By Sherea Harris
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - All of the rain is causing a problem that creeps out many people...snakes.
Recent rainfall has flooded snakes from of their hiding places which leads to increased encounters with us.
They are out trying to find somewhere cooler, like your basement, garage, or your garden bed.
Micah Willis, a wildlife technician with Critter Control, says snakes have been keeping him busy for the past month. He goes out to neighborhoods seven to eight times a week to catch snakes.
Willis says snakes are actually good to have outside your home because they eat rodents. Yet, folks are still warned not to get close to one.
"Any snake you should assume that it's a dangerous snake, stay away from it, said Willis. "Most aren't going to be dangerous. Most are rat snakes and black racers, most of those are the bigger ones. Folks get scared of those because they are big."
Willis says he's catching a lot of rat snakes, adding that there is a problem with copper heads in Mountain Brook.
Here's something to keep in mind, snakes can easily hide in the weeds, wood piles and tall grass. So the best thing to do to keep snakes away is to keep your yard neat and maintained.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Holiday travel expected to increase for Independence Day
By Emily Luxen
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - More Alabamians are expected to travel this 4th of July weekend, and AAA says many of them are headed to the Gulf Coast.
AAA Alabama reports a 17.1% increase in holiday travelers from 2009, and that includes an increase locally.
AAA Alabama spokesman, Clay Ingram, said last year the struggling economy kept a lot of people at home. So this year, its not surprising people are anxious to travel.
"We've seen a few cancellations, but honestly, not very many," said Ingram, "I think that is the indicator of all the different things there are to do at the beach, from nightlife to restaurants to golf, shopping, and water parks."
Many travelers said it was important for them to keep their plans.
"We go to the Gulf every 4th of July," said Millie Bond, "We have been calling about the oil, but we don't think it will hurt our plans."
Orange Beach's mayor said he is optimistic about the holiday weekend, and that he appreciates the support of all the travelers.
"We absolutely feel like it will be a good weekend," said Mayor Tony Kennon, "We've got fireworks everywhere. We got the Montgomery Gentry concert at the wharf. I think it will be a good weekend, I really do."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - More Alabamians are expected to travel this 4th of July weekend, and AAA says many of them are headed to the Gulf Coast.
AAA Alabama reports a 17.1% increase in holiday travelers from 2009, and that includes an increase locally.
AAA Alabama spokesman, Clay Ingram, said last year the struggling economy kept a lot of people at home. So this year, its not surprising people are anxious to travel.
"We've seen a few cancellations, but honestly, not very many," said Ingram, "I think that is the indicator of all the different things there are to do at the beach, from nightlife to restaurants to golf, shopping, and water parks."
Many travelers said it was important for them to keep their plans.
"We go to the Gulf every 4th of July," said Millie Bond, "We have been calling about the oil, but we don't think it will hurt our plans."
Orange Beach's mayor said he is optimistic about the holiday weekend, and that he appreciates the support of all the travelers.
"We absolutely feel like it will be a good weekend," said Mayor Tony Kennon, "We've got fireworks everywhere. We got the Montgomery Gentry concert at the wharf. I think it will be a good weekend, I really do."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham nightclub ordered to close by judge
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – A Jefferson County judge has ordered a Birmingham nightclub to close after a yearlong battle between the owners, nearby residents and city leaders.
City officials have tried to close Club Zen on Morris Avenue since it was the scene of a deadly stabbing in September 2009.
Judge Houston Brown has now declared the club "a public nuisance."
The lawyer representing Club Zen says the owner will file an appeal.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
City officials have tried to close Club Zen on Morris Avenue since it was the scene of a deadly stabbing in September 2009.
Judge Houston Brown has now declared the club "a public nuisance."
The lawyer representing Club Zen says the owner will file an appeal.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Suspect being questioned in hit-and-run case
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham police say they are questioning a suspect in a deadly hit and run.
31-year-old Anita Pickett was on her way to work Sunday morning when another driver struck her SUV on I-59 near the BJCC.
Pickett's vehicle crashed almost 40 feet to the ground below and the other driver just kept going.
Investigators say they have taken a woman into custody, but are not yet revealing her identity.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
31-year-old Anita Pickett was on her way to work Sunday morning when another driver struck her SUV on I-59 near the BJCC.
Pickett's vehicle crashed almost 40 feet to the ground below and the other driver just kept going.
Investigators say they have taken a woman into custody, but are not yet revealing her identity.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Leeds drivers get 94-cent gas during promotion
LEEDS, AL (WBRC) - Drivers were lining up in Leeds to take advantage of a serious deal on gas.
Windstream on Ashville Road rolled back their prices to 94 cents a gallon for regular. It is a promotion for their TV, internet and phone service.
Drivers were able to buy up to ten gallons for that price.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Windstream on Ashville Road rolled back their prices to 94 cents a gallon for regular. It is a promotion for their TV, internet and phone service.
Drivers were able to buy up to ten gallons for that price.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jeffco Environmental Services Director subpoenaed by U.S. attorney
JEFFERSON COUNTY, AL (WBRC) – The man in charge of the Jefferson County Environmental Services Department has now been subpoenaed by the U.S. Attorney’s office.
David Denard, the director of the ESD of Jefferson County, received the subpoena by the U.S. attorney’s office on Wednesday morning.
The subpoena seeks information on overflows in Jefferson County.
Overflows are when the sewer system backs up and sewage is able to leak out of the system. They have become a regular problem in Jefferson County, despite the amount of work that has been put in to fix them.
Special agents with the EPA seized computer equipment from the Shades Creek facility off Lakeshore Parkway. The facility is a pre-treatment and line maintenance shop that would deal with overflows.
Jefferson County Commissioner Jim Carns say the new subpoena is devastating. Carns adds that he knows little about the situation, but plans to fully cooperate.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
David Denard, the director of the ESD of Jefferson County, received the subpoena by the U.S. attorney’s office on Wednesday morning.
The subpoena seeks information on overflows in Jefferson County.
Overflows are when the sewer system backs up and sewage is able to leak out of the system. They have become a regular problem in Jefferson County, despite the amount of work that has been put in to fix them.
Special agents with the EPA seized computer equipment from the Shades Creek facility off Lakeshore Parkway. The facility is a pre-treatment and line maintenance shop that would deal with overflows.
Jefferson County Commissioner Jim Carns say the new subpoena is devastating. Carns adds that he knows little about the situation, but plans to fully cooperate.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Four arrested in connection to December murder
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – The Birmingham Police Department says they have made four arrests in connection to a December ’09 murder.
21-year-old Kourtney Collins, 19-year-old Joshua Deloach, 25-year-old Derrick Young and 21-year-old Michael Johnson have all been charged with the murder of 21-year-old Kortney Nichols.
Nichols was found suffering from gunshot wound in front of the Aspen Run apartment complex on December 23, 2009. He later died at UAB Hospital.
“The investigators in this case showed true dedication to their job, the victim and his family while continuing to search for justice when all leads appeared exhausted,” said Birmingham Police Chief A.C. Roper. “Although there is much more work involved in this investigation, I commend the detectives and Crime Reduction Team for their tireless efforts in apprehending these suspects.”
The suspects are in the custody of the Jefferson County Jail.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
21-year-old Kourtney Collins, 19-year-old Joshua Deloach, 25-year-old Derrick Young and 21-year-old Michael Johnson have all been charged with the murder of 21-year-old Kortney Nichols.
Nichols was found suffering from gunshot wound in front of the Aspen Run apartment complex on December 23, 2009. He later died at UAB Hospital.
“The investigators in this case showed true dedication to their job, the victim and his family while continuing to search for justice when all leads appeared exhausted,” said Birmingham Police Chief A.C. Roper. “Although there is much more work involved in this investigation, I commend the detectives and Crime Reduction Team for their tireless efforts in apprehending these suspects.”
The suspects are in the custody of the Jefferson County Jail.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Hoover police investigate overnight murder
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) - Hoover police are investigating a night time murder. It happened at the Park at Galleria Apartments around 11:30, last night.
Police were called to the Park at Galleria apartments where they found a man shot in the parking lot.
There is no word on any suspects, this morning.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Police were called to the Park at Galleria apartments where they found a man shot in the parking lot.
There is no word on any suspects, this morning.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Mayor Bell answers questions on budget problems
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – Birmingham Mayor William Bell answered more questions about the city's budget problems during a town hall meeting hosted by the Southern Regional Business Council and the Committee to Develop Birmingham.
The mayor talked about his plan to balance the budget. He says city leaders have no choice but to make major cuts.
The Birmingham City Council has a specially called meeting set for Thursday morning at 8:30 a.m.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The mayor talked about his plan to balance the budget. He says city leaders have no choice but to make major cuts.
The Birmingham City Council has a specially called meeting set for Thursday morning at 8:30 a.m.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham City Council votes to close down club
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham city councilors voted Tuesday to close a controversial club.
Club Continental or the Continental Ballroom will no longer be able to operate. Councilors voted unanimously to revoke the club's business license because of numerous complaints of violence reported to both Birmingham and Homewood police.
One Homewood Sergeant described the club as a "death trap."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Club Continental or the Continental Ballroom will no longer be able to operate. Councilors voted unanimously to revoke the club's business license because of numerous complaints of violence reported to both Birmingham and Homewood police.
One Homewood Sergeant described the club as a "death trap."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Firefighters and their families protesting at Birmingham City Hall
By Ashley Nix
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - More than 100 Birmingham firefighters are protesting Tuesday morning outside of Birmingham City Hall.
The protest includes firefighters, wives and children.
The firefighters face up to a 30% pay cut under the city's proposed 2011 budget.
We will have more information on this story on FOX6 News at 5.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - More than 100 Birmingham firefighters are protesting Tuesday morning outside of Birmingham City Hall.
The protest includes firefighters, wives and children.
The firefighters face up to a 30% pay cut under the city's proposed 2011 budget.
We will have more information on this story on FOX6 News at 5.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Greenetrack raided by illegal gambling task force
GREENE COUNTY, AL (WBRC) – Governor Riley’s task force on illegal gambling has begun a raid upon Greenetrack in Greene County.
The raid began on Tuesday morning with a number of representatives from the Department of Public Safety and the Alcohol Beverage Control Board.
According to the governor’s office, the task force took control of all the machines in the facility to inspect and inventory them. The machines are expected to be moved to a different facility eventually.
On Monday, the Alabama Supreme Court vacated the orders of Circuit Court Judge Eddie Hardaway, Jr. Hardaway had entered an order on June 18th to prevent task force representatives from carry out inspections on the Greenetrack machines.
“Today’s actions are being undertaken by the Task Force in pursuit of the forfeiture proceedings begun by the Greene County District Attorney and the orders of the Governor,” said Task Force Commander John Tyson, Jr. “Whenever a forfeiture action is initiated, the State has to have control over the machines at issue. All we did today was to complete what the local District Attorney and former Sheriff started in early June.”
Tyson was not on scene during the Tuesday morning raid. The raid was led by the Director of Public Safety, Col. Christopher J. Murphy.
“The Task Force actions taken this morning involved 10 uniformed state troopers,” said Col. Murphy. “All of our actions are consistent with Judge Hardaway’s order and those of the Alabama Supreme Court.”
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The raid began on Tuesday morning with a number of representatives from the Department of Public Safety and the Alcohol Beverage Control Board.
According to the governor’s office, the task force took control of all the machines in the facility to inspect and inventory them. The machines are expected to be moved to a different facility eventually.
On Monday, the Alabama Supreme Court vacated the orders of Circuit Court Judge Eddie Hardaway, Jr. Hardaway had entered an order on June 18th to prevent task force representatives from carry out inspections on the Greenetrack machines.
“Today’s actions are being undertaken by the Task Force in pursuit of the forfeiture proceedings begun by the Greene County District Attorney and the orders of the Governor,” said Task Force Commander John Tyson, Jr. “Whenever a forfeiture action is initiated, the State has to have control over the machines at issue. All we did today was to complete what the local District Attorney and former Sheriff started in early June.”
Tyson was not on scene during the Tuesday morning raid. The raid was led by the Director of Public Safety, Col. Christopher J. Murphy.
“The Task Force actions taken this morning involved 10 uniformed state troopers,” said Col. Murphy. “All of our actions are consistent with Judge Hardaway’s order and those of the Alabama Supreme Court.”
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Siegelman/Scrushy case to be reviewed by order of Supreme Court
WASHINGTON (AP) - The Supreme Court has ordered a new review of the convictions in the government corruption case against former Alabama Gov. Don Siegelman and ex-HealthSouth CEO Richard Scrushy.
The court Tuesday ordered a federal appeals court to review their appeals in light of a ruling that went against what is known as the "honest services fraud" law.
Last week the justices found fault with the anti-fraud law in the case of former Enron chief Jeffrey Skilling, and defense attorneys for Siegelman and Scrushy had hoped that ruling would give them a new chance to challenge their convictions.
The former Alabama governor and ousted head of HealthSouth were convicted in 2006 on fraud and other charges.
(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
The court Tuesday ordered a federal appeals court to review their appeals in light of a ruling that went against what is known as the "honest services fraud" law.
Last week the justices found fault with the anti-fraud law in the case of former Enron chief Jeffrey Skilling, and defense attorneys for Siegelman and Scrushy had hoped that ruling would give them a new chance to challenge their convictions.
The former Alabama governor and ousted head of HealthSouth were convicted in 2006 on fraud and other charges.
(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
Donation to fireworks show could make fireworks in City Hall
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The Fourth of July fireworks could start a few days early this year.
On Tuesday, the Birmingham City Council could vote whether or not to give $10,000 to the Thunder on the Mountain fireworks show.
The issue is whether a city, that may possibly have to lay off workers, can afford to contribute to a fireworks show.
City councilors discussed the matter at a committee meeting Monday.
Officials with Vulcan Park say it has been hard to get sponsors for this year's show and they would appreciate the city's support.
Some city councilors say spending that amount of money while cutting employee's pay may send the wrong message.
“All of us have to make sure we are responsible,” says council member LaShunda Scales. “When we talk to citizens, they know if you can't afford your employees. That is 10,000 that you could have paid them as opposed to fireworks.”
“The city gets back in tax revenue what they might invest in the show this year,” says Vulcan Park Museum CEO and President Darlene Negrotto. “So we are hopeful they will consider that.”
The Thunder on the Mountain show is scheduled for 9:00 p.m. on July 4th.
Fireworks will explode in the sky over Vulcan.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
On Tuesday, the Birmingham City Council could vote whether or not to give $10,000 to the Thunder on the Mountain fireworks show.
The issue is whether a city, that may possibly have to lay off workers, can afford to contribute to a fireworks show.
City councilors discussed the matter at a committee meeting Monday.
Officials with Vulcan Park say it has been hard to get sponsors for this year's show and they would appreciate the city's support.
Some city councilors say spending that amount of money while cutting employee's pay may send the wrong message.
“All of us have to make sure we are responsible,” says council member LaShunda Scales. “When we talk to citizens, they know if you can't afford your employees. That is 10,000 that you could have paid them as opposed to fireworks.”
“The city gets back in tax revenue what they might invest in the show this year,” says Vulcan Park Museum CEO and President Darlene Negrotto. “So we are hopeful they will consider that.”
The Thunder on the Mountain show is scheduled for 9:00 p.m. on July 4th.
Fireworks will explode in the sky over Vulcan.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Mayor Bell inviting citizens to weigh in on budget
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham Mayor William Bell will address his 2011 budget proposal on Tuesday evening and you are invited to weigh in on it.
Council members have to pass a budget by Thursday, July 1st.
As part of a proposal worked out over the weekend, Birmingham city workers could lose as many as seven of eleven paid holidays this year under a proposal presented today as a way to help plug a $16 million shortfall in the proposed 2011 budget.
The fire department faces deep cuts, including a 20% cut in pay. The mayor says a federal case requires fire and police pay to be comparable.
To balance the budget, several non-profit organizations may see a cut in funding.
The budget town hall meeting happens at 6:00 at Parkway Christian Church. Mayor Bell will go over his proposal and take questions from the audience.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Council members have to pass a budget by Thursday, July 1st.
As part of a proposal worked out over the weekend, Birmingham city workers could lose as many as seven of eleven paid holidays this year under a proposal presented today as a way to help plug a $16 million shortfall in the proposed 2011 budget.
The fire department faces deep cuts, including a 20% cut in pay. The mayor says a federal case requires fire and police pay to be comparable.
To balance the budget, several non-profit organizations may see a cut in funding.
The budget town hall meeting happens at 6:00 at Parkway Christian Church. Mayor Bell will go over his proposal and take questions from the audience.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Daughter of former UA coach Joe Kines dies in Tuscaloosa car crash
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - The daughter of former Alabama defensive coordinator Joe Kines died in a head on collision in Tuscaloosa Monday.
The accident happened between 11:30 a.m. and noon on Northridge Road in Tuscaloosa. Susan Kines-Langston was driving. Her sons, ages 7 and 14, were riding with her and were airlifted to Children's Hospital in Birmingham. Conditions of the children are not known.
The University of Alabama released the following statement regarding the crash:
"The University of Alabama extends our deepest sympathy to Coach Kines and his family. Coach Kines has certainly meant a lot to Alabama athletics over the years, and we will continue to keep him and his family in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All Rights Reserved.
The accident happened between 11:30 a.m. and noon on Northridge Road in Tuscaloosa. Susan Kines-Langston was driving. Her sons, ages 7 and 14, were riding with her and were airlifted to Children's Hospital in Birmingham. Conditions of the children are not known.
The University of Alabama released the following statement regarding the crash:
"The University of Alabama extends our deepest sympathy to Coach Kines and his family. Coach Kines has certainly meant a lot to Alabama athletics over the years, and we will continue to keep him and his family in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All Rights Reserved.
Reports says Northern Beltline ready to go
JEFFERSON COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - After decades of talking about a northern beltline for Jefferson County, backers say it is ready to get off the ground.
The fifty-three mile interstate will complete Interstate 459. It will start in Bessemer, cut through the northern part of the county around Gardendale and go through clay to the St. Clair County line.
On Monday, the economic impact of the three billion dollar project was released to area business leaders. The project is expected to take 21 years but could create some 70,000 jobs just for the construction period. The economic impact for the area could be more than seven billion dollars.
"This is a big project. This is a huge dream for a lot of people, but it could be reality, says Senator Richard Shelby. “We are the only major city, major metropolitan city that has half of a beltline around it. We got to finish."
I-22, as it will be called, is expected to be funded 80% out of federal funds and 20% from the state of Alabama.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The fifty-three mile interstate will complete Interstate 459. It will start in Bessemer, cut through the northern part of the county around Gardendale and go through clay to the St. Clair County line.
On Monday, the economic impact of the three billion dollar project was released to area business leaders. The project is expected to take 21 years but could create some 70,000 jobs just for the construction period. The economic impact for the area could be more than seven billion dollars.
"This is a big project. This is a huge dream for a lot of people, but it could be reality, says Senator Richard Shelby. “We are the only major city, major metropolitan city that has half of a beltline around it. We got to finish."
I-22, as it will be called, is expected to be funded 80% out of federal funds and 20% from the state of Alabama.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Rescued diver passes at hospital
PELHAM, AL (WBRC) - A diver injured during exercises at a lake called Pelham Keys has died.
The lake is known for diving and scuba certification.
Fire investigators say the middle age diver was missing in the water for about 20 minutes before he was rescued Saturday. He was rushed to the hospital, where he later died.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The lake is known for diving and scuba certification.
Fire investigators say the middle age diver was missing in the water for about 20 minutes before he was rescued Saturday. He was rushed to the hospital, where he later died.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Mountain Brook City Council looking into new development
MOUNTAIN BROOK, AL (WBRC) - Mountain Brook City council takes up a controversial development project on Monday.
"Lane Parke" would replace Mountain Brook Shopping Center and Lane Park Apartments. The new Lane Parke development would include retail and office space, a parking deck and hotel.
The zoning is on Monday's agenda. There is no word if council members will vote on the issue.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
"Lane Parke" would replace Mountain Brook Shopping Center and Lane Park Apartments. The new Lane Parke development would include retail and office space, a parking deck and hotel.
The zoning is on Monday's agenda. There is no word if council members will vote on the issue.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Who will lead the investigation into Greenetrack?
GREENE COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - Who will lead the investigation into Greenetrack?
On Monday morning, a judge heard arguments from John Tyson, Jr., the head of the governor’s task force on illegal gambling, and Greg Griggers, the district attorney for Greene County.
Earlier this month, Griggers filed a court motion that allowed him to seize three machines from Greenetrack and leave the others in place and operational.
The judge initially told attorneys Tyson could be co-counsel on the case but he did not issue a direct ruling. It is unclear when he will.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
On Monday morning, a judge heard arguments from John Tyson, Jr., the head of the governor’s task force on illegal gambling, and Greg Griggers, the district attorney for Greene County.
Earlier this month, Griggers filed a court motion that allowed him to seize three machines from Greenetrack and leave the others in place and operational.
The judge initially told attorneys Tyson could be co-counsel on the case but he did not issue a direct ruling. It is unclear when he will.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Water main break causes trouble on John Hawkins Parkway
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) – Captain Jim Coker with the Hoover Police Department says a water main has caused the partial closing of John Hawkins Parkway.
The water main broke near the Paradise Lake Bridge. According to Coker, the two eastbound lanes and the center turn lane have been closed.
Repairs on the break could last more than a day.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The water main broke near the Paradise Lake Bridge. According to Coker, the two eastbound lanes and the center turn lane have been closed.
Repairs on the break could last more than a day.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Hit-and-run sends car on 40-foot deadly drop
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A deadly accident on I-20/59 near the BJCC was also a hit-and-run on Sunday morning.
Birmingham police say a car was knocked off the interstate falling some 40-feet. The driver was killed. It happened around 6:30 a.m.
Witnesses tell police the other driver never stopped.
Police say a witness tried to chase the other driver but then stopped to help the victim. “Basically witnesses are saying the car ran up too fast, fishtailing and hit the car,” says Sergeant Frank Majors with the Birmingham Police Department. “The suspect vehicle continued to go.”
The witnesses did get a description on the other driver and car. They are looking for a young, black woman in her twenties. She was driving a ’08 or ‘09 black Chevy Trailblazer with heavy front end damage and a ‘God Bless America’ tag on the back.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham police say a car was knocked off the interstate falling some 40-feet. The driver was killed. It happened around 6:30 a.m.
Witnesses tell police the other driver never stopped.
Police say a witness tried to chase the other driver but then stopped to help the victim. “Basically witnesses are saying the car ran up too fast, fishtailing and hit the car,” says Sergeant Frank Majors with the Birmingham Police Department. “The suspect vehicle continued to go.”
The witnesses did get a description on the other driver and car. They are looking for a young, black woman in her twenties. She was driving a ’08 or ‘09 black Chevy Trailblazer with heavy front end damage and a ‘God Bless America’ tag on the back.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Churches take Sunday to pray for the gulf
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Churches all over our area and in Louisiana and Mississippi used this past Sunday as a day to pray over the disaster in the gulf.
At More Than Conquerors Faith Church, Pastor Steven Green dedicated a section of his sermon to pray for the Gulf Coast oil spill and all of Alabama.
"We're just asking God for wisdom. When Solomon got ready to build his house, he said God give us wisdom,” says Green. “We don't know how God is going to intervene, whether it's a supernatural wave to clean up the oil or if he'll just give us the next step on what to do."
Though Governor Bob Riley dedicated Sunday as the special day for prayer, churches are calling for constant prayer for the Gulf Coast.
The prayers are said to be needed. Doctors and psychiatrists along the Gulf Coast say they are starting to see the same symptoms from people as they saw after Hurricane Katrina. Symptoms include increases in anxiety levels, drinking, depression and suicidal thoughts.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
At More Than Conquerors Faith Church, Pastor Steven Green dedicated a section of his sermon to pray for the Gulf Coast oil spill and all of Alabama.
"We're just asking God for wisdom. When Solomon got ready to build his house, he said God give us wisdom,” says Green. “We don't know how God is going to intervene, whether it's a supernatural wave to clean up the oil or if he'll just give us the next step on what to do."
Though Governor Bob Riley dedicated Sunday as the special day for prayer, churches are calling for constant prayer for the Gulf Coast.
The prayers are said to be needed. Doctors and psychiatrists along the Gulf Coast say they are starting to see the same symptoms from people as they saw after Hurricane Katrina. Symptoms include increases in anxiety levels, drinking, depression and suicidal thoughts.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Elmore County sheriff's deputy severely injured in assault
PRATTVILLE, AL (WBRC) - An Elmore County sheriff's deputy is in the intensive care unit after he was assaulted outside of a Prattville club.
Family members of Deputy Chris Kearley say he had to undergo extensive brain surgery after being attacked.
The sheriff's department is expected to release more information about the assault and the investigation later today.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Family members of Deputy Chris Kearley say he had to undergo extensive brain surgery after being attacked.
The sheriff's department is expected to release more information about the assault and the investigation later today.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Father and son rescued from Black Warrior River
JEFFERSON COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - A father and son have been safely pulled from the Black Warrior River.
Authorities tell FOX6 News, the two may have lost track of time while they were out on the water Sunday. When it became dark, they pulled off to the river banks.
They were found on the river near Mt. Olive Road in Jefferson County.
Both are said to be in good condition, but father and son were a little dehydrated.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Authorities tell FOX6 News, the two may have lost track of time while they were out on the water Sunday. When it became dark, they pulled off to the river banks.
They were found on the river near Mt. Olive Road in Jefferson County.
Both are said to be in good condition, but father and son were a little dehydrated.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Northern Beltline study to be released, landowners concerned
By Arielle Clay
TRUSSVILLE, AL (WBRC) - A study on the 53 mile stretch of interstate dubbed the Northern Beltline is set to be released Monday.
The project is expected to be cost over $1 billion.
Supporters of the Beltline say it will have a major economic impact but those against it say that impact comes at the sake of others.
“It's very hard and it keeps you awake at night,” Michelle McDonald said.
For years now, McDonald has been restless. She is worried that her family’s land in Trussville is in danger. She says her land is prime real estate for the Northern Beltline.
“It's been in my family for three generations and I should have the option for my family for my kids to get married here for my grandkids to come here,” McDonald said.
The interstate would be built north of Birmingham. Supporters including Sen. Richard Shelby and Congressman Spencer Bachus say it would finish a loop around the city already started with I-459 and I-59. Bachus and Shelby say the Beltline will bring in billions with the construction, development and new business.
“Creating jobs and really transforming the region. It will add new jobs, higher paying jobs for those who have jobs,” Bachus said.
But McDonald and her Beltline opposition group, SOURCE, say providing that growth to some means taking from others.
“You're not growing. You’re just relocating things from one city to another. That's not growth. One city becomes desolate because you moved it thirty miles down the road,” McDonald said.
McDonald says her biggest concern, though, is that the Beltline project is unnecessary and that the planned route for the interstate is inefficient.
“The Metropolitan Planning Organization and all the documentation says it's not a priority project,”
According to a 2009 study of long range projects done by the Birmingham Metropolitan Planning Organization the Northern Beltline is considered middle priority.
“I can't imagine why it's not the highest priority. It would be the biggest road construction in the history of Jefferson County,” Bacchus said.
A project that for some will be a new path of opportunity and for others could be the end of the road.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
TRUSSVILLE, AL (WBRC) - A study on the 53 mile stretch of interstate dubbed the Northern Beltline is set to be released Monday.
The project is expected to be cost over $1 billion.
Supporters of the Beltline say it will have a major economic impact but those against it say that impact comes at the sake of others.
“It's very hard and it keeps you awake at night,” Michelle McDonald said.
For years now, McDonald has been restless. She is worried that her family’s land in Trussville is in danger. She says her land is prime real estate for the Northern Beltline.
“It's been in my family for three generations and I should have the option for my family for my kids to get married here for my grandkids to come here,” McDonald said.
The interstate would be built north of Birmingham. Supporters including Sen. Richard Shelby and Congressman Spencer Bachus say it would finish a loop around the city already started with I-459 and I-59. Bachus and Shelby say the Beltline will bring in billions with the construction, development and new business.
“Creating jobs and really transforming the region. It will add new jobs, higher paying jobs for those who have jobs,” Bachus said.
But McDonald and her Beltline opposition group, SOURCE, say providing that growth to some means taking from others.
“You're not growing. You’re just relocating things from one city to another. That's not growth. One city becomes desolate because you moved it thirty miles down the road,” McDonald said.
McDonald says her biggest concern, though, is that the Beltline project is unnecessary and that the planned route for the interstate is inefficient.
“The Metropolitan Planning Organization and all the documentation says it's not a priority project,”
According to a 2009 study of long range projects done by the Birmingham Metropolitan Planning Organization the Northern Beltline is considered middle priority.
“I can't imagine why it's not the highest priority. It would be the biggest road construction in the history of Jefferson County,” Bacchus said.
A project that for some will be a new path of opportunity and for others could be the end of the road.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Shelby County Commission to listen to 280 traffic solutions
SHELBY COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - The Shelby County Commission is set to hear both sides of the Highway 280 argument.
The State Department of Transportation is pushing an $800-million elevated highway and toll road solution to the 280 traffic congestion. Business owners and residents are worried about the economic and visual impact of the elevated lanes.
The Shelby County Commission will hear from both ALDOT and an opposition group, Rethink 280. The meeting is scheduled for 5:00 on Monday evening.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The State Department of Transportation is pushing an $800-million elevated highway and toll road solution to the 280 traffic congestion. Business owners and residents are worried about the economic and visual impact of the elevated lanes.
The Shelby County Commission will hear from both ALDOT and an opposition group, Rethink 280. The meeting is scheduled for 5:00 on Monday evening.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Man receives severe burns after jumping power station fence
TALLADEGA, AL (WBRC) - A Talladega man suffers burns to more than 90% of his body.
Police say he tried to jump the fence at an Alabama Power substation.After receiving a 44,000 volt shock, the man walked to the hospital. He was transported to the UAB intensive care unit.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Police say he tried to jump the fence at an Alabama Power substation.After receiving a 44,000 volt shock, the man walked to the hospital. He was transported to the UAB intensive care unit.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Anniston ordinance gets landlord's ire
By Dixon Hayes
ANNISTON, AL (WBRC) - A new ordinance in Anniston is drawing bad reviews from a landlord who rents out more than a hundred properties.
On Tuesday, the council voted 4-0 to require landlords get an inspection of a property before it can be rented out. The inspection costs $50. If something is found wrong with the apartment or house, it has to be brought up to code before it can be rented.
Attorney Arthur Fite rents out more than a hundred properties and calls the new law a "nightmare" and a "bureaucratic hassle." He says before the law passed, he could show an apartment one afternoon and the city could have the water turned on in that apartment the next day. Now, he is not so sure.
"What's going to happen is, some lady's going to come here on a Thursday and want to rent an apartment," says Fite. "I'm going to have to have it inspected, they'll not be able to move in when they want to, and I'm sure the inspector will call and say 'Guess what? We can't look at it until late next week.'"
Mayor Gene Robinson denies that assertion, saying the longest delay will likely be 24 hours. He says the new law is fair to renters and landlords alike.
Robinson, who is one of the four yes votes, says the law is meant to weed out "slumlords," and let them know the city will monitor them and "make sure the houses are safe for the renters."
He also has a message for the renters:
"If you destroy a house, we're going to help the landlords and in some cases we'll even go to court with the landlords to prove that the house was in immaculate condition before," Robinson says.
Several residents spoke in favor of the ordinance at Tuesday's council meeting. So did Joan Thompson, one of Arthur Fite's own tenants, who broke with her own landlord and thinks it is a good idea. Thompson rented from Fite for 22-years and says he has always taken good care of her.
Council member Ben Little, who was not present at Tuesday's meeting, says he may bring the measure up for a reconsideration vote at the next Anniston City Council meeting. That meeting is scheduled for July 13th.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
ANNISTON, AL (WBRC) - A new ordinance in Anniston is drawing bad reviews from a landlord who rents out more than a hundred properties.
On Tuesday, the council voted 4-0 to require landlords get an inspection of a property before it can be rented out. The inspection costs $50. If something is found wrong with the apartment or house, it has to be brought up to code before it can be rented.
Attorney Arthur Fite rents out more than a hundred properties and calls the new law a "nightmare" and a "bureaucratic hassle." He says before the law passed, he could show an apartment one afternoon and the city could have the water turned on in that apartment the next day. Now, he is not so sure.
"What's going to happen is, some lady's going to come here on a Thursday and want to rent an apartment," says Fite. "I'm going to have to have it inspected, they'll not be able to move in when they want to, and I'm sure the inspector will call and say 'Guess what? We can't look at it until late next week.'"
Mayor Gene Robinson denies that assertion, saying the longest delay will likely be 24 hours. He says the new law is fair to renters and landlords alike.
Robinson, who is one of the four yes votes, says the law is meant to weed out "slumlords," and let them know the city will monitor them and "make sure the houses are safe for the renters."
He also has a message for the renters:
"If you destroy a house, we're going to help the landlords and in some cases we'll even go to court with the landlords to prove that the house was in immaculate condition before," Robinson says.
Several residents spoke in favor of the ordinance at Tuesday's council meeting. So did Joan Thompson, one of Arthur Fite's own tenants, who broke with her own landlord and thinks it is a good idea. Thompson rented from Fite for 22-years and says he has always taken good care of her.
Council member Ben Little, who was not present at Tuesday's meeting, says he may bring the measure up for a reconsideration vote at the next Anniston City Council meeting. That meeting is scheduled for July 13th.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
New fire station in Brighton
By Katie Herrera
BRIGHTON, AL (WBRC) - The city of Brighton public safety building, Station #1, is now open for service. Cheers erupted from firemen, city leaders, and Brighton residents as a dispatcher made the announcement Saturday afternoon.
The Brighton Fire Department now has a place to call home, in a brand new station between Main Street and Huntsville Avenue. But it comes as the ending to a five year battle for funding. The Jefferson County Commission wanted to cut money for the station in 2007.
"It's about saving lives. It's always been about that. And when the residents and I fought for this station that we so rightly deserved, it was the right thing to do," said District 2 Commissioner Shelia Smoot.
The Brighton firefighters now have a $700,000 facility to utilize. It has a full kitchen, meeting area and bathrooms. It also has a room with several beds, so the firemen will all be together when a call comes in. Before, they would have to come from home.
"Prior to us having this station, we actually operated out of the garage at City Hall. And when I say our resources were scattered, we may have had a fire truck at City Hall and over in the city lot may be some other equipment that we needed," explained Brighton Fire Chief Sebastion Carrillo. "So prior to us having this building, it was really a task just organizing to respond to an emergency."
The station is located in the center of the city, further cutting down response times.
"Last Monday, we were toned out on a house fire. From the time the call came in to the time the engine was on scene, was three minutes 12 seconds. That's what this building is allowing us to do," said Carrillo.
The Brighton Fire Department is a volunteer unit.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All Rights Reserved.
BRIGHTON, AL (WBRC) - The city of Brighton public safety building, Station #1, is now open for service. Cheers erupted from firemen, city leaders, and Brighton residents as a dispatcher made the announcement Saturday afternoon.
The Brighton Fire Department now has a place to call home, in a brand new station between Main Street and Huntsville Avenue. But it comes as the ending to a five year battle for funding. The Jefferson County Commission wanted to cut money for the station in 2007.
"It's about saving lives. It's always been about that. And when the residents and I fought for this station that we so rightly deserved, it was the right thing to do," said District 2 Commissioner Shelia Smoot.
The Brighton firefighters now have a $700,000 facility to utilize. It has a full kitchen, meeting area and bathrooms. It also has a room with several beds, so the firemen will all be together when a call comes in. Before, they would have to come from home.
"Prior to us having this station, we actually operated out of the garage at City Hall. And when I say our resources were scattered, we may have had a fire truck at City Hall and over in the city lot may be some other equipment that we needed," explained Brighton Fire Chief Sebastion Carrillo. "So prior to us having this building, it was really a task just organizing to respond to an emergency."
The station is located in the center of the city, further cutting down response times.
"Last Monday, we were toned out on a house fire. From the time the call came in to the time the engine was on scene, was three minutes 12 seconds. That's what this building is allowing us to do," said Carrillo.
The Brighton Fire Department is a volunteer unit.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All Rights Reserved.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Neighbors protest closing of Inglenook library
By Melanie Posey
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - More than 50 neighbors from Birmingham's Inglenook community chanted, held signs and marched Friday morning in an effort to save the neighborhood library.
"We want to make a last minute stand to let the officials of Birmingham know Inglenook is alive, we breathe, we have voices and faces," the crowd chanted.
Their efforts come as Inglenook is one of three libraries in the city to close in an effort to help ease budget strains. Inglenook was chosen to close because of structural and ADA concerns. It's also in close proximity to other branches.
City councilor Maxine Parker visited the library Wednesday and made a second tour Friday that gave her hope.
"I don't see a real reason whey we can address the ADA issues and keep this library open," Parker said.
With a lean budget, she says something must go, but that there are other options.
"And rather than close them, let's look at the length of time it's open so all citizens can be served," Parker said.
Parker will now take new recommendations back to the city council.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - More than 50 neighbors from Birmingham's Inglenook community chanted, held signs and marched Friday morning in an effort to save the neighborhood library.
"We want to make a last minute stand to let the officials of Birmingham know Inglenook is alive, we breathe, we have voices and faces," the crowd chanted.
Their efforts come as Inglenook is one of three libraries in the city to close in an effort to help ease budget strains. Inglenook was chosen to close because of structural and ADA concerns. It's also in close proximity to other branches.
City councilor Maxine Parker visited the library Wednesday and made a second tour Friday that gave her hope.
"I don't see a real reason whey we can address the ADA issues and keep this library open," Parker said.
With a lean budget, she says something must go, but that there are other options.
"And rather than close them, let's look at the length of time it's open so all citizens can be served," Parker said.
Parker will now take new recommendations back to the city council.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Some want Birmingham hotel project delayed
By Alan Collins
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The day after Birmingham Mayor William Bell touted the need for a new $50 million hotel along with an entertainment district next to the BJCC, some said the project needs to be delayed.
Rep. John Rogers has been a long time advocate for projects for downtown Birmingham, but the Democratic lawmaker said Friday now is not the time to act.
"It just not time during hard economic times," Rogers said. "We need to know our boundaries and be sure we are economically sound."
Thursday, Mayor Bell told a breakfast meeting of Operation New Birmingham the hotel and entertainment district would be an economic boost for the area and there was no need for a delay.
"I will pull out my pom poms and my short skirt if we cut the ribbon for the Westin Hotel," Bell said.
While the project will not require new taxes, it will require $5 million a year from Birmingham for 30 years. The Build America Bonds, a part of the federal stimulus package, will be issued by the BJCC board.
Rogers does not want the BJCC board voting on the deal at this time because the house delegation plans to make a new appoint to the board in about two weeks. In addition, Jefferson Co. Commission President Bettye Fine Collins will step down at the end of her term in November.
"Any old member shouldn't be voting on the something that is long term," Roger said. "They will be gone when it happens. Let the new members have a say how it's financed and how it works."
But the chairman of the BJCC board opposes any delay.
"I don't see any kind of delay until November until there is a potential for a board replacement because of a majority of the board is going to be is going to be there and a majority of the board is in favor of moving the project forward," Clyde Echols said.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The day after Birmingham Mayor William Bell touted the need for a new $50 million hotel along with an entertainment district next to the BJCC, some said the project needs to be delayed.
Rep. John Rogers has been a long time advocate for projects for downtown Birmingham, but the Democratic lawmaker said Friday now is not the time to act.
"It just not time during hard economic times," Rogers said. "We need to know our boundaries and be sure we are economically sound."
Thursday, Mayor Bell told a breakfast meeting of Operation New Birmingham the hotel and entertainment district would be an economic boost for the area and there was no need for a delay.
"I will pull out my pom poms and my short skirt if we cut the ribbon for the Westin Hotel," Bell said.
While the project will not require new taxes, it will require $5 million a year from Birmingham for 30 years. The Build America Bonds, a part of the federal stimulus package, will be issued by the BJCC board.
Rogers does not want the BJCC board voting on the deal at this time because the house delegation plans to make a new appoint to the board in about two weeks. In addition, Jefferson Co. Commission President Bettye Fine Collins will step down at the end of her term in November.
"Any old member shouldn't be voting on the something that is long term," Roger said. "They will be gone when it happens. Let the new members have a say how it's financed and how it works."
But the chairman of the BJCC board opposes any delay.
"I don't see any kind of delay until November until there is a potential for a board replacement because of a majority of the board is going to be is going to be there and a majority of the board is in favor of moving the project forward," Clyde Echols said.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
New group tackles Jefferson County leadership problems
By Alan Collins
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A new group wants to tackle some of the major problems facing Jefferson County.
The non-profit group is called Leadership Jefferson County. Organizers said it will be based on other leadership groups such as Leadership Birmingham and Leadership Alabama.
So far 30 members have joined and the group wants another 30 to sign up. The list includes the dean of the Birmingham School of Law.
"Given the fact we have 23 municipalities, we are so segmented in Jefferson County that this umbrella will help address that," James Bushnell said.
As for those issues, Leadership Jefferson County wants to address the possible loss of millions of a dollars from the new occupational which is facing a court challenge, as well as the $3 billion sewer bond debt.
Jefferson County Commissioner-elect George Bowman says the organization can help find solutions.
"We will have different ideas that will have to be brought to the table," Bowman said. "Different solutions that will be brought to the table from people not inside the courthouse."
Bowman remains an advocate for Cooper Green Mercy Hospital and not selling the Jefferson Co. Rehabilitation and Health Center, the county run nursing home. Bowman hopes the group will help his cause.
Non-profits are seeking a voice. Tony Cooper of the Jimmie Hale Mission says Leadership Jefferson County may help with their funding problems.
"Try to get over, to me, some of the mistrust," Cooper said. "As a non-profit we need to be inclusive. We need to welcome ideas from all over."
Anyone interested in joining Leadership Jefferson County can contact Executive Director Anthony Johnson at leadershipjeffersoncounty@gmail.com.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A new group wants to tackle some of the major problems facing Jefferson County.
The non-profit group is called Leadership Jefferson County. Organizers said it will be based on other leadership groups such as Leadership Birmingham and Leadership Alabama.
So far 30 members have joined and the group wants another 30 to sign up. The list includes the dean of the Birmingham School of Law.
"Given the fact we have 23 municipalities, we are so segmented in Jefferson County that this umbrella will help address that," James Bushnell said.
As for those issues, Leadership Jefferson County wants to address the possible loss of millions of a dollars from the new occupational which is facing a court challenge, as well as the $3 billion sewer bond debt.
Jefferson County Commissioner-elect George Bowman says the organization can help find solutions.
"We will have different ideas that will have to be brought to the table," Bowman said. "Different solutions that will be brought to the table from people not inside the courthouse."
Bowman remains an advocate for Cooper Green Mercy Hospital and not selling the Jefferson Co. Rehabilitation and Health Center, the county run nursing home. Bowman hopes the group will help his cause.
Non-profits are seeking a voice. Tony Cooper of the Jimmie Hale Mission says Leadership Jefferson County may help with their funding problems.
"Try to get over, to me, some of the mistrust," Cooper said. "As a non-profit we need to be inclusive. We need to welcome ideas from all over."
Anyone interested in joining Leadership Jefferson County can contact Executive Director Anthony Johnson at leadershipjeffersoncounty@gmail.com.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Store owner: if my gun hadn't jammed, 'he'd be dead'
By Ashley Nix
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A wild scene Friday morning in downtown Birmingham, right in the middle of rush hour traffic, where police say an armed suspect came into a BP gas station off University Boulevard, turning the scene into a shootout between the suspect and store owner.
Dwight Houser showed FOX6 News the bullet holes throughout his Southside store Friday afternoon. He said he knows he’s lucky to be alive after he said an armed robber came into his store around 7:15 a.m., holding a gun to his cashier’s head.
"He came in, gave no warning, took the gun, put it straight to Ken's head," Houser said. "Ken ran in the office... once he ran in, I shut the door, I got my gun, and I returned fire. I did the only thing I knew to do, take care of my people and I shot back."
But, as Houser returned fire, his gun jammed, and as he was trying to retrieve another weapon, the suspect was wildly firing away.
Bullet holes are now evident all over the inside of his store. Shockingly, no one was hit by gunfire.
Houser believes if his gun wouldn’t have been jammed, the suspect would likely be dead.
"He'd be dead, he was behind my counter beating the register with a gun,” Houser said. “He put a gun to my guy's head, he deserved to die, but I'm blessed he didn't. After it's said and done, I'm glad I didn't hit him. I just did what came natural, I'm blessed I didn't hit him, I'm very lucky."
Keep in mind, this all happened in the middle of downtown rush hour and several customers were outside pumping gas. Houser said people could hear it at the red light.
"Witnesses came in and said they heard bang, bang, bang, bang."
The suspect reportedly went to nearby Southtown Housing where witnesses followed him. Police then took him into custody. Charges are pending.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A wild scene Friday morning in downtown Birmingham, right in the middle of rush hour traffic, where police say an armed suspect came into a BP gas station off University Boulevard, turning the scene into a shootout between the suspect and store owner.
Dwight Houser showed FOX6 News the bullet holes throughout his Southside store Friday afternoon. He said he knows he’s lucky to be alive after he said an armed robber came into his store around 7:15 a.m., holding a gun to his cashier’s head.
"He came in, gave no warning, took the gun, put it straight to Ken's head," Houser said. "Ken ran in the office... once he ran in, I shut the door, I got my gun, and I returned fire. I did the only thing I knew to do, take care of my people and I shot back."
But, as Houser returned fire, his gun jammed, and as he was trying to retrieve another weapon, the suspect was wildly firing away.
Bullet holes are now evident all over the inside of his store. Shockingly, no one was hit by gunfire.
Houser believes if his gun wouldn’t have been jammed, the suspect would likely be dead.
"He'd be dead, he was behind my counter beating the register with a gun,” Houser said. “He put a gun to my guy's head, he deserved to die, but I'm blessed he didn't. After it's said and done, I'm glad I didn't hit him. I just did what came natural, I'm blessed I didn't hit him, I'm very lucky."
Keep in mind, this all happened in the middle of downtown rush hour and several customers were outside pumping gas. Houser said people could hear it at the red light.
"Witnesses came in and said they heard bang, bang, bang, bang."
The suspect reportedly went to nearby Southtown Housing where witnesses followed him. Police then took him into custody. Charges are pending.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Type 2 diabetes could be linked to mothers’ blood sugar during pregnancy
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – A study from the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that Type 2 diabetes in children may be linked to a mother’s blood sugar during pregnancy.
The study found that children of women with high blood sugar during pregnancy have changes in the way their bodies process carbohydrates. These changes are believed to lead to Type 2 diabetes.
Children who were exposed to maternal blood glucose were known to have lower insulin sensitivity and greater post-meal insulin secretion, despite body composition or other factors. The study strongly suggests the prenatal environment may program fetal carbohydrate metabolism, according to the authors.
"These findings support the concept that maternal blood glucose plays a role in how the developing fetus manages insulin secretion from the pancreas and also of insulin sensitivity at target tissues such as the skeletal muscle and liver," said Paula Chandler-Laney, Ph.D.
The authors of the study suggest that further studies will be needed that start at pregnancy and follow through childhood to determine if the insulin levels continue into adulthood.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The study found that children of women with high blood sugar during pregnancy have changes in the way their bodies process carbohydrates. These changes are believed to lead to Type 2 diabetes.
Children who were exposed to maternal blood glucose were known to have lower insulin sensitivity and greater post-meal insulin secretion, despite body composition or other factors. The study strongly suggests the prenatal environment may program fetal carbohydrate metabolism, according to the authors.
"These findings support the concept that maternal blood glucose plays a role in how the developing fetus manages insulin secretion from the pancreas and also of insulin sensitivity at target tissues such as the skeletal muscle and liver," said Paula Chandler-Laney, Ph.D.
The authors of the study suggest that further studies will be needed that start at pregnancy and follow through childhood to determine if the insulin levels continue into adulthood.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Identity confirmed of body found in Etowah County
ETOWAH COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - The Department of Forensic Sciences has confirmed that a woman's body found in Etowah County is that of Tonya Turnmire.
Albertville police recovered Turnmire's body Saturday in some woods in the Rock Ledge community.
Authorities say she died on June 4th.
Police have charged Turnmire's boyfriend, 31-year-old Ray Shockley, with her murder. Shockley remains in the Marshall County Jail on a million dollars bond.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Albertville police recovered Turnmire's body Saturday in some woods in the Rock Ledge community.
Authorities say she died on June 4th.
Police have charged Turnmire's boyfriend, 31-year-old Ray Shockley, with her murder. Shockley remains in the Marshall County Jail on a million dollars bond.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Brighton man missing since Memorial Day
BRIGHTON, AL (WBRC) -The search continues for a missing Jefferson County man.
38-year-old Reggie Davis of Brighton has been missing since Memorial Day. He was last seen at a bar-b-que at a friend’s home in Bessemer.
Tuscaloosa police found his SUV parked at a grocery store. Family members tell FOX6 News the vehicle has been turned over to Brighton police who are checking it for evidence.
Davis' family is offering a cash reward for information leading to whereabouts.
38-year-old Reggie Davis of Brighton has been missing since Memorial Day. He was last seen at a bar-b-que at a friend’s home in Bessemer.
Tuscaloosa police found his SUV parked at a grocery store. Family members tell FOX6 News the vehicle has been turned over to Brighton police who are checking it for evidence.
Davis' family is offering a cash reward for information leading to whereabouts.
Pet alligator found in Jefferson County home
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – A pet alligator in Jefferson County will soon be finding a new place to live.
Randy Christian with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department says they received a call on Thursday about an alligator being illegally kept as a pet. When deputies arrived on the scene at a home in the 400 block of Sheppard Lane in the Providence area of west Jefferson County, the discovered a 24 inch alligator being kept in a makeshift pen.
The Alabama Department of Conservation was summoned and took up the investigation.
Felony charges could be brought against the owner, but he will more likely face misdemeanor charges that carry a fine and no jail time.
The alligator will be relocated to an appropriate habitat.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Randy Christian with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department says they received a call on Thursday about an alligator being illegally kept as a pet. When deputies arrived on the scene at a home in the 400 block of Sheppard Lane in the Providence area of west Jefferson County, the discovered a 24 inch alligator being kept in a makeshift pen.
The Alabama Department of Conservation was summoned and took up the investigation.
Felony charges could be brought against the owner, but he will more likely face misdemeanor charges that carry a fine and no jail time.
The alligator will be relocated to an appropriate habitat.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Audit report show Birmingham schools still having money issues
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A newly released audit report on the financial status of Birmingham schools found the school system to still be suffering from several financial problems.
The report by the Department of Examiners of Public Accounts covered the time period from October 1, 2008 to September 30, 2009. Its conclusion says the Birmingham School System’s general fund expenditures exceeded revenues by $8.7 million during this time period.
The drop in enrollment in the schools and proration were noted as major financial issues for the schools.
10 Birmingham schools were cited for faulty bookkeeping. The biggest issue among these schools tended to be teachers not turning in receipts in a timely manner. The report says that receipt journals were provided to teachers, but many collected journals were found disorganized with missing master receipts, late dated purchase orders and no original invoices.
A corrective action plan from Superintendent Craig Witherspoon noted the problems and said steps have been taken to resolve them.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The report by the Department of Examiners of Public Accounts covered the time period from October 1, 2008 to September 30, 2009. Its conclusion says the Birmingham School System’s general fund expenditures exceeded revenues by $8.7 million during this time period.
The drop in enrollment in the schools and proration were noted as major financial issues for the schools.
10 Birmingham schools were cited for faulty bookkeeping. The biggest issue among these schools tended to be teachers not turning in receipts in a timely manner. The report says that receipt journals were provided to teachers, but many collected journals were found disorganized with missing master receipts, late dated purchase orders and no original invoices.
A corrective action plan from Superintendent Craig Witherspoon noted the problems and said steps have been taken to resolve them.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Attempted robbery ends in gun fire
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – A morning robbery turned into a shootout on University Boulevard on Friday morning.
The Birmingham Police Department says a person tried to rob the BP gas station around 7:30 a.m. Police say the suspect shot at the clerk and the clerk returned gun fire. No one was injured.
The suspect fled the scene and ran into the housing projects across the street. Witnesses pointed out the suspect to officers and was taken into custody a few blocks away.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The Birmingham Police Department says a person tried to rob the BP gas station around 7:30 a.m. Police say the suspect shot at the clerk and the clerk returned gun fire. No one was injured.
The suspect fled the scene and ran into the housing projects across the street. Witnesses pointed out the suspect to officers and was taken into custody a few blocks away.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham firefighters worried over additional pay cuts
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – Birmingham firefighters met one on one with Mayor William Bell on Thursday night. They got a chance to get their questions answered about proposed pay cuts.
Firefighters are worried about their checks being cut even more than what city leaders are proposing. Mayor Bell says an additional 20% cut to firefighter pay is out of his control. He says it is involving issues raised in a federal court case and he has to meet the expectations of a judge. There is an ongoing case that requires firefighter and police yearly pay to be comparable.
Members of the Birmingham Firefighters Association do not think the additional cuts are fair. "I think the council is working diligently to go over budget with a fine tooth comb,” says Don Baker, the President of the Birmingham Firefighters Association. “I’m pleased with what they have been doing, however I question from where some of this directive may be coming from as to firefighter pay must be cut."
Baker says the meeting with the mayor did give his members a better understanding of why the additional 20% cuts are being imposed. Baker says he is now forced to accept it. He says he will continue to go the council's budget workshops to see what can be done to make the other proposed cuts as minimal as possible for his members.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Firefighters are worried about their checks being cut even more than what city leaders are proposing. Mayor Bell says an additional 20% cut to firefighter pay is out of his control. He says it is involving issues raised in a federal court case and he has to meet the expectations of a judge. There is an ongoing case that requires firefighter and police yearly pay to be comparable.
Members of the Birmingham Firefighters Association do not think the additional cuts are fair. "I think the council is working diligently to go over budget with a fine tooth comb,” says Don Baker, the President of the Birmingham Firefighters Association. “I’m pleased with what they have been doing, however I question from where some of this directive may be coming from as to firefighter pay must be cut."
Baker says the meeting with the mayor did give his members a better understanding of why the additional 20% cuts are being imposed. Baker says he is now forced to accept it. He says he will continue to go the council's budget workshops to see what can be done to make the other proposed cuts as minimal as possible for his members.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
International soccer match to bring plenty fans to Birmingham
By Sherea Harris
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Legion Field will hosts a large international soccer match Sunday.
Atlanta and Chattanooga were among several other cities competing for the match.
Mayor William Bell says this is huge, adding that it's going to be one of largest soccer events to be held in the city.
The soccer match is part of the city's grand plan to attract more sporting events to the city, while developing the sports image of Birmingham.
The Birmingham Area Adult Soccer League assisted the city with recruitment.
Mexico's Olympic men's national soccer team will play El Salvador's team.
The match is expected to have a large economic impact on Birmingham as it's been advertised throughout the southeast.
Mayor Bell is proud Birmingham was chosen. He says with the excitement surrounding the World Cup, he expects the event to draw a large crowd of soccer fans.
The "friendly" is apart of a larger tournament that culminates in July in Puerto Rico.
The kickoff is at 1pm, Sunday at Legion Field.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Legion Field will hosts a large international soccer match Sunday.
Atlanta and Chattanooga were among several other cities competing for the match.
Mayor William Bell says this is huge, adding that it's going to be one of largest soccer events to be held in the city.
The soccer match is part of the city's grand plan to attract more sporting events to the city, while developing the sports image of Birmingham.
The Birmingham Area Adult Soccer League assisted the city with recruitment.
Mexico's Olympic men's national soccer team will play El Salvador's team.
The match is expected to have a large economic impact on Birmingham as it's been advertised throughout the southeast.
Mayor Bell is proud Birmingham was chosen. He says with the excitement surrounding the World Cup, he expects the event to draw a large crowd of soccer fans.
The "friendly" is apart of a larger tournament that culminates in July in Puerto Rico.
The kickoff is at 1pm, Sunday at Legion Field.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Teen dies in police custody, family asks DA for help
By Melanie Posey
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The family of a Birmingham teen who died in the custody of Homewood Police says not enough is being done in the investigation. Their claims were sent in a letter from Bryon Perkins, the attorney for William Owens' family.
Perkins asks Jefferson County's district attorney, Brandon Falls, to form an independent citizen's advisory committee comprised of religious and civic leaders along with law enforcement to investigate the circumstances surrounding Owens' death.
Owens died after being tasered by a Homewood Police officer.
Homewood officials says Williams was resisting arrest after being caught burglarizing cars.
The district attorney, Falls, says forming a citizen's review committee, as the family has requested, is not under the purview of his office. That's something a legislative body must approve.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The family of a Birmingham teen who died in the custody of Homewood Police says not enough is being done in the investigation. Their claims were sent in a letter from Bryon Perkins, the attorney for William Owens' family.
Perkins asks Jefferson County's district attorney, Brandon Falls, to form an independent citizen's advisory committee comprised of religious and civic leaders along with law enforcement to investigate the circumstances surrounding Owens' death.
Owens died after being tasered by a Homewood Police officer.
Homewood officials says Williams was resisting arrest after being caught burglarizing cars.
The district attorney, Falls, says forming a citizen's review committee, as the family has requested, is not under the purview of his office. That's something a legislative body must approve.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham police officers show skills at competition
By Melanie Posey
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The goal of the Birmingham Police Department is to protect and serve. But for 30 officers, Wednesday and Thursday were about gaining bragging rights.
Those officers participated in the department's inaugural "Top Cop" Competition.
The event was created to honor those officers killed in the line of duty.
Contestants demonstrated their skills in marksmanship, physical endurance, and more. All was for a chance at earning top honors. "And it's not just driving or firearms, it's the total package," said Sgt. Jeffrey Sartain, who helped develop the course. "And that's what we've done is incorporate all they use in an eight hour shift and test it, push it to their limit and see how far they can go with it. "There were two categories.
Officer John Massey from the department's tactical unit won in the 35 and over category.
Officer Terry Davis from the south precinct won in the 34 and under division.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The goal of the Birmingham Police Department is to protect and serve. But for 30 officers, Wednesday and Thursday were about gaining bragging rights.
Those officers participated in the department's inaugural "Top Cop" Competition.
The event was created to honor those officers killed in the line of duty.
Contestants demonstrated their skills in marksmanship, physical endurance, and more. All was for a chance at earning top honors. "And it's not just driving or firearms, it's the total package," said Sgt. Jeffrey Sartain, who helped develop the course. "And that's what we've done is incorporate all they use in an eight hour shift and test it, push it to their limit and see how far they can go with it. "There were two categories.
Officer John Massey from the department's tactical unit won in the 35 and over category.
Officer Terry Davis from the south precinct won in the 34 and under division.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Government seeks $3 million from Birmingham for fish kill
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service wants the city of Birmingham to pay nearly $3 million in penalties for actions city workers took to clear a dam that resulted in the death of nearly 12,000 fish.
The Service issued Thursday a notice of violations to the city of Birmingham for killing 11,760 watercress darters, an endangered species protected by the Endangered Species Act, and also for injuries to some 8,900 additional darters. The Service, in the statement to FOX6 News, said it is seeking a civil penalty totaling $2,975,000.
The Service said its action stems from an incident that happened September 19, 2008, when a city maintenance crew removed a beaver dam from the Roebuck Springs pool in Hawkins Park. The crew also breached an underlying earthen dam that formed the spring pool where more than 20,000 of the small endangered fish lived. Breaching the dam quickly drained the spring pool and stranded and killed thousands of watercress darters among a mass of drying aquatic plants. The massive fish kill resulted in the loss of more than half of the largest known population of this species.
The Service said watercress darters are listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act and are a trust resource protected by Alabama law. The only populations in the world are found in five spring pools and spring brooks in Jefferson County, Alabama, within the metropolitan area of Birmingham.
“Our ultimate goal at Roebuck Springs is to restore and protect the habitat of the watercress darter. That’s always been the plan,” said Cynthia K. Dohner, Southeast Regional Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. “We want to do what’s best for the fish, and our work is far from over.”
The Service said early negotiations with the City of Birmingham in an effort to restore and maintain the habitat of the watercress darter were partially successful. Initially, the City accepted responsibility for breaching the earthen dam and quickly cooperated on installation of a sandbag dam, aerator, water quality monitoring device and, later, installation of the permanent water-control structure and informational signs. The Service said more needs to be done to protect this endangered fish species, which continues to be threatened by city-controlled facilities and the surrounding urbanization.
The Service said in Thursday's statement the city of Birmingham has declined to take several additional actions, including identifying the recharge area for Roebuck Springs and taking actions to protect the recharge waters from contamination, diverting or filtering storm sewer discharges into Roebuck Springs pool or diverting or filtering runoff from the city’s recreation center parking lot into the spring run, improving the habitat for the species in the spring run and in a second significant pool along the spring run, or conducting a public education effort about the species.
The Service said the City has 45 days to respond to the Notice of Violations by paying the proposed civil penalty, seeking informal negotiations with the Service, or filing a Petition for Relief pursuant to 50 Code of Federal Regulation 11.12.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The Service issued Thursday a notice of violations to the city of Birmingham for killing 11,760 watercress darters, an endangered species protected by the Endangered Species Act, and also for injuries to some 8,900 additional darters. The Service, in the statement to FOX6 News, said it is seeking a civil penalty totaling $2,975,000.
The Service said its action stems from an incident that happened September 19, 2008, when a city maintenance crew removed a beaver dam from the Roebuck Springs pool in Hawkins Park. The crew also breached an underlying earthen dam that formed the spring pool where more than 20,000 of the small endangered fish lived. Breaching the dam quickly drained the spring pool and stranded and killed thousands of watercress darters among a mass of drying aquatic plants. The massive fish kill resulted in the loss of more than half of the largest known population of this species.
The Service said watercress darters are listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act and are a trust resource protected by Alabama law. The only populations in the world are found in five spring pools and spring brooks in Jefferson County, Alabama, within the metropolitan area of Birmingham.
“Our ultimate goal at Roebuck Springs is to restore and protect the habitat of the watercress darter. That’s always been the plan,” said Cynthia K. Dohner, Southeast Regional Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. “We want to do what’s best for the fish, and our work is far from over.”
The Service said early negotiations with the City of Birmingham in an effort to restore and maintain the habitat of the watercress darter were partially successful. Initially, the City accepted responsibility for breaching the earthen dam and quickly cooperated on installation of a sandbag dam, aerator, water quality monitoring device and, later, installation of the permanent water-control structure and informational signs. The Service said more needs to be done to protect this endangered fish species, which continues to be threatened by city-controlled facilities and the surrounding urbanization.
The Service said in Thursday's statement the city of Birmingham has declined to take several additional actions, including identifying the recharge area for Roebuck Springs and taking actions to protect the recharge waters from contamination, diverting or filtering storm sewer discharges into Roebuck Springs pool or diverting or filtering runoff from the city’s recreation center parking lot into the spring run, improving the habitat for the species in the spring run and in a second significant pool along the spring run, or conducting a public education effort about the species.
The Service said the City has 45 days to respond to the Notice of Violations by paying the proposed civil penalty, seeking informal negotiations with the Service, or filing a Petition for Relief pursuant to 50 Code of Federal Regulation 11.12.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham police reports 20th homicide of 2010
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – The Birmingham Police Department says a man was killed Thursday evening in the 700 block of Albany Street.
Officers say 35-year-old Tyrone Davis was found suffering from a gunshot wound by Baptist Hospital Princeton. Davis was transported to UAB Hospital for additional treatment. He was pronounced deceased during transport.
There are no suspects in custody.
If there is anyone who has information pertaining to the case, they are encouraged to contact the B.P.D. Homicide Unit @ 254-1764 or Crime Stoppers @ 254-7777.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Officers say 35-year-old Tyrone Davis was found suffering from a gunshot wound by Baptist Hospital Princeton. Davis was transported to UAB Hospital for additional treatment. He was pronounced deceased during transport.
There are no suspects in custody.
If there is anyone who has information pertaining to the case, they are encouraged to contact the B.P.D. Homicide Unit @ 254-1764 or Crime Stoppers @ 254-7777.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
ProgressPAC endorses Bradley Byrne
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) – The Business Council of Alabama’s political action committee, ProgressPAC, has announced its endorsement of Bradley Byrne for governor.
In a press release issued on Thursday, ProgressPAC Chairman William W. Brooke says, “Bradley Byrne has been a tireless advocate for improved education, political reform and economic progress in our state. Along the way, he has proven he is willing to say no to the special interests and to stand up for what is right for Alabama no matter the personal cost. He is a proven leader who wants the best for our state, and ProgressPAC feels he is the choice for Governor.”
The runoff between Byrne and his opponent, Dr. Robert Bentley, takes place on July 13th.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
In a press release issued on Thursday, ProgressPAC Chairman William W. Brooke says, “Bradley Byrne has been a tireless advocate for improved education, political reform and economic progress in our state. Along the way, he has proven he is willing to say no to the special interests and to stand up for what is right for Alabama no matter the personal cost. He is a proven leader who wants the best for our state, and ProgressPAC feels he is the choice for Governor.”
The runoff between Byrne and his opponent, Dr. Robert Bentley, takes place on July 13th.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Announcement expected over high speed rail line
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - In Birmingham, a big announcement is expected from the Greater Birmingham Regional Planning Commission.
They are speaking right now about feasibility study to look at a high speed passenger rail line between Birmingham and Atlanta.
We will have more information on the news coming up at five.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
They are speaking right now about feasibility study to look at a high speed passenger rail line between Birmingham and Atlanta.
We will have more information on the news coming up at five.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Candlelight vigil to be held for two murdered men
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A candlelight vigil will be held Thursday night in memory of two young men murdered in Birmingham.
19-year-old Rasheed Ward and 24-year-old Keith Hilson were shot and killed last Thursday in the 4600 block of Terrace S. A week later, there are still no arrests in the case.
The Parents Against Violence Foundation is holding the vigil at the location where the shootings happened.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
19-year-old Rasheed Ward and 24-year-old Keith Hilson were shot and killed last Thursday in the 4600 block of Terrace S. A week later, there are still no arrests in the case.
The Parents Against Violence Foundation is holding the vigil at the location where the shootings happened.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham police searching for missing man
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham police need your help in finding 71-year-old Raymond Cochran.
Cochran was last seen Thursday on 19th Street in Ensley. Officers say he has dementia.
If you have seen him or know where he is, call the police department at 254-7777.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Cochran was last seen Thursday on 19th Street in Ensley. Officers say he has dementia.
If you have seen him or know where he is, call the police department at 254-7777.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Customers form long lines for iPhone 4
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Some lucky customers have already received their new iPhones in the mail, but today is the official launch day. People are lined up waiting to get their hands on iPhone 4.
The global launch is happening at 7 a-m in each time zone. Wal-Mart, Best Buy and Radioshack also have a select number of phones to sell today, but AT&T will not be selling iPhone 4 out of its stores and website until June 29th.
FOX6 Photographer Wil Raines caught several anxious folks waiting outside the Apple Store at the
Summit.
The wait for their new phone is almost over. The apple store opened at 7.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The global launch is happening at 7 a-m in each time zone. Wal-Mart, Best Buy and Radioshack also have a select number of phones to sell today, but AT&T will not be selling iPhone 4 out of its stores and website until June 29th.
FOX6 Photographer Wil Raines caught several anxious folks waiting outside the Apple Store at the
Summit.
The wait for their new phone is almost over. The apple store opened at 7.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Scalpers suspected in free concert sell out
By Kelvin Reynolds
GULF SHORES, AL (WBRC) - Some people are saying an effort to help the gulf coast has been hijacked by ticket scalpers.
Jimmy Buffet is headlining a free concert in gulf shores next week. Those free tickets were snatched up online in a matter of minutes on Wednesday morning, but then some of them quickly went up for sale on eBay.
Members of the Magic City Parrot Head Club are some of the thousands with ruffled feathers about not getting tickets.
"We were in that large, large group that did not get tickets,” said Parrot Head member Kay Moore. “Even though we stayed online for 45 minutes, over 20 attempts repeatedly with no tickets."
35,000 thousand tickets were available online, but it appears a 4 ticket per customer limit didn't matter to some. Tickets quickly popped up for sale on eBay and other websites, in some cases, for hundreds of dollars. The Parrot Heads say they are not buying claims the money would go towards helping the gulf coast.
Organizers hoped a concert featuring Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney and others would encourage music fans to vacation on the coast for a couple of days at a time when many are vacationing elsewhere.
As of this evening, eBay, craigslist and other sites suspended sales for concert tickets.
The governor's office is looking into how so many tickets disappeared so fast. We talked to at least one realtor who says some concert tickets remain available as part of a package with a hotel or condo stay on Alabama’s gulf coast.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
GULF SHORES, AL (WBRC) - Some people are saying an effort to help the gulf coast has been hijacked by ticket scalpers.
Jimmy Buffet is headlining a free concert in gulf shores next week. Those free tickets were snatched up online in a matter of minutes on Wednesday morning, but then some of them quickly went up for sale on eBay.
Members of the Magic City Parrot Head Club are some of the thousands with ruffled feathers about not getting tickets.
"We were in that large, large group that did not get tickets,” said Parrot Head member Kay Moore. “Even though we stayed online for 45 minutes, over 20 attempts repeatedly with no tickets."
35,000 thousand tickets were available online, but it appears a 4 ticket per customer limit didn't matter to some. Tickets quickly popped up for sale on eBay and other websites, in some cases, for hundreds of dollars. The Parrot Heads say they are not buying claims the money would go towards helping the gulf coast.
Organizers hoped a concert featuring Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney and others would encourage music fans to vacation on the coast for a couple of days at a time when many are vacationing elsewhere.
As of this evening, eBay, craigslist and other sites suspended sales for concert tickets.
The governor's office is looking into how so many tickets disappeared so fast. We talked to at least one realtor who says some concert tickets remain available as part of a package with a hotel or condo stay on Alabama’s gulf coast.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Alert issued for missing Birmingham man
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A statewide alert continues for a missing Birmingham man.
Jefferson County deputies need help finding Ray Earley. He was last seen at his home Monday.
Earley has serious medical problems and left home with no money, medication, or ID. Deputies say he may try and hitch a ride with anyone.
If you have information on Mr. Earley, call 205-325-1450.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jefferson County deputies need help finding Ray Earley. He was last seen at his home Monday.
Earley has serious medical problems and left home with no money, medication, or ID. Deputies say he may try and hitch a ride with anyone.
If you have information on Mr. Earley, call 205-325-1450.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Hueytown police searching for missing Alzheimer's patient
HUEYTOWN, AL (WBRC) - A massive search effort is underway in Hueytown. Police and Jefferson County Sheriff's deputies are searching for a missing man who they say is an Alzheimer’s patient.
Investigators say Dr. Donald Webster Autrey went walking with his dogs Wednesday evening near his home in the Lakeview Estates subdivision off Dee Hendrix Road in west Jefferson County.
Searchers used dogs and the sheriff's department helicopter, but were unable to find him.
Investigators say Autrey stands about 5’11” and weighs about 200 pounds.
If you see doctor Autrey, call Hueytown police at 491-3523.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Investigators say Dr. Donald Webster Autrey went walking with his dogs Wednesday evening near his home in the Lakeview Estates subdivision off Dee Hendrix Road in west Jefferson County.
Searchers used dogs and the sheriff's department helicopter, but were unable to find him.
Investigators say Autrey stands about 5’11” and weighs about 200 pounds.
If you see doctor Autrey, call Hueytown police at 491-3523.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Special report on oil spill airs on Raycom stations
GULF SHORES, AL (WBRC) - Raycom Media and several of its TV stations aired a special report Wednesday night on how the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is affecting the Alabama Gulf Coast.
"Coastal Crisis: Impact Alabama" aired Wednesday night on every Raycom TV station in Alabama, plus two other Raycom stations in Georgia. It was also simulcast on more than 20 Raycom TV station websites.
The LIVE one-hour special from Gulf Shores focused on how the spill was affecting Alabama’s tourism industry, overall economy and wildlife, as well as what was being done to protect and restore Alabama’s pristine beaches. It featured interviews with experts as well as first-hand accounts from those coastal residents whose lives had been impacted by the spill. The show also featured a live interview with Alabama Governor Bob Riley to discuss the state and federal response to the disaster as well as his views on the future of the Alabama coastal region.
People watching the show on this web page also had the opportunity to participate in a live chat with local experts, including Dr. George Crozier, Executive Director of the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, and Bruce Stallsmith, professor of aquatic biology and fisheries biology at the University Of Alabama-Huntsville.
The special aired LIVE from Gulf Shores from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m CT on the following Raycom TV stations across Alabama and Georgia:
WAFF - Huntsville
WBRC - Birmingham
WSFA - Montgomery
WTVM - Columbus
WDFX - Dothan
WTOC - Savannah
The special also aired on Comcast Cable in the Mobile, Ala., area and on numerous Raycom News websites.
To see a replay of the special report, visit one of the following websites:
WAFF - www.waff.com
WBRC - www.myfoxal.com
WSFA - www.wsfa.com
WTVM - www.wtvm.com
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
"Coastal Crisis: Impact Alabama" aired Wednesday night on every Raycom TV station in Alabama, plus two other Raycom stations in Georgia. It was also simulcast on more than 20 Raycom TV station websites.
The LIVE one-hour special from Gulf Shores focused on how the spill was affecting Alabama’s tourism industry, overall economy and wildlife, as well as what was being done to protect and restore Alabama’s pristine beaches. It featured interviews with experts as well as first-hand accounts from those coastal residents whose lives had been impacted by the spill. The show also featured a live interview with Alabama Governor Bob Riley to discuss the state and federal response to the disaster as well as his views on the future of the Alabama coastal region.
People watching the show on this web page also had the opportunity to participate in a live chat with local experts, including Dr. George Crozier, Executive Director of the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, and Bruce Stallsmith, professor of aquatic biology and fisheries biology at the University Of Alabama-Huntsville.
The special aired LIVE from Gulf Shores from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m CT on the following Raycom TV stations across Alabama and Georgia:
WAFF - Huntsville
WBRC - Birmingham
WSFA - Montgomery
WTVM - Columbus
WDFX - Dothan
WTOC - Savannah
The special also aired on Comcast Cable in the Mobile, Ala., area and on numerous Raycom News websites.
To see a replay of the special report, visit one of the following websites:
WAFF - www.waff.com
WBRC - www.myfoxal.com
WSFA - www.wsfa.com
WTVM - www.wtvm.com
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Walker County battles meth problem
By Katie Herrera
JASPER, AL (WBRC) - In Walker County, methamphetamine is the number one drug problem, according to Adam Hadder, Assistant Director of the Walker County Narcotics Unit.
Hadder says the problems stem from the fact that now meth can be made in containers as small 20 ounce bottles. It’s called the “shake and bake” method. It’s easier to make, easier to transport and easier to toss.
Now the miniature meth labs are becoming a safety concern for the public. Residents are finding them on the side of the road.
"They just take them and throw them out on the side of the road,” said Hadder, referring to the suspects making the meth. “We have had continuous calls of people that are walking on the side of the road, or walking their front yards, and find a meth lab that’s just been tossed out."
The "shake and bake" labs may look like just an average soda bottle at first. Hadder says you can usually tell if it’s a lab if because it will have black pellets inside, which are the nitrate fertilizer. It will also have a chemical odor.
Hadder says not to handle one if you find one. They are very dangerous.
"They’re very volatile and explosive. So just laying on the side of the road, they could reactivate," said Hadder.
They are also making it harder to crack down on the growing problem.
"It’s taking time and manpower for us to go out and clean it up, and we don’t even have a body or an arrest to go with it."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
JASPER, AL (WBRC) - In Walker County, methamphetamine is the number one drug problem, according to Adam Hadder, Assistant Director of the Walker County Narcotics Unit.
Hadder says the problems stem from the fact that now meth can be made in containers as small 20 ounce bottles. It’s called the “shake and bake” method. It’s easier to make, easier to transport and easier to toss.
Now the miniature meth labs are becoming a safety concern for the public. Residents are finding them on the side of the road.
"They just take them and throw them out on the side of the road,” said Hadder, referring to the suspects making the meth. “We have had continuous calls of people that are walking on the side of the road, or walking their front yards, and find a meth lab that’s just been tossed out."
The "shake and bake" labs may look like just an average soda bottle at first. Hadder says you can usually tell if it’s a lab if because it will have black pellets inside, which are the nitrate fertilizer. It will also have a chemical odor.
Hadder says not to handle one if you find one. They are very dangerous.
"They’re very volatile and explosive. So just laying on the side of the road, they could reactivate," said Hadder.
They are also making it harder to crack down on the growing problem.
"It’s taking time and manpower for us to go out and clean it up, and we don’t even have a body or an arrest to go with it."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
By Melanie Posey
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A Jefferson County judge has declared Scott Lamar Abbott mentally competent to stand trial.
That decision came Wednesday after a hearing was held to determine if Abbott is capable of participating in his defense.
Abbott is accused of killing four people at a Hueytown home in March 2009. The victims were Nika Sandlin, 24, Jeri Lynn Cole, 27, Joshua Gileo, 26, and William Chad Gilbert, 31.
During Wednesday’s hearing, Dr. Allen Shealy, a clinical psychologist for the defense, agreed with the state’s psychologist that he is mentally competent to stand trial. But still at issue: whether Abbott was mentally capable of forming the intent to kill at the time of the crime.
Court records show Abbott has a lifelong history of mental illness and physical and sexual child abuse. He has spent time in several mental hospitals in Gadsden and been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia as well as substance abuse.
His access to treatment and medication over the years has reportedly been sporadic. However, his attorney says since he's been in jail for this charge, abbot has received medication and so that has helped to keep him mentally stable.
Now that the courts have ruled on his competency to stand trial, it will now be left up to a jury to decide what his mental standing in March 2009. Abbott's trial is set for August 23rd. The state is seeking the death penalty.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A Jefferson County judge has declared Scott Lamar Abbott mentally competent to stand trial.
That decision came Wednesday after a hearing was held to determine if Abbott is capable of participating in his defense.
Abbott is accused of killing four people at a Hueytown home in March 2009. The victims were Nika Sandlin, 24, Jeri Lynn Cole, 27, Joshua Gileo, 26, and William Chad Gilbert, 31.
During Wednesday’s hearing, Dr. Allen Shealy, a clinical psychologist for the defense, agreed with the state’s psychologist that he is mentally competent to stand trial. But still at issue: whether Abbott was mentally capable of forming the intent to kill at the time of the crime.
Court records show Abbott has a lifelong history of mental illness and physical and sexual child abuse. He has spent time in several mental hospitals in Gadsden and been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia as well as substance abuse.
His access to treatment and medication over the years has reportedly been sporadic. However, his attorney says since he's been in jail for this charge, abbot has received medication and so that has helped to keep him mentally stable.
Now that the courts have ruled on his competency to stand trial, it will now be left up to a jury to decide what his mental standing in March 2009. Abbott's trial is set for August 23rd. The state is seeking the death penalty.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Calera fastest growing city in Alabama
By Melanie Posey
CALERA, AL (WBRC) - It appears people are moving to one Shelby County town in record numbers.
Calera Mayor Jon Graham says, according to Census data, the town grew 219 percent between 2000 and 2009. Graham says the growth is mainly due to young families with children moving to the town.
And while he sees it as a good thing, he also says the growth brings great responsibility of increasing public services.
Graham says he has contacted Shelby County school officials and requested an intermediate school be built to accommodate the growth. He says school officials are receptive to the idea.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
CALERA, AL (WBRC) - It appears people are moving to one Shelby County town in record numbers.
Calera Mayor Jon Graham says, according to Census data, the town grew 219 percent between 2000 and 2009. Graham says the growth is mainly due to young families with children moving to the town.
And while he sees it as a good thing, he also says the growth brings great responsibility of increasing public services.
Graham says he has contacted Shelby County school officials and requested an intermediate school be built to accommodate the growth. He says school officials are receptive to the idea.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Byrne, Bentley square off in debate
By Alan Collins
ONEONTA, AL (WBRC) - The two men seeking the Republican nomination for governor squared off Wednesday for the very first time.
Robert Bentley and Bradley Bryne addressed almost 200 people at the Blount County Oneonta Chamber of Commerce breakfast. The men agreed on most issues: the state is facing tough economic times, they pledge no new taxes, oppose illegal immigration and the state needs to create new jobs.
Both also opposed expanding gambling but differed on a vote on the issue.
"I'm totally opposed to all types of gambling," Byrne said. "I'm opposed to a referendum on gambling which is something they tried to push through the legislation the last session."
But Bentley is open to a vote.
"I believe the Christian people of Alabama," Bentley said. "I have faith in them, we could vote that down and get rid of all gambling in the state of Alabama."
Both candidates also vowed to try and clean up corruption in state government.
"We are going to find the best people to serve in Montgomery. We are going to clean house in Montgomery," Bentley said.
"We are going to call a special session of the legislature to pass comprehensive ethics bills that need to clean up state government," Bryne said.
Did the candidates hit on the issues the voters wanted to hear?
"Ethics... I think they need to clean up Montgomery," Bill Newman said.
"More jobs... people back to work and cleaning up the state," Penny Deaton said.
During the debate, Bentley renewed his pledge not to run negative campaign ads against Bryne, drawing a standing ovation from the crowd.
"That tells me people don't want negative ads," Bentley said. "They want issues discussed. They want to know what we are going to do. They don't want us talking about each other."
Last weekend, the Bryne campaign began running attack ads accusing Bentley of allowing teachers who break the law to continue to get state benefits and of not supporting efforts to block lawmakers from double dipping with taxpayer paychecks.
"Dr. Bentley has a track record of voting right down the line with Paul Hubbard and the democratic leaders in Alabama," Bryne said.
Bentley says Bryne is distorting his record.
While Bentley is pledging not to attack the former Alabama two-year college chancellor, Byrne is expected to be attacked by the Alabama Education Association because of his criticism of the teacher’s union.
"I've asked no one to attack my opponent," Bentley said. "I would encourage people not to do that. I don't want that."
Despite the crowd’s favorable reaction to the no negative campaign ads, Bryne says he will continue to be on the offensive.
"We are going to put out information so people will decide is that the vote we want our governor to have or governor not to have," Bryne said.
The two candidates will again meet in a Friday debate in Birmingham at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center sponsored by the Alabama Young Republicans. The event starts at 7:00 p.m and the debate starts at 8:30 p.m. The runoff is set for July 13th, and the winner of the runoff will face Ron Sparks in the general election in November.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
ONEONTA, AL (WBRC) - The two men seeking the Republican nomination for governor squared off Wednesday for the very first time.
Robert Bentley and Bradley Bryne addressed almost 200 people at the Blount County Oneonta Chamber of Commerce breakfast. The men agreed on most issues: the state is facing tough economic times, they pledge no new taxes, oppose illegal immigration and the state needs to create new jobs.
Both also opposed expanding gambling but differed on a vote on the issue.
"I'm totally opposed to all types of gambling," Byrne said. "I'm opposed to a referendum on gambling which is something they tried to push through the legislation the last session."
But Bentley is open to a vote.
"I believe the Christian people of Alabama," Bentley said. "I have faith in them, we could vote that down and get rid of all gambling in the state of Alabama."
Both candidates also vowed to try and clean up corruption in state government.
"We are going to find the best people to serve in Montgomery. We are going to clean house in Montgomery," Bentley said.
"We are going to call a special session of the legislature to pass comprehensive ethics bills that need to clean up state government," Bryne said.
Did the candidates hit on the issues the voters wanted to hear?
"Ethics... I think they need to clean up Montgomery," Bill Newman said.
"More jobs... people back to work and cleaning up the state," Penny Deaton said.
During the debate, Bentley renewed his pledge not to run negative campaign ads against Bryne, drawing a standing ovation from the crowd.
"That tells me people don't want negative ads," Bentley said. "They want issues discussed. They want to know what we are going to do. They don't want us talking about each other."
Last weekend, the Bryne campaign began running attack ads accusing Bentley of allowing teachers who break the law to continue to get state benefits and of not supporting efforts to block lawmakers from double dipping with taxpayer paychecks.
"Dr. Bentley has a track record of voting right down the line with Paul Hubbard and the democratic leaders in Alabama," Bryne said.
Bentley says Bryne is distorting his record.
While Bentley is pledging not to attack the former Alabama two-year college chancellor, Byrne is expected to be attacked by the Alabama Education Association because of his criticism of the teacher’s union.
"I've asked no one to attack my opponent," Bentley said. "I would encourage people not to do that. I don't want that."
Despite the crowd’s favorable reaction to the no negative campaign ads, Bryne says he will continue to be on the offensive.
"We are going to put out information so people will decide is that the vote we want our governor to have or governor not to have," Bryne said.
The two candidates will again meet in a Friday debate in Birmingham at the Cahaba Grand Conference Center sponsored by the Alabama Young Republicans. The event starts at 7:00 p.m and the debate starts at 8:30 p.m. The runoff is set for July 13th, and the winner of the runoff will face Ron Sparks in the general election in November.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
McCalla man pleads guilty to child porn charges
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A McCalla man has admitted to possessing hundreds of pictures of child pornography, federal prosecutors said Tuesday.
Eric Sean Frierson, 36, pleaded guilty to the charges, said U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance in a statement Tuesday evening to FOX6 News. Vance said Frierson admitted that, from about January 2005 to February 2009, he used the Internet to receive or possess more than 600 images of child pornography. Some of those images depicted children younger than 5 years old engaged in sexually explicit conduct with adult males.
"Any person who uses the Internet, or any means, to collect images of children being raped needs to be behind bars," Vance said in the statement. "People who view those kind of unspeakable images support an illicit industry that can only survive on the horrible abuse and exploitation of children. We will always prosecute these cases."
Vance said U.S. District Judge R. David Proctor ordered Frierson into custody Tuesday after accepting the guilty pleas.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Eric Sean Frierson, 36, pleaded guilty to the charges, said U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance in a statement Tuesday evening to FOX6 News. Vance said Frierson admitted that, from about January 2005 to February 2009, he used the Internet to receive or possess more than 600 images of child pornography. Some of those images depicted children younger than 5 years old engaged in sexually explicit conduct with adult males.
"Any person who uses the Internet, or any means, to collect images of children being raped needs to be behind bars," Vance said in the statement. "People who view those kind of unspeakable images support an illicit industry that can only survive on the horrible abuse and exploitation of children. We will always prosecute these cases."
Vance said U.S. District Judge R. David Proctor ordered Frierson into custody Tuesday after accepting the guilty pleas.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BCRI’s Pijeaux confirmed to National Museum and Library Services Board
WASHINGTON, D.C. (WBRC) – The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute’s President and CEO can now add another position to his list of titles.
The Senate confirmed Dr. Lawrence J. Pijeaux and four other individuals to serve on the National Museum and Library Services Board.
The National Museum and Library Services Board advises the Institute of Museum and Library on general practices and selections for the National Medal for Museum and Library Service.
“Our nation’s museums and public libraries are vital community resources that are more relevant than ever in this time of profound learning change. The new members’experience and know-how will be invaluable to IMLS in its mission to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas,” says IMLS Acting Director Marsha L. Semmel.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The Senate confirmed Dr. Lawrence J. Pijeaux and four other individuals to serve on the National Museum and Library Services Board.
The National Museum and Library Services Board advises the Institute of Museum and Library on general practices and selections for the National Medal for Museum and Library Service.
“Our nation’s museums and public libraries are vital community resources that are more relevant than ever in this time of profound learning change. The new members’experience and know-how will be invaluable to IMLS in its mission to create strong libraries and museums that connect people to information and ideas,” says IMLS Acting Director Marsha L. Semmel.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham woman pleads guilty to child porn charges
HUNTSVILLE, AL (WBRC) – A Birmingham woman has pleaded guilty in federal court on Wednesday to charges of transporting and possessing child pornography.
46-year-old Lisa Michelle Runyan entered the pleas before U.S. District Judge Lynwood Smith, Jr.
The charges stem from when Runyan says she took photographs in Georgia of a pre-teen girl in 2007. The photographs were stored in a laptop computer that Runyan owned in 2009.
Runyan faces a minimum of 5 years in prison for the transportation charge. Both charges carry a maximum fine of $250,000. Runyan will also have to register as a sex offender if convicted.
“Once again an adult has chosen to exploit, rather than protect an innocent child,” U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance said. “Prosecuting the crime and holding the violator accountable is the step we must take to help the victim heal and to reinforce that our society will not tolerate the abuse and exploitation of children.”
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
46-year-old Lisa Michelle Runyan entered the pleas before U.S. District Judge Lynwood Smith, Jr.
The charges stem from when Runyan says she took photographs in Georgia of a pre-teen girl in 2007. The photographs were stored in a laptop computer that Runyan owned in 2009.
Runyan faces a minimum of 5 years in prison for the transportation charge. Both charges carry a maximum fine of $250,000. Runyan will also have to register as a sex offender if convicted.
“Once again an adult has chosen to exploit, rather than protect an innocent child,” U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance said. “Prosecuting the crime and holding the violator accountable is the step we must take to help the victim heal and to reinforce that our society will not tolerate the abuse and exploitation of children.”
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Pelham man will go to trial for wife's murder
PELHAM, AL (WBRC) - The case of an elderly Pelham man accused of killing his wife is heading to a grand jury.
A judge waived a preliminary hearing today for 84-year-old William Proctor.
Investigators say proctor stabbed his 77-year-old wife to death in their home in the Ballantrae neighborhood.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
A judge waived a preliminary hearing today for 84-year-old William Proctor.
Investigators say proctor stabbed his 77-year-old wife to death in their home in the Ballantrae neighborhood.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Two people shot at Birmingham Waffle House
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham detectives are still trying to determine what caused two people to be shot overnight at a Waffle House in Southside.
It happened Tuesday night at the Waffle House on 11th Street South near the UAB campus.
Police say two people were shot, but their injuries were not life threatening.
Investigators took a suspect in custody, but there is no word of any charges.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
It happened Tuesday night at the Waffle House on 11th Street South near the UAB campus.
Police say two people were shot, but their injuries were not life threatening.
Investigators took a suspect in custody, but there is no word of any charges.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Toddler starves to death, coroner rules homicide
GARDENDALE, AL (WBRC) - Police are investigating the murder of a toddler after the coroner says he starved to death.
16-month-old Justin Stockton died in April at his home in Gardendale.
The Jefferson County Coroner says the child died of severe malnutrition and has ruled the death a homicide.
The case is still under investigation and no arrests have been made.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
16-month-old Justin Stockton died in April at his home in Gardendale.
The Jefferson County Coroner says the child died of severe malnutrition and has ruled the death a homicide.
The case is still under investigation and no arrests have been made.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Gadsden bans texting while driving
GADSDEN, AL (WBRC) - Another Alabama city is stepping in where state lawmakers failed to act.
Gadsden city leaders have unanimously passed a ban on texting while driving. The penalties start at $25 and go up to $75.
Lawmakers have considered a statewide ban in the past two legislative sessions, but they have not passed the measure into law.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Gadsden city leaders have unanimously passed a ban on texting while driving. The penalties start at $25 and go up to $75.
Lawmakers have considered a statewide ban in the past two legislative sessions, but they have not passed the measure into law.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham superintendent's small groups causing big stir
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Mixed reactions come from school leaders to an idea from the Birmingham Schools superintendent.
Dr. Craig Witherspoon has proposed a plan to meet with board members in small groups. He wants to discuss possible layoffs.
Dr. Witherspoon tells FOX6 News he thinks the smaller group setting will give board members a better opportunity to ask questions before making a decision. Witherspoon says the district's financial status will likely force cutbacks. He says it is not clear how many positions will be cut.
Some opposed to the idea say Witherspoon is trying to get around the state's open meetings law. “If he wants to be transparent, and be open and get support of public, all business needs to be conducted in public,” says Darryl Traylor with AEA. “Meeting in small groups with board members 2 or 3 at a time, it goes against everything they claim they want to be.”
“Any of those meetings or information shared will make its way to a board meeting, so this is a way so board members are fully informed when they come to a board meeting,” says Witherspoon.
Dr. Witherspoon is still waiting on a response from board members about the possible small group meetings. He said he is hopeful they will iron out dates soon.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Dr. Craig Witherspoon has proposed a plan to meet with board members in small groups. He wants to discuss possible layoffs.
Dr. Witherspoon tells FOX6 News he thinks the smaller group setting will give board members a better opportunity to ask questions before making a decision. Witherspoon says the district's financial status will likely force cutbacks. He says it is not clear how many positions will be cut.
Some opposed to the idea say Witherspoon is trying to get around the state's open meetings law. “If he wants to be transparent, and be open and get support of public, all business needs to be conducted in public,” says Darryl Traylor with AEA. “Meeting in small groups with board members 2 or 3 at a time, it goes against everything they claim they want to be.”
“Any of those meetings or information shared will make its way to a board meeting, so this is a way so board members are fully informed when they come to a board meeting,” says Witherspoon.
Dr. Witherspoon is still waiting on a response from board members about the possible small group meetings. He said he is hopeful they will iron out dates soon.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham out of top 75 largest American cities
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The city of Birmingham has fallen out of the top 75 largest cities in the U.S.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Birmingham lost 12,321 residents between the years 2000 and 2009.
Birmingham is now the '83rd largest’ American city, down from 72 in the year 2000.
Results of the 2010 census will not be released until early next year.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Birmingham lost 12,321 residents between the years 2000 and 2009.
Birmingham is now the '83rd largest’ American city, down from 72 in the year 2000.
Results of the 2010 census will not be released until early next year.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Bingo battle now focused on Greenetrack
GREENE COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - The battle over electronic bingo continues.
Governor Bob Riley's task force on illegal gambling wants the State Supreme Court to strike down an order protecting operations at Greenetrack.
Circuit Judge Eddie Hardaway issued the order on Friday after state troopers went to Greenetrack to inspect the casino's electronic bingo machines. Hardaway scheduled a hearing on the matter for June 28th.
Task force commander John Tyson calls the order a "sham" to protect illegal gambling interests in Greene County.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Governor Bob Riley's task force on illegal gambling wants the State Supreme Court to strike down an order protecting operations at Greenetrack.
Circuit Judge Eddie Hardaway issued the order on Friday after state troopers went to Greenetrack to inspect the casino's electronic bingo machines. Hardaway scheduled a hearing on the matter for June 28th.
Task force commander John Tyson calls the order a "sham" to protect illegal gambling interests in Greene County.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Public speaks about Birmingham Schools' cuts
By Emily Luxen
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Past and future cutbacks in the Birmingham City Schools were the focus of controversy at Tuesday's school board meeting.
Person after person lined up at the Birmingham Board of Education meeting to express their concerns about the termination of Parker High School Principal Dr. Spurgeon Banyard.
"They aren't giving us any reason why they dismissed Dr. Banyard," said Tracey Wooden Sears, "This man had things going on at Parker that we haven't seen in years."
Birmingham Superintendent Dr. Craig Witherspoon's decision to try to meet with board members in small groups to discuss future personnel matters also didn't sit well with some. He sent an email presenting the idea to employees, but opponents said the decision violates the Open Meetings Act.
"If he wants to be transparent, and be open and get support of public then all business needs to be conducted in public," said Darryl Traylor with the AEA, "Meeting in small groups with board members 2 or 3 at a time goes against everything they claim they want to be."
But Dr. Witherspoon said he feels a small group setting would give board members the opportunity to ask questions so they can eventually make the best decision.
"Any of those meetings or information shared will make its way to a board meeting," said Dr. Witherspoon, "So this is a way so board members are fully informed when they come to a board meeting."
Dr. Witherspoon said because of the district's financial status, more tough decision will likely be ahead, and he hopes people throughout the district will be understanding.
"We are moving forward, and I think it is important to remember we want our students to be successful and to move forward," said Dr. Witherspoon.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Past and future cutbacks in the Birmingham City Schools were the focus of controversy at Tuesday's school board meeting.
Person after person lined up at the Birmingham Board of Education meeting to express their concerns about the termination of Parker High School Principal Dr. Spurgeon Banyard.
"They aren't giving us any reason why they dismissed Dr. Banyard," said Tracey Wooden Sears, "This man had things going on at Parker that we haven't seen in years."
Birmingham Superintendent Dr. Craig Witherspoon's decision to try to meet with board members in small groups to discuss future personnel matters also didn't sit well with some. He sent an email presenting the idea to employees, but opponents said the decision violates the Open Meetings Act.
"If he wants to be transparent, and be open and get support of public then all business needs to be conducted in public," said Darryl Traylor with the AEA, "Meeting in small groups with board members 2 or 3 at a time goes against everything they claim they want to be."
But Dr. Witherspoon said he feels a small group setting would give board members the opportunity to ask questions so they can eventually make the best decision.
"Any of those meetings or information shared will make its way to a board meeting," said Dr. Witherspoon, "So this is a way so board members are fully informed when they come to a board meeting."
Dr. Witherspoon said because of the district's financial status, more tough decision will likely be ahead, and he hopes people throughout the district will be understanding.
"We are moving forward, and I think it is important to remember we want our students to be successful and to move forward," said Dr. Witherspoon.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tickets available Wednesday for benefit concert in Gulf Shores
Jimmy Buffett will perform at a free concert in Gulf Shores on July 1st. The show includes Kenny Chesney, The Zac Brown Band, and others.
The performance is in an effort to entice Alabama Gulf Coast tourism during the oil spill crisis.
You can secure your ticket Wednesday at 10am.
Nearly 35,000 tickets are available.
There is a four-ticket limit per person.
Visit the "Seen on TV" section at www.myfoxal.com for more information and ticket requests.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The performance is in an effort to entice Alabama Gulf Coast tourism during the oil spill crisis.
You can secure your ticket Wednesday at 10am.
Nearly 35,000 tickets are available.
There is a four-ticket limit per person.
Visit the "Seen on TV" section at www.myfoxal.com for more information and ticket requests.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
West Alabama city votes for alcohol
FAYETTE, AL (WBRC) - Fayette residents have voted to allow alcohol sales.
Today's vote totaled 995 for, and 706 opposing alcohol sales.
The Fayette City Council will now decide which types of alcohol to allow and where it would be sold.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Today's vote totaled 995 for, and 706 opposing alcohol sales.
The Fayette City Council will now decide which types of alcohol to allow and where it would be sold.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Calhoun Sheriff's Office welcomes new crime fighting tool
By Dixon Hayes
ANNISTON, AL (WBRC) - A new system in the Calhoun County Jail is the first of its kind in Alabama. It scans irises and matches them to a database.
Sheriff Larry Amerson says the new system came online in his office Tuesday. A federal grant pays for the system through the National Sheriff's Association. It's a pilot program involving one other municipality, Los Angeles County, California.
The system involves two cameras--one takes a picture of the person's face, the other photographs his eyes. "It's nothing more than a regular digital photograph," says Sean Mullin, President and CEO of BI2 Technologies, "except that it's a little higher resolution and it runs at high speed."
"You take that picture, you put it in the database, and it takes just a second to take another photo to compare it and see if there's a match," says Sheriff Larry Amerson.
The database is a national database that would also connect Calhoun County to other local agencies.
Amerson says he plans to use the system at first, mostly for his sex offender database. But there are other possibilities as well, including records of children and Alzheimer's patients in case they ever go missing.
Had the department bought this out of its own budget it would've cost $10,000. For another $4,000 they could get field units, which look and function like something Mullin calls "an iPhone on steriods."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
ANNISTON, AL (WBRC) - A new system in the Calhoun County Jail is the first of its kind in Alabama. It scans irises and matches them to a database.
Sheriff Larry Amerson says the new system came online in his office Tuesday. A federal grant pays for the system through the National Sheriff's Association. It's a pilot program involving one other municipality, Los Angeles County, California.
The system involves two cameras--one takes a picture of the person's face, the other photographs his eyes. "It's nothing more than a regular digital photograph," says Sean Mullin, President and CEO of BI2 Technologies, "except that it's a little higher resolution and it runs at high speed."
"You take that picture, you put it in the database, and it takes just a second to take another photo to compare it and see if there's a match," says Sheriff Larry Amerson.
The database is a national database that would also connect Calhoun County to other local agencies.
Amerson says he plans to use the system at first, mostly for his sex offender database. But there are other possibilities as well, including records of children and Alzheimer's patients in case they ever go missing.
Had the department bought this out of its own budget it would've cost $10,000. For another $4,000 they could get field units, which look and function like something Mullin calls "an iPhone on steriods."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Furlough proposal for Birmingham city employees passes
By Ashley Nix
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A proposal to implement four furlough days for Birmingham city employees passed Tuesday afternoon.
The proposal was in place of Mayor William Bell's original plan, which would have cut the pay of city employees by 10 percent.
Tuesday's proposal, which passed by 5-1 vote with one more abstaining, will also leave $738,000 for councilors to designate to libraries, recreation centers, or non-profit agencies.
The council said it will meet again Saturday where it may tweek the proposal. The final plan is expected to be included in the budget proposal, which is set to be approved next week and take effect July 1.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A proposal to implement four furlough days for Birmingham city employees passed Tuesday afternoon.
The proposal was in place of Mayor William Bell's original plan, which would have cut the pay of city employees by 10 percent.
Tuesday's proposal, which passed by 5-1 vote with one more abstaining, will also leave $738,000 for councilors to designate to libraries, recreation centers, or non-profit agencies.
The council said it will meet again Saturday where it may tweek the proposal. The final plan is expected to be included in the budget proposal, which is set to be approved next week and take effect July 1.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Riley, Feinberg outline plans for faster claims
MOBILE, AL (WBRC) - Alabama Gov. Bob Riley and Kenneth Feinberg, the man appointed by President Obama to serve as the Administrator for the Independent Claims Facility for the $20 billion BP escrow fund, said Tuesday they will work quickly to expedite claims associated with the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
Riley and Feinberg talked to reporters in Mobile Tuesday afternoon after discussing the claims process. Riley said he stressed to Feinberg the importance of getting more people to file more claims and get money paid out faster.
"What will make a difference now is having a third party in the claims process," Riley said. "Ken understands how vital this is."
Feinberg said Gov. Riley did a great job of explaining to him the unique problems and solutions people in Alabama face.
"Gov. Riley gave me some valuable advice," Feinberg said. "I learned more than I thought possible."
Last week, President Obama put Feinberg in charge of a new, independent $20 billion escrow fund supplemented by BP. Money from that fund will be used to pay people along the Gulf Coast who have suffered financially as a result of the oil spill.
Riley said Tuesday nearly 20,000 claims had been filed from people in Alabama. He said that was up from nearly 7,000 claims filed just two weeks ago thanks to door-to-door efforts on the coast to help people file claims.
Feinberg said Tuesday he has three goals with the fund: accelerate claims, streamline the claims process, and involve everyone on the state and local level in the process.
"The governor is here to help, and I appreciate that," Feinberg said.
Feinberg said several town hall meetings will be held in the near future to encourage more people to file claims.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Riley and Feinberg talked to reporters in Mobile Tuesday afternoon after discussing the claims process. Riley said he stressed to Feinberg the importance of getting more people to file more claims and get money paid out faster.
"What will make a difference now is having a third party in the claims process," Riley said. "Ken understands how vital this is."
Feinberg said Gov. Riley did a great job of explaining to him the unique problems and solutions people in Alabama face.
"Gov. Riley gave me some valuable advice," Feinberg said. "I learned more than I thought possible."
Last week, President Obama put Feinberg in charge of a new, independent $20 billion escrow fund supplemented by BP. Money from that fund will be used to pay people along the Gulf Coast who have suffered financially as a result of the oil spill.
Riley said Tuesday nearly 20,000 claims had been filed from people in Alabama. He said that was up from nearly 7,000 claims filed just two weeks ago thanks to door-to-door efforts on the coast to help people file claims.
Feinberg said Tuesday he has three goals with the fund: accelerate claims, streamline the claims process, and involve everyone on the state and local level in the process.
"The governor is here to help, and I appreciate that," Feinberg said.
Feinberg said several town hall meetings will be held in the near future to encourage more people to file claims.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Alert issued for missing Birmingham man
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The Alabama Department of Public Safety issued Tuesday a Missing Senior Alert for a missing Birmingham man.
Authorities said Ray Earley, 51, was last seen at his Birmingham home on Monday. They said he has serious medical problems and left home with no money, medication, identification, or mode of travel and may hitch a ride with anyone.
Earley was last seen wearing purple gym shorts with a gold stripe, a dark-colored t-shirt, and white tennis shoes. He is 5'7" tall, weighs 175 lbs., and has a large scar on his stomach.
Anyone that makes contact with Mr. Earley is encouraged to contact the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office at 205-325-1450.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Authorities said Ray Earley, 51, was last seen at his Birmingham home on Monday. They said he has serious medical problems and left home with no money, medication, identification, or mode of travel and may hitch a ride with anyone.
Earley was last seen wearing purple gym shorts with a gold stripe, a dark-colored t-shirt, and white tennis shoes. He is 5'7" tall, weighs 175 lbs., and has a large scar on his stomach.
Anyone that makes contact with Mr. Earley is encouraged to contact the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office at 205-325-1450.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Four-year-old recognized as hero by Jefferson County
By Alan Collins
JEFFERSON COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - A four-year-old Jefferson County boy is being hailed as a hero.
On Tuesday, the Jefferson County Commission passed a resolution honoring Teddy Nelson. On April 2nd of this year, Faye Cooper fell in her driveway in rural West Jefferson County in the Providence community. Cooper has multiple sclerosis and problems with her knees. "I scooted over to the garage door and started calling out, ‘please help me, please help me,’"Cooper said.
Cooper sounded her car alarm, seeking any sort of assistance but no one responded for an hour and half. Teddy was playing in his yard a half mile away. Hearing Cooper, he sought help from his father and older brother. "Get my daddy and Jacob."Teddy said.
"Teddy came into the house, saying ‘Dad, I heard someone yelling out in the woods and some body's car alarm going off.’ I said ‘are you sure?’ We live a long way from anybody."Nelson said.
Eventually Nelson located Cooper, much to her relief. "When I saw them pull in the drive. I looked up and said, ‘thank you, Lord. I know you sent them people to get me up off this floor,’" Nelson said.
Nelson was proud of his young son.”He is quite a good little man. He does what is right in any situation," Nelson said.
Cooper says without Teddy’s help she could have ended up trapped in her driveway for hours if not longer. "Little Teddy Nelson, I love him, he is my hero," Cooper said.
Commissioner Bobby Humphryes, who represents the area where Teddy lives, says he felt the county needed to recognize the four-year-old for his good deed.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
JEFFERSON COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - A four-year-old Jefferson County boy is being hailed as a hero.
On Tuesday, the Jefferson County Commission passed a resolution honoring Teddy Nelson. On April 2nd of this year, Faye Cooper fell in her driveway in rural West Jefferson County in the Providence community. Cooper has multiple sclerosis and problems with her knees. "I scooted over to the garage door and started calling out, ‘please help me, please help me,’"Cooper said.
Cooper sounded her car alarm, seeking any sort of assistance but no one responded for an hour and half. Teddy was playing in his yard a half mile away. Hearing Cooper, he sought help from his father and older brother. "Get my daddy and Jacob."Teddy said.
"Teddy came into the house, saying ‘Dad, I heard someone yelling out in the woods and some body's car alarm going off.’ I said ‘are you sure?’ We live a long way from anybody."Nelson said.
Eventually Nelson located Cooper, much to her relief. "When I saw them pull in the drive. I looked up and said, ‘thank you, Lord. I know you sent them people to get me up off this floor,’" Nelson said.
Nelson was proud of his young son.”He is quite a good little man. He does what is right in any situation," Nelson said.
Cooper says without Teddy’s help she could have ended up trapped in her driveway for hours if not longer. "Little Teddy Nelson, I love him, he is my hero," Cooper said.
Commissioner Bobby Humphryes, who represents the area where Teddy lives, says he felt the county needed to recognize the four-year-old for his good deed.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Three arrested on theft charges in Etowah County
ETOWAH COUNTY, AL (WBRC) – The Etowah County Sheriff’s Office says they have taken an 18-year-old and two juveniles in connection to a burglary in the Ball Play community.
18-year-old Cody Fain has been arrested and charged with one count each of first, second and third degree theft of property. The two juveniles have been charged through family court.
Officers say the trio broke into a shop on Cannon Gap Road on June 5th and stole a 22-caliber rifle, copper wiring, a gold watch, 23 aluminum wheels, 45 car batteries and a chain saw.
Investigator Chad Langdale with the Sheriff’s Office recovered the rifle and returned it to the owner.
Fain has been released on bond.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
18-year-old Cody Fain has been arrested and charged with one count each of first, second and third degree theft of property. The two juveniles have been charged through family court.
Officers say the trio broke into a shop on Cannon Gap Road on June 5th and stole a 22-caliber rifle, copper wiring, a gold watch, 23 aluminum wheels, 45 car batteries and a chain saw.
Investigator Chad Langdale with the Sheriff’s Office recovered the rifle and returned it to the owner.
Fain has been released on bond.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Arrest made in 2008 murder
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – The Birmingham Police Department says they have made an arrest in connection to a 2-year-old murder.
29-year-old Keith Cotton has been charged with the 2008 murder of 28-year-old Andree Frierson. Frierson was killed in a shooting at his residence on 60th Street North.
Cotton is being held in the Jefferson County Jail.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
29-year-old Keith Cotton has been charged with the 2008 murder of 28-year-old Andree Frierson. Frierson was killed in a shooting at his residence on 60th Street North.
Cotton is being held in the Jefferson County Jail.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Fire continues apartment complex's unlucky streak
By Melanie Posey
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – A north Birmingham apartment complex continues to be plagued by troubles.
On Saturday evening, a fire damaged several units of the Uptown Apartment complex in the Norwood community. The Birmingham Chapter of the American Red Cross assisted ten families.
The Uptown Apartments is the same complex where two year old George Amison was killed in 2006. Later that year, the apartment's owners came under scrutiny from the city for failing to keep up repairs.
Then, the following year, another man was killed in the complex's drive.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – A north Birmingham apartment complex continues to be plagued by troubles.
On Saturday evening, a fire damaged several units of the Uptown Apartment complex in the Norwood community. The Birmingham Chapter of the American Red Cross assisted ten families.
The Uptown Apartments is the same complex where two year old George Amison was killed in 2006. Later that year, the apartment's owners came under scrutiny from the city for failing to keep up repairs.
Then, the following year, another man was killed in the complex's drive.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Compromise may avoid 10% pay cuts for Birmingham employees
By Johnathan Hardison
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – Birmingham city employees may not have to take a 10% pay cut thanks to a budget compromise worked up by the city council on Monday night.
It is still preliminary, but the new budget plan would only involve a few furlough days for employees and no across the board salary cuts.
To find the money to avoid the 10% pay cuts for employees that was in Mayor Bell's original budget, the plan supported to by the council members at Monday's meeting would use a combination of sources.
City employees would have 4 unpaid furlough days to take over the course of a year, and the city would take outside agencies that have already been cut by as much as 66% and reduce that funding by another 16% across the board. Match that with taking a combined almost $5 million out of 2 savings funds, and the budget is balanced without major pay cuts.
“That is some good news for our membership and all general employees that the council's coming together and putting up some other ideas instead of a 10% pay cut for all employees,” said Don Baker, leader of the Birmingham Firefighters Association. “Some of the ideas they're proposing may get in your pocket a little bit but it won't affect your pension like across the board 10% cuts.”
The plan also includes $577,000 to use for nonprofits who were left out of the budget completely, or to keep some libraries and rec centers open that have been slated for closure.
For outside agencies already facing major cuts, adding more pain may not be popular, but the council president says it's part of sharing the load.
“We're gonna take that money and give to meals on wheels,” Council President Roderick Royal said. “We're gonna give to Birmingham AIDS outreach, we're going to give to Kid One transport. We're going to give to those agencies that are really necessary in the community that were zeroed out.”
This is all preliminary, and must be approved by both the mayor and the full council.
This latest compromise almost certainly will be tweaked before the council votes on a final budget plan as early as next week.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – Birmingham city employees may not have to take a 10% pay cut thanks to a budget compromise worked up by the city council on Monday night.
It is still preliminary, but the new budget plan would only involve a few furlough days for employees and no across the board salary cuts.
To find the money to avoid the 10% pay cuts for employees that was in Mayor Bell's original budget, the plan supported to by the council members at Monday's meeting would use a combination of sources.
City employees would have 4 unpaid furlough days to take over the course of a year, and the city would take outside agencies that have already been cut by as much as 66% and reduce that funding by another 16% across the board. Match that with taking a combined almost $5 million out of 2 savings funds, and the budget is balanced without major pay cuts.
“That is some good news for our membership and all general employees that the council's coming together and putting up some other ideas instead of a 10% pay cut for all employees,” said Don Baker, leader of the Birmingham Firefighters Association. “Some of the ideas they're proposing may get in your pocket a little bit but it won't affect your pension like across the board 10% cuts.”
The plan also includes $577,000 to use for nonprofits who were left out of the budget completely, or to keep some libraries and rec centers open that have been slated for closure.
For outside agencies already facing major cuts, adding more pain may not be popular, but the council president says it's part of sharing the load.
“We're gonna take that money and give to meals on wheels,” Council President Roderick Royal said. “We're gonna give to Birmingham AIDS outreach, we're going to give to Kid One transport. We're going to give to those agencies that are really necessary in the community that were zeroed out.”
This is all preliminary, and must be approved by both the mayor and the full council.
This latest compromise almost certainly will be tweaked before the council votes on a final budget plan as early as next week.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Council presents alternative to city salary cuts
By Jonathan Hardison
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham city employees may not have to take a 10% pay cut thanks to a budget compromise worked up by the city council Monday. Though still preliminary, the new budget plan would only involve a few furlough days for employees and no salary cuts.
To find the money to avoid the 10% pay cuts for employees that was in Mayor Bell's original budget, the plan supported by the council members at Monday's meeting would use a combination of sources.
City employees would have 4 unpaid furlough days to take over the course of a year, and the city would take outside agencies that have already been cut by as much as 66% and reduce that funding by another 16% across the board. Match that with taking a combined almost $5 million out of 2 savings funds, and the budget is balanced without major pay cuts.
"That is some good news for our membership and all general employees that the council's coming together and putting up some other ideas instead of a 10% pay cut for all employees, said Don Baker, leader of the Birmingham Firefighters Association. "Some of the ideas they're proposing may get in your pocket a little bit but it won't affect your pension like across the board 10% cuts."
The plan also includes $577,000 to use for non-profits who were left out of the budget completely, or to keep some libraries and recreation centers open that have been slated for closure.
For outside agencies already facing major cuts, adding more pain may not be popular, but the council president says it's part of sharing the load.
"We're gonna take that money and give to meals on wheels," Council President Roderick Royal said. "We're gonna give to Birmingham AIDS outreach, we're going to give to Kid One transport. We're going to give to those agencies that are really necessary in the community that were zeroed out."
This is all preliminary, and must be approved by both the mayor and the full council.
This latest compromise almost certainly will be tweaked before the council votes on a final budget plan as early as next week.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham city employees may not have to take a 10% pay cut thanks to a budget compromise worked up by the city council Monday. Though still preliminary, the new budget plan would only involve a few furlough days for employees and no salary cuts.
To find the money to avoid the 10% pay cuts for employees that was in Mayor Bell's original budget, the plan supported by the council members at Monday's meeting would use a combination of sources.
City employees would have 4 unpaid furlough days to take over the course of a year, and the city would take outside agencies that have already been cut by as much as 66% and reduce that funding by another 16% across the board. Match that with taking a combined almost $5 million out of 2 savings funds, and the budget is balanced without major pay cuts.
"That is some good news for our membership and all general employees that the council's coming together and putting up some other ideas instead of a 10% pay cut for all employees, said Don Baker, leader of the Birmingham Firefighters Association. "Some of the ideas they're proposing may get in your pocket a little bit but it won't affect your pension like across the board 10% cuts."
The plan also includes $577,000 to use for non-profits who were left out of the budget completely, or to keep some libraries and recreation centers open that have been slated for closure.
For outside agencies already facing major cuts, adding more pain may not be popular, but the council president says it's part of sharing the load.
"We're gonna take that money and give to meals on wheels," Council President Roderick Royal said. "We're gonna give to Birmingham AIDS outreach, we're going to give to Kid One transport. We're going to give to those agencies that are really necessary in the community that were zeroed out."
This is all preliminary, and must be approved by both the mayor and the full council.
This latest compromise almost certainly will be tweaked before the council votes on a final budget plan as early as next week.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jefferson County special election set for Tuesday
By Melanie Posey
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Tuesday, voters in Jefferson County's district one will head to the polls.
They'll vote in the special election runoff that will determine who fills the remainder of William Bell's term. Voters will decide between General George Bowman and Birmingham City Councilor Johnathan Austin.
"I've got the background, knowledge and education to do the job that's required," Bowman said Monday with less than 24 hours from the election. "We've got some big decisions to make and we don't need a novice making those decisions."
But Austin says he has what it takes to do the job and that the commission needs new blood. "What the citizens want and need is someone who is from this community and someone who has an intimate appreciation that affects us here in this community," Austin said.
Both men will square off again in the July 13th runoff election. That election will determine who will be the Democratic Nominee for the commission seat in the general November election.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Tuesday, voters in Jefferson County's district one will head to the polls.
They'll vote in the special election runoff that will determine who fills the remainder of William Bell's term. Voters will decide between General George Bowman and Birmingham City Councilor Johnathan Austin.
"I've got the background, knowledge and education to do the job that's required," Bowman said Monday with less than 24 hours from the election. "We've got some big decisions to make and we don't need a novice making those decisions."
But Austin says he has what it takes to do the job and that the commission needs new blood. "What the citizens want and need is someone who is from this community and someone who has an intimate appreciation that affects us here in this community," Austin said.
Both men will square off again in the July 13th runoff election. That election will determine who will be the Democratic Nominee for the commission seat in the general November election.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tim James drops out of race for governor
Tim James drops out of race for governor
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - Tim James has decided to end his bid to become the Republican candidate for governor of Alabama, clearing the way for Bradley Byrne and Robert Bentley to square off in a runoff for the nomination next month.
James announced the decision in a news conference in Montgomery Monday afternoon.
"This is just the way the ball bounced," James said.
James finished third in the Republican primary earlier this month, less than 300 votes behind Bentley. He challenged the results and paid for a statewide recount last week, but after counting the votes, James remained in third place, 270 votes behind Bentley.
"Unfortunately, it didn't change the outcome," James said. "I had no choice but to ask for a recount. We had to know for sure."
Byrne and Bentley will face each other in a runoff on July 13. James refused to offer support for either candidate, saying instead he was focusing on closing down his campaign offices and getting some rest.
I wish them the very best going forward," James said. "This is a very important time in Alabama."
The winner will face Ron Sparks in the general election in November.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - Tim James has decided to end his bid to become the Republican candidate for governor of Alabama, clearing the way for Bradley Byrne and Robert Bentley to square off in a runoff for the nomination next month.
James announced the decision in a news conference in Montgomery Monday afternoon.
"This is just the way the ball bounced," James said.
James finished third in the Republican primary earlier this month, less than 300 votes behind Bentley. He challenged the results and paid for a statewide recount last week, but after counting the votes, James remained in third place, 270 votes behind Bentley.
"Unfortunately, it didn't change the outcome," James said. "I had no choice but to ask for a recount. We had to know for sure."
Byrne and Bentley will face each other in a runoff on July 13. James refused to offer support for either candidate, saying instead he was focusing on closing down his campaign offices and getting some rest.
I wish them the very best going forward," James said. "This is a very important time in Alabama."
The winner will face Ron Sparks in the general election in November.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Chick-Fil-A loses Five Points South appeal
By Ashley Nix
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Chick-Fil-A lost Monday its appeal to open a restaurant in the busy Five Points South district in Birmingham.
Chick-Fil-A had asked the city to reconsider a decision by the city's Design Review Committee denying the restaurant a plan to open a location in the former Ruby Tuesday building at the corner of Highland Ave. and 20th Street South. However, the appeal committe on Monday unanimously upheld the Design Review Committee's decision, denying the application.
The Design Review Committee initially denied the application because it said a Chick-Fil-A restaurant, with a drive-thru, did not fit the Five Points South area and would cause tremendous traffic problems.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Chick-Fil-A lost Monday its appeal to open a restaurant in the busy Five Points South district in Birmingham.
Chick-Fil-A had asked the city to reconsider a decision by the city's Design Review Committee denying the restaurant a plan to open a location in the former Ruby Tuesday building at the corner of Highland Ave. and 20th Street South. However, the appeal committe on Monday unanimously upheld the Design Review Committee's decision, denying the application.
The Design Review Committee initially denied the application because it said a Chick-Fil-A restaurant, with a drive-thru, did not fit the Five Points South area and would cause tremendous traffic problems.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Bentley promises to continue positive campaigning
COLUMBIANA, AL (WBRC) – Dr. Robert Bentley says he will continue the use of positive advertising in his campaign for the governor’s seat.
In a press conference on Monday in his birthplace of Columbiana, Bentley stated that he would stick with positive campaign ads despite his opponent running attack ads.
Over the weekend, Bentley’s opponent in the Republican primary runoff, Bradley Byrne, began a new series of advertisements attacking Bentley. Bentley says the ads are “misleading.”
Later on Monday, candidate Tim James is planned to hold a press conference. James fell 270 votes behind Bentley after a recount of the votes in the Republican primary was held. Some Republicans are speculating that James will concede.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
In a press conference on Monday in his birthplace of Columbiana, Bentley stated that he would stick with positive campaign ads despite his opponent running attack ads.
Over the weekend, Bentley’s opponent in the Republican primary runoff, Bradley Byrne, began a new series of advertisements attacking Bentley. Bentley says the ads are “misleading.”
Later on Monday, candidate Tim James is planned to hold a press conference. James fell 270 votes behind Bentley after a recount of the votes in the Republican primary was held. Some Republicans are speculating that James will concede.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Cross country trip begins for Birmingham duo
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Two Birmingham businessmen began their cross country journey on Monday in a modified muscle car. Their message is reduced reliance on foreign oil through compressed natural gas. Mark McConville and Keith Barfield converted a 1966 Pontiac GTO to run on the fuel.
On Monday morning, they left the Magic City on a trip down Route 66.
A gallon of CNG costs about half what a gallon of gasoline cost, burns 80% cleaner and there is a lot of it right here in America.
Of course there are only a select few stations that sell compressed natural gas, so the crew will include a fueling truck to follow the GTO wherever it goes.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
On Monday morning, they left the Magic City on a trip down Route 66.
A gallon of CNG costs about half what a gallon of gasoline cost, burns 80% cleaner and there is a lot of it right here in America.
Of course there are only a select few stations that sell compressed natural gas, so the crew will include a fueling truck to follow the GTO wherever it goes.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jimmy Buffett holds concert to benefit the gulf
GULF SHORES, AL (WBRC) - One big event happening in a little more than a week is a free concert with Jimmy Buffett.
The concert is set for July first in Gulf Shores and if you cannot make the trip, the benefit will be broadcast live on CMT. Buffett will perform with Kenny Chesney, the Zac Brown Band and other artists.
A special souvenir t-shirt will be designed for the concert and be available online and at the show.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The concert is set for July first in Gulf Shores and if you cannot make the trip, the benefit will be broadcast live on CMT. Buffett will perform with Kenny Chesney, the Zac Brown Band and other artists.
A special souvenir t-shirt will be designed for the concert and be available online and at the show.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tim James to hold news conference over recount
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - GOP candidate Tim James will hold a news conference on Monday to talk about the Republican primary recount results.
The June 1st primary election showed James just 167 votes shy of second place finisher Robert Bentley. James commissioned a recount in all 67 counties and the state Republican Party says Bentley gained more than 100 votes in the recount. That means Bentley will face Bradley Byrne in the July 13th runoff election.
Still, election experts say James could take his case to court.
Robert Bentley also has a news conference Monday at noon in Columbiana.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The June 1st primary election showed James just 167 votes shy of second place finisher Robert Bentley. James commissioned a recount in all 67 counties and the state Republican Party says Bentley gained more than 100 votes in the recount. That means Bentley will face Bradley Byrne in the July 13th runoff election.
Still, election experts say James could take his case to court.
Robert Bentley also has a news conference Monday at noon in Columbiana.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham City Council to meet with Mayor Bell for a budget compromise
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – The city council is set to meet with Mayor William bell's staff to try and hammer out a budget compromise.
Mayor Bell wants to cut salaries 4% and cut holiday pay. However, city councilors want to use furlough days and city reserve funds.
They have to come up with a compromise fast; the new budget takes effect July first.
Today’s meeting comes just days after ten city employees were let go as part of Mayor Bell's cost-cutting plan.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Mayor Bell wants to cut salaries 4% and cut holiday pay. However, city councilors want to use furlough days and city reserve funds.
They have to come up with a compromise fast; the new budget takes effect July first.
Today’s meeting comes just days after ten city employees were let go as part of Mayor Bell's cost-cutting plan.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jeffco voters return to polls on Tuesday
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – The first of several runoff elections will bring voters to the polls in Jefferson County Tuesday.
Birmingham City Councilman Johnathan Austin and former County Commissioner George Bowman are squaring off in a runoff to see who will fill Mayor William Bell's former seat on the Jefferson County Commission in District 1. The winner stays on until November. Then, in two weeks, the same two candidates will meet in the Democratic Party runoff to fill the seat for the next four years.
One issue where both men agree is they are opposed to the sale of the county nursing home.
"The county has moral responsibility, a written responsibility to take care of the indigent, to provide healthcare for the indigent," says Bowman
“We have to fight to keep Cooper Green Hospital open to the public. We have to fight to keep the nursing home open. We have to make sure as commissioners we work together. We have to get on the same page to solve the sewer crisis,” said Austin.
Both Austin and Bowman also promise to bring fresh ideas to the challenge of fixing the county's $3.2 billion sewer crisis that still threatens to push the sewer system into bankruptcy.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham City Councilman Johnathan Austin and former County Commissioner George Bowman are squaring off in a runoff to see who will fill Mayor William Bell's former seat on the Jefferson County Commission in District 1. The winner stays on until November. Then, in two weeks, the same two candidates will meet in the Democratic Party runoff to fill the seat for the next four years.
One issue where both men agree is they are opposed to the sale of the county nursing home.
"The county has moral responsibility, a written responsibility to take care of the indigent, to provide healthcare for the indigent," says Bowman
“We have to fight to keep Cooper Green Hospital open to the public. We have to fight to keep the nursing home open. We have to make sure as commissioners we work together. We have to get on the same page to solve the sewer crisis,” said Austin.
Both Austin and Bowman also promise to bring fresh ideas to the challenge of fixing the county's $3.2 billion sewer crisis that still threatens to push the sewer system into bankruptcy.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Chick-fil-A to to get decision on Five Points appeal
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – Chick-fil-A will find out today if the restaurant won its appeal to open a store in Birmingham’s Five Points South. The project was originally denied by the city's design review committee, but Chick-fil-A appealed.
Committee members have voiced concerns about traffic, parking and the design of the building. Chick-fil-A says its willing to change the design.
"As you heard the chairman of the board say, there are 9 distinctly different architectural styles in the area...so take your pick," says Chick-fil-A attorney Charlie Beavers.
If Chick-fil-A wins the appeal, they will have to present a new design to the review committee.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Committee members have voiced concerns about traffic, parking and the design of the building. Chick-fil-A says its willing to change the design.
"As you heard the chairman of the board say, there are 9 distinctly different architectural styles in the area...so take your pick," says Chick-fil-A attorney Charlie Beavers.
If Chick-fil-A wins the appeal, they will have to present a new design to the review committee.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Top officials head to the coast
GULF SHORES, AL (WBRC) - Some of the state's top elected officials spent their weekend visiting the Gulf Coast.
Alabama Senator Richard Shelby met with local officials, fishermen and BP to get an update on the latest cleanup efforts.
Meanwhile, Governor Bob Riley took some of his own advice and brought his family down to the gulf for a Father's Day weekend vacation. “I just want to encourage people to come on down, enjoy this place. It truly is almost a magical place,” said Riley
The state is planning a major push in the coming days to lure visitors to the coast. Officials estimate business is off by half because of the oil spill.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Alabama Senator Richard Shelby met with local officials, fishermen and BP to get an update on the latest cleanup efforts.
Meanwhile, Governor Bob Riley took some of his own advice and brought his family down to the gulf for a Father's Day weekend vacation. “I just want to encourage people to come on down, enjoy this place. It truly is almost a magical place,” said Riley
The state is planning a major push in the coming days to lure visitors to the coast. Officials estimate business is off by half because of the oil spill.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Judge denies Tyson's request to inspect Greenetrack
EUTAW, AL (WBRC) - Alabama state troopers were at Greenetrack earlier to talk to management and to inspect their machines, but a judge blocked the troopers' effort.
Troopers arrived just before 5pm.
The leader of the governor's task force on illegal gambling, John Tyson, says they were stopped by an order from Circuit Judge Eddie Hardaway, Jr..
John Tyson was not with the troopers at Greenetrack, though he says he will appeal the order to the Alabama Supreme Court.
Senator Bobby Singleton says the state's public safety director talked with Greenetrack officials.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Troopers arrived just before 5pm.
The leader of the governor's task force on illegal gambling, John Tyson, says they were stopped by an order from Circuit Judge Eddie Hardaway, Jr..
John Tyson was not with the troopers at Greenetrack, though he says he will appeal the order to the Alabama Supreme Court.
Senator Bobby Singleton says the state's public safety director talked with Greenetrack officials.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Colorful way to recognize vets in Talladega County
By Dixon Hayes
SYLACAUGA, AL (WBRC) - A Sylacauga woman is tying hundreds of yellow ribbons to a tree as her way of honoring military veterans.
Ginger Benefield says her youngest son came up with the idea after another son, Donald, joined the Army. Donald Benefield is in Iraq as part of the legendary "Big Red One" headquartered at Fort Riley, Kansas.
She calls the tree "The HOSS Tree."
"Hoss was his nickname," says Benefield. "And it stands for 'Honoring our Soldiers' Services.' It's for anybody who's ever served in any branch of the military, past, present or even delayed entry."
Benefield takes the name of any person who's ever signed up to serve in the armed forces, whether they saw battle or not, and writes each name on a yellow ribbon. She ties the ribbon to a pecan tree. If the person was killed in the line of duty or was a prisoner of war, his or her name is written in red, and the ribbon will include the words "Some Gave All."
On the day FOX6 dropped by, Benefield was writing the name Capt. Kyle Comfort in red ink. Comfort, an Army Ranger and Jacksonville native, was killed in Afganistan earlier this year.
"All you would've had to have done is join the military at any point," Benefield tells us. "I especially like to get Vietnam vets on the tree because they had such a bad deal when they came home."
About 700 names are now on the tree, ranging from people currently serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, to veterans of the War of 1812, to even famous names like Senator John McCain (who got a red POW ribbon) and Elvis Presley.
She takes suggestions by email and her Facebook site among other places.
"The tree doesn't cost anything, it's just my way of dealing with him being gone," she says.
"I want to have this whole tree covered in ribbons before he comes home in December for R & R. And I plan on keeping them on the tree until everybody's babies are home, not just mine."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
SYLACAUGA, AL (WBRC) - A Sylacauga woman is tying hundreds of yellow ribbons to a tree as her way of honoring military veterans.
Ginger Benefield says her youngest son came up with the idea after another son, Donald, joined the Army. Donald Benefield is in Iraq as part of the legendary "Big Red One" headquartered at Fort Riley, Kansas.
She calls the tree "The HOSS Tree."
"Hoss was his nickname," says Benefield. "And it stands for 'Honoring our Soldiers' Services.' It's for anybody who's ever served in any branch of the military, past, present or even delayed entry."
Benefield takes the name of any person who's ever signed up to serve in the armed forces, whether they saw battle or not, and writes each name on a yellow ribbon. She ties the ribbon to a pecan tree. If the person was killed in the line of duty or was a prisoner of war, his or her name is written in red, and the ribbon will include the words "Some Gave All."
On the day FOX6 dropped by, Benefield was writing the name Capt. Kyle Comfort in red ink. Comfort, an Army Ranger and Jacksonville native, was killed in Afganistan earlier this year.
"All you would've had to have done is join the military at any point," Benefield tells us. "I especially like to get Vietnam vets on the tree because they had such a bad deal when they came home."
About 700 names are now on the tree, ranging from people currently serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, to veterans of the War of 1812, to even famous names like Senator John McCain (who got a red POW ribbon) and Elvis Presley.
She takes suggestions by email and her Facebook site among other places.
"The tree doesn't cost anything, it's just my way of dealing with him being gone," she says.
"I want to have this whole tree covered in ribbons before he comes home in December for R & R. And I plan on keeping them on the tree until everybody's babies are home, not just mine."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Man convicted of Fanaei homicide learns his fate
By Melanie Posey
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - One of three men charged with killing UAB student Kayla Fanaei was sentenced in Jefferson County Circuit Court Friday morning. Judge Theresa Pulliam sentenced 21-year old Maurice McCarty to life in prison with the possibility of parole.
It was in the early morning hours of October 8, 2007 when Kayla Fanaei, a UAB Psychology student, was killed while she sitting in her car at a Glen Iris Elementary. Three men were charged with capital murder, including McCarty.
He was tried three times before being found guilty of felony murder in May.
After the sentencing, Fanaei's mother told reporters she was pleased with the results. "Even before we knew who was involved in her death, I always prayed for what the outcome was and we got it and I'm very grateful," Robin Fanaei Groom said.
Defense Attorney Emory Anthony said he had asked the judge for his client to receive a lighter sentence of 25 years. "She made the decision it should be a life sentence with parole so we believe she did what she thinks is right as a judge," Emory continued.
McCarty's sentencing means two of three defendants have now gone through the process.
Gregory Hill pleaded guilty to the crime last year. The third defendant, Alfred Marina, will be tried later this year. But even with Friday's sentence, Fanaei's mother says it does not bring closure. "I think I held out thinking that a verdict, I think I got it confused with her coming back and I expected all of this relief," Fanaei-Groom said fighting tears. "But she's not coming back. And there's not closure to that."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - One of three men charged with killing UAB student Kayla Fanaei was sentenced in Jefferson County Circuit Court Friday morning. Judge Theresa Pulliam sentenced 21-year old Maurice McCarty to life in prison with the possibility of parole.
It was in the early morning hours of October 8, 2007 when Kayla Fanaei, a UAB Psychology student, was killed while she sitting in her car at a Glen Iris Elementary. Three men were charged with capital murder, including McCarty.
He was tried three times before being found guilty of felony murder in May.
After the sentencing, Fanaei's mother told reporters she was pleased with the results. "Even before we knew who was involved in her death, I always prayed for what the outcome was and we got it and I'm very grateful," Robin Fanaei Groom said.
Defense Attorney Emory Anthony said he had asked the judge for his client to receive a lighter sentence of 25 years. "She made the decision it should be a life sentence with parole so we believe she did what she thinks is right as a judge," Emory continued.
McCarty's sentencing means two of three defendants have now gone through the process.
Gregory Hill pleaded guilty to the crime last year. The third defendant, Alfred Marina, will be tried later this year. But even with Friday's sentence, Fanaei's mother says it does not bring closure. "I think I held out thinking that a verdict, I think I got it confused with her coming back and I expected all of this relief," Fanaei-Groom said fighting tears. "But she's not coming back. And there's not closure to that."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Bentley declares victory after recount
By Melanie Posey
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The recount is over and it appears Dr. Robert Bentley, not Tim James, will be in the runoff for the Republican nomination for governor.
When James asked for the re-count, he needed 168 votes to pass Bentley.
The recount shows James is now 270 votes behind Bentley. In a statement, Alabama GOP Chair Mike Hubbard called the recount "an unprecedented challenge" and thanked officials for going "above and beyond to ensure the accuracy and transparency of this recount."
Late this afternoon, Bentley spoke to reporters at his campaign headquarters in Tuscaloosa.
"It's been a long two weeks but today, we'd like to declare victory," Bentley said to a round of applause. He then began looking t the July 13th runoff, reasserting his campaign issues of fighting government intrusion, cleaning up Montgomery, and putting the people of Alabama back to work.
"We're not getting onto our opponent. We'll run a clean campaign. We'll talk about issues that affect the people of Alabama."
Tim James is slated to hold a news conference on Monday at his campaign headquarters in Montgomery.
At that time, he is expected to either concede or announce that he is moving forward in his efforts to further challenge the June 1st vote.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The recount is over and it appears Dr. Robert Bentley, not Tim James, will be in the runoff for the Republican nomination for governor.
When James asked for the re-count, he needed 168 votes to pass Bentley.
The recount shows James is now 270 votes behind Bentley. In a statement, Alabama GOP Chair Mike Hubbard called the recount "an unprecedented challenge" and thanked officials for going "above and beyond to ensure the accuracy and transparency of this recount."
Late this afternoon, Bentley spoke to reporters at his campaign headquarters in Tuscaloosa.
"It's been a long two weeks but today, we'd like to declare victory," Bentley said to a round of applause. He then began looking t the July 13th runoff, reasserting his campaign issues of fighting government intrusion, cleaning up Montgomery, and putting the people of Alabama back to work.
"We're not getting onto our opponent. We'll run a clean campaign. We'll talk about issues that affect the people of Alabama."
Tim James is slated to hold a news conference on Monday at his campaign headquarters in Montgomery.
At that time, he is expected to either concede or announce that he is moving forward in his efforts to further challenge the June 1st vote.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
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