Year-end news stories: 16 in ‘16

     It’s that time of the year again; time to share our top stories for 2016.

     I started my list with 68 stories I felt were worthy of our “16 in ‘16” feature, which will be published in our Jan. 4 issue of the Express. Then, the task of narrowing those down… First, I picked one story from each month. That left four more to add to the list.

     This week, Sports Editor Pete Temple and I will give you a sneak peek into the top 16 stories the Monticello Express has covered in 2016. (My list is part of my column. Turn to the sports pages to read Pete’s list within his column as well.)

     Before we publish a more in-depth article on Jan. 4, we want to hear from you, our loyal readers. After taking into account our list of 16 (which will be ranked chronologically), are there stories we may have left out that you feel are worthy of mention? What do you remember or recall about the stories we did include? What do you think makes these events important to Monticello, or our greater coverage area? Do/did you have a personal connection to any of these stories?

     Please share your thoughts and comments with us by noon, Wednesday, Dec. 28. Send them to kbrooks@monticelloexpress.com. You can also mail your comments to P.O. Box 191, Monticello, IA 52310, or stop in our office at 111 E. Grand St. You can include your name or submit anonymously as well. Names will be published, if you choose, in the Express, along with your comments on Jan. 4. We look forward to hearing from you!

     And now, without further adieu, here are the top 16 news story headlines from 2016:

     “Chris Anderson steps down as MSCD superintendent.” (Jan. 13)

     “Jones Co. voters take part in Iowa Caucuses.” End-of-the-night results showed Democrats were split between Sanders and Clinton. A strong GOP turnout favored Cruz. (Feb. 3)

     “MCSD welcomed new Superintendent Jaeger.” (March 30)

     “Walnut Acres Campground becomes part of Jellystone Park franchise.” Yogi Bear comes to Monticello. (April 6)

     “JRMC unveils new 20,000 square feet expansion/renovation project.” (May 11)

     “Monticello gets a hotel.” Boulders Inn & Suites opens its doors. (May 18)

     “Renaissance Center, public library celebrates 10 years.” (June 8)

     “Cassidy Moore, Ailee Langdon crowned 2016 GJCF Queen, Princess.” (July 27)

     “F&M Bank robbed.” Two days later, the suspect, Brandon Brown, was arrested for armed robbery. (Aug. 3)

     “Armed robbery reported outside Citizens State Bank.” This incident took place three days following the F&M Bank robbery. (Aug. 10)

     “Downtown pocket park opens to public.” (Aug. 24)

     “A team of engineers from University of Colorado studies historic Ely Stone Bridge.” (Sept. 14)

     “Businesses closed, residents evacuated for gas leak.” (Sept. 21)

     “New animal shelter opens in Monticello.” Animal Welfare Foundation’s dream and years of planning and fundraising becomes a reality. (Oct. 19)

     “Republicans nationwide, statewide win General Election.” (Nov. 16)

     “County Engineer, supervisors hear support for saving Ely Stone Bridge.” (Dec. 7 and Dec. 21)

     That’s all she wrote… Now let us know your thoughts by Dec. 28!