Orange County - Top Stories of 2006

The Chapel Hill News has asked readers for opinions on the top local stories for 2006.

The story missed is the resignation of Gregg Jarvies after 31 years of police service. The Chapel Hill police chief's departure, coupled with the announced retirement of Durham police chief, Steve Chalmers next year, and recent problems in the Raleigh police department may mean a serious public safety leadership vacuum for the Triangle in 2007.

In no particular order here are my comments on the editors' suggestions at CHN:

Stories worth recapping:

1. The Apple Chill Shootings: So what have we learned from all this? (see Halloween bash and Festifall)

2. Chatham Elections: I don't live in Chatham County, but I would think the accelerated growth in that area is news worthy.

3. Dancing Ban at Carr Mill Mall: Freedom of expression; Ya Baby! Bruce is king! Saw him yesterday at Weaver street, he never looked happier.



4. Town Council approval of Lot 5: While acknowledging this is a tricky issue, it passed and I am not in favor of it. Will Raymond has covered this well.

Stories that - while interesting - still have not played out

1. Gun Violence in Orange County - two isolated incidents do not a trend make.

2. John McCormick - Wake me when they catch the guy.

3. New Hotel on Franklin - It's not open yet, it's a skimpy month behind schedule... what's the story?

And finally, these are not stories

1. Rodney Murray - a tragedy, leave it at that.

2. John Bunting / Butch Davis - Talk about over coverage... Enough already!

3. Elections - Orange changes voting districts! Baddour beats Stein! Paint dries on Wall!

4. Kidzu - A museum the size of a bathroom stall opens downtown... zzzzzzzzz