Today's Opinions

As almost everyone around here will tell him – and by his own admission, he appears to understand – Shawn Pickens has a big job ahead of him.

In taking over as the new director of Shelby County Parks & Recreation, Mr. Pickens not only inherits a complicated and growing task of managing resources and manpower to meet an ever-growing need and opportunity, but he also steps into the boots and sneakers of a man who spent has spent his life building that system, Clay Cottongim.

Two men died recently who were a credit to their families, their community and their country.

I recall a defining moment about each man, one of which I witnessed and the other that was related to me.

Roy Lyons was an easy man to know. He loved to play golf, visit with friends at the local coffee cup and attend the Upper Room Bible class. He also taught Sunday school at one time. But what I remember most about him was his service to this nation as a highly decorated U. S. Marine.

Members of Young Leaders Institute experienced Education Day last month, when they visited Collins High School, Simpsonville Elementary, and Cornerstone Christian Academy.

At Collins they heard testimonies from students about how they are ready for the future because they have met or are on track to meet their BIG Goals. Josh Rice made it clear that “very unique opportunities in Shelby County Public Schools have helped me become college and career ready.” He named Student Technology Leadership Program, Technology Student Association and Project Lead The Way.