By Emily Luxen
SHELBY COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - Shelby County residents will head to the polls next week to vote on extending the 30-mill property tax for schools for another 30 years.
Shelby County School Superintendent Randy Fuller said residents are not voting on a tax increase, just a continuation of the existing tax. He said it generates $75 million a year for the school system, which is 28 percent of the budget. And it is necessary to help the district grow and strive.
"We have a special school system with well-rounded schools," said Fuller. "This pays for personnel. It pays for programs, operations, transportation, custodians, and utilities." Fuller also said as the district continues to grow, the money is even more important. "In the next 6 years we will grow by 3000 students, so this renewal gives us the opportunity to secure new bonds, and build new buildings."
The 30-mill means that a person who owns a $100,000 home pays $300 in yearly property taxes that go to the school system. Some Shelby County residents said since that amount will not change, they plan to vote yes.
"The education system is suffering enough," said Kisha Vassar, a parent. "My children go to schools in this system so I want to support them getting any funding they can."
The vote is Feb. 8, 2011.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Security tightened at Alabama Statehouse
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - There are new measures in place to keep lawmakers safer in the wake of the Tucson shooting rampage.
Guards have tightened security at the Alabama Statehouse.
The public will no longer be able to walk into the offices of state lawmakers unannounced. People will now have to schedule a meeting beforehand.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Guards have tightened security at the Alabama Statehouse.
The public will no longer be able to walk into the offices of state lawmakers unannounced. People will now have to schedule a meeting beforehand.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Luther Strange discusses new options for e-bingo
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - Alabama's attorney general is discussing a big issue around the state: e-bingo.
Governor Riley's task force on illegal gambling is dissolved now and many operations want to know how to proceed.
Monday on Good Day Alabama, Luther Strange said that he has spoken with Bessemer as well as Greenetrack and says there is an option for bingo businesses to go to court.
“We've met with Greenetrack and their owners,” said Strange. If they’d like to test these machines in court and have their answer once and for all, they can have their day in court.”
Luther Strange also said that he and Governor Bentley will work as a team to decide how to proceed with electronic bingo in Alabama.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Governor Riley's task force on illegal gambling is dissolved now and many operations want to know how to proceed.
Monday on Good Day Alabama, Luther Strange said that he has spoken with Bessemer as well as Greenetrack and says there is an option for bingo businesses to go to court.
“We've met with Greenetrack and their owners,” said Strange. If they’d like to test these machines in court and have their answer once and for all, they can have their day in court.”
Luther Strange also said that he and Governor Bentley will work as a team to decide how to proceed with electronic bingo in Alabama.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jogger struck and killed by vehicle in Mountain Brook
MOUNTAIN BROOK, AL (WBRC) - The Jefferson County Coroner’s office reports that a jogger is dead after being hit by a car in Mountain Brook on Monday morning.
The Coroner says 38-year-old Sundeep Caplash of Mountain Brook was hit by a car in the 3200 block of Montevallo Road around 6:10 a.m.
Mountain Brook police have yet to say if there will be any charges in relation to the accident.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The Coroner says 38-year-old Sundeep Caplash of Mountain Brook was hit by a car in the 3200 block of Montevallo Road around 6:10 a.m.
Mountain Brook police have yet to say if there will be any charges in relation to the accident.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Fatal accident shuts down I-65 South
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A fatal accident shut down I-65 South in Birmingham overnight on Sunday.
A Birmingham fire dispatcher confirms this was a fatal crash.
Law enforcement has yet to release more details on the wreck.
Currently, the scene is clear and traffic is flowing on I-65.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
A Birmingham fire dispatcher confirms this was a fatal crash.
Law enforcement has yet to release more details on the wreck.
Currently, the scene is clear and traffic is flowing on I-65.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
AL Democrats elect new leadership
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - State Democrats have made a change in leadership. The party elected new leaders over the weekend.
Both the chairman and executive director stepped down following a major defeat in the November elections.
The new party chairman is Mark Kennedy. He is a former state supreme court judge and son-in-law of the late former Governor George Wallace.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Both the chairman and executive director stepped down following a major defeat in the November elections.
The new party chairman is Mark Kennedy. He is a former state supreme court judge and son-in-law of the late former Governor George Wallace.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Attalla to fix school's leaking roof
By Dixon Hayes
ATTALLA, AL (WBRC) - Attalla's school board will have an emergency meeting Monday to fix what they call a "roof emergency." Snowfall has riddled Attalla Elementary School with leaks in almost every classroom.
The school was once Curtiston Primary School until a consolidation in the last few years turned it into Attalla Elementary. The leaks first showed when students returned from missing school days after the January snowfall. But the leaks worsened when the snow melted on the flat roof that held water.
Consequently, one classroom had to be vacated because it had so many leaks.
In other rooms, teachers covered computers, books, and other equipment with plastic and moved students to another side of the room.
"We're just putting out trash cans to try to catch the leaks and just doing the best that we can under the circumstances," says Principal Nancy Mitchell.
"The teachers are just doing wonderful under the circumstances. I have to give them credit. They're able to continue with their teaching because they know we're here for the students."
David Bowman, the school board's Director of General Services, tells FOX6 NEWS taht architects and insurance agents have already thoroughly inspected the school and came up with plans for a replacement. It'll involve a metal gabled roof. So next time the snow and ice melts, the water will slide off. It will not puddle and cause leaks.
The repairs will cost $200,000 when Attalla, like other Alabama school systems, struggles with proration-related budget woes.
"Schools across the state are in terrible shape financially. So anything of this magnitude is going to be detrimental for our system," Bowman told FOX6 NEWS.
Still, Bowman believes Monday's anticipated action by the school board simply must happen, "It's a necessity, it's something that has to be done."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
ATTALLA, AL (WBRC) - Attalla's school board will have an emergency meeting Monday to fix what they call a "roof emergency." Snowfall has riddled Attalla Elementary School with leaks in almost every classroom.
The school was once Curtiston Primary School until a consolidation in the last few years turned it into Attalla Elementary. The leaks first showed when students returned from missing school days after the January snowfall. But the leaks worsened when the snow melted on the flat roof that held water.
Consequently, one classroom had to be vacated because it had so many leaks.
In other rooms, teachers covered computers, books, and other equipment with plastic and moved students to another side of the room.
"We're just putting out trash cans to try to catch the leaks and just doing the best that we can under the circumstances," says Principal Nancy Mitchell.
"The teachers are just doing wonderful under the circumstances. I have to give them credit. They're able to continue with their teaching because they know we're here for the students."
David Bowman, the school board's Director of General Services, tells FOX6 NEWS taht architects and insurance agents have already thoroughly inspected the school and came up with plans for a replacement. It'll involve a metal gabled roof. So next time the snow and ice melts, the water will slide off. It will not puddle and cause leaks.
The repairs will cost $200,000 when Attalla, like other Alabama school systems, struggles with proration-related budget woes.
"Schools across the state are in terrible shape financially. So anything of this magnitude is going to be detrimental for our system," Bowman told FOX6 NEWS.
Still, Bowman believes Monday's anticipated action by the school board simply must happen, "It's a necessity, it's something that has to be done."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Anniston Museum opens tasty new exhibit
By Dixon Hayes
ANNISTON, AL (WBRC) - Anniston's Museum of Natural History is serving up its biggest, tastiest exhibit ever: an exhibit devoted to the science and history of chocolate.
"The Chocolate Exhibit," produced by the Field Museum of Chicago, opened Saturday, January 29, in a museum usually known for its fossils, mummies, plants and its collection of birds.
Still, the museum's marketing director, Margie Conner, says the exhibit fits the museum perfectly.
"The plant is called theobroma cacao, and chocolate's made from the seeds of, basically the fruit of this tree," says Conner, about the plant found in Central and South American rain forests.
The exhibit also traces the roots of chocolate to its unlikely beginning: as a bitter, probably bad-tasting drink used by the ancient Mayans for ceremonial purposes. The Aztecs used it, too. Then, European explorers brought the beans back to Europe, where they were refined and turned into the candy and cake filling we know so well now.
The museum exhibit has something for nearly all senses: videos, artifacts and replicas, antique chocolate tins, exhibits of classic magazine advertising and wrappers for such childhood favorites as Milky Way and 3 Musketeers, even smells of both the beans and the chocolate.
Free samples, however, are saved for special occasions, known as "Chocolate Sundays." The first was held on Day 2 of the exhibit, with treats catered by the Classic on Noble restaurant.
The large exhibit actually overflows the exhibit hall and even takes up nearly the entire lobby. The museum closed for all of the week before the exhibit opened--or if you prefer, dessert was served--January 29.
For those who are left with a craving on a non-Chocolate Sunday, the gift shop has chocolates and chocolate fudge, even chocolate lotions and bath salts and a chocolate game.
"The Chocolate Exhibit" will run through May 22. Tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for children ages 4 through 17 (younger children are admitted free).
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
ANNISTON, AL (WBRC) - Anniston's Museum of Natural History is serving up its biggest, tastiest exhibit ever: an exhibit devoted to the science and history of chocolate.
"The Chocolate Exhibit," produced by the Field Museum of Chicago, opened Saturday, January 29, in a museum usually known for its fossils, mummies, plants and its collection of birds.
Still, the museum's marketing director, Margie Conner, says the exhibit fits the museum perfectly.
"The plant is called theobroma cacao, and chocolate's made from the seeds of, basically the fruit of this tree," says Conner, about the plant found in Central and South American rain forests.
The exhibit also traces the roots of chocolate to its unlikely beginning: as a bitter, probably bad-tasting drink used by the ancient Mayans for ceremonial purposes. The Aztecs used it, too. Then, European explorers brought the beans back to Europe, where they were refined and turned into the candy and cake filling we know so well now.
The museum exhibit has something for nearly all senses: videos, artifacts and replicas, antique chocolate tins, exhibits of classic magazine advertising and wrappers for such childhood favorites as Milky Way and 3 Musketeers, even smells of both the beans and the chocolate.
Free samples, however, are saved for special occasions, known as "Chocolate Sundays." The first was held on Day 2 of the exhibit, with treats catered by the Classic on Noble restaurant.
The large exhibit actually overflows the exhibit hall and even takes up nearly the entire lobby. The museum closed for all of the week before the exhibit opened--or if you prefer, dessert was served--January 29.
For those who are left with a craving on a non-Chocolate Sunday, the gift shop has chocolates and chocolate fudge, even chocolate lotions and bath salts and a chocolate game.
"The Chocolate Exhibit" will run through May 22. Tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for children ages 4 through 17 (younger children are admitted free).
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Attorneys argue for refunds from second occupational tax
JEFFERSON COUNTY, AL (WBRC) – Montgomery Circuit Court Judge Charles Price heard arguments on Tuesday from attorneys over whether refunds should be issued from the strike down of the second Jefferson County occupational tax.
Price’s original ruling in January of 2010 struck down the tax and did not order any refunds. The attorneys suing the county are questioning why the county was able to spend the money from the tax if the judge had ruled it illegal.
County attorneys say the refunds could seriously harm the county. Judge Price says he does not care about the harm to the county and will rule based on the law.
Price’s decision is expected to come in two weeks.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Price’s original ruling in January of 2010 struck down the tax and did not order any refunds. The attorneys suing the county are questioning why the county was able to spend the money from the tax if the judge had ruled it illegal.
County attorneys say the refunds could seriously harm the county. Judge Price says he does not care about the harm to the county and will rule based on the law.
Price’s decision is expected to come in two weeks.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
18-wheeler catches fire on I-20
PELL CITY, AL (WBRC) - A traffic nightmare on Interstate 20 happened on Friday morning when an 18-wheeler caught fire in the west bound lanes near the Pell City exit. It happened around 6:00 a.m.
The fire shut down two of the west bound lanes, backing up traffic for miles.
State troopers say no one was injured.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The fire shut down two of the west bound lanes, backing up traffic for miles.
State troopers say no one was injured.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Man receives 5-year sentence for setting church fires
GARDENDALE, AL (WBRC) - Donny Ray Horton, of Georgia, has been sentenced to five years in prison for mail fraud and arson connected to two fires at a Gardendale church.
The fires happened last April.
According to court documents, Horton took a $78,000 deposit to install seating in the church and then twice set fires to delay installation because he never ordered the seats.
A judge also ordered Horton to pay more than $400,000 in fines and restitution.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The fires happened last April.
According to court documents, Horton took a $78,000 deposit to install seating in the church and then twice set fires to delay installation because he never ordered the seats.
A judge also ordered Horton to pay more than $400,000 in fines and restitution.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Police searching for robbery suspect near Mount Olive Road
MORRIS, AL (WBRC) – Authorities are searching for a suspect in connection to a robbery that occurred Friday morning at a Dollar General in Morris.
Officers say two men entered the store around 10:00 a.m. and forced the manager to open the safe. The two injured the manager before leaving the store with an undetermined amount of money.
The suspects were stopped by Jefferson County deputies only a short distance from the store on Mount Olive Road. One suspect was taken into custody, but the other fled on foot.
Jefferson County deputies and other local police departments are currently searching the area for the suspect.
If you have any information, call 647-0596.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Officers say two men entered the store around 10:00 a.m. and forced the manager to open the safe. The two injured the manager before leaving the store with an undetermined amount of money.
The suspects were stopped by Jefferson County deputies only a short distance from the store on Mount Olive Road. One suspect was taken into custody, but the other fled on foot.
Jefferson County deputies and other local police departments are currently searching the area for the suspect.
If you have any information, call 647-0596.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Thieves removing city property from the streets
By Sherea Harris
LEEDS, AL (WBRC) - FOX6 has told viewers about tailgates that were stolen from trucks in Birmingham. The suspects are accused of selling the stolen property at scrap yards. Now there's a similar crime in the city of Leeds.
It's a bit unusual, but folks are going around the city stealing manhole covers over stormwater drains on sidewalks. Police say it's another case of desperate people trying to get quick cash. Fifteen manhole covers have been reported stolen around Leeds.
The iron covers weigh up to 300 pounds and police say thieves are getting cash scrap yard businesses.
The city is offering a $1,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest and conviction of those stealing and buying the covers. There are signs around town about the reward money.
Each cover costs the city thousands to replace but Mayor Eric Patterson says there's a more serious and dangerous matter at hand.
"People steal them at night and in the day a kid may be walking to school and walk right off in them. It's ridiculous. For a few dollars," said Mayor Patterson.
Patterson hopes scrap yard businesses will help police.
"They should know they are buying something that's been stolen. That's just like the tailgate problem you've heard about. They (scrap yard businesses) got a tip that they were bringing tailgates to scrap yards and that scrap yard did the right thing and told," said Mayor Patterson.
The reward money has folks talking. Patterson says police have gotten tips and are working leads. It's believed more than one person is stealing the covers because of how much they weigh.
If you know anything that can help police, the number to call is 699-2581.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
LEEDS, AL (WBRC) - FOX6 has told viewers about tailgates that were stolen from trucks in Birmingham. The suspects are accused of selling the stolen property at scrap yards. Now there's a similar crime in the city of Leeds.
It's a bit unusual, but folks are going around the city stealing manhole covers over stormwater drains on sidewalks. Police say it's another case of desperate people trying to get quick cash. Fifteen manhole covers have been reported stolen around Leeds.
The iron covers weigh up to 300 pounds and police say thieves are getting cash scrap yard businesses.
The city is offering a $1,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest and conviction of those stealing and buying the covers. There are signs around town about the reward money.
Each cover costs the city thousands to replace but Mayor Eric Patterson says there's a more serious and dangerous matter at hand.
"People steal them at night and in the day a kid may be walking to school and walk right off in them. It's ridiculous. For a few dollars," said Mayor Patterson.
Patterson hopes scrap yard businesses will help police.
"They should know they are buying something that's been stolen. That's just like the tailgate problem you've heard about. They (scrap yard businesses) got a tip that they were bringing tailgates to scrap yards and that scrap yard did the right thing and told," said Mayor Patterson.
The reward money has folks talking. Patterson says police have gotten tips and are working leads. It's believed more than one person is stealing the covers because of how much they weigh.
If you know anything that can help police, the number to call is 699-2581.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Scale Back Alabama fully underway
By Emily Luxen
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) - The fifth year of Scale Back Alabama is underway and participants across the state are already working hard to lose weight.
The contest puts adults in teams of four, with a goal of each person losing 10 pounds in 10 weeks. Progress is monitored. If participants accomplish their goals, they will be entered in a drawing to win $4000.
One team of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama employees called "Mission Slimpossible" has already been out walking. They said they plan to walk daily, eat healthier, drink lots of water, and keep an eye on each other.
"It's always motivating to have someone with the same mission you have," said team member Rita Davis. "We will keep tabs on each other all week long."
Team members agree the process can be a lot of fun, and the first step towards living overall healthier lives.
"We are on a mission to be slim and healthy, and Scale Back Alabama gives us the opportunity to support each other in a team environment," said team member Amy Russell.
Scale Back Alabama organizers say the numbers prove the program works. Over the last four years, participants have lost a total of 600,000 pounds.
Last year alone, 30,000 people participated and lost 200,000 pounds. Organizers said it is a big accomplishment for a state that has consistently high levels of obesity, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) - The fifth year of Scale Back Alabama is underway and participants across the state are already working hard to lose weight.
The contest puts adults in teams of four, with a goal of each person losing 10 pounds in 10 weeks. Progress is monitored. If participants accomplish their goals, they will be entered in a drawing to win $4000.
One team of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama employees called "Mission Slimpossible" has already been out walking. They said they plan to walk daily, eat healthier, drink lots of water, and keep an eye on each other.
"It's always motivating to have someone with the same mission you have," said team member Rita Davis. "We will keep tabs on each other all week long."
Team members agree the process can be a lot of fun, and the first step towards living overall healthier lives.
"We are on a mission to be slim and healthy, and Scale Back Alabama gives us the opportunity to support each other in a team environment," said team member Amy Russell.
Scale Back Alabama organizers say the numbers prove the program works. Over the last four years, participants have lost a total of 600,000 pounds.
Last year alone, 30,000 people participated and lost 200,000 pounds. Organizers said it is a big accomplishment for a state that has consistently high levels of obesity, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Changes made to make Birmingham more handicap-accessible
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The city of Birmingham is taking two steps Thursday in making the city more accessible to all residents. They are opening up a new entrance to city hall and announcing the arrival of new paratransit buses. Both will help make life easier for people in Birmingham living with disabilities.
The ribbon cutting at city hall ushered in a new universally accessible entry way that is in compliance with the American’s with Disabilities Act. There are no stairs to access the doorway and there is a push button opener for the doors.
Fifteen years ago the city was cited for not being accessible to all of its citizens. At that time, it was estimated that it would take up to $60 million to get the city up to the ADA standards. The remodeled city hall is one of the last phases of the project and disabled citizens say it is one of the most important.
"If it wasn't accessible, we couldn't get in and how are we going to tell the people of the city about anything else in the city if we can't get in our own city?" said Xaveria Anderson.
"It’s no easy task for a city to come up with that kind of money,” stated Mayor Bell on the new addition. “So we had to do it over a period of time and this last phase here is one that took some money, but we're proud of the fact that we're now in compliance with people getting in and out of city hall."
The city also announced the arrival of new paratransit buses today. The buses are for riders who cannot get on or off other BJCTA buses because of a disability.
Thirty new buses will roll out as possible. These are to replace old buses that were breaking down constantly.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The ribbon cutting at city hall ushered in a new universally accessible entry way that is in compliance with the American’s with Disabilities Act. There are no stairs to access the doorway and there is a push button opener for the doors.
Fifteen years ago the city was cited for not being accessible to all of its citizens. At that time, it was estimated that it would take up to $60 million to get the city up to the ADA standards. The remodeled city hall is one of the last phases of the project and disabled citizens say it is one of the most important.
"If it wasn't accessible, we couldn't get in and how are we going to tell the people of the city about anything else in the city if we can't get in our own city?" said Xaveria Anderson.
"It’s no easy task for a city to come up with that kind of money,” stated Mayor Bell on the new addition. “So we had to do it over a period of time and this last phase here is one that took some money, but we're proud of the fact that we're now in compliance with people getting in and out of city hall."
The city also announced the arrival of new paratransit buses today. The buses are for riders who cannot get on or off other BJCTA buses because of a disability.
Thirty new buses will roll out as possible. These are to replace old buses that were breaking down constantly.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Mayor Bell looking to improve Legion Field
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham Mayor William Bell is focusing on improving Legion Field.
Mayor Bell says he has been in talks with two out-of-state colleges that are interested in playing a football game at the stadium.
He is asking the city for a list of improvements needed to be made to the stadium.
So far, Bell is not releasing any numbers as to how much it would cost to fix up the “Old Gray Lady.”
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Mayor Bell says he has been in talks with two out-of-state colleges that are interested in playing a football game at the stadium.
He is asking the city for a list of improvements needed to be made to the stadium.
So far, Bell is not releasing any numbers as to how much it would cost to fix up the “Old Gray Lady.”
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Multiple car accident caused by ice
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) - Wintery conditions caused a major traffic back up on Interstate 65 south on Thursday morning.
Hoover police say ice caused three or four cars to slide into each other. It happened around 6:00 a.m. near the highway 31 exit.
There is no word of any injuries.
At one point, traffic was backed past the Oxmoor road exit.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Hoover police say ice caused three or four cars to slide into each other. It happened around 6:00 a.m. near the highway 31 exit.
There is no word of any injuries.
At one point, traffic was backed past the Oxmoor road exit.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Juan Williams offers free lecture in Birmingham
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Fox News political analyst and former NPR host Juan Williams is holding a free lecture Thursday night in Birmingham.
It is part of UAB's Community Week, the school's annual celebration of campus diversity.
That lecture begins at 6:00 p.m. at the Hill Center Alumni Auditorium at 1400 University Boulevard.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
It is part of UAB's Community Week, the school's annual celebration of campus diversity.
That lecture begins at 6:00 p.m. at the Hill Center Alumni Auditorium at 1400 University Boulevard.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Hyundai announces record profits
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - Hyundai, which operates a plant in Montgomery, is reporting record profits.
During the last three months of 2010 sales increased 48% for the carmaker. Hyundai earned $1.3 billion during the three months ending December 31st. Sales rose three percent, an all-time high.
The Hyundai plant in Montgomery is currently producing 2011 Elantras.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
During the last three months of 2010 sales increased 48% for the carmaker. Hyundai earned $1.3 billion during the three months ending December 31st. Sales rose three percent, an all-time high.
The Hyundai plant in Montgomery is currently producing 2011 Elantras.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Four Erwin HS students arrested for attempted murder
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Four students from Erwin High School were arrested Wednesday afternoon in connection with an attempted murder.
Birmingham Police, in a statement Wednesday afternoon to FOX6 News, said the four students were arrested at approximately 12:30 p.m. at Erwin High School.
Homicide investigators said they found the suspects were involved in an altercation at a teen nightclub that later moved to another location where the suspects fired a handgun and assault rifle at several subjects. No one was hurt during the incident.
Police did not identify the four suspects, except to say they are juveniles and are each charged with attempted murder, discharging a firearm into an occupied dwelling, and discharging a firearm into an unoccupied vehicle.
The suspects were in the custody of the Jefferson County Juvenile Court.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham Police, in a statement Wednesday afternoon to FOX6 News, said the four students were arrested at approximately 12:30 p.m. at Erwin High School.
Homicide investigators said they found the suspects were involved in an altercation at a teen nightclub that later moved to another location where the suspects fired a handgun and assault rifle at several subjects. No one was hurt during the incident.
Police did not identify the four suspects, except to say they are juveniles and are each charged with attempted murder, discharging a firearm into an occupied dwelling, and discharging a firearm into an unoccupied vehicle.
The suspects were in the custody of the Jefferson County Juvenile Court.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Former AG Troy King announces new law firm
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) – Former Alabama Attorney General Troy King will soon be returning to practicing law in the private sector.
On Wednesday, King announced the formation of his new law firm, King & Nix.
He is joined by attorney H.E. (Chip) Nix, who has represented King in the past.
The new law firm plans to “represent clients in litigated cases and before governmental departments, agencies and boards.”
“I have always been proud to fight for the people of Alabama as a group. As I begin this new chapter of my career, I will continue to do so,” said King in his press release.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
On Wednesday, King announced the formation of his new law firm, King & Nix.
He is joined by attorney H.E. (Chip) Nix, who has represented King in the past.
The new law firm plans to “represent clients in litigated cases and before governmental departments, agencies and boards.”
“I have always been proud to fight for the people of Alabama as a group. As I begin this new chapter of my career, I will continue to do so,” said King in his press release.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Fire erupts in Homewood hotel
HOMEWOOD, AL (WBRC) – A fire at a Homewood hotel erupted on Wednesday morning, just ten days after the hotel dealt with a previous fire. Homewood firefighters responded to the Rodeway Inns and Suites on Oxmoor Road early Wednesday morning around 4:00 a.m.
Investigators say the fire began in the building’s elevator shaft and spread to the 4th floor, filling the 1st, 2nd and 3rd floors with smoke.
This fire comes after the hotel suffered a fire ten days ago on January 16th. Investigators say the fires are not related, but both are under investigation.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Investigators say the fire began in the building’s elevator shaft and spread to the 4th floor, filling the 1st, 2nd and 3rd floors with smoke.
This fire comes after the hotel suffered a fire ten days ago on January 16th. Investigators say the fires are not related, but both are under investigation.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Birmingham Schools narrowly favor "Teach for America"
By Sherea Harris
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham City School board members voted 5-4 to hire teachers from the "Teach for America" program.
The program places recent college graduates in under-performing schools.
Board member Tyrone Belcher is concerned about the school making what he calls a big mistake.
Belcher says, "I don't like it. Until we get further approval and do some more thinking on this." Board members against the program didn't believe the school system could afford it at a time when it's facing a budget shortfall.
The school system will pay the teachers a normal salary, plus an extra $5K per teacher.
Superintendent Craig Witherspoon says the program has been successful in other urban areas and the money is there for it, which includes possible federal dollars.
"Ultimately, we feel this is a way to infuse this particular program into what's going on in the schools that need improvement," said Dr. Witherspoon.
AEA spokesperson Lance Hyche says this is another example of the board being irresponsible with finances. Hyche asks, "Why not take the teachers that we have in our district and make them better. We all know that 30 million dollars in the whole is a fact. The state is going to declare proration and make deeper financial cuts, but the board decided to vote tonight on an experimental plan that won't work."
Dr. Witherspoon contends there will be no layoffs to make room for "Teach for America" teachers, which was a concern.
"Teach for America" will join Birmingham next school year.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham City School board members voted 5-4 to hire teachers from the "Teach for America" program.
The program places recent college graduates in under-performing schools.
Board member Tyrone Belcher is concerned about the school making what he calls a big mistake.
Belcher says, "I don't like it. Until we get further approval and do some more thinking on this." Board members against the program didn't believe the school system could afford it at a time when it's facing a budget shortfall.
The school system will pay the teachers a normal salary, plus an extra $5K per teacher.
Superintendent Craig Witherspoon says the program has been successful in other urban areas and the money is there for it, which includes possible federal dollars.
"Ultimately, we feel this is a way to infuse this particular program into what's going on in the schools that need improvement," said Dr. Witherspoon.
AEA spokesperson Lance Hyche says this is another example of the board being irresponsible with finances. Hyche asks, "Why not take the teachers that we have in our district and make them better. We all know that 30 million dollars in the whole is a fact. The state is going to declare proration and make deeper financial cuts, but the board decided to vote tonight on an experimental plan that won't work."
Dr. Witherspoon contends there will be no layoffs to make room for "Teach for America" teachers, which was a concern.
"Teach for America" will join Birmingham next school year.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuscaloosa superintendent to take another job
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - Tuscaloosa City Schools superintendent, Dr. Joyce Levey, has elected not to renew her contract. She will take a paid leave of absence from February 1st to June 1st.
Levey will then take over a new job as the director of grants writing for Tuscaloosa City Schools.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Levey will then take over a new job as the director of grants writing for Tuscaloosa City Schools.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Controversy arises after Vestavia turns down Jimmie Hale
VESTAVIA HILLS, AL (WBRC) - There is some angry reaction Tuesday to the decision by the Vestavia Hills City Council Monday not to allow a Jimmie Hale Mission thrift store on Highway 31. Shoppers who live outside the city say they may decide not to shop in Vestavia anymore as a result of the decision.
Mayor Alberto Zaragoza was asked if he was concerned when informed of comments on the MyFoxAL.com and FOX6 NEWS' Facebook page of threats to avoid his city.
"I think it does, anytime you have people say they're not going to come into Vestavia Hills and shop because we think we're upper-crust people," Zaragoza said.
FOX6 showed Facebook and MyFoxAL.com comments about Monday's decision to the mayor.
There are comments like "Sounds like one class of people looking down on another class of people" and "This is a dark day for Vestavia Hills. It's always better for a community to be charitable."
Another post reads "Why should 'certain type of folk' continue to shop and live in Vestavia? There are plenty of other places for us 'po' folks who may need to shop at thrift stores to spend our money."
The mayor says those comments concern him. But he thinks the perception of the city looking down its nose at the mission is wrong. He believes the opposition was motivated by a desire to revitalize the whole Highway 31 corridor.
"The large majority of our residents were saying "if we're going to do that, let's plan it and see what we can get in here on the upper side of retail," said Zaragoza.
"You would take that into consideration because if it was just going to be to raise money for charity. I don't see anything wrong with that," said Victoria Jones who shops in Vestavia Hills but lives in Homewood. "It would make you reconsider some things and think about maybe shopping somewhere else."
"I wouldn't read too much into it," said Joshua White, a Vestavia Hills resident. "I'm new here. But from what I can tell, there's not much of an air about the place that we exclude someone from that type of environment, so I wouldn't read too much into it."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Mayor Alberto Zaragoza was asked if he was concerned when informed of comments on the MyFoxAL.com and FOX6 NEWS' Facebook page of threats to avoid his city.
"I think it does, anytime you have people say they're not going to come into Vestavia Hills and shop because we think we're upper-crust people," Zaragoza said.
FOX6 showed Facebook and MyFoxAL.com comments about Monday's decision to the mayor.
There are comments like "Sounds like one class of people looking down on another class of people" and "This is a dark day for Vestavia Hills. It's always better for a community to be charitable."
Another post reads "Why should 'certain type of folk' continue to shop and live in Vestavia? There are plenty of other places for us 'po' folks who may need to shop at thrift stores to spend our money."
The mayor says those comments concern him. But he thinks the perception of the city looking down its nose at the mission is wrong. He believes the opposition was motivated by a desire to revitalize the whole Highway 31 corridor.
"The large majority of our residents were saying "if we're going to do that, let's plan it and see what we can get in here on the upper side of retail," said Zaragoza.
"You would take that into consideration because if it was just going to be to raise money for charity. I don't see anything wrong with that," said Victoria Jones who shops in Vestavia Hills but lives in Homewood. "It would make you reconsider some things and think about maybe shopping somewhere else."
"I wouldn't read too much into it," said Joshua White, a Vestavia Hills resident. "I'm new here. But from what I can tell, there's not much of an air about the place that we exclude someone from that type of environment, so I wouldn't read too much into it."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jasper police searching for missing man
JASPER, AL (WBRC) - Jasper police are needing your help in finding a missing man.
Joseph Dale Harbin has been missing since December 11th, when he was last seen at Walker Baptist Medical Center.
Joseph is 5’8” and weighs 160 pounds. e has a tattoo on his inside forearm that says "Joe."
If you have any information, you are asked to call the Jasper Police Department.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Joseph Dale Harbin has been missing since December 11th, when he was last seen at Walker Baptist Medical Center.
Joseph is 5’8” and weighs 160 pounds. e has a tattoo on his inside forearm that says "Joe."
If you have any information, you are asked to call the Jasper Police Department.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Lawsuit to reopen Country Crossing thrown out by judge
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - A federal judge has thrown out a lawsuit aimed at re-opening the Country Crossing Casino.
The suit was filed against former Governor Riley and the commander of his gambling taskforce by a bondholder who is losing money while Country Crossing is closed.
A U.S. district judge threw out the lawsuit saying the bondholder did not have a right to sue because the casino closed voluntarily.
Casino developer and Country Crossing owner Ronnie Gilley was one of eleven people arrested in the statehouse bingo bribery probe.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The suit was filed against former Governor Riley and the commander of his gambling taskforce by a bondholder who is losing money while Country Crossing is closed.
A U.S. district judge threw out the lawsuit saying the bondholder did not have a right to sue because the casino closed voluntarily.
Casino developer and Country Crossing owner Ronnie Gilley was one of eleven people arrested in the statehouse bingo bribery probe.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tax numbers to give idea of proration cuts
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - State educators are waiting on January’s tax numbers to see if our school systems will face proration.
State Superintendent Joe Morton says those numbers are due this time next week. Once the governor has the tax information, he will have a clearer picture about potential cuts.
Superintendent Morton says he has already told all school systems to brace for proration cuts.
Governor Bentley's office says an announcement could come in a few weeks.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
State Superintendent Joe Morton says those numbers are due this time next week. Once the governor has the tax information, he will have a clearer picture about potential cuts.
Superintendent Morton says he has already told all school systems to brace for proration cuts.
Governor Bentley's office says an announcement could come in a few weeks.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
County commissioner calls state senator 'a liar'
By Alan Collins
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County Commissioner George Bowman on Tuesday called State Senator Scott Beason a liar and challenged him to a game of chess.
Bowman made the comments Tuesday morning during a county commission meeting in Bessemer. Bowman told FOX6 News he felt insulted by comments made recently by Beason.
Last week, Beason told FOX6 News he supported creating a seperate corporation to run the Jefferson County sewer department and to refinance a new bond deal. Beason said the county commission "lacked credibility."
Tuesday, Bowman said the comments were an insult to him, the current county commission and county employees. Bowman called Beason "a liar" and challenged him to a game of chess to prove his worth.
"While, in the past, differences were settled with dueling pistols, I am challenging Beason to a game of chess to prove his worth," Bowman said.
After the meeting, FOX6 News contacted Beason for reaction. Beason said his comments last week were basically referring to the past county commission, but he said he still believes a corporation may be needed because investors may not trust the current county commission to run the sewer department or refinance the bond deal.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County Commissioner George Bowman on Tuesday called State Senator Scott Beason a liar and challenged him to a game of chess.
Bowman made the comments Tuesday morning during a county commission meeting in Bessemer. Bowman told FOX6 News he felt insulted by comments made recently by Beason.
Last week, Beason told FOX6 News he supported creating a seperate corporation to run the Jefferson County sewer department and to refinance a new bond deal. Beason said the county commission "lacked credibility."
Tuesday, Bowman said the comments were an insult to him, the current county commission and county employees. Bowman called Beason "a liar" and challenged him to a game of chess to prove his worth.
"While, in the past, differences were settled with dueling pistols, I am challenging Beason to a game of chess to prove his worth," Bowman said.
After the meeting, FOX6 News contacted Beason for reaction. Beason said his comments last week were basically referring to the past county commission, but he said he still believes a corporation may be needed because investors may not trust the current county commission to run the sewer department or refinance the bond deal.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Two arrested in connection to weekend murder
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – The Birmingham Police Department has announced they have taken two men into custody for a weekend shooting that fatally wounded a man.
28-year-old Willie Watts and 20-year-old Abe Burns are charged with the murder of 43-year-old Cedric Ramsey. Ramsey was found dead on Saturday at 1033 17th Street Southwest.
Watts faces an additional charge or discharging a firearm into an occupied dwelling.
Both suspects are being held in the Jefferson County Jail.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
28-year-old Willie Watts and 20-year-old Abe Burns are charged with the murder of 43-year-old Cedric Ramsey. Ramsey was found dead on Saturday at 1033 17th Street Southwest.
Watts faces an additional charge or discharging a firearm into an occupied dwelling.
Both suspects are being held in the Jefferson County Jail.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham City Council to vote on Grants Mill Bridge repairs
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - On Tuesday, the city of Birmingham could okay more than a million dollars to repair the Grants Mill Bridge. That bridge has been closed since 2009.
At their meeting Tuesday, council members will consider spending more than a million dollars to fix the decaying bridge.
The reopening could allow some drivers to cut almost six miles off their commute.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
At their meeting Tuesday, council members will consider spending more than a million dollars to fix the decaying bridge.
The reopening could allow some drivers to cut almost six miles off their commute.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Shirley Sherrod to visit Birmingham
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Shirley Sherrod, the wrongly fired U.S. Department of Agriculture official, is coming to Birmingham and you can see her. The Birmingham Association of Black Journalists is hosting a conversation with Shirley Sherrod on Tuesday.
Comments Sherrod made about race and her feelings on the subject were taken out of context by a conservative blogger. She was quickly fired from her job as an Agriculture Department official after an edited video of her comments was posted on the internet. Eventually, the Obama Administration offered Sherrod a high-level position within the department. She declined the offer.
On Tuesday night, Sherrod will participate in a question and answer session. The event starts at 7:00 p.m. at the Birmingham Museum of Art. It is open to the public.
Tickets are $30 for the main program. A separate VIP reception will follow.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Comments Sherrod made about race and her feelings on the subject were taken out of context by a conservative blogger. She was quickly fired from her job as an Agriculture Department official after an edited video of her comments was posted on the internet. Eventually, the Obama Administration offered Sherrod a high-level position within the department. She declined the offer.
On Tuesday night, Sherrod will participate in a question and answer session. The event starts at 7:00 p.m. at the Birmingham Museum of Art. It is open to the public.
Tickets are $30 for the main program. A separate VIP reception will follow.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Hoover parents meet to hear ways to deal with bullying
By Emily Luxen
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) - Hoover City Schools' officials and parents are fighting back against bullying. The school district hosted the first ever Bullying Prevention Parent Information Night as a way to educate parents about the problem.
The event featured several guest speakers including Tina Meier, the mother of a Missouri teenager who committed suicide after a cyber bullying attack in 2006.
Organizers hope the event taught parents about different types of bullying, how to spot bullying and how to work together to stop it.
"It's important we all get together as parents, schools, and community groups to help kids be resilient and understand how to deal with bullying," said the chairperson of the Bullying Prevention Committee of Hoover Schools, Carissa Anthony.
Officials said parents can look for some common warning signs that may indicate a child is bullied. Here are a few:
- the child has few friends
- seems afraid of going to school
- has lost interest in school work
- suddenly does poorly in school
- child experiences a loss of appetite
- complains of headaches and physical aliments
Hoover parents say bullying is a tricky problem to solve. They would like all the help they can get.
"I don't know much about it. And I guess that is my concern," said Robert Ruckman. "The more I know, the better I can help my children."
"I know it goes on in Hoover schools, so any information we can get on the problem is good information," said Lloyd Baker, Jr..
Hoover City Schools officials plan to put a video version of the event on the district's website so everyone will be able to watch the presentation.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) - Hoover City Schools' officials and parents are fighting back against bullying. The school district hosted the first ever Bullying Prevention Parent Information Night as a way to educate parents about the problem.
The event featured several guest speakers including Tina Meier, the mother of a Missouri teenager who committed suicide after a cyber bullying attack in 2006.
Organizers hope the event taught parents about different types of bullying, how to spot bullying and how to work together to stop it.
"It's important we all get together as parents, schools, and community groups to help kids be resilient and understand how to deal with bullying," said the chairperson of the Bullying Prevention Committee of Hoover Schools, Carissa Anthony.
Officials said parents can look for some common warning signs that may indicate a child is bullied. Here are a few:
- the child has few friends
- seems afraid of going to school
- has lost interest in school work
- suddenly does poorly in school
- child experiences a loss of appetite
- complains of headaches and physical aliments
Hoover parents say bullying is a tricky problem to solve. They would like all the help they can get.
"I don't know much about it. And I guess that is my concern," said Robert Ruckman. "The more I know, the better I can help my children."
"I know it goes on in Hoover schools, so any information we can get on the problem is good information," said Lloyd Baker, Jr..
Hoover City Schools officials plan to put a video version of the event on the district's website so everyone will be able to watch the presentation.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Ruben Studdard announces Birmingham Marathon
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - American Idol winner Ruben Studdard helped Birmingham Mayor William Bell announce the first Ruben Studdard celebration weekend and the Birmingham Marathon during the groundbreaking for the new Westin Hotel and entertainment district on Monday.
The event will take place this coming fall. The race is just one of a series of events that will benefit the Ruben Studdard Foundation for the Advancement of Children in the Music Arts and will include both a full and half marathon.
Ruben says running has become a big part of his health and wellness plan.
Both events are set to start and finish at Railroad Park in downtown Birmingham.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The event will take place this coming fall. The race is just one of a series of events that will benefit the Ruben Studdard Foundation for the Advancement of Children in the Music Arts and will include both a full and half marathon.
Ruben says running has become a big part of his health and wellness plan.
Both events are set to start and finish at Railroad Park in downtown Birmingham.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
New contest offers $50,000 to boost Birmingham
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A contest meant to help boost the city of Birmingham could net you $50-thousand.
The local charity, Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham, has launched "Prize to the Future." All you have to do is suggest an idea for how to develop a city block located next to the Railroad Park.
The specific site is located on 1st Avenue South and Powell Avenue at 18th and 19th Streets. Right now, the location is just a parking lot.
The best idea wins the grand prize.
For more info, visit Prize2theFuture.org.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The local charity, Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham, has launched "Prize to the Future." All you have to do is suggest an idea for how to develop a city block located next to the Railroad Park.
The specific site is located on 1st Avenue South and Powell Avenue at 18th and 19th Streets. Right now, the location is just a parking lot.
The best idea wins the grand prize.
For more info, visit Prize2theFuture.org.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Water main break causes concerns for Mountain Brook neighborhood
MOUNTAIN BROOK, AL (WBRC) - A water main break caused flooding concerns for some homeowners in Mountain Brook.
It happened around 6:00 a.m. on Monday morning in the backyard of a home on Westbury Way.
The water ran for more than an hour before water works employees were able to shut it off.
There is no word on when water will be restored to the neighborhood.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
It happened around 6:00 a.m. on Monday morning in the backyard of a home on Westbury Way.
The water ran for more than an hour before water works employees were able to shut it off.
There is no word on when water will be restored to the neighborhood.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Lobbyists in training over new ethics regulations
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - A new step toward more ethical actions is being taken in Montgomery.
The men and women who influence the bills in the statehouse begin their mandatory ethics training on Monday. The new requirements for lobbyists were among the new regulations passed in the ethics special session.
The 654 people who are officially registered as lobbyists with the State Ethics Commission will get a lesson on the new state laws that limit their spending on elected officials.
Lobbyists who cannot go Monday can still make up training in February and March.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The men and women who influence the bills in the statehouse begin their mandatory ethics training on Monday. The new requirements for lobbyists were among the new regulations passed in the ethics special session.
The 654 people who are officially registered as lobbyists with the State Ethics Commission will get a lesson on the new state laws that limit their spending on elected officials.
Lobbyists who cannot go Monday can still make up training in February and March.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Blaze claims three homes in Birmingham
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham firefighters battled with a massive three alarm fire on Monday morning that burned three houses in the Norwood community.
Firefighters responded to the call on 32nd Street North a little after 1:00 a.m. On the scene, they found two houses on fire with flames spreading to a third.
The home where the fire initially started was under renovation, but all three were vacant.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Firefighters responded to the call on 32nd Street North a little after 1:00 a.m. On the scene, they found two houses on fire with flames spreading to a third.
The home where the fire initially started was under renovation, but all three were vacant.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Groundbreaking to be held on entertainment district, hotel
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The long-awaited groundbreaking on Birmingham’s new entertainment district and hotel will happen on Monday. Mayor William Bell, city council members and BJCC officials will break ground on the $50 million Westin Hotel and $20 million entertainment complex slated to be built next to the Southeastern Conference Headquarters Building.
The 300 new hotel rooms will give the city more than 1,000 hotel rooms downtown. That is considered a key benchmark for convention planners when they are looking at possible locations for big events.
The complex is supposed to take about 18 months to build. It is scheduled to open around October 2012.
The groundbreaking will take place at 11:00 a.m.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The 300 new hotel rooms will give the city more than 1,000 hotel rooms downtown. That is considered a key benchmark for convention planners when they are looking at possible locations for big events.
The complex is supposed to take about 18 months to build. It is scheduled to open around October 2012.
The groundbreaking will take place at 11:00 a.m.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Grants Mill Bridge may reopen in coming months
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The now closed Grants Mill Bridge could re-open in a matter of months.
The Birmingham City Council will vote Tuesday on more than $1 million to fix the decaying bridge. It has been closed since 2009 because the city could not enforce weight restrictions.
The bridge links Birmingham with southeastern Jefferson County and Shelby County.
If funding is approved, the fix will allow drivers to shave almost six miles off their commute that have been added by a detour since the bridge was closed.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The Birmingham City Council will vote Tuesday on more than $1 million to fix the decaying bridge. It has been closed since 2009 because the city could not enforce weight restrictions.
The bridge links Birmingham with southeastern Jefferson County and Shelby County.
If funding is approved, the fix will allow drivers to shave almost six miles off their commute that have been added by a detour since the bridge was closed.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Missing Fairfield woman found safe
FAIRFIELD, AL (WBRC) - A missing Fairfield woman has been found safe.
Fairfield police say Loretta Washington was found safe at the First Light Shelter. She has since been reunited with her family. Her family says she suffers from dementia.
Washington was reported missing after she wandered away from her daughter's home last Sunday.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Fairfield police say Loretta Washington was found safe at the First Light Shelter. She has since been reunited with her family. Her family says she suffers from dementia.
Washington was reported missing after she wandered away from her daughter's home last Sunday.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Police investigating new murder in Birmingham
By Johnathan Hardison
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham Police detectives are investigating the city's latest homicide. It happened around midnight on 17th St. Southwest.
Officers found 43-year-old Cedric Ramsey lying in the second floor walkway at an apartment complex, unresponsive and suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
There are no suspects at this time.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Birmingham Police detectives are investigating the city's latest homicide. It happened around midnight on 17th St. Southwest.
Officers found 43-year-old Cedric Ramsey lying in the second floor walkway at an apartment complex, unresponsive and suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
There are no suspects at this time.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Landmark Woodlawn church to be rebuilt
By Johnathan Hardison
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A landmark in the Woodlawn section of Birmingham is coming back to life. A year and a half ago, the Woodlawn United Methodist Church sanctuary burned to the ground. On Sunday, church members and neighborhood celebrated the historic church's rebirth.
The mental picture of flames shooting out of stainglass windows are a year and a half old, but for members of the church, the memories are still fresh. “It was hard to believe until the pictures came through, and it was pretty evident, it just was really hard, because it had been a church home for me since way back,” said church member Virginia Schmitt.
Way back for Schmitt means 1925, that is when she joined this church and now, at 93-years-old, she will be part of this congregation's new chapter. “Mixed emotions that we had to move to the other sanctuary, but glad we can rebuild,” Schmitt said.
“I never anticipated this early on in ministry, I would help facilitate a project this big, but it took a lot of planning, a lot of seeking and searching,” said new pastor Rev. Matt Lacey. “It was a big task, but we're grateful the day has come.”
Rev. Lacey is on the other end of the age spectrum but he appreciates how important the decision to stay in this community and rebuild is. “It's a very big job, and a very big project. A lot rests on this. Our survival as a church, our growth as a church, but we firmly believe God is moving in this community, and we've decided we will move with God.”
The new sanctuary will be built facing 54th Street, not 1st Avenue like the old one did, and the new building will have plenty of classroom and community meeting space, as well as full-sized gym to try and reach out to the neighborhood around it.
But the new building will have some of the limestone and furnishings from the old sanctuary, a nod to the congregation's bridge it is crossing now from the past into the future.
“Now we have a vision for the future, we have hope of staying in this community and being of service to God in this community,” said building committee member John Somerset.
The church hopes the new building will be open for use in August or September.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A landmark in the Woodlawn section of Birmingham is coming back to life. A year and a half ago, the Woodlawn United Methodist Church sanctuary burned to the ground. On Sunday, church members and neighborhood celebrated the historic church's rebirth.
The mental picture of flames shooting out of stainglass windows are a year and a half old, but for members of the church, the memories are still fresh. “It was hard to believe until the pictures came through, and it was pretty evident, it just was really hard, because it had been a church home for me since way back,” said church member Virginia Schmitt.
Way back for Schmitt means 1925, that is when she joined this church and now, at 93-years-old, she will be part of this congregation's new chapter. “Mixed emotions that we had to move to the other sanctuary, but glad we can rebuild,” Schmitt said.
“I never anticipated this early on in ministry, I would help facilitate a project this big, but it took a lot of planning, a lot of seeking and searching,” said new pastor Rev. Matt Lacey. “It was a big task, but we're grateful the day has come.”
Rev. Lacey is on the other end of the age spectrum but he appreciates how important the decision to stay in this community and rebuild is. “It's a very big job, and a very big project. A lot rests on this. Our survival as a church, our growth as a church, but we firmly believe God is moving in this community, and we've decided we will move with God.”
The new sanctuary will be built facing 54th Street, not 1st Avenue like the old one did, and the new building will have plenty of classroom and community meeting space, as well as full-sized gym to try and reach out to the neighborhood around it.
But the new building will have some of the limestone and furnishings from the old sanctuary, a nod to the congregation's bridge it is crossing now from the past into the future.
“Now we have a vision for the future, we have hope of staying in this community and being of service to God in this community,” said building committee member John Somerset.
The church hopes the new building will be open for use in August or September.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Calhoun County leaders eyeing wastewater treatment project
By Dixon Hayes
Community leaders in Calhoun County say now that the Veterans' Memorial Parkway is almost complete, and already open to traffic, they're ready for their next big project.
They are looking for state, local and federal funding for a major wastewater treatment facility.
"I mean, it's not a sexy topic, but it would be one of the biggest economic development projects in the
county's future for the next 50 years," says U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Saks), who's on board with the idea.
Rogers says residents in areas like Saks would be able to abandon their septic tanks in favor of a sewer system served by the new facility, but says it's especially important in attracting business to the old Fort McClellan Army base.
"McClellan('s current facility) has some sewage capacity for maybe one new tenant, commercial tenant, once the bypass is complete. But if we were to land the big prospect, they wouldn't come because we don't have sewage capability to take them right away," Rogers says.
Anniston Mayor Gene Robinson called for the funding at the Wednesday ceremony that dedicated the Veterans' Memorial Parkway. He said it would be "world class" because of the quality of the Anniston Waterworks.
"It will mean jobs, lots of jobs, without it, industrial development will be limited at McClellan and the 431 corridor," Robinson said.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Community leaders in Calhoun County say now that the Veterans' Memorial Parkway is almost complete, and already open to traffic, they're ready for their next big project.
They are looking for state, local and federal funding for a major wastewater treatment facility.
"I mean, it's not a sexy topic, but it would be one of the biggest economic development projects in the
county's future for the next 50 years," says U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Saks), who's on board with the idea.
Rogers says residents in areas like Saks would be able to abandon their septic tanks in favor of a sewer system served by the new facility, but says it's especially important in attracting business to the old Fort McClellan Army base.
"McClellan('s current facility) has some sewage capacity for maybe one new tenant, commercial tenant, once the bypass is complete. But if we were to land the big prospect, they wouldn't come because we don't have sewage capability to take them right away," Rogers says.
Anniston Mayor Gene Robinson called for the funding at the Wednesday ceremony that dedicated the Veterans' Memorial Parkway. He said it would be "world class" because of the quality of the Anniston Waterworks.
"It will mean jobs, lots of jobs, without it, industrial development will be limited at McClellan and the 431 corridor," Robinson said.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Backyard Blessings aims to prevent hunger in Walker County kids
WALKER COUNTY, AL (WBRC) – A nonprofit organization in Sumiton is making sure needy children do not go hungry on weekends away from school
Backyard Blessings is an organization run by Leneda Jones that gives food to children who might not get to eat over the weekend. Every Friday, children are discreetly given a bag of food that will last them through the weekend. The food is child friendly and non-perishable.
Currently, just under 200 students at Sumiton Elementary/Middle School and T.S. Boyd Elementary School are being helped by the service. Representatives with Backyard Blessings say it costs about $1,000 per week to just help these kids. Now, other Walker County schools are beginning to show interest in the program.
Several organizations have been donating to the cause, including several churches and business. Alabama Power recently donated $1,000.
For more information or to donate, contact Backyard Blessings by writing to:
Backyard Blessings
Po Box 129
Sumiton, AL 35148
You can also call (205) 544-9094, email lenedajones@yahoo.com or visit their Facebook page.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Backyard Blessings is an organization run by Leneda Jones that gives food to children who might not get to eat over the weekend. Every Friday, children are discreetly given a bag of food that will last them through the weekend. The food is child friendly and non-perishable.
Currently, just under 200 students at Sumiton Elementary/Middle School and T.S. Boyd Elementary School are being helped by the service. Representatives with Backyard Blessings say it costs about $1,000 per week to just help these kids. Now, other Walker County schools are beginning to show interest in the program.
Several organizations have been donating to the cause, including several churches and business. Alabama Power recently donated $1,000.
For more information or to donate, contact Backyard Blessings by writing to:
Backyard Blessings
Po Box 129
Sumiton, AL 35148
You can also call (205) 544-9094, email lenedajones@yahoo.com or visit their Facebook page.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
One arrested on suspicion of attempted copper theft from Krispy Kreme roof
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – A man has been taken into custody after he was seen jumping to the roof of the Krispy Kreme on 1st Avenue North in Eastlake.
Around 5:00 a.m. on Friday, a witness reported seeing the man jump to the roof of the Krispy Kreme from an adjacent building. Police responded and could not see on the roof. Officers then called in the fire department to help get a look.
Before authorities could get to the roof, the suspect leapt back to the abandoned building and ran into a nearby neighborhood. Police set up a perimeter and eventually found the suspect hiding underneath an abandoned building.
It is believed that the suspect was planning on stealing copper from the Krispy Kreme. Local business owners have reported several copper thefts in the area and say the abandoned building the suspect was leaping from had been picked clean of copper from its air conditioning units.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Around 5:00 a.m. on Friday, a witness reported seeing the man jump to the roof of the Krispy Kreme from an adjacent building. Police responded and could not see on the roof. Officers then called in the fire department to help get a look.
Before authorities could get to the roof, the suspect leapt back to the abandoned building and ran into a nearby neighborhood. Police set up a perimeter and eventually found the suspect hiding underneath an abandoned building.
It is believed that the suspect was planning on stealing copper from the Krispy Kreme. Local business owners have reported several copper thefts in the area and say the abandoned building the suspect was leaping from had been picked clean of copper from its air conditioning units.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Spencer Bachus pushing to repeal healthcare reform
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Sixth District Congressman Spencer Bachus is echoing fellow Republicans in Congress by saying it is time to start over with the healthcare reform law. He joined house Republicans this week in voting to repeal the landmark law passed in 2010.
The repeal is unlikely to succeed in the Democrat-controlled Senate. Still, Bachus favors re-writing the law measure by measure. He says that would mean keeping popular measures like coverage for people with pre-existing conditions and increasing the coverage age for adult children to 26. Bachus also backs a proposal to allow people to shop for coverage across state lines.
“This bill has so many snakes in it. So many problems in it,” said Bachus in an interview on Good Day Alabama on Friday morning. “So much federal government command and control. We say wipe it out and start over with most of those things that you and I and most of the American people say we agree on.”
Bachus is chairman of the House Financial Services Committee. He says he has similar concerns with last year's reform of the banking industry. Bachus says the law over-reaches and interferes with the relationship between consumers and bankers.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The repeal is unlikely to succeed in the Democrat-controlled Senate. Still, Bachus favors re-writing the law measure by measure. He says that would mean keeping popular measures like coverage for people with pre-existing conditions and increasing the coverage age for adult children to 26. Bachus also backs a proposal to allow people to shop for coverage across state lines.
“This bill has so many snakes in it. So many problems in it,” said Bachus in an interview on Good Day Alabama on Friday morning. “So much federal government command and control. We say wipe it out and start over with most of those things that you and I and most of the American people say we agree on.”
Bachus is chairman of the House Financial Services Committee. He says he has similar concerns with last year's reform of the banking industry. Bachus says the law over-reaches and interferes with the relationship between consumers and bankers.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Local schools preparing for proration
JEFFERSON COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - A team of Jefferson County administrators, principals and staffers has been set up to address proration concerns.
Jefferson County Superintendent Dr. Phillip Hammonds says the fear is cuts of anywhere from 2.5% to 4%. He adds that equals millions of dollars that would be taken from the school system's budget.
The team is already looking for ways to cut costs.
Tuscaloosa City Schools are facing similar money woes. They may lose 50 to 75 positions for year 2012. These are just projections brought to the school board's attention for the first time on Thursday night. The numbers are based on the budget and the possibility of proration as well as losing the $7 million in federal stimulus money that runs out September 30th.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jefferson County Superintendent Dr. Phillip Hammonds says the fear is cuts of anywhere from 2.5% to 4%. He adds that equals millions of dollars that would be taken from the school system's budget.
The team is already looking for ways to cut costs.
Tuscaloosa City Schools are facing similar money woes. They may lose 50 to 75 positions for year 2012. These are just projections brought to the school board's attention for the first time on Thursday night. The numbers are based on the budget and the possibility of proration as well as losing the $7 million in federal stimulus money that runs out September 30th.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuscaloosa City Schools name dates for snow day make up
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - Tuscaloosa City Schools have two snow days to make up.
On Thursday night, the school board decided to make up those days on February 21st (President's Day) and April 22nd.
Tuscaloosa school leaders say if there is more winter weather, students will have to make those up at the end of the year.
"Since we have no more allocated days, it will be an additional day outside of our school year that we will have to make up," said Tuscaloosa Superintendent Dr. Joyce Levey.
Jefferson County has also exhausted all of its snow days. If they have to cancel classes again, administrators will look at having school on Saturday.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
On Thursday night, the school board decided to make up those days on February 21st (President's Day) and April 22nd.
Tuscaloosa school leaders say if there is more winter weather, students will have to make those up at the end of the year.
"Since we have no more allocated days, it will be an additional day outside of our school year that we will have to make up," said Tuscaloosa Superintendent Dr. Joyce Levey.
Jefferson County has also exhausted all of its snow days. If they have to cancel classes again, administrators will look at having school on Saturday.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Gas prices on the rise at an unusual time
By Sherea Harris
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Have you noticed gas prices? In the Birmingham area, prices are near or above $3/gal for regular unleaded.
An industry expert says this is unusual for January and February when demand is the lowest.
But crude oil prices have shot up and here's why. Of course, supply and demand has something to do with the change.
Experts say globally demand is up for crude oil, which has impacted gas prices in America. And the closure of the trans-Alaskan Pipeline because of a leak has caused an increase in crude oil prices.
Businesses are immediately impacted. John Brewer owns Steak-Out in Homewood and said, "There's the potential for obviously more cost. The drivers are going to lose because they pay for their own gas."
Some drivers are frustrated because they didn't expect prices to be at $3/gal so soon.
Crystal Jennings drives. She believes, "You just need to be prepared budget ourselves accordingly. You can either put $5 in or $20. Whatever it takes to get you where you want to go."
Neal Wallace also drives and said, "It's hard. It hits you in the pocket."
Alabama's average price regular unleaded is $2.99/gal. We can expect that to climb in the coming days.
Experts believe this escalation should not last long.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Have you noticed gas prices? In the Birmingham area, prices are near or above $3/gal for regular unleaded.
An industry expert says this is unusual for January and February when demand is the lowest.
But crude oil prices have shot up and here's why. Of course, supply and demand has something to do with the change.
Experts say globally demand is up for crude oil, which has impacted gas prices in America. And the closure of the trans-Alaskan Pipeline because of a leak has caused an increase in crude oil prices.
Businesses are immediately impacted. John Brewer owns Steak-Out in Homewood and said, "There's the potential for obviously more cost. The drivers are going to lose because they pay for their own gas."
Some drivers are frustrated because they didn't expect prices to be at $3/gal so soon.
Crystal Jennings drives. She believes, "You just need to be prepared budget ourselves accordingly. You can either put $5 in or $20. Whatever it takes to get you where you want to go."
Neal Wallace also drives and said, "It's hard. It hits you in the pocket."
Alabama's average price regular unleaded is $2.99/gal. We can expect that to climb in the coming days.
Experts believe this escalation should not last long.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Changing your health is changing your diet
By Emily Luxen
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Alabama is the second fattest state in the country, and heart disease is a common problem. However, a new study conducted by the University of Oxford found it is possible to reduce your risk and live longer by simply changing your diet.
The study found that people who ate at least eight portions of fruits and vegetables everyday had a 22% lower risk of dying from heart disease as opposed to those who consumed only two or fewer portions.
Nutritionist Beth Kitchin said eight servings may sound intimidating, but it is possible.
"There are some tricky things we can do to help," said Kitchin. "For example, drink 100% fruit juice, eat fresh, cooked or dried fruit, and serving size matters. If you eat a huge salad you've got two servings of veggies right there."
Kitchin says a serving size is equal to one small apple, half a grapefruit, one half cup of cooked carrots or a small potato. Most small bottles of 100% fruit juice are equal to two servings.
"I think what I would tell people is try and get more," said Kitchin. "Don't worry about the number eight. Start with where you are. If you can get one or two more servings a day most days, you're doing pretty well."
Numerous studies show that eating more fruits and vegetables can lower your cholesterol, blood pressure and your risk of heart disease and diabetes.
The study was published in the European Heart Journal. The study followed over 300,000 participants for more than 8 years.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Alabama is the second fattest state in the country, and heart disease is a common problem. However, a new study conducted by the University of Oxford found it is possible to reduce your risk and live longer by simply changing your diet.
The study found that people who ate at least eight portions of fruits and vegetables everyday had a 22% lower risk of dying from heart disease as opposed to those who consumed only two or fewer portions.
Nutritionist Beth Kitchin said eight servings may sound intimidating, but it is possible.
"There are some tricky things we can do to help," said Kitchin. "For example, drink 100% fruit juice, eat fresh, cooked or dried fruit, and serving size matters. If you eat a huge salad you've got two servings of veggies right there."
Kitchin says a serving size is equal to one small apple, half a grapefruit, one half cup of cooked carrots or a small potato. Most small bottles of 100% fruit juice are equal to two servings.
"I think what I would tell people is try and get more," said Kitchin. "Don't worry about the number eight. Start with where you are. If you can get one or two more servings a day most days, you're doing pretty well."
Numerous studies show that eating more fruits and vegetables can lower your cholesterol, blood pressure and your risk of heart disease and diabetes.
The study was published in the European Heart Journal. The study followed over 300,000 participants for more than 8 years.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Convicted murderer gets two life sentences after plea deal
CALHOUN COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - A Calhoun County man has been sentenced after pleading guilty to murder.
In 2008, Skylar Allen stabbed a man to death in Ohatchee. The victim had hired Allen to do yard work.
Allen was originally charged with capital murder, but a plea deal allowed him to be sentenced to two life sentences, plus 30 years. This means Allen can request parole in a few years from now.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
In 2008, Skylar Allen stabbed a man to death in Ohatchee. The victim had hired Allen to do yard work.
Allen was originally charged with capital murder, but a plea deal allowed him to be sentenced to two life sentences, plus 30 years. This means Allen can request parole in a few years from now.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Two Tuscaloosa men arrested on cocaine trafficking charges
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - A joint investigation by narcotics officers and the Alabama Bureau of Investigation led to two arrests.
The suspects are identified as Roderick Gardner and Marcus Little. Both Tuscaloosa men face cocaine trafficking charges.
Investigators say a six week investigation led to the discovery of a kilo of cocaine at one suspect's home and guns, cash and drugs found at the other's.
The DEA is prosecuting the case.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The suspects are identified as Roderick Gardner and Marcus Little. Both Tuscaloosa men face cocaine trafficking charges.
Investigators say a six week investigation led to the discovery of a kilo of cocaine at one suspect's home and guns, cash and drugs found at the other's.
The DEA is prosecuting the case.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The Birmingham Police Department says it has made an arrest in connection to three robberies that occurred earlier this month.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The Birmingham Police Department says it has made an arrest in connection to three robberies that occurred earlier this month.
19-year-old Victrick Cooper has been charged with two robberies at the Suit Warehouse on 6th Avenue Southwest on January 12th and one robbery on January 6th on Goldwire Street Southwest.
Cooper is facing three 1st degree robbery charges.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
19-year-old Victrick Cooper has been charged with two robberies at the Suit Warehouse on 6th Avenue Southwest on January 12th and one robbery on January 6th on Goldwire Street Southwest.
Cooper is facing three 1st degree robbery charges.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Chilton County 911 dispatcher accused of enticing minors
JEFFERSON COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - A Chilton County 9-1-1 dispatcher is in jail and accused of trying to entice minors for sex.
Cameron Lee Emerick was arrested earlier this month by agents with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Officers say Emerick thought he was about to meet two girls, ages 14 and 11.
Emerick was booked in the Jefferson County Jail, but could be moved to another facility.
Emerick denies the charges.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Cameron Lee Emerick was arrested earlier this month by agents with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Officers say Emerick thought he was about to meet two girls, ages 14 and 11.
Emerick was booked in the Jefferson County Jail, but could be moved to another facility.
Emerick denies the charges.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Mysterious liquid causes homes to be evacuated
ST. CLAIR COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - Authorities in St. Clair County have ordered evacuations after discovering a mysterious liquid they feel might be an explosive.
There are very few details are being released, but the ATF and other agencies are on the scene behind a home in Moody on Old Hannah Road. The liquid in question was found in an outdoor building located behind the residence. Authorities are not saying how they discovered the liquid.
The ATF plan is to dig a 12-20 foot hole in the yard and detonate the liquid. An evacuation has been ordered in a 1500 square foot area around the detonation site.
The Red Cross has set up a site in Moody for evacuees.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
There are very few details are being released, but the ATF and other agencies are on the scene behind a home in Moody on Old Hannah Road. The liquid in question was found in an outdoor building located behind the residence. Authorities are not saying how they discovered the liquid.
The ATF plan is to dig a 12-20 foot hole in the yard and detonate the liquid. An evacuation has been ordered in a 1500 square foot area around the detonation site.
The Red Cross has set up a site in Moody for evacuees.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Bentley to meet with religious leaders over controversial remarks
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) – Newly-elected Governor Robert Bentley is planning to meet with Alabama religious leaders after making remarks that were found offensive to some.
On Monday during a Martin Luther King Day event, Bentley stated that anyone who was not a Christian was not his brother or sister. He also said that he would like for others to accept Christ so that he could be their brother.
Bentley’s communication director, Rebekah Caldwell Mason, announced that Bentley will be meeting with many religious leaders from Alabama in Montgomery at the governor’s office. Leaders from Birmingham attending the meeting include Rabbi Johnathan Miller from Temple Emanu-el and Stephen Jones from Southside Baptist Church.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
On Monday during a Martin Luther King Day event, Bentley stated that anyone who was not a Christian was not his brother or sister. He also said that he would like for others to accept Christ so that he could be their brother.
Bentley’s communication director, Rebekah Caldwell Mason, announced that Bentley will be meeting with many religious leaders from Alabama in Montgomery at the governor’s office. Leaders from Birmingham attending the meeting include Rabbi Johnathan Miller from Temple Emanu-el and Stephen Jones from Southside Baptist Church.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
E-bingo lobbyist to report to prison
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - "Country Crossing" lobbyist Jarrod Massey is scheduled to report to prison on Wednesday.
Massey pleaded guilty to bribing state lawmakers for their votes in favor of pro-gambling legislation.
Massey has not been sentenced, but wants to begin serving his time early.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Massey pleaded guilty to bribing state lawmakers for their votes in favor of pro-gambling legislation.
Massey has not been sentenced, but wants to begin serving his time early.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Former policemen found innocent, want jobs back
By Jonathan Hardison
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Should the 5 fired Birmingham police officers involved in the alleged beating of a suspect get their jobs back?
The officers are asking the Jefferson County personnel board for a hearing to be reinstated, and we want to know what you think.
We asked the people these officers would be sworn to protect if they think the men deserve to wear the badge again.
"I don't know about that, I don't know about them getting their jobs back so soon," said Ebony Promartie. "I think they need a little bit more time for the decision, and it needs to be investigated a little more, because that's gonna create a lot of havoc in the city."
"No I don't think so, because it's really obviously clear he's pretty much unconscious," said a man named Kioko. "I can see them being cautious or whatever, but there's too much evidence to show, and I can't really see how they got off. So I would say no, no, no, no."
"It makes you leery of almost all police officers, honestly," said Gerrie Jones. "You don't know. So it's best to be on your P's and Q's."
Jones admits the video could create a stereotype, but she's conflicted about whether 5 careers should be permanently ended by this.
"If it's proven that they were not guilty, I can see a reprimand. It's hard to say about the job because you can lose your job for any reason in the state of Alabama."
"If they really, truly want their jobs back, I think they should go to some type of counseling for mental anguish or whatever the case may be on that," Rubin Tartt. "I think they should at least get a 2nd chance to get their jobs back, but if they get their jobs back and start doing the same thing again, they don't need another chance."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Should the 5 fired Birmingham police officers involved in the alleged beating of a suspect get their jobs back?
The officers are asking the Jefferson County personnel board for a hearing to be reinstated, and we want to know what you think.
We asked the people these officers would be sworn to protect if they think the men deserve to wear the badge again.
"I don't know about that, I don't know about them getting their jobs back so soon," said Ebony Promartie. "I think they need a little bit more time for the decision, and it needs to be investigated a little more, because that's gonna create a lot of havoc in the city."
"No I don't think so, because it's really obviously clear he's pretty much unconscious," said a man named Kioko. "I can see them being cautious or whatever, but there's too much evidence to show, and I can't really see how they got off. So I would say no, no, no, no."
"It makes you leery of almost all police officers, honestly," said Gerrie Jones. "You don't know. So it's best to be on your P's and Q's."
Jones admits the video could create a stereotype, but she's conflicted about whether 5 careers should be permanently ended by this.
"If it's proven that they were not guilty, I can see a reprimand. It's hard to say about the job because you can lose your job for any reason in the state of Alabama."
"If they really, truly want their jobs back, I think they should go to some type of counseling for mental anguish or whatever the case may be on that," Rubin Tartt. "I think they should at least get a 2nd chance to get their jobs back, but if they get their jobs back and start doing the same thing again, they don't need another chance."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuscaloosa resolution to keep post office open
By Kelvin Reynolds
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - The Tuscaloosa City Council votes on a resolution Tuesday to keep one of the city's three post offices open. The U.S. Postal Service announced last year the Alberta City Post Office will close February 26th.
Many in the area say it's needed most by an older population of folks who don't have transportation and walk to it to get their mail and checks. The post office is in the district of Tuscaloosa City Councilman Kip Tyner.
He says they're hoping Sen. Richard Shelby will be able to step in and keep the post office open before the deadline passes.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - The Tuscaloosa City Council votes on a resolution Tuesday to keep one of the city's three post offices open. The U.S. Postal Service announced last year the Alberta City Post Office will close February 26th.
Many in the area say it's needed most by an older population of folks who don't have transportation and walk to it to get their mail and checks. The post office is in the district of Tuscaloosa City Councilman Kip Tyner.
He says they're hoping Sen. Richard Shelby will be able to step in and keep the post office open before the deadline passes.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Two charged with custody offenses in Etowah County
ETOWAH COUNTY, AL (WBRC) – The Etowah County Sheriff’s Department says they have charged two individuals with custody offenses.
49-year-old Billy Eugene Epps, Jr. and 24-year-old Jeffery Lynn Epps are both facing two counts of interference with custody. Deputies say the two men picked up two teenage girls, ages 13 and 14, without their parents’ permission on January 2nd and transported them from Etowah County to Cherokee County.
Allegedly, they gave the teens drugs and took them to several locations before leaving them at a Cherokee County convenience store on January 3rd.
At this time, there are no reports of sexual abuse.
Billy Epps, Jr. is being held in federal custody due to a probation violation. He is a registered sex offender and is not allowed around persons under the age of 18.
Jeffery Epps is being held in the Etowah County Detention Center. Deputies say he is in violation of state probation.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
49-year-old Billy Eugene Epps, Jr. and 24-year-old Jeffery Lynn Epps are both facing two counts of interference with custody. Deputies say the two men picked up two teenage girls, ages 13 and 14, without their parents’ permission on January 2nd and transported them from Etowah County to Cherokee County.
Allegedly, they gave the teens drugs and took them to several locations before leaving them at a Cherokee County convenience store on January 3rd.
At this time, there are no reports of sexual abuse.
Billy Epps, Jr. is being held in federal custody due to a probation violation. He is a registered sex offender and is not allowed around persons under the age of 18.
Jeffery Epps is being held in the Etowah County Detention Center. Deputies say he is in violation of state probation.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jeffco Commission: Jobs will have to be cut
JEFFERSON COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County commissioners are taking out their red pens and slashing the budget by more than $31-million dollars and that is still not enough to save jobs or county services.
Next week, the Jefferson County Commission will vote on the $31 million in cuts. Another budget review is expected with the county looking at losing $70 million from the loss of the job tax and the recent revelation that past commissioners used the $25 million J.P. Morgan settlement to balance last year’s budget.
Commissioners say they have made all the cuts that are possible without taking out any jobs or services. Now, they feel they have no choice but to make those cuts.
“We have made the cuts that are necessary to operate within our current constraints,” said Commissioner Jimmie Stephens. “With the loss of the occupational tax, there is nothing left to cut except jobs.”
Now, the county’s next move is to decide which jobs and services are required by law and which ones are not.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Next week, the Jefferson County Commission will vote on the $31 million in cuts. Another budget review is expected with the county looking at losing $70 million from the loss of the job tax and the recent revelation that past commissioners used the $25 million J.P. Morgan settlement to balance last year’s budget.
Commissioners say they have made all the cuts that are possible without taking out any jobs or services. Now, they feel they have no choice but to make those cuts.
“We have made the cuts that are necessary to operate within our current constraints,” said Commissioner Jimmie Stephens. “With the loss of the occupational tax, there is nothing left to cut except jobs.”
Now, the county’s next move is to decide which jobs and services are required by law and which ones are not.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuscaloosa police charge shooting suspect
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - Tuscaloosa police have charged a suspect in a shooting.
Tuscaloosa police say stray bullets hit and injured a 30-year-old man on Sunday at the Branscomb Apartments on 61st Street.
Officers have charged Randall "Junior" McCants with assault. His alleged victim is in critical condition.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuscaloosa police say stray bullets hit and injured a 30-year-old man on Sunday at the Branscomb Apartments on 61st Street.
Officers have charged Randall "Junior" McCants with assault. His alleged victim is in critical condition.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Mike Hale to be sworn in for fourth time
JEFFERSON COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County Sheriff Mike Hale will be sworn in for the fourth time on Tuesday.
Hale has served for three consecutive terms as sheriff, as well as a term prior to that.
The ceremony takes place at the Jefferson County Courthouse.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Hale has served for three consecutive terms as sheriff, as well as a term prior to that.
The ceremony takes place at the Jefferson County Courthouse.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham police investigating early morning homicide
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – The Birmingham Police Department says a woman was killed in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
Officers responding to a report of a domestic dispute at 228 South Park Road arrived to find 30-year-old Nina Gardner unresponsive and suffering from a gunshot wound. Birmingham Fire and Rescue pronounced the victim deceased on the scene.
A suspect has been taken into custody.
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 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Officers responding to a report of a domestic dispute at 228 South Park Road arrived to find 30-year-old Nina Gardner unresponsive and suffering from a gunshot wound. Birmingham Fire and Rescue pronounced the victim deceased on the scene.
A suspect has been taken into custody.
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 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
New air carrier offering cheap flights to the Gulf Coast
HUNTSVILLE, AL (WBRC) - The Rocket City has announced a new, low-fare air carrier.
Vision Airlines will soon provide non-stop commercial flights from Huntsville International Airport to Destin, Florida.
The flights will be priced as low as $89 one way.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Vision Airlines will soon provide non-stop commercial flights from Huntsville International Airport to Destin, Florida.
The flights will be priced as low as $89 one way.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jury to continue deliberation in former officers' trial
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A federal jury will return to court on Tuesday to deliberate in the case of two former Birmingham police officers.
David Doran and Barrett Dewitt are charged with violating Anthony Warren's civil rights by beating him after a chase in 2008.
Jurors got the case Friday, but the courthouse was closed Monday for the Martin Luther King holiday.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
David Doran and Barrett Dewitt are charged with violating Anthony Warren's civil rights by beating him after a chase in 2008.
Jurors got the case Friday, but the courthouse was closed Monday for the Martin Luther King holiday.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
One killed in blazing wreck in Birmingham
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Authorities in Birmingham say a fatal wreck became a danger to others on Tuesday morning.
Around 1:00 a.m., police and firemen were called to a fiery wreck off interstate 65 north at the Green Springs exit.
A police spokesperson says one person died in that crash. Investigators have not released the victim's name.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Around 1:00 a.m., police and firemen were called to a fiery wreck off interstate 65 north at the Green Springs exit.
A police spokesperson says one person died in that crash. Investigators have not released the victim's name.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
One killed in traffic accident in Jacksonville
JACKSONVILLE, AL (WBRC) – The Department of Public Safety is reporting a traffic accident that has claimed the life of a Piedmont man.
Troopers says 28-year-old Matthew W. Eubanks was killed while driving a 1997 Chevrolet on Possum Trot Road in Calhoun County.
The accident happened around10:25 p.m. on Monday night.
Eubanks was transported to KL Brown Funeral Home.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Troopers says 28-year-old Matthew W. Eubanks was killed while driving a 1997 Chevrolet on Possum Trot Road in Calhoun County.
The accident happened around10:25 p.m. on Monday night.
Eubanks was transported to KL Brown Funeral Home.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Alabamians share suggestions to Gov. Bentley
By Emily Luxen
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Dr. Robert Bentley became the 53rd governor of Alabama and residents were already suggesting what issues he needs primary attention.
Residents said there is a lot of work to be done in Alabama, but they are optimistic a fresh face can bring new energy to state government.
Many people agreed the struggling economy and education should be top priorities.
"I think the primary focus should be the economy," said Birmingham resident Renita Palm, "and creating more jobs and income for families who are out of work."
"I would like to see him focus on education and make Alabama one of the best states in the country as far as that goes," said Birmingham resident Jeremy Bearden.
Others support legalizing gambling as a way to bring revenue to the state.
"We need casinos," said Birmingham resident Norman Harris, "We have nothing to do here and no lottery, so I think he should focus on that."
In recent speeches, including his Inauguration Address, Governor Bentley said he will work on the state budget and bringing jobs to Alabama. He has also discussed how he wants to keep the federal government from forcing policies on the state.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Dr. Robert Bentley became the 53rd governor of Alabama and residents were already suggesting what issues he needs primary attention.
Residents said there is a lot of work to be done in Alabama, but they are optimistic a fresh face can bring new energy to state government.
Many people agreed the struggling economy and education should be top priorities.
"I think the primary focus should be the economy," said Birmingham resident Renita Palm, "and creating more jobs and income for families who are out of work."
"I would like to see him focus on education and make Alabama one of the best states in the country as far as that goes," said Birmingham resident Jeremy Bearden.
Others support legalizing gambling as a way to bring revenue to the state.
"We need casinos," said Birmingham resident Norman Harris, "We have nothing to do here and no lottery, so I think he should focus on that."
In recent speeches, including his Inauguration Address, Governor Bentley said he will work on the state budget and bringing jobs to Alabama. He has also discussed how he wants to keep the federal government from forcing policies on the state.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Power outage affects parts of Birmingham and Homewood
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Alabama Power says about 10,000 customers
are without power because of an equipment malfunction in the West Oxmoor and Greensprings areas of Birmingham and Homewood.
Power crews are troubleshooting the problem for power to be restored soon.
A Titusville resident says he has been without power since 6:30pm.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
are without power because of an equipment malfunction in the West Oxmoor and Greensprings areas of Birmingham and Homewood.
Power crews are troubleshooting the problem for power to be restored soon.
A Titusville resident says he has been without power since 6:30pm.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Events planned to celebrate MLK Holiday in Birmingham
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A number of events are planned for Monday to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The MLK Unity Breakfast kicks off at 7:30 a.m. at the BJCC.
Later on, a wreath will be laid at the statue of Dr. King in Kelly Ingram Park at 10:00 a.m.
At the same time, volunteers from across the city will gather at the Boutwell Auditorium to start the "Hands on Birmingham Day of Service" across the city.
The traditional march starts at noon, followed by a civil rights rally at the historic 16th Street Baptist Church at one.
The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is observing the Dr. King's holiday by offering free admission to the public. They will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
This year marks the 25th year of the observance.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The MLK Unity Breakfast kicks off at 7:30 a.m. at the BJCC.
Later on, a wreath will be laid at the statue of Dr. King in Kelly Ingram Park at 10:00 a.m.
At the same time, volunteers from across the city will gather at the Boutwell Auditorium to start the "Hands on Birmingham Day of Service" across the city.
The traditional march starts at noon, followed by a civil rights rally at the historic 16th Street Baptist Church at one.
The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is observing the Dr. King's holiday by offering free admission to the public. They will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
This year marks the 25th year of the observance.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham celebrates 100 days without youth violence deaths
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Today marks 100 days with nobody under the age of 18 losing their life to violence in Birmingham.
To mark the occasion, City Councilor Jay Roberson and many young people will take part in the march for unity and nonviolence starting at city hall.
Roberson says the outcome of his initiative has put a positive spotlight on the magic city.
“It’s commendable to Birmingham to have this effort. It changes the scope of our city, makes it more willing to have events come in, have hospitality in our city” said Roberson. “People feel more welcome. They feel safe. You look at developments; Birmingham is on the move and going in the right direction.”
Several colleges and high schools in the suburbs of Birmingham will take part in today's ceremony.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
To mark the occasion, City Councilor Jay Roberson and many young people will take part in the march for unity and nonviolence starting at city hall.
Roberson says the outcome of his initiative has put a positive spotlight on the magic city.
“It’s commendable to Birmingham to have this effort. It changes the scope of our city, makes it more willing to have events come in, have hospitality in our city” said Roberson. “People feel more welcome. They feel safe. You look at developments; Birmingham is on the move and going in the right direction.”
Several colleges and high schools in the suburbs of Birmingham will take part in today's ceremony.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Governor-elect Bentley could soon announce proration
By Kelvin Reynolds and Melanie Posey
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - Governor-elect Robert Bentley says he could declare proration within weeks of taking office. Bentley made the statement during a wide-ranging discussion about challenges facing Alabama.
Bentley said, "I think we're going to have to look at it in the next 2 or 3 weeks. It's going to have to be early. If you're going to have to declare proration, it should be done quickly in the early part of the year as possible."
Bentley says those cuts would take place in 2012.
State Representative John Rogers mentioned from what he's hearing, the state's financial future is looking 'pathetic.'
After speaking with the legislative fiscal office, he too hears that there may be a 12.5% cut from the general fund budget and a 2.5% cut from the education trust fund budget. But Rogers says the real hardship will come with the 2012 budgets when federal stimulus funds and other "one- time" monies are no longer.
"It means that somebody has to have enough nerve to go in there and raise some taxes," Rogers said. "Somebody has to have enough guts and nerve to say, 'We have to raise taxes in this state. We got to it with property taxes. We've got to start doing like other states and start taxing property.'"
Rogers believes the state may have to consider an issue that has received stiff opposition over the years, adding, "Gambling might be the answer. I mean, you might hate gambling, but it's a free tax. That won't bail us out completely, but it won't hurt to have some more, extra dollars coming in from somewhere."
Overall, the future state budget looks bad according to Governor-elect Bentley. He said the state's general funds could be down as much as $400 to $500 million.
Bentley wants to brief school systems early on how much state funding they could lose from their budgets so they can plan accordingly.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) - Governor-elect Robert Bentley says he could declare proration within weeks of taking office. Bentley made the statement during a wide-ranging discussion about challenges facing Alabama.
Bentley said, "I think we're going to have to look at it in the next 2 or 3 weeks. It's going to have to be early. If you're going to have to declare proration, it should be done quickly in the early part of the year as possible."
Bentley says those cuts would take place in 2012.
State Representative John Rogers mentioned from what he's hearing, the state's financial future is looking 'pathetic.'
After speaking with the legislative fiscal office, he too hears that there may be a 12.5% cut from the general fund budget and a 2.5% cut from the education trust fund budget. But Rogers says the real hardship will come with the 2012 budgets when federal stimulus funds and other "one- time" monies are no longer.
"It means that somebody has to have enough nerve to go in there and raise some taxes," Rogers said. "Somebody has to have enough guts and nerve to say, 'We have to raise taxes in this state. We got to it with property taxes. We've got to start doing like other states and start taxing property.'"
Rogers believes the state may have to consider an issue that has received stiff opposition over the years, adding, "Gambling might be the answer. I mean, you might hate gambling, but it's a free tax. That won't bail us out completely, but it won't hurt to have some more, extra dollars coming in from somewhere."
Overall, the future state budget looks bad according to Governor-elect Bentley. He said the state's general funds could be down as much as $400 to $500 million.
Bentley wants to brief school systems early on how much state funding they could lose from their budgets so they can plan accordingly.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Cam Newton declares for NFL draft
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Auburn's latest Heisman Award winner, Cam Newton, has made himself available for the 2011 NFL Draft.
The announcement was made in a letter from Auburn University Thursday night.
Newton helped lead Auburn to its 1st national title since 1957 in his only season on The Plains.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The announcement was made in a letter from Auburn University Thursday night.
Newton helped lead Auburn to its 1st national title since 1957 in his only season on The Plains.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Flying ice causes fear and quick decisions for drivers
By Sherea Harris
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - For many of you, remnants of the winter storm still exist atop vehicles.
Many folks are driving with thick ice and snow on their vehicles, that can cause problems on the highways.
Here's the situation. After the winter storm, folks scraped the ice and snow from their windows but didn't clear it from the rest of the vehicle. That's not a problem until you start driving on the highway and others dodge flying ice.
The sheets and chunks of ice left on the vehicle loosens and goes flying.
It caused Brandy Fike to get quite a scare behind the wheel.
She was coming from Bessemer traveling down 1-59 towards Birmingham when a large sheet of ice came flying towards her car. She slammed on her brakes to avoid it.
"I was mad more than anything," said Brandy Fike. "I had children in the vehicle. If it had hit the car no there's telling what would of happened."
Horace Walker Jefferson County EMA Officer said, "I don't know how much damage it could cause to their vehicle, but I'm sure it could cause them to swerve or have an accident."
Fike was thankful she didn't cause an accident by slamming on her brakes. She could have very easily been rear ended. Folks are strongly advised to clear the ice off of your vehicle the best way you can before driving.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - For many of you, remnants of the winter storm still exist atop vehicles.
Many folks are driving with thick ice and snow on their vehicles, that can cause problems on the highways.
Here's the situation. After the winter storm, folks scraped the ice and snow from their windows but didn't clear it from the rest of the vehicle. That's not a problem until you start driving on the highway and others dodge flying ice.
The sheets and chunks of ice left on the vehicle loosens and goes flying.
It caused Brandy Fike to get quite a scare behind the wheel.
She was coming from Bessemer traveling down 1-59 towards Birmingham when a large sheet of ice came flying towards her car. She slammed on her brakes to avoid it.
"I was mad more than anything," said Brandy Fike. "I had children in the vehicle. If it had hit the car no there's telling what would of happened."
Horace Walker Jefferson County EMA Officer said, "I don't know how much damage it could cause to their vehicle, but I'm sure it could cause them to swerve or have an accident."
Fike was thankful she didn't cause an accident by slamming on her brakes. She could have very easily been rear ended. Folks are strongly advised to clear the ice off of your vehicle the best way you can before driving.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Cullman is now a wet city
By Emily Luxen
CULLMAN, AL (WBRC) - The city of Cullman is now officially wet, and residents are one step closer to buying and selling alcohol in city limits. After several work sessions and public hearings, city councilors have approved the alcohol ordinance. Now businesses can start applying for alcohol licenses.
Cullman Mayor Max Townson said he is pleased with the city's final 55-page ordinance.
It states, "Alcohol sales will begin at 8am and end at 11pm Monday-Thursday. On Friday and Saturday nights, sales will be allowed until midnight. Alcohol will not be sold at all on Sunday. Depending on the area of the city, a business selling or serving alcohol has to be 50 to 250 feet from churches, schools or daycares. Package stores must be 1500 feet from churches, schools, or daycares."
Mayor Townson said he hopes this ordinance encourages new businesses to open and move to the city, bringing an economic boost for the area.
"When you can come in and bring other retail outlets and developments that creates jobs and growth," said Mayor Townson, "that is what we are after."
Cullman residents agreed the ordinance is balanced and fair and they hope it helps the city grow.
"Hopefully, it will bring in business, bring in other industry, help the whole population," said Bruce Claridge.
"I would love to have some new restaurants to choose from," said Steven Smith.
To apply for an alcohol license, a business owner must pay a $200 filing fee, pass a background check, and complete the Alabama Responsible Vendor program. Depending on the type of business, the cost of the fees range. Mayor Townson says he believes alcohol sales will begin at the end of February.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
CULLMAN, AL (WBRC) - The city of Cullman is now officially wet, and residents are one step closer to buying and selling alcohol in city limits. After several work sessions and public hearings, city councilors have approved the alcohol ordinance. Now businesses can start applying for alcohol licenses.
Cullman Mayor Max Townson said he is pleased with the city's final 55-page ordinance.
It states, "Alcohol sales will begin at 8am and end at 11pm Monday-Thursday. On Friday and Saturday nights, sales will be allowed until midnight. Alcohol will not be sold at all on Sunday. Depending on the area of the city, a business selling or serving alcohol has to be 50 to 250 feet from churches, schools or daycares. Package stores must be 1500 feet from churches, schools, or daycares."
Mayor Townson said he hopes this ordinance encourages new businesses to open and move to the city, bringing an economic boost for the area.
"When you can come in and bring other retail outlets and developments that creates jobs and growth," said Mayor Townson, "that is what we are after."
Cullman residents agreed the ordinance is balanced and fair and they hope it helps the city grow.
"Hopefully, it will bring in business, bring in other industry, help the whole population," said Bruce Claridge.
"I would love to have some new restaurants to choose from," said Steven Smith.
To apply for an alcohol license, a business owner must pay a $200 filing fee, pass a background check, and complete the Alabama Responsible Vendor program. Depending on the type of business, the cost of the fees range. Mayor Townson says he believes alcohol sales will begin at the end of February.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
For good and bad, wintry mix impacts commerce
By Jonathan Hardison
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Business owners across central Alabama are starting to dig out from days of being closed because of mother nature. So how hard did she hit their bottom lines?
From a bottom-line perspective this winter storm made every city government a loser because they're still spending lots of money on overtime to get the roads clear and keep emergency services going. And because for a few days, those shoppers weren't paying sales tax at local stores like the Galleria in Hoover.
"That is a major cost, you're absolutely right," Hoover Mayor Tony Petelos said. "Sixty-five percent of our budget is sales tax-driven, and because it's such a high sales tax-driven economy, it costs us."
Petelos says he hasn't gotten a final figure on how much the storm will cost his city, but says compared to the storms in New England this week, this is just a bump in the road. But when it comes to businesses, the difference between winning and losing in this storm was all about location, service, and a little luck.
When the snow started, Zoe's Kitchen in Homewood came to a dead stop.
"Right when it started to hit, we noticed Homewood became desolate, like a ghost town," said Gregory Wolfe, manager at the Zoe's Kitchen in SoHo. "We shut it down then."
That shut-down lasted all the way through Monday and into Tuesday morning, when Gregory Wolfe walked in and knew his store had missed some meals. "Our phone was still ringing off the hook, even though we were closed, had a lot of missed calls," Wolfe said. But Zoe's didn't lose any money on supplies, a problem that a lot of restaurants face when they face an unexpected shutdown.
"We get our food daily, so the vendors were closed down so we didn't get our trucks that day, so nothing went bad on our end," Wolfe said.
Some products you can wait till the next day to buy, a meal isn't one of them so Zoe's may have lost sales, but it wasn't paying its hourly workers that day, and by Tuesday at lunch-time, all of its customers were back inside making up for lost time.
"It really didn't affect the business too much," Wolfe said. "The only thing that really affected us was all the school closings and parents not being able to be at work and out to lunch like they normally are."
Owner David Gorji at Highland Package Store lives within walking distance of his store and knew if he stayed open Sunday night and Monday, it would be worth his while.
"It was busy until 2am in the morning," Gorji said. "We managed to keep open and took care of the customers. The state store was closed, that helped a lot, the other thing is being in the center of the community, by being next to Western, so obviously they pick up some food and some drinks. That helped. It worked out together."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Business owners across central Alabama are starting to dig out from days of being closed because of mother nature. So how hard did she hit their bottom lines?
From a bottom-line perspective this winter storm made every city government a loser because they're still spending lots of money on overtime to get the roads clear and keep emergency services going. And because for a few days, those shoppers weren't paying sales tax at local stores like the Galleria in Hoover.
"That is a major cost, you're absolutely right," Hoover Mayor Tony Petelos said. "Sixty-five percent of our budget is sales tax-driven, and because it's such a high sales tax-driven economy, it costs us."
Petelos says he hasn't gotten a final figure on how much the storm will cost his city, but says compared to the storms in New England this week, this is just a bump in the road. But when it comes to businesses, the difference between winning and losing in this storm was all about location, service, and a little luck.
When the snow started, Zoe's Kitchen in Homewood came to a dead stop.
"Right when it started to hit, we noticed Homewood became desolate, like a ghost town," said Gregory Wolfe, manager at the Zoe's Kitchen in SoHo. "We shut it down then."
That shut-down lasted all the way through Monday and into Tuesday morning, when Gregory Wolfe walked in and knew his store had missed some meals. "Our phone was still ringing off the hook, even though we were closed, had a lot of missed calls," Wolfe said. But Zoe's didn't lose any money on supplies, a problem that a lot of restaurants face when they face an unexpected shutdown.
"We get our food daily, so the vendors were closed down so we didn't get our trucks that day, so nothing went bad on our end," Wolfe said.
Some products you can wait till the next day to buy, a meal isn't one of them so Zoe's may have lost sales, but it wasn't paying its hourly workers that day, and by Tuesday at lunch-time, all of its customers were back inside making up for lost time.
"It really didn't affect the business too much," Wolfe said. "The only thing that really affected us was all the school closings and parents not being able to be at work and out to lunch like they normally are."
Owner David Gorji at Highland Package Store lives within walking distance of his store and knew if he stayed open Sunday night and Monday, it would be worth his while.
"It was busy until 2am in the morning," Gorji said. "We managed to keep open and took care of the customers. The state store was closed, that helped a lot, the other thing is being in the center of the community, by being next to Western, so obviously they pick up some food and some drinks. That helped. It worked out together."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Three arrested on copper theft charges
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office says they have arrested three individuals in relation to copper thefts from live gas wells.
43-year-old Brian Scott Sturgill, 34-year-old Edward Shane Sanders and 23-year-old Joseph Chadwick Blackson are all facing charges in relation to the thefts.
The arrests are the result of a month long investigation into the thefts. Over $130,000 worth of damage was done to the wells while the copper could only provide a couple thousand dollars.
Investigators say one of the suspects was caught in the process of burning the copper wiring to remove the insulation.
The Sheriff’s Office also emphasizes that stealing from the active gas wells was extremely dangerous and placed the suspects and others in danger.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
43-year-old Brian Scott Sturgill, 34-year-old Edward Shane Sanders and 23-year-old Joseph Chadwick Blackson are all facing charges in relation to the thefts.
The arrests are the result of a month long investigation into the thefts. Over $130,000 worth of damage was done to the wells while the copper could only provide a couple thousand dollars.
Investigators say one of the suspects was caught in the process of burning the copper wiring to remove the insulation.
The Sheriff’s Office also emphasizes that stealing from the active gas wells was extremely dangerous and placed the suspects and others in danger.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jones, Ingram and Dareus headed to NFL
TUSCALOOSA, AL (WBRC) – Three of the University of Alabama’s star football players have announced their intentions to enter the NFL draft now that their junior years are through.
Wide receiver Julio Jones, defensive lineman Marcell Dareus and Heisman-winning running back Mark Ingram were announced to be leaving the Crimson Tide by head football coach Nick Saban at a news conference on Friday at noon.
Dareus is expected to be a top ten pick in the draft. Jones and Ingram are expected to be mid-round picks.
On a high note for the Tide, linebacker Dont’a Hightower will be returning for another year.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Wide receiver Julio Jones, defensive lineman Marcell Dareus and Heisman-winning running back Mark Ingram were announced to be leaving the Crimson Tide by head football coach Nick Saban at a news conference on Friday at noon.
Dareus is expected to be a top ten pick in the draft. Jones and Ingram are expected to be mid-round picks.
On a high note for the Tide, linebacker Dont’a Hightower will be returning for another year.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The trial of two former Birmingham police officers continues Friday.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The trial of two former Birmingham police officers continues Friday.
On Thursday in court, jurors were shown three different angles of the police chase and beating that led to the unreasonable force charges against David Doran and Barrett Dewitt.
Defense attorneys say it is important to consider all events leading up to the incident and not just the beating.
In two of the recordings, the suspect, Anthony Warren, is thrown from the car. One of the recordings also shows Doran putting his foot on warren's neck after he was arrested. In another, Dewitt is seen receiving congratulatory handshakes after the crash.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
On Thursday in court, jurors were shown three different angles of the police chase and beating that led to the unreasonable force charges against David Doran and Barrett Dewitt.
Defense attorneys say it is important to consider all events leading up to the incident and not just the beating.
In two of the recordings, the suspect, Anthony Warren, is thrown from the car. One of the recordings also shows Doran putting his foot on warren's neck after he was arrested. In another, Dewitt is seen receiving congratulatory handshakes after the crash.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Pawnee Heights body identified
JEFFERSON COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - Jefferson County investigators have identified a man found shot to death.
On Wednesday night, Michael Terry was found dead in the Pawnee Heights area of Jefferson County.
Terry’s Lexus was later found abandoned on Cherry Avenue in the Forestdale area around midnight.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
On Wednesday night, Michael Terry was found dead in the Pawnee Heights area of Jefferson County.
Terry’s Lexus was later found abandoned on Cherry Avenue in the Forestdale area around midnight.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
NTSB: no distress signal from pilot in East Lake crash
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The National Transportation Safety Board says the pilot of a plane that crashed in East Lake did not make a distress call before he crashed and died.
The NTSB says the pilot calmly told the tower, that he was going to land at the Birmingham Airport instead of Shelby County because of the fog.
Neighbors in East Lake say they have feared something like this would happen for years.
"The guy is a hero. He missed houses. It could've been a whole lot different and a whole lot more traumatic than it is," said witness Reginald Smith.
"It was just scary,” said April Pierce. “It could've hit any of these houses, our house. I have 2 babies"
The identity of the pilot has not been released yet. A full investigation into the crash will take up to six months.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The NTSB says the pilot calmly told the tower, that he was going to land at the Birmingham Airport instead of Shelby County because of the fog.
Neighbors in East Lake say they have feared something like this would happen for years.
"The guy is a hero. He missed houses. It could've been a whole lot different and a whole lot more traumatic than it is," said witness Reginald Smith.
"It was just scary,” said April Pierce. “It could've hit any of these houses, our house. I have 2 babies"
The identity of the pilot has not been released yet. A full investigation into the crash will take up to six months.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Airlines ready for Auburn fans headed to desert
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - As the big game nears, more Auburn fans are flying out to Glendale from Birmingham and more will fly Friday.
Delta, Southwest, and chartered planes added 21 additional flights to accommodate the huge number of Auburn fans going to the game.
"I have to have all my Auburn gear, lucky stuff, and all my shakers. So I've got it all packed," said Laurie Halvorson.
Auburn Senior Melinda Kun hugged her mother before going through security. She won a ticket to the game and her mother paid for her flight.
Kun said "It seems really unreal actually. It's like a once in a lifetime experience really excited."
Airport officials have put together a checklist for fans who are traveling to Glendale.
Here are a few of those things you can do to make your travel process is easier.
Remember, fans can print boarding passes from home up to 24 hours before the flight.
They're also asked to arrive 2 hours early at the airport, and make certain to pack smart and make sure whatever you're taking is TSA approved.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Delta, Southwest, and chartered planes added 21 additional flights to accommodate the huge number of Auburn fans going to the game.
"I have to have all my Auburn gear, lucky stuff, and all my shakers. So I've got it all packed," said Laurie Halvorson.
Auburn Senior Melinda Kun hugged her mother before going through security. She won a ticket to the game and her mother paid for her flight.
Kun said "It seems really unreal actually. It's like a once in a lifetime experience really excited."
Airport officials have put together a checklist for fans who are traveling to Glendale.
Here are a few of those things you can do to make your travel process is easier.
Remember, fans can print boarding passes from home up to 24 hours before the flight.
They're also asked to arrive 2 hours early at the airport, and make certain to pack smart and make sure whatever you're taking is TSA approved.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Car dealers hopeful for 2011 sales
By Emily Luxen
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Economists are predicting 2011 will be a better year for retail and car sales. After a dismal year in 2009, car sales improved slightly in 2010, and now projections are for sales to increase by as much as 15% in 2011.
At Brannon Honda in Birmingham, managers are excited about the upcoming year.
"We've got some new products, new sales, and a launch party for the new Civic coming up," said Patrick Brannon at Brannon Honda. "Also, low APR specials and lease specials to get old and new customers taken care of."
Economists predict customers will start buying cars again because they are feeling more confident about the economy, and they will be interested in the new models that car companies are debuting.
Potential customers said they feel better about buying a car this year, but some still want to make sure they are making a good financial decision.
"It's something we're planning for, we're not doing a spur of the moment buy," said customer James Graham, "We're doing our homework and want to be informed before we do anything."
Officials at Brannon Honda say over the last two years, the service department has generate a large chunk of money for the dealership, but they are hopeful this year will bring the emphasis back to sales.
"We're very optimistic," said Ben Brannon at Brannon Honda. "I think it will be a good year."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Economists are predicting 2011 will be a better year for retail and car sales. After a dismal year in 2009, car sales improved slightly in 2010, and now projections are for sales to increase by as much as 15% in 2011.
At Brannon Honda in Birmingham, managers are excited about the upcoming year.
"We've got some new products, new sales, and a launch party for the new Civic coming up," said Patrick Brannon at Brannon Honda. "Also, low APR specials and lease specials to get old and new customers taken care of."
Economists predict customers will start buying cars again because they are feeling more confident about the economy, and they will be interested in the new models that car companies are debuting.
Potential customers said they feel better about buying a car this year, but some still want to make sure they are making a good financial decision.
"It's something we're planning for, we're not doing a spur of the moment buy," said customer James Graham, "We're doing our homework and want to be informed before we do anything."
Officials at Brannon Honda say over the last two years, the service department has generate a large chunk of money for the dealership, but they are hopeful this year will bring the emphasis back to sales.
"We're very optimistic," said Ben Brannon at Brannon Honda. "I think it will be a good year."
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BBVA Compass Bowl teams enjoy a laugh while in town
HOOVER, AL (WBRC) - The University of Kentucky and University of Pittsburgh football teams were treated to some special entertainment at the Stardome Comedy Club in Hoover.
Players and coaches enjoyed dinner, a trivia contest, and a comedy show.
The mayors of Birmingham and Hoover attended the event to welcome players to the area. They agree it's great to see these teams and all their fans visiting the Birmingham metro area.
"Last year, the bowl game brought in $18 million to this entire region," said Birmingham's Mayor William Bell. "That benefits everyone. We expect this year's game to do at least that, maybe more this time around."
Hoover's Mayor Tony Petelos said, "The fact that they are in our community, staying in hotels around region, is great. Also, the positive aspect of the game coverage on TV, it's good for the region."
Kickoff for the BBVA Compass Bowl is this Saturday at 11am at Legion Field.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Players and coaches enjoyed dinner, a trivia contest, and a comedy show.
The mayors of Birmingham and Hoover attended the event to welcome players to the area. They agree it's great to see these teams and all their fans visiting the Birmingham metro area.
"Last year, the bowl game brought in $18 million to this entire region," said Birmingham's Mayor William Bell. "That benefits everyone. We expect this year's game to do at least that, maybe more this time around."
Hoover's Mayor Tony Petelos said, "The fact that they are in our community, staying in hotels around region, is great. Also, the positive aspect of the game coverage on TV, it's good for the region."
Kickoff for the BBVA Compass Bowl is this Saturday at 11am at Legion Field.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Transportation workers handle hazmat situation
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - State transportation workers dealt with a hazmat situation in Birmingham on Thursday.
Officials say a company called Industrial Chemicals lost some of their barrels on Interstate 20. Those barrels were empty but on their way to be cleaned in Atlanta.
They were dropped all over the interstate from the Oporto Madrid exit to the Talladega area.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Officials say a company called Industrial Chemicals lost some of their barrels on Interstate 20. Those barrels were empty but on their way to be cleaned in Atlanta.
They were dropped all over the interstate from the Oporto Madrid exit to the Talladega area.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
3 men charged with the shooting death of a 6-year-old girl
ELMORE COUNTY, AL (WBRC) - Authorities in Elmore County have charged three men with capital murder for the death of a 6-year-old girl.
She was killed when someone fired 18 rounds from a rifle through the home where she was sleeping.
The little girl's uncle was hit once in the hip and once in the ankle. He is in fair condition.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
She was killed when someone fired 18 rounds from a rifle through the home where she was sleeping.
The little girl's uncle was hit once in the hip and once in the ankle. He is in fair condition.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Changes coming to Center Point
By Sherea Harris
CENTER POINT, AL (WBRC) - In Center Point, people are seeing new development, including new businesses and revitalization. There are also some upgrades coming to the city.
It's all about continuing to improve the image of Center Point and attracting more people to the area.
Folks may have already noticed two new businesses on Center Point Parkway. Those businesses are a car wash facility and a meat and three restaurant called Kimberlee's. The old McDonald's on the parkway was demolished and a new one will be built there.
Mayor Tom Henderson tells me there is also a sidewalk project in the works for parts of Center Point Parkway.
The mayor looks forward to the economic boost to his city and he's hoping for more development in the near future.
"I think when you have the amenities like parks, recreation, new businesses and new restaurants, it tends to bring people to the city," said Mayor Henderson.
"I really like it. I've always lived in the area. I've always thought this was a good area." said Lauren Palmore. "So, with more money and the more people maybe we'll get a better reputation."
Resident Kenny Stutts said, "It just makes the community look better. And plus it'll give people a little bit more opportunity as far as jobs."
Mayor Henderson says a new fast food restaurant is coming to the vacant Krystal's. There are also plans to build an amphitheatre at the park on Polly Reed Road where folks can go for movie nights and music in the park.
In addition, a new high school is being built. It'll be called Center Point High School, which is set to open next school year.
The old Erwin High School will become the new middle school.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
CENTER POINT, AL (WBRC) - In Center Point, people are seeing new development, including new businesses and revitalization. There are also some upgrades coming to the city.
It's all about continuing to improve the image of Center Point and attracting more people to the area.
Folks may have already noticed two new businesses on Center Point Parkway. Those businesses are a car wash facility and a meat and three restaurant called Kimberlee's. The old McDonald's on the parkway was demolished and a new one will be built there.
Mayor Tom Henderson tells me there is also a sidewalk project in the works for parts of Center Point Parkway.
The mayor looks forward to the economic boost to his city and he's hoping for more development in the near future.
"I think when you have the amenities like parks, recreation, new businesses and new restaurants, it tends to bring people to the city," said Mayor Henderson.
"I really like it. I've always lived in the area. I've always thought this was a good area." said Lauren Palmore. "So, with more money and the more people maybe we'll get a better reputation."
Resident Kenny Stutts said, "It just makes the community look better. And plus it'll give people a little bit more opportunity as far as jobs."
Mayor Henderson says a new fast food restaurant is coming to the vacant Krystal's. There are also plans to build an amphitheatre at the park on Polly Reed Road where folks can go for movie nights and music in the park.
In addition, a new high school is being built. It'll be called Center Point High School, which is set to open next school year.
The old Erwin High School will become the new middle school.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Car runs into Chuck E. Cheese
VESTAVIA HILLS, AL (WBRC) – Vestavia Hills Police are reporting that a car ran into a Chuck E Cheese restaurant on Wednesday.
No one was hurt in the incident.
The damage did cause a large power outage in the area.
Stay with MyFoxAL.com and Fox6 News for more info on this story as it becomes available.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
No one was hurt in the incident.
The damage did cause a large power outage in the area.
Stay with MyFoxAL.com and Fox6 News for more info on this story as it becomes available.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Judge refuses to stop execution
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A federal judge in Birmingham has turned down Alabama death row inmate Leroy White's request to stop his execution scheduled for next week.
White had argued that his execution should be stopped because his former attorneys caused him to miss a deadline for appealing his conviction.
He was sentenced for the shotgun slaying of his estranged wife during a violent domestic argument.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
White had argued that his execution should be stopped because his former attorneys caused him to miss a deadline for appealing his conviction.
He was sentenced for the shotgun slaying of his estranged wife during a violent domestic argument.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham's northern beltline project pushed by supporters
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Supporters of Birmingham’s Northern Beltline want a unified front pushing the multi-billion dollar project.
On Tuesday, the executive director of the Coalition of Regional Transportation asked the Jefferson County Commission to continue to back the northern beltline.
The project is expected to deliver about 70,000 new jobs and an economic impact of about $7 billion.
A vote is expected next week.
Land is already being cleared for the project.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
On Tuesday, the executive director of the Coalition of Regional Transportation asked the Jefferson County Commission to continue to back the northern beltline.
The project is expected to deliver about 70,000 new jobs and an economic impact of about $7 billion.
A vote is expected next week.
Land is already being cleared for the project.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Auburn Arena hosts viewing party
By Katie Herrera
AUBURN, AL (WBRC) - If you can’t make it all the way to Arizona for the BCS National Championship game between Auburn and Oregon, you can still get the championship experience closer to home!
Auburn University is hosting a viewing party inside the new basketball arena, broadcasting the ESPN coverage on the jumbo HD video boards. You can watch the game with 9,600 members of the Auburn Family and you won’t have to worry about Duck fans at this watch party.
Admission is free for everyone, but seating is first-come first-serve. Doors open at 6:00 PM Monday night, and general parking around the arena starts at 5:00 PM.
Outside food and drinks are not allowed in, but concession stands will be open for business. The AU Team Shop will be open before, during and after the game.
To make it a game-day weekend on the plains, RV Parking will be available in the hayfield on the corner of S. Donahue Dr. and Lem Morrison Dr. starting Saturday at noon.
Monday is the first day back to class for students, so campus will be busy and the viewing is expected to have a big turnout.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
AUBURN, AL (WBRC) - If you can’t make it all the way to Arizona for the BCS National Championship game between Auburn and Oregon, you can still get the championship experience closer to home!
Auburn University is hosting a viewing party inside the new basketball arena, broadcasting the ESPN coverage on the jumbo HD video boards. You can watch the game with 9,600 members of the Auburn Family and you won’t have to worry about Duck fans at this watch party.
Admission is free for everyone, but seating is first-come first-serve. Doors open at 6:00 PM Monday night, and general parking around the arena starts at 5:00 PM.
Outside food and drinks are not allowed in, but concession stands will be open for business. The AU Team Shop will be open before, during and after the game.
To make it a game-day weekend on the plains, RV Parking will be available in the hayfield on the corner of S. Donahue Dr. and Lem Morrison Dr. starting Saturday at noon.
Monday is the first day back to class for students, so campus will be busy and the viewing is expected to have a big turnout.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
House fire erupts in Hueytown
HUEYTOWN, AL (WBRC) - Around 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, the Hueytown Fire Department responded to a house fire at 2000 Shady Lane in Hueytown.
When they got on the scene, the house was fully involved.
One person was in the house, but made it safely out of the home.
Stay with MyFoxAL.com and Fox6 News for more info on this story as it becomes available.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
When they got on the scene, the house was fully involved.
One person was in the house, but made it safely out of the home.
Stay with MyFoxAL.com and Fox6 News for more info on this story as it becomes available.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jury selection begins in unreasonable force trial
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Jury selection begins Wednesday in a police brutality case against two former Birmingham police officers.
David Doran and Barrett Dewitt are charged with using unreasonable force
Doran, Dewitt and three other officers lost their jobs after the 2008 beating was caught on video.
Lawyers expect the trial to last about a week with 20 or more witnesses called to testify.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
David Doran and Barrett Dewitt are charged with using unreasonable force
Doran, Dewitt and three other officers lost their jobs after the 2008 beating was caught on video.
Lawyers expect the trial to last about a week with 20 or more witnesses called to testify.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Flu cases on the rise in Alabama
HOMEWOOD, AL (WBRC) - An increase in the number of flu cases in our area has been reported by the Centers for Disease Control. Doctors say most cases have been "Influenza B," which is a milder strain.
Doctors at Alabama Pediatrics in Homewood say patients started filling up waiting rooms with flu symptoms in December. It seems more children are getting it as they prepare to return to school.
Doctors say the flu vaccine does protect against Influenza B and that is why they continue to urge their patients to get a flu shot.
“For some reason there are many people who are hesitant to get a vaccine which is a mystery to physicians,” said Dr. Robert Levin. “It is still recommended for all patients from 6 months and above to get a flu vaccine and it’s not too late.”
Dr. Levin says peak flu season is January and February with cases continuing into March.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Doctors at Alabama Pediatrics in Homewood say patients started filling up waiting rooms with flu symptoms in December. It seems more children are getting it as they prepare to return to school.
Doctors say the flu vaccine does protect against Influenza B and that is why they continue to urge their patients to get a flu shot.
“For some reason there are many people who are hesitant to get a vaccine which is a mystery to physicians,” said Dr. Robert Levin. “It is still recommended for all patients from 6 months and above to get a flu vaccine and it’s not too late.”
Dr. Levin says peak flu season is January and February with cases continuing into March.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham mayor reports financial surplus
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - Good news for the city of Birmingham has come in the form of a $9 million surplus.
Mayor William Bell says it is all thanks to cost saving measures and an upturn in the economy. The news means raises for 1,100 city employees and funding for some non-profits that were cut from the city's budget.
Mayor Bell also says money coming into the city is indicative of a turnaround. "The Christmas holiday, the largest segment of sales tax revenue was extremely better than what we anticipated," said Bell.
The mayor wants the city to spend about $5 million of the surplus on salaries and non-profits and hold on to the rest.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Mayor William Bell says it is all thanks to cost saving measures and an upturn in the economy. The news means raises for 1,100 city employees and funding for some non-profits that were cut from the city's budget.
Mayor Bell also says money coming into the city is indicative of a turnaround. "The Christmas holiday, the largest segment of sales tax revenue was extremely better than what we anticipated," said Bell.
The mayor wants the city to spend about $5 million of the surplus on salaries and non-profits and hold on to the rest.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham to pay for Fair Park planning gaffe
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - The Birmingham City Council learned Tuesday that it will have to shell out more money to complete the competition pool project at Fair Park. The original plans, drawn up under the Langford administration, do not call for a warm-up pool, something every major swim meet requires.
Mayor William Bell says it will cost more than $400,000 just to design the new warm-up pool and millions more to build
The news does not sit well with a council that has already spent close to $50 million on this project.
“It makes no sense,” said Councilor Johnathan Austin. “It's like having an ice cream cone without the ice cream.”
“After sinking $50 million into this thing, it would be terrible to have something we couldn't use or fully utilize in the way it was intended,” noted Councilor Valerie Abbott.
Most of the council agreed they have to spend this extra money to build the warm-up pool.
The main part of this building is supposed to open in June.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Mayor William Bell says it will cost more than $400,000 just to design the new warm-up pool and millions more to build
The news does not sit well with a council that has already spent close to $50 million on this project.
“It makes no sense,” said Councilor Johnathan Austin. “It's like having an ice cream cone without the ice cream.”
“After sinking $50 million into this thing, it would be terrible to have something we couldn't use or fully utilize in the way it was intended,” noted Councilor Valerie Abbott.
Most of the council agreed they have to spend this extra money to build the warm-up pool.
The main part of this building is supposed to open in June.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Birmingham votes to market the city on ESPN
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – Birmingham's annual bowl game, the BBVA Compass Bowl, is just a few days away and city leaders are planning to set aside money in hopes of making the bowl bigger in years to come.
At Tuesday morning's city council meeting, a four year contract with ESPN regional television to promote the city passed the council with all but one yes vote. The deal would spend a million dollars on marketing over four years, starting with this year's game. It puts Birmingham in the spotlight on ESPN with long shots of the city and feature stories appearing during the game.
The city has paid for the advertising for the past four years during the game, previously the PapaJohns.com Bowl.
The lone ‘no’ vote was City Councilman Steven Hoyt. Hoyt said at the meeting that he felt it was unfair to give so much money to the larger radio stations and not paying for all radio stations.
Last year’s game drew about 40,000 people to the Magic City. City leaders say they hope the advertising will bring more people.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
At Tuesday morning's city council meeting, a four year contract with ESPN regional television to promote the city passed the council with all but one yes vote. The deal would spend a million dollars on marketing over four years, starting with this year's game. It puts Birmingham in the spotlight on ESPN with long shots of the city and feature stories appearing during the game.
The city has paid for the advertising for the past four years during the game, previously the PapaJohns.com Bowl.
The lone ‘no’ vote was City Councilman Steven Hoyt. Hoyt said at the meeting that he felt it was unfair to give so much money to the larger radio stations and not paying for all radio stations.
Last year’s game drew about 40,000 people to the Magic City. City leaders say they hope the advertising will bring more people.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jeffco Commission ponders giving more to Clastran
JEFFERSON COUNTY, AL (WBRC) – The Jefferson County Commission may be giving more money to transportation service Clastran.
On Tuesday, Jefferson County Commissioner Sandra Little Brown called for a summit over Clastran funding.
Clastran is a service that provides transportation for the elderly and disabled. Recently, the service has found itself needing more funds to make it through the fiscal year. Jefferson County has pledged $300,000 to Clastran and Birmingham gives $100,000. Clastran officials say they still need $120,000.
Recently, Birmingham city leaders announced surplus money that might be given as well.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
On Tuesday, Jefferson County Commissioner Sandra Little Brown called for a summit over Clastran funding.
Clastran is a service that provides transportation for the elderly and disabled. Recently, the service has found itself needing more funds to make it through the fiscal year. Jefferson County has pledged $300,000 to Clastran and Birmingham gives $100,000. Clastran officials say they still need $120,000.
Recently, Birmingham city leaders announced surplus money that might be given as well.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
AU fans going to Glendale no matter what
By Katie Herrera
AUBURN, AL (WBRC) - The Auburn Tigers football team left for Glendale, Arizona on Monday, headed for the BCS National Championship Game.
Many Auburn fans are gearing up for their own trips to Glendale, but a lot of folks will be traveling without a game ticket.
“We have everything but tickets. We have airline. We have a rental car. We have a hotel booked. And we are just searching for tickets with our fingers crossed,” said Robert Harris.
Tickets for sale on websites like stubhub.com are starting at $2,000. It is a price many fans cannot afford to pay, but it is not stopping them from making the trip.
“It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to go out there and see this. Back in 2004, we got to go to the Sugar Bowl, and that was a great time. Can’t pass up a chance to go see Arizona, a beautiful place, and see us win a national championship,” explained Harris.
The Auburn Alumni Association estimates there will be thousands of Auburn fans making the trip to Arizona with no ticket in hand. Many feel the trip will be worth it, no matter what.
“I think it’s going to be amazing. The atmosphere, the people I know that are going and all that I’ve read on Twitter about all the Auburn people being out there. I just think it’s going to be an incredible, incredible time,” said Lindsay DiTullo.
“Hopefully, somebody that couldn’t sell there’s online may be selling it there, hoping to get their money back. So maybe I’ll get lucky,” explained Gary Hogeland.
They are hoping if the Tigers can pull of a “Hail Mary” on the field, then one can happen for the fans in Glendale.
“It would be amazing. It would be something to tell the grandkids,” said Harris.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
AUBURN, AL (WBRC) - The Auburn Tigers football team left for Glendale, Arizona on Monday, headed for the BCS National Championship Game.
Many Auburn fans are gearing up for their own trips to Glendale, but a lot of folks will be traveling without a game ticket.
“We have everything but tickets. We have airline. We have a rental car. We have a hotel booked. And we are just searching for tickets with our fingers crossed,” said Robert Harris.
Tickets for sale on websites like stubhub.com are starting at $2,000. It is a price many fans cannot afford to pay, but it is not stopping them from making the trip.
“It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to go out there and see this. Back in 2004, we got to go to the Sugar Bowl, and that was a great time. Can’t pass up a chance to go see Arizona, a beautiful place, and see us win a national championship,” explained Harris.
The Auburn Alumni Association estimates there will be thousands of Auburn fans making the trip to Arizona with no ticket in hand. Many feel the trip will be worth it, no matter what.
“I think it’s going to be amazing. The atmosphere, the people I know that are going and all that I’ve read on Twitter about all the Auburn people being out there. I just think it’s going to be an incredible, incredible time,” said Lindsay DiTullo.
“Hopefully, somebody that couldn’t sell there’s online may be selling it there, hoping to get their money back. So maybe I’ll get lucky,” explained Gary Hogeland.
They are hoping if the Tigers can pull of a “Hail Mary” on the field, then one can happen for the fans in Glendale.
“It would be amazing. It would be something to tell the grandkids,” said Harris.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Barber's Dairy offers $10k reward for double murder info
By Melanie Posey
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A Birmingham company is teaming up with Birmingham police in hopes of helping them find the person responsible for killing a nail salon owner and his common law wife. Barber’s Dairy is offering a $10,000 reward to the person who helps police arrest and convict a suspect in the death of 60-year-old Jacky Nuguyen and 50-year old Nhut Phan.
Nuguyen owned Top Perfect Nail Salon located on Bessemer Super Highway near Five Points West in Birmingham. A customer and employee found he and Phan shot to death inside the salon on Monday, December 27th.
Police will not say if the deaths were the result of the a robbery. And they still have no suspects in the case.
“Right now, we're still at the same spot we were on the day they were discovered,” said Sgt. Johnny Williams, a spokesperson for the Birmingham Police Department. He strongly feels someone in the community knows something and he hopes the reward money will help them come forward.
“Hopefully it will catch someone's ear. They may be in need of the money, they may have info and be afraid to come forward,” Williams says. “In any case, we hope they will give us a call and get this money as well as other money available through Crimestoppers."
Williams stresses that the $10,000 being offered by Barber’s Dairy comes only after a person is arrested and convicted for the killings.
Crimestoppers is offering a $2,000 reward. That will be given to the person that leads police to the arrest of a suspect.
If anyone has information in this case, they’re asked to call Birmingham Police at 254-1764 or Crimestoppers at 254-777. You can remain anonymous when you call.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - A Birmingham company is teaming up with Birmingham police in hopes of helping them find the person responsible for killing a nail salon owner and his common law wife. Barber’s Dairy is offering a $10,000 reward to the person who helps police arrest and convict a suspect in the death of 60-year-old Jacky Nuguyen and 50-year old Nhut Phan.
Nuguyen owned Top Perfect Nail Salon located on Bessemer Super Highway near Five Points West in Birmingham. A customer and employee found he and Phan shot to death inside the salon on Monday, December 27th.
Police will not say if the deaths were the result of the a robbery. And they still have no suspects in the case.
“Right now, we're still at the same spot we were on the day they were discovered,” said Sgt. Johnny Williams, a spokesperson for the Birmingham Police Department. He strongly feels someone in the community knows something and he hopes the reward money will help them come forward.
“Hopefully it will catch someone's ear. They may be in need of the money, they may have info and be afraid to come forward,” Williams says. “In any case, we hope they will give us a call and get this money as well as other money available through Crimestoppers."
Williams stresses that the $10,000 being offered by Barber’s Dairy comes only after a person is arrested and convicted for the killings.
Crimestoppers is offering a $2,000 reward. That will be given to the person that leads police to the arrest of a suspect.
If anyone has information in this case, they’re asked to call Birmingham Police at 254-1764 or Crimestoppers at 254-777. You can remain anonymous when you call.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Man shot and killed near Talladega city limits
TALLADEGA, AL (WBRC) - Police in Talladega are investigating the murder of a man over the weekend.
The coroner says 56-year-old Michael Littlejohn was shot and killed near the Talladega city limits Sunday.
Yesterday, friends laid flowers where Littlejohn's body was discovered just off Dunn Lane. They say he was a retired autoworker who had returned home after working for years in Detroit.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The coroner says 56-year-old Michael Littlejohn was shot and killed near the Talladega city limits Sunday.
Yesterday, friends laid flowers where Littlejohn's body was discovered just off Dunn Lane. They say he was a retired autoworker who had returned home after working for years in Detroit.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Monday, January 3, 2011
BBVA Compass Bowl week brings excitement and money to area
By Jonathan Hardison
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - It's BBVA Compass Bowl week for Birmingham. Monday, the University of Kentucky's football team rolled into town for Saturday's BBVA Compass Bowl.
The University of Pittsburgh arrives Tuesday and the big question now is how many Wildcat and Panther fans are coming to help boost the metro area economy?
Never missing a chance to recruit new fans, the Kentucky wildcat, UK head coach Joker Phillips, and several players headed straight for a free skills camp for Birmingham-area Boys and Girls Club members at the BJCC.
"Today, what we want to do is make sure we leave that with these kids, make sure they are doing what they're supposed to do in the classroom, giving back to this community here in Birmingham, and also making sure they're taking care of their health and their bodies," said Phillips.
"This was Kentucky's idea and we're happy they came in," said BBVA Compass Bowl representative Mark Meadow. "They wanted to be part of the community and have an impact, and so they come up with this idea and came to town and put on this clinic for local kids, and we're pretty excited about that."
Bowl organizers hope that excitement builds over the week because Pitt and UK have struggled to sell their allotment of tickets, but "Right now local ticket sales are a little above where we were at this point last year," Meadows said. "Our corporate participation is up this year, so I think we'll probably be somewhere north of 40,000 on Saturday. Bigger than last year? I think there's the potential to be with a few days left, we certainly hope so."
Last year, the game was the day after New Year's Day and still part of the holiday weekend. This year, it's a week later, and controversy swirls around the Pitt football program after they relieved head coach Dave Wannstedt of his duties, and then fired his replacement Michael Haywood on Saturday after he was arrested for an alleged domestic assault.
But the bowl host committee still thinks this will be a multi-million dollar economic impact on the city, especially as we get closer to gameday.
"I would hope that they would come and support their teams, and we'll see how that works out for them," said Meadow. "I think the last I had heard, Pitt's gonna travel probably a little more than UConn last year, so we feel pretty good about that."
Pittsburgh arrives in town Tuesday afternoon. Both teams will practice throughout the week.
The big street festival in Five Points South is Friday night.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) - It's BBVA Compass Bowl week for Birmingham. Monday, the University of Kentucky's football team rolled into town for Saturday's BBVA Compass Bowl.
The University of Pittsburgh arrives Tuesday and the big question now is how many Wildcat and Panther fans are coming to help boost the metro area economy?
Never missing a chance to recruit new fans, the Kentucky wildcat, UK head coach Joker Phillips, and several players headed straight for a free skills camp for Birmingham-area Boys and Girls Club members at the BJCC.
"Today, what we want to do is make sure we leave that with these kids, make sure they are doing what they're supposed to do in the classroom, giving back to this community here in Birmingham, and also making sure they're taking care of their health and their bodies," said Phillips.
"This was Kentucky's idea and we're happy they came in," said BBVA Compass Bowl representative Mark Meadow. "They wanted to be part of the community and have an impact, and so they come up with this idea and came to town and put on this clinic for local kids, and we're pretty excited about that."
Bowl organizers hope that excitement builds over the week because Pitt and UK have struggled to sell their allotment of tickets, but "Right now local ticket sales are a little above where we were at this point last year," Meadows said. "Our corporate participation is up this year, so I think we'll probably be somewhere north of 40,000 on Saturday. Bigger than last year? I think there's the potential to be with a few days left, we certainly hope so."
Last year, the game was the day after New Year's Day and still part of the holiday weekend. This year, it's a week later, and controversy swirls around the Pitt football program after they relieved head coach Dave Wannstedt of his duties, and then fired his replacement Michael Haywood on Saturday after he was arrested for an alleged domestic assault.
But the bowl host committee still thinks this will be a multi-million dollar economic impact on the city, especially as we get closer to gameday.
"I would hope that they would come and support their teams, and we'll see how that works out for them," said Meadow. "I think the last I had heard, Pitt's gonna travel probably a little more than UConn last year, so we feel pretty good about that."
Pittsburgh arrives in town Tuesday afternoon. Both teams will practice throughout the week.
The big street festival in Five Points South is Friday night.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Artur Davis joins international law firm
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) – Former U.S. Representative Artur Davis has been announced as a new lateral partner in an international law firm. On Monday, Davis joined the ranks of law firm SNR Denton, a legal practice working in 32 different countries.
Davis left politics behind after leaving his position as the congressman for the 7th Congressional District for a bid for the Alabama governor’s office. He was defeated in the Democratic primary by Ron Sparks.
After the defeat, Davis told the media he was done with politics and would return to practicing law.
Davis will join SNR Denton’s White Collar and Government Investigation teams.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Davis left politics behind after leaving his position as the congressman for the 7th Congressional District for a bid for the Alabama governor’s office. He was defeated in the Democratic primary by Ron Sparks.
After the defeat, Davis told the media he was done with politics and would return to practicing law.
Davis will join SNR Denton’s White Collar and Government Investigation teams.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Auburn Tigers leaving for Arizona
AUBURN, AL (WBRC) - The Auburn Tigers leave Monday for the national championship game in Arizona. The Tigers will board buses for Atlanta and then hop a jet to Arizona.
Coach Gene Chizik and the team worked through a final practice Sunday. Chizik says he feels the team is where they need to be before the game. Players will resume practice on Tuesday in Arizona.
FOX6 Sports Director Rick Karle is also traveling to Arizona Monday. Look for his reports starting Tuesday.
Jeh Jeh Pruitt will be headed out there Tuesday. His reports begin Wednesday morning.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Coach Gene Chizik and the team worked through a final practice Sunday. Chizik says he feels the team is where they need to be before the game. Players will resume practice on Tuesday in Arizona.
FOX6 Sports Director Rick Karle is also traveling to Arizona Monday. Look for his reports starting Tuesday.
Jeh Jeh Pruitt will be headed out there Tuesday. His reports begin Wednesday morning.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Attorneys looking for more info on lobbyist's e-bingo testimony
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) - New developments have been made in the federal bribes for bingo case.
Attorneys for defendant Ronnie Gilley want more information from a lobbyist who has changed his plea to guilty. Gilley's attorneys want to know everything that Jarrod Massey has told investigators since changing his plea. They also want to see the entire grand jury testimony as well as e-mails and text messages between prosecutors and witnesses and information on federal wiretaps.
A judge has not ruled on the motion.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Attorneys for defendant Ronnie Gilley want more information from a lobbyist who has changed his plea to guilty. Gilley's attorneys want to know everything that Jarrod Massey has told investigators since changing his plea. They also want to see the entire grand jury testimony as well as e-mails and text messages between prosecutors and witnesses and information on federal wiretaps.
A judge has not ruled on the motion.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Operation Safe Holidays declared a success
MONTGOMERY, AL (WBRC) – The Director of the Alabama Department of Public Safety says Operation Safe Holidays is a success.
“The campaign was a success, and 10 more people were able to spend the holidays with their loved ones,” said Colonel F.A. Bingham.
Operation Safe Holidays ran from December 10th through January 2nd. During the campaign, state troopers increased their presence on the roadways and promoted traffic safety.
Troopers report investigating 569 traffic fatalities in 2010, 10 fewer than in 2009 and part of a decline that has been constant since 2006 when the number was 828.
492 DUI arrests were made during the campaign and 14,395 speeding citations were issued. 69 reckless driving citations were given. 6,916 motorists were cited on seat belt infractions.
Troopers also assisted 1,322 motorists at this time.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
“The campaign was a success, and 10 more people were able to spend the holidays with their loved ones,” said Colonel F.A. Bingham.
Operation Safe Holidays ran from December 10th through January 2nd. During the campaign, state troopers increased their presence on the roadways and promoted traffic safety.
Troopers report investigating 569 traffic fatalities in 2010, 10 fewer than in 2009 and part of a decline that has been constant since 2006 when the number was 828.
492 DUI arrests were made during the campaign and 14,395 speeding citations were issued. 69 reckless driving citations were given. 6,916 motorists were cited on seat belt infractions.
Troopers also assisted 1,322 motorists at this time.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Authorities investigating Blount County domestic incident
HAYDEN, AL (WBRC) - Blount County authorities are investigating a domestic violence incident. Sheriff's deputies were called to a home on Shipp Road in Hayden around 11:30 p.m. on Sunday.
A spokesperson says this may be a shooting involving people who live at the home.
Warrior Police Department and Alabama state troopers assisted the sheriff's department. Authorities have one person in custody.
There is no word yet on who the victim is or their condition.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
A spokesperson says this may be a shooting involving people who live at the home.
Warrior Police Department and Alabama state troopers assisted the sheriff's department. Authorities have one person in custody.
There is no word yet on who the victim is or their condition.
Copyright 2010 WBRC. All rights reserved.
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