Archive for May 2013
05/31/2013 – 4th Annual Customer Appreciation Day in Downtown Hamilton, Alabama – June 1st
Fourth Annual Customer Appreciation Day
Saturday, June 1
(Rain date – June 15)
1 p.m. to approximately 10 p.m.
Downtown Hamilton
Stage will be located on the southwest corner of the court square.
Bring your own lawn chairs!
Special decorating lighting in downtown for the evening events!
Merchants throughout Hamilton (not just downtown) will hold special sales all day long. Many merchants will have special sidewalk sales, special indoor and outdoor displays, and have their own individual drawings for giveaways throughout the day and evening, and will remain open until at least 9 p.m.. Town Square Jewelry will be hosting an art show, and Picket Fence will be holding interactive kids’ art activities throughout the day.
Free water and soft drinks throughout the day (while supplies last) and free hot dogs from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. (while supplies last).
Car Cruise-In – 5 p.m. until… No charge for participation. Registration and drawings exclusively for cruise-in participants, to include $100 grand prize.
Hamilton Bucks – Drawings at 5 p.m., 6 p.m., 7 p.m., and 8 p.m. for $200 each. Grand prize drawing of $500 of Hamilton Bucks will take place at 9 p.m. Winners must be present. Registration must be made inside the businesses and participants must be at least 16 years old. Winners will have 14 days to redeem Hamilton Bucks in participating businesses which will be annotated by “Hamilton Bucks” posters.
Customer Appreciation Day Kids’ Corner – Throughout the day, there will an area for kids to participate in carnival-type games. Most games will cost $1 to participate. Kids (15 and under) will be able to register at the Kids’ Corner for a package of prizes from the local merchants ($50 value).
The Duck Dynasty look-alike contest will probably be the show-stealer of the stage at the 2013 Customer Appreciation Day. There is no charge to participate, and anyone, any age, is invited to dress up as their favorite Duck Dynasty character. Prizes will be awarded for first, second, and third place, $60, $40, and $20 in Hamilton Bucks. No preregistration needed.
There will be a static display by the auto dealers in Hamilton — Fikes Chevrolet, Logan & Logan Auto Sales, Jim Bishop Credit Cars, Lamb Motors, and MotorSports SuperStore.
The Chamber will be selling t-shirts and tickets for their upcoming 10th annual Shrimp Boil on June 11th.
STAGE SCHEDULE
1 p.m. – AseraCare Memorial Butterfly release
1:30 p.m. – Grace School of Dance
2 p.m. – Chris Williams
2:45 p.m. – Duck Dynasty look-alike contest
3 p.m – Chosen
3:30 p.m. – The Hope Alive Worship Team
4:15 p.m. – Colby Nix
5 p.m. – Mulberry Road
6:15 p.m. – Eric Swan
7:30 p.m. – Handshake Promise
05/29/2013 – Marion County, AL Sheriff’s Dept. Weekly News Report – Sheriff Kevin Williams
1 – Public Intoxication
1 – Probation Violation
2 – Issuing Worthless Checks
1 – Non-Support
1 – Resisting Arrest
2 – Domestic Violence 3rd – Assault
1 – Criminal Trespass 3rd
1 – Bench Warrant
1 – Fugitive From Justice
1 – Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor
1 – Consumption as a Minor
FELONIES
Name: Daniel Lee Brown
Age: 52
Address-City: Winfield, AL
Charges:
Possession Controlled Substance
Paraphernalia
Date of Arrest: 05/28/2013
Amount of Bond: $3,000
Date of Release: In Jail
Arresting Agency: County
Name: John Franks
Age: 30
Charges:
Attempt to Commit Controlled Substance Crime
Violation Pseudoephedrine Law
Date of Arrest: 05/22/2013
Amount of Bond: $5,000
Date of Release: In Jail
Arresting Agency: County
Name: Kelly Smith
Age: 42
Address-City: Hamilton, AL
Charges:
Manufacturing 1st
Possession Controlled Substance
Paraphernalia
Date of Arrest: 05/28/2013
Amount of Bond: $15,500
Date of Release: In Jail
Arresting Agency: County
Name: Derrick Terry
Age: 33
Address-City: Hamilton, AL
Charges:
Manufacture 1st
Possession Controlled Substance
Paraphernalia
Date of Arrest: 05/28/2013
Amount of Bond: $15,500
Date of Release: In Jail
Arresting Agency: County
(All persons charged with a crime are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The charges are merely an accusation unless otherwise stated.)
(Copyright ©2006-2013 www.49countynews.net. All Rights Reserved. Any reprint or copy of this article must include the aforementioned Copyright in its entirety.)
Disclaimer: 49CountyNews.Net reproduces publicly available arrest and booking records obtained from the relevant city, county or state reporting agency. 49CountyNews.Net makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information on the site, but does not guarantee accuracy of the records. The data may not reflect the status of current charges or convictions and all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Users shall not use the data to determine any individual’s criminal or conviction record. Please contact 49CountyNews.Net to report an inaccuracy at admin @ 49countynews.net.
05/30/2013 – Haleyville’s 911 Festival Set For May 31st & June 1st
9-1-1 FESTIVAL EVENTS
Friday, May 31 & Saturday, June 1, 2013
Friday, May 31st
2:00pm Arts/Crafts/Food Vendors Set-up on Main Street & blocked to thru traffic
Barbecue Contest Set-up…lower parking lot in front of ‘Safe Center’
Kids’ Zone Set-up…Moon Jump, Slide, Obstacle Course, etc.
Music Stage…upper parking lot above ‘Safe Center’
5:30pm Joseph Baldwin
6:30pm Tremayne
7:30pm The Springs
9:00pm Shenandoah
Saturday, June 1st
Barbecue Contest Competition….Alabama Barbecue Association Points apply
7:00am Lakeland Community Hospital 5K Fun Run
8:00am Classic Car Show benefitting Haleyville High School Automotive Technology…Parking Lot behind Dixie Theatre
8:00am Antique Tractor Show sponsored by Cox Farm Supply…10th Avenue beside Maxx Cleaners
9:00am Arts/Crafts/Food Vendors on Main Street
9:00am Kids’ Zone opens
9:00am Music Stage…..’Rebel Yell’…before & after parade
10:00am Parade…Haleyville Alumni & 9-1-1 Festival Units
11:30am Haleyville Alumni Luncheon at School
Afternoon……Barbecue Contest Judging & Awards
……Classic Car Show Awards
……Antique Tractor Show Awards
9-1-1 Car Show
9-1-1 Backyard BBQ
Sponsored by Goar’s Big Star May 31-June 1 2013
Printable Entry Form | Rules | Flyer
Chicken, Pork, Ribs
Grand Champion wins a
Kamado Ceramic grill ($700.00 value)
1st $250.00
2nd Place $175.00
3rd Place $100.00
Each Category
$100.00 entry fee – Registration due by May 15, 2013
Contact Jade Bice @ 205-485-3465 or Harold Fredrick @ 205-269-8600
Backyard BBQ Rules
All meat must be raw and inspected before your cooking process may begin.
A mandatory cooks meeting will be held at BBQ headquarters at 6pm on May 31.
Meat will be inspected after cooks meeting.
Turn in boxes will be provided by BBQ officials.
Turn in 6 servings of each. Lettuce (any kind) may be used for garnish
If you serve sauce it must be applied to the meat by you. No sauce on the side.
Any type of fuel source is allowed. Wood, charcoal , gas, or electric heat.
Limited water and power will be available. Bring your own hoses and extension cords.
Turn in times will be officially announced at the cooks meeting. Tentative times are as follows: Chicken 11:00, Ribs 11:30, Butt 12:00. Winners will be announced at 2:00pm
Have Fun.
We hope to be able to provide each cook team with food to prepare Friday night for sampling. Please be willing to participate in this part of the event. Sausage, chicken legs, country ribs are what we are hoping for. Final details will be announced at cooks meeting.
In 1968, the city of Haleyville made history when Alabama Speaker of the House Rankin Fite placed the first 911 emergency call from City Hall to U.S. Representative Tom Bevill at the city’s police station. Each year, Haleyville celebrates its role in history with the annual 9-1-1 Festival honoring all police, fire, rescue, and emergency personnel.
05/29/2013 – Hamilton Police Department
Chief Ronnie Vickery
Hamilton Police Department
Weekly News Report
Date: May 22-28, 2013
Wrecks – 4
Incident / Offense –
1 – Domestic Violence 3rd
1 – Domestic Violence – Criminal Mischief 3rd
1 – Harassment
1 – Theft of Property 1st
1 – Possession of Controlled Substance
1 – Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Arrest / Citation –
5 – Speeding
1 – DUI
1 – License Revoked
1 – Expired License
4 – No Insurance
3 – Expired Tag
1 – No Tag
2 – Public Intoxication
3 – Open Container in a Vehicle
1 – Possession of Marijuana 2nd
1 – Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
1 – Possession of Controlled Substance
6 – Alias Warrant
Hamilton Police Department
Felony – Weekly News Report
Dates: May 22-28, 2013
Date of Arrest: May 23, 2013
Name: Shirley, Ashley Nicole Johnson
Age: 30
City: Hamilton, AL
Charges:
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Possession of a Controlled Substance
Open container of Alcohol in a Vehicle
Status: Bonded
The defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Copyright: http://www.49countynews.net
05/24/2013 – Sen. Roger Bedford Capitol Report for May 24th, 2013
Capitol Report for May 24th, 2013
I am pleased to let you know that 49 County News, as part of their efforts to keep the community safe, have made a Google map of all the community storm shelters that are located in Marion County Alabama and Franklin County Alabama. I want to commend them for doing this as I think it will help keep people better informed about the exact location of the storm shelters. The 49 County News has made this information available for your iPhone through a free app from the app store. The app uses your location and gives you the ability to identify the closest community storm shelter to your present location. You should always have your safe place planned out in advance.
In order to take advantage of this map 49 County News has made you must download the free My Maps Editor App from the Apple App Store then follow the 49 County News link to download the KML File for the Google Map of Marion County as well as the KML file for Franklin County.
Unfortunately the GOP Republican Super Majority continued to pass a second verison of the Alabama Accountability Act which is also known as the School Voucher Plan. For the first time ever in our state, public dollars will follow children to private schools and our tax dollars will pay for private for profit schools. The deduction was raised from 50% to 100% for companies that want to donate to private school foundations to assist with public students going to private schools. It had been my hope that if the bill could not be repelled and go back to the Flexibility Bill , that we would at least prevent public dollars from going to private schools thus further weakening our public school systems. The new bill gives some school flexibility in complying with state education laws but also creates a tax credit known as vouchers for parents who choose to send their children to private schools and non-failing public schools but unfortunately private schools are not rated so we do not know if they are failing or not failing.
We also passed a bill to allow schools to hire armed security guards who have police training. I think that we must do all that we can to make our schools safer and a better learning environment for our children.
I offered an amendment to increase the raise to 5% for teachers K-12 and for those in our community college system and for retirees. We could have paid for this without taking any money out of the classroom. Unfortunately the Republican’s killed it, and the 5% pay raise that we proposed for teachers and personnel, both active and retired was changed into a 2% pay raise, good for only K-12 teachers. This is after the Republicans cut teachers pay by 2.5% three years ago, when they made them absorb more of the cost of their benefits which has historically been paid for by the state.
I am pleased to report to you that we approved borrowing 30 million through a bond issue to repair 6 schools damaged by the tornados 2011 and 2012 which included money to help finish the rebuilding and remodeling of Phil Campbell.
As many of you know we lost our state park in Gulf Shores, to a hurricane years ago. At the Governors urging the legislature agreed to use money from the BP oil spill settlement to build a convention center and conference center at the Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores. This will be run by a private, for profit, group hopefully selected through a bid process to obtain the best value at the least amount of cost to the public.
Perhaps one of the biggest disappointments to me is that the GOP Super Majority refused to expand Medicaid like I had requested. This would have included coverage for 350,000 Alabamians. These are working poor who are paying taxes, but can not afford health insurance or it’s simply not available at their job. This is particularly important in rural areas because this would have been 350,000 new customers for rural hospitals, doctors, pharmacists and dentist who are currently not customers because they can not afford the health care. This would have created approximately 10,000 new jobs in Alabama. It would have been paid for 100% by theFederal Government for the first three years beginning in 2014.
After that, the State would begin to shoulder some of the cost starting at 5% in 2017 and capping at 10% in 2020. The Federal Government would then continue to pay 90% of the cost with the State of Alabama only having to pay 10%. In other words, Alabama would reap a 9 to 1 Federal match. This would provide health care to cover an additional 7 % of our population who unfortunately will not get health coverage.
The Henry Kiser Family Foundation estimated the expansion would bring $10 billion in new federal health care money to Alabama from 2014 to 2019. The State’s cost to get these dollars would be approximately $582 million. That is like investing 500 dollars and getting back 10,000.
This is a tremendous economic opportunity for Alabama as well as a great way to improve the quality of life in this state that so far the Republicans have prevented us from accomplishing. I hope they will change their mind.
Governor Bentley being a doctor should surely see the need for better health care coverage in Alabama, particularly when it would it cost no new tax dollars to the Alabama tax payers.
I am pleased to report to you that I was successful in passing a bill to protect Alabama gun owner’s rights. As a life long hunter and fisherman I am a strong supporter of the 2nd amendment. Many years ago I became a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association because I think we should protect our 2nd amendment rights. I certainly believe that we must emphasize fire arm safety and the proper use of firearms. Early in the session the Business Council of Alabama had tried to kill our gun owners bill, but fortunately common sense carried and we passed it in a bipartizan manner.
Overall it was a tough session this year and I would give it a B- if I had to rate it. Had it not been for some major bills like the Breast Cancer Awareness Bill, the bill to protect our gun rights, along with a few others, it would have received a failing grade because of the lack of debate and transparency over this legislation which lead to the 8 page school Flexibility Bill being changed into a 28 page school voucher bill without any debate or amendments. I believe that when we have accountability in the Alabama Senate through debate and review of the bills and the issues along with the ability to listen to the constituents which we represent , we will have an accountable government that passes good bills and not these that are rushed through and then when the harm is found in them it is called unintended consequences.
I had the honor and privilege of being the commencement speaker at Vina High School graduation this week. I am very proud of all of this years graduates and their many accomplishments. I wish them all the very best in their future endeavors.
Please continue to contact me with your cards, letters, calls and e-mails. I consider it an honor to work for you.
Roger H. Bedford, Jr.
Alabama State House
11 S. Union Street, Suite 738
Montgomery, Alabama 36130
Phone 334-242-7862, Fax 334-242-9202
Russellville Office
P.O. Box 370
Russellville, Alabama 35653
Phone 256-332-6966 Fax 256-332-6967
Email:
senbedford@aol.com
Website:
—
Amanda Hovater
Assistant
Roger H. Bedford, Jr.
Alabama State Senator District 6
Roger Bedford & Assoc., P.C.
Attorney at Law
P.O. Box 370
Russellville, Alabama 35653
(256) 332-6966 – Direct Line Russellville Office
(256) 332-2880 – Law Firm
(256) 332-6967 – Facsimile
(334) 242-7862 – Montgomery Office
AHovater.RBA@gmail.com
05/21/2013 – Hamilton, AL Police Weekly News Report
Date: May 15-21, 2013
Wrecks – 5
Incident / Offense –
1 – Domestic Violence 3rd
1 – Assault 3rd
2 – Harassment
1 – Theft of Lost Property
Arrest / Citation –
3 – Speeding
3 – DUI
2 – License Suspended
6 – No Insurance
1 – No Drivers License
1 – Improper Lights
1 – Public Intoxication
2 – Expired Tag
1 – Running Stop Sign
3 – Minor Consuming Alcohol
1 – Open Container of Alcohol in Vehicle
1 – Harassment
4 – Alias Warrant
Felony – Weekly News Report
Dates:
May 15-21, 2013
Date of Arrest:
****************** None *********************
Name:
Age:
City:
Charges:
Status:
(All persons charged with a crime are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The charges are merely an accusation unless otherwise stated.)
(Copyright ©2006-2013 http://www.49countynews.net. All Rights Reserved. Any reprint or copy of this article and/or picture must include the aforementioned Copyright in its entirety.)
05/22/2013 – Marion County, AL Sheriff’s Office Weekly News Report
1 – DC-Alias
1 – TR-Alias
2 – DUI
2 – Violation Release Order
1 – Drug Paraphernalia
1 – Probation Violation
1 – Issuing Worthless Checks
1 – Non-Support
2 – Resisting Arrest
1 – Domestic Violence 3rd – Assault
1 – Disorderly Conduct
2 – Illegal Possession Prohibited Beverage
2 – Bench Warrant
FELONIES
Name: May, Rebecca
Age: 35
Address-City: Hamilton, AL
Charges:
Manufacture 2nd
Possession Controlled Substance
Paraphernalia
Date of Arrest: 05/17/2013
Amount of Bond: $10,500
Date of Release: 05/20/2013
Arresting Agency: County
Name: Bailey, James
Age: 22
Address-City: Bear Creek, AL
Charges:
Manufacture 2nd
Possession Controlled Substance
Paraphernalia
Date of Arrest: 05/17/2013
Amount of Bond: $10,500
Date of Release: 05/21/2013
Arresting Agency: County
Name: Robbins, Anthony
Age: 23
Address-City: Hamilton, AL
Charges:
Manufacture 2nd
Possession Controlled Substance
Paraphernalia
Date of Arrest: 05/17/2013
Amount of Bond: $10,500
Date of Release: In Jail
Arresting Agency: County
Name: Bailey, Angela
Age: 43
Address-City: Hackleburg, AL
Charges:
Grand Jury Indictment / Illegal Purchase Ephedrine
Date of Arrest: 05/18/2013
Amount of Bond: $5,000
Date of Release: 05/18/2013
Arresting Agency: County
Name: Peck, Ruby
Age: 65
Address-City: Satsuma, FL
Charges:
Criminal Mischief 1st
Theft of Property 3rd
Date of Arrest: 05/18/2013
Amount of Bond: $4,000
Date of Release: 05/18/2013
Arresting Agency: County
(All persons charged with a crime are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The charges are merely an accusation unless otherwise stated.)
(Copyright ©2006-2013 http://www.49countynews.net. All Rights Reserved. Any reprint or copy of this article must include the aforementioned Copyright in its entirety.)
05/21/2013 – Marion County & Franklin County Community Storm Shelters Map for iPhone
We a 49 County News are dedicated to keeping our community safe. We have made a Google map of all the Community Storm Shelters that are located in Marion County Alabama and Franklin County Alabama and made them available on your iPhone with the help of a Free App from the App Store. The app uses your location and give you the ability to identify the closest Community Shelter to your present location. You should always have your safe place planned out in advance!
In order to take advantage of the maps we have built you must download the free My Maps Editor App from the Apple App Store and then follow our link from here to download the KML file from our Google Map.
Click Here To Download My Maps Editor
Click Here to download the KML file from our Google Map ( Marion County, Alabama )
Click Here to download the KML file from our Google Map ( Franklin County, Alabama )
This App and Map is designed as a reference tool. The locations of the Community Storm Shelters in Marion County were provided to us by Marion County EMA and are as accurate as they can possibly be.
05/21/2013 – Press Release from Alabama’s Governor Robert Bentley
May 21, 2013
Alabama Ready to Assist Oklahoma as Needed in Tornado Recovery
MONTGOMERY – Governor Robert Bentley on Tuesday said various state agencies in Alabama are in contact with their counterparts in Oklahoma to offer any assistance needed in the recovery from Monday’s deadly tornado. Governor Bentley also encouraged Alabamians to keep the people of Oklahoma in their prayers throughout the recovery.
“It’s important for all of us to continue to pray for the people of Oklahoma and their leaders,” Governor Bentley said. “We can identify with what the people of Oklahoma are going through. Our people understand what it means to comfort loved ones, to support survivors and to help in the long-term recovery of communities.”
Governor Bentley said the Alabama Emergency Management Agency has highly-trained disaster recovery teams ready to serve in Oklahoma as necessary. Also, the Alabama National Guard stands ready to help in Oklahoma if any guard assistance is requested during the recovery process.
In addition, the Alabama Department of Insurance has contacted the Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner’s Office to offer any needed assistance. Following the April 2011 tornadoes, various insurance departments from across the country sent representatives to Alabama to help advise citizens on how to file claims. Representatives also worked to answer questions from storm survivors on various insurance matters. The Alabama Department of Insurance is ready to do the same for the people of Oklahoma, as needed, and will coordinate any requests through the Alabama EMA.
“My office is in contact with Governor Fallin’s office in Oklahoma,” Governor Bentley said. “We know the people of Oklahoma are facing an overwhelming challenge right now, and it may be some time before the leaders in Oklahoma are able to assess whether they need any direct assistance from our state agencies. What we can say with certainty, though, is that we’re ready to help in any way we can. The people of Alabama will stand strong with the people of Oklahoma.”
Serve Alabama, the Governor’s Office of Faith-Based and Volunteer Service, has received several inquiries from citizens wanting to know how to help. The most effective donations after disasters are financial donations. Serve Alabama has compiled donation information on various non-profit organizations that help with disaster response. Information can be found online at http://www.servealabama.gov. Also, information from the American Red Cross can be found at http://www.redcross.org.
It is important for civilians not to “self-deploy” to Oklahoma at this particular time.
“The immediate search and rescue operation that is underway is critical to saving lives; however, when people with good intentions self-deploy, they risk jeopardizing the mission and can create unnecessary confusion within the disaster,” Alabama EMA Director Art Faulkner said. “Part of our responsibility at the Alabama EMA is to manage the flow of resources internally as well as externally.”
Instead of “self-deploying,” officials recommend that any on-site volunteer efforts should be coordinated with established relief agencies. Volunteers Active in Disaster (VOAD) is a group of trusted agencies that work together to find opportunities for people to help. More information from VOAD can be found online through the VOAD links on the Serve Alabama website. VOAD will continue to provide updates throughout the recovery.
05/20/2013 – Governor Bentley Statement Following Oklahoma Tornado
May 20, 2013
MONTGOMERY – Governor Robert Bentley issued a statement following the deadly tornado that struck Oklahoma on Monday afternoon.
“Dianne and I are offering prayers of support for everyone in Oklahoma. The people of Alabama can identify first-hand with those who have suffered such a devastating loss. We understand how painful it is to lose friends, neighbors and loved ones. We understand the challenges of a massive recovery and rebuilding effort. We will stand with the people of Oklahoma in the coming days, weeks, months and years.
“My office has been in direct contact with Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin’s office, and we are offering whatever assistance Alabama can provide. The Alabama Emergency Management Agency is prepared to coordinate any and all resources that may be requested by Oklahoma.
“Following the April 2011 tornadoes, people from other states showed tremendous compassion to Alabama. They helped us in our own rebuilding. They volunteered their time and their resources. They stood with us in prayer and support. Alabama stands ready to do the same for the people of Oklahoma.”
05/20/2013 – Announcement – Tonight’s Hamilton, AL City Council Meeting Postponed
Tonight’s 6:00 p.m., (Monday, May 20th, 2013) regularly scheduled, Hamilton City Council Meeting, is postponed until tomorrow night, Tuesday, May 21st, 6:00 p.m., at the Hamilton, AL City Hall.
For information call the Hamilton, AL. City Hall at (205)921-2121
Copyright: http://www.49countynews.net
05/17/2013 – Senator Roger Bedford – Capitol Report for May 17th, 2013
Capitol Report for May 17th, 2013
Despite the pouring rain during the Relay for Life celebrations the efforts to support the American Cancer Society went forward very successfully throughout our Senate District. I realize that many of the events were moved indoors. My wife and I had the pleasure of attending the Franklin County American Cancer Society Relay for Life, where my wife completed her first lap as a breast cancer survivor and I completed mine 23 years cancer fee thanks to the good Lord’s healing grace. There was a great turn out at the Russellville Middle School Gymnasium and little over $91,000 was raised for cancer research. I heard from the other Relay for Life events throughout our Senate District and they went forward as well. I want to congratulate everyone that took the time to participate and help raise money for the cure, while also taking a moment to remember those who have gone on to heaven because of this deadly disease. I hope that we will soon , not only find a cure, but also ways to manage and thereby control cancer when it occurs in our friends and neighbors.
It’s certainly been nice to be back in the Senate District this week visiting with many of you throughout our seven county region. I am sad to report to you however that the Republican Super Majority in the Alabama State Senate rammed through an updated version of the Private School Voucher Law, and with it’s approval they essential destroyed the original legislation while doubling the tax credit for corporations. You will recall this is the School Voucher Bill that grew out of a seven page agreed upon flexibility bill that was switched into a twenty-eight page school voucher bill which no one had an opportunity to debate or study before it was passed in the Alabama Senate. The new bill will specify that no school would be required to accept a student from a school designated as failing. Also one of the major changes was to double from 50% of the current bill to 100% of the amount of the state tax credit a corporation could take for donating to a scholarship granting organization under the law.
Under the original law, which was jammed through the legislation February 28th by the Republican leadership, it’s goal was to enable students in failing schools to transfer to another public school or private school. The new bill stops that law and undermines that very goal.
It still allows parents of children zoned for failing schools to receive a tax credit to help pay to attend a private school or another public school. However the new bill did not address the issue of whether students already in private schools would be eligible for the tax credit if they are zoned for a failing public school. The State Department of Education has interrupted the existing law to mean that private school students are not eligible, however the law is still unclear on this matter.
This new version of the bill would provide that when a tax credit is issued for a student transferring from ” failing school ” , that the ” failing school” would receive an amount equaling 20% of the average per pupil per funding provided by the state. It is my hope that Governor Bentley will provide some executive amendments to this law that would prevent our public dollars from being used to pay for private schools.
We are working hard to pass a bill which will provide additional money to help with the tornado disaster that stuck our state. The Alabama House of Representatives have already passed the bill and the Alabama Senate will hopefully be taking up passing it on the last day.
During this past week the Republican Super Majority created a new liability insurance program with 5 million dollars of state tax payers money. Many people felt that these Senators voted to waste the 5 million of tax payers money by setting up a new state government program to compete with AEA’s private liability benefit. I believed it was more important to spend the money for text books than for a new insurance program. As such, I voted against creating a new government insurance program that cost the tax payers a minimum of 5 million dollars each year. I believe we should get more money into the class rooms to help our students and our educators.
This past week I also offered an amendment to raise the education pay raise from 2%, which only applies to current K-12 educators , to a 5% across the board raise for both active and retired teachers. It was a raise that we could afford without cutting money to the classrooms or textbooks. However, the GOP Super Majority voted it down and kept the raise at 2% and only for current K-12 educators. My proposed 5% raise would have applied to current K-12 employees, two year school employees, and a cost of living raise for retirees and support personnel. You will recall in 2011 the legislature raised the education employees contribution to their pension fund from 5% to 7.5%, so teachers have been taking a 2.5% cut each year. They are paying more and getting less and I think this is wrong. You may rest assured that I will continue to support our public schools and teachers, both active and retired.
Our Senate District received some good news this past week when Tullahoma Industries in Brilliant was awarded another new contract which will be a great economic incentive for our area. Tullahoma recently received a $180 million dollar contract over a 5 year period to produce combat trousers for the U.S. Army. This second contract follows closely after a previous contract which awarded $25.5 million to Tullahoma for Army combat uniform trousers. These will be new jobs in our area and they are most welcomed. Congratulations goes out to the C3, Mayor and City Council of Brilliant and especially the fine work force that we have in this area.
It was certainly a lot of fun to attend the 40th Annual Senior Citizen’s Appreciation Dinner this past Friday at the Florence Lauderdale Coliseum. As you know NCOLG does a good job working with our Department of Aging Services for our five county area. There were so many friends that it was hard for me to continue the rest of my schedule for that day. A lot of door prizes were given away and Shannon Knight, of Guin did a super job as the Master of Ceremonies. He has one of the finest singing voices around. It was also a time for me to be able to report on our SenioRx Program, which is entering into its 15th continues year providing free prescription drugs to our seniors and has now given away $300 million dollars of free prescription drugs. If you know of someone who does not have prescription drug coverage and\or is in need of discounts for the medicine they do purchase, please call 1-800-age-line, ( 1-800-243-5463) to receive a comprehensive package of information from the Alabama Department of Senior Services. My good friend Neal Morrison does such a fine job helping head up that agency. We are fortunate to have such a strong and healthy senior population which volunteers their time from Foster Grandparents to helpers who assist as reading instructors at our local schools. I appreciate the continuing contribution of our seniors.
I also enjoyed being in Moulton, Hamilton and Tuscumbia giving out Alabama Forestry checks to our fine local volunteer fire departments. They do such a great job for our area, protecting both our lives and property.
As you know with the return of warm weather it has allowed many paving and re-surfacing projects as well as bridge replacements throughout our Senate District. While it is a small inconvenience to be stopped or slowed down when you encounter one of these projects, it is really a small price to pay for the greater safety and convenience that these improved roads will create. You may rest assured that I will continue to fight hard to bring our tax dollars back home to be wisely invested in our Senate District.
Let me thank all of you for the many cards, letters, phone calls and e-mails I’ve gotten regarding your views on the issues facing us here in Alabama. Please continue to contact me at the following address.
Roger H. Bedford, Jr.
Alabama State House
11 S. Union Street, Suite 738
Montgomery, Alabama 36130
Phone 334-242-7862, Fax 334-242-9202
Russellville Office
P.O. Box 370
Russellville, Alabama 35653
Phone 256-332-6966 Fax 256-332-6967
Email:
senbedford@aol.com
Website:
—
Amanda Hovater
Assistant
Roger H. Bedford, Jr.
Alabama State Senator District 6
Roger Bedford & Assoc., P.C.
Attorney at Law
P.O. Box 370
Russellville, Alabama 35653
(256) 332-6966 – Direct Line Russellville Office
(256) 332-2880 – Law Firm
(256) 332-6967 – Facsimile
(334) 242-7862 – Montgomery Office
AHovater.RBA@gmail.com
Copyright: http://www.49countynews.net
5/18/2013 – UPDATE! WINNERS ANNOUNCED! – Hamilton Bassmasters 29th Annual Youth Fishing Contest @ Marion County Lake – May 18, 2013
5 -6 -7 year old
1st Place – Hunter Colburn
2nd Place – Ethan Bustos
3rd Place – Kyra Casey
Competing in this category:
Jesse Allen
Dylan Cummings
Selby Henson
Jake C. Kelly
Reagan LeDuke
Hayden Merchant
Abigail Raper
Chloe Ray
Marcus Young
Nicholas Young
Jacob Allen
Jon Isaac Pharr
Ashlen Kendrick
8 – 9 – 10 yr old
1st – Ross Bozeman
2nd – Jordan Nichols
3rd – Haley Brasseal
Competing in this category:
Seth Baird
Britton Goggans
Cassie Hardy
Lane Harris
Kailee Merchant
Carson Miles
Rebecca Norris
Samuel Ray
Montana White
11 – 12 – 13 yr old
1st – Levi Raper
2nd – Ethan Compton
3rd – Alahna Smith
Competing in this category:
Shane Channell
Payton Engle
July Hardy
Joe Hardy
E.J. Nixon
Colin Walker
Matthew Walker
Hunter Webb
Gunner Seahorn
05/18/2013 – Wayne`s Movie Reviews – Star Trek – Into Darkness
As a semi-Trekkie looking at the new Star Trek movie, I seem to have a problem with this theory of an alternate timeline. The only thing that these two movies have in common with the Star Trek universe is the names. I realize that over time the different series have used the alternate time line theory in the story line but at least with those the character’s appearance stays some what consistent. A Klingon looks like a Klingon, a Romulan looks like a Romulan and so on. The 2009 Star Trek and the 2013 Star Trek – Into Darkness both were good movies. Both had excellent special FX and a great story lines but lacked the look and feel of a traditional Star Trek. I do not say this to take away from their theatrical value as they are both excellent movies! Speaking to Star Trek fans of the Original Series, Star Trek Enterprise, Deep Space 9 , Star Trek TNG and Star Trek Voyager……… Don’t go to see Star Trek Into Darkness expecting to see anything close to what you’re used to but do expect an excellent movie in its own right!
05/18/2013 – Actor, Steve Forrest Dies at Age 88
Actor Steve Forrest
Born
William Forrest Andrews
Sep. 29th, 1924 – Huntsville, Texas
Died
May, 18th, 2013 – Thousand Oaks, California*
Copyright: http://www.49countynews.news
05/15/2013 – Marion County, AL Sheriff’s Department Weekly Report – Sheriff Kevin Williams
1 – DC-Alias
1 – DUI
2 – Public Intoxication
1 – Drug Paraphernalia
1 – Probation Violation
1 – Violation Release Order
FELONIES
Name: Jeremy Prescott
Age: 37
Address-City: Winfield, AL
Charges:
Attempted Manufacture
Assault 2nd
Paraphernalia
Date of Arrest: 05/14/13
Amount of Bond: $18,000
Date of Release: In Jail
Arresting Agency: County
Name: Angel Wallace
Age: 29
Address-City: Guin, AL
Charges:
Paraphernalia
Attempt to Manufacture
Date of Arrest: 05/14/2013
Amount of Bond: $8,000
Date of Release: In Jail
Arresting Agency: County
Name: Gary Conway
Age: 48
Address-City: Winfield, AL
Charges:
Forged Instrument 2nd x 2
Date of Arrest: 05/09/2013
Amount of Bond: $10,000
Date of Release: In Jail
Arresting Agency: County
Name: Brandon Hayes
Age: 26
Address-City: Detroit, AL
Charges:
Theft of Property 1st
Criminal Trespass 3rd
Date of Arrest: 05/13/2013
Amount of Bond: $6,500
Date of Release: In Jail
Arresting Agency: Guin
Name: Joseph E. Cockrell
Age: 17
Address-City: Anniston, AL
Charges:
Burglary 3rd
Theft of Property 1st
Date of Arrest: 05/08/2013
Amount of Bond: $10,000
Date of Release: In Jail
Arresting Agency: Hamilton
Name: J.B. Higgins
Age: 17
Address-City: Anniston, AL
Charges:
Burglary 3rd
Theft of Property 1st
Date of Arrest: 05/08/2013
Amount of Bond: $10,000
Date of Release: In Jail
Arresting Agency: County
Name: Kimberly Lambert
Age: 26
Address-City: Birmingham, AL
Charges:
Grand Jury Indictment / Escape 2nd
Destruction State Property
Criminal Mischief 3rd
Date of Arrest: 05/13/2013
Amount of Bond: $10,000
Date of Release: In Jail
Arresting Agency: County
Name: Dylan Frederick
Age: 22
Address-City: Hamilton, AL
Charges:
Marijuana 1st
Paraphernalia
Date of Arrest: 05/14/2013
Amount of Bond: $10,500
Date of Release: In Jail
Arresting Agency: County
(All persons charged with a crime are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The charges are merely an accusation unless otherwise stated.)
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