Only 6.9% of Walker County residents still qualify for unemployment benefits. Don’t be fooled by the way this is presented, and remember it’s the core of Bebe’s reelection strategy.

Heiskell doesn’t have a coherent plan for economic growth or attracting new businesses. Any new serious jobs in the county are likely in spite of her, not because of her – she could just as well take credit for the sun rising in the sky, or the price of gasoline. And many of the county’s new jobs pay much less than the ones we’ve lost. Is Walker County better off now than it was five years ago? Or ten? Maybe if you live in Chickamauga, but in LaFayette the answer is definitely “no.”

Meanwhile, Bebe’s supporters (and even her own secretary) can’t come up with reasons to vote for her beyond “because we told you to.”

James Benson was sentenced to life Thursday, after pleading guilty to January’s double murder at Hutcheson. He will be eligible for parole in 30 years, when he’s 89 years old.

From CatWalkChatt, 05/17/12:

“In court today, Benson explained how he shot the two women, which is required when a defendant pleads guilty. District attorney Herbert ‘Buzz’ Franklin said Benson offered no apology and showed no remorse during his explanation. At least eight family members were present at today’s proceedings, he said.

“Franklin said he is satisfied with the outcome of the case. ‘The families have been through a great deal of stress,’ Franklin said. ‘They have suffered through the loss of family members and experienced health-related problems as a result of this case.'”

“Memorial Day” music festival in downtown LaFayette this weekend. A week before Memorial Day weekend. Saturday the 19th, starting at 10 AM. Musical acts will include “Dave Gibson and Daisy Dern” and Little Texas along with local bands and vendors. 706 639 9250 for info.

Finally we get to see what the city’s new rail car looks like. It’s going to require a lot of TLC.

The LaFayette caboose everybody forgot about is in much better shape.

Watch out for bears? Ursine observations have been made in Summerville and Rome.

Chattanooga Times Free Press: Postal Service announces mass layoffs

People hate Walmart, but there have been non-local chain stores putting small businesses (and each other) out of business for a hundred years. Sears was to the 1930’s what Walmart was to the 1990’s.. Woolworths, Sears, K-Mart, Walmart, on and on. That said, try to spend some money at home in locally-owned stores and restaurants when you have a chance.

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Daily Updates will resume on Monday. Have a wonderful weekend.