Opionion pieces published in The Messenger’s Online Edition during September 1999 included:
Published 12:00 am Wednesday, September 11, 2002
September 3, 1999
Editorial:
Some crimes deserve worthy punishment
There has been no trial, nor has there been any evidence presented. And until Thursday there had been no arrest. Perhaps for the first time since two Dothan girls were found murdered many people will be able to sleep a little easier at night.
Column: Amy Lansdon
Sometimes dogs are trouble for patient dog lovers
I know that the majority of my columns are about my dogs. And maybe one day the fascination I have with my dogs will wear off or either I will have children. But until then you will probably be updated about the antics of my canines on a regular basis.
September 5, 1999
Editorial:
Course in hunter safety makes sense
A hunter education course was recently held in Troy to teach novice hunters the importance of hunter safety.
September 9, 1999
Editorial:
Voting should be a priviledge, not an obligation
The Alabama Education Lottery vote is just around the corner, and it’s time to make a decision about whether you are for or against a state lottery in Alabama.
September 12, 1999
Editorial:
Brundidge job losses show
continued need to recruit business
The work of the Pike County Chamber of Commerce is never complete.
September 14, 1999
Editorial:
Alabama should have licensed
inspector for fairs rides
Many people, young and old alike, look forward to fall for football season and state and county fairs. Football season is already upon us and the exciting state and county fairs are already being advertised.
September 15, 1999
Editorial:
Prayer at flag poles is refreshing thing
On your way to work and school this morning, you may notice something out of the ordinary.
Column: Fran Sharp
Geezette brand proves more stubborn than dirt
Falling into the "older than dirt" category makes one want to struggle to his feet and get clean again. Alas, once you’ve been branded a "geezer" (or geezette) by the Internet, the stain is forever there.
September 16, 1999
Editorial:
Farmers have paid enough for ’99 drought
State officials are considering requesting 65 of 67 counties in the state of Alabama be declared federal disaster areas for the purposes of financial relief due to this summer’s drought.
Column: Michelle Wilson
Food court addition packs sentimental punch
The dedication of the Trojan Express food court Wednesday at Troy State University was truly a festive occasion.
September 16, 1999
Editorial:
More weather sirens benefit entire county
Storms stirring up in the tropics have recently had people from the East Coast fleeing inland, and more than once have had Pike County residents concerned about the storms heading our way.
Column: Amy Lansdon
Birthday fun leads to discovering addiction
I have left the issue of the lottery alone for a long time. But now I want to make three statements concerning the lottery and that will be all. 1) I will vote yes to the lottery bill, 2) I will vote yes because I want my children to have the opportunity to go to college free, and 3) I hope the lottery doesn’t lead to legalized gambling because I can’t even handle AdventureLand. With that said let me tell you why I fear legalized gambling and why I can never go to Las Vegas or Biloxi.
September 19, 1999
Editorial:
Lives and property depend on
following new ‘no burn’ order
The drought emergency, no burn order and fire alert are serious business.
Column: Amanda Bradley
Salamanders make tricky prey for hunters
There it was. I had heard about it but had not had the opportunity to see it yet. It was bigger than I had imagined. A lot longer than had originally been mentioned. It was shiny with stripes.
September 21, 1999
Editorial:
Removing trade barriers between
nations brings job loss to south Alabama
There seems to be little doubt that free trade agreements have contributed to the significant loss of Alabama businesses and industries.
Column: Amanda Bradley
Children need a strong Christian foundation
I believe that some of the "old ways" are the best ways. I believe in "if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it." Therefore I tend to get on the preverbial "soapbox" every now and then on some issues.
September 22, 1999
Editorial:
New city utility ordinance keeps taxpayers in mind
At its last meeting, the Troy City Council did a good thing by changing the utility ordinance.
September 23, 1999
Editorial:
This week, families, community
unite to support schools
If ever there was a week for fans to support their local schools and sports teams, this is it.
Column: Michelle Wilson
Falling temperatures bring gardening chores
As temperatures start to cool this week, I have begun thinking about one of my favorite times of year – autumn.
September 24, 1999
Editorial:
Penalty for gruesome murders should be death
No level of punishment can take away the horror of a crime once it has been committed.
September 28, 1999
Editorial:
Prayer, meditation has its place in schools
Prayer. It is an important part of many people’s lives, but does it have it’s place in our schools?
Column: Amanda Bradley
Broken speed limits, belting out
fight song all part of game day
Well, this weekend was a first for me. I don’t know if I like it or not, but I guess things have to change. It felt weird to just be sitting there, watching the action.
September 29, 1999
Editorial:
Arts Council improves quality of life in Troy
With the start of school comes another familiar tradition in Pike County – a new season for the Troy Council on the Arts & Humanities.
Column: Fran Sharp
Little lies sown can reap big problems
Unlike beauty, truth is not in the eye of the beholder. If one believes what one hears from the White House these days, truth is relative.
September 30, 1999
Editorial:
Lottery forum was invaluable to public
What happened Tuesday night at the Pike County Courthouse was the process of education in motion for an adult audience.
Column: Michelle Wilson
Lottery plan would help Alabama students
Earlier this week, the Alabama Association of University women hosted a lottery forum at which foes of Gov. Don Siegelman’s Alabama Lottery for Education criticized the program, which would fund college scholarships.