By Jonathan Hardison
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Wildlife experts are on standby this weekend as they wait to see if or when they'll be needed to assist with animals injured or affected by the massive oil spill heading towards the Gulf Coast.
Volunteers and staff at the Alabama Wildlife Rehabilitation Center spend hours each day feeding young birds who've been injured or forced from their habitat. This weekend, those same volunteers could wipe oil from animals along the path of the giant oil slick approaching the Gulf Coast.
"We are on standby, but we are preparing," said Beth Bloomfield, executive director of the center. "We've called up our volunteers who have experience working with oiled wildlife and they will mobilize if needed."
Several of the center's staff members have worked with oiled animals before, so the center is ready to train more volunteers and notify volunteer transporters from across the state to bring birds or other affected animals to the center if needed.
"It looks very likely that we will be involved, that the need will be great, and will last for some time," Bloomfield said.
"This is going to require a major response," said Dr. Clayton Hilton, a veterinarian at the Birmingham Zoo.
Dr. Hilton is already clearing his calendar for next week, anticipating a call from the coast.
"This is the breeding season for a lot of birds," Hilton said. "There are a lot of young birds that, if their parents died, they won't be able to be fed, they won't make it. Let alone, what it's going to do to the shellfish industry, it's going to be devastating."
Dr. Hilton says the leading experts in the country when it comes to dealing with oil-affected wildlife are already in Louisiana because of how bad they think this could be.
"It's really important for everyone to know that the need will be greatest down the road," Bloomfield said. "Right now there's nothing to do but standby and offer our good wishes, but the need will go on for some time. So it's good to make plans now if you can on how you may be able to help down the road."
The Wildlife Rehab Center plans to keep its staff near the phones all weekend and will have updated information on their website and Facebook page throughout this potential crisis.
www.awrc.org/
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Bessemer police get portion of confiscated drug money
BESSEMER, AL (WBRC) - Bessemer police are benefitting from drug money.
Last year, an officer found more than a million dollars during a stop on Interstate 20-59. After a few legal hoops, federal agents released the money back to the department.
The department will get around $900,000.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Last year, an officer found more than a million dollars during a stop on Interstate 20-59. After a few legal hoops, federal agents released the money back to the department.
The department will get around $900,000.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Suspect in Tuscaloosa Officer Involved Shooting Jailed
By Kelvin Reynolds
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - The suspect involved in an officer shooting in Tuscaloosa is out the hospital and in jail. Jail records from the Tuscaloosa County jail show 24-year-old Antonio Guyton has been booked on robbery charges. His bond is set at $60,000.
On Monday April 20th, members of the Tuscaloosa Metro Homicide Unit were serving arrest warrants on Guyton. Police Chief Steven Anderson and Sheriff Ted Sexton said when officers went to a home where Guyton was staying and announced themselves, he came to the door carrying a gun and fired at least one shot. Authorities returned fire and struck Guyton at least twice.
Court records indicate Guyton was out of jail on bond on two separate robberies at the time of the shooting.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - The suspect involved in an officer shooting in Tuscaloosa is out the hospital and in jail. Jail records from the Tuscaloosa County jail show 24-year-old Antonio Guyton has been booked on robbery charges. His bond is set at $60,000.
On Monday April 20th, members of the Tuscaloosa Metro Homicide Unit were serving arrest warrants on Guyton. Police Chief Steven Anderson and Sheriff Ted Sexton said when officers went to a home where Guyton was staying and announced themselves, he came to the door carrying a gun and fired at least one shot. Authorities returned fire and struck Guyton at least twice.
Court records indicate Guyton was out of jail on bond on two separate robberies at the time of the shooting.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Charges filed on Homewood home burglary suspects
HOMEWOOD, AL (WBRC) - Charges have been filed against two men accused of burglarizing homes in Homewood earlier this week, including one home where the homeowner chased them away with a gun.
Homewood Police said Broderickus Carmichael, 25, of Birmingham, and James Crum, 23, of Midfield, have been charged with attempted burglary, burglary, theft of property, and possession of burglary tools.
Homewood Police said they received a burglary call around 8:53 a.m. Wednesday morning. Upon arriving at the home on Bristol Lane in the Camden Place subdivision, the homeowner told police two men had tried to break into the home but ran away after she pointed her gun at the suspects.
The suspects fled and made an attempt to break into a second house on Ivy Circle. At this point, police spotted the suspects. One suspect immediately surrendered to police, but the other ran into the house and began a standoff against police inside the home.
The standoff lasted for more than two hours until police were able to get inside. They found the suspect hiding under a couch.
No one was hurt.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Homewood Police said Broderickus Carmichael, 25, of Birmingham, and James Crum, 23, of Midfield, have been charged with attempted burglary, burglary, theft of property, and possession of burglary tools.
Homewood Police said they received a burglary call around 8:53 a.m. Wednesday morning. Upon arriving at the home on Bristol Lane in the Camden Place subdivision, the homeowner told police two men had tried to break into the home but ran away after she pointed her gun at the suspects.
The suspects fled and made an attempt to break into a second house on Ivy Circle. At this point, police spotted the suspects. One suspect immediately surrendered to police, but the other ran into the house and began a standoff against police inside the home.
The standoff lasted for more than two hours until police were able to get inside. They found the suspect hiding under a couch.
No one was hurt.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
2-alarm fire under control by Birmingham Fire and Rescue
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Firefighters battled a huge blaze in Birmingham on Friday morning. They received a call around 5:00 a.m. to a home on 29th Street North and 15th Avenue.
Birmingham Fire and Rescue says that the building was a vacant two-story house suffering a 2-alarm fire. It received around 75% damage.
Firefighters were able to get the fire under control at 6:30 a.m.
The house next door received minor damage to its siding.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham Fire and Rescue says that the building was a vacant two-story house suffering a 2-alarm fire. It received around 75% damage.
Firefighters were able to get the fire under control at 6:30 a.m.
The house next door received minor damage to its siding.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Gardendale First Baptist suffers significant damage from fire
GARDENDALE, AL (WBRC) - State Fire Marshall Ed Paulk confirms there was a church fire at Gardendale's 1st Baptist Church at 2:45 a.m.
Paulk says the church's sanctuary was not destroyed, but there was significant damage.
There has been an arrest of a 46-year-old male and Paulk expects him to be charged with arson.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Paulk says the church's sanctuary was not destroyed, but there was significant damage.
There has been an arrest of a 46-year-old male and Paulk expects him to be charged with arson.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
McWane plant idled in Birmingham
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - McWane, Incorporated in Birmingham has announced that it will temporarily idle production at the plant. The company says the idling will affect about 117 workers. It blames the idling on the slumping economy and housing sector.
A statement by the company says demand for waterworks products has dropped as much as 55%.
McWane says it will offer job placement services, counseling and other assistance to employees.
While production at the Birmingham plant is suspended, the company says it will continue to serve customers from its other plants in Utah, Ohio and New Jersey and from inventory at the Birmingham plant.
McWane says it will also maintain the Birmingham plant in a condition that will allow a speedy restart when production resumes.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
A statement by the company says demand for waterworks products has dropped as much as 55%.
McWane says it will offer job placement services, counseling and other assistance to employees.
While production at the Birmingham plant is suspended, the company says it will continue to serve customers from its other plants in Utah, Ohio and New Jersey and from inventory at the Birmingham plant.
McWane says it will also maintain the Birmingham plant in a condition that will allow a speedy restart when production resumes.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Two people stabbed in Anniston
ANNISTON, AL (WBRC) - Two people are in an Anniston hospital recovering from stab wounds on Friday morning.
Anniston police answered an assault call on North Marshall Street around 6:00 Thursday evening. They say they found two people stabbed.
Both were taken to Regional Medical Center in Anniston. There is no word on their condition.
Officers have made one arrest in the case.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Anniston police answered an assault call on North Marshall Street around 6:00 Thursday evening. They say they found two people stabbed.
Both were taken to Regional Medical Center in Anniston. There is no word on their condition.
Officers have made one arrest in the case.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Lawmakers to testify next week over e-bingo bill investigation
By Alan Collins
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - Up to fifty state legislators and lobbyists are expected to appear before a federal grand jury meeting in Montgomery next week.
Federal investigators are looking into allegations of bribery involving passage of the bill to legalize electronic bingo. Alabama lawmakers were informed earlier that federal investigators had significant evidence of wrong doing.
Larry Powell, UAB political analyst, says the probe could shake up the Alabama Statehouse. "The pro gambling interest leans to the Democrats side. Because of that, the Republicans will try to tie the investigation to the entire party," Powell said.
Phillip Bryan with the Alabama Republican Party says part of their campaign strategy will point to Democrats as the reason why ethics and campaign reform has failed. "The gambling scenario, corruption scenario is a byproduct of the ethics reform message Republicans have pushed with the governor and the Democratic majority has failed to act on it," Phillips said.
Republicans and Democrats have been subpoenaed to appear before the grand jury. One is Prattville Rep. Mac Gibson. The Republican lawmaker knows little of the alleged bribes, but he is worried about the impact of the subpoena. "Disconcerting. I do have an opponent running for re-election. It certainly doesn't help to have a federal subpoena," Gibson said.
State Rep. John Rogers has not been subpoenaed but Rogers says testifying before the grand jury could be a problem for his fellow lawmakers. The Democratic legislator offers this bit of advice. "Saying, ‘I didn't do anything wrong.’ I'm cooperating with what's going on and get a lawyer. A good lawyer," Rogers said.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - Up to fifty state legislators and lobbyists are expected to appear before a federal grand jury meeting in Montgomery next week.
Federal investigators are looking into allegations of bribery involving passage of the bill to legalize electronic bingo. Alabama lawmakers were informed earlier that federal investigators had significant evidence of wrong doing.
Larry Powell, UAB political analyst, says the probe could shake up the Alabama Statehouse. "The pro gambling interest leans to the Democrats side. Because of that, the Republicans will try to tie the investigation to the entire party," Powell said.
Phillip Bryan with the Alabama Republican Party says part of their campaign strategy will point to Democrats as the reason why ethics and campaign reform has failed. "The gambling scenario, corruption scenario is a byproduct of the ethics reform message Republicans have pushed with the governor and the Democratic majority has failed to act on it," Phillips said.
Republicans and Democrats have been subpoenaed to appear before the grand jury. One is Prattville Rep. Mac Gibson. The Republican lawmaker knows little of the alleged bribes, but he is worried about the impact of the subpoena. "Disconcerting. I do have an opponent running for re-election. It certainly doesn't help to have a federal subpoena," Gibson said.
State Rep. John Rogers has not been subpoenaed but Rogers says testifying before the grand jury could be a problem for his fellow lawmakers. The Democratic legislator offers this bit of advice. "Saying, ‘I didn't do anything wrong.’ I'm cooperating with what's going on and get a lawyer. A good lawyer," Rogers said.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Briarwood Christian School honors fallen hero
By Melanie Posey
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Flags flew at half staff Wednesday morning in front of the Briarwood Christian School. They were doing so in honor of Lance Corporal Thomas Rivers.
After graduating from the school in 2007, Rivers joined the Marine Corps. He served one tour in Iraq. Then, while serving in Afghanistan, Rivers was killed by a roadside bomb Tuesday morning.
“It's difficult because on one hand, we're so sad and on the other hand, we're so proud because Thomas Rivers was a real hero,” said Fred Yancey, who serves as Briarwood’s Dean of Students. He also coached Rivers who was part of the football team all four years he was at Briarwood.
Yancey said he died doing what he loved. "They have a reputation of being the toughest and that's what drew Thomas to the Marines, I'm positive,” Yancey said. “He wanted that tough challenge and he wanted the action."
Funeral services for Lance Corporal River are still pending.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Flags flew at half staff Wednesday morning in front of the Briarwood Christian School. They were doing so in honor of Lance Corporal Thomas Rivers.
After graduating from the school in 2007, Rivers joined the Marine Corps. He served one tour in Iraq. Then, while serving in Afghanistan, Rivers was killed by a roadside bomb Tuesday morning.
“It's difficult because on one hand, we're so sad and on the other hand, we're so proud because Thomas Rivers was a real hero,” said Fred Yancey, who serves as Briarwood’s Dean of Students. He also coached Rivers who was part of the football team all four years he was at Briarwood.
Yancey said he died doing what he loved. "They have a reputation of being the toughest and that's what drew Thomas to the Marines, I'm positive,” Yancey said. “He wanted that tough challenge and he wanted the action."
Funeral services for Lance Corporal River are still pending.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Alabama coast worried over incoming oil spill
By Alan Collins
MOBILE, AL (WBRC) - Alabama officials continue to watch an oil spill making its way closer to the gulf coast. The spill is five times larger than expected. Governor Bob Riley in Mobile says weather will play a key role."If according to NOAA forecast, this wind shifts to the southeast, Mississippi and Alabama are going to be affected," Riley said.
On Good Day Alabama, the executive director of the Dauphin Island Sea Lab says if the oil spill moves closer to the state, the seafood industry could take a blow. "We could lose a significant portion of our productive habitats for an unknown period of time. We have never experienced anything like this," George Crozier said.
Officials are moving to burn off some of the oil. The National Weather Service says the burn should have begun last week.
Ships are also trying to capture as much oil as possible."We want to fight this out at sea and not on shore," Riley said.
Many fear the oil spill will not be solved easily."They have not capped this off or slowed it down which they can't do at this point. It will be days, and weeks of a minimum of exposure. Can be three months," Crozier said.
Riley has been in contract with British Petroleum about the cost of any cleanup. "The cost we are going to bare for any act out of the ordinary again would come flow back to the responsible party, which is BP," Riley said
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
MOBILE, AL (WBRC) - Alabama officials continue to watch an oil spill making its way closer to the gulf coast. The spill is five times larger than expected. Governor Bob Riley in Mobile says weather will play a key role."If according to NOAA forecast, this wind shifts to the southeast, Mississippi and Alabama are going to be affected," Riley said.
On Good Day Alabama, the executive director of the Dauphin Island Sea Lab says if the oil spill moves closer to the state, the seafood industry could take a blow. "We could lose a significant portion of our productive habitats for an unknown period of time. We have never experienced anything like this," George Crozier said.
Officials are moving to burn off some of the oil. The National Weather Service says the burn should have begun last week.
Ships are also trying to capture as much oil as possible."We want to fight this out at sea and not on shore," Riley said.
Many fear the oil spill will not be solved easily."They have not capped this off or slowed it down which they can't do at this point. It will be days, and weeks of a minimum of exposure. Can be three months," Crozier said.
Riley has been in contract with British Petroleum about the cost of any cleanup. "The cost we are going to bare for any act out of the ordinary again would come flow back to the responsible party, which is BP," Riley said
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Bomb-like device used to attack Irondale policeman
By Sherea Harris
IRONDALE, AL (WBRC) - Investigators are looking for a suspect they say tried to attack an officer with a bomb-like device.
It happened just before 7:00 at Colonial Village at Trussville Apartments. That's actually part of Irondale, not Trussville.
The Irondale police officer involved in the incident is fine and he's lucky he wasn't seriously hurt.
The officer was sitting in his patrol car, which was parked in the apartment complex. He was working a security guard shift.
At some point, a plastic bottle wrapped in aluminum foil was tossed at his car by someone on foot.
The device hit the pavement next to the officer's car and exploded, sounding like a shotgun blast.
The homemade device is described by authorities as dangerous and similar as a chemical bomb.
The officer was not able to get a good look at the suspect as the person fled on foot.
Police will take the device and process it for evidence.
If the officer had his window down with the device landing inside his car, he could have been seriously hurt.
Police are taking this seriously. The ATF was asked to assist in the investigation.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
IRONDALE, AL (WBRC) - Investigators are looking for a suspect they say tried to attack an officer with a bomb-like device.
It happened just before 7:00 at Colonial Village at Trussville Apartments. That's actually part of Irondale, not Trussville.
The Irondale police officer involved in the incident is fine and he's lucky he wasn't seriously hurt.
The officer was sitting in his patrol car, which was parked in the apartment complex. He was working a security guard shift.
At some point, a plastic bottle wrapped in aluminum foil was tossed at his car by someone on foot.
The device hit the pavement next to the officer's car and exploded, sounding like a shotgun blast.
The homemade device is described by authorities as dangerous and similar as a chemical bomb.
The officer was not able to get a good look at the suspect as the person fled on foot.
Police will take the device and process it for evidence.
If the officer had his window down with the device landing inside his car, he could have been seriously hurt.
Police are taking this seriously. The ATF was asked to assist in the investigation.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Shots fired after suspect uses truck to attack police officer
MORRIS, AL (WBRC) - Morris Police are looking for a man who ran into a police officer with his truck.
Investigators say the officer pulled the suspect over on U.S. Highway 31 near Morris Majestic Road. It happened around 8:15 Thursday night. A chase then started.
They say the suspect stopped. The officer got out of his cruiser. Police say that's when the suspect started to drive away, hitting the officer.
The officer then fired at the truck as the suspect fled.
The officer was taken to the hospital. There's word on his condition.
Police are looking for a white male driving a dark green or black Ford F-350 with a tag that was registered in Talladega County. It starts with 61.
The truck may have bullets holes.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Investigators say the officer pulled the suspect over on U.S. Highway 31 near Morris Majestic Road. It happened around 8:15 Thursday night. A chase then started.
They say the suspect stopped. The officer got out of his cruiser. Police say that's when the suspect started to drive away, hitting the officer.
The officer then fired at the truck as the suspect fled.
The officer was taken to the hospital. There's word on his condition.
Police are looking for a white male driving a dark green or black Ford F-350 with a tag that was registered in Talladega County. It starts with 61.
The truck may have bullets holes.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
18-wheeler wrecks, loses steel coil
HUEYTOWN, AL (WBRC) - A truck wrecked on I-59/20 in Hueytown Thursday, causing a steel coil to roll across the interstate.
State troopers say the 18-wheeler hit a barrier Thursday afternoon on the southbound off-ramp of the Allison-Bonnett Memorial Parkway exit of I-59. The truck rolled over, losing one of the steel coils on the bed of the trailer.
The coil rolled across the interstate and came to a stop in the median.
No other vehicles were involved and no one was hurt.
State troopers are investigating the incident.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
State troopers say the 18-wheeler hit a barrier Thursday afternoon on the southbound off-ramp of the Allison-Bonnett Memorial Parkway exit of I-59. The truck rolled over, losing one of the steel coils on the bed of the trailer.
The coil rolled across the interstate and came to a stop in the median.
No other vehicles were involved and no one was hurt.
State troopers are investigating the incident.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Authorities determine woman's cause of death
GADSDEN, AL (WBRC) - A woman found dead in her front yard Tuesday appears to have died of natural causes.
Etowah County Sheriff Todd Entrekin, in a statement Thursday to FOX6 News, said a preliminary autopsy report had been completed in the death of Betty Jones.
The preliminary report states Jones, 70, died of natural causes. Sheriff Entrekin said during the course of the autopsy there were no signs of foul play.
Sheriff Entrekin said a final autopsy report is pending, waiting on results from toxicology tests.
Betty Jones was found laying in her front yard on Old Sibert Mill Road near Glencoe at approximately 6:00 p.m. Tuesday. Her body was badly decomposed. The body was found by the woman’s family.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Etowah County Sheriff Todd Entrekin, in a statement Thursday to FOX6 News, said a preliminary autopsy report had been completed in the death of Betty Jones.
The preliminary report states Jones, 70, died of natural causes. Sheriff Entrekin said during the course of the autopsy there were no signs of foul play.
Sheriff Entrekin said a final autopsy report is pending, waiting on results from toxicology tests.
Betty Jones was found laying in her front yard on Old Sibert Mill Road near Glencoe at approximately 6:00 p.m. Tuesday. Her body was badly decomposed. The body was found by the woman’s family.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Arrest made in Birmingham's 11th homicide of 2010
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – Birmingham police say they have made an arrest in the 11th homicide of 2010.
37-year-old David Gaines was charged with Capital Murder on Thursday for the shooting of 27-year-old Erica Jean on Tuesday.
Jean died at St. Vincent’s Hospital after she was driven there by Gaines. She was pronounced deceased and Gaines was treated for a gunshot wound.
Investigators believed the shooting stemmed from a domestic argument.
Gaines is now being held in the Jefferson County Jail.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
37-year-old David Gaines was charged with Capital Murder on Thursday for the shooting of 27-year-old Erica Jean on Tuesday.
Jean died at St. Vincent’s Hospital after she was driven there by Gaines. She was pronounced deceased and Gaines was treated for a gunshot wound.
Investigators believed the shooting stemmed from a domestic argument.
Gaines is now being held in the Jefferson County Jail.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Treasure Ship restaurant destroyed by fire
PANAMA CITY BEACH, FL (WBRC) - The Treasure Ship, an iconic restaurant in Panama City Beach, was destroyed by fire Wednesday.
Owners posted the news on the restaurant's website, which said a fire broke out at approximately 3:15 p.m. Wednesday, severely damaging The Treasure Ship.
"Deeply saddened, the owners, management and staff wish to express heartfelt gratitude to Bay County, and the many, many guests who have patronized this grand Panama City Beach icon," the owners wrote on their website. "Thank you for 33 great years!"
The owners and management have asked restaurateurs in Panama City to help find positions for the 150 employees who have lost their jobs. The owners said the Treasure Island Marina will receive employment related calls at (850) 234-6533.
The cause of the fire was not yet known.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Owners posted the news on the restaurant's website, which said a fire broke out at approximately 3:15 p.m. Wednesday, severely damaging The Treasure Ship.
"Deeply saddened, the owners, management and staff wish to express heartfelt gratitude to Bay County, and the many, many guests who have patronized this grand Panama City Beach icon," the owners wrote on their website. "Thank you for 33 great years!"
The owners and management have asked restaurateurs in Panama City to help find positions for the 150 employees who have lost their jobs. The owners said the Treasure Island Marina will receive employment related calls at (850) 234-6533.
The cause of the fire was not yet known.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Midfield police searching for 3 burglary suspects
MIDFIELD, AL (WBRC) – The Midfield Police Department says they are looking for three suspects in connection to a Thursday morning burglary.
According to authorities, the victim of the burglary woke up and noticed items in his house were missing. After find a window open, the homeowner was able to approach the suspects as they were leaving. The suspects then drove at the homeowner and he was stuck in the hand as he stepped out of the way of the car.
Police say they are looking for three black males in a black four-door Jeep Cherokee with part of the tag number being Alabama tag 1B4755.
Call the Midfield Police Department if you have any information on this case.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
According to authorities, the victim of the burglary woke up and noticed items in his house were missing. After find a window open, the homeowner was able to approach the suspects as they were leaving. The suspects then drove at the homeowner and he was stuck in the hand as he stepped out of the way of the car.
Police say they are looking for three black males in a black four-door Jeep Cherokee with part of the tag number being Alabama tag 1B4755.
Call the Midfield Police Department if you have any information on this case.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
GBHS holds weekend Adopt-A-Thon
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – Beginning Friday, April 30th and continuing through Sunday, May 2nd, the Greater Birmingham Humane Society will be hold an Adopt-A-Thon. The goal of the event is to get 70 pets adopted in 24 hours.
Many pet-related vendors will be on site and Saturday will be GBHS Community Day featuring low cost shots and pets from other local shelters.
A recent influx of animals from the Animal Rescue Facility of Sylacuaga has the GBHS at almost full capacity. Along with kittens, puppies, cats, and dogs, the shelter also receives horses, rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs, and birds (amongst other pets) looking for a new place to call home. To view the adoptable pets, please visit www.gbhs.org.
The doors will open on the Adopt-A-Thon at 10:00 a.m.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Many pet-related vendors will be on site and Saturday will be GBHS Community Day featuring low cost shots and pets from other local shelters.
A recent influx of animals from the Animal Rescue Facility of Sylacuaga has the GBHS at almost full capacity. Along with kittens, puppies, cats, and dogs, the shelter also receives horses, rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs, and birds (amongst other pets) looking for a new place to call home. To view the adoptable pets, please visit www.gbhs.org.
The doors will open on the Adopt-A-Thon at 10:00 a.m.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham Marine killed in Afghanistan
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – The Department of Defense says a Marine from Birmingham died while supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
22-year-old Lance Cpl. Thomas E. Rivers Jr. died while during combat operations in Helman, Afghanistan.
He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
22-year-old Lance Cpl. Thomas E. Rivers Jr. died while during combat operations in Helman, Afghanistan.
He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
GBHS comes to the rescue of Sylacauga shelter
By Sherea Harris
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Dogs were loaded up in vans and trucks and hauled from the facility in Sylacauga to the Greater Birmingham Humane Society on Wednesday. Different breeds and different ages were sent, some still nursing. Many had various ailments such as fleas and mange.
Jaqque Meyer, the Executive director of GBHS says she was contacted by board members of the Animal Rescue Foundation of Sylacauga, saying they were overwhelmed and needed help. The officials ended up surrendering nearly the entire population of the shelter.
“We are going to try to save all that we can,” says Meyer. “There are a lot that are very sick and have behavior issues because I have no idea how long they have been there… I think they just got overwhelmed and had a lot of goodhearted people who were trying to do the right thing but just (were not
) educated in what the right thing was."
The only problem is the Greater Birmingham Humane Society is also overwhelmed with animals, but the staff improvised and set up kennels in every nook and cranny of the building to house the helpless dogs.
"It's one of those things that when the GBHS sees animals in need, we definitely feel like we have an obligation to help out," says GBHS spokesperson Christy Little.
Meyer says what is frustrating is this is not the first time her facility has had to assist the Sylacauga Shelter. The shelter will remain open, but Meyer is going to see to it that this does not happen again.
“They plan to clean it thoroughly and we are going to try to work on program with them where we send a couple of employees. Everybody is trained," says Meyer.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Dogs were loaded up in vans and trucks and hauled from the facility in Sylacauga to the Greater Birmingham Humane Society on Wednesday. Different breeds and different ages were sent, some still nursing. Many had various ailments such as fleas and mange.
Jaqque Meyer, the Executive director of GBHS says she was contacted by board members of the Animal Rescue Foundation of Sylacauga, saying they were overwhelmed and needed help. The officials ended up surrendering nearly the entire population of the shelter.
“We are going to try to save all that we can,” says Meyer. “There are a lot that are very sick and have behavior issues because I have no idea how long they have been there… I think they just got overwhelmed and had a lot of goodhearted people who were trying to do the right thing but just (were not
) educated in what the right thing was."
The only problem is the Greater Birmingham Humane Society is also overwhelmed with animals, but the staff improvised and set up kennels in every nook and cranny of the building to house the helpless dogs.
"It's one of those things that when the GBHS sees animals in need, we definitely feel like we have an obligation to help out," says GBHS spokesperson Christy Little.
Meyer says what is frustrating is this is not the first time her facility has had to assist the Sylacauga Shelter. The shelter will remain open, but Meyer is going to see to it that this does not happen again.
“They plan to clean it thoroughly and we are going to try to work on program with them where we send a couple of employees. Everybody is trained," says Meyer.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved
Jeffco deputies involved in 'police incident' in Chalkville
CHALKVILLE, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County deputies were involved in what they will only call a ‘police incident’ overnight in Chalkville.
Deputies spent close to two hours outside a home on Wright Circle. The incident ended around 2:30 a.m.
The sheriff's department has not released details about the situation.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Deputies spent close to two hours outside a home on Wright Circle. The incident ended around 2:30 a.m.
The sheriff's department has not released details about the situation.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Police issue warning of home invasions
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Several recent home invasion robberies in the Birmingham area have police issuing a warning. They want you to take precautions so you don't become a victim.
Police say the best precaution is common sense; that means looking out for your neighbors, activating your alarm system if you have one and keeping your bushes trimmed so you could see a criminal coming.
Birmingham P.D. Crime Prevention Specialist De'voris Ragland says it is especially important to be cautious in the warmer months. “In particular in this time of year, con artists use warm weather to target elderly. We are asking all senior adults to be careful,” says Ragland. “Be careful of solicitors. If you're going to be out in your yard, make sure you keep a phone on you and lock your doors.”
Police in Homewood, Pelham and Northport are all investigating recent home invasions.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved
Police say the best precaution is common sense; that means looking out for your neighbors, activating your alarm system if you have one and keeping your bushes trimmed so you could see a criminal coming.
Birmingham P.D. Crime Prevention Specialist De'voris Ragland says it is especially important to be cautious in the warmer months. “In particular in this time of year, con artists use warm weather to target elderly. We are asking all senior adults to be careful,” says Ragland. “Be careful of solicitors. If you're going to be out in your yard, make sure you keep a phone on you and lock your doors.”
Police in Homewood, Pelham and Northport are all investigating recent home invasions.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved
Bidding to begin on largest ALDOT project to date
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - The State Department of Transportation is set to take bids for its biggest project eve, the quarter billion dollar connector between Corridor X and Interstate 65.
The future Interstate 22 has been under construction for more than 30 years and construction to link up with I-65 is expected to take four years. With a total price tag of more than a billion dollars, the Memphis to Birmingham interstate is expected to be a boost to recruit new industry and bring visitors to the state.
The bidding process for the $250-million interchange project ends on May 21st. ALDOT is expecting companies from all over the southeast to compete for the job.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved
The future Interstate 22 has been under construction for more than 30 years and construction to link up with I-65 is expected to take four years. With a total price tag of more than a billion dollars, the Memphis to Birmingham interstate is expected to be a boost to recruit new industry and bring visitors to the state.
The bidding process for the $250-million interchange project ends on May 21st. ALDOT is expecting companies from all over the southeast to compete for the job.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved
Birmingham noted for high air pollution rate
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The city of Birmingham places near the top of a new list on air pollution yet again.
The American Lung Association says the Magic City is in the top five worst for particle pollution. The Lung Association says cleaner diesel engines and controls on coal-fired power plants are helping.
Alabama Power is close to completing a $1.7 billion project to improve air quality. Six scrubbers are already operating and the seventh will come on line next year.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved
The American Lung Association says the Magic City is in the top five worst for particle pollution. The Lung Association says cleaner diesel engines and controls on coal-fired power plants are helping.
Alabama Power is close to completing a $1.7 billion project to improve air quality. Six scrubbers are already operating and the seventh will come on line next year.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved
New precautions taken to stop oil from reaching AL coastline
MOBILE, AL (WBRC) - Alabama's environmental authorities are taking precautions to prevent another type of pollution from reaching Alabama’s coastline.
Starting today, crews will deploy oil control booms in the Gulf of Mexico to prevent spilled oil from coming ashore.
Governor riley was in Mobile on Wednesday to talk with the coast guard about the plan. “When you look at all the sensitive areas on the Alabama coast, I think we are as prepared for any contingency at this point as we have been for a hurricane or any other natural disaster that this area has faced," says Riley.
So far, favorable winds are protecting Alabama’s shoreline and fishing industry and preventing the oil from spreading toward the state's coastline.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved
Starting today, crews will deploy oil control booms in the Gulf of Mexico to prevent spilled oil from coming ashore.
Governor riley was in Mobile on Wednesday to talk with the coast guard about the plan. “When you look at all the sensitive areas on the Alabama coast, I think we are as prepared for any contingency at this point as we have been for a hurricane or any other natural disaster that this area has faced," says Riley.
So far, favorable winds are protecting Alabama’s shoreline and fishing industry and preventing the oil from spreading toward the state's coastline.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Birmingham Humane accepting animals from struggling shelter
By Sherea Harris
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - An animal shelter in Sylacauga needs help operating its facility.
The Animal Rescue Foundation of Sylacauga has surrendered nearly its entire population. The animals are now in the care of the Greater Birmingham Humane Society.
All of the animals are dogs. Some were healthy. Many were not. Some were dehydrated. Others had fleas and manges as well. Some may be euthanized.
They were hauled in trucks and vans throughout the afternoon from Sylacauga to Birmingham.
The executive director of GBHS, Jacque Meyer, says she was contacted by board members of the Animal Rescue Foundation of Sylacauga.
She was told they were overwhelmed and needed help.
The officials decided to surrender nearly the entire population of the shelter.
This is not the first time the GBHS has assisted that shelter.
"I think they just got overwhelmed and had a lot of good-hearted people who were trying to do the right thing, but just wasn't educated in what the right thing was," said Jacque Meyer.
The Sylacauga shelter will remain open, but Meyer says it will undergo some changes, including the staff being properly trained to operate the facility.
The bright side is that GBHS will conduct a adopt-a-thon this weekend. It starts on Friday.
Officials are hoping the healthy dogs will be placed in loving homes.
FOX6 News called the Animal Rescue Foundation of Sylacauga several times for a comment. No one answered.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - An animal shelter in Sylacauga needs help operating its facility.
The Animal Rescue Foundation of Sylacauga has surrendered nearly its entire population. The animals are now in the care of the Greater Birmingham Humane Society.
All of the animals are dogs. Some were healthy. Many were not. Some were dehydrated. Others had fleas and manges as well. Some may be euthanized.
They were hauled in trucks and vans throughout the afternoon from Sylacauga to Birmingham.
The executive director of GBHS, Jacque Meyer, says she was contacted by board members of the Animal Rescue Foundation of Sylacauga.
She was told they were overwhelmed and needed help.
The officials decided to surrender nearly the entire population of the shelter.
This is not the first time the GBHS has assisted that shelter.
"I think they just got overwhelmed and had a lot of good-hearted people who were trying to do the right thing, but just wasn't educated in what the right thing was," said Jacque Meyer.
The Sylacauga shelter will remain open, but Meyer says it will undergo some changes, including the staff being properly trained to operate the facility.
The bright side is that GBHS will conduct a adopt-a-thon this weekend. It starts on Friday.
Officials are hoping the healthy dogs will be placed in loving homes.
FOX6 News called the Animal Rescue Foundation of Sylacauga several times for a comment. No one answered.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
By Kelvin Reynolds
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - Tuscaloosa Metro Homicide investigators are charging a suspected robber with the death of his alleged accomplice.
Rashad Hayward, 20, faces felonly murder and robbery charges. Capt. Loyd Baker of the Homicide Unit said Hayward didn't fire the fatal shot that killed 18-year-old Christopher Collins, but said state law states Hayward can be charged because Collin's death happened during the commission of a crime.
Northport Police say Collins and Hayward tried to rob Gerald Bertrand as he returned home Tuesday around 9:30 p.m. Police Chief Robert Green said two masked men approaced Bertrand and one of them was carrying a gun. Green said Bertrand ran to his carport and fought with one of the suspects over a gun.
"The suspect directed Mr. Bertrand to give him all of his money," Green said. "Mr. Bertrand complied and gave him approximately $70. The suspect placed the gun in Mr. Bertrand's face and told him I'm still going to shoot you."
During the struggle the gun went off striking Collins in the chest. Investigators pronounced him dead at the scene.
Authorities said Hayward was being held in the Tuscaloosa County Jail $135,000 bond.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - Tuscaloosa Metro Homicide investigators are charging a suspected robber with the death of his alleged accomplice.
Rashad Hayward, 20, faces felonly murder and robbery charges. Capt. Loyd Baker of the Homicide Unit said Hayward didn't fire the fatal shot that killed 18-year-old Christopher Collins, but said state law states Hayward can be charged because Collin's death happened during the commission of a crime.
Northport Police say Collins and Hayward tried to rob Gerald Bertrand as he returned home Tuesday around 9:30 p.m. Police Chief Robert Green said two masked men approaced Bertrand and one of them was carrying a gun. Green said Bertrand ran to his carport and fought with one of the suspects over a gun.
"The suspect directed Mr. Bertrand to give him all of his money," Green said. "Mr. Bertrand complied and gave him approximately $70. The suspect placed the gun in Mr. Bertrand's face and told him I'm still going to shoot you."
During the struggle the gun went off striking Collins in the chest. Investigators pronounced him dead at the scene.
Authorities said Hayward was being held in the Tuscaloosa County Jail $135,000 bond.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Hoover High students take virtual field trip to Antarctica
By Arielle Clay
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) - A group of Hoover High School students went deep sea diving, got caught in some winter snow, and saw a 10 ft. long sea weed sample. It was all part of a virtual trip to Antarctica.
“It's really interesting being able to interact with people doing research down in Antarctica," Senior Michael Foust said.
Foust and other high school students from across the state had their questions answered in a live teleconference with UAB marine researchers where are in the frozen continent for a four month study.
“To me they are much more exciting than reading a textbook even have a teacher stand up and lecture on the board to actual have this live component,” UAB professor Dr. Jim McClintock said.
Students also got to see samples the researchers have collected, video from their dives and what it looks like in Antarctica right now.
“They could play videos and show us their research and show us what they've been doing and how it relates to us,” Foust said.
Environmental science teacher Janet Ort often uses the research team’s data in her class. She says access to that kind of information is amazing.
“To be able teach those hands on feet in the mud mind engaged classes really makes a synthesis of not only the skills not only the content knowledge but how does it apply to my life,” Ort said.
She says using the system to take their trip makes her kids better students and better citizens.
“It makes them more educated citizens scientifically and as far as environmental impact,” she said.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) - A group of Hoover High School students went deep sea diving, got caught in some winter snow, and saw a 10 ft. long sea weed sample. It was all part of a virtual trip to Antarctica.
“It's really interesting being able to interact with people doing research down in Antarctica," Senior Michael Foust said.
Foust and other high school students from across the state had their questions answered in a live teleconference with UAB marine researchers where are in the frozen continent for a four month study.
“To me they are much more exciting than reading a textbook even have a teacher stand up and lecture on the board to actual have this live component,” UAB professor Dr. Jim McClintock said.
Students also got to see samples the researchers have collected, video from their dives and what it looks like in Antarctica right now.
“They could play videos and show us their research and show us what they've been doing and how it relates to us,” Foust said.
Environmental science teacher Janet Ort often uses the research team’s data in her class. She says access to that kind of information is amazing.
“To be able teach those hands on feet in the mud mind engaged classes really makes a synthesis of not only the skills not only the content knowledge but how does it apply to my life,” Ort said.
She says using the system to take their trip makes her kids better students and better citizens.
“It makes them more educated citizens scientifically and as far as environmental impact,” she said.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Aliceville man charged in armed car-jacking
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A federal grand jury Wednesday indicted an Aliceville man for a 2009 car-jacking in Tuscaloosa.
U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance, in a statement to FOX6 News, said Brandon Terrell Peebles, 22, was charged with car-jacking and carrying a firearm during a crime of violence.
Vance said Peebles was charged with forcibly taking a vehicle from a Tuscaloosa woman on Aug. 28, 2009, and using and carrying a firearm during the car-jacking.
If convicted of car-jacking, Vance said Peebles would face a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Conviction for the attending gun count carries a maximum sentence of life in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance, in a statement to FOX6 News, said Brandon Terrell Peebles, 22, was charged with car-jacking and carrying a firearm during a crime of violence.
Vance said Peebles was charged with forcibly taking a vehicle from a Tuscaloosa woman on Aug. 28, 2009, and using and carrying a firearm during the car-jacking.
If convicted of car-jacking, Vance said Peebles would face a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Conviction for the attending gun count carries a maximum sentence of life in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Former pharmacy tech charged with fraud
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A federal grand jury Wednesday indicted a Rainbow City woman for health care fraud totaling more than $359,000.
U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance, in a statement to FOX6 News, said Charlotte Turley, 52, was charged with four counts of health care fraud and seeks to have her forfeit $359,381 to the government.
Vance said Turley received more than $359,000 in illegal prescription reimbursements while working as a pharmacy technician at K-Mart store in East Gadsden. According to the indictment, Turley schemed to defraud Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama between June 2005 and July 2008. As a pharmacy technician, Turley entered insurance claim information into the store’s computer system. She is charged with entering false information to reflect she received prescriptions that were never prescribed, and that she received reimbursements from Blue Cross and Blue Shield for the fake prescriptions.
“Fraud involving health care providers increases the overall costs of health care to everyone,” Vance said. “This office will continue to prosecute anyone who seeks personal enrichment by stealing from health care providers.”
If convicted, Turley faces maximum sentences of 10 years in prison and fines of up to $250,000 on each count.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance, in a statement to FOX6 News, said Charlotte Turley, 52, was charged with four counts of health care fraud and seeks to have her forfeit $359,381 to the government.
Vance said Turley received more than $359,000 in illegal prescription reimbursements while working as a pharmacy technician at K-Mart store in East Gadsden. According to the indictment, Turley schemed to defraud Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama between June 2005 and July 2008. As a pharmacy technician, Turley entered insurance claim information into the store’s computer system. She is charged with entering false information to reflect she received prescriptions that were never prescribed, and that she received reimbursements from Blue Cross and Blue Shield for the fake prescriptions.
“Fraud involving health care providers increases the overall costs of health care to everyone,” Vance said. “This office will continue to prosecute anyone who seeks personal enrichment by stealing from health care providers.”
If convicted, Turley faces maximum sentences of 10 years in prison and fines of up to $250,000 on each count.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Bessemer woman charged with fraud
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A federal grand jury Wednesday indicted a Bessemer woman with bank fraud and aiding others to make false statements on a mortgage loan application.
U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance, in a statement to FOX6 News, said Tamiko Jacques Davis, 42, was charged with bank fraud and aiding and abetting false statements.
Vance said, according to the indictment, the bank fraud and the aiding and abetting false statements to a financial institution were carried out as follows: Between October 2007 and December 2009, Davis worked as a clerk of Cooper Green Mercy Hospital and created fraudulent letters which substantiated other people’s claims that they suffered from a physical disability. The letters were used to support fraudulent claims by loan applicants that they were receiving monthly disability payments from the Social Security Administration. The letters directly assisted the loan applicants in obtaining mortgage loans that they would otherwise have been unable to obtain from financial institutions.
Vance said if convicted, the maximum sentence for each count is 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine.
Vance said this prosecution is part of President Barack Obama’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force. Vance said President Obama established the inter-agency task force to wage an aggressive, coordinated and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance, in a statement to FOX6 News, said Tamiko Jacques Davis, 42, was charged with bank fraud and aiding and abetting false statements.
Vance said, according to the indictment, the bank fraud and the aiding and abetting false statements to a financial institution were carried out as follows: Between October 2007 and December 2009, Davis worked as a clerk of Cooper Green Mercy Hospital and created fraudulent letters which substantiated other people’s claims that they suffered from a physical disability. The letters were used to support fraudulent claims by loan applicants that they were receiving monthly disability payments from the Social Security Administration. The letters directly assisted the loan applicants in obtaining mortgage loans that they would otherwise have been unable to obtain from financial institutions.
Vance said if convicted, the maximum sentence for each count is 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine.
Vance said this prosecution is part of President Barack Obama’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force. Vance said President Obama established the inter-agency task force to wage an aggressive, coordinated and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Two women indicted for fake disability claims
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A federal grand jury Wednesday indicted two women on charges of falsely claiming disability payments on mortgage applications
U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance, in a statement to FOX6 News, said Shaquinta Reanne Gates, 29, of Birmingham, and Silvia D. McBride, 27, of Bessemer, were each charged with mail fraud and making false statements on a mortgage application to a financial institution.
Vance said both women are charged with falsely claiming to receive monthly Social Security Administration disability payments on loan applications they mailed to Wells Fargo. Gates applied for a mortgage loan in February 2007, and McBride in November 2007, according to their indictments. Neither woman would have been eligible to receive loans to buy houses if they had reported their true incomes on the mortgage applications, the indictments say.
Vance said if convicted, the maximum sentence for each count in the indictments is 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine. The indictments also seek forfeiture of the loan amounts fraudulently obtained - $74,100 from Gates and $71,000 from McBride.
Vance said this prosecution is part of President Barack Obama’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force. Vance said President Obama established the inter-agency task force to wage an aggressive, coordinated and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance, in a statement to FOX6 News, said Shaquinta Reanne Gates, 29, of Birmingham, and Silvia D. McBride, 27, of Bessemer, were each charged with mail fraud and making false statements on a mortgage application to a financial institution.
Vance said both women are charged with falsely claiming to receive monthly Social Security Administration disability payments on loan applications they mailed to Wells Fargo. Gates applied for a mortgage loan in February 2007, and McBride in November 2007, according to their indictments. Neither woman would have been eligible to receive loans to buy houses if they had reported their true incomes on the mortgage applications, the indictments say.
Vance said if convicted, the maximum sentence for each count in the indictments is 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine. The indictments also seek forfeiture of the loan amounts fraudulently obtained - $74,100 from Gates and $71,000 from McBride.
Vance said this prosecution is part of President Barack Obama’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force. Vance said President Obama established the inter-agency task force to wage an aggressive, coordinated and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Former bank employee indicted for fraud, theft
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A federal grand jury Wednesday indicted a former Regions Bank employee on fraud and identity theft charges.
U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance, in a statement to FOX6 News, said Wash Taylor Coleman, Jr., 33, of Birmingham, was indicted on 11 counts of mail fraud, bank fraud and aggravated identity theft.
“People should be able to trust employees of the banks where they deposit their hard-earned money,” Vance said. “When a bank employee uses his special access to steal from those customers, the employee must be required to answer for his conduct. We will prosecute these cases to make that happen."
Vance said Coleman, in June 2008, applied for a Capital One credit card in the name of a Regions Bank customer who did business at the branch where Coleman worked. Coleman received the credit card through the mail, used it for more than a year, and sometimes made payments on the card bill with money he took from the same customer’s Regions Bank accounts.
The indictment also charges that, from October 2008 to September 2009, Coleman made unauthorized cash withdrawals from accounts of three Regions customers, including the one in whose name he had obtained the Capital One credit card. Between June 2009 and September 2009, the indictment says Coleman also made unauthorized electronic withdrawals from accounts of two of these Regions customers, causing the money to be transferred to a PayPal account Coleman controlled.
If convicted, Vance said Coleman faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine for each mail fraud and bank fraud charge. He also could face an additional, mandatory, two-year prison term upon conviction of each count of aggravated identity theft.
Vance said this prosecution is part of President Barack Obama’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force. Vance said President Obama established the inter-agency task force to wage an aggressive, coordinated and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance, in a statement to FOX6 News, said Wash Taylor Coleman, Jr., 33, of Birmingham, was indicted on 11 counts of mail fraud, bank fraud and aggravated identity theft.
“People should be able to trust employees of the banks where they deposit their hard-earned money,” Vance said. “When a bank employee uses his special access to steal from those customers, the employee must be required to answer for his conduct. We will prosecute these cases to make that happen."
Vance said Coleman, in June 2008, applied for a Capital One credit card in the name of a Regions Bank customer who did business at the branch where Coleman worked. Coleman received the credit card through the mail, used it for more than a year, and sometimes made payments on the card bill with money he took from the same customer’s Regions Bank accounts.
The indictment also charges that, from October 2008 to September 2009, Coleman made unauthorized cash withdrawals from accounts of three Regions customers, including the one in whose name he had obtained the Capital One credit card. Between June 2009 and September 2009, the indictment says Coleman also made unauthorized electronic withdrawals from accounts of two of these Regions customers, causing the money to be transferred to a PayPal account Coleman controlled.
If convicted, Vance said Coleman faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine for each mail fraud and bank fraud charge. He also could face an additional, mandatory, two-year prison term upon conviction of each count of aggravated identity theft.
Vance said this prosecution is part of President Barack Obama’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force. Vance said President Obama established the inter-agency task force to wage an aggressive, coordinated and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Talladega man indicted for bank fraud, identity theft
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A federal grand jury Wednesday indicted a Talladega man for stealing other people’s bank cards to withdraw money from their accounts.
U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance, in a statement to FOX6 News, said Bittrell Rashaun Scott, 29, was charged with four counts of bank fraud and aggravated identity theft.
Vance said Scott, in April 2008, unlawfully obtained two different Wachovia Bank ATM cards and used them to withdraw more than $6,000 from accounts of Wachovia Bank customers.
"Identity theft crimes hurt the individual victims and the institutions where the culprits use the stolen identities,” Vance said. “We will prosecute the perpetrators of fraud to help honest Americans protect what they have worked hard to obtain.”
Vance said Scott, if convicted, faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine for each bank fraud charge, and could face an additional, mandatory two-year prison term for each count of aggravated identity theft.
Vance said this prosecution is part of President Barack Obama’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force. Vance said President Obama established the inter-agency task force to wage an aggressive, coordinated and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance, in a statement to FOX6 News, said Bittrell Rashaun Scott, 29, was charged with four counts of bank fraud and aggravated identity theft.
Vance said Scott, in April 2008, unlawfully obtained two different Wachovia Bank ATM cards and used them to withdraw more than $6,000 from accounts of Wachovia Bank customers.
"Identity theft crimes hurt the individual victims and the institutions where the culprits use the stolen identities,” Vance said. “We will prosecute the perpetrators of fraud to help honest Americans protect what they have worked hard to obtain.”
Vance said Scott, if convicted, faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine for each bank fraud charge, and could face an additional, mandatory two-year prison term for each count of aggravated identity theft.
Vance said this prosecution is part of President Barack Obama’s Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force. Vance said President Obama established the inter-agency task force to wage an aggressive, coordinated and proactive effort to investigate and prosecute financial crimes.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jefferson County says finances improving
By Alan Collins
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County officials say the county's finances are improving.
County commissioners received an update Wednesday from acting Finance Director Travis Hulsey.
"We are encouraged," Hulsey said. "It looks like we have stabilized the financial situation for Jefferson County. Hopefully the economy is rebounding somewhat. I feel better than I did a year ago at this time."
Hulsey said the general fund operating budget is $43.8 million and the general fund cash reserve with the SEC settlement with JP Morgan is $21.7 million. The remaining $28.3 million is in an escrow account for occupational tax refunds.
Commission President Bettye Fine Collins said the county must still be cautious.
"We told you all after April, once we have ad valorem taxes in the house, we could have a leveling off and we could have a decline," Collins said.
Collins says county employees may not get merit pay raises this year. A decision will be made in July.
Commissioner Shelia Smoot said she believes future budget cuts may not be needed.
"I think we are still in the woods," Smoot said. "Not back or the middle of the woods but still in the woods. We need to continue to in the matter we got to this point."
Another big factor for Jefferson County finances will be a series of court cases, including one that could force the county to pay up to $50 million in refunds over the job tax and a legal challenge to the new occupational tax. Collins said any court loss will force budget troubles.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County officials say the county's finances are improving.
County commissioners received an update Wednesday from acting Finance Director Travis Hulsey.
"We are encouraged," Hulsey said. "It looks like we have stabilized the financial situation for Jefferson County. Hopefully the economy is rebounding somewhat. I feel better than I did a year ago at this time."
Hulsey said the general fund operating budget is $43.8 million and the general fund cash reserve with the SEC settlement with JP Morgan is $21.7 million. The remaining $28.3 million is in an escrow account for occupational tax refunds.
Commission President Bettye Fine Collins said the county must still be cautious.
"We told you all after April, once we have ad valorem taxes in the house, we could have a leveling off and we could have a decline," Collins said.
Collins says county employees may not get merit pay raises this year. A decision will be made in July.
Commissioner Shelia Smoot said she believes future budget cuts may not be needed.
"I think we are still in the woods," Smoot said. "Not back or the middle of the woods but still in the woods. We need to continue to in the matter we got to this point."
Another big factor for Jefferson County finances will be a series of court cases, including one that could force the county to pay up to $50 million in refunds over the job tax and a legal challenge to the new occupational tax. Collins said any court loss will force budget troubles.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Politics hold up Jefferson County sewer debt solution
By Alan Collins
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Any possible solution to Jefferson County's sewer debt crisis may depend on sitting a new county commissioner from District One.
The seat has been vacant since Commissioner William Bell resigned to became mayor of Birmingham. Jefferson County Commission President Bettye Fine Collins said Wednesday she is confident a solution may be found soon.
"In this time and space we believe the environment is conducive to our getting a quick settlement than it has been or will be, it's now," Collins said.
Commissioner Shelia Smoot said the county should wait until there are five commissioners in place after the special election in June.
"District One has to be represented," Smoot said. "If we waited if we can for a person to come on board."
Commissioner Bobby Humphryes said the only deal that make sense is for the bond creditors to cut Jefferson County's $3 billion debt down to about $1 billion.
"I could not vote for any deal that requires substantial rate increases or new taxes or takes it out of the general fund to pay it," Humphryes said.
Collins said taxpayers, rate payers and the business community are demanding the county act on any sort of agreement soon.
"It seems to be we all to take a wait and see attitude and see positions without prejudging situation, without issuing mandates," Collins said.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Any possible solution to Jefferson County's sewer debt crisis may depend on sitting a new county commissioner from District One.
The seat has been vacant since Commissioner William Bell resigned to became mayor of Birmingham. Jefferson County Commission President Bettye Fine Collins said Wednesday she is confident a solution may be found soon.
"In this time and space we believe the environment is conducive to our getting a quick settlement than it has been or will be, it's now," Collins said.
Commissioner Shelia Smoot said the county should wait until there are five commissioners in place after the special election in June.
"District One has to be represented," Smoot said. "If we waited if we can for a person to come on board."
Commissioner Bobby Humphryes said the only deal that make sense is for the bond creditors to cut Jefferson County's $3 billion debt down to about $1 billion.
"I could not vote for any deal that requires substantial rate increases or new taxes or takes it out of the general fund to pay it," Humphryes said.
Collins said taxpayers, rate payers and the business community are demanding the county act on any sort of agreement soon.
"It seems to be we all to take a wait and see attitude and see positions without prejudging situation, without issuing mandates," Collins said.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Former Hoover coach indicted on child porn charges
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A federal grand jury Wednesday indicated a former part-time Hoover middle school coach on child pornography charges.
U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance, in a statement to FOX6 News, said James Edward Corbitt, 34, of Hoover, was indicted on three charges of receiving, distributing and possessing child pornography.
Corbitt was arrested March 31st after federal agents executed a search warrant where they recovered a computer and computer hard drives. The FBI, in court documents, said Corbitt, a 7th-grade football and basketball coach at Bumpus Middle School, admitted to using a hidden video camera to secretly record two underage boys getting in and out of the shower. In addition, Corbitt said he used an online file sharing service to upload 16,000 pictures or videos of child pornography.
Vance said Corbitt was not was not coaching for the school at the time of his arrest.
According to the court documents, authorities began investigating Corbitt in October 2009 when an undercover FBI agent received child pornography from Corbitt through a peer-to-peer file-sharing service. The undercover agent connected to Corbitt's computer and discovered Corbitt was sharing more than 16,000 files.
After further investigations, a search warrant was obtained on Monday and executed on Wednesday. Court documents said Corbitt was interviewed at work on Wednesday where he admitted to possessing the child pornography.
Corbitt remained in custody in the Shelby County Jail pending trial.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance, in a statement to FOX6 News, said James Edward Corbitt, 34, of Hoover, was indicted on three charges of receiving, distributing and possessing child pornography.
Corbitt was arrested March 31st after federal agents executed a search warrant where they recovered a computer and computer hard drives. The FBI, in court documents, said Corbitt, a 7th-grade football and basketball coach at Bumpus Middle School, admitted to using a hidden video camera to secretly record two underage boys getting in and out of the shower. In addition, Corbitt said he used an online file sharing service to upload 16,000 pictures or videos of child pornography.
Vance said Corbitt was not was not coaching for the school at the time of his arrest.
According to the court documents, authorities began investigating Corbitt in October 2009 when an undercover FBI agent received child pornography from Corbitt through a peer-to-peer file-sharing service. The undercover agent connected to Corbitt's computer and discovered Corbitt was sharing more than 16,000 files.
After further investigations, a search warrant was obtained on Monday and executed on Wednesday. Court documents said Corbitt was interviewed at work on Wednesday where he admitted to possessing the child pornography.
Corbitt remained in custody in the Shelby County Jail pending trial.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham missing woman found
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham police said a woman reported missing has been found.
52-year-old Sandra Mitchell had been missing since last Friday. Wednesday, Birmingham Police said detectives made contact with her and said she was fine.
No other information was available.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
52-year-old Sandra Mitchell had been missing since last Friday. Wednesday, Birmingham Police said detectives made contact with her and said she was fine.
No other information was available.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Two arrested after police standoff in Homewood
HOMEWOOD, AL (WBRC) – Two men are under arrest after police say they tried to burglarize two homes in Homewood.
The Homewood Police Department says that they received a burglary call around 8:53 a.m. Wednesday morning. Upon arriving at the home on Bristol Lane in the Camden Place subdivision, police found that the two men had tried to break into the home but had been stopped by the homeowner, who pointed her gun at the suspects.
The suspects fled and made an attempt to break into a house on Heidi Circle. At this point, police spotted the suspects. One suspect gave up, but the other began a standoff against police inside the home.
The standoff lasted for over two hours when police were able to get inside. They found the suspect hiding under a couch.
No one was hurt.
Both men are now facing burglary charges.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The Homewood Police Department says that they received a burglary call around 8:53 a.m. Wednesday morning. Upon arriving at the home on Bristol Lane in the Camden Place subdivision, police found that the two men had tried to break into the home but had been stopped by the homeowner, who pointed her gun at the suspects.
The suspects fled and made an attempt to break into a house on Heidi Circle. At this point, police spotted the suspects. One suspect gave up, but the other began a standoff against police inside the home.
The standoff lasted for over two hours when police were able to get inside. They found the suspect hiding under a couch.
No one was hurt.
Both men are now facing burglary charges.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Teen dies during attempted robbery
NORTHPORT, AL (WBRC) - Northport police say a teenager died during an overnight attempted robbery.
Authorities believe the person killed, 18-year-old Christopher Collins, was one of the robbers. Police Chief Robert Green tells us Collins died during a struggle over a gun.
Green says the intended victim was coming home with a pizza when two masked men pulled a gun on him and asked for cash. The victim ran to his carport and fought with the suspects. The gun went off and killed Collins.
Green says it is unlikely the victim will be charged.
Police are searching for Collins' alleged accomplice.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Authorities believe the person killed, 18-year-old Christopher Collins, was one of the robbers. Police Chief Robert Green tells us Collins died during a struggle over a gun.
Green says the intended victim was coming home with a pizza when two masked men pulled a gun on him and asked for cash. The victim ran to his carport and fought with the suspects. The gun went off and killed Collins.
Green says it is unlikely the victim will be charged.
Police are searching for Collins' alleged accomplice.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Woman chases suspects out of house
HOMEWOOD, AL (WBRC) - A woman chased two people out of her home Wednesday morning after they broke in.
Homewood Police told FOX6 News two suspects broke into a home on Bristol Lane. Once inside, a woman pulled a gun on them and chased them out of the house.
Police said one of the suspects was taken into custody. They were searching for the other suspect.
No one was hurt.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Homewood Police told FOX6 News two suspects broke into a home on Bristol Lane. Once inside, a woman pulled a gun on them and chased them out of the house.
Police said one of the suspects was taken into custody. They were searching for the other suspect.
No one was hurt.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Former Stillman president Cordell Wynn dies
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - Cordell Wynn, former president at Stillman College in Tuscaloosa, passed away Wednesday morning.
Tori Cliff, public relations director for Stillman College, told FOX6 News Wynn passed away at 1:45 a.m. Wednesday at La Rocca Nursing Home.
Wynn served as Stillman's fourth president from 1982 until his retirement in 1997, where he helped Stillman grow its campus to more than 1,000 students.
Wynn was a native of Eatonton, Georgia.
Van Hoose & Steele Funeral Home will arrange Wynn's funeral service.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tori Cliff, public relations director for Stillman College, told FOX6 News Wynn passed away at 1:45 a.m. Wednesday at La Rocca Nursing Home.
Wynn served as Stillman's fourth president from 1982 until his retirement in 1997, where he helped Stillman grow its campus to more than 1,000 students.
Wynn was a native of Eatonton, Georgia.
Van Hoose & Steele Funeral Home will arrange Wynn's funeral service.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Two buildings damaged in Cullman fire
CULLMAN, AL (WBRC) - Fire damaged two city buildings in downtown Cullman on Tuesday night.
Firefighters worked late into the night battling the blaze, which destroyed an old warehouse building as well as a large building the city planned to use as a new garage.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Firefighters worked late into the night battling the blaze, which destroyed an old warehouse building as well as a large building the city planned to use as a new garage.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Lawmakers subpoenaed over e-bingo bill investigation
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - At least seven Alabama lawmakers have been subpoenaed to testify before a federal grand jury investigating possible corruption in the battle over electronic bingo.
The list includes Senators Scott Beason, Hinton Mitchem, Tom Butler and Paul Sanford. From the house, Speaker Seth Hammett as well as Representatives Craig Ford and Mac Gipson.
Legislators say the grand jury appears to be looking at whether illegal lobbying occurred on the e-bingo bill.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The list includes Senators Scott Beason, Hinton Mitchem, Tom Butler and Paul Sanford. From the house, Speaker Seth Hammett as well as Representatives Craig Ford and Mac Gipson.
Legislators say the grand jury appears to be looking at whether illegal lobbying occurred on the e-bingo bill.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham police searching for missing woman
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham police need your help locating a missing woman.
52-year-old Sandra Mitchell has been missing since last Friday. Mitchell is described as a black female, 5’9” tall, 266 lbs, brown eyes, and black hair.
If you have any information about Mitchell, or if you have seen her, you are asked to call Birmingham police at 297-8413.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
52-year-old Sandra Mitchell has been missing since last Friday. Mitchell is described as a black female, 5’9” tall, 266 lbs, brown eyes, and black hair.
If you have any information about Mitchell, or if you have seen her, you are asked to call Birmingham police at 297-8413.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Disorder and chaos cause some to leave public forum
By Melanie Posey
BESSEMER, AL (WBRC) - A Bessemer town hall meeting almost resulted in a fight Tuesday night.
The forum called "Let's Talk True Facts" was supposed to be an opportunity for residents to have their concerns addressed. But the meeting quickly turned to the hot-button topic of electronic bingo.
In front of nearly 100 residents, council president Earl Cochran and councilor Louise Alexander both voiced concern for the issue. But when Bessemer Mayor Ed May rose and began to speak against the issue, Cochran grabbed the microphone, telling the audience that May was not going to control the meeting.
A few moments later, when the mayor began to speak again, another confrontation started. This time, Bessemer police officers became involved. And several residents, including Bessie Pippins, left the meeting. "I am totally upset because we're supposed to respect each other," Pippins said. "Whether you like what I say or not, I'm entitled to be heard."
Sylvia Blackerby said she was embarrassed. "I'm very disappointed in the way adults had acted. I felt it was chaotic and it was grandstanding."
Mayor Ed May said he too was embarrassed by the incident. "It's not embarrassing for me, because I can take it," May said. "But it's embarrassing for the people who've elected us. But at least they see who they have in their elected officials."
Cochran said he too regretted what happened. "I apologized to the people and I did so because it's not me," Cochran stated. "But I'm tired of seeing this city go to ruin because we can't get funding in this city." Tuesday's forum was the first of four such meetings.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BESSEMER, AL (WBRC) - A Bessemer town hall meeting almost resulted in a fight Tuesday night.
The forum called "Let's Talk True Facts" was supposed to be an opportunity for residents to have their concerns addressed. But the meeting quickly turned to the hot-button topic of electronic bingo.
In front of nearly 100 residents, council president Earl Cochran and councilor Louise Alexander both voiced concern for the issue. But when Bessemer Mayor Ed May rose and began to speak against the issue, Cochran grabbed the microphone, telling the audience that May was not going to control the meeting.
A few moments later, when the mayor began to speak again, another confrontation started. This time, Bessemer police officers became involved. And several residents, including Bessie Pippins, left the meeting. "I am totally upset because we're supposed to respect each other," Pippins said. "Whether you like what I say or not, I'm entitled to be heard."
Sylvia Blackerby said she was embarrassed. "I'm very disappointed in the way adults had acted. I felt it was chaotic and it was grandstanding."
Mayor Ed May said he too was embarrassed by the incident. "It's not embarrassing for me, because I can take it," May said. "But it's embarrassing for the people who've elected us. But at least they see who they have in their elected officials."
Cochran said he too regretted what happened. "I apologized to the people and I did so because it's not me," Cochran stated. "But I'm tired of seeing this city go to ruin because we can't get funding in this city." Tuesday's forum was the first of four such meetings.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Homicide victim dies at St Vincent's Hospital
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham's latest homicide victim was found dead in a vehicle after arriving at St Vincent's Hospital.
The ordeal started when Birmingham police searched the 800 block of Ave F after they received reports of shots fired. They subsequently found nothing.
Shortly afterwards, police were notified of 2 gunshot victims at St Vincent's Hospital near downtown Birmingham.
When police arrived, hospital personnel had pronounced the female victim deceased, and had begun treatment on the male. His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
Birmingham Police are investigating what lead to the disagreement and crime.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The ordeal started when Birmingham police searched the 800 block of Ave F after they received reports of shots fired. They subsequently found nothing.
Shortly afterwards, police were notified of 2 gunshot victims at St Vincent's Hospital near downtown Birmingham.
When police arrived, hospital personnel had pronounced the female victim deceased, and had begun treatment on the male. His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
Birmingham Police are investigating what lead to the disagreement and crime.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham Superintendent wants efficiency at central office
Birmingham Superintendent wants efficiency at central office
By Jonathan Hardison
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham City Schools' superintendent says his plan to streamline the system's central office could save a million dollars a year for the shrinking system.
Dr. Craig Witherspoon released his plan Tuesday to cut jobs and expenses at the central office in an effort to put more money in the classroom.
Dr. Witherspoon's plan would radically change the school system's central office.
Under the plan, most of the administration would report to 4 chief officers in charge of academics, human resources, finances, and operations.
But the biggest changes would come in the form of cutting jobs -- going from 4 assistant superintendents to 2, and not filling the chief of staff position while hiring an in-house attorney to handle most of the system's legal work, instead of using outside law firms on a contract basis.
Witherspoon says his goal was putting more of the system's shrinking funding into the classroom.
"How do we best serve the needs of schools?" Witherspoon asked. "And in streamlining, are we effective and efficient, do our various departments talk, collaborate with each other so that everyone's on the same page and we're able to deliver that service."
The plan appears to have support among a majority of board members and the teachers union.
"I have a few questions with how that trickles down and the additional cuts will be made, but thus far I'm very pleased with the proposal as he presented it," said board member April Williams.
"We didn't have any choice but to re-organize," said board member Tyrone Belcher. "So we are re-organizing and I think it's for the good of the Birmingham Public School System, and I think it's gonna be pretty good."
"We're finally glad to see a superintendent who's brave enough to come to Birmingham, and make these recommendations," said Lance Hyche of the local AEA chapter. "We say cut the administration at the central office, save millions of dollars, get rid of those overpaid lawyers. Put money in the classroom. Let's protect those employees. I'm glad to see he's doing that."
The school board will have to vote on this plan and all of its changes before any of it can take effect.
The system faces an end-of-May deadline to make any changes they want to make sure whatever new system takes shape is in place before next school year.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
By Jonathan Hardison
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham City Schools' superintendent says his plan to streamline the system's central office could save a million dollars a year for the shrinking system.
Dr. Craig Witherspoon released his plan Tuesday to cut jobs and expenses at the central office in an effort to put more money in the classroom.
Dr. Witherspoon's plan would radically change the school system's central office.
Under the plan, most of the administration would report to 4 chief officers in charge of academics, human resources, finances, and operations.
But the biggest changes would come in the form of cutting jobs -- going from 4 assistant superintendents to 2, and not filling the chief of staff position while hiring an in-house attorney to handle most of the system's legal work, instead of using outside law firms on a contract basis.
Witherspoon says his goal was putting more of the system's shrinking funding into the classroom.
"How do we best serve the needs of schools?" Witherspoon asked. "And in streamlining, are we effective and efficient, do our various departments talk, collaborate with each other so that everyone's on the same page and we're able to deliver that service."
The plan appears to have support among a majority of board members and the teachers union.
"I have a few questions with how that trickles down and the additional cuts will be made, but thus far I'm very pleased with the proposal as he presented it," said board member April Williams.
"We didn't have any choice but to re-organize," said board member Tyrone Belcher. "So we are re-organizing and I think it's for the good of the Birmingham Public School System, and I think it's gonna be pretty good."
"We're finally glad to see a superintendent who's brave enough to come to Birmingham, and make these recommendations," said Lance Hyche of the local AEA chapter. "We say cut the administration at the central office, save millions of dollars, get rid of those overpaid lawyers. Put money in the classroom. Let's protect those employees. I'm glad to see he's doing that."
The school board will have to vote on this plan and all of its changes before any of it can take effect.
The system faces an end-of-May deadline to make any changes they want to make sure whatever new system takes shape is in place before next school year.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Water main work stalls Five Points South traffic
BIRMINGHAM (WBRC) - A water main break on in Birmingham's Five Points South caused problems during rush hour traffic Tuesday.
City officials had to close part of the street to traffic while crews worked to fix the problem.
As for business, nearby restaurants say aside the noise and traffic, it is business as usual.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
City officials had to close part of the street to traffic while crews worked to fix the problem.
As for business, nearby restaurants say aside the noise and traffic, it is business as usual.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Meth lab bust in Leeds
LEEDS, AL (WBRC) - A joint investigation has led to a meth lab bust in Leeds.
The Leeds Police Department and the St. Clair County Sheriff's Department said they worked together on an investigation into a garage in Leeds. Officers discovered a shake-and-bake meth lab at the business along with a gun that was reported stolen.
Investigators said they believe the garage may also have been used as a chop shop.
Authorities said Michael Allen and Shane Barber of Pell City face several criminal charges in the case.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The Leeds Police Department and the St. Clair County Sheriff's Department said they worked together on an investigation into a garage in Leeds. Officers discovered a shake-and-bake meth lab at the business along with a gun that was reported stolen.
Investigators said they believe the garage may also have been used as a chop shop.
Authorities said Michael Allen and Shane Barber of Pell City face several criminal charges in the case.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jefferson County sues to recoup taxes
By Alan Collins
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County is taking several companies to court to recoup tax dollars.
One of the companies is Hendon Engineering. The company built Five Mile Creek Treatment facility. Commissioner Jim Carns says Hendon built the building with a design flaw: it can only handle 60% of the waste water compacity.
"As it would wind down and went into service, it didn't have enough capacity," Carns said. "This was not caught by anyone."
The county would like to recoup $4 million but, since Hendon is out of business, the county is seeking insurance money.
The other lawsuit is against Kipling and Co. The county wants $31,000 in workforce development funds. Commissioners say no work was done at all.
"I think it's something do do with our society today," said Bettye Fine Collins, president of the Jefferson Co. Commission. "I don't know people feel they should be held to the performance standard that they adhered to in the past."
While Jefferson County Commissioners are hoping by going to court they can recoup taxpayers dollars, commissioner are also hoping to take other steps to stop the trouble from happening again.
"I think a county manager could have caught this," said Bobby Humphryes, Jefferson Co. Commissioner. "All of the corruption, they would have definitely saved us a lot of money."
Collins says she would like to see the county move to a contract compliance officer. Collins says she has doubts a county manager will have all of the necessary skills.
"Hey, except for Bear Bryant, I don't know who could fill that position," Collins said. "He could walk on water."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County is taking several companies to court to recoup tax dollars.
One of the companies is Hendon Engineering. The company built Five Mile Creek Treatment facility. Commissioner Jim Carns says Hendon built the building with a design flaw: it can only handle 60% of the waste water compacity.
"As it would wind down and went into service, it didn't have enough capacity," Carns said. "This was not caught by anyone."
The county would like to recoup $4 million but, since Hendon is out of business, the county is seeking insurance money.
The other lawsuit is against Kipling and Co. The county wants $31,000 in workforce development funds. Commissioners say no work was done at all.
"I think it's something do do with our society today," said Bettye Fine Collins, president of the Jefferson Co. Commission. "I don't know people feel they should be held to the performance standard that they adhered to in the past."
While Jefferson County Commissioners are hoping by going to court they can recoup taxpayers dollars, commissioner are also hoping to take other steps to stop the trouble from happening again.
"I think a county manager could have caught this," said Bobby Humphryes, Jefferson Co. Commissioner. "All of the corruption, they would have definitely saved us a lot of money."
Collins says she would like to see the county move to a contract compliance officer. Collins says she has doubts a county manager will have all of the necessary skills.
"Hey, except for Bear Bryant, I don't know who could fill that position," Collins said. "He could walk on water."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham concerned over elevated Highway 280 plans
By Ashley Nix
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Another municipality has asked the state transportation department to change it’s plan for an elevated Highway 280.
Tuesday, Birmingham city leaders were going to pass a resolution opposing the $800 million ALDOT plan, but Mayor William Bell asked them not to.
Tuesday, city councilors were asked to oppose ALDOT’s elevated Highway 280 plan to relieve congestion on Highway 280.
“It is a 10-20 year plan and if you're talking about 800 million dollars, I want a bigger bang for my buck," said Councilor Kim Raffery.
But even with those concerns, Mayor William Bell had more concerns about passing the resolution…more specifically the word oppose. Bell said he’s concerned about Birmingham using harsh language towards ALDOT and how that could impede future projects where the city needs ALDOT’s assistance.
"Before you go off trying to pick a fight with somebody, if that's what we wanna do,” Bell said. “Just remember there are consequences to it."
Other councilors agreed with the mayor.
"The problem with the resolution there's so much emotional language,” Council President Roderick Royal said. “There are some facts, it could be offensive to ALDOT who's trying to finally do something for this area."
In the end, councilors changed the wording from “oppose” to being “concerned” about the plan. Even though city councilors say they're heading the mayor's advice, they are still hoping for major changes to the current 280 plan.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Another municipality has asked the state transportation department to change it’s plan for an elevated Highway 280.
Tuesday, Birmingham city leaders were going to pass a resolution opposing the $800 million ALDOT plan, but Mayor William Bell asked them not to.
Tuesday, city councilors were asked to oppose ALDOT’s elevated Highway 280 plan to relieve congestion on Highway 280.
“It is a 10-20 year plan and if you're talking about 800 million dollars, I want a bigger bang for my buck," said Councilor Kim Raffery.
But even with those concerns, Mayor William Bell had more concerns about passing the resolution…more specifically the word oppose. Bell said he’s concerned about Birmingham using harsh language towards ALDOT and how that could impede future projects where the city needs ALDOT’s assistance.
"Before you go off trying to pick a fight with somebody, if that's what we wanna do,” Bell said. “Just remember there are consequences to it."
Other councilors agreed with the mayor.
"The problem with the resolution there's so much emotional language,” Council President Roderick Royal said. “There are some facts, it could be offensive to ALDOT who's trying to finally do something for this area."
In the end, councilors changed the wording from “oppose” to being “concerned” about the plan. Even though city councilors say they're heading the mayor's advice, they are still hoping for major changes to the current 280 plan.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham City Council approves public projects
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The Birmingham City Council approved Tuesday more than $20 million in public projects that will be paid for by the Economic Recovery Zone bonds:
Streets - $2.7 million
12th Street Rickwood-Mat
14th Street Corridor
19th Street Bush-Tuxedo
3rd Avenue West-PH11MA
41 Street & 1 Avenue So
Coalburg Road
Ensley Avenue (20th to W)
Finley Avenue Extension
Jefferson Avenue
Oporto Madrid Street Improvement
Pratt Highway Bridge
Railroad Reservation Grant Match
Parks and Recreation - $18 million
Apple Valley Recreation Center
Avondale Park
Brownsville Heights Community Center
Civil Rights Trail Signage
Cooper Green Park
Crestwood Park
Dolomite-Westfield Park
Fountain Heights Recreation Center
Harriman Park Recreation Center
HVAC Recreation Centers
Liberty Highlands Park
Memorial Park
Wiggins Park
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Streets - $2.7 million
12th Street Rickwood-Mat
14th Street Corridor
19th Street Bush-Tuxedo
3rd Avenue West-PH11MA
41 Street & 1 Avenue So
Coalburg Road
Ensley Avenue (20th to W)
Finley Avenue Extension
Jefferson Avenue
Oporto Madrid Street Improvement
Pratt Highway Bridge
Railroad Reservation Grant Match
Parks and Recreation - $18 million
Apple Valley Recreation Center
Avondale Park
Brownsville Heights Community Center
Civil Rights Trail Signage
Cooper Green Park
Crestwood Park
Dolomite-Westfield Park
Fountain Heights Recreation Center
Harriman Park Recreation Center
HVAC Recreation Centers
Liberty Highlands Park
Memorial Park
Wiggins Park
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
New streamlined office could save money for Birmingham schools
By Johnathan Hardison
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham City Schools' new superintendent says his plan to streamline the system's central office could save a million dollars a year for the shrinking system.
Dr. Craig Witherspoon released his plan Tuesday night to cut jobs and expenses at the central office in an effort to put more money in the classroom.
Dr. Witherspoon's plan would radically change the school system's central office. Under the plan, most of the administration would report to four chief officers in charge of academics, human resources, finances, and operations. The biggest changes would come in the form of cutting jobs; going from 4 assistant superintendents to 2, not filling the open chief of staff position, and hiring an in-house attorney to handle most of the system's legal work rather than using multiple outside law firms on a contract basis.
Witherspoon says his goal was putting more of the system's shrinking funding into the classroom.
"How do we best serve the needs of schools?" Witherspoon asked. "And in streamlining, are we effective and efficient, do our various departments talk, collaborate with each other so that everyone's on the same page and we're able to deliver that service."
The plan appears to have support among a majority of board members and the teachers union.
"I have a few questions with how that trickles down and the additional cuts will be made, but thus far I'm very pleased with the proposal as he presented it," said board member April Williams.
"We didn't have any choice but to re-organize," said board member Tyrone Belcher. "So we are re-organizing and I think it's for the good of the Birmingham Public School System, and I think it's going to be pretty good. "
"We're finally glad to see a superintendent who's brave enough to come to Birmingham, and make these recommendations," said Lance Hyche of the local AEA chapter. "We say cut the administration at the central office, save millions of dollars, get rid of those overpaid lawyers. Put money in the classroom, let's protect those employees, I'm glad to see he's doing that."
The school board will have to vote on this plan and all of its changes before any of it can take effect.
The system faces an end-of-May deadline to make any changes they want to make sure whatever new system takes shape is in place before next school year.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham City Schools' new superintendent says his plan to streamline the system's central office could save a million dollars a year for the shrinking system.
Dr. Craig Witherspoon released his plan Tuesday night to cut jobs and expenses at the central office in an effort to put more money in the classroom.
Dr. Witherspoon's plan would radically change the school system's central office. Under the plan, most of the administration would report to four chief officers in charge of academics, human resources, finances, and operations. The biggest changes would come in the form of cutting jobs; going from 4 assistant superintendents to 2, not filling the open chief of staff position, and hiring an in-house attorney to handle most of the system's legal work rather than using multiple outside law firms on a contract basis.
Witherspoon says his goal was putting more of the system's shrinking funding into the classroom.
"How do we best serve the needs of schools?" Witherspoon asked. "And in streamlining, are we effective and efficient, do our various departments talk, collaborate with each other so that everyone's on the same page and we're able to deliver that service."
The plan appears to have support among a majority of board members and the teachers union.
"I have a few questions with how that trickles down and the additional cuts will be made, but thus far I'm very pleased with the proposal as he presented it," said board member April Williams.
"We didn't have any choice but to re-organize," said board member Tyrone Belcher. "So we are re-organizing and I think it's for the good of the Birmingham Public School System, and I think it's going to be pretty good. "
"We're finally glad to see a superintendent who's brave enough to come to Birmingham, and make these recommendations," said Lance Hyche of the local AEA chapter. "We say cut the administration at the central office, save millions of dollars, get rid of those overpaid lawyers. Put money in the classroom, let's protect those employees, I'm glad to see he's doing that."
The school board will have to vote on this plan and all of its changes before any of it can take effect.
The system faces an end-of-May deadline to make any changes they want to make sure whatever new system takes shape is in place before next school year.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham Police arrest several suspects in prostitution sting
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The Birmingham Police Department has announced that eight suspects have been charged after a BPD Vice Unit prostitution sting in the 5000 block of 1st Avenue North on Thursday April 22, 2010.
The suspects have been identified as:
Felipe Shantez Soliciting for Prostitution
Gary Piazza Soliciting for Prostitution
David Kimani Soliciting for Prostitution
Robert Bell Soliciting for Prostitution
Daniel Boone Jr. Soliciting for Prostitution
Caesar Hunter Soliciting for Prostitution
Albert Ward Loitering for Prostitution
Bang Huynh Loitering for Prostitution
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The suspects have been identified as:
Felipe Shantez Soliciting for Prostitution
Gary Piazza Soliciting for Prostitution
David Kimani Soliciting for Prostitution
Robert Bell Soliciting for Prostitution
Daniel Boone Jr. Soliciting for Prostitution
Caesar Hunter Soliciting for Prostitution
Albert Ward Loitering for Prostitution
Bang Huynh Loitering for Prostitution
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Two arrested for mailing hoax letters
PELL CITY, AL (WBRC) – U.S. postal inspectors have announced the arrest of two men for mailing letters containing white powder at the Pell City Post Office.
38-year-old Clifton Lamar Dodd and 38-year-old Milstead Earl Darden were arrested on charges of mailing hoax letters Saturday after they deposited letters into an outdoor drop box. Investigators say that around 8:00 p.m., Dodd dropped off eight letters in the box and was arrested once postal authorities opened the box to find letters leaking white powder with similar handwriting to earlier letters.
Dodd is a suspect in the mailing of 17 letters in March and April that contained the powder. One of the letters was received at U.S. Senator Richard Shelby’s office in Birmingham. Other recipients included several officials in Talladega County and inmates who were at the Talladega County Jail with Dodd.
Authorities say the hoax letters from March and April are not connected to 11 letters mailed in January to U.S. senators and representatives in Alabama. Dodd and Darden are not considered suspects in that case.
“When people receive or handle mailed letters that contain white powder, they are put in fear of whether their health is at risk and must endure medical precautions against poisonous contaminants,” said U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance. “The response and testing required on every potentially hazardous letter costs taxpayers thousands of dollars. We will always thoroughly investigate and vigorously prosecute these cases.”
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
38-year-old Clifton Lamar Dodd and 38-year-old Milstead Earl Darden were arrested on charges of mailing hoax letters Saturday after they deposited letters into an outdoor drop box. Investigators say that around 8:00 p.m., Dodd dropped off eight letters in the box and was arrested once postal authorities opened the box to find letters leaking white powder with similar handwriting to earlier letters.
Dodd is a suspect in the mailing of 17 letters in March and April that contained the powder. One of the letters was received at U.S. Senator Richard Shelby’s office in Birmingham. Other recipients included several officials in Talladega County and inmates who were at the Talladega County Jail with Dodd.
Authorities say the hoax letters from March and April are not connected to 11 letters mailed in January to U.S. senators and representatives in Alabama. Dodd and Darden are not considered suspects in that case.
“When people receive or handle mailed letters that contain white powder, they are put in fear of whether their health is at risk and must endure medical precautions against poisonous contaminants,” said U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance. “The response and testing required on every potentially hazardous letter costs taxpayers thousands of dollars. We will always thoroughly investigate and vigorously prosecute these cases.”
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Federal grand jury to address electronic bingo bribery issue
By Alan Collins
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - Next week, a federal grand jury will convene to address allegations of bribery in connection to the bill legalizing electronic bingo in Alabama.
One state senator who was not subpoenaed has already approached investigators with information involved in the case.
"Prior to the gambling vote, offers were made to me I felt were inappropriate. I took the information to the authorities. I am sharing that information with them and will continue to cooperate," Senator Steve French said.
French will not go into detail about the alleged incident because he could be called as a potential witness.
Meanwhile, Prattville Representative Mac Gibson, who voted against the bill in a House committee, says he has been subpoenaed to testify before the grand jury. "I know little about it. I was not in favor from the get-go in that situation, because the bill was not a straight up and down vote for people to vote on."Gibson said.
Senate minority leader Jabo Waggoner of Vestavia Hills was not subpoenaed, but he expects lawmakers and lobbyist will be called before the grand jury. "There were subpoenas served last week and this week. I've heard as many as 50 to 60 pertaining to the bingo issue, maybe to some other issues," Waggoner said.
At first, many Alabama lawmakers thought federal investigators were on a fishing expedition with the corruption probe despite those investigators announcing they had substantial evidence. With the grand jury convening so soon after the end of the legislature, that is changing.
"Hopefully it's a scare tactic. I hope that's the best case scenario, but if something comes out of it, it's a real black eye for the legislature," Representative John Rogers said. Rogers has also not been subpoenaed.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - Next week, a federal grand jury will convene to address allegations of bribery in connection to the bill legalizing electronic bingo in Alabama.
One state senator who was not subpoenaed has already approached investigators with information involved in the case.
"Prior to the gambling vote, offers were made to me I felt were inappropriate. I took the information to the authorities. I am sharing that information with them and will continue to cooperate," Senator Steve French said.
French will not go into detail about the alleged incident because he could be called as a potential witness.
Meanwhile, Prattville Representative Mac Gibson, who voted against the bill in a House committee, says he has been subpoenaed to testify before the grand jury. "I know little about it. I was not in favor from the get-go in that situation, because the bill was not a straight up and down vote for people to vote on."Gibson said.
Senate minority leader Jabo Waggoner of Vestavia Hills was not subpoenaed, but he expects lawmakers and lobbyist will be called before the grand jury. "There were subpoenas served last week and this week. I've heard as many as 50 to 60 pertaining to the bingo issue, maybe to some other issues," Waggoner said.
At first, many Alabama lawmakers thought federal investigators were on a fishing expedition with the corruption probe despite those investigators announcing they had substantial evidence. With the grand jury convening so soon after the end of the legislature, that is changing.
"Hopefully it's a scare tactic. I hope that's the best case scenario, but if something comes out of it, it's a real black eye for the legislature," Representative John Rogers said. Rogers has also not been subpoenaed.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
New Student Ticket Program at University of Alabama
By Kelvin Reynolds
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - Many University of Alabama students say they lived a horror story during Alabama championship football season last year.
"Man, I logged on my mybama account, logged on the same time as anybody else, but just like 10,000 other students, I didn't get my tickets," said David Harris.
Students blame a fierce ticket demand that overloaded the application system.
David Fowler, the new Student Government Association President at the University of Alabama, believes those problems will not happen again. "We heard many complaints. It was a waiting room system and the system was not a true first-come first-serve because there were so many system difficulties with so many people logging on," said Fowler.
Here's how the new system would work:
First, students will log onto their mybama account and request they want to buy tickets later this year.
Secondly, their accumulated credit hours will determine what day of the week they can apply for tickets later this year.
This would make much harder for too many people to log on at the same time and overload the system. According to Fowler, students will be broken up into groups of 30 credit hours. For example, students with 0 to 30 credit hours can apply for tickets on June 14th. Those with 30 to 60 credit hours can apply June 15th. Students with 61 to 90 credit hours have to apply on June 16th. Students with 91 or more credit hours can apply on June 17th. Graduate students get to apply for tickets on June 18th.
Stadium expansion gives many students a better chance at getting tickets. An additional 2000 seats for students during the upcoming football season brings to total number of seats in the student section to 17,000 according to Fowler.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - Many University of Alabama students say they lived a horror story during Alabama championship football season last year.
"Man, I logged on my mybama account, logged on the same time as anybody else, but just like 10,000 other students, I didn't get my tickets," said David Harris.
Students blame a fierce ticket demand that overloaded the application system.
David Fowler, the new Student Government Association President at the University of Alabama, believes those problems will not happen again. "We heard many complaints. It was a waiting room system and the system was not a true first-come first-serve because there were so many system difficulties with so many people logging on," said Fowler.
Here's how the new system would work:
First, students will log onto their mybama account and request they want to buy tickets later this year.
Secondly, their accumulated credit hours will determine what day of the week they can apply for tickets later this year.
This would make much harder for too many people to log on at the same time and overload the system. According to Fowler, students will be broken up into groups of 30 credit hours. For example, students with 0 to 30 credit hours can apply for tickets on June 14th. Those with 30 to 60 credit hours can apply June 15th. Students with 61 to 90 credit hours have to apply on June 16th. Students with 91 or more credit hours can apply on June 17th. Graduate students get to apply for tickets on June 18th.
Stadium expansion gives many students a better chance at getting tickets. An additional 2000 seats for students during the upcoming football season brings to total number of seats in the student section to 17,000 according to Fowler.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Hoover residents to vote on extending property tax
By Melanie Posey
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) - Hoover residents will head to the polls for a special election Tuesday.
At issue is whether to extend an existing property tax.
In the 1980s and 1990s, Hoover's population began to explode. The city was forced to build many new schools in effort to keep up with the growth. They levied a tax to handle the debt. That tax is set to expire in 2027, but now school and city officials want to extend it another 18 years. That would cause it to expire in the year 2045 instead.
"We're not raising taxes," says Hoover Mayor Tony Petelos. "It's like refinancing your home from a 15-year mortgage to a 30-year mortgage. The debt service now is about 16-million dollars a year. Doing the refinancing means we could see a drop of 6-million dollars a year."
School officials say that is equivalent to the salary and benefits of 70 teachers. "It'll help us essentially invest in the classroom more so as opposed to what amounts to a mortgage payment," says Hoover City Schools Superintendent Andy Craig. "And with a loss in revenue we've experienced recently we want to better position ourselves to provide the quality of service our community expects."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) - Hoover residents will head to the polls for a special election Tuesday.
At issue is whether to extend an existing property tax.
In the 1980s and 1990s, Hoover's population began to explode. The city was forced to build many new schools in effort to keep up with the growth. They levied a tax to handle the debt. That tax is set to expire in 2027, but now school and city officials want to extend it another 18 years. That would cause it to expire in the year 2045 instead.
"We're not raising taxes," says Hoover Mayor Tony Petelos. "It's like refinancing your home from a 15-year mortgage to a 30-year mortgage. The debt service now is about 16-million dollars a year. Doing the refinancing means we could see a drop of 6-million dollars a year."
School officials say that is equivalent to the salary and benefits of 70 teachers. "It'll help us essentially invest in the classroom more so as opposed to what amounts to a mortgage payment," says Hoover City Schools Superintendent Andy Craig. "And with a loss in revenue we've experienced recently we want to better position ourselves to provide the quality of service our community expects."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
GULF SHORES, AL (WBRC) - Coast Guard crews are keep their eyes on Alabama's gulf coast. They say oil could start showing up on a broad section of the
Coast guard crews are keep their eyes on Alabama’s gulf coast. They say oil could start showing up on a broad section of the coast line including Alabama in about three days.
The oil is coming from a wrecked drilling platform about 50 miles off the coast of Louisiana. The rig, which was destroyed by an explosion and fire, is gushing 42,000 gallons of oil a day.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The oil is coming from a wrecked drilling platform about 50 miles off the coast of Louisiana. The rig, which was destroyed by an explosion and fire, is gushing 42,000 gallons of oil a day.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Gadsden police seek child abduction suspect
By Dixon Hayes
GADSDEN, AL (WBRC) - Gadsden Police have released a composite photo of a man who allegedly tried to kidnap a ten year old girl last week.
The incident happened on Dozier Street, in the Alabama City area, last Wednesday around 6 p.m. The girl was leaving a friend's house and headed home when the man grabbed her, and ran into the woods on the dead-end portion of that street.
The woods led to a small drainage creek, and that's where two people saw the man and the girl in the vacinity of Clayton and Charles Streets. The man dropped the girl, and she ran one way while the man ran the opposite direction. A manhunt involving Gadsden Police, Etowah County deputies and a dog team from St. Clair County failed to find the man.
The department's spokesman, Capt. Jeff Wright, says the suspect is between 6' and 6'3" tall, with gold upper teeth, a haert tattoo with some sort of name on it (right forearm), and was wearing an orange or yellow shirt, and had a gold necklace that looked like a dollar sign. The composite sketch shows a beard, but the girl told police she believed the beard was fake.
Wright says anyone who would've gotten through those woods that quickly would have to be familiar with that area, and didn't rule out the possibility the man might be a transient who lives in the woods.
Anyone with information on the suspect should call the Gadsden Police at (256) 549-4500.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
GADSDEN, AL (WBRC) - Gadsden Police have released a composite photo of a man who allegedly tried to kidnap a ten year old girl last week.
The incident happened on Dozier Street, in the Alabama City area, last Wednesday around 6 p.m. The girl was leaving a friend's house and headed home when the man grabbed her, and ran into the woods on the dead-end portion of that street.
The woods led to a small drainage creek, and that's where two people saw the man and the girl in the vacinity of Clayton and Charles Streets. The man dropped the girl, and she ran one way while the man ran the opposite direction. A manhunt involving Gadsden Police, Etowah County deputies and a dog team from St. Clair County failed to find the man.
The department's spokesman, Capt. Jeff Wright, says the suspect is between 6' and 6'3" tall, with gold upper teeth, a haert tattoo with some sort of name on it (right forearm), and was wearing an orange or yellow shirt, and had a gold necklace that looked like a dollar sign. The composite sketch shows a beard, but the girl told police she believed the beard was fake.
Wright says anyone who would've gotten through those woods that quickly would have to be familiar with that area, and didn't rule out the possibility the man might be a transient who lives in the woods.
Anyone with information on the suspect should call the Gadsden Police at (256) 549-4500.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Six tornadoes confirmed in Alabama
Alabama tornadoes
NWS survey reports
As of 9am Monday, April 25, 2010, six tornadoes had been confirmed in the state of Alabama. However, two teams of National Weather Service meteorologists are out today doing more storm surveys in Sumter, Marengo, Hale, Bibb, Walker, and Fayette counties, so the count may rise after those surveys are complete. Details below.
Birmingham NWS
http://www.srh.noaa.gov/bmx/
Huntsville NWS
http://www.srh.noaa.gov/hun/
Walker/Jefferson/Blount County (Parrish) tornado
EF-3
Damage path: 30 miles
Damage width: 400 yards (less than 1/4 mile)
70-80 homes and businesses damaged
No injuries nor deaths from tornado, but 50-year-old woman died after she slipped and fell on her way to storm shelter
Marion County tornado
EF-0
Damage path: 7 miles
Damage width: 200 yards (less than 1/8 mile)
3 homes damaged in Gu-win and Brilliant
Blount/Marshall County tornado
EF-1
Damage path: 2 miles
Damage width: 200 yards (less than 1/8 mile)
3 structures damaged northeast of Brooksville
Marshall/DeKalb County (Albertville-Mentone) tornado
EF-3
Damage path: 20 miles
Damage width: 3/4 mile (1,300 yards)
Significant damage in Albertville to Geraldine and just south of Mentone
33+ hurt by storm
DeKalb County (Mount Vernon-Collinsville) tornado
EF-3
Damage path: 7 miles
Damage width: 1/2 mile (880 yards)
Church, several homes damaged or destroyed
Several injuries
Cullman County (Phelan-Welti) tornado
EF-2
Damage path: 6 miles
Damage width: 300 yards (1/6 mile)
Several structures damaged
PUBLIC INFORMATION STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE BIRMINGHAM AL
830 AM CDT MON APR 25 2010
...NWS STORM ASSESSMENT SURVEYS...
...UPDATED FOR THE PLAN OF THE DAY FOR MONDAY...
MULTIPLE SUPERCELL THUNDERSTORMS DEVELOPED AND TRACKED
NORTHEASTWARD ACROSS CENTRAL ALABAMA BEGINNING SATURDAY MORNING
AND CONTINUED INTO THE OVERNIGHT HOURS SATURDAY NIGHT. NUMEROUS
DAMAGE REPORTS WERE RECEIVED THROUGHOUT THE EVENT...WITH
CONCENTRATED DAMAGE IN SEVERAL COUNTIES.
...WALKER/JEFFERSON/BLOUNT COUNTY TORNADO...
EVENT DATE: 24 APRIL, 2010
EVENT TYPE: EF-3
ESTIMATED PEAK WINDS (MPH): 140
INJURIES/FATALITIES: NONE
EVENT START TIME/LOCATION COORDINATES: 10:04 PM/33.7336N 87.2864W
EVENT END TIME/LOCATION COORDINATES: 10:55 PM/33.8532N 86.7931W
DAMAGE PATH LENGTH (IN MILES): 29.5 MILES
DAMAGE WIDTH (IN YARDS): 400 YARDS
WARNINGS: TORNADO WARNING #25/10:01PM TO 10:30PM
TORNADO WARNING #26/10:22PM TO 11:00 PM
WATCHES: TORNADO WATCH #99 VALID FROM 715PM CDT TO 2 AM 25 APRIL
2010.
THIS LONG TRACK TORNADO CAUSED EXTENSIVE DAMAGE IN PARRISH, AND
CONTINUED A PATH OF DAMAGE ACROSS NORTHERN JEFFERSON AND
SOUTHWESTERN BLOUNT COUNTIES. A TOTAL OF 70 TO 80 HOMES AND
BUSINESSES WERE DAMAGED, WITH ONE HOME DESTROYED. APPROXIMATELY
800 TO 1000 HARDWOOD AND SOFTWOOD TREES WERE EITHER UPROOTED OR
SNAPPED ALONG THE PATH OF THE STORM. THERE WAS ONE INDIRECT
FATALITY CAUSED WHEN A 50 YEAR OLD WOMAN SLIPPED AND FELL WHILE
GOING TO STORM SHELTER IN WALKER COUNTY.
...MARION COUNTY TORNADO...
EVENT DATE: 24 APRIL, 2010
EVENT TYPE: EF-0
ESTIMATED PEAK WINDS (MPH): 80
INJURIES/FATALITIES: NONE
EVENT START TIME/LOCATION COORDINATES: 4:27 PM/33.9491N 87.8591W
EVENT END TIME/LOCATION COORDINATES: 4:38 PM/34.0201N 87.7683W
DAMAGE PATH LENGTH (IN MILES): 7.22 MILES
DAMAGE WIDTH (IN YARDS): 200 YARDS
A WEAK TORNADO FORMED JUST SOUTH OF THE CITY OF GU-WIN AND TRAVELED
TO THE NORTHEAST CREATING A NON-CONTINUOUS PATH OF DAMAGE FOR A
LITTLE MORE THAN 7 MILES. THREE HOMES TOOK THE BRUNT OF THE DAMAGE
ALONG COUNTY ROAD 47 SOUTHWEST OF THE CITY OF BRILLIANT. ONE HOME
HAD MINOR DAMAGE DUE TO TREES FALLING ON TOP OF IT AND ONE OF THE
TREES THAT WAS UPROOTED FLIPPED OVER A MINIVAN. THE SECOND HOME HAD
MINOR ROOF DAMAGE BUT 2 OUTBUILDINGS WERE DESTROYED. THE THIRD HOME
INCURRED MAJOR STRUCTURAL DAMAGE TO THE GARAGE WHEN THE WINDWARD
SIDE OF THE GARAGE WAS BLOWN IN. THERE WAS ALSO AN OUTBUILDING
FLIPPED OVER AT THIS LOCATION. IN TOTAL, THERE WERE APPROXIMATELY
40-60 HARDWOOD TREES UPROOTED ALONG THE PATH.
...BLOUNT/MARSHALL COUNTY TORNADO...
EVENT DATE: 24 APRIL, 2010
EVENT TYPE: EF-1
ESTIMATED PEAK WINDS (MPH): 100
INJURIES/FATALITIES: NONE
EVENT START TIME/LOCATION COORDINATES: 9:59 PM/34.1917N 86.4146W
EVENT END TIME/LOCATION COORDINATES: 10:09 PM/34.2012N 86.3697W
DAMAGE PATH LENGTH (IN MILES): 2.18 MILES
DAMAGE WIDTH (IN YARDS): 200 YARDS
A WEAK TORNADO FORMED FOUR MILES NORTHEAST OF BROOKSVILLE AND
TRAVELED NORTHEAST INTO MARSHALL COUNTY, ENDING NEAR COUNTY ROAD 12.
THREE STRUCTURES WERE DAMAGED. ONE MOBILE HOME WAS MOVE OFF ITS
FOUNDATION. ONE BARN WAS DESTROYED AND ONE SINGLE FAMILY HOME LOST
PART OF ITS ROOF. SEVERAL HUNDRED TREES WERE UPROOTED OR SNAPPED.
WARNINGS: TORNADO WARNING #23/9:11 PM TO 10:00 PM
WATCHES: TORNADO WATCH #99 VALID FROM 715 PM CDT TO 2 AM 25 APRIL
2010.
SURVEYS HAVE BEEN SCHEDULED FOR MONDAY. TEAM ONE WILL SURVEY DAMAGE
IN SUMTER...MARENGO...HALE...AND BIBB COUNTIES. DAMAGE WAS REPORTED
IN THE WARD COMMUNITY IN SOUTHERN SUMTER COUNTY...AS WELL AS IN AND
AROUND THE CITY OF DEMOPOLIS CONTINUING INTO SOUTHERN HALE COUNTY.
THERE WAS ANOTHER REPORT OF A POSSIBLE DAMAGE IN CENTRAL BIBB
COUNTY NEAR THE WEST BLOCTON AREA. TEAM 2 WILL SURVEY DAMAGE THAT
WAS REPORTED AS A STORM EXITED FAYETTE COUNTY AND ENTERED EASTERN
WALKER COUNTY. DAMAGE WAS REPORTED IN THE OAKMAN AREA.
ADDITIONAL PUBLIC INFORMATION STATEMENTS WILL BE ISSUED PERIODICALLY
THROUGH THE DAY...AS SURVEY TEAMS REPORT BACK THEIR FINDINGS.
A MAJOR CONTRIBUTION TO THE SUCCESS OF OUR SEVERE WEATHER WARNING
PROGRAM IS THE RECEIPT OF STORM REPORTS FROM ALL OUR CUSTOMERS AND
PARTNERS ACROSS CENTRAL ALABAMA. IF YOU WITNESSED OR ARE AWARE OF
ANY STORM DAMAGE DUE TO HIGH WINDS OR TORNADOES...PLEASE CONTACT
YOUR LOCAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT OFFICE...OR CALL OUR STORM REPORTING
HOTLINE AT 1-800-856-0758.
$$
NOUS44 KHUN 260250
PNSHUN
ALZ001>010-016-TNZ076-096-097-261500-
PUBLIC INFORMATION STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE HUNTSVILLE AL
950 PM CDT SUN APR 25 2010
...PRELIMINARY STORM SURVEY INFORMATION FROM DEKALB AND MARSHALL
COUNTIES...
A PRELIMINARY STORM SURVEY OF THE DAMAGE INCURRED ACROSS DEKALB
AND MARSHALL COUNTIES HAS BEEN COMPLETED BY NATIONAL WEATHER
SERVICE...MARSHALL AND DEKALB EMA...AND ALABAMA EMA. INITIAL
FINDINGS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
TORNADO 1:
THE FIRST TORNADIC STORM MOVED ACROSS MARSHALL AND DEKALB
COUNTIES. DUE TO DARKNESS...IT WAS IMPOSSIBLE TO DETERMINE IF THE
TWO SECTIONS OF THE SURVEYED DAMAGE ARE A SINGLE TRACK OR TWO
SEPARATE TRACKS. UNTIL A FINAL DETERMINATION CAN BE MADE...THE
DAMAGE AREAS WILL BE ADDRESSED BY SECTIONS. ADDITIONAL SURVEYS ARE
PLANNED MONDAY.
THE NUMBER OF INJURIES IS IN EXCESS OF 33.
SECTION 1: ALBERTVILLE TO GERALDINE
* EVENT TYPE: TORNADO
* EVENT DATE: 04/24/10
* ESTIMATED PEAK WIND: 140 MPH
* PRELIMINARY RATING: EF-3
* PATH LENGTH: 18.5 MILES
* MAXIMUM PATH WIDTH: 3/4 MILE
* SUMMARY: THIS SECTION TOUCHED DOWN EAST OF ALBERTVILLE...MOVED
ACROSS THE CITY...THEN MOVED NORTHEASTWARD INTO THE TOWN OF
GERALDINE. THE CITY OF ALBERTVILLE WAS ESPECIALLY HARD HIT...
WITH DAMAGE TO NUMEROUS RESIDENCES...ALBERTVILLE HIGH SCHOOL...
SEVERAL LARGE RETAIL BUILDINGS. EXTENSIVE TREE DAMAGE WAS ALSO
OBSERVED THROUGHOUT THE DAMAGE PATH. IN THE TOWN OF GERALDINE...
NUMEROUS LARGE TREES WERE SNAPPED OR UPROOTED WHICH ALSO LED TO
SOME STRUCTURAL DAMAGE TO RESIDENCES. THIS WAS NOTED ALONG
COUNTY ROAD 227 AND 52...JUST SOUTHEAST OF HIGHWAY 75.
SECTION 2: NEAR MENTONE
* EVENT TYPE: TORNADO
* EVENT DATE: 04/24/10
* ESTIMATED PEAK WIND: 140 MPH
* PRELIMINARY RATING: EF-3
* PATH LENGTH: 2.0 MILES
* MAXIMUM PATH WIDTH: 1/4 MILE
* SUMMARY: THIS SECTION OF THE TORNADO TOUCHED DOWN ABOUT 3 TO 4
MILES SOUTHEAST OF MENTONE...BETWEEN COUNTY ROAD 106 AND 117.
THE MOST SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE OCCURRED TO A TRAILER PARK (MORNING
GLORY COURT) WHERE SEVERAL SINGLE WIDE MANUFACTURED HOMES WERE
COMPLETELY DESTROYED. NUMEROUS LARGE TREES WERE ALSO SNAPPED OR
UPROOTED.
SEVERAL INJURIES OCCURRED WITH THIS TORNADO BUT AN EXACT NUMBER
IS UNKNOWN AT THIS TIME.
TORNADO 2: MOUNT VERNON (NORTHEAST OF COLLINSVILLE)
* EVENT TYPE: TORNADO
* EVENT DATE: 04/24/10
* ESTIMATED PEAK WIND: 150 MPH
* PRELIMINARY RATING: EF-3
* PATH LENGTH: 7.3 MILES
* MAXIMUM PATH WIDTH: 1/4 TO 1/2 MILE
* SUMMARY: AS PART OF A SEPARATE STORM...THIS TORNADO IMPACTED THE
AREAS FROM MOUNT VERNON TO DOG TOWN IN EXTREME SOUTHEAST DEKALB
COUNTY. THE MOST SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE OCCURRED NEAR THE
INTERSECTION OF COUNTY ROAD 80 AND 55 WHERE THE MCNUTT MEMORIAL
UNITED METHODIST CHURCH AND A SMALLER HOUSE NEXT TO IT WERE BOTH
DESTROYED. OAK TREES NEARBY WERE DEBARKED AS WELL. STRUCTURAL
DAMAGE TO RESIDENCES ALONG COUNTY ROAD 79 OCCURRED...JUST WEST
OF HIGHWAY 176. FARTHER WEST WHERE THE TORNADO INITIALLY TOUCHED
DOWN...SEVERAL SINGLE WIDE MANUFACTURED HOMES WERE DESTROYED
ALONG COUNTY ROAD 60...BETWEEN COUNTY ROAD 822 AND 892. NUMEROUS
LARGE TREES WERE SNAPPED OR UPROOTED.
SEVERAL INJURIES OCCURRED WITH THIS TORNADO BUT AN EXACT NUMBER
IS UNKNOWN AT THIS TIME.
THESE FINDINGS ARE PRELIMINARY AND ARE SUBJECT TO ADJUSTMENT.
PICTURES AND SUMMARY MATERIALS WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE ON OUR WEB
PAGE AT WEATHER.GOV/HUNTSVILLE /ALL LOWER CASE/.
SURVEYED BY: COYNE/WHITE
NADLER/AMIN
NOUS44 KHUN 251821
PNSHUN
ALZ001>010-016-TNZ076-096-097-260630-
PUBLIC INFORMATION STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE HUNTSVILLE AL
121 PM CDT SUN APR 25 2010
...PRELIMINARY STORM SURVEY INFORMATION FROM CULLMAN COUNTY...
A PRELIMINARY STORM SURVEY OF THE DAMAGE INCURRED ACROSS CULLMAN
COUNTY HAS BEEN COMPLETED BY NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PERSONNEL.
INITIAL FINDINGS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
* EVENT TYPE: TORNADO
* EVENT DATE: 04/24/10
* EVENT TIME: 713 PM CDT
* ESTIMATED PEAK WIND: 115.0 MPH
* PRELIMINARY RATING: EF-2
* PATH LENGTH: 6 MILES
* MAXIMUM PATH WIDTH: 300 YARDS
* SUMMARY: AN EF-2 TORNADO FIRST TOUCHED DOWN ON HIGHWAY 31 JUST
SOUTH OF THE COUNTY ROAD 601 INTERSECTION. THE TORNADO DAMAGED
ROOFS TO TWO BUSINESSES IN THE PHELAN COMMUNITY. THE TORNADO
THEN MOVED NORTHEAST AND DOWNED SEVERAL POWER LINES AND SNAPPED
AND UPROOTED OVER 100 TREES INCLUDING PINE AND OAK TREES. MINOR
ROOF DAMAGE WAS OBSERVED ON A HOUSE ON COUNTY ROAD 601 AND A
CARPORT WAS DESTROYED ON COUNTY ROAD 622 LOOP. BEFORE THE
TORNADO CROSSED THE BROGLEN RIVER...OVER 20 PINE TREES WERE
SNAPPED. TWO CHICKEN HOUSES WERE DESTROYED AND SEVERAL TREES
WERE DOWNED NEAR COUNTY ROAD 747 IN THE WELTI COMMUNITY. TIN
ROOF DEBRIS FROM THE CHICKEN HOUSES WAS THROWN OVER ONE MILE
ALONG THE TORNADO PATH. THE TORNADO FINALLY LIFTED ON COUNTY
ROAD 643 BUT NOT BEFORE CAUSING ROOF DAMAGE TO A BARN AND
KNOCKING DOWN SEVERAL TREES.
THESE FINDINGS ARE PRELIMINARY AND ARE SUBJECT TO ADJUSTMENT.
PICTURES AND SUMMARY MATERIALS WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE ON OUR WEB
PAGE AT WEATHER.GOV/HUNTSVILLE /ALL LOWER CASE/.
SURVEYED BY: KNS/JLL
NWS survey reports
As of 9am Monday, April 25, 2010, six tornadoes had been confirmed in the state of Alabama. However, two teams of National Weather Service meteorologists are out today doing more storm surveys in Sumter, Marengo, Hale, Bibb, Walker, and Fayette counties, so the count may rise after those surveys are complete. Details below.
Birmingham NWS
http://www.srh.noaa.gov/bmx/
Huntsville NWS
http://www.srh.noaa.gov/hun/
Walker/Jefferson/Blount County (Parrish) tornado
EF-3
Damage path: 30 miles
Damage width: 400 yards (less than 1/4 mile)
70-80 homes and businesses damaged
No injuries nor deaths from tornado, but 50-year-old woman died after she slipped and fell on her way to storm shelter
Marion County tornado
EF-0
Damage path: 7 miles
Damage width: 200 yards (less than 1/8 mile)
3 homes damaged in Gu-win and Brilliant
Blount/Marshall County tornado
EF-1
Damage path: 2 miles
Damage width: 200 yards (less than 1/8 mile)
3 structures damaged northeast of Brooksville
Marshall/DeKalb County (Albertville-Mentone) tornado
EF-3
Damage path: 20 miles
Damage width: 3/4 mile (1,300 yards)
Significant damage in Albertville to Geraldine and just south of Mentone
33+ hurt by storm
DeKalb County (Mount Vernon-Collinsville) tornado
EF-3
Damage path: 7 miles
Damage width: 1/2 mile (880 yards)
Church, several homes damaged or destroyed
Several injuries
Cullman County (Phelan-Welti) tornado
EF-2
Damage path: 6 miles
Damage width: 300 yards (1/6 mile)
Several structures damaged
PUBLIC INFORMATION STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE BIRMINGHAM AL
830 AM CDT MON APR 25 2010
...NWS STORM ASSESSMENT SURVEYS...
...UPDATED FOR THE PLAN OF THE DAY FOR MONDAY...
MULTIPLE SUPERCELL THUNDERSTORMS DEVELOPED AND TRACKED
NORTHEASTWARD ACROSS CENTRAL ALABAMA BEGINNING SATURDAY MORNING
AND CONTINUED INTO THE OVERNIGHT HOURS SATURDAY NIGHT. NUMEROUS
DAMAGE REPORTS WERE RECEIVED THROUGHOUT THE EVENT...WITH
CONCENTRATED DAMAGE IN SEVERAL COUNTIES.
...WALKER/JEFFERSON/BLOUNT COUNTY TORNADO...
EVENT DATE: 24 APRIL, 2010
EVENT TYPE: EF-3
ESTIMATED PEAK WINDS (MPH): 140
INJURIES/FATALITIES: NONE
EVENT START TIME/LOCATION COORDINATES: 10:04 PM/33.7336N 87.2864W
EVENT END TIME/LOCATION COORDINATES: 10:55 PM/33.8532N 86.7931W
DAMAGE PATH LENGTH (IN MILES): 29.5 MILES
DAMAGE WIDTH (IN YARDS): 400 YARDS
WARNINGS: TORNADO WARNING #25/10:01PM TO 10:30PM
TORNADO WARNING #26/10:22PM TO 11:00 PM
WATCHES: TORNADO WATCH #99 VALID FROM 715PM CDT TO 2 AM 25 APRIL
2010.
THIS LONG TRACK TORNADO CAUSED EXTENSIVE DAMAGE IN PARRISH, AND
CONTINUED A PATH OF DAMAGE ACROSS NORTHERN JEFFERSON AND
SOUTHWESTERN BLOUNT COUNTIES. A TOTAL OF 70 TO 80 HOMES AND
BUSINESSES WERE DAMAGED, WITH ONE HOME DESTROYED. APPROXIMATELY
800 TO 1000 HARDWOOD AND SOFTWOOD TREES WERE EITHER UPROOTED OR
SNAPPED ALONG THE PATH OF THE STORM. THERE WAS ONE INDIRECT
FATALITY CAUSED WHEN A 50 YEAR OLD WOMAN SLIPPED AND FELL WHILE
GOING TO STORM SHELTER IN WALKER COUNTY.
...MARION COUNTY TORNADO...
EVENT DATE: 24 APRIL, 2010
EVENT TYPE: EF-0
ESTIMATED PEAK WINDS (MPH): 80
INJURIES/FATALITIES: NONE
EVENT START TIME/LOCATION COORDINATES: 4:27 PM/33.9491N 87.8591W
EVENT END TIME/LOCATION COORDINATES: 4:38 PM/34.0201N 87.7683W
DAMAGE PATH LENGTH (IN MILES): 7.22 MILES
DAMAGE WIDTH (IN YARDS): 200 YARDS
A WEAK TORNADO FORMED JUST SOUTH OF THE CITY OF GU-WIN AND TRAVELED
TO THE NORTHEAST CREATING A NON-CONTINUOUS PATH OF DAMAGE FOR A
LITTLE MORE THAN 7 MILES. THREE HOMES TOOK THE BRUNT OF THE DAMAGE
ALONG COUNTY ROAD 47 SOUTHWEST OF THE CITY OF BRILLIANT. ONE HOME
HAD MINOR DAMAGE DUE TO TREES FALLING ON TOP OF IT AND ONE OF THE
TREES THAT WAS UPROOTED FLIPPED OVER A MINIVAN. THE SECOND HOME HAD
MINOR ROOF DAMAGE BUT 2 OUTBUILDINGS WERE DESTROYED. THE THIRD HOME
INCURRED MAJOR STRUCTURAL DAMAGE TO THE GARAGE WHEN THE WINDWARD
SIDE OF THE GARAGE WAS BLOWN IN. THERE WAS ALSO AN OUTBUILDING
FLIPPED OVER AT THIS LOCATION. IN TOTAL, THERE WERE APPROXIMATELY
40-60 HARDWOOD TREES UPROOTED ALONG THE PATH.
...BLOUNT/MARSHALL COUNTY TORNADO...
EVENT DATE: 24 APRIL, 2010
EVENT TYPE: EF-1
ESTIMATED PEAK WINDS (MPH): 100
INJURIES/FATALITIES: NONE
EVENT START TIME/LOCATION COORDINATES: 9:59 PM/34.1917N 86.4146W
EVENT END TIME/LOCATION COORDINATES: 10:09 PM/34.2012N 86.3697W
DAMAGE PATH LENGTH (IN MILES): 2.18 MILES
DAMAGE WIDTH (IN YARDS): 200 YARDS
A WEAK TORNADO FORMED FOUR MILES NORTHEAST OF BROOKSVILLE AND
TRAVELED NORTHEAST INTO MARSHALL COUNTY, ENDING NEAR COUNTY ROAD 12.
THREE STRUCTURES WERE DAMAGED. ONE MOBILE HOME WAS MOVE OFF ITS
FOUNDATION. ONE BARN WAS DESTROYED AND ONE SINGLE FAMILY HOME LOST
PART OF ITS ROOF. SEVERAL HUNDRED TREES WERE UPROOTED OR SNAPPED.
WARNINGS: TORNADO WARNING #23/9:11 PM TO 10:00 PM
WATCHES: TORNADO WATCH #99 VALID FROM 715 PM CDT TO 2 AM 25 APRIL
2010.
SURVEYS HAVE BEEN SCHEDULED FOR MONDAY. TEAM ONE WILL SURVEY DAMAGE
IN SUMTER...MARENGO...HALE...AND BIBB COUNTIES. DAMAGE WAS REPORTED
IN THE WARD COMMUNITY IN SOUTHERN SUMTER COUNTY...AS WELL AS IN AND
AROUND THE CITY OF DEMOPOLIS CONTINUING INTO SOUTHERN HALE COUNTY.
THERE WAS ANOTHER REPORT OF A POSSIBLE DAMAGE IN CENTRAL BIBB
COUNTY NEAR THE WEST BLOCTON AREA. TEAM 2 WILL SURVEY DAMAGE THAT
WAS REPORTED AS A STORM EXITED FAYETTE COUNTY AND ENTERED EASTERN
WALKER COUNTY. DAMAGE WAS REPORTED IN THE OAKMAN AREA.
ADDITIONAL PUBLIC INFORMATION STATEMENTS WILL BE ISSUED PERIODICALLY
THROUGH THE DAY...AS SURVEY TEAMS REPORT BACK THEIR FINDINGS.
A MAJOR CONTRIBUTION TO THE SUCCESS OF OUR SEVERE WEATHER WARNING
PROGRAM IS THE RECEIPT OF STORM REPORTS FROM ALL OUR CUSTOMERS AND
PARTNERS ACROSS CENTRAL ALABAMA. IF YOU WITNESSED OR ARE AWARE OF
ANY STORM DAMAGE DUE TO HIGH WINDS OR TORNADOES...PLEASE CONTACT
YOUR LOCAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT OFFICE...OR CALL OUR STORM REPORTING
HOTLINE AT 1-800-856-0758.
$$
NOUS44 KHUN 260250
PNSHUN
ALZ001>010-016-TNZ076-096-097-261500-
PUBLIC INFORMATION STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE HUNTSVILLE AL
950 PM CDT SUN APR 25 2010
...PRELIMINARY STORM SURVEY INFORMATION FROM DEKALB AND MARSHALL
COUNTIES...
A PRELIMINARY STORM SURVEY OF THE DAMAGE INCURRED ACROSS DEKALB
AND MARSHALL COUNTIES HAS BEEN COMPLETED BY NATIONAL WEATHER
SERVICE...MARSHALL AND DEKALB EMA...AND ALABAMA EMA. INITIAL
FINDINGS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
TORNADO 1:
THE FIRST TORNADIC STORM MOVED ACROSS MARSHALL AND DEKALB
COUNTIES. DUE TO DARKNESS...IT WAS IMPOSSIBLE TO DETERMINE IF THE
TWO SECTIONS OF THE SURVEYED DAMAGE ARE A SINGLE TRACK OR TWO
SEPARATE TRACKS. UNTIL A FINAL DETERMINATION CAN BE MADE...THE
DAMAGE AREAS WILL BE ADDRESSED BY SECTIONS. ADDITIONAL SURVEYS ARE
PLANNED MONDAY.
THE NUMBER OF INJURIES IS IN EXCESS OF 33.
SECTION 1: ALBERTVILLE TO GERALDINE
* EVENT TYPE: TORNADO
* EVENT DATE: 04/24/10
* ESTIMATED PEAK WIND: 140 MPH
* PRELIMINARY RATING: EF-3
* PATH LENGTH: 18.5 MILES
* MAXIMUM PATH WIDTH: 3/4 MILE
* SUMMARY: THIS SECTION TOUCHED DOWN EAST OF ALBERTVILLE...MOVED
ACROSS THE CITY...THEN MOVED NORTHEASTWARD INTO THE TOWN OF
GERALDINE. THE CITY OF ALBERTVILLE WAS ESPECIALLY HARD HIT...
WITH DAMAGE TO NUMEROUS RESIDENCES...ALBERTVILLE HIGH SCHOOL...
SEVERAL LARGE RETAIL BUILDINGS. EXTENSIVE TREE DAMAGE WAS ALSO
OBSERVED THROUGHOUT THE DAMAGE PATH. IN THE TOWN OF GERALDINE...
NUMEROUS LARGE TREES WERE SNAPPED OR UPROOTED WHICH ALSO LED TO
SOME STRUCTURAL DAMAGE TO RESIDENCES. THIS WAS NOTED ALONG
COUNTY ROAD 227 AND 52...JUST SOUTHEAST OF HIGHWAY 75.
SECTION 2: NEAR MENTONE
* EVENT TYPE: TORNADO
* EVENT DATE: 04/24/10
* ESTIMATED PEAK WIND: 140 MPH
* PRELIMINARY RATING: EF-3
* PATH LENGTH: 2.0 MILES
* MAXIMUM PATH WIDTH: 1/4 MILE
* SUMMARY: THIS SECTION OF THE TORNADO TOUCHED DOWN ABOUT 3 TO 4
MILES SOUTHEAST OF MENTONE...BETWEEN COUNTY ROAD 106 AND 117.
THE MOST SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE OCCURRED TO A TRAILER PARK (MORNING
GLORY COURT) WHERE SEVERAL SINGLE WIDE MANUFACTURED HOMES WERE
COMPLETELY DESTROYED. NUMEROUS LARGE TREES WERE ALSO SNAPPED OR
UPROOTED.
SEVERAL INJURIES OCCURRED WITH THIS TORNADO BUT AN EXACT NUMBER
IS UNKNOWN AT THIS TIME.
TORNADO 2: MOUNT VERNON (NORTHEAST OF COLLINSVILLE)
* EVENT TYPE: TORNADO
* EVENT DATE: 04/24/10
* ESTIMATED PEAK WIND: 150 MPH
* PRELIMINARY RATING: EF-3
* PATH LENGTH: 7.3 MILES
* MAXIMUM PATH WIDTH: 1/4 TO 1/2 MILE
* SUMMARY: AS PART OF A SEPARATE STORM...THIS TORNADO IMPACTED THE
AREAS FROM MOUNT VERNON TO DOG TOWN IN EXTREME SOUTHEAST DEKALB
COUNTY. THE MOST SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE OCCURRED NEAR THE
INTERSECTION OF COUNTY ROAD 80 AND 55 WHERE THE MCNUTT MEMORIAL
UNITED METHODIST CHURCH AND A SMALLER HOUSE NEXT TO IT WERE BOTH
DESTROYED. OAK TREES NEARBY WERE DEBARKED AS WELL. STRUCTURAL
DAMAGE TO RESIDENCES ALONG COUNTY ROAD 79 OCCURRED...JUST WEST
OF HIGHWAY 176. FARTHER WEST WHERE THE TORNADO INITIALLY TOUCHED
DOWN...SEVERAL SINGLE WIDE MANUFACTURED HOMES WERE DESTROYED
ALONG COUNTY ROAD 60...BETWEEN COUNTY ROAD 822 AND 892. NUMEROUS
LARGE TREES WERE SNAPPED OR UPROOTED.
SEVERAL INJURIES OCCURRED WITH THIS TORNADO BUT AN EXACT NUMBER
IS UNKNOWN AT THIS TIME.
THESE FINDINGS ARE PRELIMINARY AND ARE SUBJECT TO ADJUSTMENT.
PICTURES AND SUMMARY MATERIALS WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE ON OUR WEB
PAGE AT WEATHER.GOV/HUNTSVILLE /ALL LOWER CASE/.
SURVEYED BY: COYNE/WHITE
NADLER/AMIN
NOUS44 KHUN 251821
PNSHUN
ALZ001>010-016-TNZ076-096-097-260630-
PUBLIC INFORMATION STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE HUNTSVILLE AL
121 PM CDT SUN APR 25 2010
...PRELIMINARY STORM SURVEY INFORMATION FROM CULLMAN COUNTY...
A PRELIMINARY STORM SURVEY OF THE DAMAGE INCURRED ACROSS CULLMAN
COUNTY HAS BEEN COMPLETED BY NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PERSONNEL.
INITIAL FINDINGS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
* EVENT TYPE: TORNADO
* EVENT DATE: 04/24/10
* EVENT TIME: 713 PM CDT
* ESTIMATED PEAK WIND: 115.0 MPH
* PRELIMINARY RATING: EF-2
* PATH LENGTH: 6 MILES
* MAXIMUM PATH WIDTH: 300 YARDS
* SUMMARY: AN EF-2 TORNADO FIRST TOUCHED DOWN ON HIGHWAY 31 JUST
SOUTH OF THE COUNTY ROAD 601 INTERSECTION. THE TORNADO DAMAGED
ROOFS TO TWO BUSINESSES IN THE PHELAN COMMUNITY. THE TORNADO
THEN MOVED NORTHEAST AND DOWNED SEVERAL POWER LINES AND SNAPPED
AND UPROOTED OVER 100 TREES INCLUDING PINE AND OAK TREES. MINOR
ROOF DAMAGE WAS OBSERVED ON A HOUSE ON COUNTY ROAD 601 AND A
CARPORT WAS DESTROYED ON COUNTY ROAD 622 LOOP. BEFORE THE
TORNADO CROSSED THE BROGLEN RIVER...OVER 20 PINE TREES WERE
SNAPPED. TWO CHICKEN HOUSES WERE DESTROYED AND SEVERAL TREES
WERE DOWNED NEAR COUNTY ROAD 747 IN THE WELTI COMMUNITY. TIN
ROOF DEBRIS FROM THE CHICKEN HOUSES WAS THROWN OVER ONE MILE
ALONG THE TORNADO PATH. THE TORNADO FINALLY LIFTED ON COUNTY
ROAD 643 BUT NOT BEFORE CAUSING ROOF DAMAGE TO A BARN AND
KNOCKING DOWN SEVERAL TREES.
THESE FINDINGS ARE PRELIMINARY AND ARE SUBJECT TO ADJUSTMENT.
PICTURES AND SUMMARY MATERIALS WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE ON OUR WEB
PAGE AT WEATHER.GOV/HUNTSVILLE /ALL LOWER CASE/.
SURVEYED BY: KNS/JLL
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Storm cleanup begins in Empire
By Arielle Clay
EMPIRE, AL (WBRC) - Wind from the storm that ripped through the community of Empire blew the Assembly of God’s steeple to the ground.
“It was a pretty tough wind that caused this,” the church’s pastor said.
Service was cancelled Sunday at the church because of the damage and a power outage.
The church's steeple wasn't only the thing the wind knocked down. Trees fell along Empire Road blocking several driveways.
“Trying to get it where we can get out," Lloyd Thomas said. "Seven families live up on this road and can't nobody get out."
Thomas and his neighbors were stuck at home after several downed trees blocked off their driveway. Trees also damaged Thomas’ roof and garage.
“The front end of it is up in the truck now and it was back about 10 feet,” he said.
Several others living off of Empire Road worked to clear away trees.
“We were cutting trees from across the road so we can get out," Gary Leach said. "My wife has diabetes. If she needs medical help I can't get someone in here to help her."
Just down the road, Carolyn Franklin didn’t have to clear trees but still had to worry about fixing a missing roof.
“It took the roof completely off and the inside is completely drowned," she said.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
EMPIRE, AL (WBRC) - Wind from the storm that ripped through the community of Empire blew the Assembly of God’s steeple to the ground.
“It was a pretty tough wind that caused this,” the church’s pastor said.
Service was cancelled Sunday at the church because of the damage and a power outage.
The church's steeple wasn't only the thing the wind knocked down. Trees fell along Empire Road blocking several driveways.
“Trying to get it where we can get out," Lloyd Thomas said. "Seven families live up on this road and can't nobody get out."
Thomas and his neighbors were stuck at home after several downed trees blocked off their driveway. Trees also damaged Thomas’ roof and garage.
“The front end of it is up in the truck now and it was back about 10 feet,” he said.
Several others living off of Empire Road worked to clear away trees.
“We were cutting trees from across the road so we can get out," Gary Leach said. "My wife has diabetes. If she needs medical help I can't get someone in here to help her."
Just down the road, Carolyn Franklin didn’t have to clear trees but still had to worry about fixing a missing roof.
“It took the roof completely off and the inside is completely drowned," she said.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Storms cause damage in Walker County, northeast Alabama
PARRISH, AL (WBRC) - Severe storms caused damage to parts of Walker County and northeast Alabama late Saturday night, injuring several people.
About 11 p.m., emergency managers said a possible tornado damaged several homes, a garage and a few other structures in the Walker County town of Parrish. The severe storm also caused damage to homes in Cordova and Sumiton and snapped several trees and power lines throughout the county.
No injuries were reported from that storm.
A tornado also touched down overnight in the DeKalb County towns of Albertville and Geraldine, injuring several people and causing major damage to several homes and buildings.
In Albertville, emergency managers reported damage to several homes, the BP gas station on Hwy 431 and a mobile home park across from the Albertville Elementary School. The tornado leveled half a dozen homes in the Edmundson neighborhood.
The DeKalb County Emergency Management Agency said the hardest hit area was in Geraldine, where at least 10 people were hurt from the storms. Emergency managers said they are expected to be okay.
DeKalb County Schools Superintendent Charles Warren told WAFF there was some damage around Geraldine School.
The American Red Cross opened a shelter at the Boaz Senior Center for anyone whose homes were damaged or destroyed by the tornado. The Boaz Senior Center is located at 112 Church Street in Boaz.
Severe weather was also to blame for several areas of damage in Cullman County on Saturday afternoon, forcing emergency managers to open shelters there.
The Cullman County Emergency Management Agency said two businesses, including Walker Building Supply, were damaged on Highway 31 in Hanceville Emergency managers said a possible tornado also caused damage in the Welti community on county road 747 between Welti and Baileytown. Cullman County EMA Director Phyllis Little said several structures were damaged by trees and winds, including chicken houses blown across the road at Highway 639. They also reported lots of downed trees and power lines, flooding and power outages.
Cullman Chief of Police, Kenny Culpepper, reported street flooding at Hart Drive and Boltee Road and a downed tree blocking the road on Young Street.
Good Hope Mayor Corey Harbison said there was some wind damage and several flooding issues in town, but did not believe the damage was caused by a tornado.
Shelters opened to the public Saturday included the Cullman County Courthouse in Cullman, Vinemont-Providence Fire Department (Stations 1 and 2,) the city of Hanceville library, Garden City, and town hall at Good Hope.
The storms were part of a larger storm system that caused tornadoes across much of the southeastern United States on Saturday. Tornadoes killed 10 people and caused heavy damage to more than 100 homes in parts of Yazoo City, Miss., and was responsible for damage in 15 other counties across that state.
In Alabama, tornado damage was reported in the west Alabama town of Ward in Sumter County. No one was hurt in that storm. Strong storms also caused flash flooding in portions of Birmingham and Jefferson County and knocked a few trees and power lines down in a several areas across Alabama.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
About 11 p.m., emergency managers said a possible tornado damaged several homes, a garage and a few other structures in the Walker County town of Parrish. The severe storm also caused damage to homes in Cordova and Sumiton and snapped several trees and power lines throughout the county.
No injuries were reported from that storm.
A tornado also touched down overnight in the DeKalb County towns of Albertville and Geraldine, injuring several people and causing major damage to several homes and buildings.
In Albertville, emergency managers reported damage to several homes, the BP gas station on Hwy 431 and a mobile home park across from the Albertville Elementary School. The tornado leveled half a dozen homes in the Edmundson neighborhood.
The DeKalb County Emergency Management Agency said the hardest hit area was in Geraldine, where at least 10 people were hurt from the storms. Emergency managers said they are expected to be okay.
DeKalb County Schools Superintendent Charles Warren told WAFF there was some damage around Geraldine School.
The American Red Cross opened a shelter at the Boaz Senior Center for anyone whose homes were damaged or destroyed by the tornado. The Boaz Senior Center is located at 112 Church Street in Boaz.
Severe weather was also to blame for several areas of damage in Cullman County on Saturday afternoon, forcing emergency managers to open shelters there.
The Cullman County Emergency Management Agency said two businesses, including Walker Building Supply, were damaged on Highway 31 in Hanceville Emergency managers said a possible tornado also caused damage in the Welti community on county road 747 between Welti and Baileytown. Cullman County EMA Director Phyllis Little said several structures were damaged by trees and winds, including chicken houses blown across the road at Highway 639. They also reported lots of downed trees and power lines, flooding and power outages.
Cullman Chief of Police, Kenny Culpepper, reported street flooding at Hart Drive and Boltee Road and a downed tree blocking the road on Young Street.
Good Hope Mayor Corey Harbison said there was some wind damage and several flooding issues in town, but did not believe the damage was caused by a tornado.
Shelters opened to the public Saturday included the Cullman County Courthouse in Cullman, Vinemont-Providence Fire Department (Stations 1 and 2,) the city of Hanceville library, Garden City, and town hall at Good Hope.
The storms were part of a larger storm system that caused tornadoes across much of the southeastern United States on Saturday. Tornadoes killed 10 people and caused heavy damage to more than 100 homes in parts of Yazoo City, Miss., and was responsible for damage in 15 other counties across that state.
In Alabama, tornado damage was reported in the west Alabama town of Ward in Sumter County. No one was hurt in that storm. Strong storms also caused flash flooding in portions of Birmingham and Jefferson County and knocked a few trees and power lines down in a several areas across Alabama.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Lightning starts fire at hotel in Irondale
IRONDALE, AL (WBRC) - Lightning started a fire Saturday at a hotel in Irondale.
The fire began shortly after noon Saturday at the Rime Garden Inn and Suites. About 20 units were affected by the fire. Fire officials said most of the damage was caused by smoke.
No one was hurt.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The fire began shortly after noon Saturday at the Rime Garden Inn and Suites. About 20 units were affected by the fire. Fire officials said most of the damage was caused by smoke.
No one was hurt.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Storm damage in Cullman County
CULLMAN, AL (WBRC) - Severe weather was to blame for several areas of damage in Cullman County on Saturday, forcing emergency managers to open shelters.
The Cullman County Emergency Management Agency said two businesses, including Walker Building Supply, were damaged on Highway 31 in Hanceville Emergency managers said a possible tornado also caused damage in the Welti community on county road 747 between Welti and Baileytown. Cullman County EMA Director Phyllis Little said several structures were damaged by trees and winds, including chicken houses blown across the road at Highway 639. They also reported lots of downed trees and power lines, flooding and power outages.
Cullman Chief of Police, Kenny Culpepper, reported street flooding at Hart Drive and Boltee Road and a downed tree blocking the road on Young Street.
Good Hope Mayor Corey Harbison said there was some wind damage and several flooding issues in town, but did not believe the damage was caused by a tornado.
Shelters opened to the public Saturday included the Cullman County Courthouse in Cullman, Vinemont-Providence Fire Department (Stations 1 and 2,) the city of Hanceville library, Garden City, and town hall at Good Hope.
The storms were part of a larger storm system that caused tornadoes across much of the southeastern United States on Saturday. Tornadoes killed 10 people in and caused heavy damage in parts of Yazoo City, Miss., and was responsible for damage in 15 other counties across that state.
In Alabama, tornado damage was reported in the west Alabama town of Ward in Sumter County. No one was hurt in that storm. Strong storms also caused flash flooding in portions of Birmingham and Jefferson County and knocked a few trees and power lines down in a several areas across Alabama.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The Cullman County Emergency Management Agency said two businesses, including Walker Building Supply, were damaged on Highway 31 in Hanceville Emergency managers said a possible tornado also caused damage in the Welti community on county road 747 between Welti and Baileytown. Cullman County EMA Director Phyllis Little said several structures were damaged by trees and winds, including chicken houses blown across the road at Highway 639. They also reported lots of downed trees and power lines, flooding and power outages.
Cullman Chief of Police, Kenny Culpepper, reported street flooding at Hart Drive and Boltee Road and a downed tree blocking the road on Young Street.
Good Hope Mayor Corey Harbison said there was some wind damage and several flooding issues in town, but did not believe the damage was caused by a tornado.
Shelters opened to the public Saturday included the Cullman County Courthouse in Cullman, Vinemont-Providence Fire Department (Stations 1 and 2,) the city of Hanceville library, Garden City, and town hall at Good Hope.
The storms were part of a larger storm system that caused tornadoes across much of the southeastern United States on Saturday. Tornadoes killed 10 people in and caused heavy damage in parts of Yazoo City, Miss., and was responsible for damage in 15 other counties across that state.
In Alabama, tornado damage was reported in the west Alabama town of Ward in Sumter County. No one was hurt in that storm. Strong storms also caused flash flooding in portions of Birmingham and Jefferson County and knocked a few trees and power lines down in a several areas across Alabama.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Saturday race cancelled at Talladega
TALLADEGA SUPERSPEEDWAY, AL (WBRC) - Officials at the Talladega Superspeedway decided Saturday to cancel all events scheduled for Saturday due to the threat of severe weather.
The news came in the following news release sent to FOX6 News:
“In the interest of fan safety, all activities scheduled at Talladega Superspeedway on Saturday have been postponed due to the significant threat of extended periods of severe weather. This decision was made based on advice from the National Weather Service and the Talladega County Emergency Management Agency. Fans are strongly encouraged to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety, especially those guests camping on speedway property.
The Aaron’s 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series race scheduled for Saturday will now be held Sunday following the Aaron’s 499 Sprint Cup Series race. Any ticket for the Aaron’s 312 or Aaron’s 499 will be honored at the gate on Sunday. All Aaron’s 499 ticket holders have priority seating and should proceed to their assigned ticket area. Aaron’s 312 ticket holders will be directed to open seating by speedway staff.
Gates open at 8 a.m. and the Aaron’s 499 will begin at 12 noon as originally scheduled.
Fans who want to witness more than 800 miles of back-to-back, high-speed action at Talladega but who have not yet purchased their tickets can still do so by calling 877-Go2-DEGA or visiting one of our ticket booths on property.”
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The news came in the following news release sent to FOX6 News:
“In the interest of fan safety, all activities scheduled at Talladega Superspeedway on Saturday have been postponed due to the significant threat of extended periods of severe weather. This decision was made based on advice from the National Weather Service and the Talladega County Emergency Management Agency. Fans are strongly encouraged to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety, especially those guests camping on speedway property.
The Aaron’s 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series race scheduled for Saturday will now be held Sunday following the Aaron’s 499 Sprint Cup Series race. Any ticket for the Aaron’s 312 or Aaron’s 499 will be honored at the gate on Sunday. All Aaron’s 499 ticket holders have priority seating and should proceed to their assigned ticket area. Aaron’s 312 ticket holders will be directed to open seating by speedway staff.
Gates open at 8 a.m. and the Aaron’s 499 will begin at 12 noon as originally scheduled.
Fans who want to witness more than 800 miles of back-to-back, high-speed action at Talladega but who have not yet purchased their tickets can still do so by calling 877-Go2-DEGA or visiting one of our ticket booths on property.”
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Severe weather threat forces event changes
By Alan Collins
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The threat of severe weather forced the Magic City Art Connection to cancel it's Saturday event downtown at Linn Park.
The event draws hundreds of people each year, but the threat of bad weather worried vendors.
"Like everybody else pray and do what I can," said Joe McGie. "Like everybody else drop the sides and cover things up."
Many of the artists have expensive items to protect. They realize a severe storm could jeopardize their work.
"4 TO 5 hours to break down, 5 hours to set up and break down on Sunday... I don't think I can do that," said Diana Yum-Bucher.
The city of Birmingham announced Friday it would open Boutwell Auditorium as a temporary storm shelter Saturday if needed. Emergency managers said it was important for anyone going outdoors on Saturday to be aware of the weather conditions.
"People should be monitoring the weather, local news services, pay attention to that," said Horace Walker. "If they have to go out, listen for warning signs."
At the Fed Cup, up to 6,000 people are expected to attend the weekend event at the BJCC. Tennis officials said they plan to keep people inside the BJCC if there is a tornado threat.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The threat of severe weather forced the Magic City Art Connection to cancel it's Saturday event downtown at Linn Park.
The event draws hundreds of people each year, but the threat of bad weather worried vendors.
"Like everybody else pray and do what I can," said Joe McGie. "Like everybody else drop the sides and cover things up."
Many of the artists have expensive items to protect. They realize a severe storm could jeopardize their work.
"4 TO 5 hours to break down, 5 hours to set up and break down on Sunday... I don't think I can do that," said Diana Yum-Bucher.
The city of Birmingham announced Friday it would open Boutwell Auditorium as a temporary storm shelter Saturday if needed. Emergency managers said it was important for anyone going outdoors on Saturday to be aware of the weather conditions.
"People should be monitoring the weather, local news services, pay attention to that," said Horace Walker. "If they have to go out, listen for warning signs."
At the Fed Cup, up to 6,000 people are expected to attend the weekend event at the BJCC. Tennis officials said they plan to keep people inside the BJCC if there is a tornado threat.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
New threat to electronic bingo halls in Bessemer
By Alan Collins
BESSEMER, AL (WBRC) - Electronic bingo halls in the Bessemer cutoff are no longer protected from raids on their businesses.
Jefferson County Circuit Judge Eugene Verin revised his order Friday. The order still bars John Tyson, the commander of the governor's task force on illegal gambling, from raiding any bingo halls in the cutoff, but the order does not apply to the Alabama Bureau of Investigation or State Troopers.
Michael Trucks, the city attorney for Fairfield, said any facility that stays open is doing so at it's own risk.
"That leaves the door open for the ABI to take some sort of action and the department of Public Safety to take some sort of action," said Trucks. "This will potentially will have a drastic impact on the city of Fairfield. It can potentially affect services such as police, fire, sanitation and streets."
Governor Bob Riley, who was in Birmingham on Friday, told FOX6 News a judge cannot stop those agencies from doing their jobs.
"No circuit judge can say you can enforce this law and not this law," Riley said. "We are going to continue to enforce the law. The constitution demands we should."
A spokesman for the bingo operations in the cutoff said Friday they plan to stay open at least until the Alabama Supreme Court rules on electronic bingo.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BESSEMER, AL (WBRC) - Electronic bingo halls in the Bessemer cutoff are no longer protected from raids on their businesses.
Jefferson County Circuit Judge Eugene Verin revised his order Friday. The order still bars John Tyson, the commander of the governor's task force on illegal gambling, from raiding any bingo halls in the cutoff, but the order does not apply to the Alabama Bureau of Investigation or State Troopers.
Michael Trucks, the city attorney for Fairfield, said any facility that stays open is doing so at it's own risk.
"That leaves the door open for the ABI to take some sort of action and the department of Public Safety to take some sort of action," said Trucks. "This will potentially will have a drastic impact on the city of Fairfield. It can potentially affect services such as police, fire, sanitation and streets."
Governor Bob Riley, who was in Birmingham on Friday, told FOX6 News a judge cannot stop those agencies from doing their jobs.
"No circuit judge can say you can enforce this law and not this law," Riley said. "We are going to continue to enforce the law. The constitution demands we should."
A spokesman for the bingo operations in the cutoff said Friday they plan to stay open at least until the Alabama Supreme Court rules on electronic bingo.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Paraplegic killed in Birmingham house fire
By Melanie Posey
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A Birmingham man died in a house fire early Friday morning after his mother tried desperately to save him.
Flames broke out at 1665 Waco Avenue Southwest around 4:40 Friday morning. They started in 30-year old Johnny Wood’s bedroom. Wood was a paraplegic confined to a wheelchair since a car accident in 2000.
"He was a really nice person, a really big people person. He tried to do everything to help everybody," said Sonya Laguna, Wood’s next door neighbor.
Officials say Wood woke to smoke in his room and called his mom who was just a few rooms away. Francis Wood tried to drag her from the home, but the smoke and flames became too much. She ran outside to get help.
"We called 9-1-1 and told them there's a man trapped inside and we need them here and now," Laguna said. "We know for a fact it was about 20 minutes or more before we got there."
Birmingham Fire Battalion Chief C.W. Mardis said the call came in at 4:41 and crews arrived at 4:46. He adds that the three nearest fire stations were already on another house fire at 2001 Pearson Court when the call from Woods’ home came in.
"You can't take firefighters off one scene to go to another scene," Mardis explained. "That would be abandonment."
Instead, the department's policy is to pull from the next nearest station, which in this case, was located near Legion Field. Mardis said dispatch records show that crew arriving on the scene just five minutes later.
"A five-minute response time in a situation like that seems like a lifetime, and obviously, in this situation, it was a lifetime," Mardis said. "But our guys did respond promptly and mitigate the scene as they should have."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A Birmingham man died in a house fire early Friday morning after his mother tried desperately to save him.
Flames broke out at 1665 Waco Avenue Southwest around 4:40 Friday morning. They started in 30-year old Johnny Wood’s bedroom. Wood was a paraplegic confined to a wheelchair since a car accident in 2000.
"He was a really nice person, a really big people person. He tried to do everything to help everybody," said Sonya Laguna, Wood’s next door neighbor.
Officials say Wood woke to smoke in his room and called his mom who was just a few rooms away. Francis Wood tried to drag her from the home, but the smoke and flames became too much. She ran outside to get help.
"We called 9-1-1 and told them there's a man trapped inside and we need them here and now," Laguna said. "We know for a fact it was about 20 minutes or more before we got there."
Birmingham Fire Battalion Chief C.W. Mardis said the call came in at 4:41 and crews arrived at 4:46. He adds that the three nearest fire stations were already on another house fire at 2001 Pearson Court when the call from Woods’ home came in.
"You can't take firefighters off one scene to go to another scene," Mardis explained. "That would be abandonment."
Instead, the department's policy is to pull from the next nearest station, which in this case, was located near Legion Field. Mardis said dispatch records show that crew arriving on the scene just five minutes later.
"A five-minute response time in a situation like that seems like a lifetime, and obviously, in this situation, it was a lifetime," Mardis said. "But our guys did respond promptly and mitigate the scene as they should have."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Local economies ready for tennis and races
By Emily Luxen
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - It's a busy sports weekend in the Birmingham area, and the events are expected to bring thousands of fans and big money to the local economy.
Officials at the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau said the NASCAR race at Talladega Superspeedway, and the Fed Cup Tennis
Tournament at the BJCC will bring more than $25 million to the local economy. This news comes despite lower than expected ticket sales.
NASCAR fans came from places like Mississippi, Indiana and Maryland, and even Canada to enjoy the big race. Officials at the Talladega Superspeedway say that is part of the reason this event is so unique. It brings such a boost to the local economy.
"Normally we sell tickets in 50 states and half a dozen foreign countries," said the chairman of Talladega Superspeedway, Grant Lynch. "About 74% of people come from out of state. The economic impact of our event is huge on the fact we have these people and they stay so long."
NASCAR fans that are not camping out, will fill area hotels and eat in local restaurants just like tennis fans in Birmingham for the Fed Cup. Officials at the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau said both events not only bring money to the local economy, but priceless exposure.
"Every time we get an opportunity to showcase Birmingham in a world setting, it is great for the city," said Michael Gunn, "It gives us an opportunity to bring people here that would never come to the city before, and opens doors for more opportunities and more sporting events."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - It's a busy sports weekend in the Birmingham area, and the events are expected to bring thousands of fans and big money to the local economy.
Officials at the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau said the NASCAR race at Talladega Superspeedway, and the Fed Cup Tennis
Tournament at the BJCC will bring more than $25 million to the local economy. This news comes despite lower than expected ticket sales.
NASCAR fans came from places like Mississippi, Indiana and Maryland, and even Canada to enjoy the big race. Officials at the Talladega Superspeedway say that is part of the reason this event is so unique. It brings such a boost to the local economy.
"Normally we sell tickets in 50 states and half a dozen foreign countries," said the chairman of Talladega Superspeedway, Grant Lynch. "About 74% of people come from out of state. The economic impact of our event is huge on the fact we have these people and they stay so long."
NASCAR fans that are not camping out, will fill area hotels and eat in local restaurants just like tennis fans in Birmingham for the Fed Cup. Officials at the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau said both events not only bring money to the local economy, but priceless exposure.
"Every time we get an opportunity to showcase Birmingham in a world setting, it is great for the city," said Michael Gunn, "It gives us an opportunity to bring people here that would never come to the city before, and opens doors for more opportunities and more sporting events."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
High school student dies in crash
GARDENDALE, AL (WBRC) - A student from Mortimer Jordan High School was killed Friday morning in a car crash.
Authorities said Richard Johnson, 17, died during a collision with another vehicle on U.S. Highway 31 in Gardendale around 7 a.m. Friday.
Johnson, a student at Mortimer Jordan High School, died at the scene. The 28-year-old driver of the other vehicle was taken to the hospital for treatment.
The cause of the crash was not known.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Authorities said Richard Johnson, 17, died during a collision with another vehicle on U.S. Highway 31 in Gardendale around 7 a.m. Friday.
Johnson, a student at Mortimer Jordan High School, died at the scene. The 28-year-old driver of the other vehicle was taken to the hospital for treatment.
The cause of the crash was not known.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Copper theft suspects arrested
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Two men were arrested in connection with a copper theft in Pinson that ended in a police chase in Ensley.
The Jefferson County Sheriff's Department, in a statement Friday to FOX6 News, said Justin Hall, 22, of Pinson, and Randall Goodman, 34, of Pinson, had been arrested on the following charges:
- Justin Hall: Burglary, Criminal Mischief, Disorderly conduct and Resisting Arrest
- Randall Goodman: Burglary, Criminal Mischief, No Insurance, Failure to Yield, Running a Red Light, Improper Lane Change, Reckless Driving, Reckless Endangerment and Possession of a Controlled Substance
Authorities said shortly after noon on Thursday, an off-duty deputy spotted three burglary suspects inside a blue Ford Ranger on Hwy. 31 at Tarrant Road in Gardendale. The men were suspects in a burglary that occurred April 20th in the Pinson area and had a large air conditioner in the back of their truck. The driver saw the deputy and quickly took off towards north Birmingham. The deputy followed and requested backup.
During the pursuit, deputies said the air conditioner fell out of the truck on Avenue W. The pursuit ended at 18th Street in Ensley, where two of the three men were apprehended by deputies and Birmingham Police. The third suspect fled the area and had not been located as of Friday afternoon.
Investigators said they believe the men stole the air conditioner with intentions to sell the copper inside it. They also believe the men were involved in similar thefts in other jurisdictions.
Hall was being held in the Jefferson County Jail on $34,000 bond. Goodman was being held in the Jefferson County Jail on $54,500 bond.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The Jefferson County Sheriff's Department, in a statement Friday to FOX6 News, said Justin Hall, 22, of Pinson, and Randall Goodman, 34, of Pinson, had been arrested on the following charges:
- Justin Hall: Burglary, Criminal Mischief, Disorderly conduct and Resisting Arrest
- Randall Goodman: Burglary, Criminal Mischief, No Insurance, Failure to Yield, Running a Red Light, Improper Lane Change, Reckless Driving, Reckless Endangerment and Possession of a Controlled Substance
Authorities said shortly after noon on Thursday, an off-duty deputy spotted three burglary suspects inside a blue Ford Ranger on Hwy. 31 at Tarrant Road in Gardendale. The men were suspects in a burglary that occurred April 20th in the Pinson area and had a large air conditioner in the back of their truck. The driver saw the deputy and quickly took off towards north Birmingham. The deputy followed and requested backup.
During the pursuit, deputies said the air conditioner fell out of the truck on Avenue W. The pursuit ended at 18th Street in Ensley, where two of the three men were apprehended by deputies and Birmingham Police. The third suspect fled the area and had not been located as of Friday afternoon.
Investigators said they believe the men stole the air conditioner with intentions to sell the copper inside it. They also believe the men were involved in similar thefts in other jurisdictions.
Hall was being held in the Jefferson County Jail on $34,000 bond. Goodman was being held in the Jefferson County Jail on $54,500 bond.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
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