Top local stories of 2007

Published 12:00 am Monday, December 31, 2007

Top news stories

City prepares for Clinton, Obama

February: Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y., and Sen. Barak Obama, D-Ill., have both confirmed and plan to be in Selma in celebration of the 13th Annual Bridge Crossing Jubilee.

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Carter resigns: City schools superintendent reaches agreement with BOE

March: In an emotionally charged and cramped boardroom, Selma City Schools Superintendent Dr. James Carter submitted his resignation to the Board of Education Wednesday night. And the tears flowed.

DEVASTATION: One dead, homes destroyed after tornado touches down

March: MILLERS FERRY &045; One man was killed and 30 to 40 homes were destroyed when a tornado touched down in a residential area in Millers Ferry Thursday.

Police chief resigns

June: Selma Police Chief Jimmy Martin has resigned.

He said he wanted to spend more time with his family, and with his pastoral ministry.

Voters will cast ballots in bond issue election

November: Registered voters here will have the opportunity to decide a $12.3 million bond issue in February.

An up-close look at City Superintendent candidates

November: And then th ere were five. The Selma City Board of Education has narrowed the slate of 12 candidates for superintendent down to five. They consist of homegrown products and several others from around the state.

Police study released

December: The consultant hired to conduct a $48,000 police study unveiled his recommendations publicly Monday.

Top business news

A new day: An exclusive interview with Dick Morthland on changes at a local institution

October: He admits his departure could have been conceived as being ousted, with the bank’s stock price down, and members of the board of directors considering &8220;going in a different direction.&8221;

Emergystat files for bankruptcy

October: The parent company of Dallas County’s ambulance service has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, but that won’t stop service.

Dixie Pellets needs new road

November: The Dallas County Commission may have to dig deeper in county coffers to help a new industry build a road.

Welcome back, St. James

December: &8220;Soon. Real soon.&8221; Those are the words of Bill Ezell, general manager of the St. James Hotel, on when exactly the opening day of the hotel’s recently renovated restaurant and bar will be.

Bush Hog consolidates local facilities

December: In an attempt to salvage its operation and local jobs, Bush Hog is opting to put $11 million dollars into consolidating the Selfield and downtown facilities.