Arab considers sex offender ban in parks

Arab may ban registered sex offenders from it's parks. Mayor Gary Beam brought the idea to city council last week after learning the town of Hanceville in Cullman County has a similar ordinance. Some council members don't know whether that would be enforcable. The measure is currently under review. The council may consider taking a vote on the proposal when they meet again on April 5th.

Boaz will discuss zoning plans

Boaz Planning Commission members will hold public hearings to determine the zoning recommendations for four parcels of recently annexed properties. If you have an opinion about what sort of developments should go there, you're invited to a hearing Tuesday at 6 p.m. in the Boaz Public Library.

Hit and run driver faces charges

43-year-old Krystal Johnson of Arab is facing charges of assault first degree, for leaving the scene of an accident Monday. That's a felony charge. She also faces possession of methamphetamine charges. 62-year-old Larry Gobble was flown to Huntsville Hospital after his truck collided with a Jeep driven by Johnson. Johnson left the scene, and later told police she had used drugs and alcohol on Monday before the accident. Henry says meth was found in her purse while being booked into the city jail.

Allegations surface about Auburn football program

Four former Auburn players told HBO in taped interviews that they received money from boosters. One of the players said in an interview that he had received sexual favors and money to buy a car.
Former AU football player, Stanley McClover, says during the recruiting process he received $500 in a handshake from LSU, sexual favors while visiting Ohio State and cash in a book bag from Auburn. Tommy Tuberville was coach at the time. Auburn released a statement saying they respectfully decline to comment, and compliance is a major emphasis for all athletic programs.

Arab woman gives drugs to a child

An Arab woman has pleaded guilty to giving drugs to a child. 21-year-old Robin Leigh Barnett pleaded guilty to drug distribution charges after giving a 13-year-old Xanax, Methadone, and Marijuana during a six month time span starting in late 2009. Arab Police say it was discovered after the girl was caught at school with the drugs. Sentencing is set for May.

Honda expands in Alabama

Honda has announced they'll invest $94 million in the auto plant in Lincoln, and add 20 jobs. The Talladega County Commission just approved tax abatements, and the project should be completed in mid-2012. Company spokesman Mark Morrison said the $94 million investment will increase production capacity and improve the flexibility of vehicle and engine manufacturing. Honda currently employs more than 4,000 people at its Lincoln plant.

Education rally draws attention in Gadsden

Rallies in support of public education have been popping up all over the country, and Gadsden joined the movement Monday with 200 or 300 showing up to voice their opinion. Most of the crowd appeared to be educators or education support personnel, and Alabama Education Association President Anita Gibson spoke. Sen. Phil Williams of Rainbow City also attended, and said his No. 1 priority is keeping people employed. Rep. Craig Ford of Gadsden, told the crowd he's opposed to increasing the cost of health insurance for teachers, and he doesn't want to increase class size limits. He also expects the end of the DROP program to be challenged in court.

Investigation continues in DeKalb County shooting

Dekalb County authorities are still investigating a traffic accident where a man was found shot Monday in Fort Payne. The driver was alone in the vehicle and had an apparent gunshot wound in the arm, according to a press release, and had been shot before the accident occurred. The investigation is ongoing.

Child custody affected by new bill

Alabama lawmakers are considering a controversial bill that could change the way custody arrangements are handled in divorce cases. Judges determine custody in the best interest of the child now. This bill would give equal custody and rights to divorcing parents. Some say judges are doing a fine job of making the decisions now. Others, including family rights advocates, say children need access to both parents equally. Nothing has been finalized, and lawmakers are continuing discussions.

Police capture robbery suspect

28-year-old Tonya Marie Bynum, of Boaz, has been charged with first-degree kidnapping and robbery. This relates to the case we reported to you, when a woman approached a man March 20 in the parking lot of La Popular on Sand Mountain Drive, and asked him for money. He refused, and Bynum, along with another man forced the victim into his own car and made him drive about six blocks to a dead-end street. They took his money and ran. Investigators are still searching for the male suspect. Bynum is currently housed in the Marshall County Jail under a $50,000 bond.

School representatives honored by Chamber

The Citizen of the Year award was handed out Friday night by the Albertville Chamber of Commerce. That award went to Albertville City Schools superintendent Ric Ayer. One of the things that contributed to his getting the award, was his response after last spring's tornado. The school suffered damage, yet Ayer had a positive attitude as he worked to get the kids back in class. Albertville Primary School art teacher Ramona Hall was given the Educator of the Year award for her contibutions to the creative side of students, and her involvement with the art education program.

Alabama a top ten state in terms of disaster risk

The list of the Top 10 states most at risk of disaster has been released by Kiplinger.com, and Alabama ranks #7. Louisiana, Florida, and Texas are among the states that rank higher for the number of tornadoes and the hurricane risk. The report includes data from insurance claims and weather occurrences. Alabama ranks high for the risk of Gulf Coast hurricanes, plus tornadoes and hail. In the past decade, the estimated insured property loss has been at $4.9 billion in Alabama.

Gadsden State offers free HIV testing

The Gadsden State Community College Counseling and Advising Center is sponsoring HIV/AIDS Awareness Day March 30. Free testing will be provided that day by the Health Services Center. The event will be held from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. in the Cardinal Breezeway located in Inzer Hall on the Wallace Drive Campus. The public is invited.

Etowah County could see fallout from detainee withdrawl

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement says it plans to remove detainees from the Etowah County Detention Center June 30, and Sheriff Todd Entrekin says that will be a devastating blow to the budget. The Gadsden Times reports 50 people will be laid off and cuts will be made to all programs, including substance abuse, and all outside work details at community centers. The loss of those 350 detainees would cut the jail population in half. A congressional delegation, including Robert Aderholt and Sens. Richard Shelby and Jeff Sessions, are working to secure an extension of the agreement with ICE. They pay $41 a day per inmate in Etowah County, and $160 to $200 per day at some private prisons in the northeast. One of the reasons they would take detainees from Etowah County is to move them closer to Atlanta.

Felons must register or be arrested

58-year old Larry Carl Walcott was arrested last week for failing to register as a convicted felon. Anyone convicted of two or more felonies must register with the Marshall County sheriff's office, and deputies said Walcott refused and they were left with no choice but to arrest him. The sheriff's office is investigating cases now of other convicted felons who have not registered, and they're giving those folks the chance to come forward before they go looking to make arrests. It's a law that has been in place for several years, and the sheriff's office is just doing a compliance check now.

Burn permits available in Albertville

If you're inside the city limits of Albertville, you need a permit before burning debris. All you have to do is call the fire department and tell them your intentions, when and where you plan to burn. As long as the conditions are okay and you're responsible, the permit should be no problem. The fire department will give you a list of things you're not allowed to burn like tires, shingles or insulated wire or any other plastic, rubber, petroleum and synthetic materials that could harm the environment. Piles have to be 50 feet away from structures and roadways.

To get a burn permit, residents can call 256-891-8230.

Boaz hiring

Boaz City Council will hire part-time employees for the summer during their meeting tonight. That's about 30 temporary workers. The meeting is tonight at the Boaz Senior Center at 6pm.

Block Grant program faces cuts

The Community Development Block Grant program in Gadsden is facing cuts. Funds from the program are spent to assist low- and moderate-income families, to prevent blight or slum areas or meet other critical community needs. Director of Planning Nick Hall told members of the council’s Community Development Committee he’s projecting a cut of 7.5 percent to 10 percent this year, but he's heard numbers as high as 60 percent. Gadsden expects to receive $1.13 million for block grants.

Aderholt visits Drug Enforcement Unit

Rep. Robert Aderholt paid a visit this week to the Etowah County Drug Enforcement Unit, which has been open less than a year. Aderholt saw confiscated drugs up close, and Gadsden Police Chief Richard Crouch said since Aderholt has been committed to drug enforcement in Etowah County, it was helpful for him to see what he has helped accomplish. Of top concern is still the meth problem, and meth lab cleanup. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency has stopped the clean-up of meth labs because of funding issues, putting a strain on local governments to pay for the costs.

Marshall County Attorney sentenced

55-year old Lawton Dale Fuller, a disbarred Marshall County attorney accused of stealing more than 90,000 dollars from clients, pleaded guilty to possession of a forged instrument charge this week. Fuller was sentenced to five years probation and a five year suspended jail sentence.
Fuller's law practice was closed in July 2009. Fuller was also ordered to pay more than 90,000 dollars in restitution.

Snead State files appeal

Snead State Community College has filed an official appeal to the NJCAA, asking for the probation on the men’s and women’s basketball program to be reconsidered. Probation disqualified the teams from postseason play and required the forfeiture of their wins for the current season. The 2011-2012 school year will also be a probationary year. The college failed to submit their eligibility form correctly for an entire season. The college admits the mistake, but thinks the punishment is too harsh. In his formal appeal, Snead State President Dr. Robert Exley emphasized that the athletic program has never before had an NJCAA violation and has corrected the problem. The appeal was filed Wednesday.

Investigation continues into Monday's shooting

Two officers are on paid administrative leave while Albertville police investigate Monday night's shooting that left a man dead. Assistant Police Chief Major Jamie Smith says the shooting appears justifiable. As officers investigate a domestic disturbance, a man fled in a pickup and took officers on a three mile chase and the officers shot the suspect as the chase ended on Walnut Street. This is the only time Albertivlle officers have used deadly force. Smith says there have been times when they've shot out tires, and they have drawn weapons on suspects in the past. Names in this case have not been released pending the investigation by the Alabama Bureau of Investigation.

Jacksonvill man killed in motorcycle wreck

A Jacksonville man was on his way to work in Gadsden when he was killed Wednesday morning in an accident in Glencoe. 52-year old Kenneth Wayne Alldredge was headed north on US Highway 431 on a motorcycle when a pickup pulled out from Keysburg Road and hit the motorcycle on the side. He was wearing a helmet and was thrown from the motorcycle. Etowah County Coroner Michael Gladden, said he died instantly. Alldredge was on his way to work at Alabama Power’s Gadsden steam plant.

Free HIV testing next week

The Gadsden State Community College Counseling and Advising Center is sponsoring HIV/AIDS Awareness Day March 30. Free testing will be provided that day by the Health Services Center. The event will be held from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. in the Cardinal Breezeway located in Inzer Hall on the Wallace Drive Campus. The public is invited.

Legislature drops retirement program

The Alabama Legislature voted this week to end a program that allowed many experienced state employees and teachers to be rewarded for putting off retirement. The deferred retirement program was created in 2001 by the Legislature as a way to prevent experienced teachers from retiring and then going to another state to teach. But opponents said it was too expensive and that the top recipients were lobbyists, coaches and high-salaried state employees. The House and Senate have approved, so the bill now goes to Gov. Robert Bentley, who is expected to sign it.

One step closer to photo ID at the polls

The State House has approved a bill that would require voters to show photo ID at the polls. Alabama voters for years have been required to show identification at the polls, but many forms of non-photo IDs are allowed, such as a utility bill, a bank statement that shows a voter's name and address, a Social Security card or a certified copy of a birth certificate. Representative Kerry Rich of Albertville sponosored the bill and says this is a way to crack down on voter fraud. The bill now moves on to the Senate for debate.

Local man is a "driver of the year"

For the 38th consecutive year, Ryder is recognizing good drivers. The truck rental company is presenting its annual “Driver of the Year” awards to three professionals, including Coy Bean of Rainbow City. Bean drives for Ryder’s Honda Transportation account based in Rainbow City, and he has driven 1.75 million collision- and violation-free miles during his 20 years with Ryder. Bean was honored recently at a ceremony in Miami.

Bodies found, murder-suicide likely

Two bodies were found around midday yesterday, and the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the case as a murder-suicide. According to a news release from Sheriff Jimmy Harris, deputies received a call that a male and female were found dead inside their home on DeKalb County Road 657, off Horton Road south of Rainsville. The victims’ names are being withheld until family is notified. Their bodies have been sent to Huntsville for an autopsies by the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences. Harris said the investigation is ongoing.

Police looking for information on robbery

Albertville police are looking for your help, after they say a man was abducted and robbed Sunday evening. A man said he was leaving La Popular on Sand Mountain Drive when he was approached by a woman who asked him for money. He told her he had no money, but a man approached him and forced the victim into his own car at gunpoint. They made the man drive about six blocks to a dead-end street where they took cash from him, then got out and ran. The man is described as white, about 5 feet 7 inches with brown hair. The woman is white with blonde hair.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Albertville Police Department.

256-891-8274

Jail employee accused of robbing inmate

A Dekalb County jail employee is accused of stealing from an inmate. 19-year old Jess House of Fort Payne was charged with third-degree theft after it was reported that an inmate's property, worth about $175, was missing. House has already resigned as a corrections officer and was released from jail on a $500 bond. House returned the stolen items to the sheriff's office and the items will be returned to the inmate's family, since the inmate has already moved on to a state prison.

Busy day for Gadsden City Council

Gadsden City Council today has two meetings in addition to a work session and regular council meeting. The council’s Community Development Committee meets to discuss the proposed Community Development Block Grant budget. The council then meets with Ed Miller, superintendent of the Gadsden City School system, for an update on school activities.

Inmate's death investigated

The Marshall County Sheriff's Office says an inmate who collapsed last week died Friday morning at Huntsville Hospital. 47-year old Regina Theresa Carr had not complained of sickness prior to the collapse. Carr is from Arab, and was arrested on March 7 along with her boyfriend, William J. Dooley of Joppa. They were charged with manufacturing methamphetamine. Marshall County Sheriff Scott Walls has asked District Attorney Steve Marshall to investigate Carr's death. Her body will also have an autopsy at the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences in Huntsville. The results of the investigation will be presented to a grand jury.

Gadsden State narrowing field in President search

Gadsden State Community College is looking for their next president, and two employees still are under consideration. Valerie A. Richardson, vice president for institutional advancement and student services, and Martha G. Lavender, assistant to the president for Cherokee County operations and health sciences, are among the five candidates named by the presidential search committee Friday afternoon. The applicants were whittled down from 47 to 12 last week, and the top five candidates will be honored at a reception on campus in April. The top three finalists will be named in mid-April, with the final selection April 28.

E-tips helping Albertville PD

The Albertville Police Department has an email-based program called e-tips in which you can use to anonymously report on suspicious or criminal activity. Investigators say they've followed up on several tips, often involving drug cases. The email address is etips@cityofalbertville.com. The tips are checked daily and all information is kept confidential.

Fire near Arab suspicious

A house fire outside of Arab appears suspicious to investigators. Investigators are treating the house fire off Highway 67 as arson. The fire also destroyed four vehicles, plus two ATV's and a motorcycle. Investigators say the reason they believe the fire is suspicious is no one was at home at the time and power to the home had been removed. They were on the scene again yesterday looking for clues, and will continue to investigate. They have said they have some suspects in mind, but haven't made any arrests yet.

Pollen levels up

The weather will be nice over the next few days, but if you're an allergy sufferer you may want to limit your time outside. Pollen levels are expected to skyrocket as warm, sunny, dry weather settles into the area. The levels will be highest on Friday. If you're sneezing and have itchy, watery eyes you can blame trees like cedars, elms, and maples.

Gadsden Road hurt by rains

Rains last week caused a pipe at the intersection of Tabor Road and Tabor Circle in Gadsden to collapse, and it needed to be replaced. That's why the road was shut down yesterday, if you were wondering. Gadsden Public Works says everything should be back to normal today.

Boaz date set for Second Saturday

The Boaz Area Chamber of Commerce is preparing for another Boaz 2nd Saturday Night in the downtown district. The first one received rave reviews. The next one on Main Street is scheduled for April 9 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. with live entertainment provided by area band NewSouth. The Sand Mountain Cruiserswill present the antique car show alongside food vendors. Some downtown businesses are extending their hours to remain open for the event.

Historic pottery exhibit on display

Alabama Folk Pottery Exhibit will be on display tomorrow at the Boaz Public Library. It's a free event, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with have pottery exhibits from all over Alabama. Many of the pieces date back to the 1800s, when pottery was a major industry for much of Alabama, especially in areas like Sand Mountain.

Boaz Chamber news

Applications for junior ambassadors are due March 25. They are available in the counselor's office at Boaz High School. Also in Boaz, Citizen of the Year nominations are due April 7. Forms are available in the chamber office on Bartlett Ave. or online at www.boazchamberofcommerce.com.

Pollen count affects allergy sufferers

The weather will be nice over the next few days, but if you're an allergy sufferer you may want to limit your time outside. Pollen levels are expected to skyrocket as warm, sunny, dry weather settles into the area. The levels will be highest on Friday. If you're sneezing and have itchy, watery eyes you can blame trees like cedars, elms, and maples.

Lawmakers target bullying

There is no anti-bullying policy currently in Alabama schools, but there is a proposal in Alabama's legislature now to prevent harassment in public schools. If passed, lawmakers would create the Alex Moore Act, named after the Jemison student who committed suicide. The bill would allow a student to change schools under the dire circumstances of being bullied.

Newton works out

Auburn Tiger Cam Newton had a private workout yesterday with the Carolina Panthers as the NFL draft approaches. Despite the legal battle between NFL coaches and players, the NFL draft will go on as scheduled in late April. Several teams have professed an interest in Newton, including the Panthers and Dallas Cowboys. He's projected to be a high draft pick.

Meth arrest at a Guntersville trouble spot

Guntersville police say Christopher Gamble of Albertville handed some meth to officers when they showed up to investigate, and then he was surprised when they arrested him. The arrest happened at the same home where Guntersville police arrested ten people for making meth in November. About a week ago, police again busted the man who lives in the trailer during a traffic stop. They decided to follow up and that's when they arrested Gamble.

Etowah couple sentenced on embezzling charges

An Etowah County couple has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for hacking into their employer’s computer and embezzling more than $120,000. Charles Allen Elliott and Carol Ann Elliott were sentenced on forgery and computer fraud charges and ordered to pay the $120,000 in restitution to DWP Construction, and another $13,028 to First Commercial Bank. They must serve three years supervised release after completing their prison terms. The Elliotts pleaded guilty to the charges in December.

Dekalb County teen found safe

A DeKalb County teenager who was reported missing Monday night has been found at the Alabama Welcome Center on Interstate 59 at the Alabama-Georgia state line. The boy’s mother reported her son took his dirt bike out to ride in the woods behind their house about 1 p.m. Monday and hadn't returned. She was concerned he may have had an accident. Police responded and search and rescue crews were on stand by, then the boy turned up. The Dekalb County sheriff's office said in a release the teenager apparently left his bike in the woods behind the center and walked to the state line.

Boaz trash increase on April bills

If you haven't noticed yet, you will soon. Boaz is raising its rates for garbage collection for the first time in three years. The rate increase will show up on April bills. The rate has been raised 95 cents to offset the fee increases from the contractor, Advanced Disposal. Boaz officials are quick to point out the rate increase is not a profit for them, it just offsets costs.

Arson investigation continues into Lowe fire

Investigators say a fire at the home of Kathy Lowe earlier this month was arson. You may remember Lowe stood trial for allegedly murdering her husband David Lowe last summer. That ended in a mistrial and she will have to stand trial again in November. The fire investigation is ongoing, so investigators have released very few details. We do know it began in a back bedroom, and the roof was burned off. Investigators interviewed seven people about the fire last week, and anyone with information is welcome to provide it. We'll post the arson task force hotline on our website for you.


1-800-654-0775

Settlement reached in Griffith trial

The civil trial involving former U.S. Representative Parker Griffith and his brother has ended. The civil trial started last week in Marshall County. Griffith and his brother were being sued for fraud and breach of contract by former employee Bert Coe, who claimed he was owed unpaid commission for sales made while work at funeral homes the Griffiths owned. Defense witnesses testified Coe calculated his own commission and was informed when his rate went down. No other details are available since the judge issued a gag order, but a settlement was reached.

Gadsden police officer sent to hospital after mall incident

A Gadsden police officer was hospitalized after an incident at the mall Saturday. A fight broke out over the arrest of a juvenile, and once the officer went down that drew additional Gadsden police officers as well as officers from Rainbow City, Southside and the Etowah County Sheriff’s Department. As officers apprehended one juvenile, they were followed by a crowd. One female became combative, according to police reports, and a skirmish took the officer to the ground. The officer is expected to by okay, and more charges for those involved in the scuffle could be pending.

Revenue up in Gadsden

Most of the city of Gadsden’s revenue sources are up slightly for the first five months of fiscal year, according to a report prepared by city Finance Director Lisa Rosser. Collections through February were $22.35 million. That is an increase of 1.2 percent from last year. It's a positive sign, but the city is quick to add overall revenues are still down $130,000 from fiscal year 2009. Of the city’s four major revenue sources - sales and use tax, occupational license fees, ad valorem taxes and business licenses - Rosser told the Gadsden Times only business license collections were down.

More athletic trainers on the sidelines now in Alabama

With growing concerns about concussions in sports, more schools are putting athletic trainers on the sidelines. WAFF talked with some trainers who are there to take the burden off coaches.






Coaches used to have to make the call themselves, whether or not to send a student to a physician, now more and more trainers in Alabama are right there to assess the student. Huntsville Hospital's Sports Medicine program plays a big part in putting athletic trainers in schools in Madison County, for one.

Boaz to address 1-cent sales tax tonight

Boaz is expected to vote on the 1-cent city sales tax increase today. If approved, the larger Marshall County portion of Boaz would change from 7 to 8 percent. The smaller Etowah County portion of Boaz is already 8 percent, and city officials expect the sales tax to rise to 9 percent there. The money from the increase would go toward paving streets, purchasing equipment in the police and street departments, and upgrading recreation facilities. If it's approved, the hike could take effect as soon as May 1.

Boaz offers free mulch

If you need some help in the garden, the Boaz street department is offering free mulch beginning next Monday. The mulch will be available Mondays through Wednesdays from noon to 3 p.m. at the department’s site on College Avenue. You can have one load, no larger than a pickup load. That lasts for the first two weeks, and then after April 4th, any size pickup or dump truck can load up.

Guntersville theft ring broken up

Police have charged two people in a Guntersville theft ring, but believe more suspects are to be found. The target has been homes and cars in the south end of Guntersville and in Albertville, with about a dozen thefts in the past few weeks. A 16-year-old juvenile and 19-year-old Jason Lance Hubble Jr. of Dawson have been charged with three counts of burglary and theft of property. Investigators say mostly electronic items were stolen. The two were caught after a resident thought they looked suspicious and called police.

Marshall County, lowest unemployment rate in the area

Alabama's unemployment rate is up for January. The average now is 9.3 percent, slightly above the national average. Marshall County is also at 9.3 percent and that's actually the lowest in the area. DeKalb County is at 12.4 percent for Janauary, and Etowah County at 9.9 percent. Researcher at the University of Alabama have said a slight rise in the unemployment rate is normal when the economy starts to improve. Unemployed people who got discouraged during the recession and quit looking for a job were no longer counted in the unemployment rate. When the economy picked up and they started job hunting again, they were once again counted in the unemployment numbers.

Mayor aims to save Aviation Center

Albertville Mayor Lindsay Lyons says the city will do whatever is necessary to keep the Aviation Center. Lyons is hoping Enterprise State Community College would commit to another three years before closing the school, and to help bring down the $150,000 a year it costs to keep the school open, the city is willing to throw in free utilities on top of the free rent it has already offered and pay for the marketing of the school. The mayor said the rent and utilities would knock off about $36,000. The school needs about 60 students to break even.

911 faces shortfall under new bill

If a new bill passes, Marshall County Emergency 911 operations face the possibility of losing $40,000 in revenue. Each Emergency 911 district currently receives 70 cents per month for all contract cell phone accounts, according to Marshall County 911 director Johnny Hart. But cell phone companies are pushing legislation that would reduce the amount to 65 cents per month for contract accounts and prepaid phone cards, regardless of the number of minutes or cost of the card. Statewide the loss could be $3 million, with $40,000 of that in Marshall County. The Marshall County Commission has drafted a resolution opposing the legislation.

Arab woman missing

A Marshall County woman is missing off the southern coast of England. Family in Arab say Lieutenant Colonel Mary Ewing disappeared during a scuba diving trip Saturday. She's a bomb squad tech and logistics supervisor in the U.S. Army who has served in places like South Korea and Afghanistan. No body has been found, and her family in Arab is on edge, awaiting news from England.

Bad Check Writer Roundup is on

You may remember bad check writers in Marshall county were given a free pass in February, given the chance to clear the record. But this week, law enforcement came knocking on doors as part of the Bad Check Roundup. Nineteen people were taken to the District Attorney's Worthless Check Unit Tuesday, and then to the Marshall County Jail. Now deputies are working on 175 warrants and locating those others to come make amends for those checks. In all, over 106-thousand dollars has been recovered since the amnesty period began on February 1st. Officials with the bad check unit say they've also cleared up some cases dating back to 1990.

Local activist to be honored

Equal pay activist Lilly Ledbetter of Jacksonville will be one of 11 women enshrined later this year in the National Women’s Hall of Fame. You may remember Ledbetter's equal pay suit against Goodyear went to the U.S. Supreme Court and sparked a pay equity act that bears her name. She'll be inducted along with civil rights champion Coretta Scott King, singer Billie Holiday, and educator Donna Shalala. The 11 will be inducted Oct. 1 at a ceremony in Seneca Falls, N.Y.

Newton prepares for NFL

What's next for Auburn's Cam Newton? He's no doubt hoping the NFL settles on a new collective bargaining agreement this week so the NFL season can continue as scheduled this fall. The deadline for a new deal is tomorrow at 4pm. Newton is projected to be one of the top picks in this year's draft, and worked out for NFL officials at Pro Day this week at Auburn. Newton wasn't the only one to show his skills during the drills. Other Auburn players hoping to play at the next level performed too. Teams mentioned in the same breath with Newton include the Cowboys, Cardinals, Titans, and Bills.

Governor declares State of Emergency

Governor Robert Bentley has declared a statewide state of emergency after the severe weather moved through the state Tuesday and Wednesday. Several counties have experienced heavy rain, flash flooding and possible tornadoes. Seventeen counties have reported some type of storm damage according to the Alabama Emergency Management Agency. By declaring a state of emergency, it authorizes the Alabama Emergency Management Agency to assist counties in assessing damage and seeking state and federal funds.

Texting and driving crackdown campaign begins

Consumer Reports has launched a new cell phone awareness campaign along with the Transportation Department. It focuses on distracted driving by teens who text and talk in the car. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood says its time to get serious.






The government has rolled out a new website and you'll see lots of PSA's in the coming months addressing the problem.

Lawsuit filed against ex-Congressman

An ex-congressman is being sued. A Marshall County man has filed a lawsuit against former U.S. Rep. Parker Griffith, saying Griffith owes him untold amounts in sales commissions when he worked for the lawmaker's funeral home business. Bert Coe served as a director for nearly ten years, and he's suing for lost wages. He said he oversaw about 15 funeral homes owned by the congressman.
Griffith declined to comment during the court proceedings.

Flanagan tapped for judge's chair

Guntersville Attorney Hugh Flanagan has been appointed by governor Robert Bentley, to fill a vacant Marshall County district judge's seat. Part of his docket will be with juvenile court, and Flanagan says he takes the welfare of children very seriously. Flanagan replaces Liles Burke who was appointed to the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals in February. Flanagan will have to be approved by voters in the 2012 election.

Arizona style immigration bill leaves committee

An Alabama House committee has passed an Arizona-style immigration bill. The measure would both prohibit employers from knowingly hiring illegal immigrants and would require local officials to enforce federal immigration laws. The bill by Rep. Micky Hammon of Decatur also makes it a felony crime for an illegal immigrant to register to vote. Hammon and other Republicans had been pushing for legislation for several years, but they had trouble moving it before the GOP won control of the Legislature last year. The bill moves on to the full House.

Attalla cockfighting ring broken up

A suspected cockfighting ring was broken up outside Attalla last weekend. The owner of the property where the cockfight was about to take place was arrested Sunday morning and charged with a misdemeanor. Deputies responded to a noise complaint, and found about 60 people gathered at a shed behind an old house on Clanton Road outside Attalla. The cockfighting operation was set up, and scales and other items used for a cockfight were found. There were many roosters, but since a fight had not begun there were no other charges possible besides the misdemeanor for the owner. Police said they would be back if the cockfighting continued.

JR Countryman's funeral today

Funeral services are today for former Gadsden City Councilman JR Countryman. They'll be this afternoon at 1pm at Village Chapel. The Gadsden City Council has changed its meeting times today to allow current members to attend the funeral. Countryman had been admitted to Regional Medical Center in Anniston just more than a month ago after an elective surgery procedure. He was 71.

Saturday forum to address aquatic weed issues

Changes in seasonal weather patterns and the introduction of new, invasive species, have led to an increase in aquatic weed problems on Guntersville Reservoir. To help combat the problem, an aquatic plant management forum will happen this Saturday at the Guntersville Senior Center. The meeting will run from 9am to 12:30pm, and it's free and open to the public. Several aquatic resource managers will speak on specific species, herbicides, and the largemouth bass populations in Guntersville.

Aderholt attends Exxel ribbon cutting

Congressman Robert Aderholt was in attendance yesterday at a ribbon cutting for Exxel Outdoors, Inc.in Haleyville. Congressman Robert Aderholt submitted a bill called the Free and Fair Trade Act last week in the House of Representatives that would protect sleeping bag manufacturing jobs at Exxel from unfair competition overseas. Other suppliers of sleeping bags and manufacturing companies would benefit from this bill in South Carolina, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Mississippi, New York and New Jersey, among others.

DeKalb County investigates attempted murder

A man named Boyce Batey was shot during a robbery over the weekend and is still in critical condition. Batey was at a gas station in downtown Geraldine on Saturday morning when he was approached by Patty Westbrook of Guntersville for a ride, according to DeKalb County Sheriff Jimmy Harris. Batey agreed, but was eventually shot as he was being robbed at the intersection of County Roads 36 and 246. Westbrook has been charged with attempted murder. Kenneth Chamblee of Albertville has also arrested and is now being questioned.

Hearing set in Toomer's tree case

A hearing has been set in the tree poisoning case at Auburn. Harvey Updyke Jr. is the man accused of poisoning the 130 year old oaks at Toomer's corner, and will appear in court April 20. Updyke is charged with criminal mischief. Auburn University removed the contaminated soil from the trees’ roots as part of an effort to save the landmark oaks.

Local author signs book Monday

A local author is releasing her first book and is planning to put another one on the shelves by the end of March. Jeanne Duke is currently touring local libraries and holding book signings. Duke will be at the Albertville Public Library from 2 to 5 p.m today, signing copies of her book.

Funding issues at the Albertville Aviation Center

The Albertville Aviation Center is facing funding issues. Enterprise State Community College operates the facility, and recently announced it was opening a new facility at Calhoun Community College in Decatur. This came after reports that the Albertville school was closing. Since then, local leaders have said the school is staying in Albertville, but now they are saying the future of the school could be in question because of financial issues. Economic Development Director and Airport Manager Jerry Cofield says the school is losing $150,000 per year and has to get to the point where enrollment sustains operations. The school's fate could be decided by June.

Suspect in stolen drain gates case

Police have a suspect in connection with stolen storm drain grates. The thefts occured in Guntersville and Albertville. Albertville police say warrants for theft are being obtained on 38-year-old Christopher Michael Gibson of Albertville. Police say he's confessed to the theft of two grates in Guntersville and four in Albertville in recent months.

Footballs signed by Saban and Chizik up for auction

The third annual “Little Touch of Red” social is coming up March 25 with the American Red Cross. The event is one of the largest fundraisers for the Marshall County branch, which is not government funded and relies on the generosity of the community. The auction that night will include footballs autographed by Nick Saban and Gene Chizik. The event in the past has raised $18,000, and this year they're hoping for $25,000. It will be held at the Guntersville Senior Center on the 25th and will begin at 6 p.m.

Gambling defendants to be tried together

A federal judge has denied a request for separate trials, wanted by several defendants in Alabama’s gambling corruption case. U.S. District Judge Myron Thompson's ruling means the 10 defendants will be tried together in June. Casino owner Milton McGregor, state Sens. Harri Ann Smith and Quinton Ross, former Sen. Larry Means, lobbyist Bob Geddie and casino spokesman Jay Walker had sought separate trials. The judge ruled that trying the 10 defendants together will not be prejudicial.

New jobs in Boaz

New jobs are coming to Boaz. Alatrade Foods is reopening a plant, plus Pinnacle Manufacturing is expanding. Those two efforts combined are expected to create 125 new jobs in Boaz. Alatrade plans to reopen its poultry processing plant on Henderson Road on March 21. 140 to 150 employees are expected to work single day shifts at the plant initially. Alatrade also operates plants in Albertville and Phenix City. They may transfer 50 workers from Albertville. Hourly wages are expected to range from $7.25 to $10.50. Applications are available at 1287 Wagner Drive. Pinnacle is also on Henderson Road in Boaz, and they'll create 25 new jobs.

Rich busy at the Capitol

Rep. Kerry Rich of Albertville has been busy at the state legislature, sponsoring a bill which with some exceptions would require voters to show photo identification at the polls. State voters for years have been required to show identification at the polls, but many forms of non-photo IDs are allowed such as a utility bill or bank statement that shows a voter's name and address. That would stop under this bill. The House Constitution, Campaigns, and Elections Committee passed the bill yesterday. Now it goes to the full house.

Motorcyclist injured

A motorcyclist was injured yesterday after he and another vehicle collided in Alexandria. Alabama State Trooper spokesman Chad Joiner said 56-year old Tony Steven Faulkner, of Alexandria had to be life-flighted to a hospital. The motocycle collided with a picup truck, whose driver was not injured.

Storm Spotter Class next week

The Marshall County Emergency Management Agency is hosting a Storm Spotter Class next Tuesday. The training will begin at 6:00pm in the emergency operations center at 3550 Creek Path Road, Guntersville. It will show you what to look for during severe weather and offer instructions on how to report it. No registration is required and the class is free.

Tax credits seen as a way to boost business

Two state senators plan to propose a tax credit that would reward businesses that create jobs. According to the Gadsden Times, Sen. Cam Ward of Alabaster, and Sen. Phil Williams of Rainbow City, said the bill would give greater credits to businesses located in the most economically distressed areas of the state as determined by unemployment and per capita income.

Marshall County revises certification reimbursements

Marshall County is offering incentive for its employees when it comes to certification exams. The county will now pay for an employee's first attempt at a certification exam, but if a re-take is necessary the employee will have to pick up the tab. The county had paid for an unlimited number of tests in the past.

Stolen van recovered

26-year old Donald Christopher Hart of Albertville has been arrested after Albertville police say he wrecked a stolen van. The van was reported stolen last weekend from Factory Connections. Police spotted the van on Mathis Mill and began surveillance of the van and the residence. Officers saw Hart leave in the van, then run a red light and get in a one-vehicle accident. So far Hart has been charged with reckless endangerment, but more charges could be filed as the investigation continues.

Gas prices closely watched

If it feels like gas prices are skyrocketing, well Alabama has seen quite an incredible spike. Average prices for a gallon of gas have jumped 24 percent across the state in the past week, and now hover around the national average of $3.28 per gallon. Prices are up 66 cents from a year ago. It's not just tough on folks who want to fill up their vehicles, but other companies who drive for a living could start passing the cost along to consumers. That's contractors, exterminators, not to mention grocery suppliers. Gas prices are something being closely watched right now by many analysts, for a variety of reasons.

IRS warning: Scam email

The Internal Revenue Service warns taxpayers that a scam e-mail is circulating now that fraudulently uses the IRS name and logo as a lure. It claims a federal tax payment has been rejected and directs you complete an attached form. That attachment contains a virus that may infect your computer so they can steal personal and financial information. This email is going to both individuals and businesses, according to the IRS. IRS spokesman Michael Devine says the IRS never sends unsolicited e-mail asking for your financial or detailed personal information. Just delete the message and don't click any links.

Three arrested on drug charges

Marshall County Sheriff investigators arrested three people after a traffic stop Sunday. Jennifer Bowling, John Skaggs, and Kyle Brakefield have been arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit a controlled substance crime, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphenalia. All three are in the Marshall County jail with no bond.

Congrats to an Etowah County teacher

Speech therapist Carrie Handley was recently named Etowah County School’s Elementary Teacher of the Year. She's been with Etowah county schools since 2003, and her job takes her to several schools in the county each week.

Gadsden shoplifter arrested

A 47-year old man was caught shoplifting last weekend at the Dollar Tree on George Wallace Drive in east Gadsden, and he reportedly shoved a clerk to the floor and injured her. According to the Gadsden Times, the man put several items inside his clothing and when an employee confronted him, the items he was attempting to steal fell out of his clothing and he tried to run for the door. He was seen later running inside K-Mart, and a Gadsden police officer was able to arrest him. He's expected to be charged with third degree robbery.

Group seeks to fuel economic growth

Retail growth is a big focus for the Albertville Commercial Developement Authority, and they have a new plan to help in the process. Economic Development Director Jerry Cofield told the Sand Mountain Reporter, the proposal is to foster a retail incubator in the downtown area. That incubator would have under its umbrella a number of different businesses that will come under one roof and work under one business license. One possible location for the shared-business location, is the former candy shop downtown at 118 East Main. The goal is to let business help each other grow, and eventually move out on their own.