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Articles by Jack Orr
Native Title: Karinga Lakes
This week Native Title Holders of the Karinga Lakes region, the Anangu People, have received recognition of their right to protect their sacred sites from further damage from mining explorations taking place on their land.
Summer Water Safety
With high temperatures expected across the country leading into the New-Year, the Royal Life Saving Society is urging all Australians to make sure that they and their family stay safe around water. Inland waterways contain many environments where drowning deaths occur – rivers, lakes,waterholes, dams, irrigation channels, water tanks and creeks have all been sites of drowning deaths. Males are 6.4 times more likely to drown than females at inland waterways.
CONVERGE Mparntwe (Alice Springs) 2022
MEETING TOGETHER >> MOVING IN ONE DIRECTION APURTE IRRETYE-KE IWERRE ANYENTE-LE CONVERGE is a gathering which celebrates, showcases and recognises the value and necessity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander media in getting our voices, views and our stories heard nationally and internationally. Converge was held at the DoubleTree Hilton in Mparntwe/ Alice Springs and presented plenaries, showcase presentations and industry discussion.
100 facts for Alabama's next 100 years
Alabama reached its 200th anniversary of statehood last month. As a tribute to the past and a nod to 2020 being the first year of the state's third century, here's a look at 100 facts about the state. --- 30 notable Alabamians 1. “Cotton Tom” Heflin — Born in Louina, Heflin was one of the drafters of the Constitution of 1901 and served as a member of the state House of Representatives before being elected secretary of state.
US Postal Service to get busier this week
U.S. Postal Service officials predict the busiest days for holiday mailing will be during the week of Dec. 16, but volume will increase starting Monday. Getting a head start on mail can save time. Here are the last dates to send mail and have it delivered before Christmas: • Dec. 14 — USPS retail ground • Dec. 20 — First-class mail (including greeting cards) • Dec. 20 — First-class packages (up to 15.99 ounces) • Dec. 21 — Priority mail • Dec.
US Postal Service to get busier this week
U.S. Postal Service officials predict the busiest days for holiday mailing will be during the week of Dec. 16, but volume will increase starting Monday. Getting a head start on mail can save time. That was the strategy Debra Sarrels of Decatur tried Friday at the Decatur post office. Sarrels, who sent several packages to people in Florida and West Virginia, said she went to the post office early in the month to beat the crowds.
Alabama's six constitutions, secession ordinance on display in Huntsville
Alabama's six constitutions and its secession ordinance will be on display in Huntsville beginning Sunday to mark Alabama’s 200 years of statehood. The seven documents will be available in the Huntsville Museum of Art until Aug. 11 before returning to Montgomery, where they will be on display at the State Archives from Nov. 3 to Dec. 31.
Decatur to continue recycling program despite lower prices for recyclable material
Revenue from recyclable paper and plastic has declined in the past 16 months because of a shift in Chinese policy, but that won’t stop Decatur’s recycling effort. City officials said bringing in revenue is only a secondary goal of the recycling program. “Trying to reduce waste to make that landfill last longer is their (primary) goal,” said Streets and Environmental Services Director Rickey Terry.
Cleanup planned for Wilson Morgan lake 'eyesore'
John Lietard paused Thursday while walking his dog on the trail at Wilson Morgan Park and gave a blunt response to a question about trash around the lake. “It’s such an eyesore,” he said. “It’s really embarrassing for the city as a whole.” Lietard said something should be done about the litter, and an effort to make a dent in the debris is planned. The Decatur Daily, the city of Decatur and Tennessee Riverkeeper are sponsoring a volunteer cleanup of the lake area from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.
Post 15 presents awards, celebrates American Legion's 100th anniversary
American Legion Post 15 in Decatur honored 17 people with awards Friday night and celebrated the national organization’s 100th anniversary. The award recipients included first responders, teachers and members of Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts. Post 15 Commander Harald Belletete said the event “went wonderfully.” During the event, several videos were shown to commemorate the America Legion anniversary.
Former mayor says city should be proactive
A frequently asked question to those who held an elected office is, “What made you want to run.” Former Decatur Mayor Lynn Fowler said, “I thought I would be able to make things happen and could make a positive difference; to do more than was being done.” Fowler said, “I think people should run to improve the quality of life for the citizens in the community.” While still in office, Fowler was able to preside over construction of the Jack Allen Soccer Complex.
Stephenson teaches for the moment ideas 'click' with students
Becoming an educator is not something people do to become rich and famous. Many become teachers because they love their subjects and want to help others understand them, too. Karen Stephenson is a math teacher at Decatur High School, and she said two of her favorite parts of teaching are when concepts “click” with students and her ability to interact with students. Stephenson was born in Decatur and attended Danville and Elmore High Schools. She then attended Auburn University.
Austin High principal prays for school each day
Before becoming principal at Austin High School, Melissa Scott said she "wanted to have experience at all levels.” Scott worked as an assistant principal for an elementary, middle and high school. She then worked at each as a principal. Scott said she never planned on getting into the education field, but her plans changed after receiving a degree in political science from Alabama State University. She said her mother suggested she get her master's in teaching and head down that path.
Bibbee: Hospitality makes Alabama special
What makes Alabama stand apart in Caroline Bibbee's mind is the hospitality. “The hospitality, no matter what town you’re in, is incredible in Alabama,” said Bibbee said. “People will always just act like you belong.” Bibbee, a freshman at Auburn University, said she loves Decatur. “I plan to move back since I can’t imagine living anywhere else, especially because my family lives here,” she said. Bibbee graduated from Decatur High School in 2018.
'Alabama in movies is not the real Alabama'
When going to visit his grandparents in the Auburn-Opelika area, Grant Thompson got the impression that Alabama was just a rural state. That view changed when his family relocated to Alabama from Raleigh, North Carolina, while he was in high school. “When I moved to Huntsville in ’93, I was shocked. I realized that the Alabama in movies is not the real Alabama,” Thompson said.
Maynard focused on 'thrill of the bend'
Jacob Maynard began fishing when he was about 3 years old, and he's passionate about it. Maynard, 16, is a junior at Decatur High School. An avid sports fan, Maynard is on the baseball team and attends most school athletic events. While he loves Decatur High, Maynard said he wishes the school had a fishing team. “I love the thrill of the bend,” he said, referring to the bending of the pole when a fish is on the line.
Chamber official proud to be part of area's success
Judy Brown returned to her hometown of Decatur last year, and she's glad she did. Brown is the director of member and investor relations at Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce and is charged with keeping the chamber’s members happy. Brown began the role in 2018 after moving back to Decatur. From 2011 to 2012, Brown worked as an administrative assistant for the chamber. She said she came back because, “I love it here.
Bolding appreciates Alabama after working in Europe
Decatur and state leaders often worry about people who were born, raised and educated in Alabama staying here and contributing to the community. Caki Bolding is a poster child for those concerned with Alabamians leaving the state. Bolding grew up in Decatur and attended Decatur High School. She then headed off to the University of Alabama.
Decatur teacher says Alabama one of nation's best-kept secrets
“I think Alabama is one of the best-kept secrets in the nation,” said Ginny Owens. Owens has lived in north Alabama her entire life and says she would not take anything for it. When growing up, she was surrounded by lots of family. “It was a real privilege to have so much family nearby," she said. "They really helped in my development and in learning about my heritage.” Owens is currently in her 15th year as a teacher in Decatur City Schools and her fifth year at Decatur High.
Pastor says state not finished with racial reconciliation
Steve Bateman chose a career where he could “glorify God by helping people know, love, obey and exalt Jesus Christ.” Bateman serves as the senior pastor for First Bible Church of Decatur. Growing up in three different states (Missouri, Virginia and North Carolina) taught Bateman much about the nation and its people. “In Alabama, we still have a lot of work to do on our image," he said.
Decatur student looking for a city a little larger
Some people tend to keep to themselves while others are incredibly social. Decatur High School student Anna Clair Lee is quite social and loves meeting new people. A junior at Decatur High, Lee is an active member of Future Business Leaders of America, Key Club and the National Honor Society. Lee said she enjoys all of these clubs because they offer her a chance to meet new people, learn important skills and volunteer in the community.
Police chief wanted to serve community
Decatur Police Chief Nate Allen said he had a simple motto when he entered law enforcement. “The impact I make on my community is small, but if everyone works together to contribute, it makes a big difference," he said. Allen said most people are motivated to protect and serve their community. Allen chooses to give back through his service in law enforcement. Before coming to Decatur, he was an officer for 30 years with the police department in Knoxville, Tennessee.
College freshman says state should embrace history
University of Alabama freshman Beau Claborn recognizes Alabama has an interesting history but thinks it is not something to run from. “Our unique history and how we have overcome it is fascinating to me,” he said. “I feel like we should do a better job of sharing our history since it’s not all it appears to be." He said people outside of the state have misconceptions about Alabama. “We definitely have an image problem.
History teacher says misconceptions go both ways
Stephanie McCrary, a history teacher at Decatur High School, says that she loves Alabama and wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. “I like to get out in nature to kayak and hike,” she said. The many outdoor activities available nearby in Alabama don't exist or aren't as convenient in other states. McCrary, who loves traveling, recently took a trip to California. While there she ran into a California high school history teacher.
Alabama should teach its history more than every 200 years
Michael Douglas, superintendent of Decatur City Schools, grew up as the son of a high school principal and later a superintendent, among other roles. He jokes about the time he forged his dad’s signature on a progress report card only to be caught by his father’s secretary. Douglas said that when he first became involved in education he had no plans to take the administrative route.
Native Floridian came to adore Alabama
Doraine Mayo had been a Floridian for all of her life until her family moved to Mobile around the time of her starting college. Mayo was born in Tampa but later moved to Pensacola. She said, “Even when we lived in Mobile, we still thought of ourselves as Floridians.” As time wore on and Mayo graduated from the University of Mobile, her feelings toward Alabama changed.
Interacting with people favorite part of store owner's job
Tammy Eddy, a local business owner in Decatur, has lived in Alabama her entire life. She is definitely in love with the state. She said she often meets people who are sent here for work or other reasons, and it’s obvious they don’t want to live here. “Pretty soon,” she said, “they fall in love with this state.” The transformed newcomers then try to stay as long as possible.
Breland: Old State Bank symbol of Decatur
An avid historian, David Breland has been fascinated with history since childhood. Breland said that most people learn about who they are from spending time with their parents. “From a young age, I loved going to my dad’s law office. It was fascinating work, and when he was a judge, there was always something interesting going on.” In recent years, Breland has taken over the responsibility of managing several historic local buildings such as the Old State Bank and the historic Decatur train depot.
Growing up on farm taught Hendrix responsibility
For Willodean Hendrix, growing up as one of 10 children on a farm was a learning experience. “It taught me responsibility," she said. "My chores were to gather the eggs and bring in the firewood.” She said she often drove the tractor while her father and brothers shucked the corn. After attending Marshall County High School, Hendrix married a sailor and moved to California. While he was away, she moved back to Alabama.
Mistaken freckle nearly cost Berry his start in education
After a education career of almost 30 years, Johnny Berry currently works as the principal of Decatur High School. His career almost never took off. When interviewing for his first job in a system in Georgia, Berry said they almost didn’t hire him because of a freckle. “When I was called into the superintendent’s office the day after my interviews, he asked me if I would have a problem not wearing an earring,” said Berry.
Teen wants to explore other places in South
Seth Ivy is a Decatur High student who said he has been interested in sports his entire life. Ivy has been a member of the Decatur High baseball team since he was in ninth grade. Now a junior, Ivy has been bumped up to varsity. Both of Ivy’s parents went to Ole Miss, a place he has dreamed of attending for as long as he can remember. Ivy said that once he’s there, he hopes to be a baseball manager. When thinking about the future, Ivy wants to engage in a sports marketing career.
Friendliness sets Alabama apart, but infrastructure needs improvement
“What sets Alabama apart from other states is the friendliness and neighborly attitude of the people in our state,” says John Seymour. Seymour currently serves as the president of the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce, a role he has filled for the past 28 years. In his role at the chamber, he supports area businesses and promotes the area to potential businesses. Seymour thinks Alabama is easily one of the most underrated states in the country.
Ceremony to present unit crest a milestone for Decatur High JROTC
Cadets in the Decatur High JROTC program stood at attention as Battalion Commander Cadet Lt. Col Mathew Tankersley presented each of them with a unit crest. Some cadets also received unit patches to wear on their camouflage field uniforms. The ceremony last week marked a milestone in the growing 6-year-old program. JROTC instructor and retired Army Master Sgt. David Minta said each military organization has a crest or unit designator.
Job fair Thursday to help workers with nonviolent criminal records
A job fair to help people with a light work history and some type of nonviolent criminal record is planned Thursday in Decatur. Employers from manufacturing and building companies will be present along with some temp agencies during the fair, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Ingalls Harbor Pavilion. Penny Townson of the Morgan County Economic Development Association said attendees should be prepared to interview during the event. Job seekers should be dressed for an interview and bring a resume.
Third Street Boys and Girls Club to hold work day, dedication Monday
Martin Luther King Jr. Day will provide the Boys and Girls Club in Decatur a chance to put the finishing touches on its Third Street Southwest location and dedicate the facility’s $350,000 renovation. Jim Clark, Boys and Girls Club national president, will be at the Third Street location for its ceremony and the work day preceding it. "It’s an honor that he saw the need and decided to come" from headquarters in Atlanta, said Casey Coleman, regional director of the Decatur clubs.
Speakers, marchers to honor MLK
The legacy of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. will be celebrated with marches, speeches and scholarship presentations around the area over the next two weeks. The Decatur Morgan County Minority Development Association will hold its 26th annual Unity Breakfast at Ingalls Harbor on Jan. 21, which is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The event will include a speaker and the presentation of approximately $50,000 in scholarships.
Local residents resolve to improve fitness, read more and minister to others
The top four New Year’s resolutions a year ago were to eat healthier, lose weight, save more money and read more, according to a YouGov poll on Statista.com. Decatur area residents focused on other topics as they set goals for 2019. Adam Burroughs, Katie Gilbert and Janet Hobbs have traditional New Year's resolutions. Burroughs said, “I plan on drinking more water and fewer soft drinks.” “I would like to read more and work out more than three days a week,” Gilbert said.
Decatur ready to bring out 'Christmas spirit' with parade
Firetrucks, police cars, high school bands and dozens of floats will travel along Second Avenue and Bank Street on Monday in the annual Decatur Christmas Parade. The “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” themed parade will begin on Second Avenue Southeast at Gordon Drive at 6 p.m., led by the Decatur High JROTC. The parade will feature more than 90 groups, including the Austin, Decatur and West Morgan high school bands.
New Saint Ann principal felt 'called by God' to administration
Ben Leach enjoyed swimming competitively so much that he decided to help coach and instruct younger swimmers while in high school and then in summertime while in college. Now principal of Saint Ann Catholic School, Leach said he hadn't realized his interest in coaching would help determine his career choice. “I loved being able to help the kids and see them progress,” he said.
Turkey Trot: Runners' Thanksgiving appetizer includes race, CrossFit workouts
Whether to work off one of the largest meals of the year in advance, spend time with family or support the United Way, more than 300 runners will ramble through downtown Decatur on Thursday. The fourth annual Turkey Trot road race will start at 8 a.m. Thanksgiving Day in front of First Baptist Church on Church Street. The race includes a 1-mile fun run/walk, a regular 5-kilometer (3.1 miles) race and a 5K that includes additional CrossFit workouts.
Enchanted Forest to fill Founders Park with Christmas trees for good cause
Three Decatur women envision a gallery of Christmas trees decorating Founders Park next month to bring people downtown and raise money for a disease that affects two of them. The trees will be put up in Founders Park, which is east of the Old State Bank, the week after Thanksgiving and decorated by their sponsors before Dec. 3. There’s still time to sign up for a sponsorship in the fundraiser to benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, or LLS.
New Saint Ann principal felt 'called by God' to administration
Ben Leach enjoyed swimming competitively so much that he decided to help coach and instruct younger swimmers while in high school and then in summertime while in college. Now principal of Saint Ann Catholic School, Leach said he hadn't realized his interest in coaching would help determine his career choice. “I loved being able to help the kids and see them progress,” he said.
Decatur High honor roll parties aim for academic motivation
Decatur High student Iman Fouche walked into the school's arena, soft drink in hand, eager to see the rewards for students' academic achievement. “The honor roll parties really make me feel good about myself," Fouche said. "They make me feel like my schoolwork is recognized and I have achieved something.” Decatur High recently celebrated students' academic efforts by throwing a quarterly honor roll party.
Trump agenda, Ten Commandments amendment on local voters' minds
A statewide constitutional amendment on displaying the Ten Commandments on public property, President Donald Trump’s agenda and immigration are some of the issues Decatur-area voters said they're weighing as they prepare to go to the polls Tuesday.State Amendment No. 1 would allow the Ten Commandments to be displayed "on state property and property owned or administrated by a public school or public body” while “prohibiting the expenditure of public funds" to defend the amendment's...
Luncheon gives young professionals access to city leader
After Decatur City Council President Page Bibbee spoke to a group of young professionals Wednesday, several of the attendees formed a line to talk with her.That was exactly what the organizers of the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce’s Young Professional Luncheon wanted.One of the goals for the program is to provide young professionals in the city with an outlet to meet and discuss matters with elected officials, according to Grant Thompson, director of communications for the chamber...
Falkville receives $350,000 state grant for sewage pipe improvement
FALKVILLE — The town of Falkville has received a $350,000 Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs grant to install new 8-inch sewage pipes, manholes and pipes with caps to allow access for cleaning. Falkville put up $58,083 in order to receive the match.
Decatur plans to celebrate its 200th year in 2020
The city of Decatur was born 198 years ago when a group of men gathered in Huntsville to form the Decatur Land Company, according to historians. The 200th anniversary of that moment will be in 2020, and Decatur will celebrate, according to city officials, but no plans have been made yet.“We are taking this one step at a time,” Mayor Tab Bowling said.
Q&A: State superintendent says metal detectors not answer, cites flaws in grading schools
Eric Mackey was hired as state school superintendent April 20 by the Alabama State Board of Education. He is leader of K-12 public education in the state.Mackey attended the A+ College Ready 10-year celebration at Decatur High on Wednesday and sat down with The Decatur Daily for an interview.Question. You have proposed $20 million in security upgrades to Alabama schools. What kind of upgrades are you proposing? Metal detectors? More locks?Answer.
Ban on cellphones in class gains acceptance, but some students miss their music
Twenty-five students sat in Anne Stephenson’s Advanced Placement biology class at Decatur High School last week with their Chromebooks open and their cellphones tucked away in a phone caddy in the corner of the room.No students were texting or playing games on their phone.
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