an important question a little further down their ballot, well after the Presidential and local races. The question is about charter schools, and Georgia's current process for approving them.

  • Friday, October 26 2012 3:15 PM EDT2012-10-26 19:15:15 GMT
    Through the Water Gas and Light Commission, the city of Albany could get up to $30 million in reimbursements from MEAG power bonds over the next several years. City leaders could do a lot of things with
    Through the Water Gas and Light Commission, the city of Albany could get up to $30 million  in reimbursements from MEAG power bonds over the next several years.

  • Tuesday, October 23 2012 12:07 PM EDT2012-10-23 16:07:43 GMT
    Many business owners and private citizens were given quite the shock recently when it was announced that the downtown post office would be closing, effective December 2nd. Even city and county leaders
    Many business owners and private citizens were given quite the shock recently when it was announced that the downtown post office would be closing, effective December 2nd.

  • Thursday, October 18 2012 10:13 AM EDT2012-10-18 14:13:59 GMT
    This is a great week for the south Georgia economy. Fifteen thousand people came to the Georgia Throwdown Music Festival; A great First year. It's Homecoming week for Albany State University, a very
    Big events mean that this is a great week for the south Georgia economy.

  • Tuesday, October 16 2012 6:54 PM EDT2012-10-16 22:54:32 GMT
    The first Georgia Throwdown exceeded even the expectations of the organizers. Despite getting a rather late start planning the 3-day music festival, they were able secure a lineup of more than 60 acts

    We applaud the organizers for having the guts to try to pull off such a large event in Albany, and the foresight to believe people from around South Georgia would support it.

  • Tuesday, October 9 2012 2:01 PM EDT2012-10-09 18:01:58 GMT
    The newspaper business in this country has a proud history, and it's no stretch to say print journalists played an important role in some of our country's most important events and eras. As radio and
    The dawn of the internet age changed the playing field for all media, and newspapers have lost the largest share.

  • Thursday, October 4 2012 3:15 PM EDT2012-10-04 19:15:05 GMT
    It's about to cost a lot more to go to a Georgia technical college. That's a shame, but it was also probably unavoidable. The Technical College System of Georgia recently passed a 13% tuition increase
    It's about to cost a lot more to go to a Georgia technical college.  That's a shame, but it was also probably unavoidable.

  • Wednesday, October 3 2012 3:04 PM EDT2012-10-03 19:04:39 GMT
    The Miller County School Board is the latest of several boards in South Georgia to draw the attention of the Governor. After hearing that members threatened to fire employees and hurled curse words at
    The Miller School System future operations will not be linked to past leadership. The stakes are too high to fail again.

  • Thursday, September 27 2012 4:53 PM EDT2012-09-27 20:53:38 GMT
    Fall is here and it'll be hitting the right notes with two, first-time, major music festivals. The Georgia Throwdown and Albany's Ray Charles Music Festival!   The 3-day Georgia Throwdown Music and Arts
    Fall is here and it'll be hitting the right notes with two, first-time, major music festivals. The Georgia Throwdown and Albany's Ray Charles Music Festival! 

  • Tuesday, September 25 2012 10:02 AM EDT2012-09-25 14:02:29 GMT
    Every week it seems there is another story about a meth lab in a neighborhood. Does it make you wonder why we did not have such bad drug problem in our day? You may recall a different drug experience
    Every week it seems there is another story about a meth lab in a neighborhood. Does it make you wonder why we did not have such bad drug problem in our day?

  • Thursday, September 20 2012 4:49 PM EDT2012-09-20 20:49:29 GMT
    It's been done before but it's still needed! This week's joint revival services between Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church and First Presbyterian Church of Albany are an effort to promote much-needed
    This week's joint revival services between Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church and First Presbyterian Church of Albany are an effort to promote much-needed racial and religious harmony.

  • Tuesday, September 18 2012 4:46 PM EDT2012-09-18 20:46:52 GMT
    Last week, we learned that a Warwick Police Department K-9 dog died under peculiar circumstances, two weeks ago. The dog was found inside a police vehicle, apparently killed by a heatstroke. Lt. Thomas
    a Warwick Police Department K-9 dog died under peculiar circumstances, two weeks ago. The dog was found inside a police vehicle, apparently killed by a heatstroke.

  • Thursday, September 13 2012 1:02 PM EDT2012-09-13 17:02:57 GMT
    We've all heard of the infamous waste of tax dollars building a bridge to nowhere. Well, now, a majority of city commissioners want to waste more of your tax dollars, $150,000 this time, for a second
    Albany City commissioners want to waste more of your tax dollars, $150,000 this time, for a second plan to relocate our downtown bus station.

  • Tuesday, September 11 2012 12:56 PM EDT2012-09-11 16:56:07 GMT
    It's been 11 years since our world changed, since terrorists attacked the United States and killed nearly 3,000 innocent people. September 11th can never be just another day. It is a day when we must
    It's been 11 years since our world changed, since terrorists attacked the United States and killed nearly 3,000 innocent people.

  • Thursday, September 6 2012 10:53 AM EDT2012-09-06 14:53:44 GMT
    A deadly gang battle in East Albany ten days ago had far- reaching implications. Gangs threatened retaliation, and rumors of violence swept through our schools. Some parents even pulled their children
    Gangs threatened retaliation after deadly gang battle. Thankfully, police and school leaders got together in a show of solidarity, and so far, there's been no violent retaliation. But don't let your guard down.

  • Tuesday, September 4 2012 4:10 PM EDT2012-09-04 20:10:58 GMT
    We've chronicled serious problems with multiple south Georgia school boards in recent years. From Randolph to Sumter County, from Miller to Dougherty County, it seems too many school board members are
    From Randolph to Sumter County, from Miller to Dougherty County, it seems too many school board members are more interested in protecting their own interests or winning petty arguments than doing what's right for students. But we shouldn't think all is lost.

  • Thursday, August 30 2012 1:53 PM EDT2012-08-30 17:53:38 GMT
    It's happened again in Albany. Criminals set up an ambush of a convenience store, then they sling the door open, and are on top of the clerk before he can do anything about it. We would like to suggest
    Criminals set up an ambush of a convenience store, then they sling the door open, and are on top of the clerk before he can do anything about it. We would like to suggest some changes in convenience store operations that will minimize the element of surprise.

  • Tuesday, August 28 2012 4:47 PM EDT2012-08-28 20:47:47 GMT
    Weekend gang activity spilled over into Dougherty County high schools this week as rumors of gang violence led to heightened security. Some parents even took their students out of school for the day. The

    Weekend gang activity spilled over into Dougherty County high schools this week as rumors of gang violence led to heightened security.

  • Thursday, August 23 2012 5:01 PM EDT2012-08-23 21:01:12 GMT
    Many of you have complained recently about new rules for renewing your driver's license. We agree the new regulations are cumbersome, but they're meant to make our country safer by preventing identification
    Many of you have complained recently about new rules for renewing your driver's license. We agree the new regulations are cumbersome, but they're meant to make our country safer by preventing identification fraud.

  • Tuesday, August 21 2012 11:15 AM EDT2012-08-21 15:15:23 GMT
    A momentous decision was made this week as Augusta National Golf Club, home of the Masters, has admitted women for the first time in its 80-year history. The announcement was made Monday that former Secretary
    A momentous decision was made this week as Augusta National Golf Club, home of the Masters, has admitted women for the first time in its 80-year history.

  • Thursday, August 16 2012 4:55 PM EDT2012-08-16 20:55:18 GMT
    We can't wait to drive down Oglethorpe Boulevard and see a big eye sore transformed into green space! The improvement will be even greater than the big conversion on Slappey Boulevard, when the abandoned
    We can't wait to drive down Oglethorpe Boulevard and see a big eye sore transformed into green space!

  • Tuesday, August 14 2012 12:03 PM EDT2012-08-14 16:03:49 GMT
    For 17 days from London, Olympic athletes from around the world amazed and inspired us. We're especially proud of Team USA which had an incredible games, winning 104 medals including 46 golds. These
    For two and a half weeks, we didn't worry so much about our still struggling economy or nasty political battles. We were all just Americans cheering for our team. Hopefully, we won't have to wait until the next Olympics to feel that sense of togetherness again.

  • Thursday, August 9 2012 3:52 PM EDT2012-08-09 19:52:58 GMT
    Some news outlets across the country are rushing to label Chik-fil-A president Dan Cathy as a bigot after comments he made about his company's position on "gay marriage." What Mr. Cathy actually said
    Some news outlets across the country are rushing to label Chik-fil-A president Dan Cathy as a bigot after comments he made about his company's position on "gay marriage." Nowhere did he say he is against homosexuals. Nowhere did he say homosexuals don't deserve rights.

  • Wednesday, August 8 2012 4:23 PM EDT2012-08-08 20:23:39 GMT
    There's good news and bad news when it comes to Georgia's sales tax holiday! The good news? After over a year off, Georgians will be able to get a tax break on school supplies, computers, and clothes.
    After over a year off, Georgians will be able to get a tax break on school supplies, computers, and clothes.

  • Tuesday, July 31 2012 5:00 PM EDT2012-07-31 21:00:41 GMT
    There's good news and bad news when it comes to Georgia's sales tax holiday! The good news? After over a year off, Georgians will be able to get a tax break on school supplies, computers, and clothes.
    The good news? Georgians will be able to get a tax break on school supplies, computers, and clothes. The bad news? Many across the state won't be able to get those breaks until AFTER they start school.

  • Tuesday, July 31 2012 10:01 AM EDT2012-07-31 14:01:22 GMT
    It was bound to happen. Two Albany families injured in June when their truck was broadsided by an Albany Police SUV have hired a lawyer. It's not a matter of IF they will get money from the city, it's
    It was bound to happen. Two Albany families injured in June when their truck was broadsided by an Albany Police SUV have hired a lawyer. It's not a matter of IF they will get money from the city, it's

  • Thursday, July 26 2012 2:50 PM EDT2012-07-26 18:50:03 GMT
    This is a Guest Editorial from Deborah Bowie of the Albany Chamber of Commerce Southwest Georgia has a transportation problem. But it's not the kind of problem many of us think about when hear the word
    Over the years, SW Georgia - like the rest of the state - has struggled to get the funding it needs to fix its roads problem.

  • Tuesday, July 24 2012 5:00 PM EDT2012-07-24 21:00:44 GMT
    Until now, the adults in charge of the Dougherty County School System might have argued that the numerous problems they have caused haven't directly hurt the students. While we don't think that's true,
    Until now, the adults in charge of the Dougherty County School System might have argued that the numerous problems they have caused haven't directly hurt the students. 

  • Thursday, July 19 2012 5:30 PM EDT2012-07-19 21:30:56 GMT
    If you don't have a job, it isn't because the University System of Georgia might not have wanted you. When the private sector is increasing pay rolls at a snail's pace as the recession drags on, and while
    Since 2007, the University System of Georgia has been hiring left and right. The system has added more than 5,000 employees during this same period.

  • Thursday, July 19 2012 9:12 AM EDT2012-07-19 13:12:01 GMT
    The latest Dougherty County School System controversy is another embarrassment to a system that has had more than its share in recent years. The system likely will have to repay the state more than
    The Dougherty County School system will possibly have to repay the state more than $100,000 in misspent federal grant money. 

  • Thursday, July 12 2012 11:45 AM EDT2012-07-12 15:45:31 GMT
    The hooligans who went rampaging downtown on the Fourth of July, disrupted what's supposed to be a fun event, and a public display of honor and patriotism. It brought shame to the city of Albany, and
    The hooligans who went rampaging downtown on the Fourth of July, disrupted what's supposed to be a fun event, and a public display of honor and patriotism.

  • Monday, July 9 2012 1:23 PM EDT2012-07-09 17:23:38 GMT
    Every year, we report stories of children being left in hot cars and buses. And every year, we hope that we won't have to report such stories. We've reported on parents who normally don't drop their
    Especially with our recent triple-digit temperatures, we impress upon all who have children in their care to do whatever it takes to ensure the children are out of the cars and buses when you leave the vehicle. 

  • Thursday, July 5 2012 10:22 AM EDT2012-07-05 14:22:17 GMT
    The recent announcement that Albany State University, a historically black college, and Deerfield Windsor, a college-prep private school, signed an agreement to offer Deerfield students college credits,
    Starting this fall, Deerfield students can take classes and receive college credit from ASU.  The agreement allows parents of Deerfield seniors to shave off some costs of college.

  • Wednesday, July 4 2012 5:16 PM EDT2012-07-04 21:16:06 GMT
    How many more people will have to be hurt or killed before the Albany Police Chief takes Officer Gary Price off the streets? Two people have been killed and 10 injured in four separate crashes that involved
    How many more people will have to be hurt or killed before the Albany Police Chief takes Officer Gary Price off the streets? Two people have been killed and 10 injured in four separate crashes that involved Officer Price.

  • Thursday, June 28 2012 11:39 AM EDT2012-06-28 15:39:22 GMT
    Graduation is an important milestone in the life of anyone, but even more so for a group of south Georgians who recently earned their high school diplomas. This month, the Millennium Second Chance Educational
    This month, the Millennium Second Chance Educational Center held three graduation ceremonies for students at its facilities in Worth and Mitchell Counties.

  • Wednesday, June 27 2012 3:52 PM EDT2012-06-27 19:52:25 GMT
    Have you gotten one of those yellow cards in the mail recently? It's an updated voter registration precinct card. You need to pay attention to it. It tells you where you'll vote on July 31st. And there
    Have you gotten one of those yellow cards in the mail recently? It's an updated voter registration precinct card. You need to pay attention to it. It tells you where you'll vote on July 31st.

  • Thursday, June 21 2012 11:25 AM EDT2012-06-21 15:25:52 GMT
    Hundreds of people showed up at Albany's Tift Park Saturday to get to know their neighbors and their police officers better. Albany Police sponsored 'A Day with a Cop' to build better community relations,
    When people speak up and tell officers what they know, the chances of solving a crime skyrocket.  One recent example is the burglary at the pawn shop owned by American Idol winner Phillip Phillips' family.

  • Tuesday, June 19 2012 11:24 AM EDT2012-06-19 15:24:41 GMT
    There's much debate about the proposed new transportation tax that Georgians will vote on July 31st. According to the Chamber of Commerce, this regional tax will create more than 15,000 jobs, will have
    To ensure that you make an educated vote, regardless of how you vote, there are three upcoming forums that will be helpful as you make your decision.

  • In 1966, several hundred young people attended their first college classes in a handful of buildings at the brand new Albany Junior College on Gillionville Road. In the 46 intervening years, that small
    In 1966, several hundred young people attended their first college classes in a handful of buildings at the brand new Albany Junior College on Gillionville Road.

  • Tuesday, June 12 2012 3:12 PM EDT2012-06-12 19:12:46 GMT
    Do you believe everything you read on the Internet and all the e-mails you receive daily? We suggest you don't believe anything you read, without double- checking the claims. I received one today, regarding
    Do you believe everything you read on the Internet and all the e-mails you receive daily?  We suggest you don't believe anything you read, without double- checking the claims.

  • Thursday, June 7 2012 4:11 PM EDT2012-06-07 20:11:58 GMT
    Far too often, we get caught up in our own little worlds. Our work, our families, our bills, in other words, ourselves. We don't take the time to pause do many things we should do. But Wednesday, Thousands
    Far too often, we get caught up in our own little worlds.  But Wednesday, thousands of south Georgians did a good thing, turned out and paused to honor a true American Hero.

  • Tuesday, June 5 2012 2:38 PM EDT2012-06-05 18:38:04 GMT
    The recent vandalism of the Vietnam War Memorial in Albany is a despicable crime. The vandals covered the names of those who served and gave their lives as well as smeared a substance across the monument.
    The recent vandalism of the Vietnam War Memorial in Albany is a despicable crime. The vandals covered the names of those who served and gave their lives as well as smeared a substance across the monument.

  • Thursday, May 31 2012 11:06 AM EDT2012-05-31 15:06:48 GMT
    One week after our community cheered and celebrated the accomplishments of a Leesburg Hometown Hero, we find ourselves grieving the sacrifice of another: Lance Corporal Steven Sutton. A 2007 graduate
    One week after our community cheered and celebrated the accomplishments of a Leesburg Hometown Hero, we find ourselves grieving the sacrifice of another:  Lance Corporal Steven Sutton.

  • Tuesday, May 29 2012 3:20 PM EDT2012-05-29 19:20:17 GMT
    Are you and your family ready for a disaster? If you're not, now is the time to prepare. Hurricane season begins June 1st, but we've already had two tropical storms. Just this week, Beryl made landfall
    Hurricane season begins June 1st, but we've already had two tropical storms. In addition to weather dangers, we face other threats.

  • Thursday, May 24 2012 10:55 AM EDT2012-05-24 14:55:40 GMT
    Over the past four months, a shy and soft-spoken, yet talented young man from Leesburg strummed and sang his way into our hearts. He was humble and gracious, and delivered performances that brought the
    Over the past four months, a shy and soft-spoken, yet talented young man from Leesburg strummed and sang his way into our hearts. He was humble and gracious, and delivered performances that brought the audience, and often the judges, to their feet. Phillip Phillips brought our community together.

  • Tuesday, May 22 2012 10:42 AM EDT2012-05-22 14:42:03 GMT
    A dedicated group of young Albany women made history in a good way recently. The Monroe High girls track team completed another great season, and for the fourth consecutive year, won the Triple-A track
    The Monroe High girls track team completed another great season, and for the fourth consecutive year, won the Triple-A track and field championship for the state of Georgia.

  • Thursday, May 17 2012 4:13 PM EDT2012-05-17 20:13:18 GMT
    A Sumter County Commissioner stands accused of the ultimate in political corruption, offering up his vote in exchange for cash. Commissioner Al Hurley was indicted by a federal grand jury Monday and charged
    Commissioner Al Hurley was indicted by a federal grand jury Monday and charged with asking for, and receiving more than $20,000 from an out-of-state contractor.

  • Tuesday, May 15 2012 10:33 AM EDT2012-05-15 14:33:30 GMT
    There's yet another instance of poor judgment by top administrators in the Dougherty County School System. Superintendent Joshua Murfree and Assistant Superintendent Kenneth Goseer reimbursed parents
    There's yet another instance of poor judgment by top administrators in the Dougherty County School System. Superintendent Joshua Murfree and Assistant Superintendent Kenneth Goseer reimbursed parents

  • Thursday, May 10 2012 1:10 PM EDT2012-05-10 17:10:02 GMT
    Lee County High made national news recently, with its prom dress code. The school enacted and enforced rules that prevented teen girls from wearing plunging necklines and super-short dresses. While
    Lee County High made national news recently, with its prom dress code. While some disagree with the school's policy, we think it's appropriate.

  • Tuesday, May 8 2012 4:54 PM EDT2012-05-08 20:54:52 GMT
    We hope Commissioners will finally allow voters to decide the City/County Consolidation issue, as one obvious answer to our budget shortfall. The City now struggles with financial problems, which may
    We hope Commissioners will finally allow voters to decide the City/County Consolidation issue, as one obvious answer to our budget shortfall.

  • Thursday, May 3 2012 11:38 AM EDT2012-05-03 15:38:03 GMT
    Here is one of those ideas that just makes too much common sense to actually be put to use. Why aren't college text books offered as a digital download to a kindle, or the like, and allow students the
    The average cost is about $1,000 per year per student, and they receive back a pittance when trying to resell the used books. This has appeared to be a racket, for decades.

  • Tuesday, May 1 2012 12:12 PM EDT2012-05-01 16:12:29 GMT
    It seems dysfunctional school boards are growing like weeds in south Georgia. We've been critical of decisions made by the Dougherty County School Board over the last few years, but they seem wise compared
    Governor Nathan Deal announced he's kicking the entire Miller County School Board out of office over evidence that members threatened the jobs of employees and hurled expletives at each other.

  • Thursday, April 26 2012 10:53 AM EDT2012-04-26 14:53:36 GMT
    There's a movement to split Albany into two cities. Some people in northwest Albany essentially want to secede. This is a terrible idea for many reasons. First, it's not even logical. The secessionists
    There's a movement to split Albany into two cities. Some people in northwest Albany essentially want to secede. This is a terrible idea for many reasons.

  • Tuesday, April 24 2012 5:00 PM EDT2012-04-24 21:00:45 GMT
    About 99% of the museum's operating budget has to come from private sources, with no funding from city or county governments.
    Let's Make A Bid helps the museum operate throughout the year, which it does with almost zero government funding. About 99% of the museum's operating budget has to come from private sources, with no funding from city or county governments.

  • Thursday, April 19 2012 2:45 PM EDT2012-04-19 18:45:28 GMT
    In an effort to cut costs, the Dougherty County School System is proposing several cost-cutting measures including closing some schools, outsourcing some services, and doing away with its School Police Program.

  • Tuesday, April 17 2012 2:22 PM EDT2012-04-17 18:22:24 GMT
    Last week, the Mitchell Co. Commission voted to privatize the county's EMS. You would expect a lot people would have been talking about it. But they didn't know anything about it until it was a done deal.

  • Thursday, April 12 2012 3:51 PM EDT2012-04-12 19:51:43 GMT
    The regional T-SPLOST referendum will be on the ballot in July. This is a new tax that would fund $453 million worth of road projects that leaders say are vital for Southwest Georgia.

  • Tuesday, April 10 2012 11:22 AM EDT2012-04-10 15:22:22 GMT
    We were saddened to hear last week, that school board member David Maschke would not run for re-election to his seat on the Dougherty County School Board.

  • Thursday, April 5 2012 11:45 AM EDT2012-04-05 15:45:12 GMT
    The decision to return Claire Fox Hillard as Music Director for the Albany Symphony Orchestra sends a terrible message to community, especially our black community and to our youth.

  • Tuesday, April 3 2012 12:44 PM EDT2012-04-03 16:44:56 GMT
    The taxpayers who fund their one-hundred fourteen million dollar budget are tightening their belts! Why shouldn't the school system?

  • Thursday, March 29 2012 1:37 PM EDT2012-03-29 17:37:23 GMT
    South Georgia made national news recently when a North Carolina man who was in Ben Hill County taking skydivers up in his hot-air balloon went down in a freak storm.

  • Tuesday, March 27 2012 4:51 PM EDT2012-03-27 20:51:10 GMT
    Georgia lawmakers are considering a bill that would force people applying for welfare to pass a drug test before getting any benefits.

  • Friday, March 23 2012 6:23 PM EDT2012-03-23 22:23:24 GMT
    Recently, Dougherty School Superintendent Joshua Murfree suggested Dougherty County schools convert to year-round school-- and we think that's a good idea.

  • Tuesday, March 20 2012 5:54 PM EDT2012-03-20 21:54:44 GMT
    Republican and Democratic leaders worked together to make changes to the bill that satisfied most of the opponents.

  • Friday, March 16 2012 6:35 PM EDT2012-03-16 22:35:08 GMT
    U.S. Senator Saxby Chambliss, co-sponsored legislation, which would prohibit members of Congress from receiving pay if the congressional budget and appropriations process is not completed by the start of the fiscal year on Oct.1.

  • Thursday, March 8 2012 6:20 PM EST2012-03-08 23:20:49 GMT
    South Georgia firearm dealers say they are having a hard time keeping guns in stock, because of skyrocketing sales. Probate Judges in the area say they're seeing increased numbers of people applying for gun carry permits.

  • Tuesday, March 6 2012 10:42 AM EST2012-03-06 15:42:47 GMT
    Former NBA star Dominique Wilkins hopes to bring awareness and help the public understand how diabetes can impact a young person. He also wants to let people know that diabetics can appear to be physically fit.

  • Thursday, March 1 2012 4:00 PM EST2012-03-01 21:00:41 GMT
    Have you ever heard anyone say there's nothing to do in Albany? Maybe you've said it yourself. But it's certainly not true this weekend

  • Thursday, March 1 2012 3:40 PM EST2012-03-01 20:40:26 GMT
    Ninth District Republican Congressman Tom Graves has offered legislation that would let the states keep the highway money they collect, so they can spend the money on highway projects as they see fit.

  • Thursday, February 23 2012 5:57 PM EST2012-02-23 22:57:47 GMT
    In Albany, only stores that sell alcohol are required to have surveillance cameras. We think it's time for city leaders to update the ordinance.

  • Tuesday, February 21 2012 5:00 PM EST2012-02-21 22:00:46 GMT
    State lawmakers are debating a bill that will keep nonviolent juvenile offenders out of youth detention centers, like the one located here in Albany.

  • Thursday, February 16 2012 2:55 PM EST2012-02-16 19:55:19 GMT
    "Red Tails" tells an important story that hasn't been taught to our young people enough. It's about the young black men who became some of the best pilots America produced during World War II.

  • Tuesday, February 14 2012 9:25 AM EST2012-02-14 14:25:54 GMT
    The Albany Marine Band will play its last notes in a Valentine's night concert at the Albany Municipal Auditorium.

  • Thursday, February 9 2012 3:49 PM EST2012-02-09 20:49:50 GMT
    Coming up next week, The ALDON (Albany-Dougherty National) prayer committee will sponsor the 39th annual Mayor's Prayer Breakfast.

  • Tuesday, February 7 2012 3:52 PM EST2012-02-07 20:52:29 GMT
    Experts say Georgia and many other states have anti-hazing laws, but we wonder if they're tough enough.

  • Tuesday, January 31 2012 5:08 PM EST2012-01-31 22:08:24 GMT
    It's time for dog owners to assume control of and responsibility for their dogs, especially if the dog is a breed that's known to have aggressive tendencies.

  • Friday, January 27 2012 9:07 AM EST2012-01-27 14:07:09 GMT
    That means the financial burden on the student and his family will increase, and it's no wonder. The problem is that the cost of higher education has grown at a ridiculous rate.

  • Tuesday, January 24 2012 6:52 PM EST2012-01-24 23:52:32 GMT
    Dr. Anthony Parker says that functional literacy is usually needed for admission to higher education

  • Thursday, January 19 2012 3:00 PM EST2012-01-19 20:00:57 GMT
    The Georgia High School Association last week voted to hold separate championships in all sports for public and private schools in Class A. The public schools believe they are not able to compete on a level field against private schools who are able and have to recruit students.

  • Thursday, January 12 2012 2:00 AM EST2012-01-12 07:00:40 GMT
    We've been critical of the Dougherty County School Board and Superintendent Joshua Murfree the last couple of years for poor decisions and poor leadership. But we want to be the first to praise the administration

  • Monday, January 9 2012 4:19 PM EST2012-01-09 21:19:26 GMT
    Governor Nathan Deal announced an idea to do something that we think is long overdue in state and federal government: consolidate and streamline government agencies.