By Sherea Harris
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - It's another huge weekend for Auburn as they chase the SEC title and the National Championship.
There are fans confident about Auburn beating South Carolina this weekend and making it to the title game in Arizona. Some have already made hotel reservations in Glendale as they are confident Auburn will win Saturday and more confident about a National Championship win in January.
A travel agency in Birmingham, The Travel Scene, has received calls from fans ready for the trip to Arizona. The agency promotes a 2-night package.
The co-owner says he's creating a list and will start taking reservations on Monday, that's of course if Auburn wins Saturday.
Greg Wiggins likes Auburn and plans to be in Arizona if Auburn wins Saturday. He said, "I already got my reservations. I'm taking myself and the whole family which is 10 people. "It's an expensive trip but it's well worth it."
Right now, the average price for a ticket to the BCS title game is $710, according to online ticket marketplace Stubhub.
As for the SEC championship game, it's the highest grossing college football game on Stubhub. Fans have shelled out as much as $1,500 for a ticket.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Extradition hearing underway for Gabe Watson in Los Angeles
LOS ANGELES, CA (WBRC) – An extradition hearing is underway on Tuesday for Alabama native Gabe Watson in Los Angeles, California.
Watson has been indicted on capital murder charges in Alabama for the murder of his wife in 2003 on their honeymoon in Australia. He has already served time in Australia after his pleading guilty to manslaughter over there.
It is expected to take 3-5 days for Watson to be returned to Alabama if the extradition is granted.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Storms cause damage across MS, LA
YAZOO, MS (WBRC) - The same system bringing us severe weather here in Alabama caused major problems for folks in Louisiana and Mississippi, Monday night.
In Yazoo County, Mississippi, officials believe a tornado touched down there. There was extensive damage, but there were no reports of injuries. The twister downed trees and power lines.
A deadly tornado damaged the same area just months ago. In April, a twister killed ten people, including three children. That one tornado tore through 15 counties in Mississippi leaving behind a trail of damage.
In Louisiana, several homes were damages by high winds in tiny Atlanta, Louisiana. At least three tornadoes have been reported in Louisiana, including a major tornado in Winn Parrish.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
In Yazoo County, Mississippi, officials believe a tornado touched down there. There was extensive damage, but there were no reports of injuries. The twister downed trees and power lines.
A deadly tornado damaged the same area just months ago. In April, a twister killed ten people, including three children. That one tornado tore through 15 counties in Mississippi leaving behind a trail of damage.
In Louisiana, several homes were damages by high winds in tiny Atlanta, Louisiana. At least three tornadoes have been reported in Louisiana, including a major tornado in Winn Parrish.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
State wanting sales tax from cyber sales
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - If you took advantage of Monday’s cyber deals and you did not pay any sales tax online, it could come back to haunt you.
In Alabama, shoppers are supposed to pay it back to the state. It is called a use tax and it is 4 cents on every dollar, the same as the state sales tax.
A shopper is supposed to declare the money on their state income tax if they do not pay it at the time of purchase. Even department of revenue officials say there really is no penalty if you do not. The tax is specifically earmarked for the state's education trust fund.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
In Alabama, shoppers are supposed to pay it back to the state. It is called a use tax and it is 4 cents on every dollar, the same as the state sales tax.
A shopper is supposed to declare the money on their state income tax if they do not pay it at the time of purchase. Even department of revenue officials say there really is no penalty if you do not. The tax is specifically earmarked for the state's education trust fund.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Hoover looks to fill vacancies at Patton Creek and Galleria
By Emily Luxen
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) - Hoover works to fill empty retail spaces throughout the city.
Patton Creek has several empty spaces and Bromberg has announced its departure from Riverchase Galleria.
Hoover Mayor Tony Petelos said he is concerned about the situation, but he is more optimistic after a busy Black Friday weekend.
"I'm encouraged because the last several months the numbers have been going up slightly," said Mayor Petelos. "We are encouraged the numbers will continue to go up."
Petelos said he is also encouraged by how quickly the city has filled some of the departing big box retailers in Patton Creek with successful new stores like Buy Buy Baby.
"If you have a strong base, and if you have strong big tenants, the smaller tenants will come," said the mayor.
Shoppers said they still like the stores Patton Creek offer and they will keep coming back.
"I really enjoy shopping here," said Lindsey Colvin. "Even though there are stores that have closed, it still has most of my favorite stores, and I love the restaurants."
Petelos didn't discuss specifics of any projects in the works to fill empty spaces, but did say the city is still considering putting a convention center into the old Macy's space at the Galleria. He is hopeful more new stores will come as well.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) - Hoover works to fill empty retail spaces throughout the city.
Patton Creek has several empty spaces and Bromberg has announced its departure from Riverchase Galleria.
Hoover Mayor Tony Petelos said he is concerned about the situation, but he is more optimistic after a busy Black Friday weekend.
"I'm encouraged because the last several months the numbers have been going up slightly," said Mayor Petelos. "We are encouraged the numbers will continue to go up."
Petelos said he is also encouraged by how quickly the city has filled some of the departing big box retailers in Patton Creek with successful new stores like Buy Buy Baby.
"If you have a strong base, and if you have strong big tenants, the smaller tenants will come," said the mayor.
Shoppers said they still like the stores Patton Creek offer and they will keep coming back.
"I really enjoy shopping here," said Lindsey Colvin. "Even though there are stores that have closed, it still has most of my favorite stores, and I love the restaurants."
Petelos didn't discuss specifics of any projects in the works to fill empty spaces, but did say the city is still considering putting a convention center into the old Macy's space at the Galleria. He is hopeful more new stores will come as well.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Great online deals may come again with Christmas' approach
By Jonathan Hardison
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The early numbers from Cyber Monday look promising with online sales running 15% ahead of last year's pace at about 3pm Monday.
But is Monday the best day to buy online if the bottom line is your biggest concern?
Customers and retailers are starting that age-old game of chicken trying to see who blinks first. You might think you can stall until retailers get so desperate on December 23rd that they cut the price. But that may not be your best bet this year.
Samford University business professor Dr. Betsy Holloway says online sales typically peak between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, then they tail off for 2 weeks until they surge again in the last 10 days before Christmas because shoppers are desperate or waiting for the price to go down. But this year, she's expecting retailers to try and keep the momentum from this weekend going by offering big discounts in the next 2 weeks.
"The good retailers see this as a marathon, it's not a 1 or 2-day sprint," Holloway says. "They're looking at the next month."
If you miss out on a big Cyber Monday promotion, Dr. Holloway says there's still reason for hope.
"That depends on supply and demand, really. It's a matter of if that item you're interested in is potentially going to sell out, I would say you're better off buying now, but we know there are deals to be found leading all the way up to Christmas Day. Shoppers have some time yet to find some good deals out there."
Cyber Monday was not the busiest online shopping day when it was first named back in 2005, but it will be this year.
Retailers are expecting to do more than $1 billion dollars in business before midnight Monday, and now, 90% of them are offering some kind of special promotion today.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The early numbers from Cyber Monday look promising with online sales running 15% ahead of last year's pace at about 3pm Monday.
But is Monday the best day to buy online if the bottom line is your biggest concern?
Customers and retailers are starting that age-old game of chicken trying to see who blinks first. You might think you can stall until retailers get so desperate on December 23rd that they cut the price. But that may not be your best bet this year.
Samford University business professor Dr. Betsy Holloway says online sales typically peak between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, then they tail off for 2 weeks until they surge again in the last 10 days before Christmas because shoppers are desperate or waiting for the price to go down. But this year, she's expecting retailers to try and keep the momentum from this weekend going by offering big discounts in the next 2 weeks.
"The good retailers see this as a marathon, it's not a 1 or 2-day sprint," Holloway says. "They're looking at the next month."
If you miss out on a big Cyber Monday promotion, Dr. Holloway says there's still reason for hope.
"That depends on supply and demand, really. It's a matter of if that item you're interested in is potentially going to sell out, I would say you're better off buying now, but we know there are deals to be found leading all the way up to Christmas Day. Shoppers have some time yet to find some good deals out there."
Cyber Monday was not the busiest online shopping day when it was first named back in 2005, but it will be this year.
Retailers are expecting to do more than $1 billion dollars in business before midnight Monday, and now, 90% of them are offering some kind of special promotion today.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
State troopers release numbers from holiday blitz
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - It was a busy holiday weekend for state troopers in Alabama.
Troopers say six deaths were reported on state roads from last Wednesday through Monday night. Five of the deadly crashes were alcohol related. None of the victims were wearing seat belts.
State troopers say they wrote 3,100 speeding tickets and made nearly 150 DUI arrests during the same period as part of the Take Back our Highways Campaign.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Troopers say six deaths were reported on state roads from last Wednesday through Monday night. Five of the deadly crashes were alcohol related. None of the victims were wearing seat belts.
State troopers say they wrote 3,100 speeding tickets and made nearly 150 DUI arrests during the same period as part of the Take Back our Highways Campaign.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Auburn getting ranking respect after Iron Bowl win
AUBURN, AL (WBRC) - Auburn has moved past Oregon to take the number one spot in the BCS standings. The move comes after Friday’s win against Alabama in the Iron Bowl.
The Tigers came from behind to beat the Tide 28 to 27. It was the biggest comeback in Iron Bowl history.
Auburn is now one win away from playing for the National Championship. The Tigers take on South Carolina Saturday in the SEC Championship game in Atlanta.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The Tigers came from behind to beat the Tide 28 to 27. It was the biggest comeback in Iron Bowl history.
Auburn is now one win away from playing for the National Championship. The Tigers take on South Carolina Saturday in the SEC Championship game in Atlanta.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Monitoring the Iron Bowl from work
By Emily Luxen
Birmingham, AL (WBRC) - There were Alabama and Auburn fans who watched the Iron Bowl while balancing work and play.
Birmingham firefighters at Station 3 gathered around their TV to watch the game, but listened to dispatch to make sure they didn't miss any fire calls. They had to rush out several times during the first half, but made the most of it.
"At any moment you will have to go out the door," said Capt. Gene Coleman, "We've got stuff going on through the city everyday, and if the tone goes off or printer goes off, we go out the door."
The crew at the station consisted of an Auburn fan outnumbered by several Alabama fans, which made for some lopsided, but interesting conversation.
"It's been very hostile," said Auburn fan J.D. McCormick, "I'm used to it. I'm used to being out numbered all my life. If you're an Auburn fan in this area that's how it is."
While firefighters say they would rather watch the game at home, they know they often have to make sacrifices because of their jobs.
"All my family is at home watching TV," said Lt. Tommy White. "I would like to be at home with my boy, but these are the next guys I would like to watch it with."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham, AL (WBRC) - There were Alabama and Auburn fans who watched the Iron Bowl while balancing work and play.
Birmingham firefighters at Station 3 gathered around their TV to watch the game, but listened to dispatch to make sure they didn't miss any fire calls. They had to rush out several times during the first half, but made the most of it.
"At any moment you will have to go out the door," said Capt. Gene Coleman, "We've got stuff going on through the city everyday, and if the tone goes off or printer goes off, we go out the door."
The crew at the station consisted of an Auburn fan outnumbered by several Alabama fans, which made for some lopsided, but interesting conversation.
"It's been very hostile," said Auburn fan J.D. McCormick, "I'm used to it. I'm used to being out numbered all my life. If you're an Auburn fan in this area that's how it is."
While firefighters say they would rather watch the game at home, they know they often have to make sacrifices because of their jobs.
"All my family is at home watching TV," said Lt. Tommy White. "I would like to be at home with my boy, but these are the next guys I would like to watch it with."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Alabama Woman "Just Knew" She was to be Kidney Donor
By Melanie Posey
GADSDEN, AL (WBRC) - If you ask Kelley Zeringue, she’ll have no problem telling you. “I do believe in miracles. I do and this is living proof of that."
She’s speaking of the life saving relationship between herself and 24-year-old Matt McCallum. Their story began when they met in May. Matt, who lived in Tennessee was going to work for the cheerleading company Kelley’s husband co-owns in Gadsden. While at a staff retreat, Kelley noticed Matt’s scarred arm and thought it was broken. She later learned he was on dialysis, waiting for a kidney.
“Before we even got home that night in the car, I told my husband...I think I'm a match,” Zeringue recalls. “ And I just knew. I t was amazing.”
The next morning, without Matt’s knowledge, she called his doctors in Tennessee. They immediately warned her that being a match was a long shot.
“But I called them and they let me do the first test and they called and said, that was a match. And I said ‘I know’.” Matt, on the other hand, was a match.
“I almost feel like I don't deserve someone to sacrifice for me,” McCallum said from Tennessee. “I'm a normal guy, nothing special...and that's a lot to give up for someone you don't know."
Matt’s kidney problems began when he was seven. By the time he reached 21, his kidneys had failed. He was a newlywed who was going to dialysis three times a week, working three part time jobs and praying for a miracle. Kelley, he says, was just that.
After four months of tests, they learned Kelley was a perfect match. Now, two weeks after surgery, both are recovering just fine. Matt says he looks forward to buying a house, having kids. Kelley is humbled that she could help.
“It's a blessing. It's a true reward to know you followed through and because of that, someone's going to be able to live a normal life,” Kelley says. “God's blessing me so much more in giving me that opportunity."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Newton leads Auburn to improbable 28-27 win in Iron Bowl
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) - Cam Newton threw for three touchdowns and ran for another, leading No. 2 Auburn back from a 24-point deficit Saturday for a stunning 28-27 victory over No. 9 Alabama that kept the Tigers on course for a shot at the national championship.
Auburn (12-0, 8-0 Southeastern Conference) trailed 21-0 before it even picked up a first down, and Alabama (9-3, 5-3) had a 314-2 lead in total yards at one point in the first half.
But Newton, with the signature performance in what has become a season of controversy, rallied the Tigers for a victory that left the crowd of more than 101,000 in stunned disbelief when it was over. He threw scoring passes of 36 yards to Emory Blake, 70 yards to Terrell Zachery and, finally, a 7-yarder to Philip Lutzenkirchen with 11:55 remaining that gave Auburn its first lead of the day.
(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
Auburn (12-0, 8-0 Southeastern Conference) trailed 21-0 before it even picked up a first down, and Alabama (9-3, 5-3) had a 314-2 lead in total yards at one point in the first half.
But Newton, with the signature performance in what has become a season of controversy, rallied the Tigers for a victory that left the crowd of more than 101,000 in stunned disbelief when it was over. He threw scoring passes of 36 yards to Emory Blake, 70 yards to Terrell Zachery and, finally, a 7-yarder to Philip Lutzenkirchen with 11:55 remaining that gave Auburn its first lead of the day.
(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Theft upgraded to robbery for wanted persons
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) – The Hoover Police Department says two individuals who struggled with and threatened loss prevention officers are now wanted on robbery charges.
According to police, the two attempted to steal merchandise from the Belk store at the Riverchase Galleria. While struggling with loss prevention officers, threats were made towards the officers as they escaped. This was enough to elevate the theft charge to a robbery charge.
The male suspect is between 5’10” and 6’ tall and weighs between 145-160 pounds. He was wearing a jacket with “The Riddler” comic book character on it.
The female suspect is 5’4” to 5’6” and weighs between 150-180 pounds.
They fled the scene in a vehicle believed to be a light blue or silver Mitsubishi Galant.
Anyone with information should contact Detective Todd Henningsen at (205) 444-7534.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
According to police, the two attempted to steal merchandise from the Belk store at the Riverchase Galleria. While struggling with loss prevention officers, threats were made towards the officers as they escaped. This was enough to elevate the theft charge to a robbery charge.
The male suspect is between 5’10” and 6’ tall and weighs between 145-160 pounds. He was wearing a jacket with “The Riddler” comic book character on it.
The female suspect is 5’4” to 5’6” and weighs between 150-180 pounds.
They fled the scene in a vehicle believed to be a light blue or silver Mitsubishi Galant.
Anyone with information should contact Detective Todd Henningsen at (205) 444-7534.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Hoover teen to be laid to rest
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) - A 15-year-old Hoover girl will be laid to rest on Wednesday evening after being killed in a vehicle accident.
Natalie Hurst was killed early Monday morning in a crash on Ross Bridge Parkway. The car she was riding in hit a pole and burned.
The driver of the car, 16-year-old Sydney McLemore, was injured in the crash, but she is expected to survive.
Hurst's visitation is from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. immediately followed by her funeral mass at Prince of Peace Church.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Natalie Hurst was killed early Monday morning in a crash on Ross Bridge Parkway. The car she was riding in hit a pole and burned.
The driver of the car, 16-year-old Sydney McLemore, was injured in the crash, but she is expected to survive.
Hurst's visitation is from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. immediately followed by her funeral mass at Prince of Peace Church.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Man charged with child abuse while awaiting child abuse trial
GADSDEN, AL (WBRC) - A Gadsden man has been charged with child abuse after his step-daughter is admitted to Children's Hospital.
Police say 23-year-old Steven Jackson was out on bond awaiting trial on child abuse charges from two-years ago.
Police say Jackson's five-year-old, Iyana Spencer, has a traumatic brain injury and a lacerated liver. Police say the abuse happened Friday night at a house on Kentucky Avenue in Gadsden. The girl is in critical condition.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Police say 23-year-old Steven Jackson was out on bond awaiting trial on child abuse charges from two-years ago.
Police say Jackson's five-year-old, Iyana Spencer, has a traumatic brain injury and a lacerated liver. Police say the abuse happened Friday night at a house on Kentucky Avenue in Gadsden. The girl is in critical condition.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
National Guard unit makes it home for Thanksgiving
HUNTSVILLE, AL (WBRC) - An Alabama National Guard unit made it home just in time for Thanksgiving this year. About 40 soldiers from the Guard's 441st Ordnance Battalion returned to Huntsville on Wednesday after being stationed in Iraq.
The unit served as the command and control group for five army explosive ordnance disposal companies in Iraq. They also coordinated two Air Force flights performing similar work and they helped train and assist Iraqi security forces dealing with improvised explosive devices.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The unit served as the command and control group for five army explosive ordnance disposal companies in Iraq. They also coordinated two Air Force flights performing similar work and they helped train and assist Iraqi security forces dealing with improvised explosive devices.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Expect busy shopping centers for the rest of the year
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - If you are staying close to home and plan to do shopping, expect heavy traffic near your favorite shopping area.
Beginning Wednesday, extra Birmingham police and security guards will be at The Summit to help things run smoothly. Guards will direct traffic at the main intersection, and police officers will monitor Summit Boulevard using remotes to control traffic signals.
Expect grocery stores to be busy as well. The rush started Tuesday at many area grocery stores.
At the Piggly Wiggly in Mountain Brook, we found folks marking items off their shopping lists. When it comes to the centerpiece of tomorrow's meal, it was a toss up. Some are choosing pre-cooked turkeys. Others are doing it the old-fashion way.
"There is something about the smell he turkey cooking in the house and the excitement of you family anticipation around the table with all the things we wanted to be cook," said shopper Pat Kilpatrick.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Beginning Wednesday, extra Birmingham police and security guards will be at The Summit to help things run smoothly. Guards will direct traffic at the main intersection, and police officers will monitor Summit Boulevard using remotes to control traffic signals.
Expect grocery stores to be busy as well. The rush started Tuesday at many area grocery stores.
At the Piggly Wiggly in Mountain Brook, we found folks marking items off their shopping lists. When it comes to the centerpiece of tomorrow's meal, it was a toss up. Some are choosing pre-cooked turkeys. Others are doing it the old-fashion way.
"There is something about the smell he turkey cooking in the house and the excitement of you family anticipation around the table with all the things we wanted to be cook," said shopper Pat Kilpatrick.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Civil rights activists want no pepper spray at schools
By Emily Luxen
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A debate over Birmingham school resource officers' use of pepper spray to discipline students is heating up.
The Southern Poverty Law Center sent a letter to the Birmingham School Board asking for a ban on the practice. An attorney for the civil rights group said they have received complaints from Birmingham parents and students that officers use mace too often and unnecessarily.
Officials at the SPLC hope the letter will bring about different practices throughout the school district.
"The reality is that mace is never an acceptable form of school punishment," said Ebony Glenn Howard, the attorney for the SPLC, "Schools across the country and in Alabama are dealing with discipline issues and doing it without mace."
Birmingham school resource officers are allowed to use mace to handle discipline issues, but district officials say they don't know how often this happens.
"We just received the letter late Friday," said Afrika Parchman, the Attorney for the Birmingham School Board, "We haven't had a chance to look into accusations, however, we have talked with attorneys from city, and we are looking into it."
Birmingham Superintendent Dr. Craig Witherspoon said he hadn't seen the letter, and could not comment until he reviewed it. The Director of Communications for the city of Birmingham, April Odom, said the Birmingham Police Department and law department also are reviewing the letter and will respond later.
SPLC officials say they hope to work with school district officials to find a better solution. They are asking board officials to respond to the letter by Nov. 29, or a lawsuit will be filed.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A debate over Birmingham school resource officers' use of pepper spray to discipline students is heating up.
The Southern Poverty Law Center sent a letter to the Birmingham School Board asking for a ban on the practice. An attorney for the civil rights group said they have received complaints from Birmingham parents and students that officers use mace too often and unnecessarily.
Officials at the SPLC hope the letter will bring about different practices throughout the school district.
"The reality is that mace is never an acceptable form of school punishment," said Ebony Glenn Howard, the attorney for the SPLC, "Schools across the country and in Alabama are dealing with discipline issues and doing it without mace."
Birmingham school resource officers are allowed to use mace to handle discipline issues, but district officials say they don't know how often this happens.
"We just received the letter late Friday," said Afrika Parchman, the Attorney for the Birmingham School Board, "We haven't had a chance to look into accusations, however, we have talked with attorneys from city, and we are looking into it."
Birmingham Superintendent Dr. Craig Witherspoon said he hadn't seen the letter, and could not comment until he reviewed it. The Director of Communications for the city of Birmingham, April Odom, said the Birmingham Police Department and law department also are reviewing the letter and will respond later.
SPLC officials say they hope to work with school district officials to find a better solution. They are asking board officials to respond to the letter by Nov. 29, or a lawsuit will be filed.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Grocery shoppers getting ready for Thanksgiving
By Alan Collins
MOUNTAIN BROOK, AL (WBRC) - The clock is counting down to Thanksgiving. Grocery stores are seeing last minute shoppers for the big meal.
"I try to tell you. I know that is right.. All those shopping late. You are in long lines." Marshall Preston, a shopper said.
The Mountain Brook Piggly Wiggly was busy Tuesday. Turkeys could be found and cranberry sauce was still on the shelves. One shopper said she has been shopping for the last week getting ready to cook for her family. Pat Kilpatrick says she raised three sons who still count on mom to have a fresh cook turkey on the table.
"There is something about the smell of the turkey cooking in the house and the excitement of your family in anticipation around the table with all the things we wanted to be cook," Pat Kilpatrick said.
In the deli, workers were preparing dressing for 55 to 60 people who had ordered pre-cooked turkeys. Cindy Screven has been picking up Thanksgiving meals for five years.
"It much more fun to be with the family and the this way you know it comes out right. I had raw turkeys. I've had baked biscuits on top and raw on the bottom. This is fool proof," Cindy Screven said.
More pickups were scheduled to take place Wednesday. The store manager urges everyone to be patient.
"We have workers getting them out, getting the orders together." Frank Campbell, PIggly Wiggly Store Manager said.
Shoppers will tell you it's hectic buying a turkey and getting it ready for the big meal, but they will also tell you it's worth it once it's on the table with the family.
"Oh, yes, and you pray some one will do the dishes instead of me," Kilpatrick said.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
MOUNTAIN BROOK, AL (WBRC) - The clock is counting down to Thanksgiving. Grocery stores are seeing last minute shoppers for the big meal.
"I try to tell you. I know that is right.. All those shopping late. You are in long lines." Marshall Preston, a shopper said.
The Mountain Brook Piggly Wiggly was busy Tuesday. Turkeys could be found and cranberry sauce was still on the shelves. One shopper said she has been shopping for the last week getting ready to cook for her family. Pat Kilpatrick says she raised three sons who still count on mom to have a fresh cook turkey on the table.
"There is something about the smell of the turkey cooking in the house and the excitement of your family in anticipation around the table with all the things we wanted to be cook," Pat Kilpatrick said.
In the deli, workers were preparing dressing for 55 to 60 people who had ordered pre-cooked turkeys. Cindy Screven has been picking up Thanksgiving meals for five years.
"It much more fun to be with the family and the this way you know it comes out right. I had raw turkeys. I've had baked biscuits on top and raw on the bottom. This is fool proof," Cindy Screven said.
More pickups were scheduled to take place Wednesday. The store manager urges everyone to be patient.
"We have workers getting them out, getting the orders together." Frank Campbell, PIggly Wiggly Store Manager said.
Shoppers will tell you it's hectic buying a turkey and getting it ready for the big meal, but they will also tell you it's worth it once it's on the table with the family.
"Oh, yes, and you pray some one will do the dishes instead of me," Kilpatrick said.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Disabled riders beg Birmingham for funding
By Ashley Nix
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - More than 10 riders of a non-profit transit service called ClasTran asked Birmingham City Councilors on Tuesday to keep up funding for the service.
Some riders begged councilors to keep the buses running.
"I need to get to work, how else am I gonna get there if y'all cut that out?," said one rider.
"I want help to get where I'm going, said Shelia Blackwell. “But I need y'all to work with me."
Another rider, Bill Crawford, told the audience he didn’t know how he’d get around without it.
"ClasTran is vital to myself and all these people who are in chairs in this room,” said Crawford. “Please consider, don't cut the ClasTran service."
Councilor Carole Smitherman said it wasn’t about numbers for her, rather the people involved.
"My heart,” Smitherman said. “My heart, you touched my heart."
Birmingham only funded ClasTran last year due to the county’s financial burden. This year, though, the seriousness of the funding situation is back. Councilor Kim Rafferty, who’s asking state and federal leaders to step up to the plate, says Birmingham can’t do it alone.
"How can we encourage these folks to be the best they can be and then leave them high and dry when they try to become independent adults?" Rafferty said.
Birmingham will look at it’s funding next month, which is mid-year, to decide if they have enough money to help ClasTran and other non-profits.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - More than 10 riders of a non-profit transit service called ClasTran asked Birmingham City Councilors on Tuesday to keep up funding for the service.
Some riders begged councilors to keep the buses running.
"I need to get to work, how else am I gonna get there if y'all cut that out?," said one rider.
"I want help to get where I'm going, said Shelia Blackwell. “But I need y'all to work with me."
Another rider, Bill Crawford, told the audience he didn’t know how he’d get around without it.
"ClasTran is vital to myself and all these people who are in chairs in this room,” said Crawford. “Please consider, don't cut the ClasTran service."
Councilor Carole Smitherman said it wasn’t about numbers for her, rather the people involved.
"My heart,” Smitherman said. “My heart, you touched my heart."
Birmingham only funded ClasTran last year due to the county’s financial burden. This year, though, the seriousness of the funding situation is back. Councilor Kim Rafferty, who’s asking state and federal leaders to step up to the plate, says Birmingham can’t do it alone.
"How can we encourage these folks to be the best they can be and then leave them high and dry when they try to become independent adults?" Rafferty said.
Birmingham will look at it’s funding next month, which is mid-year, to decide if they have enough money to help ClasTran and other non-profits.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham police name homicide suspect
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – The Birmingham Police Department has charged a suspect in connection to a homicide that happened over the weekend.
32-year-old Jeanetta Harris has been charged with the murder of 52-year-old Jerry Davis.
Davis died at UAB Hospital after being delivered there for treatment of a stab wound.
Harris is being held in the Jefferson County Jail.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
32-year-old Jeanetta Harris has been charged with the murder of 52-year-old Jerry Davis.
Davis died at UAB Hospital after being delivered there for treatment of a stab wound.
Harris is being held in the Jefferson County Jail.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
State troopers begin another "Take Back Our Highways" blitz
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Alabama state troopers begin their campaign to keep the roadways safe.
Troopers will be out for the rest of this week as part of their “Take Back Our Highways” campaign.
Travelers will see more officers patrolling the highways and more tickets being handed out.
Public safety officials say less people have died during the holidays because of these campaigns.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Troopers will be out for the rest of this week as part of their “Take Back Our Highways” campaign.
Travelers will see more officers patrolling the highways and more tickets being handed out.
Public safety officials say less people have died during the holidays because of these campaigns.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jury recommends death penalty for Russell
COLUMBIANA, AL (WBRC) - The Shelby County jury that convicted a man of murder says he should die for his crime.
Ryan Russell is facing life in prison or lethal injection for killing his 11-year-old cousin, Katherine Gillespie.
On Monday, the jury returned a death penalty recommendation.
The judge will get the final say in a sentencing hearing set for December 16th.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Ryan Russell is facing life in prison or lethal injection for killing his 11-year-old cousin, Katherine Gillespie.
On Monday, the jury returned a death penalty recommendation.
The judge will get the final say in a sentencing hearing set for December 16th.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jawbone does not belong to Natalee Holloway
ORANJESTAD, ARUBA (WBRC) – Aruban prosecutors have announced that the jawbone found on the beach in Aruba does not belong to Natalee Holloway.
Investigators said last week that they believed the bone came from a female. It was found earlier this month on the western beach of the island of Aruba.
The bone was sent to Europe for tests, first to determine if it is the bone of a human or an animal. The FBI sent Natalee Holloway's dental records to the Netherlands for comparison.
Testing of the jawbone is now the latest in a series of false leads into the case. It has been more than five years since Natalee Holloway was last seen during a graduation trip to Aruba in 2005.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Investigators said last week that they believed the bone came from a female. It was found earlier this month on the western beach of the island of Aruba.
The bone was sent to Europe for tests, first to determine if it is the bone of a human or an animal. The FBI sent Natalee Holloway's dental records to the Netherlands for comparison.
Testing of the jawbone is now the latest in a series of false leads into the case. It has been more than five years since Natalee Holloway was last seen during a graduation trip to Aruba in 2005.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Two teens killed in early morning accident in Bessemer
BESSEMER, AL (WBRC) – The Bessemer Police Department has confirmed that two teens have died in a vehicle accident in the early hours of Tuesday morning. The accident happened at Carolina Avenue and 24th Street around 4:00 a.m.
Bessemer police say the victims were two teen boys. The driver of the vehicle was 16-years-old. Both boys were found dead on the scene. Speeding is believed to have played a role in the accident.
The identities of the victims are withheld at this moment.
Stay with MyFoxAL.com and FOX6 News for more info on this story as it becomes available.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Bessemer police say the victims were two teen boys. The driver of the vehicle was 16-years-old. Both boys were found dead on the scene. Speeding is believed to have played a role in the accident.
The identities of the victims are withheld at this moment.
Stay with MyFoxAL.com and FOX6 News for more info on this story as it becomes available.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
New developments expected in Holloway investigation
MOUNTAIN BROOK, AL (WBRC) - New developments are expected Tuesday in the disappearance of Natalee Holloway. Aruban prosecutors say they will release the results of tests on a jawbone found on the beach there.
Investigators said last week that they believed the bone came from a female. It was found earlier this month on the western beach of the island of Aruba. The bone was sent to Europe for tests, first to determine if it is the bone of a human or an animal. The FBI sent Natalee Holloway's dental records to the Netherlands for comparison.
An Aruban official says prosecutors will issue a statement today with test results.
It has been more than five years since Natalee Holloway was last seen during a graduation trip to Aruba in 2005.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Investigators said last week that they believed the bone came from a female. It was found earlier this month on the western beach of the island of Aruba. The bone was sent to Europe for tests, first to determine if it is the bone of a human or an animal. The FBI sent Natalee Holloway's dental records to the Netherlands for comparison.
An Aruban official says prosecutors will issue a statement today with test results.
It has been more than five years since Natalee Holloway was last seen during a graduation trip to Aruba in 2005.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Trash collection worker killed on the job in Mountain Brook
MOUNTAIN BROOK, AL (WBRC) - An accident killed a trash collection worker in mountain brook on Monday.
Police say a crew was picking up limbs and leaves in front of a house on Stone River Circle when the garbage truck began backing up, hitting the waste management worker.
The accident is under investigation.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Police say a crew was picking up limbs and leaves in front of a house on Stone River Circle when the garbage truck began backing up, hitting the waste management worker.
The accident is under investigation.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham near the top of most dangerous cities list
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - New rankings put the Birmingham-metro near the top of the nation's most dangerous cities to live in.
Birmingham was ranked the 10th most dangerous city, while the Birmingham-Hoover metro came in number 35 out of 347 areas.
CQ Press based its rankings on population and violent crime rate numbers including murder, rape, robbery, and others.
The CQ Press study ranks Detroit and St. Louis as the most dangerous metro areas.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham was ranked the 10th most dangerous city, while the Birmingham-Hoover metro came in number 35 out of 347 areas.
CQ Press based its rankings on population and violent crime rate numbers including murder, rape, robbery, and others.
The CQ Press study ranks Detroit and St. Louis as the most dangerous metro areas.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Black Friday looks bright for local businesses
By Emily Luxen
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham area businesses are getting an early Christmas surprise in that people are spending money and business is picking up.
Several store owners town saythey see customers that are more willing to spend money. That's exactly what they want to see headed into this holiday shopping season.
At Soca Girl in downtown Homewood, their manager said profits are up, new customers are more common, and people don't seem afraid to spend money.
"We've had a great holiday season so far, and a good fall back-to-school season," said Roni Nuby. "Everything seems great so far, so we're excited about it."
Over in Birmingham's Five Points West, business is also steady. The owner of Urban Stylz, Saleem Noorani, said sales are up 10% from last year. He's predicting a very successful holiday shopping season.
"This year, I see more a positive response from people," said Noorani. "They are trying to get relaxed and concentrate more on shopping and not worrying about money and the economy."
While sales are up, store owners said Black Friday will still be an important day for them. They will continue to run big sales and promotions to attract customers, but this year they are get relying solely on the day to get them back in the black.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham area businesses are getting an early Christmas surprise in that people are spending money and business is picking up.
Several store owners town saythey see customers that are more willing to spend money. That's exactly what they want to see headed into this holiday shopping season.
At Soca Girl in downtown Homewood, their manager said profits are up, new customers are more common, and people don't seem afraid to spend money.
"We've had a great holiday season so far, and a good fall back-to-school season," said Roni Nuby. "Everything seems great so far, so we're excited about it."
Over in Birmingham's Five Points West, business is also steady. The owner of Urban Stylz, Saleem Noorani, said sales are up 10% from last year. He's predicting a very successful holiday shopping season.
"This year, I see more a positive response from people," said Noorani. "They are trying to get relaxed and concentrate more on shopping and not worrying about money and the economy."
While sales are up, store owners said Black Friday will still be an important day for them. They will continue to run big sales and promotions to attract customers, but this year they are get relying solely on the day to get them back in the black.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
15-year-old girl killed in early morning wreck
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) – The Hoover Police Department is reporting one teen dead and another injured after a vehicle collided with a power pole on Monday morning.
The accident happened around 3:24 a.m. on Ross Bridge Parkway near Deer Valley Elementary School. Rescue workers found the driver of the 2008 Mazda 3, a 16-year-old female, outside of the vehicle. She was transported to Children’s Hospital for serious injuries, but is expected to live.
A 15-year-old female was inside the vehicle when authorities reached the scene. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Both girls were in the 10th grade at Hoover High School. Identification of the deceased is being withheld at this time.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The accident happened around 3:24 a.m. on Ross Bridge Parkway near Deer Valley Elementary School. Rescue workers found the driver of the 2008 Mazda 3, a 16-year-old female, outside of the vehicle. She was transported to Children’s Hospital for serious injuries, but is expected to live.
A 15-year-old female was inside the vehicle when authorities reached the scene. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Both girls were in the 10th grade at Hoover High School. Identification of the deceased is being withheld at this time.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Weaver High students mourning loss of fellow student
ANNISTON, AL (WBRC) - Weaver High School students are returning to school after the death of their junior class president.
17-year-old Cody Watson died in a wreck that happened on Quintard Avenue in Anniston just before midnight Friday. He was pronounced dead on the scene just after midnight.
Watson was a front seat passenger in a Nissan Maxima when it crashed into a traffic light pole at the intersection of Quintard and 12th Street. Witnesses say the car was speeding at the time.
Two passerbys pulled all three teens out of the burning car. The other two were hospitalized but are expected to recover.
Friends of Cody Watson have now erected a memorial at the intersection with flowers and balloons. There are also personal messages and bible verses.
Weaver High Principal Frances Shippe tells FOX6 News that students are being counseled and they have signed his parking spot and his seat in the cafeteria.
Some of his friends gathered at the scene Saturday night for a candlelight vigil.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
17-year-old Cody Watson died in a wreck that happened on Quintard Avenue in Anniston just before midnight Friday. He was pronounced dead on the scene just after midnight.
Watson was a front seat passenger in a Nissan Maxima when it crashed into a traffic light pole at the intersection of Quintard and 12th Street. Witnesses say the car was speeding at the time.
Two passerbys pulled all three teens out of the burning car. The other two were hospitalized but are expected to recover.
Friends of Cody Watson have now erected a memorial at the intersection with flowers and balloons. There are also personal messages and bible verses.
Weaver High Principal Frances Shippe tells FOX6 News that students are being counseled and they have signed his parking spot and his seat in the cafeteria.
Some of his friends gathered at the scene Saturday night for a candlelight vigil.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Buffalo Wild Wings to help crash victim's family
TRUSSVILLE, AL (WBRC) - On Monday, the Buffalo Wild Wings in Trussville is donating part of its profits to the family of Hillary Shelton.
The Hueytown High School graduate was killed last week in a violent interstate crash in Bessemer.
All you have to do is mention Hillary Shelton’s name and Buffalo Wild Wings will give 30% of your bill to the Shelton family.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The Hueytown High School graduate was killed last week in a violent interstate crash in Bessemer.
All you have to do is mention Hillary Shelton’s name and Buffalo Wild Wings will give 30% of your bill to the Shelton family.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Murder/rape suspect returned to Tuscaloosa
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - A murder suspect is back in Tuscaloosa to face charges.
Authorities booked Ellis Patton into the Tuscaloosa County Jail on Sunday. He is accused of raping two women and killing one of them nearly a month ago.
Police were called to the home of Angela Lavender last month. They found her body on the couch. They say after Ellis killed Lavender, he went upstairs and assaulted her friend in front of her daughter.
Patton fled to Jackson, Florida and Cleveland, Ohio before eventually turning himself in.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Authorities booked Ellis Patton into the Tuscaloosa County Jail on Sunday. He is accused of raping two women and killing one of them nearly a month ago.
Police were called to the home of Angela Lavender last month. They found her body on the couch. They say after Ellis killed Lavender, he went upstairs and assaulted her friend in front of her daughter.
Patton fled to Jackson, Florida and Cleveland, Ohio before eventually turning himself in.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jawbone analysis results to be announced next week in Holloway investigation
ARUBA (WBRC) - The results of the forensic analysis on a jawbone found this month in Aruba will be announced Tuesday. This may potentially provide the first piece of concrete evidence in the death of missing American teenager Natalee Holloway.
Dutch forensic experts at the Hague have been comparing the bone to Holloway’s dental records since it was found on the island on November 12th.
Holloway disappeared during a high school trip to Aruba in 2005 and her remains have never been found, despite extensive police searches.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Dutch forensic experts at the Hague have been comparing the bone to Holloway’s dental records since it was found on the island on November 12th.
Holloway disappeared during a high school trip to Aruba in 2005 and her remains have never been found, despite extensive police searches.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Murder victim's relative fight to keep convicted killer behind bars
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) - Relatives of a murder victim from Oneonta continue their fight this week. They are fighting to keep one of their loved one's killers behind bars.
It has been nearly 19 years since 15-year-old Allen Eakes and 14-year old Kevin Duncan were assaulted with a baseball bat and left to drown near the Shades Creek Bridge off Highway 150 in Hoover.
Three men were convicted in the killings and one of them, Nathan Gast, has a parole hearing this week. Allen Eakes's brother and sister will be at the hearing to fight the parole petition.
With the holidays approaching, the possibility of gast going free is even more troubling. “Because we miss him, and we know he would be here, and his children would be here, that's hard,” said Eddie Eakes, the victim’s brother. “All we have to do is go visit his tombstone and grave. That's all we have to remember him by.”
Nathan Gast's parole hearing is set for Tuesday. His last opportunity for parole in 2001 was denied.
Carvin Stargell and Christopher Thrasher are serving life sentences without parole for their part in the killings.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
It has been nearly 19 years since 15-year-old Allen Eakes and 14-year old Kevin Duncan were assaulted with a baseball bat and left to drown near the Shades Creek Bridge off Highway 150 in Hoover.
Three men were convicted in the killings and one of them, Nathan Gast, has a parole hearing this week. Allen Eakes's brother and sister will be at the hearing to fight the parole petition.
With the holidays approaching, the possibility of gast going free is even more troubling. “Because we miss him, and we know he would be here, and his children would be here, that's hard,” said Eddie Eakes, the victim’s brother. “All we have to do is go visit his tombstone and grave. That's all we have to remember him by.”
Nathan Gast's parole hearing is set for Tuesday. His last opportunity for parole in 2001 was denied.
Carvin Stargell and Christopher Thrasher are serving life sentences without parole for their part in the killings.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Multiple House Democrats expected to switch parties
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - An announcement expected out of Montgomery that several house Democrats will switch parties on Monday.
FOX6 News has learned that as many as four Democratic state representatives are switching now that Democrats are in the minority in both the state house and the senate.
Reports in the Montgomery Advertiser and the Tuscaloosa News say the lawmakers include Representatives Alan Boothe of Troy, Lesley Vance of Phenix City, Mike Millican of Hamilton and Steve Hurst of Munford.
That announcement takes place at 10:00 a.m. in Montgomery.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
FOX6 News has learned that as many as four Democratic state representatives are switching now that Democrats are in the minority in both the state house and the senate.
Reports in the Montgomery Advertiser and the Tuscaloosa News say the lawmakers include Representatives Alan Boothe of Troy, Lesley Vance of Phenix City, Mike Millican of Hamilton and Steve Hurst of Munford.
That announcement takes place at 10:00 a.m. in Montgomery.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Woman dead after vehicle accident on I-85
TUSKEGEE, AL (WBRC) - An accident on I-85 near Tuskegee claimed the live of a 53-year-old woman on Sunday.
Troopers say the incident involved a series of accidents that started with a single vehicle crash.
Two people were taken to a Montgomery hospital.
Police say the interstate was closed for almost 10 hours on Sunday.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Troopers say the incident involved a series of accidents that started with a single vehicle crash.
Two people were taken to a Montgomery hospital.
Police say the interstate was closed for almost 10 hours on Sunday.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Mother and two sons laid to rest
SHELBY COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - A mother and her two children killed in a car accident in Shelby County have been laid to rest.
Jessica Fields and her sons John and Tony were killed after police say someone ran a stop sign, hitting them.
Manley Williams faces criminal charges in the crash.
Fields’ daughter who survived the accident remains hospitalized in serious condition.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jessica Fields and her sons John and Tony were killed after police say someone ran a stop sign, hitting them.
Manley Williams faces criminal charges in the crash.
Fields’ daughter who survived the accident remains hospitalized in serious condition.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Candlelight vigil held for murder victim
PLEASANT GROVE, AL (WBRC) - A candlelight vigil was held in memory of a Birmingham murder victim on Sunday night.
Clifford Whitely was shot and killed on Felix Avenue Wednesday night. Whitely was a student at Lawson State and was the father of an eight-month-old son.
Mourners gathered in Pleasant Grove to remember him.
“Let's not take life for granted,” said family friend Felecia Ward. “You can be here today, gone tomorrow. So live, love, and be happy. That's what we wanted to portray here tonight.”
Birmingham police have arrested Tommie Williams in connection with the murder. Five suspects were arrested with Williams on other charges, including Shaunasty Lowe, who was recently acquitted in an unrelated quadruple murder case.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Clifford Whitely was shot and killed on Felix Avenue Wednesday night. Whitely was a student at Lawson State and was the father of an eight-month-old son.
Mourners gathered in Pleasant Grove to remember him.
“Let's not take life for granted,” said family friend Felecia Ward. “You can be here today, gone tomorrow. So live, love, and be happy. That's what we wanted to portray here tonight.”
Birmingham police have arrested Tommie Williams in connection with the murder. Five suspects were arrested with Williams on other charges, including Shaunasty Lowe, who was recently acquitted in an unrelated quadruple murder case.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Ryan Russell to face sentencing on Monday
COLUMBIANA, AL (WBRC) - Jurors return to court on Monday for the penalty phase in the trial of a Shelby County man convicted of killing his 11-year old cousin.
Ryan Russell was convicted of capital murder Friday in the June 2008 shooting death of Catherine Gillespie.
Jurors can recommend life in prison without parole or the death penalty. The final decision, however, will be made by a judge.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Ryan Russell was convicted of capital murder Friday in the June 2008 shooting death of Catherine Gillespie.
Jurors can recommend life in prison without parole or the death penalty. The final decision, however, will be made by a judge.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Investigator called in to examine suspicious overnight fire
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – A fire is under investigation in Birmingham’s Graymont area after breaking out just before midnight.
One person was displaced by the fire. The red cross was called in to help him.
Firefighters responding to the call later called for an arson investigator. Just last week, Birmingham fire crews responded to three suspicious fires in the same area. They were all set within about an hour of each other.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
One person was displaced by the fire. The red cross was called in to help him.
Firefighters responding to the call later called for an arson investigator. Just last week, Birmingham fire crews responded to three suspicious fires in the same area. They were all set within about an hour of each other.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Birmingham police arrest three robbery suspects
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – The Birmingham Police Department is reporting three arrests have been made in three separate robberies.
35-year-old Eric Williams was arrested for the September 1st robbery of a Titlebucks on Parkway East.
47-year-old John Kewish was arrested for a November 17th robbery of two people on 1st Avenue North.
31-year-old Demetrics Jenkins was arrested for the November 9th robbery of a citizen on Stone Ridge Road. Jenkins was found to be in possession of marijuana and cocaine during his arrest. He also faces unlawful possession of marijuana and unlawful possession of cocaine charges.
These three suspects are being held in the Jefferson County Jail.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
35-year-old Eric Williams was arrested for the September 1st robbery of a Titlebucks on Parkway East.
47-year-old John Kewish was arrested for a November 17th robbery of two people on 1st Avenue North.
31-year-old Demetrics Jenkins was arrested for the November 9th robbery of a citizen on Stone Ridge Road. Jenkins was found to be in possession of marijuana and cocaine during his arrest. He also faces unlawful possession of marijuana and unlawful possession of cocaine charges.
These three suspects are being held in the Jefferson County Jail.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Brookwood Hospital files appeal against Trinity move
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) – The CEO of Trinity Medical Center says attorneys for Brookwood Medical Center have filed an appeal with the State Health Planning and Development Agency against Trinity’s move to the digital hospital site on Highway 280.
Trinity CEO Keith Granger says Brookwood is appealing the decision by the Certificate of Need Board to allow Trinity to move to the site formerly owned by HealthSouth. He adds that St. Vincent’s Hospital is expected to also file an appeal against the decision.
Both Brookwood and St. Vincent’s feel the move will harm their operations financially. Granger calls the appeals “unfortunate” and says the appeal will hurt the economic development and quality of healthcare for residents along Highway 280.
Trinity has announced a new website in response to the appeal. The site, www.noappeals.com, is set up for people to comment their feelings about the hospital move and the appeals.
Granger adds that the red lights will return to the top of the digital hospital. Every time Trinity has faced an obstacle to their moving plans, the lights have shone red. When moving plans are progressing, the lights are green.
Trinity’s CEO says the company has not made a decision on whether or not they will halt construction and moving plans due to the appeal.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Trinity CEO Keith Granger says Brookwood is appealing the decision by the Certificate of Need Board to allow Trinity to move to the site formerly owned by HealthSouth. He adds that St. Vincent’s Hospital is expected to also file an appeal against the decision.
Both Brookwood and St. Vincent’s feel the move will harm their operations financially. Granger calls the appeals “unfortunate” and says the appeal will hurt the economic development and quality of healthcare for residents along Highway 280.
Trinity has announced a new website in response to the appeal. The site, www.noappeals.com, is set up for people to comment their feelings about the hospital move and the appeals.
Granger adds that the red lights will return to the top of the digital hospital. Every time Trinity has faced an obstacle to their moving plans, the lights have shone red. When moving plans are progressing, the lights are green.
Trinity’s CEO says the company has not made a decision on whether or not they will halt construction and moving plans due to the appeal.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Several storage units burglarized in Bessemer
BESSEMER, AL (WBRC) - A major burglary at a Bessemer storage facility was discovered when about 50 units were broken into on Bessemer Superhighway, say police. Many people are frustrated after the overnight burglary at Uncle Bob's Self Storage in Bessemer.
Police are investigating how someone broke into about 50 units. The satellite TV company, Direct TV, was renting a storage unit at this facility. An employee at the scene told FOX 6 News that the lock was cut on their unit and some boxes were torn open, however, nothing was taken. He says that is because the equipment inside was serialized.
The employee also said that a lawnmower was stolen from a nearby unit and that this is unfortunate for all the renters who have been hit.
"A bunch of units have been hit and it's not right,” said Antonio Bonne. “We're working hard and they're coming in here hitting up everybody."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Police are investigating how someone broke into about 50 units. The satellite TV company, Direct TV, was renting a storage unit at this facility. An employee at the scene told FOX 6 News that the lock was cut on their unit and some boxes were torn open, however, nothing was taken. He says that is because the equipment inside was serialized.
The employee also said that a lawnmower was stolen from a nearby unit and that this is unfortunate for all the renters who have been hit.
"A bunch of units have been hit and it's not right,” said Antonio Bonne. “We're working hard and they're coming in here hitting up everybody."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Natalee Holloway's mother issues statement on jawbone testing
ARUBA (WBRC) - Scientists are testing DNA to see if a jawbone is a match for missing Mountain Brook Teenager Natalee Holloway. Tourists found the bone on a beach in Aruba last week and took it to a hotel front desk.
Since then, the bone has been sent to the Netherlands and preliminary tests have shown it came from a human female.
Holloway's father says he turned over his daughters dental records to authorities for testing.
Natalee’s mother released this statement today:
"There is no good answer, whether it is Natalee or whether it isn't. But no answer at all is the most unbearable. We appreciate everyone's loving care and concern and are anxious about the developments."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Since then, the bone has been sent to the Netherlands and preliminary tests have shown it came from a human female.
Holloway's father says he turned over his daughters dental records to authorities for testing.
Natalee’s mother released this statement today:
"There is no good answer, whether it is Natalee or whether it isn't. But no answer at all is the most unbearable. We appreciate everyone's loving care and concern and are anxious about the developments."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Slain officer's family still seeking justice after 8 years
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Eight years and has still been no justice for the family of Officer Jerome Daniels.
Thursday marked the eighth anniversary of Daniel's murder. In 2002, Officer Daniels was off duty at a restaurant when he interrupted a robbery and was killed.
On Thursday, his mother gathered with dozens of officers at the spot where he was shot. They are still hoping someone will come forward with information that will lead to an arrest.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Thursday marked the eighth anniversary of Daniel's murder. In 2002, Officer Daniels was off duty at a restaurant when he interrupted a robbery and was killed.
On Thursday, his mother gathered with dozens of officers at the spot where he was shot. They are still hoping someone will come forward with information that will lead to an arrest.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Alabama's unemployment rate numbers holding steady.
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - The latest numbers on Alabama’s unemployment rate are staying steady.
The State Department of Industrial Relations says unemployment held steady at 8.9% in October. That is seven tenths of a point lower than the national average. It is also nearly two-full points lower than the unemployment rate we saw this time last year.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The State Department of Industrial Relations says unemployment held steady at 8.9% in October. That is seven tenths of a point lower than the national average. It is also nearly two-full points lower than the unemployment rate we saw this time last year.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Inverness man found guilty of 11-year-old's murder
COLUMBIANA, AL (WBRC) - An Inverness man has been found “guilty” of the murder of a young relative. The jury convicted Ryan Russell for the murder of 11-year-old Catherine Gillespie.
Russell was Gillespie's legal guardian and she lived with him at his house in Inverness. Gillespie’s body was found in a garbage can at the home in 2008.
A forensic specialist told jurors that the girl's wound came from a gun held directly to her head.
Russell's defense tried to prove that he did not intentionally shoot the girl.
The sentencing date has not yet been set.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Russell was Gillespie's legal guardian and she lived with him at his house in Inverness. Gillespie’s body was found in a garbage can at the home in 2008.
A forensic specialist told jurors that the girl's wound came from a gun held directly to her head.
Russell's defense tried to prove that he did not intentionally shoot the girl.
The sentencing date has not yet been set.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
State Rep. auctions Iron Bowl tickets for charity, faces scrutiny
LEEDS, AL (WBRC) - With all of the recent talk of ethics in government, Alabama's lawmakers are drawing more scrutiny.
One of the most visible perks of the job is just a week away. Each of your elected leaders receives free tickets and a parking pass to the Iron Bowl.
Several lawmakers have decided to give up their tickets this year, but State Representative Owen Drake auctioned his tickets for charity at Thursday’s Leeds Chamber of Commerce luncheon.
Critics say the free tickets open the door for corruption.
Representative Drake's tickets went for $1,700 dollars; that money will go to the Leeds Outreach.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
One of the most visible perks of the job is just a week away. Each of your elected leaders receives free tickets and a parking pass to the Iron Bowl.
Several lawmakers have decided to give up their tickets this year, but State Representative Owen Drake auctioned his tickets for charity at Thursday’s Leeds Chamber of Commerce luncheon.
Critics say the free tickets open the door for corruption.
Representative Drake's tickets went for $1,700 dollars; that money will go to the Leeds Outreach.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Troopers getting tough over "Move Over" Law
By Melanie Posey
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - It is a law that is been on the Alabama books now since July 2009, but Alabama State Troopers say drivers are not abiding by the “Move Over” law.
With the holidays approaching, they are toughening up on the law.
“It's a safety issue,” says Corporal Steve Smith. “Too many officers are being hurt and killed by people not taking a little caution.”
The “Move Over” law requires drivers to actually move over one lane when they see emergency crews on the interstate. If that is not possible, drivers are to slow down 15 miles per hour below the posted speed limit.
Smith says Alabama troopers are joining with other troopers across the southeast for the crackdown. They will have more troopers on the roads looking for violators.
As for how much the fines are, Smith says that will vary from county to county.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - It is a law that is been on the Alabama books now since July 2009, but Alabama State Troopers say drivers are not abiding by the “Move Over” law.
With the holidays approaching, they are toughening up on the law.
“It's a safety issue,” says Corporal Steve Smith. “Too many officers are being hurt and killed by people not taking a little caution.”
The “Move Over” law requires drivers to actually move over one lane when they see emergency crews on the interstate. If that is not possible, drivers are to slow down 15 miles per hour below the posted speed limit.
Smith says Alabama troopers are joining with other troopers across the southeast for the crackdown. They will have more troopers on the roads looking for violators.
As for how much the fines are, Smith says that will vary from county to county.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
New hospital coming to St. Clair County
ST. CLAIR COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - A new hospital is coming to Saint Clair County.
On Thursday, county leaders gathered to commemorate the completion of a steel frame for the 79,000 square foot hospital. Then, they signed the steel beam.
The new hospital will house 40 beds and replaces the existing St. Vincent's St. Clair hospital.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
On Thursday, county leaders gathered to commemorate the completion of a steel frame for the 79,000 square foot hospital. Then, they signed the steel beam.
The new hospital will house 40 beds and replaces the existing St. Vincent's St. Clair hospital.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Pet owners troubled by town's proposal
By Jonathan Hardison
CALERA, AL (WBRC) - Owning a pet isn't cheap, and it could get more expensive in one Shelby County city. Calera's leaders are proposing a pet tax.
The idea behind the tax would be to help pay for the cost of rounding up stray animals and taking them to the humane society, but this whole idea is on hold tonight after the Shelby County Humane Society's director was let go yesterday and now the city's left with a big problem and a very unpopular idea.
Mayor Jon Graham told pet owners Thursday night his city has been getting invoices from the humane society for the last several months showing how much it would charge the city for stray dogs that have been brought in, bills that would turn from fake to real at the beginning of next year and they've been running between $2,000 and $5,000 a month.
The humane society's former director suggested the city pass a law that would charge pet owners a yearly fee of $10 if their dog had a microchip and was spayed or neutered, and $42 if it wasn't, to help pay the city's stray dog bills. But Graham says that director was dismissed yesterday and now everything is on hold.
"I without a doubt believe we've been mislead and possibly misrepresented by the Humane Society, and at the same time, we want to be proactive, we want to play our part and make this a safe and friendly community."
Even though it's on hold, the idea of a so-called pet tax had pet owners up in arms.
"I'm very upset about it," said pet owner Dana Hardin. "I've got 3 dogs, and they never leave the house, they're in a fenced-in backyard and they never get out. I can't afford to pay that."
"They're trying to tell you what to do with your dog, that doesn't ring a bell, it's not gonna happen," said pet owner David Thomas.
"I can understand that, but I don't think it should be that high," Hardin said. "If they want, it seems like they're penalizing us, the ones that do take care of their animals, and not going after the ones that don't."
The mayor says the Shelby County Commission wants to meet with city leaders from across the county to try and come up with a unified way to attack the problem, and city council members tonight said stray dogs and cats are a serious problem that will have to be dealt with, and this idea of a pet tax isn't off the table completely, it's just delayed for now.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
CALERA, AL (WBRC) - Owning a pet isn't cheap, and it could get more expensive in one Shelby County city. Calera's leaders are proposing a pet tax.
The idea behind the tax would be to help pay for the cost of rounding up stray animals and taking them to the humane society, but this whole idea is on hold tonight after the Shelby County Humane Society's director was let go yesterday and now the city's left with a big problem and a very unpopular idea.
Mayor Jon Graham told pet owners Thursday night his city has been getting invoices from the humane society for the last several months showing how much it would charge the city for stray dogs that have been brought in, bills that would turn from fake to real at the beginning of next year and they've been running between $2,000 and $5,000 a month.
The humane society's former director suggested the city pass a law that would charge pet owners a yearly fee of $10 if their dog had a microchip and was spayed or neutered, and $42 if it wasn't, to help pay the city's stray dog bills. But Graham says that director was dismissed yesterday and now everything is on hold.
"I without a doubt believe we've been mislead and possibly misrepresented by the Humane Society, and at the same time, we want to be proactive, we want to play our part and make this a safe and friendly community."
Even though it's on hold, the idea of a so-called pet tax had pet owners up in arms.
"I'm very upset about it," said pet owner Dana Hardin. "I've got 3 dogs, and they never leave the house, they're in a fenced-in backyard and they never get out. I can't afford to pay that."
"They're trying to tell you what to do with your dog, that doesn't ring a bell, it's not gonna happen," said pet owner David Thomas.
"I can understand that, but I don't think it should be that high," Hardin said. "If they want, it seems like they're penalizing us, the ones that do take care of their animals, and not going after the ones that don't."
The mayor says the Shelby County Commission wants to meet with city leaders from across the county to try and come up with a unified way to attack the problem, and city council members tonight said stray dogs and cats are a serious problem that will have to be dealt with, and this idea of a pet tax isn't off the table completely, it's just delayed for now.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuscaloosa prepares for its first Thursday night game
By Kelvin Reynolds
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - Classes are cancelled on the University of Alabama’s campus because of the Thursday night game against Georgia State. Tuscaloosa City Schools will begin dismissing early on a staggered schedule from 11:30 a.m. to 12:50 p.m.
This is the first time Alabama will play on Thursday night in Tuscaloosa. Downtown Tuscaloosa businesses are not sure if they will see much of a bump in sales, but they do wonder how traffic and parking will be affected.
City Hall closes at 2 p.m. That should free up parking at free lots in downtown including the parking deck at the intermodal facility.
Police say between 2:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m., you could start seeing changes as far as blocking off streets and redirecting traffic for the football game.
The city clerk says since it is a Thursday night game, after 2 o'clock, you can park in spaces along city streets and not get ticketed. Normally those spaces are limited to 2 hours.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - Classes are cancelled on the University of Alabama’s campus because of the Thursday night game against Georgia State. Tuscaloosa City Schools will begin dismissing early on a staggered schedule from 11:30 a.m. to 12:50 p.m.
This is the first time Alabama will play on Thursday night in Tuscaloosa. Downtown Tuscaloosa businesses are not sure if they will see much of a bump in sales, but they do wonder how traffic and parking will be affected.
City Hall closes at 2 p.m. That should free up parking at free lots in downtown including the parking deck at the intermodal facility.
Police say between 2:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m., you could start seeing changes as far as blocking off streets and redirecting traffic for the football game.
The city clerk says since it is a Thursday night game, after 2 o'clock, you can park in spaces along city streets and not get ticketed. Normally those spaces are limited to 2 hours.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
One dead after collision with tractor trailer in Forestdale
FORESTDALE, AL (WBRC) – The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department is reporting that an accident in Forestdale has claimed a life.
Just before 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, a 2002 silver Chevy Malibu pulled out from the Forestdale Post Office onto Highway 78. An eastbound tractor trailer struck the Malibu on its left side and pushed it 60 feet into the center turn lane.
Forestdale Fire and Rescue responded to the accident and found the driver pinned in the vehicle. The driver was later pronounced dead at the scene.
The victim’s name has been withheld until family can be notified.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Just before 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, a 2002 silver Chevy Malibu pulled out from the Forestdale Post Office onto Highway 78. An eastbound tractor trailer struck the Malibu on its left side and pushed it 60 feet into the center turn lane.
Forestdale Fire and Rescue responded to the accident and found the driver pinned in the vehicle. The driver was later pronounced dead at the scene.
The victim’s name has been withheld until family can be notified.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
One killed in Chelsea car accident
CHELSEA, AL (WBRC) – A woman was fatally injured after being in an accident with another vehicle on Wednesday night, says the Alabama Department of Public Safety.
51-year-old Rhonda Price’s 2010 Kia Forte became involved in an accident with a 2010 Ford Focus on Highway 280 in Chelsea just before 9:00 p.m. Price was transported to Shelby Baptist Hospital where she was pronounced dead.
The driver of the other vehicle, 18-year-old, Olen Keith Croft was uninjured.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
51-year-old Rhonda Price’s 2010 Kia Forte became involved in an accident with a 2010 Ford Focus on Highway 280 in Chelsea just before 9:00 p.m. Price was transported to Shelby Baptist Hospital where she was pronounced dead.
The driver of the other vehicle, 18-year-old, Olen Keith Croft was uninjured.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Nine people left without home after morning blaze
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A total of 9 people were displaced by a house fire on Thursday morning. Birmingham Fire and Rescue crews responded to the call on Electra Drive after 2:00 a.m.
A woman who lives in the home says she heard a loud explosion and actually thought someone was breaking in. “It’s scary, especially being a mom and a single mother,” said resident Aimee Hill.
Hill says she thinks the water heater exploded-- causing the fire.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
A woman who lives in the home says she heard a loud explosion and actually thought someone was breaking in. “It’s scary, especially being a mom and a single mother,” said resident Aimee Hill.
Hill says she thinks the water heater exploded-- causing the fire.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Victim identified in Birmingham murder
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham police have identified the victim in the city's 46th murder of the year.
Officers responding to a call Wednesday evening found a man's body at East Brownsville Park on Felix Avenue. Investigators say the victim is 21-year-old Clifford Whitely.
So far, there has not been an arrest in this case. Anyone with information is asked to call the Birmingham Police Department.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Officers responding to a call Wednesday evening found a man's body at East Brownsville Park on Felix Avenue. Investigators say the victim is 21-year-old Clifford Whitely.
So far, there has not been an arrest in this case. Anyone with information is asked to call the Birmingham Police Department.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Group raising money to fund lawmaker's legal defense
By Alan Collins
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - A group is planning to raise money for a legal defense fund to defend a Montgomery lawmaker accused of public corruption in the electronic bingo probe.
In a press release, friends and supporter of Sen. Quinton Ross says they want to raise money to defray some of the cost of his defense. Part of the money will go toward hiring expert witnesses and payment of attorney fees.
Contributions can be made to:
Friends of Quinton Ross, Jr. Legal Defense Fund and Trust
3066 Zelda Road
#274 Montgomery AL. 36106-2651
or go to www.rossdefensefund.org
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - A group is planning to raise money for a legal defense fund to defend a Montgomery lawmaker accused of public corruption in the electronic bingo probe.
In a press release, friends and supporter of Sen. Quinton Ross says they want to raise money to defray some of the cost of his defense. Part of the money will go toward hiring expert witnesses and payment of attorney fees.
Contributions can be made to:
Friends of Quinton Ross, Jr. Legal Defense Fund and Trust
3066 Zelda Road
#274 Montgomery AL. 36106-2651
or go to www.rossdefensefund.org
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Ohatchee plant to close, 76 jobs lost
By Dixon Hayes
OHATCHEE, AL (WBRC) - An Ohatchee plant will close next year, taking some 76 jobs with it.
American Firewear is owned by Honeywell, which told workers last week its product lines would be consolidated with the plant in Dayton, Ohio.
Honeywell spokesman, Mark Hamel, tells Fox6 News the layoffs will occur in three phases. The first will begin in February, and the most will take place in June 2011. Hamel says employees will be offered severance pay.
Hamel says the company closed the plant to "improve our efficiency and stay competitive," and said it was no reflection on the work ethic of the Ohatchee employees or the quality of products that came out of that plant.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
OHATCHEE, AL (WBRC) - An Ohatchee plant will close next year, taking some 76 jobs with it.
American Firewear is owned by Honeywell, which told workers last week its product lines would be consolidated with the plant in Dayton, Ohio.
Honeywell spokesman, Mark Hamel, tells Fox6 News the layoffs will occur in three phases. The first will begin in February, and the most will take place in June 2011. Hamel says employees will be offered severance pay.
Hamel says the company closed the plant to "improve our efficiency and stay competitive," and said it was no reflection on the work ethic of the Ohatchee employees or the quality of products that came out of that plant.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Another mining operation seeking spot on Warrior River
By Alan Collins
WALKER COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - Another mining operation is seeking to discharge waste water into the Mulberry Fork right on the Warrior River near Cordova in Walker County.
Reed Mineral applied for a discharge permit with the Alabama Department of Environmental Management. ADEM recently approved of the Shepard’s Bend mine.
The latest move is a concern to the Birmingham Water Works which depends of the river as a source for 200,000 customers.
Randy Palmer with the Citizens Opposed to Strip Mining on the Black Warrior River also opposes this latest permit, believing it will impact the environment of the area.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
WALKER COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - Another mining operation is seeking to discharge waste water into the Mulberry Fork right on the Warrior River near Cordova in Walker County.
Reed Mineral applied for a discharge permit with the Alabama Department of Environmental Management. ADEM recently approved of the Shepard’s Bend mine.
The latest move is a concern to the Birmingham Water Works which depends of the river as a source for 200,000 customers.
Randy Palmer with the Citizens Opposed to Strip Mining on the Black Warrior River also opposes this latest permit, believing it will impact the environment of the area.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Doctors advise people to get flu vaccine
By Emliy Luxen
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham area doctors are already seeing flu cases before its peak season in February.
Dr. Keith Stansell reports his waiting rooms at Alabama Pediatrics in Homewood are starting to fill with patients with flu symptoms. He says this year's all-in-one vaccine protects against traditional flu and the H1N1 virus, which means patients only have to get one shot.
"If we can protect people from getting an infection in the first place, then that will limit the spread and severity of disease," said Dr. Stansell.
Dr. Stansell recommends all patients older than 6 months get either a vaccine or use the nasal spray format to fend off the flu.
"For what seems like the first time in years, there haven't been any hiccups in supply," said Dr. Stansell. "We have plenty of injection and nasal spray versions of flu vaccine."
The Centers for Disease Control reports it is still too early to determine if this will be a bad year for flu cases. Right now, there are sporadic cases across the country, but nothing too alarming.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham area doctors are already seeing flu cases before its peak season in February.
Dr. Keith Stansell reports his waiting rooms at Alabama Pediatrics in Homewood are starting to fill with patients with flu symptoms. He says this year's all-in-one vaccine protects against traditional flu and the H1N1 virus, which means patients only have to get one shot.
"If we can protect people from getting an infection in the first place, then that will limit the spread and severity of disease," said Dr. Stansell.
Dr. Stansell recommends all patients older than 6 months get either a vaccine or use the nasal spray format to fend off the flu.
"For what seems like the first time in years, there haven't been any hiccups in supply," said Dr. Stansell. "We have plenty of injection and nasal spray versions of flu vaccine."
The Centers for Disease Control reports it is still too early to determine if this will be a bad year for flu cases. Right now, there are sporadic cases across the country, but nothing too alarming.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Man dies after robbery in Ensley
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – The Birmingham Police Department says that a man has died after being shot during a robbery.
Officers say they responded to a report of shots fired at 2733 24th Street in Ensley on Tuesday night to find 23-year-old Manderius Oden unresponsive and suffering from a gunshot wound.
Oden was transported to UAB Hospital for treatment, but was pronounced dead at 6:00 a.m. on Wednesday.
Witnesses say three suspects entered the victim’s residence and robbed Oden before shooting him.
So far, there have been no arrests in the case.
If there is anyone who has information pertaining to this case, they are encouraged to contact the Birmingham Police Department @ 254-1764 or Crime Stoppers @ 254-7777.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Officers say they responded to a report of shots fired at 2733 24th Street in Ensley on Tuesday night to find 23-year-old Manderius Oden unresponsive and suffering from a gunshot wound.
Oden was transported to UAB Hospital for treatment, but was pronounced dead at 6:00 a.m. on Wednesday.
Witnesses say three suspects entered the victim’s residence and robbed Oden before shooting him.
So far, there have been no arrests in the case.
If there is anyone who has information pertaining to this case, they are encouraged to contact the Birmingham Police Department @ 254-1764 or Crime Stoppers @ 254-7777.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Veterinarian pleads guilty to arson and animal cruelty charges
GADSDEN, AL (WBRC) – A Gadsden veterinarian has plead guilty to charges stemming from setting fire to his veterinary clinic.
In April of 2008, Dr. Jerry Wayne Handley’s clinic on Highway 411 caught on fire. Seven animals died in the fire. Handley was arrested and accused of starting the blaze.
Handley entered the guilty pleas on Tuesday to charges of one count of arson and seven counts of animal cruelty to a dog or cat.
“I’m glad this case has come to an end with a guilty plea,” states Sheriff Todd Entrekin. “We knew all along that we had a great case against Handley.”
Handley could receive 15 years for the arson charge and 10 years for each animal cruelty charge. The plea agreement requires that Handley serve 24 months and pay restitution of $13,500 before being eligible for release.
A sentencing date has been tentatively schedule on February 17, 2011 in Circuit Judge David Kimberley’s courtroom.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
In April of 2008, Dr. Jerry Wayne Handley’s clinic on Highway 411 caught on fire. Seven animals died in the fire. Handley was arrested and accused of starting the blaze.
Handley entered the guilty pleas on Tuesday to charges of one count of arson and seven counts of animal cruelty to a dog or cat.
“I’m glad this case has come to an end with a guilty plea,” states Sheriff Todd Entrekin. “We knew all along that we had a great case against Handley.”
Handley could receive 15 years for the arson charge and 10 years for each animal cruelty charge. The plea agreement requires that Handley serve 24 months and pay restitution of $13,500 before being eligible for release.
A sentencing date has been tentatively schedule on February 17, 2011 in Circuit Judge David Kimberley’s courtroom.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Prosecutors introduce more evidence in Russell murder trial
COLUMBIANA, AL (WBRC) – On Wednesday, prosecutors in the Ryan Russell murder trial focused on gun, shell casing and the gunshot wound as evidence of Russell’s guilt.
Russell is accused of shooting 11-year-old Catherine Gillespie in the head and dumping her body in the trash can. Gillespie was a relative in the care of Russell.
Prosecutors focused mainly on a hat found in the room where Gillespie is believed to have been killed. A forensic firearms technician stated that a hole in the hat matches to the wound in Gillespie’s head. The technician said the only way the pattern could have matched is if the gun was in direct contact with the victim.
The defense cross examined the technician by asking if the contact wound on the hat could have been made if a person holding the gun tripped and accidentally discharged the weapon. The defense has stated that it will try to prove that the killing was accidental.
On Tuesday, the trash can where Gillespie’s body was stored was shown to the court.
At the pace of this trial, it is expected that the defense could call its first witness on Thursday.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Russell is accused of shooting 11-year-old Catherine Gillespie in the head and dumping her body in the trash can. Gillespie was a relative in the care of Russell.
Prosecutors focused mainly on a hat found in the room where Gillespie is believed to have been killed. A forensic firearms technician stated that a hole in the hat matches to the wound in Gillespie’s head. The technician said the only way the pattern could have matched is if the gun was in direct contact with the victim.
The defense cross examined the technician by asking if the contact wound on the hat could have been made if a person holding the gun tripped and accidentally discharged the weapon. The defense has stated that it will try to prove that the killing was accidental.
On Tuesday, the trash can where Gillespie’s body was stored was shown to the court.
At the pace of this trial, it is expected that the defense could call its first witness on Thursday.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Former coach pleads guilty to child pornography charges
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) - A middle school coach in the Hoover School System has plead guilty on child pornography charges.
James Corbitt was first arrested in April. Prosecutors say he admitted to possessing more than 20,000 images of child porn and even videotaping two boys getting in and out of the shower.
Corbitt worked as a part time coach at Bumpus Middle School for about nine years. He was not coaching for the school when he was arrested.
A sentencing date has not yet been set.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
James Corbitt was first arrested in April. Prosecutors say he admitted to possessing more than 20,000 images of child porn and even videotaping two boys getting in and out of the shower.
Corbitt worked as a part time coach at Bumpus Middle School for about nine years. He was not coaching for the school when he was arrested.
A sentencing date has not yet been set.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Former Two Year College System chancellor to be sentenced
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - The former Chancellor of Alabama's Two Year College System will learn his sentence Thursday.
Roy Johnson pleaded guilty to bribery and conspiracy, but his sentencing has been delayed repeatedly as he aided the government's investigation.
Federal prosecutors want Johnson to serve more than seven years in prison.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Roy Johnson pleaded guilty to bribery and conspiracy, but his sentencing has been delayed repeatedly as he aided the government's investigation.
Federal prosecutors want Johnson to serve more than seven years in prison.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Man charged with stealing radiators and air conditioning from vehicles
COATES BEND, AL (WBRC) – The Etowah County Sheriff’s Department says they have arrested a man in connection to a theft in the Coates Bend community.
20-year-old Barry Lee Payne is facing a count of second degree theft of property after investigators say he stole six radiators and three air conditioning units from vehicles on a property near his residence on October 5th. Allegedly, Payne then sold the radiators and air conditioning units to a scrap metal business.
One individual has been arrested and charged with a theft-related offense, according to Sheriff Todd Entrekin.
Payne is being held in the Etowah County Detention Center.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
20-year-old Barry Lee Payne is facing a count of second degree theft of property after investigators say he stole six radiators and three air conditioning units from vehicles on a property near his residence on October 5th. Allegedly, Payne then sold the radiators and air conditioning units to a scrap metal business.
One individual has been arrested and charged with a theft-related offense, according to Sheriff Todd Entrekin.
Payne is being held in the Etowah County Detention Center.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Governor Riley to make announcement about Medicaid
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Governor Riley plans to make an announcement about Medicaid in Alabama on Wednesday.
The governor will hold news conferences in Birmingham and Montgomery for what the press office calls a major announcement on the status of Medicaid.
Medicaid uses state and federal funding to cover medical and long-term care for about a million Alabamians.
The Birmingham event is set for 1:30 p.m. this afternoon at Children's Hospital. Of course, FOX6 News will bring you the latest.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The governor will hold news conferences in Birmingham and Montgomery for what the press office calls a major announcement on the status of Medicaid.
Medicaid uses state and federal funding to cover medical and long-term care for about a million Alabamians.
The Birmingham event is set for 1:30 p.m. this afternoon at Children's Hospital. Of course, FOX6 News will bring you the latest.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jury hears recorded statements in Lockhart murder trial
AUBURN, AL (WBRC) - Testimony resumes Wednesday morning in the trial of a man accused of the 2008 kidnapping and killing of an Auburn University student.
In court Tuesday, jurors heard recorded statements where Courtney Lockhart admitted to kidnapping Lauren Burk. Lockhart says his gun went off when Burk tried to get out of the car.
He did not say if he intended to shoot Burk and gave no explanation into how the gun fired.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
In court Tuesday, jurors heard recorded statements where Courtney Lockhart admitted to kidnapping Lauren Burk. Lockhart says his gun went off when Burk tried to get out of the car.
He did not say if he intended to shoot Burk and gave no explanation into how the gun fired.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Homewood to welcome new department store near Brookwood Village
By Jonathan Hardison
HOMEWOOD, AL (WBRC) - Homewood's mayor says the city will soon have a new Target store.
Mayor Scott McBrayer says the city is polishing the details on a deal to place the store next to Brookwood Village.
It's been known for weeks that this project was in the works because the city council passed a package of tax incentives for this project, but Homewood's mayor is ready to call this all but a done deal. Shoppers seem pretty excited about the idea.
The developer is Colonial Properties. They tell FOX6 News they aren't ready to make any announcements about the long-rumored project, but McBrayer says it's a go.
"We are continuing to move forward going through the process," McBrayer said. "We were in court a couple of weeks ago, and the courts have gone ahead with the validation process. So the city's doing it's part, we're still waiting on the developers, Colonial, to iron out some things for them, but things are on pace, I started to say on target, but things are going well for the city."
Asked if he's confident this project is a done deal, McBrayer said, "Yeah, I do. Anything can happen, but we're very confident. The council's been very supportive. We've all worked well together. We're excited in Homewood about this type of retail store coming to our area."
One consumer, Rachel Smith reacts, "Great news, actually. But traffic, I could see that being an issue. But I love Target, so think that's gonna be great."
That pull between a popular brand and the thought of putting more cars onto already-crowded Lakeshore Drive is something the city and developers are trying to address.
"A lot of the parking will be underneath the store, and the city of Homewood will be addressing traffic on Lakeshore and making some improvements that we need, and we've already done studies to assess that, so we feel like we're kind of ahead of the game on that," McBrayer said.
"Traffic it can't be a good thing. I travel back and forth on Lakeshore everyday," said Mt. Brook shopper Eddie Allan. "But for stopping on the way home to pick something up, it'll be great."
While the developers wouldn't confirm any details of the project Tuesday, they did tell us they're hoping to make a concrete announcement about some of these specifics as early as the next 30 days or so.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
HOMEWOOD, AL (WBRC) - Homewood's mayor says the city will soon have a new Target store.
Mayor Scott McBrayer says the city is polishing the details on a deal to place the store next to Brookwood Village.
It's been known for weeks that this project was in the works because the city council passed a package of tax incentives for this project, but Homewood's mayor is ready to call this all but a done deal. Shoppers seem pretty excited about the idea.
The developer is Colonial Properties. They tell FOX6 News they aren't ready to make any announcements about the long-rumored project, but McBrayer says it's a go.
"We are continuing to move forward going through the process," McBrayer said. "We were in court a couple of weeks ago, and the courts have gone ahead with the validation process. So the city's doing it's part, we're still waiting on the developers, Colonial, to iron out some things for them, but things are on pace, I started to say on target, but things are going well for the city."
Asked if he's confident this project is a done deal, McBrayer said, "Yeah, I do. Anything can happen, but we're very confident. The council's been very supportive. We've all worked well together. We're excited in Homewood about this type of retail store coming to our area."
One consumer, Rachel Smith reacts, "Great news, actually. But traffic, I could see that being an issue. But I love Target, so think that's gonna be great."
That pull between a popular brand and the thought of putting more cars onto already-crowded Lakeshore Drive is something the city and developers are trying to address.
"A lot of the parking will be underneath the store, and the city of Homewood will be addressing traffic on Lakeshore and making some improvements that we need, and we've already done studies to assess that, so we feel like we're kind of ahead of the game on that," McBrayer said.
"Traffic it can't be a good thing. I travel back and forth on Lakeshore everyday," said Mt. Brook shopper Eddie Allan. "But for stopping on the way home to pick something up, it'll be great."
While the developers wouldn't confirm any details of the project Tuesday, they did tell us they're hoping to make a concrete announcement about some of these specifics as early as the next 30 days or so.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Cullman pondering rules for new alcohol ordinance
CULLMAN, AL (WBRC) - In Cullman, city leaders are seeking input on their new alcohol ordinance.
A second public meeting on alcohol sales began at noon on Tuesday at Cullman City Hall. The ordinance will restrict when, where, and what kinds of alcohol can be sold in Cullman.
About 70 people turned out for the first hearing.
City leaders expect alcohol sales to begin in January or February.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
A second public meeting on alcohol sales began at noon on Tuesday at Cullman City Hall. The ordinance will restrict when, where, and what kinds of alcohol can be sold in Cullman.
About 70 people turned out for the first hearing.
City leaders expect alcohol sales to begin in January or February.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Governor Bob Riley to pardon turkey on Tuesday
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - In Montgomery on Tuesday, Governor Bob Riley is set to uphold an Alabama tradition. The Governor will pardon a turkey named Clyde.
In addition to the symbolic turkey pardon, Governor Riley and the First Lady are also collecting blankets for the less fortunate.
Students from Edgewood Academy in Birmingham and Riverchase Day School in Hoover will bring blankets to the event.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
In addition to the symbolic turkey pardon, Governor Riley and the First Lady are also collecting blankets for the less fortunate.
Students from Edgewood Academy in Birmingham and Riverchase Day School in Hoover will bring blankets to the event.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Three fires erupt near Legion Field
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Three fires sparked within minutes near Legion Field on Tuesday morning.
A little after 6:00 a.m., Birmingham fire crews responded to a fire at the old Legion Field Apartments on 8th Avenue West at 5th Street West. We are told no one was living in the building that caught fire.
Moments later and just around the block, the same crews had to go to a fire at a home on 7th Street West and 6th Avenue West. This home was also vacant, but was consumed by fire.
The owner of the home was on the scene and says he think it is suspicious.
There is not much information, but word has been received that a third fire has sparked on Fourth Court.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
A little after 6:00 a.m., Birmingham fire crews responded to a fire at the old Legion Field Apartments on 8th Avenue West at 5th Street West. We are told no one was living in the building that caught fire.
Moments later and just around the block, the same crews had to go to a fire at a home on 7th Street West and 6th Avenue West. This home was also vacant, but was consumed by fire.
The owner of the home was on the scene and says he think it is suspicious.
There is not much information, but word has been received that a third fire has sparked on Fourth Court.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
New charges added against driver accused of causing fatal accident
WESTOVER, AL (WBRC) - New charges have been added for the man accused of causing a crash that killed three family members.
Jessica Fields was driving her van with her sons John and Tony and her daughter Angelia on Highway 280 near Westover on Friday night. State troopers say a car driven by Manley Williams ran a stop sign and hit Fields' van.
Jessica Fields and both of her sons were killed in the crash. Her daughter was flown to Children's Hospital, where she is in serious condition.
Investigators have updated the charges against Manley Williams. He is now facing three counts of murder and one count of assault.
If you would like to help the Fields family, a memorial fund has been set up at M&F Bank as well as Regions Bank.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jessica Fields was driving her van with her sons John and Tony and her daughter Angelia on Highway 280 near Westover on Friday night. State troopers say a car driven by Manley Williams ran a stop sign and hit Fields' van.
Jessica Fields and both of her sons were killed in the crash. Her daughter was flown to Children's Hospital, where she is in serious condition.
Investigators have updated the charges against Manley Williams. He is now facing three counts of murder and one count of assault.
If you would like to help the Fields family, a memorial fund has been set up at M&F Bank as well as Regions Bank.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Courtney Lockhart trial continues
AUBURN, AL (WBRC) - Testimony resumes Tuesday in the capital murder trial of Courtney Lockhart. He is accused of the 2008 kidnapping and killing of Auburn University student Lauren Burk.
On Monday in court, Burk's sister testified that she gave Lauren an iPod that was found on Lockhart after the crime.
Jurors also heard several witnesses detail the final hours of Burk’s life.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
On Monday in court, Burk's sister testified that she gave Lauren an iPod that was found on Lockhart after the crime.
Jurors also heard several witnesses detail the final hours of Burk’s life.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham woman pulled over by fake police officer
By Melanie Posey
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - What would you do if you saw flashing blue lights in your rearview mirror? Would you pull over? One Birmingham woman says she did so Saturday morning only to be confronted by a fake cope.
She asked that her name not be given, but says she was travelling eastbound on Highway 280 when she went through a green light. All of the sudden, she checked her rearview mirror.
“And I saw a vehicle approaching me quickly with flashing lights on the inside. That's when I started thinking, what did I do wrong? What's going on?"
The woman says she pulled over and that’s when a man wearing navy pants and a navy shirt got out of his truck and approached her car, yelling expletives and asking if she were drunk.
“And he's like, do you know what the hell you could have just done?”, the woman recalled. “You could have just cause a major accident, like the what (expletive) is wrong with you?"
She says the man had a badge, but kept her from getting a good look at it. She says he also never asked for her license and registration, but instead offered her some scary advice. “You need to pull over, go to the parking lot, get out of your car, go in a shopping area or stand or sit in a parking lot,” she remembers the man saying.
She says she decided to go home instead but says the man continued to follow her for several miles before finally turning off.
Mountain Brook Police Chief Johnny Stanley says they are not sure whether the man was really a police officer or not, but he has instructed his beat officers to be on the lookout for the truck, which the woman describes as white with a Samford Bulldog tag on the front.
Samford University Police Chief Mike Coppage says the truck nor the man fits the description of any of his officers or vehicles on duty at that time.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - What would you do if you saw flashing blue lights in your rearview mirror? Would you pull over? One Birmingham woman says she did so Saturday morning only to be confronted by a fake cope.
She asked that her name not be given, but says she was travelling eastbound on Highway 280 when she went through a green light. All of the sudden, she checked her rearview mirror.
“And I saw a vehicle approaching me quickly with flashing lights on the inside. That's when I started thinking, what did I do wrong? What's going on?"
The woman says she pulled over and that’s when a man wearing navy pants and a navy shirt got out of his truck and approached her car, yelling expletives and asking if she were drunk.
“And he's like, do you know what the hell you could have just done?”, the woman recalled. “You could have just cause a major accident, like the what (expletive) is wrong with you?"
She says the man had a badge, but kept her from getting a good look at it. She says he also never asked for her license and registration, but instead offered her some scary advice. “You need to pull over, go to the parking lot, get out of your car, go in a shopping area or stand or sit in a parking lot,” she remembers the man saying.
She says she decided to go home instead but says the man continued to follow her for several miles before finally turning off.
Mountain Brook Police Chief Johnny Stanley says they are not sure whether the man was really a police officer or not, but he has instructed his beat officers to be on the lookout for the truck, which the woman describes as white with a Samford Bulldog tag on the front.
Samford University Police Chief Mike Coppage says the truck nor the man fits the description of any of his officers or vehicles on duty at that time.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
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