All tagged column

Mike Parker: Was I was doing it all wrong?

I recently heard a news report about the push to change how teachers grade their students’ work from a points-based system to a standard-based evaluation. Part of the ideas behind this push for “equity” in grading includes allowing retakes for tests, multiple revisions for essays, and eliminating behavioral considerations such as late work and absences as part of grades.

Mike Parker: Bell diary recounts POW’s experiences

When Angie Reid and Karen Nethercutt approached me with a proposal to reread and correct errors in Lt. Alonzo Etheridge Bell’s diary, I had mixed emotions. I felt flattered they believed I could manage this task. I had misgivings I could complete what others had already attempted. Still, I took on the charge with excitement and trepidation. 

Cooking with Tammy Kelly: Okra season is here!

Okra is beginning to show up at your local Farmers Market and roadside stands and when it is ripe and ready it is also quite abundant.  Okra is either one of those vegetables that you love or you simply love to hate. Known for its scrubby texture when overcooked, okra is actually crunchy, crisp, and absolutely delicious when handled properly.