Editorial - October 2001

The OTHER terror

Oct. 26 - The Sept. 11 attacks on American have taken their toll on our sense of security and peace at home but here in Lincolnton and across the state another enemy is stalking our workforce and ravaging our pocketbook. It’s our anemic economy. A little more than a year ago we bragged about our economy, even gloated over it. Stocks kept going up and  unemployment levels were at record lows. Now, we are wondering when all the layoffs will stop and when the sales will pick up. Each day we hear reports of new, massive layoffs and shutdowns.

You’ve got mail

Oct. 17 - There aren’t any likely terrorist targets in Lincolnton. We don’t expect a 727 to crash into the Citizens Center. But we are edgy. Business is off in Lincolnton, just like it is everywhere else. We are putting off some trips, canceling others. We are spending more time at church. A few of us are frightened by our own mail.

Lincoln schools show steady improvement

Oct. 10 - Congratulations to six Lincoln County schools meeting the “School of Distinction” criteria by having 80 percent of students meeting proficiency standards: North Brook, Pumpkin Center, Rock Springs and Union elementary schools and Pumpkin Center Middle School. The top performer was Rock Springs, with 86.7 percent of its students meeting or exceeding the standards. Besides the students themselves, credit goes to the principals and teachers for this very important achievement. Lincoln Charter School has also earned the “Distinction” status.