1/24- Florida’s Democrats facing race rebellion- Associated Press; Article states that Florida's Democratic Party faced a rebellion in its ranks for removing a black man as its next state House leader in favor of a white woman. In April 1997, Rep Willie Logan was designated to be the next Democratic leader of the GOP-controlled chamber after the 1998 elections. On January 7, he was replaced by Rep Anne Mackenzie under the claim that Logan did not raise enough money to help elect Democrats and regain control of the house. At least one union made of teachers and staff threatened to withhold cash contributions to the party because of Logan's removal.

1/27- Columnist speaks on racism at VSU- Dean Polling; Columnist for Valdosta Daily Times, Bill Maxwell, speaks at Valdosta State University's Diversity Lecture Series on January 26, 1998. Maxwell disucssed the end of racism and the steps needed to head towards reconciliation of racism.

January 1998- Events honoring King start today- Staff Reports; Article discusses the events for the 13th annual King Celebration sponsored by the local Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Committee.