Island Packet and Beaufort Gazette Blogs

It likely will be seven to nine months before versions of the Marine Corps’ variant of the Joint Strike Fighter will undergo test flights, Marine Corps Commandant Gen. James Conway told the Senate Armed Services Committee on June 4.

Conway told Congress that jets being built by defense giant Lockheed Martin are expected to be ready for testing this fall, but claimed the delay would not affect when the jet would enter service. The first of the Corps’ short-takeoff, vertical-landing variants of the jet are scheduled to be delivered in 2012, according to the Corps.

Mayor Billy Keyserling sent an e-mail to constituents outlining what he considers benefits of outsourcing city residential garbage, yard debris and recycling collection. City council will likely discuss the issue at its Tuesday meeting, scheduled for 6 p.m. at the new city court building on Boundary Street. The e-mail reads:

Outsourcing Garbage, Yard Debris and Recycling!
City Council will soon decide whether or not to outsource the collection of garbage, recycling and yard debris. I think it is important to share available facts, my view on the issue and answer any outstanding questions. If you like to review the data, it can be found on the http://www.cityofbeaufort.org> City of Beaufort website.

A recent article in the American Journalism Review provides much insight into how journalists are using Twitter and speculates how the industry might continue to incorporate it and other social networking sites.

Hilton Head Humane Association is hosting an adoption event at Oldfield from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 20. Bring the whole family, including your pooch. The event will include “Best Dressed” and “Best Trick” contests for dogs in attendance. Hot dogs and lemonade will be served, and animals in need of homes will be available for adoption.