News Staff

News Staff

Kyle Troutman: A last hurrah for journalism

It’s been a big year for local journalism. In July, I attended the International Society of Weekly Newspaper Editors conference, where I accepted a Golden Dozen award for column-writing, and just a few weeks ago, I attended the Missouri Press Association conference and accepted more than 50 awards on mine and my staff’s behalf.

Jon Horner: A plan for Christmas gift-buying

When Kyle asked me to do a monthly column regarding finance I told him that I would try not to bore people too much, since that category can be less than exciting. So today, I will start off with discussing the correlation between the federal reserve interest rate moves and the associated impact on the gross domestic product. Just kidding, please continue to read. I definitely wouldn’t go near that topic with a tenfoot pole.

Bob Mitchell: Before sidewalks were plentiful

Long before sidewalks were as plentiful as they are today, those that were in existence were open game for a lot of things, including art, skating and sometimes even mischief. Those who objected to their use were most likely to have graffiti to clean at one time or the other.

News briefs

A comedic, murder mystery, a classic who dunnit of thoroughly entertaining proportions takes center stage in the upcoming SKITS community theater production of “Murder in The House of Horrors.” The audience is invited into the museums lecture on famous Egyptian Pharaoh Menkaura’s tomb, which is laden with priceless treasures, but shrouded in mystery as a most coveted jewel is stolen and an unlikely murder is committed. This audience interaction murder mystery will have everyone fully engaged trying to guess who did this outrageous deed and why? A total of 15 actors, with some added extras, and an assembly of stage-builders, artists, sound and lighting personnel, line-readers, marketing folks and well, of course, a dedicated and inspiring director are again making this another fun and entertaining production.

Kyle Troutman: Mourning on the surface

A weekend rife with anticipation turned into one of sorrow and grief, as the KISS Rebreathers dive team exploring the Roaring River spring lost one of its members. Eric Hahn, 27, of Blacksburg, Va., died in the water on Friday, possibly from the effects of oxygen toxicity due to a personal air tank with an improper mixture. He was recovered more than four hours later from more than 200 feet below the water’s surface.