My View
Eye on the Budget – by Whitman Parker
My View – May 2023
Successful municipalities run on tight budgets…something our city staff and council have mastered due to our small tax base. At its April 13 Budget Committee meeting, staff presented their 3-year budget […]
Unleashing a “Spring” of Events – by Whitman Parker
My View – April 2023
On the heels of this winter’s weather, it’s a pleasure to see signs of spring in the air… and in the garden. Luckily for us, […]
Dedicated to Dirk – by Whitman Parker
My View – March 2023
When I heard the news that Dirk Siedlecki had passed away, a piece of my heart broke. Dirk was one of “those” guys—one you admire right off the bat and like […]
A Sea of Changes – by Whitman Parker
My View – February 2023
A slew of regional changes has caught everyone’s attention recently, blowing up social media and sounding the alarm as to the future of our community. Here in town, the new owners […]
Happy Holidays… and Thank You – by Whitman Parker
My View – December 2022/January 2023
It’s the most wonderful time of year in town—having counted our blessings at Thanksgiving, it’s time to celebrate Victorian Christmas with a long list of must-do community activities and events. […]
On the Election – and Larry! – by Whitman Parker
My View – November 2022
If you haven’t yet returned your mail-in ballot, I’d like to remind you that I have endorsed three candidates for Jacksonville City Council: Ken Gregg,
It’s Gregg, Hellenthal and Hess for Council – by Whitman Parker
My View – October 2022
Having covered City Council races since 2008, I’m familiar with what makes a good candidate and ultimately an effective councilor. This time around, I encourage you to vote for Ken Gregg, […]
Remembering Jim Lewis
My View – September 2022
On August 8, 2022, the community was devastated by the news that Jacksonville City Councilor Jim Lewis had unexpectedly passed away. For many of us, Jim was a mentor, a rock, […]
Rising Costs of Fire Safety – by Andrea Thompson, Jacksonville City Councilor
Jacksonville Review – August 2022
If you ask residents what they enjoy most about living in our city, the answers are pleasantly varied. Some cite the small-town atmosphere or the presence of the Woodlands Trails system. […]
Various Thoughts – by Whitman Parker
My View – June 2022
This month, I wanted to circle back around and touch base on a few perennial topics that are always on my mind. During the first week of June, town will see […]