Power crews from Alabama Power and several other states have now restored power to 367,000 customers since the storms and tornadoes on Wednesday.
The peak outages number was 412,229 at the height of the storms.
Alabama Power says they still have 44,455 as of 5:00 p.m. on Sunday.
Outages by region of the state at 5 p.m. were:
-Birmingham area (Jefferson, Shelby counties) – 18,464
-Eastern areas (Including Anniston, Gadsden, Oxford) – 3,689
Western areas (including Bibb, Walker, Tuscaloosa counties) – 22,230
Southern areas (including Selma, Montgomery, Opelika) – 72
. Crews from Arkansas, Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, Virginia, Louisiana, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Michigan, Wisconsin and the Carolinas have joined Alabama Power crews and support staff in the effort.
The company plans to have 95% of customers’ power restored to those who can receive power by midnight on Wednesday. Current numbers place them at 89%.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Mayor Bell discusses moving neighborhoods at BBA meeting
At a gathering for Birmingham Business Alliance leaders, Birmingham Mayor William Bell discussed the idea of shifting neighborhoods that have repeatedly been struck by severe storms.
"We want to rebuild these communities, maybe shift some of them as we rebuild them to a better location,” said Bell.
The Mayor said that 900-1000 homes in the Birmingham area were damaged. Bell said he is worried the citizens may move from Birmingham.
“Birmingham took a hit in the last census,” said Bell. “We don’t want to do anything to drive people away from Birmingham.”
The mayor’s idea revolves around keeping people in their same communities, but using civil engineering to shift the areas to make them safer from tornadoes.
Later, at a meeting for Birmingham city employees, Bell received applause when said stated “We’ve got to build our neighborhoods bigger and stronger than before.”
Bell said he would talk to apartment owners to find temporary housing and adds that FEMA will defray the cost.
The mayor also says he will be setting up an employee benevolence fund to help other communities. He says employees should give at least one hour’s pay, but the mayor plans to give more from his own pay.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
"We want to rebuild these communities, maybe shift some of them as we rebuild them to a better location,” said Bell.
The Mayor said that 900-1000 homes in the Birmingham area were damaged. Bell said he is worried the citizens may move from Birmingham.
“Birmingham took a hit in the last census,” said Bell. “We don’t want to do anything to drive people away from Birmingham.”
The mayor’s idea revolves around keeping people in their same communities, but using civil engineering to shift the areas to make them safer from tornadoes.
Later, at a meeting for Birmingham city employees, Bell received applause when said stated “We’ve got to build our neighborhoods bigger and stronger than before.”
Bell said he would talk to apartment owners to find temporary housing and adds that FEMA will defray the cost.
The mayor also says he will be setting up an employee benevolence fund to help other communities. He says employees should give at least one hour’s pay, but the mayor plans to give more from his own pay.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Alabama Power: service restored to over 160,000
Alabama Power says they have managed to restore power to 160,000 homes since the peak of Wednesday’s storms.
At 4:00 a.m. on Friday, outages statewide totaled 250,745.
Outages by region of the state were:
Birmingham area (Jefferson, Shelby counties) – 113,803
Eastern areas (Including Anniston, Gadsden, Oxford) – 20,057
Western areas (including Bibb, Walker, Tuscaloosa counties) – 111,674
Southern areas (including Selma, Montgomery, Opelika) – 5,211
If your power is out, officials at Alabama Power ask that you call the automated reporting system at 1-800-888-APCO (2726).
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
At 4:00 a.m. on Friday, outages statewide totaled 250,745.
Outages by region of the state were:
Birmingham area (Jefferson, Shelby counties) – 113,803
Eastern areas (Including Anniston, Gadsden, Oxford) – 20,057
Western areas (including Bibb, Walker, Tuscaloosa counties) – 111,674
Southern areas (including Selma, Montgomery, Opelika) – 5,211
If your power is out, officials at Alabama Power ask that you call the automated reporting system at 1-800-888-APCO (2726).
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Another yogurt spot heading to Mountain Brook
A new frozen yogurt shop is scheduled to open in Mountain Brook, despite some opposition from nearby business owners.
Monday night, Mountain Brook city councilors cleared the way for Pinkberry to open in Mountain Brook Village. It is a west coast-based high end frozen yogurt chain.
Councilors determined Pinkberry falls under the "ice cream parlor" category rather than "restaurant" category of city code, and therefore doesn't violate a conditional use ordinance or building covenant.
Pinkberry officials applauded the decision.
"We feel like our council made the right decision under the law," said Pinkberry attorney Charlie Beavers, "The City Council is a legislative body it is bound by the law of Alabama, and tonight it acted within the boundaries of those laws."
Several nearby business owners expressed their opposition to councilors. They argue Pinkberry would add to parking problems in the congested center, and a national chain business doesn't fit in an area with predominantly locally owned stores.
"My only concern is, that everyone around me will be impacted by the parking problem and it's getting worse," said Jay Connor, the owner of Mountain Brook Creamery.
Others also expressed concerns about a yogurt shop opening just two doors down from an existing ice cream store, but city councilors determined they could not intervene.
Pinkberry officials hope to open the new store in about two months.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Monday night, Mountain Brook city councilors cleared the way for Pinkberry to open in Mountain Brook Village. It is a west coast-based high end frozen yogurt chain.
Councilors determined Pinkberry falls under the "ice cream parlor" category rather than "restaurant" category of city code, and therefore doesn't violate a conditional use ordinance or building covenant.
Pinkberry officials applauded the decision.
"We feel like our council made the right decision under the law," said Pinkberry attorney Charlie Beavers, "The City Council is a legislative body it is bound by the law of Alabama, and tonight it acted within the boundaries of those laws."
Several nearby business owners expressed their opposition to councilors. They argue Pinkberry would add to parking problems in the congested center, and a national chain business doesn't fit in an area with predominantly locally owned stores.
"My only concern is, that everyone around me will be impacted by the parking problem and it's getting worse," said Jay Connor, the owner of Mountain Brook Creamery.
Others also expressed concerns about a yogurt shop opening just two doors down from an existing ice cream store, but city councilors determined they could not intervene.
Pinkberry officials hope to open the new store in about two months.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Homewood Council hears from residents
For the first time in several years, Homewood taxpayers had their turn Monday to tell city leaders how their money should be spent on big projects in coming years. Homewood's mayor made it clear Monday that he has some ideas about where the city should spend its project money, but, "See what you think about what we're trying to accomplish," Mayor Scott McBrayer said. "Whether you like it, don't like it, nothing's set in stone at this point, that's why we're trying to have the discussion first. Then we'll start the process depending on how the night goes."
McBrayer's top 5 list for projects starts with straightening out West Oxmoor Road where it goes under I-65, followed by extending the greenway near Lakeshore Drive, building a new rec center, building a new city jail and selling the existing property, and finally, building Patriot Park in West Homewood.
Most of the voters who stepped up to the podium Monday said they liked those ideas, but the majority of them also focused on a much smaller scale subject, more or better sidewalks.
"This would allow someone to park anywhere in downtown Homewood and walk through that area," said psychiatrist Mark Westphal. "You'd have a thriving area. Downtown's awesome, you could extend it a few streets by stretching streetscape sidewalks."
Several people mentioned a dog park, and almost everyone agreed extending the greenway to the entrance to Red Mountain Park is a must.
"You have great opportunities here to improve property values, to bring businesses into Homewood who haven't thought about coming here because of recreational past time," said one greenway supporter.
The council plans to take the feedback it heard tonight and begin drawing up a long-range spending plan for the next 5 years based on these recommendations.
The mayor said that rec center that's gotten a lot of attention is at least a year and a half away from turning the first shovel of dirt.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
McBrayer's top 5 list for projects starts with straightening out West Oxmoor Road where it goes under I-65, followed by extending the greenway near Lakeshore Drive, building a new rec center, building a new city jail and selling the existing property, and finally, building Patriot Park in West Homewood.
Most of the voters who stepped up to the podium Monday said they liked those ideas, but the majority of them also focused on a much smaller scale subject, more or better sidewalks.
"This would allow someone to park anywhere in downtown Homewood and walk through that area," said psychiatrist Mark Westphal. "You'd have a thriving area. Downtown's awesome, you could extend it a few streets by stretching streetscape sidewalks."
Several people mentioned a dog park, and almost everyone agreed extending the greenway to the entrance to Red Mountain Park is a must.
"You have great opportunities here to improve property values, to bring businesses into Homewood who haven't thought about coming here because of recreational past time," said one greenway supporter.
The council plans to take the feedback it heard tonight and begin drawing up a long-range spending plan for the next 5 years based on these recommendations.
The mayor said that rec center that's gotten a lot of attention is at least a year and a half away from turning the first shovel of dirt.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
2 dead in wreck involving state trooper
An Alabama state trooper responding to a wreck was involved in a crash that killed two people on Monday.
It happened in Limestone County at the intersection of Lucas Ferry Road and Moyers Road.
Authorities say the state trooper slammed into a vehicle, killing two people. The trooper was not hurt.
The state's accident investigation team is investigating the crash.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
It happened in Limestone County at the intersection of Lucas Ferry Road and Moyers Road.
Authorities say the state trooper slammed into a vehicle, killing two people. The trooper was not hurt.
The state's accident investigation team is investigating the crash.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Satellite courthouses closed in Jefferson County
If you are going to a Jefferson County courthouse today, you may want to get there early. Longer lines are expected now that all four satellite locations are closed.
Taxpayers will be forced to use the downtown Birmingham and the Bessemer locations for certain services.
You probably remember the long lines and the hours of waiting the last time the satellite offices were closed in 2009. This time, the county says it is ready and you won't have to be an extra in a crowd scene.
“We will be prepared to staff,” said Commission President David Carrington. “We went through the numbers and hopefully we will not see the situation that occurred several years ago.”
That does not mean you will not be waiting longer than normal to renew your license, get a new title or tag.
“I think there will be lines,” said Carrington. “I think the question is how long the lines will be. I would encourage anyone to use the mail, and use the internet.”
“I can't foretell the future but we're going to do the best we can to maintain and to help our citizens,” said Commissioner George Bowman. “Especially the ones who put us in office and asked us to legislate for them.”
All of the extra staffing at the main and Bessemer courthouses will not be ready first thing Monday because it takes time to set up their phones, computers and other office devices. Additionally, all of the services of the satellite courthouses that used to be divided into separate lines will all be mixed together.
County officials recommend you use the county's website or mail to avoid the lines.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Taxpayers will be forced to use the downtown Birmingham and the Bessemer locations for certain services.
You probably remember the long lines and the hours of waiting the last time the satellite offices were closed in 2009. This time, the county says it is ready and you won't have to be an extra in a crowd scene.
“We will be prepared to staff,” said Commission President David Carrington. “We went through the numbers and hopefully we will not see the situation that occurred several years ago.”
That does not mean you will not be waiting longer than normal to renew your license, get a new title or tag.
“I think there will be lines,” said Carrington. “I think the question is how long the lines will be. I would encourage anyone to use the mail, and use the internet.”
“I can't foretell the future but we're going to do the best we can to maintain and to help our citizens,” said Commissioner George Bowman. “Especially the ones who put us in office and asked us to legislate for them.”
All of the extra staffing at the main and Bessemer courthouses will not be ready first thing Monday because it takes time to set up their phones, computers and other office devices. Additionally, all of the services of the satellite courthouses that used to be divided into separate lines will all be mixed together.
County officials recommend you use the county's website or mail to avoid the lines.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Gabe Watson returns to court this week
The Hoover man accused of killing his wife on their Australian honeymoon while scuba diving will be back in a Jefferson County courthouse, this week. Gabe Watson will go before a judge Thursday morning.
Watson's attorneys have filed a motion asking the judge to dismiss all of the state charges. If the motion is denied, no one's sure when Watson's trial would begin.
The trial was originally set for late May, but the judge delayed that date in the face of courthouse security cutbacks because of the county's budget problems.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Watson's attorneys have filed a motion asking the judge to dismiss all of the state charges. If the motion is denied, no one's sure when Watson's trial would begin.
The trial was originally set for late May, but the judge delayed that date in the face of courthouse security cutbacks because of the county's budget problems.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Friday, April 22, 2011
GA man killed in Cleburne County accident
The Alabama Department of Public Safety is reporting that one person was killed on Sunday night in Cleburne County.
43-year-old Sammy N. Wheeler of Waco, Georgia was killed in a 1-vehicle accident 10 miles East of Heflin on County Road 66 around 7:23 p.m.
Wheeler was traveling in a 1998 Ford pickup truck at the time.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
43-year-old Sammy N. Wheeler of Waco, Georgia was killed in a 1-vehicle accident 10 miles East of Heflin on County Road 66 around 7:23 p.m.
Wheeler was traveling in a 1998 Ford pickup truck at the time.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuscaloosa County wants to extend temporary tax
The Tuscaloosa County Commission wants to keep a temporary one cent sales tax in place until 2016.
Money from the tax goes to Tuscaloosa County and city school construction projects.
This allows the Tuscaloosa County School Board to pledge $50 million dollars towards a bond issue for construction projects.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Money from the tax goes to Tuscaloosa County and city school construction projects.
This allows the Tuscaloosa County School Board to pledge $50 million dollars towards a bond issue for construction projects.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Alabaster looking to create city school system
City leaders in alabaster are spending $32,000 to look into setting up an independent school district.
The money will cover the contract for a consultant who is studying the proposal. It will not come cheap and it will not happen fast.
Alabaster Mayor David Frings says breaking off from the Shelby County School System could require a tax increase. It could be three years before the council votes on a final proposal.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The money will cover the contract for a consultant who is studying the proposal. It will not come cheap and it will not happen fast.
Alabaster Mayor David Frings says breaking off from the Shelby County School System could require a tax increase. It could be three years before the council votes on a final proposal.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Last two Jeffco satellite courthouses to close
Friday is the last day of operation for two Jefferson County satellite courthouses.
The county commission ordered all four satellite offices to close after a judge struck down the county's occupational tax. Two closed last week. The county closed the forestdale and gardendale offices, last friday in hopes of saving money.
Today, the Homewood and Center Point satellite courthouses will close their doors at the end of business.
The closings mean longer lines at the downtown Birmingham Courthouse and the Bessemer Courthouse for car tags and other services. Many taxpayers will remember long lines they were forced to stand in back in 2009 when operations were halted at the satellite offices.
In addition to the closings, county workers are now on a 32 hour work week.
Jefferson County commissioners are working with the county's legislative delegation to come up with ways to offset the $70 million lost with the occupational tax. They are proposing new taxes including occupational, sales, and-or a business license fee.
Commissioners are asking the legislature to give them modified home rule to allow them to set their own taxes and redistribution of earmarked sales tax revenue like funds going to the indigent care fund, the BJCC and the State Health Department.
Commissioners say the cuts already made will save about $21 million a year.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The county commission ordered all four satellite offices to close after a judge struck down the county's occupational tax. Two closed last week. The county closed the forestdale and gardendale offices, last friday in hopes of saving money.
Today, the Homewood and Center Point satellite courthouses will close their doors at the end of business.
The closings mean longer lines at the downtown Birmingham Courthouse and the Bessemer Courthouse for car tags and other services. Many taxpayers will remember long lines they were forced to stand in back in 2009 when operations were halted at the satellite offices.
In addition to the closings, county workers are now on a 32 hour work week.
Jefferson County commissioners are working with the county's legislative delegation to come up with ways to offset the $70 million lost with the occupational tax. They are proposing new taxes including occupational, sales, and-or a business license fee.
Commissioners are asking the legislature to give them modified home rule to allow them to set their own taxes and redistribution of earmarked sales tax revenue like funds going to the indigent care fund, the BJCC and the State Health Department.
Commissioners say the cuts already made will save about $21 million a year.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Brookwood students return to class
The water is back on and students at Brookwood Schools in Tuscaloosa County will return to classes today.
They were sent home around 9:30 a.m. on Thursday because there was no water.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
They were sent home around 9:30 a.m. on Thursday because there was no water.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Mayor Bell discusses officers' reinstatement
Birmingham Mayor William Bell weighed in on Thursday on whether or not five former Birmingham police officers should get their jobs back. The five officers were fired over a beating incident. Dashcam video shows them jumping on a suspect following a high speed chase.
The Jefferson County Personnel board says the men should get their jobs back.
During a news conference at the opening of the Birmingham Zoo's Trails of Africa exhibit, Bell was asked about the reinstatements. He says Police Chief A.C. Roper will announce when the officers are back on patrol.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The Jefferson County Personnel board says the men should get their jobs back.
During a news conference at the opening of the Birmingham Zoo's Trails of Africa exhibit, Bell was asked about the reinstatements. He says Police Chief A.C. Roper will announce when the officers are back on patrol.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Coach recovering after being struck by lightning
In Tuscaloosa County, a coach at Walker Elementary is recovering after he was struck by lightning.
The lightning struck a building and then went through the coach.
He was treated and released from DCH Medical Center and is recovering at home.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The lightning struck a building and then went through the coach.
He was treated and released from DCH Medical Center and is recovering at home.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Alabamians once again cleaning up storm damage
Storms once again swept through Alabama on Wednesday and some residents are dealing with storm damage for the second time in one week.
In Walker County, downed trees are the largest nuisance in the area. The Jasper Police Department says they have received 35 incidents of downed trees. Several of the trees have fallen on power lines in the area. This is causing a delay for the tree cleanup as crews cannot get near the trees until Alabama Power crews remove the downed line.
In Hueytown, firefighters are dealing with an early morning house fire. Fire crews say the blaze started sometime between 12:30 a.m. and 1:00 a.m. The case of the fire is unknown, but the storm is being considered as a factor since a downed power line is near the home.
The storms that moved through the state Wednesday morning injured a person in Cullman County and the EMA says two homes were damaged. A tree fell on the roof of a home in Holly Pond. The person inside suffered minor injuries. Another tree snapped and fell on the roof of a Cullman home. Tree limbs are still scattered throughout the county.
The storms also caused more damage in Tuscaloosa County. Trees hit homes and several buildings in downtown Tuscaloosa, including a church. Deputies had a big task trying to cut a large tree up and move it after it fell across Cumberland Road.
Firefighters say a lightning strike may have started a house fire in the Northriver Yacht Club neighborhood in Tuscaloosa. The fire spread from the roof into the attic and throughout the house. No one was injured.
Many people in Tuscaloosa are still cleaning up from last Friday's storms.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
In Walker County, downed trees are the largest nuisance in the area. The Jasper Police Department says they have received 35 incidents of downed trees. Several of the trees have fallen on power lines in the area. This is causing a delay for the tree cleanup as crews cannot get near the trees until Alabama Power crews remove the downed line.
In Hueytown, firefighters are dealing with an early morning house fire. Fire crews say the blaze started sometime between 12:30 a.m. and 1:00 a.m. The case of the fire is unknown, but the storm is being considered as a factor since a downed power line is near the home.
The storms that moved through the state Wednesday morning injured a person in Cullman County and the EMA says two homes were damaged. A tree fell on the roof of a home in Holly Pond. The person inside suffered minor injuries. Another tree snapped and fell on the roof of a Cullman home. Tree limbs are still scattered throughout the county.
The storms also caused more damage in Tuscaloosa County. Trees hit homes and several buildings in downtown Tuscaloosa, including a church. Deputies had a big task trying to cut a large tree up and move it after it fell across Cumberland Road.
Firefighters say a lightning strike may have started a house fire in the Northriver Yacht Club neighborhood in Tuscaloosa. The fire spread from the roof into the attic and throughout the house. No one was injured.
Many people in Tuscaloosa are still cleaning up from last Friday's storms.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Opelika shooting suspect may face capital murder charges
A grand jury will consider capital murder charges against the man suspected of killing his mother-in-law and shooting his wife and her grandmother in Opelika.
Thomas Franklin May III could face the death penalty if convicted. Prosecutors say he shot the three women and injured his daughter on the campus of Southern Union Community College before turning himself into a television crew.
Officers say May admitted committing the crimes.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Thomas Franklin May III could face the death penalty if convicted. Prosecutors say he shot the three women and injured his daughter on the campus of Southern Union Community College before turning himself into a television crew.
Officers say May admitted committing the crimes.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Victoryland taken over by state after tax trouble
Victoryland is now in the state of Alabama’s hands.
Owner Milton McGregor failed to pay more than $1 million in state and local property taxes by a January 1st deadline. The property was put up for auction yesterday.
No one bid on it, so it now goes to the state.
In the meantime, McGregor can keep operating the dog track. He has three years to pay the taxes and clear the title to the property.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Owner Milton McGregor failed to pay more than $1 million in state and local property taxes by a January 1st deadline. The property was put up for auction yesterday.
No one bid on it, so it now goes to the state.
In the meantime, McGregor can keep operating the dog track. He has three years to pay the taxes and clear the title to the property.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
BP giving grant money to promote beach concerts
More BP grant money is going to promote concerts and other events on Alabama's coast.
The oil company is giving $3 million for a concert series in Orange Beach and the Hangout Music Festival in Gulf Shores.
Other money will go to advertising and special programs at places including Dauphin Island.
In all, funds from the grant will be distributed over a two-year period to encourage tourism on the coast.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The oil company is giving $3 million for a concert series in Orange Beach and the Hangout Music Festival in Gulf Shores.
Other money will go to advertising and special programs at places including Dauphin Island.
In all, funds from the grant will be distributed over a two-year period to encourage tourism on the coast.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Sewer receiver to discuss rate hikes
The man assigned to oversee Jefferson County’s sewer department delivers what could be a critical speech at this hour. It is a speech that could give you an idea of how much your sewer bill could be.
The court appointed overseer, John Young, plans to make recommendations to a federal judge in the case pitting the county against its creditors in that multi-billion dollar sewer system overhaul. Young says he will make the presentation to the court in mid-May. A sewer rate increase is expected to be part of that plan.
His speech before the Kiwanis Club on Tuesday launches a series of appearances where he will explain his reasoning for any recommended rate hike. It is believed young could recommend a double digit increase. That is something that has sparked warnings from some county commissioners.
Commissioner George Bowman says any increase would be unacceptable. As a group, the commission has warned an increase considered unfairly high would be taken back to court.
Commissioner David Carrington says in his conversation with Young that it appears the amount of an increase has not been reached; there are several factors to consider. The county continues its negotiations with creditors and an agreement could impact Young's recommendation.
The county also has the green light to pursue a lawsuit against JP Morgan Chase and others for claims the county was sold corrupt financial products. That is largely seen as leverage for the county in those continued negotiations.
Young says he has not reached a final recommendation, but instead is working on the analysis to back his final plan.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The court appointed overseer, John Young, plans to make recommendations to a federal judge in the case pitting the county against its creditors in that multi-billion dollar sewer system overhaul. Young says he will make the presentation to the court in mid-May. A sewer rate increase is expected to be part of that plan.
His speech before the Kiwanis Club on Tuesday launches a series of appearances where he will explain his reasoning for any recommended rate hike. It is believed young could recommend a double digit increase. That is something that has sparked warnings from some county commissioners.
Commissioner George Bowman says any increase would be unacceptable. As a group, the commission has warned an increase considered unfairly high would be taken back to court.
Commissioner David Carrington says in his conversation with Young that it appears the amount of an increase has not been reached; there are several factors to consider. The county continues its negotiations with creditors and an agreement could impact Young's recommendation.
The county also has the green light to pursue a lawsuit against JP Morgan Chase and others for claims the county was sold corrupt financial products. That is largely seen as leverage for the county in those continued negotiations.
Young says he has not reached a final recommendation, but instead is working on the analysis to back his final plan.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
City councilor wants answers on police situations
Roderick Royal announced Tuesday that he would authorize an investigation into recent situations by the Birmingham police department.
Royal says he wants the police chief and all of the chief deputies to come before city councilors and talk in a very "broad" way.
He adds that he wants more information about what has happened with 2 police beating tapes and a recent police-involved shooting that ended with man dead.
The meeting is planned to be in a closed door setting at 3:00 p.m. on April 27th.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Royal says he wants the police chief and all of the chief deputies to come before city councilors and talk in a very "broad" way.
He adds that he wants more information about what has happened with 2 police beating tapes and a recent police-involved shooting that ended with man dead.
The meeting is planned to be in a closed door setting at 3:00 p.m. on April 27th.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Monday, April 18, 2011
19-year-old killed in domestic incident turned homicide
According to the Gadsden Police Department, a domestic incident turned into a homicide over the weekend.
Captain Regina May says police were summoned by Gadsden Fire Medics to 406B North 6th Street on Saturday. At the scene was 19-year-old Amber Davenport, who was unresponsive and suffering from serious head trauma.
Davenport was later pronounced brain dead after being transported to Riverview Regional Medical Center.
Police are holding a suspect in the Etowah County Jail. Murder charges are expected sometime on Monday.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Captain Regina May says police were summoned by Gadsden Fire Medics to 406B North 6th Street on Saturday. At the scene was 19-year-old Amber Davenport, who was unresponsive and suffering from serious head trauma.
Davenport was later pronounced brain dead after being transported to Riverview Regional Medical Center.
Police are holding a suspect in the Etowah County Jail. Murder charges are expected sometime on Monday.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Governor Bentley tours storm damage
Friday's storms damaged homes and businesses and killed a total of seven people across Alabama. Governor Robert Bentley has declared a state of emergency. He toured the damage in Autauga County on Sunday.
The governor met with people affected by the storm in the Boone’s Chapel Community. The storm nearly destroyed the Boone's Chapel Baptist Church. Three of the people killed Friday attended the church.
Henley Hollon lost his brother, nephew and niece to the storm. He says the community support has been a help to his family.
"Me and him had been retired, and I've had six or seven years that we've enjoyed being together; fishing, partnering in gardening, just working together," said Hollon.
Governor Bentley spoke with President Obama by phone on Sunday. He asked for individual claims assistance for the families affected by the storms.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The governor met with people affected by the storm in the Boone’s Chapel Community. The storm nearly destroyed the Boone's Chapel Baptist Church. Three of the people killed Friday attended the church.
Henley Hollon lost his brother, nephew and niece to the storm. He says the community support has been a help to his family.
"Me and him had been retired, and I've had six or seven years that we've enjoyed being together; fishing, partnering in gardening, just working together," said Hollon.
Governor Bentley spoke with President Obama by phone on Sunday. He asked for individual claims assistance for the families affected by the storms.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Red Cross working to help clean up storm damage
The Red Cross and dozens of volunteers are in west Alabama helping folks in Tuscaloosa clean up from Friday’s storms. The county saw heavy damage in some areas.
The American Red Cross has 6 trucks in west Alabama to help homeowners still trying to piece their lives and homes back together.
“We've got mobile feeding units going on, we've got sheltering going on, and for those having a hard time dealing with this situation, we've got mental health counselors on site,” said Chris Osborne with the Red Cross.
Relief workers are still staffing up in places like Geiger, just outside Tuscaloosa, where the Red Cross says at least 60 of the 100 homes in that town were damaged or destroyed by Friday’s tornado touchdown.
“We want to lessen that impact by working with people, attending to their needs, giving them a hug if that's what will help, but the Red Cross is there, will be there till this situation is at a manageable point,” added Osborne.
Even if you only had minor damage to your home, insurance agents are recommending you get your claim filed quickly because it is not just honest contractors wanting to get a piece of the cleanup pie.
Insurance officials say to report the claim immediately. Claims representatives and adjusters being involved in the process as soon as possible will eliminate the possibility of the shams.
The National Weather Service is expected to be back out Monday and through mid-week surveying the remaining damage caused by the deadly storms.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The American Red Cross has 6 trucks in west Alabama to help homeowners still trying to piece their lives and homes back together.
“We've got mobile feeding units going on, we've got sheltering going on, and for those having a hard time dealing with this situation, we've got mental health counselors on site,” said Chris Osborne with the Red Cross.
Relief workers are still staffing up in places like Geiger, just outside Tuscaloosa, where the Red Cross says at least 60 of the 100 homes in that town were damaged or destroyed by Friday’s tornado touchdown.
“We want to lessen that impact by working with people, attending to their needs, giving them a hug if that's what will help, but the Red Cross is there, will be there till this situation is at a manageable point,” added Osborne.
Even if you only had minor damage to your home, insurance agents are recommending you get your claim filed quickly because it is not just honest contractors wanting to get a piece of the cleanup pie.
Insurance officials say to report the claim immediately. Claims representatives and adjusters being involved in the process as soon as possible will eliminate the possibility of the shams.
The National Weather Service is expected to be back out Monday and through mid-week surveying the remaining damage caused by the deadly storms.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Former UA president Andrew Sorensen passes away
Former University of Alabama President Andrew Sorensen has died unexpectedly. He was age 72-years-old.
Sorensen was named President of the Ohio State University Foundation and Senior Vice President for Development in September. OSU's president says Sorensen was a distinguished leader in higher education.
Sorensen also served as President at the University of South Carolina from 2002 to 2008. He is survived by his wife and two sons.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Sorensen was named President of the Ohio State University Foundation and Senior Vice President for Development in September. OSU's president says Sorensen was a distinguished leader in higher education.
Sorensen also served as President at the University of South Carolina from 2002 to 2008. He is survived by his wife and two sons.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Governor, A.G. warn of impending oil spill claim deadline
Governor Robert Bentley and Attorney General Luther Strange are worried that Alabamians could miss out on making oil spill claims. A joint press release from both of their offices says that anyone who suffered damages from the spill needs to file a claim by April 20, 2011 with the federal court against the owner of the Deepwater Horizon, Transocean.
A New Orleans federal court will be handling the litigation against the Transocean. A trial date of February 2012 will determine whether Transocean can limit what it pays claimants.
To make the claims faster, the court has approved a Direct Filing Short Form. Claimants can get the form by calling 1-800-831-8814 or visiting AlabamaOilSpill.com. Filing the form may also join the claimant to the master lawsuit against BP and other defendants. There is no filing fee and a lawyer is not required.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
A New Orleans federal court will be handling the litigation against the Transocean. A trial date of February 2012 will determine whether Transocean can limit what it pays claimants.
To make the claims faster, the court has approved a Direct Filing Short Form. Claimants can get the form by calling 1-800-831-8814 or visiting AlabamaOilSpill.com. Filing the form may also join the claimant to the master lawsuit against BP and other defendants. There is no filing fee and a lawyer is not required.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Walker County man sentenced for cold case murder of his wife
A Walker County man has been sentenced for the 2006 murder of his wife.
Kenny Thompson confessed to the District Attorney in February to the murder of his wife Angela Thompson.
On Thursday, Thompson received 20 years with the possibility of parole. It’s the minimum he could receive under state law.
The very emotional sentencing ended with the victim’s mother asking Thompson how angry he had been to kill. The mother also told Thompson that she loved him and to “let go of what happened.” Thompson then started crying and told the woman he was sorry.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Kenny Thompson confessed to the District Attorney in February to the murder of his wife Angela Thompson.
On Thursday, Thompson received 20 years with the possibility of parole. It’s the minimum he could receive under state law.
The very emotional sentencing ended with the victim’s mother asking Thompson how angry he had been to kill. The mother also told Thompson that she loved him and to “let go of what happened.” Thompson then started crying and told the woman he was sorry.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Bentley pushing tax incentives for businesses
Governor Robert Bentley wants to add new incentives to beef up the state's economy.
Bentley and a bi-partisan group of lawmakers are pushing a plan of tax cuts like the ones that helped lure Mercedes to Alabama nearly two decades ago.
"What we're using is the income taxes of full-time employees to be offered back to the companies as they recoup moneys that they put into these projects," said Bentley about the plan.
Any new projects that use the tax incentives would have to be a partnership with the governor's office, the Department of Revenue and the Alabama Development Office.
Governor Bentley says the state's biggest competitors for big industrial projects already have laws like this in place.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Bentley and a bi-partisan group of lawmakers are pushing a plan of tax cuts like the ones that helped lure Mercedes to Alabama nearly two decades ago.
"What we're using is the income taxes of full-time employees to be offered back to the companies as they recoup moneys that they put into these projects," said Bentley about the plan.
Any new projects that use the tax incentives would have to be a partnership with the governor's office, the Department of Revenue and the Alabama Development Office.
Governor Bentley says the state's biggest competitors for big industrial projects already have laws like this in place.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Vigil to be held for violent crime victims
On Thursday evening in Birmingham, a vigil will be held for victims of violent crime.
V.O.C.A.L., Victims Of Crime And Leniency, is marking National Crime Victim's Rights Week with vigils all across Alabama.
Attorney General Luther Strange will speak at the vigil in Birmingham.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
V.O.C.A.L., Victims Of Crime And Leniency, is marking National Crime Victim's Rights Week with vigils all across Alabama.
Attorney General Luther Strange will speak at the vigil in Birmingham.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Crime labs to be closed down to save money
State officials are closing crime labs in Anniston, Dothan and Florence as an attempt to save money in the state budget.
The Anniston lab is located in the Jacksonville State University Complex at the McClellan property.
Police detectives say the closure could cause delays in processing evidence.
They will also have to drive farther to dispose of drugs.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The Anniston lab is located in the Jacksonville State University Complex at the McClellan property.
Police detectives say the closure could cause delays in processing evidence.
They will also have to drive farther to dispose of drugs.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Birmingham police get involved in reading program
Birmingham police are taking the initiative to get to know schoolchildren in their area.
They are taking part in the "Birmingham Reads" program as guest readers in several classrooms.
Even Chief A.C. Roper is getting involved by reading to a class of children.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
They are taking part in the "Birmingham Reads" program as guest readers in several classrooms.
Even Chief A.C. Roper is getting involved by reading to a class of children.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Van der Sloot accused of violent crimes in Peruvian jail
The prime suspect in the disappearance of Alabama teen Natalee Holloway is now accused of more crimes inside a Peruvian jail.
Dutch media reports Joran van der Sloot has been accused of stabbing at least three other inmates inside the jail. A Dutch magazine reports that he has been involved in several violent confrontations inside Lima's Castro Prison. Prison officials say one inmate had to receive emergency medical treatment after a fight with van der Sloot. Van der Sloot's attorney calls the allegations "a fabrication."
The magazine also alleges that van der Sloot is now addicted to drugs and has been put in solitary confinement.
Van der Sloot has been held in custody since June 2010 over the murder of 21-year-old Stephany Flores. He is accused of robbing and killing Flores in his Lima hotel room in May 2010.
He remains the main suspect in the disappearance of Mountain Brook teen Natalee Holloway. She has not been seen since 2005.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Dutch media reports Joran van der Sloot has been accused of stabbing at least three other inmates inside the jail. A Dutch magazine reports that he has been involved in several violent confrontations inside Lima's Castro Prison. Prison officials say one inmate had to receive emergency medical treatment after a fight with van der Sloot. Van der Sloot's attorney calls the allegations "a fabrication."
The magazine also alleges that van der Sloot is now addicted to drugs and has been put in solitary confinement.
Van der Sloot has been held in custody since June 2010 over the murder of 21-year-old Stephany Flores. He is accused of robbing and killing Flores in his Lima hotel room in May 2010.
He remains the main suspect in the disappearance of Mountain Brook teen Natalee Holloway. She has not been seen since 2005.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
FOX announces re-air time for House
FOX6 has been granted permission to re-air Monday, April 11's episode of House.
It was missed due to weather coverage. Here's when it will air:
Saturday, April 16, 2011
2:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
It was missed due to weather coverage. Here's when it will air:
Saturday, April 16, 2011
2:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Police warn of spring burglaries
Birmingham police are warning people to lock up and be on high alert as the temperatures continue to rise. Officers report home and car robberies always increase in the spring and summer.
Officers said in warmer weather, people are more likely to leave doors and windows open and go on vacation, and that provides an opportunity for criminals to strike. They recommend people be aware of their surroundings and contact police if they see anything suspicious.
"Just use common sense," said De'Voris Ragland, a Crime Prevention Officer for the Birmingham Police Department. "Find a neighbor you can trust and have that neighbor look out for you if you are going to be working during day."
Ragland said neighborhood watch groups are also an effective crime fighting tool. Birmingham residents agreed now is a good time to brush up on their safety plan.
"Basically what I do is double check everything to make sure it is locked and secure," said Erma White. "and invest in a security system."
"I'm vigilant in making sure all the doors are locked," said James Bristow, "I'm second guessing myself all the time, and asking 'did I lock the door?'"
Police say can happen in homes or apartments, or during the day or night so everyone should do what they can to stay safe.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Officers said in warmer weather, people are more likely to leave doors and windows open and go on vacation, and that provides an opportunity for criminals to strike. They recommend people be aware of their surroundings and contact police if they see anything suspicious.
"Just use common sense," said De'Voris Ragland, a Crime Prevention Officer for the Birmingham Police Department. "Find a neighbor you can trust and have that neighbor look out for you if you are going to be working during day."
Ragland said neighborhood watch groups are also an effective crime fighting tool. Birmingham residents agreed now is a good time to brush up on their safety plan.
"Basically what I do is double check everything to make sure it is locked and secure," said Erma White. "and invest in a security system."
"I'm vigilant in making sure all the doors are locked," said James Bristow, "I'm second guessing myself all the time, and asking 'did I lock the door?'"
Police say can happen in homes or apartments, or during the day or night so everyone should do what they can to stay safe.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Tar balls still washing up on AL beaches
Nearly a year after the BP oil spill, tar balls are still washing up on Alabama beaches.
The mayor of Gulf Shores says workers have picked up 9,600 pounds of Tarballs just in the last two weeks.
Gulf Coast leaders are trying to reach an agreement with BP for beach maintenance through the spring and summer.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The mayor of Gulf Shores says workers have picked up 9,600 pounds of Tarballs just in the last two weeks.
Gulf Coast leaders are trying to reach an agreement with BP for beach maintenance through the spring and summer.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Twin brothers killed in early morning blaze
Birmingham fire crews have confirmed that two brothers were killed during a triple house fire in north Birmingham on Friday morning. The houses were all next to each other in the 3100 block of 25th Street North. The call went out just after 4:00 a.m.
One woman says the fire response was so delayed that her husband had to drive to the fire department to get help.
“I’m very upset because I called the fire department several times. They’re just right down the street. It shouldn’t have taken them 30 to 45 minutes to get here,” said Melodie Smith. “If they had come the first time I called them, at 3:55, all this wouldn’t have been done.”
Firefighters have not said what caused the fire.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
One woman says the fire response was so delayed that her husband had to drive to the fire department to get help.
“I’m very upset because I called the fire department several times. They’re just right down the street. It shouldn’t have taken them 30 to 45 minutes to get here,” said Melodie Smith. “If they had come the first time I called them, at 3:55, all this wouldn’t have been done.”
Firefighters have not said what caused the fire.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Suspect named in Bessemer murder
A man is charged in a murder in Bessemer.
Police say David James Manning, Jr. shot and killed 45-year-old James Lewis on 6th Avenue North. It happened Tuesday night.
Manning is being held on bond.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Police say David James Manning, Jr. shot and killed 45-year-old James Lewis on 6th Avenue North. It happened Tuesday night.
Manning is being held on bond.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Controlled burns to be held in Talladega National Forest
Folks living near the Talladega National Forest can expect to occasionally see and smell smoke.
The forest service plans to burn 28,000 acres this year in a series of controlled burns.
On Thursday, they did a burn near Sylacauga on Highway 148.
The controlled burns are an effort to remove dead brush that can lead to big uncontrolled forest fires.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The forest service plans to burn 28,000 acres this year in a series of controlled burns.
On Thursday, they did a burn near Sylacauga on Highway 148.
The controlled burns are an effort to remove dead brush that can lead to big uncontrolled forest fires.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
PACT members worried over new legislation
Today is the annual higher education day at the Alabama Statehouse. Hundreds of college students will make the trip to Montgomery.
Top on their list of issues is the rising cost of a college education.
Those working with Alabama’s Pre-paid College Tuition program say it is once again in jeopardy.
The trouble stems from a push to get rid of a cap that has been put in place to keep state colleges from increasing tuition more than 2.5% a year.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Top on their list of issues is the rising cost of a college education.
Those working with Alabama’s Pre-paid College Tuition program say it is once again in jeopardy.
The trouble stems from a push to get rid of a cap that has been put in place to keep state colleges from increasing tuition more than 2.5% a year.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Police release details of teen’s killing
The Birmingham Police Department has released details of a fatal shooting that took place two weeks ago.
The homicide took place on March 26th around 10:30 p.m. at #2 41st Street South. Officers responded to a report of shots fired to find 17-year-old Willie Burch in the street, suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest.
Birmingham Fire and Rescue responded and transported Burch to UAB Hospital for treatment. Burch was pronounced deceased April 7th, a week and a half later.
A second victim was also injured in the shooting, but is expected to recover from his injury.
Investigators say the deceased had just exited a teen club at the incident location. Witnesses have reported a red Chevrolet Monte Carlo and a square-bodied Buick leaving the scene after the shooting.
No arrests have been made in the case, so far. 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.
The homicide took place on March 26th around 10:30 p.m. at #2 41st Street South. Officers responded to a report of shots fired to find 17-year-old Willie Burch in the street, suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest.
Birmingham Fire and Rescue responded and transported Burch to UAB Hospital for treatment. Burch was pronounced deceased April 7th, a week and a half later.
A second victim was also injured in the shooting, but is expected to recover from his injury.
Investigators say the deceased had just exited a teen club at the incident location. Witnesses have reported a red Chevrolet Monte Carlo and a square-bodied Buick leaving the scene after the shooting.
No arrests have been made in the case, so far. 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.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
New Westin Hotel to be LEED certified
Developers say the new downtown Westin Hotel in Birmingham will be one of the first “LEED Certified” hotels in the state.
“LEED” stands for leadership in energy and environmental design.
Developers showed off their designs for the Westin and the entertainment marketplace to Mayor Bell on Wednesday.
The Westin will be able to use power from the existing Sheraton to heat and cool the new hotel and it will share amenities like meeting space.
"This will be, in essence, a thousand room hotel component combined with the marketplace that we feel is really going to complete the BJCC as an effective destination entertainment district," said architect Joe Raybun.
The Westin and the marketplace are expected to open in the next 18 to 24 months.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
“LEED” stands for leadership in energy and environmental design.
Developers showed off their designs for the Westin and the entertainment marketplace to Mayor Bell on Wednesday.
The Westin will be able to use power from the existing Sheraton to heat and cool the new hotel and it will share amenities like meeting space.
"This will be, in essence, a thousand room hotel component combined with the marketplace that we feel is really going to complete the BJCC as an effective destination entertainment district," said architect Joe Raybun.
The Westin and the marketplace are expected to open in the next 18 to 24 months.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Police investigating overnight homicide
The Birmingham Police Department reports that they are investigating a new homicide on Wednesday morning.
26-year-old Tony Neely was found suffering from a gunshot wound in the parking lot of an apartment complex in the 300 block of 3rd Avenue Southwest around 11:30 on Tuesday night. Officers called in Birmingham Fire and Rescue who pronounced Neely deceased on the scene.
No arrests have been made in the case. If there is anyone who has information pertaining to this case, they are encouraged to contact the Birmingham Police Department @ 254-1764 or Crime Stoppers @ 254-7777.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
26-year-old Tony Neely was found suffering from a gunshot wound in the parking lot of an apartment complex in the 300 block of 3rd Avenue Southwest around 11:30 on Tuesday night. Officers called in Birmingham Fire and Rescue who pronounced Neely deceased on the scene.
No arrests have been made in the case. If there is anyone who has information pertaining to this case, they are encouraged to contact the Birmingham Police Department @ 254-1764 or Crime Stoppers @ 254-7777.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Verbena students head back to class
Things are back to normal on Wednesday morning after an uprising at an Alabama prison.
Inmates briefly took control of one section inside Holman Prison near Atmore on Tuesday.
Officers brought out their riot gear to get the inmates under control.
Holman is best known as the prison where the state conducts executions.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Inmates briefly took control of one section inside Holman Prison near Atmore on Tuesday.
Officers brought out their riot gear to get the inmates under control.
Holman is best known as the prison where the state conducts executions.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Jeffco Commission proposes courthouse closings, 4 day work weeks
The Jefferson County Commission is considering money saving measures to help the county through the lean times.
On Tuesday morning in committee, commissioners discussed closing all four satellite court houses and cutting the work week down to four days. A four-day work week will save the county $7 million this year and $21 million for a full year. Commissioner George Bowman asked to exempt Cooper Green Hospital and the county nursing home from the four-day work week. Bowman says it will cost more to go to outside contracts to make up the difference.
The plan for the Birmingham and Bessemer courthouses will be for them to remain open 5 days a week. Employees at those locations will be under the four-day work week, they will just have staggered schedules.
Commissioners are asking the Jefferson County delegation for homerule so they can raise local taxes other than the sales tax and try to make up for the loss of the occupational tax.
The commission plans to vote on the cost-saving proposals next week.
On Tuesday morning in committee, commissioners discussed closing all four satellite court houses and cutting the work week down to four days. A four-day work week will save the county $7 million this year and $21 million for a full year. Commissioner George Bowman asked to exempt Cooper Green Hospital and the county nursing home from the four-day work week. Bowman says it will cost more to go to outside contracts to make up the difference.
The plan for the Birmingham and Bessemer courthouses will be for them to remain open 5 days a week. Employees at those locations will be under the four-day work week, they will just have staggered schedules.
Commissioners are asking the Jefferson County delegation for homerule so they can raise local taxes other than the sales tax and try to make up for the loss of the occupational tax.
The commission plans to vote on the cost-saving proposals next week.
Evening storms cause damage across central Alabama
Strong storms moved through Alabama during the late afternoon and night on Monday. There were no reports of any tornados, but the metro area did see some damage.
A family in Hueytown has some work ahead of them when a tree came down on their house on Willow Drive. The tree destroyed the house’s kitchen and living room as well as three cars. The scariest part of the incident for the family was that their 90-year-old grandmother was lying on the couch at the time. She received only minor injuries. The family says they are insured and they will begin cleanup in the morning.
Reports came in from Etowah County that a barn’s roof had been removed by high winds in Walnut Grove.
A tree was reported down in Guin on 11th Avenue.
In Sylacauga, a tree was reported to have fallen on a house on Spring Street.
In Huntsville, the heavy wind knocked down trees and ripped shingles off of roofs. More than one inch of rain fell.
In Tennessee, a funnel cloud was spotted a few miles from downtown Nashville. The area was also hit with strong wind and torrential rain. No injuries were reported, but thousands are without power this morning.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
A family in Hueytown has some work ahead of them when a tree came down on their house on Willow Drive. The tree destroyed the house’s kitchen and living room as well as three cars. The scariest part of the incident for the family was that their 90-year-old grandmother was lying on the couch at the time. She received only minor injuries. The family says they are insured and they will begin cleanup in the morning.
Reports came in from Etowah County that a barn’s roof had been removed by high winds in Walnut Grove.
A tree was reported down in Guin on 11th Avenue.
In Sylacauga, a tree was reported to have fallen on a house on Spring Street.
In Huntsville, the heavy wind knocked down trees and ripped shingles off of roofs. More than one inch of rain fell.
In Tennessee, a funnel cloud was spotted a few miles from downtown Nashville. The area was also hit with strong wind and torrential rain. No injuries were reported, but thousands are without power this morning.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Trussville follows through with plan to block thrift store
The Trussville City Council plans to make another move to block a thrift store from opening.
On Monday night, the city council approved a purchase agreement for $5.6 million to buy the shopping center where "America’s Thrift Store" wanted to open. The city will also have to buyout the lease for the thrift store.
City leaders say the thrift store did not fit Trussville’s master plan for downtown.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
On Monday night, the city council approved a purchase agreement for $5.6 million to buy the shopping center where "America’s Thrift Store" wanted to open. The city will also have to buyout the lease for the thrift store.
City leaders say the thrift store did not fit Trussville’s master plan for downtown.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Couple pleads 'guilty' to 4-year-old's death
A Birmingham mother and stepfather have pleaded guilty in the death of a four-year-old child.
Marcus and Quanisha Smith had been charged with capital murder after Evan Byrdsong died in 2009. A coroner's report said the boy died from abuse and neglect.
Their capital murder trial was supposed to start Monday morning, but both accepted a plea deal to avoid a possible death sentence.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Marcus and Quanisha Smith had been charged with capital murder after Evan Byrdsong died in 2009. A coroner's report said the boy died from abuse and neglect.
Their capital murder trial was supposed to start Monday morning, but both accepted a plea deal to avoid a possible death sentence.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Mayor reconsiders plans for ice rink
Pelham's mayor has backed off a controversial proposal to bring a firefighter museum to the Civic Complex.
At Monday's city council meeting, Mayor Don Murphy pulled the item off the agenda. And instead, he asked for opponents to work with him to find a compromise. He said the change in heart occurred after he received hundreds of calls and emails from angry residents.
"I'm reaching out to you," said Mayor Murphy. "I tried to talk to some of you and you didn't want to talk. You didn't want to listen. I'm here to work with you if we can."
He originally proposed putting the museum in the main arena at the complex, and leaving the practice rink. He said the facility has been losing about $950,000 a year for the last 13 years. A museum would bring in revenue. However, he is willing to listen to all ideas.
Opponents have argued that losing one of the two ice rinks in the facility would complicate scheduling, and force the University of Alabama hockey team out of the facility. They said the change would impact hundreds of hockey and ice skaters who rely on the facility for practice time.
"It doesn't help us at all," said University of Alabama hockey player Kory Sweatt. "It would be hard to move program, we have a great fan base here."
"It's about the kids," said hockey coach Todd Chamberlain, "We think the right decision to keep complex as is."
Mayor Murphy has encouraged anyone with ideas and suggestions to call or email him. He is hoping to set up a committee to find the best way to deal with the situation, and is hoping to devise a plan quickly.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
At Monday's city council meeting, Mayor Don Murphy pulled the item off the agenda. And instead, he asked for opponents to work with him to find a compromise. He said the change in heart occurred after he received hundreds of calls and emails from angry residents.
"I'm reaching out to you," said Mayor Murphy. "I tried to talk to some of you and you didn't want to talk. You didn't want to listen. I'm here to work with you if we can."
He originally proposed putting the museum in the main arena at the complex, and leaving the practice rink. He said the facility has been losing about $950,000 a year for the last 13 years. A museum would bring in revenue. However, he is willing to listen to all ideas.
Opponents have argued that losing one of the two ice rinks in the facility would complicate scheduling, and force the University of Alabama hockey team out of the facility. They said the change would impact hundreds of hockey and ice skaters who rely on the facility for practice time.
"It doesn't help us at all," said University of Alabama hockey player Kory Sweatt. "It would be hard to move program, we have a great fan base here."
"It's about the kids," said hockey coach Todd Chamberlain, "We think the right decision to keep complex as is."
Mayor Murphy has encouraged anyone with ideas and suggestions to call or email him. He is hoping to set up a committee to find the best way to deal with the situation, and is hoping to devise a plan quickly.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
McMillan acquitted of bad check charges
A City Stages founder has been acquitted.
George McMillan was charged with writing more than $250,000 worth of bad checks to vendors and acts during the last festival in 2009. He had signed the checks in question, along with the festival's executive director.
Because prosecutors never charged the executive director, Judge Shanta Owens says she could not find McMillian criminally liable either.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
George McMillan was charged with writing more than $250,000 worth of bad checks to vendors and acts during the last festival in 2009. He had signed the checks in question, along with the festival's executive director.
Because prosecutors never charged the executive director, Judge Shanta Owens says she could not find McMillian criminally liable either.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Former Jeffco commissioner faces deadline on medical appeal
The deadline looms for former Jefferson County Commissioner Chris McNair to turn over his medical records to the court system. It is his last plea to stay out of jail.
On Monday, McNair must submit medical papers to support his claims of being too ill to serve his sentence. He has already been granted a one-week extension to wait on test results and to gather necessary records.
McNair is 85-years-old and his health is declining.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
On Monday, McNair must submit medical papers to support his claims of being too ill to serve his sentence. He has already been granted a one-week extension to wait on test results and to gather necessary records.
McNair is 85-years-old and his health is declining.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Union workers to rally at Linn Park
Public and private sector union workers are set to rally for workers rights at Birmingham’s Linn Park on Monday. The rally starts at 5:00 p.m.
Organizers say they are rallying to protect public services and private sector jobs.
The rally comes on the 43rd anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. King spent his final days in Memphis, supporting sanitation workers who were on strike.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Organizers say they are rallying to protect public services and private sector jobs.
The rally comes on the 43rd anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. King spent his final days in Memphis, supporting sanitation workers who were on strike.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Educators and students prepare for Higher Education Day
A couple thousand students, teachers, and school administrators from Alabama’s higher education institutions are making plans to travel to Montgomery this week.
The annual Higher Education Day is an opportunity to push for more funding for public universities and schools.
This year's events are scheduled for Thursday.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The annual Higher Education Day is an opportunity to push for more funding for public universities and schools.
This year's events are scheduled for Thursday.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Trial resumes for City Stages co-founder
The trial for a city stages founder accused of writing bad checks resumes Monday morning.
On Friday, prosecutors say George McMillan wrote checks for the festival totaling $259,000. They say the festival did not have the cash to back them up.
The checks were written to vendors and performers.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
On Friday, prosecutors say George McMillan wrote checks for the festival totaling $259,000. They say the festival did not have the cash to back them up.
The checks were written to vendors and performers.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Deadline approaching for e-bingo case prosecutors
Monday marks the deadline for prosecutors in the bingo vote-buying corruption case.
The Department of Justice has to prove to a judge they supplied all possible evidence over to the defense.
Attorneys for the ten defendants want the charges against them thrown out.
Sanctions could also be on tap for some of the federal prosecutors if the deadline is not met.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The Department of Justice has to prove to a judge they supplied all possible evidence over to the defense.
Attorneys for the ten defendants want the charges against them thrown out.
Sanctions could also be on tap for some of the federal prosecutors if the deadline is not met.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Another Fairfield e-bingo facility reopens
A Fairfield e-bingo facility is expected to re-open on Monday.
Customers were disappointed to find "Mister T's Lucky 7 Charity Bingo" remained closed Friday.
The owner says he had to complete some additional paperwork required by the city before he would be allowed to open.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Customers were disappointed to find "Mister T's Lucky 7 Charity Bingo" remained closed Friday.
The owner says he had to complete some additional paperwork required by the city before he would be allowed to open.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
New power rates could promote job growth
The state's Utility Regulatory Board plans to approve new Alabama Power rates Tuesday, giving a price break to businesses if they help the state create more jobs.
Public Service Commission members said it will complement business tax breaks being considered by the legislature.
Officials also hope it will lower Alabama’s unemployment rate by providing one more incentive for business growth.
The plan offers price breaks for businesses if they open new locations or undergo major expansions. Some of the price breaks are temporary.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Public Service Commission members said it will complement business tax breaks being considered by the legislature.
Officials also hope it will lower Alabama’s unemployment rate by providing one more incentive for business growth.
The plan offers price breaks for businesses if they open new locations or undergo major expansions. Some of the price breaks are temporary.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Jeffco Commissioners hoping to raise local taxes
The Jefferson County Commission wants the authority to raise taxes to deal with its financial crisis.
The commission is urging passage of a bill in Montgomery that would give it authority limited home rule. The bill would allow commissioners to raise local taxes to bring in enough revenue to prevent massive layoffs in the wake of losing the county's occupational tax.
Right now, the commission can only raise the sales tax on its own and needs permission from Montgomery to do anything else tax-wise.
Commission President David Carrington says the county has to come up with at least $50 million in new revenue to replace the $75 million it lost when a judge declared the occupational tax unconstitutional. He says the county is asking to take responsibility for itself.
“We're basically saying let the buck stop with the commission,” said Carrington. “We'll have to face the voters 4 years from now. We need to take the finances of Jefferson County outside of the political process in Montgomery.”
Carrington says he has gotten good response from legislators on both sides of the aisle. He says the legislature will adjourn in May, but without help, the county's crisis will not be over.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The commission is urging passage of a bill in Montgomery that would give it authority limited home rule. The bill would allow commissioners to raise local taxes to bring in enough revenue to prevent massive layoffs in the wake of losing the county's occupational tax.
Right now, the commission can only raise the sales tax on its own and needs permission from Montgomery to do anything else tax-wise.
Commission President David Carrington says the county has to come up with at least $50 million in new revenue to replace the $75 million it lost when a judge declared the occupational tax unconstitutional. He says the county is asking to take responsibility for itself.
“We're basically saying let the buck stop with the commission,” said Carrington. “We'll have to face the voters 4 years from now. We need to take the finances of Jefferson County outside of the political process in Montgomery.”
Carrington says he has gotten good response from legislators on both sides of the aisle. He says the legislature will adjourn in May, but without help, the county's crisis will not be over.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Anti-abortion rally shows support for new bills
More than 100 people are showed their support for a series of bills that would restrict abortions in Alabama.
First Lady Diane Bentley was among the people who attended Thursday’s rally in Montgomery. She encouraged women who are thinking about abortions to put their children up for adoption.
Others who came had a similar message.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
First Lady Diane Bentley was among the people who attended Thursday’s rally in Montgomery. She encouraged women who are thinking about abortions to put their children up for adoption.
Others who came had a similar message.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Deputy discovers suspicious device in Cherokee County
The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office says that a suspicious device was discovered by a deputy on Wednesday.
The deputy was fueling his vehicle at the Russell Oil Company facility on Chestnut Bypass when he noticed the device. He alerted authorities and the area was evacuated.
Through x-rays, the bomb squad was able to determine that the device was an inert military training device.
Sheriff Jeff Shaver says the device had been discarded near a storage facility and before being found by a property owner.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
The deputy was fueling his vehicle at the Russell Oil Company facility on Chestnut Bypass when he noticed the device. He alerted authorities and the area was evacuated.
Through x-rays, the bomb squad was able to determine that the device was an inert military training device.
Sheriff Jeff Shaver says the device had been discarded near a storage facility and before being found by a property owner.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Former City Stages official heads to court
The man who helped bring City Stages to Birmingham goes on trial Friday.
George McMillan faces charges over bad checks prosecutors say he signed before the 2009 festival. Performers and vendors say they received checks that bounced.
The three day music festival ended in 2009.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
George McMillan faces charges over bad checks prosecutors say he signed before the 2009 festival. Performers and vendors say they received checks that bounced.
The three day music festival ended in 2009.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
William Glen Boyd executed
The man convicted of killing a Calhoun County couple has been executed.
William Glen Boyd was put to death by lethal injection in Atmore on Thursday night. He had no last words.
Boyd was convicted of kidnapping and killing Fred and Evelyn Blackmon in 1986.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
William Glen Boyd was put to death by lethal injection in Atmore on Thursday night. He had no last words.
Boyd was convicted of kidnapping and killing Fred and Evelyn Blackmon in 1986.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Skin care on a dime
Some nourish. Some knock out the wrinkles. Others soothe the sensitive or relieve the dry. Head into a drug store and you will find row after row of choices to help take care of your skin.
Some dermatologists say there is not much difference between the active ingredients found in expensive skin care products and those found in drug stores. But with so many options it can be hard to decide what's best for your skin without a little help.
That is where Birmingham dermatologist Dr. Stacy Haynes comes in. She says there are three brands that top her list, starting with Neutrogena.
“Neutrogena tends to do really well because of the quality of it,” Dr. Haynes said. “It's light. It's sheer. It goes on very well it's smooth.”
Haynes recommends Neutrogena’s Fresh Foaming Cleanser and Healthy Skin Face Lotion.
“They have a sunscreen already built in it,” Dr. Haynes said. “You can get a 12 or a SPF of 15 which is what we all need.”
Haynes says this Neutrogena usually works best for people with normal skin types. For those with more sensitivity and dryness she suggests Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser and Moisturizing Cream. Dr. Haynes says the cleanser doesn’t lather like normal soap but still has cleaning powers.
For people looking for some anti-wrinkle solutions Dr. Hayne suggests Oil Of Olay.
“Especially the Regenerist,” she said. “In our office we offer a lot of pentapeptides. They get in the skin and plump up the skin. Guess what the Regenerist has in it? Pentapeptides!”
While many of the active ingredients in expensive products match those found on drugstore shelves, Dr. Haynes says there is a good reason why you must pay more for certain brands found in other stores.
“The moisturizers tend to be very soothing and creamy,” Dr Haynes said. “Even though the active ingredients are the same it's the inactive ingredients that they bump up so maybe a higher strength of sunscreen. So that's what you're paying for the packaging the color the fragrance.”
Dr. Haynes says another benefit of purchasing skin care products at drug stores is the option of buying generic and store brands. She says those will also usually have similar active ingredient but again may have less extras when it comes to inactive ingredients.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
Some dermatologists say there is not much difference between the active ingredients found in expensive skin care products and those found in drug stores. But with so many options it can be hard to decide what's best for your skin without a little help.
That is where Birmingham dermatologist Dr. Stacy Haynes comes in. She says there are three brands that top her list, starting with Neutrogena.
“Neutrogena tends to do really well because of the quality of it,” Dr. Haynes said. “It's light. It's sheer. It goes on very well it's smooth.”
Haynes recommends Neutrogena’s Fresh Foaming Cleanser and Healthy Skin Face Lotion.
“They have a sunscreen already built in it,” Dr. Haynes said. “You can get a 12 or a SPF of 15 which is what we all need.”
Haynes says this Neutrogena usually works best for people with normal skin types. For those with more sensitivity and dryness she suggests Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser and Moisturizing Cream. Dr. Haynes says the cleanser doesn’t lather like normal soap but still has cleaning powers.
For people looking for some anti-wrinkle solutions Dr. Hayne suggests Oil Of Olay.
“Especially the Regenerist,” she said. “In our office we offer a lot of pentapeptides. They get in the skin and plump up the skin. Guess what the Regenerist has in it? Pentapeptides!”
While many of the active ingredients in expensive products match those found on drugstore shelves, Dr. Haynes says there is a good reason why you must pay more for certain brands found in other stores.
“The moisturizers tend to be very soothing and creamy,” Dr Haynes said. “Even though the active ingredients are the same it's the inactive ingredients that they bump up so maybe a higher strength of sunscreen. So that's what you're paying for the packaging the color the fragrance.”
Dr. Haynes says another benefit of purchasing skin care products at drug stores is the option of buying generic and store brands. She says those will also usually have similar active ingredient but again may have less extras when it comes to inactive ingredients.
Copyright 2011 WBRC. All rights reserved.
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