Op-Ed Columns

Who would you name as Alabamian of the Year?

We'd like to know, because at the start of 2009 The Anniston Star's editorial board will name its Alabamian of the Year.

Your nominations, along with a brief explanation of your candidate's qualifications, are encouraged. A note of caution: Nominations are merely that; this is not a popularity contest where the person with the most nominations wins.

Before getting to defining qualified candidates, let us give credit where it's due. The editorial board of the Dallas Morning News has named a Texan of the Year since 2003. Last week, I e-mailed Keven Ann Wiley, Morning News editorial page editor, to admit my thievery and solicit advice. She encouraged us to go forward, offering pointers on how to proceed.

So with a clear conscience, here's a little more about the qualifications of Alabamian of the Year (AOY).

Our definition is, "An Alabamian (or Alabamians) who has made a significant mark on events over the past year; someone who lived up to the state creed's dictate 'to foster her advancement within the statehood of the world.'"

While deeds done in 2008 will be in full view, no person's life can be reduced to a single year. In other words, our AOY's lifetime achievements will be considered.

Politicians still in office won't be considered, though those retired to private life are eligible.

Living out of state is not a disqualifier. Many of Alabama's native sons and daughters have left the Yellowhammer State yet continue to bring honor to it.

There you have it. Send those nominations our way. See the attached box for details.

CHAT AWAY: On Wednesday, The Star's Sports department led an online chat at www.annistonstar.com/ironbowl. The topic, naturally, was the annual Auburn-Alabama game. Live online chat, while a staple at many news organizations, is relatively new for us. We were pleased with this first try, and expect to keep on improving.

BY THE BOOK: Work on The Model City: Blast to Present continues. The hardcover book binds together this summer's five special sections marking Anniston's 125th birthday. The book will be available for purchase next month. Looking over proof pages last week, I was struck how presentation editor Tosha Jupiter has designed a beautiful book. The project, including more than 25 videos, archival audio and an interactive timeline, is available at www.annistonstar.com/celebrate125.

MORE ON MONDAY: Several readers offered ideas for The Star to consider in giving our Monday paper a makeover. They are appreciated. If you have an idea for changes you'd like to see in the Monday edition, drop me a line.

Alabamian of the Year

Were looking for: An Alabamian (or Alabamians) who has made a significant mark on events over the past year; someone who lived up to the state creed's dictate "to foster her advancement within the statehood of the world."

Send us your nominations and a brief description about why he or she is most qualified. Please include your name, city and contact information; we won't publish anything more than your name and city of residence with your nomination.

Send them to:

Fax: (256) 241-1991.

Mail: Box 189, Anniston, AL 36202.

E-mail: speakout@annistonstar.com.