GADSDEN, AL--(Marketwire - May 28, 2009) - Albert Burney Auction Company won all three awards for multi-color real estate auction brochures in the recent National Auctioneers Association competition. The company, which auctions high-end real estate nationwide, won the national association's top prize for Auction Printed Materials, Multi-Color in all three real estate categories: Commercial Real Estate, Farm Real Estate and Residential Real Estate.

Albert Burney was the only Alabama auction company to win awards in the competition. The competition for the residential and farm auction categories was especially intense, according to Chris Longly, deputy executive director of the NAA. "The residential and farm real estate auction printed material categories were the most competitive this year, with more entries than any of the other 100 categories," said Longly. "Well-designed, effective marketing materials are critical when you're selling high-end real estate. We take a lot of pride in our marketing materials across the board, and I believe these awards reflect that. Our designer, Malcolm Howard, not only did an excellent job with the designs, but also provided the photography," said Warren Ward, president of Albert Burney.

The Southern Banc Company, Inc. Declares No Dividend in the Fourth Quarter 2009

GADSDEN, Ala.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Board of Directors of The Southern Banc Company, Inc. (OTCBB: SRNN) has announced that it will not pay a dividend in its fiscal fourth quarter of 2009. The decision not to pay a dividend reflects the Board’s conservative management approach and desire to preserve capital in the current national economic uncertainty. While the Board believes that the Company is more than adequately capitalized at over 14%, the Board will continue to evaluate the Company’s earnings and capital plan to determine the future payment of dividends.

According to President Gates Little, the Board “considered the payment of dividends in excess of the earnings of the company to be against the best interest of the shareholders, regardless of the large amount of capital the Company holds. We remain a safe and sound company and believe that preservation of capital is the only prudent path to follow.”

The Company’s sole holding, The Southern Bank Company, maintains capital levels well in excess of those considered to be “Well Capitalized.”

Information contained in this press release, other than historical information, may be considered forward-looking in nature and is subject to various risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those anticipated, estimated or expected.

The Southern Bank Company has four offices located in Gadsden, Albertville, Guntersville, and Centre, Alabama. Additional information about our banking services and the Company is available on our website, http://www.sobanco.com.

Dennis and Debbie Harker were at home Thursday night when the storm hit. "Dennis was watching t.v. when stuff started hitting windows hard, he started yelling at me to get down. It sounded like a big train coming down (the river). Then I hear a big 'BAM' as I ran out of my office." commented Debbie Harker about the storm. The Harker's had several trees down in there yard, including two massive pine trees that pierced the roof of their house. Dennis Harker watching as the crane pulled the tree from his roof, smiled and said "we're still going to race tonight." The Harker's own Green Valley Speedway with is having a scheduled race tonight. The damage was down on Bridgepoint road in Southside which is a located on the Coosa River.

Local jurisdictions responded to severe weather throughout Etowah County on Thursday, April 2, 2009.

     In Southside four homes and two vehicles were damaged on Lakefront Circle. Numerous trees and power lines were also reported down on several roads and streets in the Southside area.

     On Centre Road a tree was blown into a mobile home and on Alford’s Bend Road in Hokes Bluff a carport was blown approximately 40 yards away from its structure.

     Approximately 45 reports of trees down across the county along with numerous power outages were reported to EMA.

     Throughout Etowah County Volunteer Fire Departments along with jurisdictional public works and street departments cleared roadways.

     At 10:22 p.m. a wind gust of 42 mph was reported in downtown Gadsden and in North Gadsden a wind gust of 56 mph was recorded at 10:28 p.m.

     Any damage to homes should be reported to the Gadsden/Etowah County EMA at 256-549-4575.

CENTER STAGE READIES FOR JUNE OPEN

Dana Loconto's dream is nearing completion in Rainbow City. It's been a long journey but, what could be the "South's Premier Entertainment Complex" has an opening date of June. A comedy act will come in to town to kick the month off which is a deal that Mr. Laconto and Bruce Ayers of Birmingham's Comedy Club worked out (the act will come in a perform the night before they come into the Stardome). A lot of speculation is out there on who the first music act will be. Nothing is in stone as of yet. The interior of the facility is quite impressive and still a work in progress. Balcony seating, a kitchen, offices and of course the main stage are getting the final touches. For more information you can go to their website at www.centerstagegadsden.com

Shelby Announces Transportation Funding for North Alabama; Gadsden to get $137,000 for community buses.

U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), a senior member of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Subcommittee, today announced funding for several projects in North Alabama included in the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009. Following today’s action by the Senate, the legislation will now go to the President for his signature.

Marshall County Vehicle Replacement for Seniors and the Mentally Disabled - $285,000
The Association for Retarded Citizens and the Council on Aging will use this funding to transport the elderly and mentally handicapped to and from their centers.

“While Marshall County is a growing retirement area, it is also mountainous and can be dangerous to drive around,” said Shelby. “It is important that the elderly and handicapped have access to safe transportation to and from the programs that they enjoy.”

Alabama Senior Transportation Program - $950,000
Many seniors no longer drive and have little access to public transportation. As the need for efficient and affordable transportation grows, Alabama’s elderly population increasingly needs assistance in going from one place to the next.

“Many of our state’s seniors are without the resources necessary to drive to their medical visits, the grocery store, or to see family and friends,” said Shelby. “This program provides the essential service of helping Alabama’s elderly get where they need to go.”

In addition, the bill provides funding for the following projects included in Safe, Accountable, Flexible and Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), the Highway and Transit Reauthorization Bill:

Cummings Research Park Intermodal Center - $1.372 Million
These funds will be used to construct an Intermodal facility in Cummings Research Park.

“The Intermodal Center at Cummings Research Park is a necessary addition to meet the needs of this new research park,” said Shelby. “The Center will integrate multiple modes of transportation, serve as a regional transit transfer facility and address traffic safety issues in and around the research park.”

University of Alabama in Huntsville Intermodal Facility - $1.646 Million
UAH will use this funding to construct an Intermodal facility on campus.

“The southern part of UAH’s campus continues to grow,” said Shelby. “Additional space is integral to accommodate the needs of the students and researchers who will use the new campus research facilities.”

University of Alabama in Huntsville Transportation, Infrastructure and Logistics Research - $500,000
These funds will enhance UAH’s office of Transportation, Infrastructure and Logistics work on assessing and improving transportation logistics in the state of Alabama.

“The Transportation, Infrastructure and Logistics Research office works to increase economic growth in Alabama by identifying the need for and supporting the development of infrastructure in the state,” said Shelby. “A strong infrastructure is a critical component of a community’s ability to attract new businesses and jobs. This project’s efforts will contribute to the long-term economic growth of our state.”

U.S. Space and Rocket Center Tramway Extension - $274,000
The Space and Rocket Center will use this funding to extend the tramway at the Center in Huntsville.

“The tramway at the Space and Rocket Center will connect the botanical gardens to the museum complex, allowing tourists convenient access to both attractions,” said Shelby.

City of Gadsden Community Buses - $137,000
This funding will be used for improvements to the City of Gadsden’s bus system.

“As more and more Alabamians grow concerned with the rising cost of gasoline, public transportation is an increasingly important resource,” said Shelby. “Buses are an effective way to save money and still travel quickly and conveniently. This funding will allow Gadsden residents to rely on their public transportation system.”

AKRON, Ohio, Feb. 18 -- The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company today reported fourth quarter and full year 2008 results and detailed actions to address market challenges in a much weaker economy.

Goodyear's fourth quarter 2008 sales were $4.1 billion, down from $5.2 billion in the 2007 quarter, despite increases in Goodyear-branded market share. The company's net loss was $330 million ($1.37 per share), compared with net income of $52 million (23 cents per share) in the 2007 quarter. All per share amounts are diluted.

"Given lower industry demand, we are taking aggressive action, reducing tire production, cutting costs and adjusting investments to better match market conditions," said Robert J. Keegan, chairman and chief executive officer.

"The many positive actions we took and the results we achieved in 2008 provide a base from which we will address the market challenges we will inevitably face in 2009," he said.

Consistent with Goodyear's ongoing strategies, Keegan announced actions in three key areas to address the economic environment in 2009.

Top Line Growth: The company plans an unprecedented number of new product launches in 2009, with more than 50 new tires being introduced globally. Targeted to key segments, these include the new Assurance Fuel Max tire introduced earlier this month in North America and more recently announced as original equipment on the new Chevrolet Volt electric vehicle. Significant launches that showcase Goodyear's innovative new products will be made across all geographic regions.

Cost Reductions: Goodyear plans to further reduce costs by approximately $700 million in 2009 and has therefore raised its four-point cost savings plan target to $2.5 billion. Actions include:

-- Further reducing personnel levels by nearly 5,000 in addition to almost 4,000 reductions in the second half of 2008 and freezing salaries. -- Implementing new cost control policies to eliminate non-essential discretionary spending. -- Purchasing actions to lower the cost of both raw materials and indirect materials.

In addition, Goodyear plans to eliminate between 15 million and 25 million units of additional manufacturing capacity worldwide over the next two years. Managing for Cash: The company plans to implement a number of cash flow actions in 2009, including:

-- Cutting capital expenditures to between $700 million and $800 million. -- Reducing inventory levels by more than $500 million. -- Pursuing the sale of non-core assets.

"Collectively, these actions address the new economic realities," said Keegan. "We will remain flexible and are prepared to take additional actions if market conditions warrant. Our goal is to ensure Goodyear is positioned for success when tire markets recover."

Goodyear's fourth quarter 2008 sales were $4.1 billion, compared with $5.2 billion in the 2007 quarter. The 2008 sales reflect the $774 million negative impact resulting from a 19 percent reduction in tire volume due to a rapid deterioration in industry demand around the world during the quarter and the $375 million negative impact of foreign currency translation. Sales benefited from pricing and mix improvements, which drove revenue per tire, excluding the impact of foreign currency translation, up 9 percent over the 2007 quarter.

Also impacting the change in sales was the 2007 divestiture of the company's T&WA tire mounting business, which contributed sales of $158 million in the fourth quarter of 2007.

The fourth quarter segment operating loss was $159 million in 2008. This compares to segment operating income of $312 million in the 2007 period.

The segment operating loss in the fourth quarter of 2008 reflected lower unit sales, which drove a negative volume impact of $154 million and under- absorbed fixed costs of $213 million. Higher raw material costs, which increased 28 percent, or approximately $350 million, more than offset improved pricing and product mix of $263 million.

Sales, administrative and general expenses declined $134 million compared to the 2007 quarter, reflecting foreign currency translation, lower compensation-related expense and cost savings programs.

The fourth quarter 2008 net loss was $330 million ($1.37 per share). This compares to net income of $52 million (23 cents per share) in the 2007 fourth quarter. All per share amounts are diluted.

The 2008 fourth quarter included $38 million (16 cents per share) in after-tax charges for rationalizations, a $16 million (7 cents per share) after-tax loss due to the liquidation of a Jamaican subsidiary, $11 million (5 cents per share) in after-tax accelerated depreciation, a $5 million (2 cents per share) after-tax valuation allowance related to an investment, $2 million (1 cent per share) in expenses related to hurricanes in North America, an after-tax gain of $13 million (5 cents per share) related to asset sales, $9 million (4 cents per share) in various discrete net tax benefits and a $7 million (3 cents per share) after-tax gain due to settlements with certain suppliers.

The 2007 fourth quarter included $20 million (8 cents per share) in after- tax rationalization charges, after-tax losses on asset sales of $19 million (8 cents per share), after-tax financing fees of $17 million (7 cents per share) related to debt conversion, $6 million (2 cents per share) in after-tax accelerated depreciation and reduced tax expense of $11 million (4 cents per share) due to a tax law change.

See the table at the end of this release for a list of significant items impacting the 2008 and 2007 fourth quarters.

Goodyear made further progress during 2008 on its four-point cost savings plan with $700 million in new savings, including $205 million during the fourth quarter. Savings achieved from 2006 through 2008 under the plan total $1.8 billion.

Goodyear's sales for 2008 were $19.5 billion, less than 1 percent lower than 2007's record $19.6 billion. The 2008 sales reflect the $1.3 billion negative impact resulting from an 8.5 percent reduction in tire volume. Also, impacting the change in sales was the 2007 divestiture of the company's T&WA tire mounting business, which contributed sales of $639 million in 2007. Favorable foreign currency translation positively impacted sales by $383 million.

Sales benefited from pricing and mix improvements, which drove revenue per tire, excluding the impact of foreign currency translation, up 8 percent compared to 2007.

Asia Pacific Tire, Latin American Tire and Europe, Middle East and Africa Tire each achieved record full-year sales.

Segment operating income was $804 million, down from $1.2 billion in 2007. This reflects the lower unit sales, which resulted in a negative volume impact of $249 million and higher conversion costs of $487 million, primarily driven by under-absorbed fixed costs of $373 million.

Improvements in pricing and product mix of approximately $942 million more than offset higher raw material costs, which increased 13 percent, or approximately $712 million, compared to 2007.

Recalls Of Peanut Butter Products Continue

Sparks urges consumers to err on the side of caution by regularly checking the list of recalled products that is available online at http://www.fda.gov/oc/opacom/hottopics/salmonellatyph.html, or by calling the 1-800 numbers located on most product packaging. He also reminds churches, civic organizations, daycares and other community groups to check food storage areas for any of these products.

Peanut butter in consumer size packaging at retail stores is not affected by any current recalls.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state partners have traced sources of Salmonella Typhimurium contamination to a plant in Blakely, Georgia owned by Peanut Corporation of America (PCA), which manufactures peanut butter and peanut paste—a concentrated product consisting of ground, roasted peanuts—that are both distributed to food manufacturers to be used as an ingredient in many commercially produced products including cakes, cookies, crackers, candies, cereal and ice cream. PCA does not sell peanut butter directly to consumers. PCA only sells peanut butter to institutions and food manufacturers. PCA has stopped all production at its Blakely, Ga. plant as the FDA continues its investigation. The Alabama Department of Agriculture & Industries’ Food Safety Inspectors are doing recall effectiveness checks for the products that have been recalled.

Montgomery, Ala. – "Alabama is in the first stages of a real revolution in how to best serve students in this state," stated Jenny Krugman, Vice President, Southern Regional Office of the College Board. This "revolution" is evidenced by Alabama’s advancement in the College Board’s Advanced Placement (AP) rankings.

The Fifth Annual AP Report to the Nation, released today by the College Board, shows significant gains in Alabama’s AP student performance and participation. "Alabama has made strides during the last five years. The state should be commended for its ongoing commitment to improving access to AP courses for all its students," said College Board President Gaston Caperton. He continued, "While there is still work to be done to ensure underserved students are prepared and ready for college, the momentum educators and policymakers in Alabama are building is admirable and should be applauded." "Alabama is dedicated to ensuring all our students have access to an excellent education, and expanding Advanced Placement programs is critical to that goal and the goal of preparing out children for a lifetime of success," said Gov. Bob Riley. According to the 2009 report:

Success on an AP exam is defined as a grade of 3 or higher – a score research shows is indicative of college success and graduation. Scoring a 5 on an AP exam is the equivalent to scoring a college A, a 4 is a high B and a 3 is the equivalent of a high C, according to College Board Vice President and AP director, Trevor Packer. The growth of percentage of students scoring a 3 or higher on an AP exam during high school has had a very steady increase for the last five years and "Alabama is one of the premiere states in the nation because of that huge growth," said Krugman. In Alabama, the 10 most popular AP exams with the class of 2008 were: U.S. History, English Literature, Government and Politics: U.S., Calculus AB, English Language, Biology, Chemistry, Macroeconomics, Psychology, and European History. According to the 2009 report, Alabama is a leader in the effort to expand access to and for student success in AP courses. Expanding access to AP courses provides more opportunities for more Alabama high school students to take the challenging courses offered through the College Board’s AP program. State support through the Alabama Advanced Placement Initiative is 1.6 million dollars in the 2008-09 school years.

The National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI) grant of $13.2 million over six years is the largest private grant on record for K-12 public education in Alabama. NMSI is funded by the ExxonMobil Foundation, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and Michael & Susan Dell Foundation. A+ College Ready, a division of the Montgomery-based A+ Education Partnership, is administering the NMSI grant, which now has recently expanded from 12 program schools in Jefferson County and Montgomery County to 10 additional program schools in Huntsville City and Madison County. "A+ College Ready provides the additional support and motivation that schools, teachers, and students need to be prepared to take rigorous college courses in math and science," said Carol Crawford, program director of A+ College Ready. The College Board considers Alabama to be one of the states at the forefront of designing AP programs and policies to help more students access more AP courses and achieve greater success on college-level work. Facilitating and funding teacher participation in AP and Pre-AP professional development are hallmarks of Alabama’s successful AP program. In summer 2009, AP Summer Institutes at The University of Alabama and Auburn University will offer professional development opportunities for AP teachers and administrators:

Additional professional development opportunities and the complete AP report are available online at www.collegeboard.com . For more information, contact College Board Public Affairs at 212-713-8052.

MONTGOMERY - The U.S. Supreme Court today delivered a major victory to Alabama in the long-running water war litigation. The Supreme Court denied a petition by Georgia to review a key legal ruling in favor of Alabama and Florida that was issued by a federal appellate court in Washington, D.C. last year.

Alabama Governor Bob Riley noted the significance of today’s ruling by the Supreme Court.

“Today’s decision by the U.S. Supreme Court confirms that federal law does not permit Atlanta to take more and more water from Lake Lanier to the detriment of downstream interests in Alabama and Florida,” said Governor Riley. “Georgia tried to pull off a massive water grab, and this decision makes clear that Georgia’s actions were in blatant violation of federal law.”

In February 2008, the United States Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit ruled that a secret settlement agreement between Georgia and the Corps of Engineers was illegal under federal law. The secret agreement would have reallocated a large portion of Lake Lanier to allow vastly increased water supply consumption from that federal reservoir by Atlanta. Had the secret agreement been approved, it would have had devastating consequences to the downstream states of Alabama and Florida.

Last August, Georgia filed a petition with the U.S. Supreme Court asking that it overturn the ruling by the D.C. Circuit. Alabama, Florida, and the Corps of Engineers opposed that petition. While today’s ruling closes the door on Georgia’s effort to validate its secret agreement to expand its water-supply use of Lake Lanier, the ruling also sets a strong precedent to be applied in the ongoing effort by Alabama and Florida to have Atlanta’s current use of the lake declared illegal.

“After nearly two decades of litigation, this marks a key milestone because the legal framework governing the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint River Basin has now been conclusively determined,” said Governor Riley. “The legal principle established in this case should now be applied to validate Alabama’s challenge to Atlanta’s current illegal consumption from the federal reservoirs in North Georgia.”

Governor Riley also expressed his hope that today’s decision will provide a basis to resume negotiations for a comprehensive water-sharing agreement between Alabama, Florida, and Georgia.

“I hope that today’s decision will cause Georgia to reassess its position and provide a catalyst to reach a workable agreement on how the three states can share the water in the basin,” said Governor Riley. “I stand ready to meet anytime and anywhere with Governor Crist and Governor Perdue to bring a much needed conclusion to this dispute. Uncertainty about what the law requires is no longer any impediment to reaching an agreement.”

Schools Challenged by 4-Year Math, Science Mandate

Alabama was the first state to require students to take four credits of math and four of science to graduate. Schools take very different approaches to meeting that mandate.

Robin Gray teaches algebra in a state that was an early leader in setting demanding requirements in high school math. She spends part of each day working with students who are struggling to keep up.

One of her classes is Algebra 1-A. The 9th grade course eases students into the subject slowly, presenting them with more basic material than they would receive in traditional Algebra 1. It’s an approach that Ms. Gray and fellow teachers at Jemison High School here say is essential for those teenagers to succeed in algebra before moving on to geometry and, ideally, more advanced math.

“We may have to slow down their pace, but they become great math students when they’re done,” Ms. Gray said during a break from class. “A lot of the time, it’s a maturity issue,” she said of her students. “They just need another year with algebra.”

In 1996, Alabama officials approved the “4 x 4” plan, which made their state the first in the country to require students to complete four years, or four credits each, of math and science for high school graduation. Other states have since followed suit, with policymakers arguing that higher standards are necessary to gird students for increasing demands from colleges and employers and to cultivate a capable workforce.

Alabama officials decided last year to set an even loftier goal: All entering 9th graders in 2009 must pursue an “advanced” diploma, meaning they have to complete Algebra 2, including trigonometry content, unless their families let them opt out of that mandate. That requirement will mean that Alabama, which has traditionally lagged near the bottom of all states on national tests of academic progress, has established one of the more demanding math standards in the country.

Yet Alabama’s experience with its 4 x 4 plan underscores the challenges states face in implementing such requirements. Different public schools in the state have taken very different approaches to meeting the mandates, depending on such factors as course scheduling and the needs of their student populations.

In some Alabama schools, students meet the four-year requirement by taking at least one math and science class each year, 9th through 12th grades. In schools that use block scheduling, students take extended classes lasting about 100 minutes. They receive one credit for a half-year of classwork. That allows some students to complete four years of math and science in two or three academic years. In some schools, students may not to take math during certain half-year terms, as long as they are progressing toward obtaining the necessary four credits before graduation.

The latter approach in math classes is used at Jemison High School, which serves a mixed-income population in a rural community about an hour south of Birmingham. Students take math courses in 96-minute blocks, twice the length of classes in many schools.

All students at Jemison begin their 9th grade math studies in a program called Algebra for Mastery. They are tested every 4½ weeks; students who perform better move at a faster clip through algebra, while those having difficulty are assigned to slower-paced classes, such as Algebra 1-A.

Under Jemison High’s block scheduling, students can complete the state’s four-credit math requirement by the end of sophomore year. About half of graduating seniors in 2008, however, voluntarily followed an advanced-math curriculum, school records show.

Junior Robby Winegard said he never considered following an easier path. He said he’s thinking of majoring in chemistry at Auburn University, so taking advanced math seemed like necessary preparation. He was enrolled in Algebra 2 last fall and planned to take Algebra 3 and precalculus, too.

“I wanted to be able to test myself,” the 16-year-old said. “I know I’m capable of it.”

Ms. Gray said block scheduling allows her to spend much more time on math topics for students unable to grasp the concepts than she otherwise might. That was evident one day last fall, as she handed back graded tests to students in her Algebra 1-A class. Some of the 14 students notched scores of 100, but others scored in the 80s or lower.

Working with an electronic drawing pad that projects images on a board at the front of the room, Ms. Gray focused on the most troublesome items, for which she called on students to graph points and slopes on the x and y axes. In a traditional Algebra 1 class, Ms. Gray might be forced to press ahead to the next topic, she said, without as much time for review.

Students in Algebra 1-A “are given a second chance at the material,” she said, rather than just “sliding by.”

Placement the Key

At Pelham High School, roughly 30 miles north of Jemison, the approach to meeting the state’s four-year math requirement is different. Classes at the 1,500-student school are 50 minutes long, and students must take math in each of their four years in high school to graduate. The strongest-performing freshman at Pelham, who have taken Algebra 1 in 8th grade, typically take a geometry class as 9th graders. Others are put in Algebra 1 or Algebra 1-A, based on their math performance as middle schoolers, as well as teacher and parent recommendations. After the school year begins, those students can be moved up, into Algebra 1, or back to Algebra 1-A, Pam Hand, a math teacher at Pelham High, explained in an e-mail.

“We have to watch them very closely as 9th graders,” said Keri Ross, another math teacher there. “Are they doing well in algebra, or do we have to back them down?”

It’s not surprising that Alabama’s schools and districts take dissimilar approaches to meeting the state’s four-year math requirement, said Uri Treisman, who directs the Charles A. Dana Center, a research institution at the University of Texas at Austin. Schools across the country are scrambling to come up with ways to comply with rising state math requirements by using a variety of scheduling methods and curricula, said Mr. Treisman, whose center works with school officials in Texas and around the country.

While he called Alabama schools’ multiple approaches “an understandable administrative response” to the state’s requirement, Mr. Treisman said he and many academic researchers prefer that students take a year of math every year throughout their high school careers, rather than being allowed to take a semester or a year away from that subject. Staying connected to the subject throughout high school increases students’ chances of surviving college-level math, he said.

But Mr. Treisman also praised Alabama officials for attempting to hold all students to a high standard.

“The courses they’re talking about used to be the domain of the privileged few,” Mr. Treisman said. “They want to democratize access to math courses,” he added, even if that fosters a difficult “transition period” for many schools.

In the years since Alabama adopted its 4 x 4 plan, many states have raised their demands in math. Today, 18 states, plus the District of Columbia, have established or are phasing in requirements for four years of high school math, according to the Education Commission of the States, a research organization in Denver.

States have also pressed for more course-specific standards in math. Four years ago, only two states had adopted requirements that students take Algebra 2 or its equivalent to graduate with a regular diploma; 20 states plus the District of Columbia have established that mandate today, with many of those states phasing those policies in over the next several years, according to Achieve, a Washington-based organization that promotes higher academic standards. In many of the states, parents may sign a waiver that will allow their child to graduate without completing Algebra 2.

Alabama’s state board of education has also raised the bar with its First Choice plan. That policy will require incoming 9th graders to pursue an advanced high school endorsement—unless a parent agrees to let them out—beginning this fall.

Just 39 percent of seniors in Alabama’s 2006 graduating class voluntarily followed an advanced high school curriculum, state schools Superintendent Joseph B. Morton said. Such numbers are higher in affluent districts, but they dip into the single digits in many poor, rural areas, a disparity Mr. Morton described as “an atrocity.”

In districts where parents’ level of education is low, families have been less likely to demand that their children pursue the advanced high school path, Mr. Morton said. As a result, the choice of a curriculum has typically been put “in the hands of a 14-year-old,” not an appealing prospect, the schools chief added. First Choice seeks to reverse those expectations, and make the more challenging academic path the norm, he said.

The message to students is that “we’re banking on you to do better, and you can do better,” Mr. Morton said in an interview. “It’s a plan to make a really large shift in the [lives] of students.”

While some Alabama schools allow students to complete the state’s four-year math requirement by attaining the necessary credits in two or three years, that is not typical, said Cynthia C. Brown, the director of curriculum and instruction for the state education department. She also said she believes most schools are requiring students to take science their junior and senior years. State policy gives schools discretion in establishing their own course schedules, as long as they meet state requirements, Ms. Brown said.

Implementing First Choice would not be possible, Mr. Morton said, if the state had not laid a foundation by establishing a number of programs aimed at increasing students’ access to high-quality math and science courses.

State Investments

One of those efforts is Alabama Connecting Classrooms, Educators and Students Statewide, or ACCESS, a state virtual-learning program that seeks to help high schools across the state, particularly in rural areas, establish “labs” to run online classes and interactive video technology. Launched in 2006, ACCESS seeks to increase isolated and understaffed schools’ connections to Advanced Placement and dual-enrollment course offerings in math, science, foreign languages, and other subjects. The goal is to have a lab in every high school by the 2010-11 school year.

Alabama also has one of the largest and most ambitious state-run math and science programs in the country, the Alabama Math, Science, and Technology Initiative. Schools that send teachers and administrators to professional-development programs are given AMSTI designation; they get help from roving math and science specialists who provide classroom support, and free access to math- and science-classroom equipment, available at 11 regional offices around the state.

Business and university officials have urged on those state efforts. For too long, Alabama only produced students with top-notch math and science skills “in various pockets around the state,” said Charles R. Nash, who chairs the Alabama Mathematics, Science, Technology, and Education Coalition, an advocacy group of education and business officials.

Alabama’s economy has shifted from an agricultural and textile base to one served by automobile, space and technology, maritime, and new manufacturing interests, said Mr. Nash, who is also vice chancellor for academic affairs for the University of Alabama System. To prepare students for the new jobs, “we couldn’t wait until [students] got to middle or high school,” Mr. Nash said. “We had to start earlier.”

Even with the state’s efforts, getting high school students into an advanced math curriculum is a challenge, partly because they arrive with very different academic backgrounds. At Pelham High School, the vast majority show up as 9th graders having taken some kind of prealgebra course in middle school. Still, their preparation for algebra varies enormously, said Ms. Hand, a math teacher at the school. Ninth graders who take Algebra 1 or geometry are more likely to move on to advanced math, she said.

Some of Alabama’s schools are moving to put more students into an advanced curriculum, even before First Choice goes into effect.

Until recently, only about 20 percent of the 580 students at Bibb County High School, located in a rural community southwest of Birmingham, voluntarily followed an advanced academic path, according to school estimates. In an attempt to change that situation, students in the two most recent entering 9th grade classes were automatically put on an advanced track, unless their parents signed an opt-out form.

So far, nearly all of parents and students, with encouragement from school officials, are sticking with the advanced path, said Kimberly Partridge, a curriculum and instruction specialist who works with the school.

“We talk to them,” said Lee VanFleet, Bibb County High’s principal. “We counsel them. The vast majority of parents have very high expectations for their children.”

City of Southside increases sales tax from 3% to 4%, Southside Water, Garbage and Sewer increases 10%

Sales tax on goods purchased in the city of Southside went up 1% on Monday, December 1st. During the October 13th city council meeting, the Mayor Wally Burns and the City Council unanimously passed the ordinance to increase the sales tax from 3% to 4%. The 1% increase in the rates will be used for the repair and maintenance of roadways in Southside.

Several local Southside business interview we're aware of the tax increase, but a few were unclear that the tax increase would happen in December. According to the Southside revenue department, Southside allowed Alatax, the company in charge of collecting sales tax for Southside, to mail out the notices to businesses.

The full ordinance for the City Council minutes:

Mayor Burns introduced an ordinance that would increase the Sales and Use rates in Southside from 3% to 4% effective December 1, 2008. The 1% increase in the rates will be used for the repair and maintenance of roadways in Southside. The ordinance would rescind ordinance number 0-196-00. A motion to suspend the rules for immediate consideration of the ordinance was made by Richard McGowan and seconded by Randall Tallent. Roll call vote: All ayes. The mayor declared the motion carried unanimously. A motion was made by Don Steward to approve the ordinance as presented with a second of the motion cast by Richard McGowan. Roll call vote: All ayes. The Mayor declared the motion carried unanimously. (Ordinance # 0-009-2008)

In a separate department, the Southside Water and Sewer Board increase it's water, sewer and Garbage service 10% being at the first of the year.

Colonial BancGroup Received Preliminary Approval from the U.S. Treasury for $550 Million in Capital

BUSINESS WIRE)--The Colonial BancGroup, Inc. (NYSE: CNB) today announced that it has received preliminary approval to participate in the United States Treasury Department’s capital purchase program. Colonial BancGroup will receive $550 million from the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 aimed at enhancing the economy by restoring liquidity and increasing financing to businesses and consumers. The preliminary approval is subject to certain conditions and the execution of definitive agreements.

In exchange for its investment, the Treasury will receive shares of Colonial BancGroup preferred stock which will pay a 5% dividend for the first five years. If the shares are not redeemed by Colonial within five years, Colonial will pay the government dividends at a 9% annual rate. The U.S. Treasury will also receive warrants to purchase shares of Colonial BancGroup common stock for 10 years.

Colonial’s Tier I leverage ratio will increase to 9.46% on a proforma basis from 7.29% reported at September 30, 2008. Colonial’s Tier I capital ratio will increase to 12.98% on a pro forma basis from 10.00% reported at September 30, 2008, significantly higher than the well capitalized threshold of 6%. Colonial’s total risk based capital ratio will improve to 17.16% on a pro forma basis from 14.18% reported at September 30, 2008, also notably higher than the well capitalized minimum ratio of 10%.

“We fully support and applaud the actions by the U.S. Treasury Department to support stability, safety and soundness of the nation's financial institutions,” said Colonial BancGroup Chairman, CEO and President Robert E. Lowder. “The $550 million in new capital will enhance our capital cushion and will allow Colonial Bank to meet our customers’ financing needs with additional lending activity throughout our five state footprint.”

Additionally, Colonial plans to participate in the U.S. Treasury’s Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program’s full FDIC insurance coverage of noninterest-bearing deposit and certain other transaction accounts regardless of the dollar amount through December 31, 2009.

Colonial BancGroup operates 347 branches in Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Nevada and Texas with over $26 billion in assets. The Company’s common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol CNB and is located online at www.colonialbank.com. In some newspapers, the stock is listed as ColBgp.

Gadsden State has new President
Bradley Bryne, The Chancellor of the Alabama Community College System has recommend and the State school board appointed Dr. Darryl Harrison to be the GSCC President.
Harrison was previously vice-president for academic affairs at West Georgia Techinal College. He was also Graduate assistant at the U of Alabama's Gadsden Center.

Zeigler Issues Recall on Hot Dog Products

The hot dog products were produced on Sept. 22, and were sent to food service institutions and retail establishments in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, and Tennessee.

The problem was discovered by the Georgia State Department of Agriculture through microbiological testing. FSIS has received no reports of illnesses associated with consumption of this product.

Consumption of food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, an uncommon but potentially fatal disease. Healthy people rarely contract listeriosis. However, listeriosis can cause high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness and nausea. Listeriosis can also cause miscarriages and stillbirths, as well as serious and sometimes fatal infections in those with weakened immune systems, such as infants, the elderly and persons with HIV infection or undergoing chemotherapy.

Media with questions about the recall should contact company President W. Lackey Stephens at (800) 392-6328. Consumers with questions about the recall should contact company Controller Ken Fitzgerald at (800) 392-6328.

Consumers with food safety questions can "Ask Karen," the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day at www.AskKaren.gov. The toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) is available in English and Spanish and can be reached from l0 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day.

MONTGOMERY - Governor Bob Riley appointed seven industry representatives to the board that will help direct Alabama’s new robotics research and development complex that is being built at Calhoun Community College. The seven will join the Governor, Calhoun Community College President Dr. Marilyn Beck and AIDT Director Ed Castile on the board.

The robotics complex, created by Governor Riley, will consist of three separate facilities, each targeted to meet a specific industry need, and will provide training for 450 or more people each year in robotics.

“This state-of-the-art complex will make Alabama the nation’s leader in robotics research and development,” said Governor Riley. “The benefits will be remarkable for our economy, for our workforce and for our future.”

“This is truly an exciting project and these seven industry representatives who accepted the appointment will be a huge asset to the launch of the robotics complex service,” said Castile.

"The faculty, staff and students at Calhoun are indeed excited about the robotics center and the potential for growth it has for the college, for the communities we serve and for the state of Alabama," said Dr. Beck. "We are most fortunate to have the commitment and active involvement of some of the area’s top leaders in the robotics industry as we develop this project.”

Groundbreaking for the first training center is set for Dec. 10 and is planned to be completed within 18 months and begin industry training. Two additional centers will be added in the 53-acre site across U.S. Highway 31 in front of Calhoun Community College in Decatur.

The first 50,000-square-foot facility will provide training for technicians to work on robotic machinery and will be home to several major robotics and automation brands. Each will have a significant space for training and product demonstration. The second site will be used by NASA and the U.S. Army Missile Command for research, development and testing of robotics used for military projects and space exploration. The facility will support these activities with substantial outdoor areas for testing in a variety of environments. The third complex will allow companies to build and adapt robots for new industries. Start up plants will be able to set up manufacturing lines to integrate software and equipment, test systems and train maintenance and production staff for our future.”

Deputy Jason Higgins of the Etowah County Sheriff's Office named Outstanding Law Enforcement Officers of the Year for 2008

At the Attorney General's 2008 Law Enforcement Summit held today in Montgomery, approximately 650 law enforcement professionals received specialized training to deal with situations involving missing and abducted children. In addition to a series of presentations by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children's Associate Director Wayne Sheppard, this ninth annual conference featured a tribute by Attorney General Troy King to state and regional law enforcement officers of the year. He also honored fallen law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty during the last year, presenting family members with Certificates of Valor.

Attorney General King began today's Summit by observing a moment of silence for Department of Corrections Officer Rodney Kelly and the six recruits he was transporting when all seven were killed in a tragic accident last Friday. King then welcomed law enforcement officers to the conference, telling them "how proud I am to get to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with you as Alabama's chief law enforcement officer, and how proud I am of the work being done everyday by law enforcement across the state, the work being done by you."

In a special ceremony during the conference, the Attorney General named Alabama heroes in law enforcement "who go above and beyond the call of duty—those officers who display exceptional bravery and dedication to the people of Alabama" as Outstanding Law Enforcement Officers of the Year. Departments from throughout Alabama were invited to nominate officers for this award, and committees of law enforcement professionals selected statewide and district winners. Outstanding Law Enforcement Officers of the Year for 2008 are:

• Statewide: Officer Kevin Lambert of the Huntsville Police Department;

• Northern District: Deputy Jason Higgins of the Etowah County Sheriff's Office;

• Middle District: Deputy Jason Myrick of the Shelby County Sheriff's Office;

Each honoree received a gift certificate for one of the Retirement System of Alabama resorts and a framed Certificate of Merit from Attorney General King. In addition, the statewide winner was awarded with a gift certificate for a Glock semi-automatic pistol, provided by the Alabama Peace Officers Association, the Alabama Association of Chiefs of Police, the Alabama Sheriff's Association, and Gulf States Distributors which is a provider of law enforcement equipment.

Attorney General King emphasized his commitment to keep the children of Alabama safe, noting his work to pass strong legislation to protect children and to punish to the fullest extent of the law those who would harm children. He told the law enforcement officers gathered for today's summit, "I traveled the state and listened to those who know what was best needed to carry out their jobs in pursuing these criminals. ‘Tough laws' was your cry, and I am happy to stand before you knowing that Alabama has some of the toughest laws of any state in the nation in regards to punishing sex offenders." To assist officers in the enforcement of these laws, the Attorney General's staff has conducted community seminars throughout Alabama, providing intensive training to more than 1000 officers.

"Alabama's children are the reason I get up early and that I work late," stated Attorney General King. "They are the reasons for this year's summit topic. I can't think of a more horrifying call you can receive as a law enforcement officer than to hear there is a missing or abducted child. When you leave here today, it is my desire that you will walk away better equipped should you ever be faced with this type of situation."

The conference featured a series of sessions presented by Wayne Sheppard, associate director of training for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. A retired member of the Pennsylvania State Police, Sheppard held a variety of investigative and supervisory positions, serving as supervisor of the Criminal Investigation Assessment Unit, Missing Persons Unit, and the Pennsylvania Amber Alert Coordinator. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children was established in 1984 and funded by the U.S. Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention.

A highlight of the annual event came shortly after noon, with Attorney General King's recognition during an awards luncheon of those selected as Officers of the Year and special remembrances of individual fallen officers.

Attorney General King presented a Certificate of Merit to Deputy Jason Higgins of the Etowah County Sheriff's Office, representing the Northern District of Alabama:

"On June 11, 2008, Deputy Higgins and a reserve deputy were in route to make a theft report in the Whorten Bend community when they were flagged down at the scene of an accident. Deputy Higgins could see a man slumped over the wheel of a Ford Explorer that had gone off the road and hit a guide wire. He checked for a pulse and found none. Although concerned about moving the victim because of possible neck injuries, Deputy Higgins was also aware of the need to begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation immediately.

Deputy Higgins and Reserve Officer Gilliland got the man out of the vehicle, and Deputy Higgins started chest compressions. The medics arrived and were able to get a pulse before loading the victim into the ambulance. Although the victim died twelve days later, his family and loved ones were very grateful for the additional time they had with their loved one because of Deputy Higgins's work. Deputy Higgins's sustained, superior performance, coupled with his devotion to duty, is in keeping with the highest traditions of public service, and reflects great credit upon him, his family, Etowah County, and the State of Alabama."

Representing the Middle District, Deputy Jason Myrick of the Shelby County Sheriff's Office was recognized by Attorney General King:

"On June 17, 2008, when a person suspected of murder barricaded himself inside a house, Deputy Myrick, without regard for his own safety, entered the house of the suspected murderer to ascertain if officers had placed themselves in harm's way by not being in a covered location.

Deputy Myrick ultimately made contact with the murder suspect and took him into custody without incident. Although Deputy Myrick was knowledgeable of the atrocious act this person had committed, and while operating under the cover of chemical munitions and extreme stress, he treated the suspect with dignity and respect, assuring that due process was followed. Deputy Myrick's sustained, superior performance, coupled with his devotion to duty, is in keeping with the highest traditions of public service, and reflects great credit upon him, his family, Shelby County, and the State of Alabama."

Attorney General King also described the heroism of Officer Kevin Lambert of the Huntsville Police Department, who was awarded as Statewide Officer of the Year:

"Today we recognize Officer Kevin Lambert for his bravery, heroism, and courageous dedication to duty to the Huntsville Police Department and the State of Alabama, in assisting on a traffic accident that resulted in a fellow officer, Fallen Officer Eric Freeman, being fatally shot to death. On December 14, 2007, Officer Lambert arrived on the scene and observed the driver of the at-fault vehicle, who was believed to be intoxicated, sitting on the side of the road. As Officers Lambert and Freeman worked the accident and approached the intoxicated driver, the subject pulled out a small handgun and shot Officer Freeman in the head. Even though Officer Lambert was dealing with the emotions resulting from his fellow officer being killed, he, along with other officers arriving on the scene, immediately fought to subdue the offender and to gain control of his weapon. With the offender screaming at Officer Lambert to kill him, Officer Lambert fought to get him under control and in custody and his gun secured. This is a tremendous personal and professional accomplishment deserving the highest commendation of the Office of the Attorney General. Officer Lambert's sustained, superior performance, coupled with his devotion to duty, is in keeping with the highest traditions of public service, and reflects great credit upon Officer Lambert, his family, the Huntsville Police Department, and the State of Alabama."

The Attorney General honored those who made this ultimate sacrifice during the last year*, presenting certificates of valor to family members of the following:

• Officer Elizabeth Franklin of the Alabama Department of Corrections, who on December 7, 2007, died as a result of injuries she sustained one week earlier when she fell from a tower at the Julia Tutwiler Prison for Women;

• Officer William Eric Freeman of the Huntsville Police Department, who on December 15, 2007, died as a result of injuries he sustained from a gunshot he received while responding to an automobile accident the preceding day;

• Officer James D. Fezatte of the Millbrook Police Department, who on March 29, 2008, died as a result of injuries he sustained in an automobile accident while responding to a civil disturbance;

• Officer Kenneth (Greg) Surles of the Pell City Police Department, who on July 4, 2008, died as a result of injuries he sustained three weeks earlier when his patrol car was struck by a tractor-trailer;

"All of the officers we honor share one thing in common: they all lived and died the same way, as heroes serving the people of Alabama with honor and integrity," said Attorney General King.

*Note: Because the Attorney General's law enforcement conferences are held annually in the fall, some events noted in Certificates of Valor and Merit fall within the 2007 calendar year.

AFC Crew Returns from Hurricane Ike Detail

Four Alabama Forestry Commission employees have returned from Texas where they assisted with emergency supply distribution in the aftermath of Hurricane Ike. Stationed in Beaumont, Texas, this disaster response crew was working in cooperation with a request from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The team served a 12-day detail, after leaving on September 14th. Several AFC crews served on similar storm details in Mississippi following Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

All four men, Derrick Heckman (St. Clair County), Gene Lyons (Calhoun County), Phillip Smith (Etowah County), and Gary Thompson (Covington County) also volunteered for Texas and/or California wildfire details earlier this year.

Montgomery, Ala. – Forty-one Alabama public school students are among the 1,600 Semifinalists in the 45^th annual National Achievement Scholarship Program for scholastically talented Black American high school seniors. Alabama’s Semifinalists are eligible to compete for approximately 800 scholarships worth over $2.6 million.

Conducted by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), the National Achievement Program is a privately financed, academic competition that operates without government assistance. Since its inception in 1964 to recognize promising Black students nationwide, the program has awarded over $91 million in Achievement Scholarships to more than 27, 800 students.

1. Every Finalist will compete for one of 700 one-time National Achievement $2500 Scholarships.

2. Corporate and business sponsors will underwrite about 100 Achievement Scholarships for Finalists who meet sponsors’ criteria.

Alabama’s Semifinalists were selected from more than 150,000 high school juniors nationwide and are the highest-scoring program entrants in the state on the 2007 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). To be considered for scholarship awards, Achievement Semifinalists must advance to Finalist level based on abilities, accomplishments, and potential for success in rigorous college studies. Finalist requirements include:

For more information on the National AchievementScholarship Program, visit www.nationalmerit.org, or contact Eileen Artemakis, Public Information, NMSC, at 847-866-5100 or mediainfo@nmerit.net.

A.G. Troy King to present Southside Elementary with "Safe School" Award

(MONTGOMERY)—Attorney General Troy King will be presenting the Alabama Safe Schools 2008 Awards of Excellence during visits to 11 schools throughout the state during the next few weeks.

The schools to receive this honor are Opelika Middle School; Forest Avenue Academic Magnet Elementary School in Montgomery; Prattville Jr. High School; Prattville High School; Brookhaven Middle School in Decatur; Cedar Ridge Middle School in Decatur; Girard Middle School in Dothan; Pleasant Home School in Andalusia; John E. Bryan Elementary School in Morris, Jefferson County; Southside Elementary School in Southside, Etowah County; and Greenville High School.

"We are reminded of the need for continued vigilance, as we recall the alarming instances of recent violence in our nation's schools," said Attorney General King. "While these events are deeply disturbing to us, I am reassured by the commitment exhibited by these schools in Alabama to keep our children safe in the face of the severe challenges we face today. In my own days as a young student, I remember the stress of trying to make good grades and of dealing with classes and classmates. Thankfully, we were spared the stress of shootings that killed and maimed students and teachers, and we did not have to worry about such horror happening at our schools. We must work together to do everything possible to protect our children from these dangers and fears." He praised Alabama's schools, particularly the upcoming award recipients, proclaiming that their students "no longer have to worry about what your school will do. Your school is prepared, and good preparation leads to prevention."

Attorney General King noted Alabama's progress statewide to protect schoolchildren and teachers. "For the past nine years, the Office of Attorney General has sponsored the Alabama Safe Schools Initiative. Following the nation's worst incident of violence on school property at Columbine High School in Colorado, the Alabama Departments of Education and Public Safety worked with my office to provide the state's public and private schools with resources that would help them create a team of community resources and expertise that are, in my opinion, crucial to school safety efforts."

The Alabama Safe Schools Initiative began its presentations of Awards of Excellence in 2002. This year, an independent panel of law enforcement and emergency response officers, teachers and school administrators selected 11 schools to be honored from among 56 nominations. Some recipients of the Alabama Safe Schools 2008 Awards of Excellence also received awards in previous years and are recognized again for their continued outstanding achievements. The Attorney General's Office will present a newly-created Sustained Performance Award of Excellence to Prattville High School, previous winner of the Safe School Award for 2007; and to Greenville High School, previous winner of the Safe School Awards for 2005, 2006 and 2007.

Attorney General King praised the members of his staff who have worked tirelessly for the Alabama Safe Schools Initiative, noting particularly Director of State Programs Keith Young. He also thanked ALFA and the Alabama Farmers Federation, who have provided funding for the Alabama Safe School Initiative Awards of Excellence since its beginning.

The Alabama Safe School Initiative has worked to assist schools in their safety efforts for many years. In August of 2000, the program distributed to all public and private schools standardized school emergency crisis notebooks to provide uniform guidelines for use in preparing their own emergency response plans. A toll-free Alabama Safe Schools hotline (1-888-SAV-KIDS) was implemented in April of 1999 as a way for students and adults to anonymously alert officials about potential crisis situations. The Alabama Safe Schools Initiative used the slogan "Prevent School Violence: It's Cool to Make the Call" to promote the hotline through public service announcements, billboard advertisements, book covers and posters.

In addition, the Attorney General's Office hosted a statewide conference for training school and community officials to create an integrated crisis management plan. Later, at an intensive national workshop on school safety preparedness, education workers, parents, law enforcement officers, and others were trained to return to the communities and teach others how to effectively handle a crisis situation.

Attorney General King will present the Alabama Safe Schools 2008 Awards of Excellence at the following times and places:

• 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 9, at Forest Avenue Academic Magnet Elementary School

JCPenney to Open Four New Stores for Alabama Shoppers

PLANO, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--J. C. Penney Company, Inc., one of the nation’s largest department store retailers, brings Alabama shoppers even more easy and exciting ways to experience style and quality at smart prices with the grand openings of four new stores on Friday, Oct. 3. The new stores -- located in Spanish Fort, Prattville, Gadsden, and Fultondale -- are among 12 JCPenney stores nationwide celebrating a grand opening on the same day. The celebrations will be marked by ribbon cutting ceremonies at each store’s main entrance at 8:45 a.m.

“The opening of these stores, and others around the country, demonstrates our commitment to serving our customers with style and quality at smart prices in convenient locations,” said Regional Manager Tim Penny. “We know customers will enjoy the stores’ easy-to-shop environment, great merchandise assortment, and exceptional teams of Associates. We invite everyone to come and celebrate with us at our four new Alabama stores.”

Etowah County and AFC Firefighters Return from Wildfire Duty in California and Texas

All Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC) wildland firefighters are now back home from western wildfire details. The final team returned to Alabama on August 22 from the state of Texas where almost a million and a half acres have burned since the first of the year. Beginning in mid-February, a total of 78 AFC personnel (12 separate crews) have been dispatched to assist the Texas Forest Service. Joining crews from several other states, the Alabama firefighters worked with heavy wildland fire suppression equipment (bulldozers) to protect homes and businesses that were threatened by wildfires. In addition to supplying firefighters, the AFC also sent eight experienced fire control supervisors and task force leaders to Texas.

Meanwhile, another team of Alabama firefighters returned home earlier in August after battling wildfires in the Los Padres National Forest, located in the coastal mountains of central California. Nine Commission associates paired up with eleven USDA Forest Service personnel to make up a 20-person interagency crew, while two other AFC personnel served as crew bosses for other crews. Five additional Commission associates served as strike team leaders and safety officers in California.

“So far this year, the Alabama Forestry Commission has responded generously to requests for aid by other states and the Forest Service, sending not only crews, equipment, and individual resources to Texas and California, but assistance to Virginia as well. Any time other states have made requests for firefighting personnel, the AFC firefighters have stepped up to the plate. I’m really proud of our employees,” said State Forester Linda Casey. “In such cases of extreme wildfire conditions, a reciprocal agreement exists wherein the states offer firefighting support to each other. In the unfortunate event that Alabama needed help with wildfires, these other states would provide us with assistance.”

Those AFC wildland firefighters working Texas detail during July and August include: David Davis (Autauga County), Jason Barrett (Baldwin County), Jarred Kornegay (Bibb County), Terry Helms (Blount County), Michael King (Butler County), Gene Lyons (Calhoun County), James “Moto” Williams (Chambers County), Shane Woodham (Cherokee County), Victor Howell (Conecuh County), Milton Ellington (Coosa County), Travis Chesser (Covington County), John Knighten (Crenshaw County), Bruce Bowden and Steve Snuggs (Dale County), Jeff Keener (DeKalb County), Terry Ezzell (Franklin County), Ethan Barrett (Hale County), Jeff Bradford (Lamar County), Mitch Craft (Lawrence County), Joel Bartlett (Marion County), Roy Maye (Monroe County), Johnny Mims (Montgomery County), Ken Colburn and Ken Harbison (Shelby County), Derrick Heckman and Scott Sweat (St. Clair County), and Rusty Smith (Sumter County). Also serving as a situation unit leader in Texas was Lou Hyman from the state office in Montgomery.

The following AFC firefighters who returned from California are also available for interview by their local media: Jason Gillikin (Baldwin County), Benji Elmore (Clarke County), Jeremy Lowery (Crenshaw County), Bobby Matthews (Cullman County), Greg Piland (Geneva County), Dearl Driggers (Geneva State Forest), DeWitt Vincent (Jefferson County), Walter Nolan (Lowndes County), Ken Leslie (Mobile County), DeRon Watkins (Monroe County), and Cary Rhodes (Shelby County). Serving in the capacity of Safety Officer or Strike Team Leader in California were: Mike Older (Covington County), Philip Smith (Etowah County), Karl Byrd (Marion County), Mark Sullivan (from the state office in Montgomery).

For more information about the firefighting and forest management services provided by the Alabama Forestry Commission, visit the agency website at www.forestry.alabama.gov.

Developer Close Out Sale: Western Land Rush in Arizona

358 +/- Acres in Prescott, Arizona Selling in 21 Properties

PRESCOTT, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--J. P. King Auction Company, the nation’s leading real estate auction marketing firm specializing in luxury properties is managing the sale of Western Land Rush Arizona, approximately 358+/- acres to be offered in 21 properties. The auction will take place at the Prescott Resort on Tuesday, September 23rd at 3 pm. Two properties will be selling absolute, with the remainder of the inventory being offered with minimum bids as low as 27 percent of last list price.

The 21 properties range in size from 2+/- to 90+/- acres and more than 1,000+/- acre feet of assured water supply credits.

“This portfolio consists of custom lots that have wonderful opportunities from high-end residential estates and equestrian property, forestland and high-traffic commercial possibilities,” said Craig King, president & CEO of J. P. King.

Located in Northern Arizona, the city of Prescott is a charming destination with deep historical roots and breathtaking natural beauty. Prescott has a flourishing arts community, array of fine dining, unique boutiques and more than 450 miles of scenic trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Prescott provides the perfect combination of nature and city life. It has been rated as one of the “Top Places to Retire” by Money Magazine. Recently, the Prescott area was included by National Graphic Magazine in their recent 50 Best Places to Live: The Next Great Adventure Towns edition.

“Prescott has a small town feel with all of the services of a big city,” said Paul Aslanian, the owner of Western Land Rush. “It is perfect for those who are looking to raise a family or retire.”

Individuals interested in more information about the upcoming sale may contact J. P. King at (800) 558-5464 or visit the company’s web site at www.jpking.com.

Etowah County Red Cross open several Shelters for Evacuee in the Gadsden Area

The Etowah County Chapter of the Red Cross has open several shelters across the area

Gadsden State Community College
Etowah County Rescue Squad in Alabama City
Carnes Recreation Center in Attalla

For more information about temporary shelters in Etowah County contact: Etowah County Chapter of American Red Cross – 256-547-8667 First Call for Help – 211 or 1-866-869-4921 Gadsden/Etowah County Emergency Management Agency – 256-549-4575

AMERICAN RED CROSS RELIEF EFFORTS UNDERWAY FOR GUSTAV

As mandatory evacuations are issued in the Gulf Coast states, the American Red Cross is starting to receive evacuees in shelters throughout the Gulf Coast. The Red Cross has relief operations ready in four states: Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas. Everyone in the path of the storm is urged to prepare, listen to officials and heed evacuation orders when instructed to do so; evacuation orders must be taken seriously.
If you are evacuating, you need to bring important items with you, including but not limited to:

Medical supplies, such as prescription medications and dentures
Toiletries
Clothing and bedding-a change of clothes and a sleeping bag or bedroll and pillow for each household member
Games/comfort items for children
Disaster supplies-flashlight, batteries, radio, first aid kit, bottled water
Car keys and keys to the place you may be going (friend's or relative's home)

This is the largest Red Cross relief effort since Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and in preparation the Red Cross has moved workers, cots, blankets, comfort kits, ready-to-eat meals and more than 200 mobile feeding trucks into the area. The first priority for the Red Cross during any disaster is to provide people with food, shelter and emotional support. Disaster workers are on the receiving end to make those who leave their homes as comfortable as possible in Red Cross shelters.

If you or your loved ones are in the potentially affected areas, register yourself on the Red Cross Safe and Well Website at www.redcross.org, or call a loved one and ask them to register you. The Red Cross provides this online tool to help families and individuals notify loved ones that they are safe during an emergency, which can help bring peace of mind in challenging times.
The Safe and Well Website is easy to use:

Visit www.redcross.org, and click on the Safe and Well link
If you are currently being affected by these disasters, click: 'List Myself as Safe and Well', enter your pre-disaster address and phone number, and select any of the standard message options.
If you are concerned about a loved one, click 'Search' and enter the person's name and pre-disaster phone number or address. If they have registered, you will be able to view the messages that they posted.
If you don't have internet access, you can call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to register yourself and your family. Follow the prompts for disaster information.

If you have not been advised of an evacuation, prepare these items now in case you have to leave. For more information on how to prepare for an evacuation, visit www.redcross.org.

You can help the victims of thousands of disasters across the country each year, disasters like the Hurricanes of 2008, by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund. This Fund enables the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counseling and other assistance to victims of disasters. The American Red Cross honors donor intent. If you wish to designate your donation to a specific disaster please do so at the time of your donation by either contacting 1-800-HELP NOW or mailing your donation, with the designation, to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, D.C.20013.

Lilly Ledbetter from Jacksonville puts spotlight on Gadsden Goodyear at Democratic National Convention in Denver.

Speaking for a fever-pitched crowd in Denver, Lilly Ledbetter speaking before Hillary Clinton and former Virginia Governor Mark Warner Tuesday night. Ledbetter sued Goodyear after discovering that she was being paid less as a supervisor than her male counterparts. The case went all the way to the Supreme Court.

“We are honored that Lilly Ledbetter will address the Democratic Convention,” said Senator Barack Obama. “The fact that women are paid less than their male coworkers for doing the same job is unacceptable in the 21st century and counter to both the progress we've made and our shared values as Americans. Lilly Ledbetter's case before the Supreme Court has once again awakened the nation to this discrimination, and it's time we join together to right this wrong and pay women equal pay for equal work."

“The theme of Tuesday night’s program is Renewing America’s Promise, and there is no more critical promise that we can keep to American women than to ensure pay equity,” said Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Permanent Chair of the 2008 Convention. “There is a clear difference between the parties when it comes to pay equity, and this election could not be more critical when it comes to garnering support for reversing the Supreme Court’s recent 5-4 decision in the Ledbetter v. Goodyear case. As American women are called upon to do more and more for their families with less and less resources coming in, the least we can do is to ensure pay equity.”

One of few female supervisors at the Goodyear plant in Gadsden, Alabama for almost two decades, Lily Ledbetter was consistently awarded lower pay raises than her male counterparts. When she finally learned of the discrimination, Ledbetter filed a formal charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), in which she asserted, among other claims, a Title VII pay discrimination claim and a claim under the Equal Pay Act of 1963. Ledbetter’s case went to trial, and the jury awarded her back-pay and approximately $3.3 million in compensatory and punitive damages for the extreme nature of the pay discrimination to which she had been subject.

The Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit reversed the jury verdict, holding that her case was filed too late – even though Ms. Ledbetter continued to receive discriminatory pay – because the company’s original decision on her pay had been made years earlier. In a 5-4 decision authored by Justice Alito, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the Eleventh Circuit decision and ruled that employees cannot challenge ongoing pay discrimination if the employer’s original discriminatory pay decision occurred outside of the statute of limitations period, even when the employee continues to receive paychecks that have been discriminatorily reduced.

In addition to speaking during Tuesday’s program, Lilly Ledbetter will attend the Women’s Caucus meetings and meet with key leaders throughout Convention week. While Ledbetter will not be making a political endorsement for President, her Convention speech sends a strong message about the high priority Barack Obama and the Democratic Party are making of the pay equity issue.

Senator Hillary Clinton will be the headline primetime speaker on Tuesday night.

Cost of Living report issued by the Gadsden-Etowah Chamber of Commerce

How important is an area’s cost-of-living in economic development? “It is a priority in all areas of development”, according to chamber chairman, Mike Shannon. “It certainly matters in the chamber’s retirement recruitment program. People who move to another area have to be concerned with the spending power of their dollars in their new location compared to the same dollars in their current community”, Shannon added.

At a news conference August 19^th, The Chamber, Gadsden & Etowah County released some of the more critical cost-of-living factors on the Gadsden Metropolitan Area (MSA) versus other MSA’s throughout the country. The survey released today covers the Second Quarter of 2008 which ended May 31^st. It indicates Gadsden’s Composite Index (a compilation of grocery items, housing, utilities, transportation, health care, and miscellaneous goods & services) was 90.9% or 9.1% less than the average cost of all 318 cities/MSA’s that participated in the quarterly study. Eleven Alabama MSA’s participated and Gadsden’s 90.9% was the fourth lowest of the eleven. The average of all participating urban areas, both metropolitan and micropolitan, equals 100, and each participant’s index is read as a percentage of the average for all urban areas.

Chamber president, Tom Quinn said, “Health care which includes physician charges, hospital costs, prescription drugs, lab fees, dental services and other health related charges were well below average in Etowah County. Gadsden’s composite health care score was 83.7%. We trailed only the Auburn/Opelika area in the state and only by 1%.”

The Chamber’s research director, Tim Whitmore, heads a team of interns from Jacksonville State University and Gadsden State Community College that compile prices on the various items and services that make up the quarterly survey. For uniformity, all participating MSA’s are obligated to perform the pricing portion on the same days on over 60 products and services surveyed. Each quarterly study is weighted with grocery items as 12.49%; housing as 29.84%; utilities as 9.94%; transportation as 10.73%; health care at 4.07%; and miscellaneous goods & services as 32.93% of the total 100%.

One example of how cost-of-living data can be used is to compare what a person would need to earn if he or she was moving from the Gadsden area to a larger metropolitan area and the reverse – how much less would you need to maintain the same standard of living if you moved from the bigger city to Gadsden. For example:

· If someone moved from Atlanta, GA to Gadsden, AL your after-tax income could be 5.40% less to maintain your current lifestyle; from Fort Lauderdale, FL your after-tax amount could be 24% lower; from Jackson, MS 3.80% lower; from Manhattan, NY 59% lower; from Philadelphia, PA 26% lower; from Raleigh, NC 13% less; from San Francisco, CA 47% less; and from Washington D.C. 34% lower.

· Moving from Gadsden to Baltimore, MD you would need to add 34% to your income after taxes; to Miami-Dade County, FL add 28%; to Chicago, IL an after tax increase of 22% would be needed; to Newark NJ a 44% increase; to San Diego, CA 49% after taxes; and from Panama City, FL you would need to make 19% more after taxes to stay even.

“When you look at the data on all 318 MSA’s, you might question one or two items or services but all in all, this is a highly comprehensive study and numbers are randomly checked by the ACCRA people who assimilate the data. If costs appear suspect, they will call the chamber in that city and ask for clarification”, Quinn added.

The Chamber plans to release the results, percentage-wise, each quarter to determine if the Gadsden area is in-line with other MSA’s our size throughout Alabama, the southeast and the country.

Figures released on the 10 Most Expensive and the 10 Least Expensive Urban Areas are also made available. The most expensive are in order:

COL

URBAN AREA INDEX

1. New York (Manhattan), NY 220.3

2. San Francisco, CA 170.9

3. Honolulu, HI 161.7

4. New York (Queens), NY 157.7

5. San Jose, CA 156.8

6. Nassau County, NY 151.8

7. Orange County, CA 150.1

8. Stamford, CT 148.5

9. Los Angeles-Long Beach, CA 148.1

10. Oakland, CA 147.6

*Least Expensive: COL

URBAN AREA INDEX

1. Pryor Creek, OK 82.4

2. Joplin, MO 82.5

3. Seguin, TX 84.5

4. Harlingen, TX 85.6

5. Garden City, KS 85.7

6. Muskogee, OK 85.7

7. McAllen, TX 85.8

8. Ashland, OH 85.8

9. Cookeville, TN 86.1

10. Palestine-Anderson County, TX 86.2

*The Metro or Micro areas with the lowest cost-of-living usually have low home prices and utilities. Pryor Creek, Ok’s Housing Index was 68.4%; Seguin, TX was 75.3%; Harlingen, TX was 72.8%; McAllen, TX was 71.3. Muskogee, OK was 68.4 and Ashland, OH was 71.0

MGH Center for Cultural Arts “Art of Competition” exhibit is the 2008 Alabama Tourism Award Winner of the Event of the Year Award

Thirteen tourism organizations, leaders and events will be honored Tuesday night, August 12 at the closing event of the three-day Alabama Governor's Conference on Tourism in Hoover.

The conference brings together industry representatives for professional development and meetings to discuss tourism in the state beginning Sunday, August 10 and ending Tuesday afternoon on August 12. Tourism industry professionals, Mayors and legislative dignitaries throughout the state will attend the conference.

The Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center in Mobile is named the Attraction of the Year; the Event of the Year Award goes to the Mary G. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts in Gadsden for its “Art of Competition” exhibit; and the Brundidge Historical Society’s original folklife play, “Come Home, It’s Suppertime,” is honored with the Governor’s Tourism Award.

Individuals recognized for outstanding achievements in the state’s tourism industry include Southern Living Vice President and Editor-in-Chief John Alex Floyd Jr. who is honored with the Media Advocate Award; U.S. Representative Artur Davis is presented with the Government Advocate Award; the Tourism Employee of the Year is Charles Winters, Vice President of Marketing, Huntsville/Madison County Convention and Visitors Bureau; Executive of the Year is Gene Brett, Brett-Robinson Realty, Gulf Shores/Orange Beach; and the Alabama Tourism Department Employee of the Year award goes to Art Director Tommy Cauthen. Chalmus Weathers (posthumous) is inducted into the Alabama Tourism Hall of Fame. Weathers was the co-founder of the Boaz Chamber of Commerce and he was instrumental in bringing the shopping outlet concept to Boaz.

The 2008 Organization of the Year is presented to the Decatur/Morgan County Convention and Visitors Bureau; Welcome Center of the Year goes to the Sumter Welcome Center in Cuba; The Montgomery Chamber of Commerce/Convention and Visitors Bureau receives the Partnership Award; and the Unclaimed Baggage Center in Scottsboro is honored with the Director’s Award.

Governor and Mrs. Bob Riley are scheduled to attend the awards gala at the Wynfrey Hotel in Hoover.

The awards were first presented in 1998 and honor outstanding achievements in the state’s tourism industry. Each award winner is recognized as a key player in making tourism a strong economic force. Tourism contributed $9.3 billion to Alabama’s economy in 2007 and supported 170,000 jobs statewide. An estimated 22.4 million people visited the state last year.

EIGHTY-THREE PERCENT OF ALABAMA SCHOOLS MAKE AYP WHILE INCREASING ACADEMIC GOALS State experiences an 18 percent decrease in high poverty schools needing improvement Montgomery, Ala. — Reports released today by the Alabama Department of Education show that in its fifth year of Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) implementation, most Alabama schools continue to increase student performance and move towards reaching the ultimate goal of 100 percent student proficiency as identified by the federal No Child Left Behind (NCLB) law. This year, 1,140 of Alabama‘s 1,367 schools made AYP. In all, 83.39 percent of schools across Alabama met 100 percent of their goals to achieve AYP. Equally important, the state experienced an 18 percent reduction in the number of high poverty Title I schools identified as needing ―school improvement.‖ Overall findings are encouraging because the percentage of students required to meet the proficiency rate was raised even higher in 2008. These rates are known as annual measurable objectives and Alabama‘s percentages within its proficiency goals will continue to be raised each year. The national target determined by the NCLB law is for all students to be proficient in reading and mathematics by 2014. Governor Bob Riley, who serves as the state school Board president, commented ―Alabama‘s schools have made tremendous progress during the past few years. Just four years ago, only 23 percent of schools met all their yearly progress goals. This year, we‘ve raised the bar again and saw a decrease in the number of schools designated as needing ‗school improvement.‘ If we continue to expand proven programs like the Alabama Reading Initiative, Alabama Math, Science and Technology Initiative, and ACCESS distance learning, we‘ll increase the quality of teaching and learning across the state.‖ Of the 227 Alabama schools that did not achieve 100 percent of their individual goals, 134 made 90-99.99 percent, 54 made 80-89.99 percent, 17 made 70-79.99 percent, 12 made 60-69.99 percent, and only 10 schools statewide achieved less than 60 percent. State Superintendent of Education Joe Morton pointed out that approximately 66 percent (or 150 schools) of the schools that did not make AYP this year missed it by only one goal. ―The state Board of Education and I have offered suggestions for improvement to the No Child Left Behind law,‖ said Morton. ―As the U.S. Congress considers reauthorizing the law, one change we hope is made will be to consider different consequences for schools based on the degree to which they miss AYP. That way, if a school misses AYP in just one area it is not treated the same as a school that misses it across the board.‖ Morton noted that over 97 percent of Alabama‘s schools would score an ―A‖ or ―B‖ under a traditional grading scale of 90-100 equals an A and 80-89 equals a B. - more -

Determining AYP status AYP designations for Alabama schools and school systems include student achievement and participation rates for reading and mathematics on the Alabama Reading and Mathematics Test (ARMT) – Grades 3-8, the Alabama High School Graduation Exam (AHSGE) – Grade 11, and the Alabama Alternate Assessment (AAA) – Grades 3-8 and 11. The AYP status of schools and school systems is based on achievement on assessments of the state‘s academic content standards, participation rates on these assessments, and meeting the Additional Academic Indicators (AAI) based on attendance rates for elementary and middle schools and graduation rates for high schools. Schools and systems are required to achieve 100% of their AYP goals Each school and system is measured based on the performance of a variety of groups in their respective student populations. The NCLB law requires schools and systems to meet annual goals in the academic achievement of the overall student population and by student groups, including economic background, race/ethnicity, limited English proficiency, and special education. Depending on the student composition, a school will have a minimum of five goals up to as many as thirty-seven goals. Under the NCLB law, schools and systems must meet 100 percent of their respective annual goals in all student groups to be identified as having achieved AYP. As a result, missing just one goal will prevent a school or system from making AYP. School Improvement If a school does not make AYP for two consecutive years in the same component (reading, mathematics, or AAI), the school enters School Improvement status. Those schools missing AYP for at least two consecutive years will receive specific training and technical assistance through the state Support Team, which will help schools analyze their assessment data and develop a Continuous Improvement Plan. School Choice Alabama evaluated 1,367 public schools for 2008-09 AYP status (based on 2007-08 data) – 857 are Title I schools (schools that receive Title I federal funding, the largest single federal funding source for education). This year, 73 of those Title I schools were identified for School Improvement compared to last year‘s 89 schools. That‘s an 18 percent decrease over last year. Of the 137 total schools identified for School Improvement statewide in 2008, 64 are non-Title I schools. Also, there‘s a 10 percent decrease in the overall number of schools identified for School Improvement when compared to last year (153 in 2007 vs. 137 in 2008). Perhaps more favorable is that the total number of schools identified as needing improvement continues to drop (458 in 2006 vs. 137 in 2008). NCLB requires Title I schools identified for School Improvement in Year 1 and beyond to offer school choice to all students. This year, schools identified for School Improvement Year 1 may take advantage of an approved waiver request from the U.S. Department of Education. Through this waiver, select districts have the flexibility to offer students School Choice, supplemental educational services, or both - which ever meets the districts unique circumstances. Title I schools identified for School Improvement in Year 2 and beyond are required to continue the school choice option to all students and provide supplemental educational services (SES) to students eligible for free/reduced meals. Non-Title I schools may offer the same provisions, but are not required to because of cost factors. Parents may contact their local school system‘s central office for assistance.

Sessions Announces $13 Million in Federal Funding for Emergency Preparedness in Alabama

WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-AL) announced nearly $13 million in federal grants today that will bolster state and local government efforts to improve Alabama’s readiness and response capabilities for both natural and man-made emergencies. The safety funding, distributed annually through four programs operated by the Department of Homeland Security, totals $12,767,520. In each case, the program funding levels represent modest increases over previous years.
“I am proud to announce an investment of nearly $13 million in Alabama’s safety and emergency response capabilities. The direct result of this funding will be to make communities across the state safer in the event of a disaster,” Sessions said. “After Hurricane Katrina, we saw the importance of a well-equipped, well-informed response team in Alabama. This funding will allow our state and local agencies to continue to improve and grow their capabilities. The better prepared we are, the safer we are.”

Alabama will receive $11.17 million through the Department’s State Homeland Security Program to enhance emergency preparedness in the state, including operations conducted by the Alabama Department of Homeland Security and the Alabama Emergency Management Agency. The state will receive an additional $264,636 to help provide community emergency training to local citizens. The announcement also includes $1.28 million for mass casualty response preparedness, to be shared equally between four Alabama cities: Birmingham, Mobile, Huntsville, and Montgomery. A Department program designed to assist Native American tribes prepare for emergencies allocated $70,000 to the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, one of 12 tribes selected nationally to receive funding this year. Federal grant programs are one way that local leaders, elected officials and non-profit organizations can secure funding for local community improvement projects. Twenty-six federal agencies administer over 1,000 different competitive grant programs each year. Sessions’ Birmingham office includes a full time staff member to help local officials around the state seeking federal grants. In the last two years, the office assisted in obtaining over $170 million in federal funds for communities and organizations in Alabama. Sessions’ office also publishes a Weekly Grants Advisory, available on Sessions’ website, www.sessions.senate.gov, to make grant information and application procedures more accessible to leaders in Alabama.

Honda Cutting production at Lincoln.

Honda Manufacturing of Alabama has announced plans to cut production at its Alabama facility starting in August to line up with the drop in sales of its light truck models.

Overall production will be reduced by about 10,000 Odysseys and Pilots between Aug. 1 and Oct. 31, the company said in a news release.

Spokesman Mark Morrison said there will be no layoffs related to the cutback. Instead, Honda associates will be given options that include coming to work and being paid to perform non-production jobs, using vacation days or taking the time off with no pay and no attendance penalty.

During the non-production shifts, the plant will work to strengthen its safety and quality programs, Morrison said.

"Our associates who choose to come to work during these non-production shifts will use this time for additional training in safety and quality as well as maintenance," he said. "In addition, many associates will make preparations for the Ridgeline pick up that will soon be built in Lincoln."

Since Honda started production seven years ago, the company has made adjustments - both increases and decreases - based on customer demand, the news release said.

Amid rising gas prices, sales of the Honda Pilot sport utility vehicle, which has a new 2009 model, dropped 21 percent in June while the Honda Odyssey minivan saw sales fall 8.6 percent.

Birmingham Business Journal - by Cindy F. Crawford Staff

Sparks Advises Consumers About “Bad Gas”

Some problems with sludge have been due to the addition of ethanol to the fuel. Ethanol is an alternative fuel being used to supplement our fuel to prevent the United States from being 100% reliant on foreign oil. Station owners have been in the process of purging their fuel systems because ethanol acts as a cleaning agent in station tanks and in motors, which can cause sludge to surface in fuel.

“The problems with contaminated gas should be a temporary issue that will be resolved once station owners have purged their fuel systems,” said Sparks. “It is extremely important that we are able to use alternative fuels. Not only does it help us not rely on foreign sources of oil, but it helps farmers here in the US.”

A build up of sludge can eventually cause damage to the pump filter and allow sludge into your vehicle’s gas tank. If the pump runs slow, for example if it takes more than ten minutes to fill your tank, the filter is probably clogged and needs to be changed. Inform the gas station attendant so that they can change the filter.

For small engines, such as lawn mowers, consumers should visually inspect the fuel filter. If you see contamination, change out the fuel filter to eliminate the problem.

If consumers suspect there is a problem with gas contamination, they should immediately call the Department’s 1-800 number with the store location and pump number. The 1-800 number is located on the Alabama shaped stickers on the pumps.

Looking for ways to conserve energy and save money on your power bill? Alabama Power offers energy-saving tips for the hot summer season:

In addition to energy saving tips, customers can get a customized energy checkup in as little as five minutes by going to www.alabamapower.com. Customers can take the EZ Check Up or the Full Check Up and get customized information on ways to save on their energy bill.

For more information on saving energy and cutting costs, contact Alabama Power at 1-800-990-APCO (2726) or go to www.alabamapower.com.

Car Chase ends in Rainbow City

Tuesday afternoon had a little excitement added to it on the drive. A car chase that had begun on Sutton
Bridge Road just after 4:00PM hit the main drive on 411 in Rainbow City. The suspects SUV went through the red light at Winn Dixie and clipped the front end of a RBC police car while being pursued by an unmarked police SUV. The Suspect then pulled off at the Devita Dialysis driveway and fled on foot until officers caught up with and apprehended him just behind the studios of WKXX. The roads were blocked for a good hour to clear up the mess and get accounts of all witnesses. The suspect was taken to Riverview Regional by the parents request.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-AL) will tour Alabama Power’s Gadsden Electric Generating Plant at 3:00 p.m. CT on Thursday, May 29. Sessions will hear from plant officials regarding Alabama Power’s use of renewable resources such as woodchips and switchgrass in coal-fired electrical plants. Using renewable resources reduces coal consumption and lowers emissions during the electrical generation process. Sessions is a member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. The event is the eleventh in a 14-stop, week-long energy tour of Alabama. Sessions is using the tour to highlight the need for a comprehensive national energy program that focuses on increasing production of American energy, developing new technology to improve efficiency and conservation, and transitioning to greater usage of clean, reliable American-based nuclear power.

Exclusive Interview with David Neal, Former Chief Meteorologist at FOX 6
< Related stories below >

According to a suit filed in Jefferson County Circuit Court posted online by the Birmingham News, David Neal, a native of Etowah County and former weatherman for FOX 6 in Birmingham, is suing his former employer for damages and release from the "Not-to-Compete" covenant.
The suit outlines the following counts:
(1) Breach of Contract, (2) Intentional Interference with Contract and Business Relations, (3) Outrageous Conduct, (4) Civil Conspiracy, (5) Fraud, Misrepresentation, Deceit and Fraudulent Suppression, (6) Request for Declaratory Relief.
David Neal was employed by FOX 6 for eleven years and was fired this past March. He is a graduate of Coosa Christian High School and Florida State University.

Valerie Richardson named acting president of Gadsden State Community College

Gadsden, Alabama – Alabama Community College System Chancellor Bradley Byrne announced today that Valerie Richardson has been appointed as acting president of Gadsden State Community College. Her appointment is effective May 17, 2008. Gadsden State President Renée Culverhouse announced today in a meeting with her cabinet that she will leave her post immediately due to the worsening state of her health. She will be on extended sick leave until December 31. In a resignation letter to Chancellor Byrne dated April 23, Culverhouse cited continued and serious illness as her reason for ending her presidency. Culverhouse has served as president of Gadsden State Community College since September 1, 2001. “Renée and I have been discussing her health problems for a year now and I have been very concerned about them. I know this is difficult for her and I wish her nothing but the best," Byrne said. “However, I am very pleased to have as the acting president someone with the competence, integrity, and commitment that Ms. Richardson possesses.” Richardson currently serves as vice president of institutional advancement and student services at Gadsden State Community College. She has been employed with Gadsden State since 1999 and has served in numerous positions there. “I am honored to be given the opportunity to serve as the acting president of such a great institution,” she said. “I will work hard to ensure its continued success.” On January 1, 2009 Richardson will become interim president of the college. The title “acting president” is used when there is a sitting president on leave. The title “interim president” is used when there is no sitting president at an institution. There is no functional difference between the titles. The search for a permanent president will take place during the spring of 2009. Gadsden State Community College serves students in Calhoun, Cleburne, Etowah, and portions of Cherokee and St. Clair counties. Gadsden State is part of the Alabama Community College System, offering technical certificate and degree programs, workforce training, and adult education.

Gadsden State Community College President Renée Culverhouse today announced her retirement effective December 31. In a letter to Alabama Community College System Chancellor Bradley Byrne, Dr. Culverhouse said, “For the last four years, I have been suffering with several serious and potentially debilitating illnesses…..Gadsden State , its employees, students and communities deserve a leader who can and will devote all the time and energy necessary to keep the college a vital, flourishing entity.” Byrne said, “Gadsden State will lose an energetic and dedicated president when she steps down at the end of this year. “

Culverhouse was selected to serve as Gadsden State’s fifth president in September 2001. Etowah County Probate Judge Bobby Junkins, a member of the presidential search committee that selected Culverhouse, stated, “This is a tremendous loss for our community. President Culverhouse’s leadership took the college to a higher level of growth through education in health care, workforce development, and community involvement.”

Culverhouse strengthened relations with area school systems, improved involvement with community groups and enhanced cultural diversity. Community leader and former educator Katherine Barrett commented, “My relationship with Renée has been one of exceptional goodwill. Her accomplishments have made a positive impact on our community. My best wishes are extended to her for a great retirement.”

Workforce development was a primary focus for Culverhouse, which culminated in 2007 with the establishment of the Workforce Development Partnership in Etowah County. Due to the increase in demand for high tech jobs in Alabama, Culverhouse continued to promote a curriculum devoted to meeting the needs of area industries.

“She was truly a president driven by purpose. I appreciate the great educational relationships that she fostered and feel confident that she will encourage her successor to continue to support our future endeavors,” said Gadsden City School Superintendent Bob Russell.

During her administration Gadsden State developed a much needed Skills Training Division. Since the inception of this division in May 2002, more than 1,000 students have taken advantage of the short term training to improve their job skills.

Culverhouse was also instrumental in the merger of Ayers State Technical College in Anniston and opening the McClellan Center. “She has been a huge asset to our community. The improvements she helped make at Ayers and McClellan will have a long-lasting impact on the Anniston area,” stated Susan Miller Chairperson of Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce.

Fall Semester the new academic facility, Gadsden State Cherokee, will open offering a wide variety of courses. Culverhouse has worked with tirelessly with Cherokee County leaders to make this a reality.

Culverhouse has been a leader in helping the division of health sciences continue to play a major role in meeting the ever increasing demand for health professionals in Northeast Alabama. She was also responsible for creating the first honors scholar program in a community college in Alabama, an increase in hybrid and distance learning courses and wireless internet access for the campuses.

Looking back over her tenure, Culverhouse said, “I appreciate the support I have received from the people in the Gadsden State service area. My husband Charlie and I look forward to remaining here and being an active part of our community.”

She is active in numerous community organizations and is currently the chairperson for the Chamber, Gadsden and Etowah County.

MONTGOMERY—Gov. Bob Riley has awarded a $46,080 grant to continue assisting victims of crime in Calhoun and Cleburne counties. The grant will assist the Family Services Center of Calhoun County to offer therapy, counseling and referral services to crime victims. The center works with local law enforcement agencies and courts to ensure that victims get immediate help and that offenders are successfully prosecuted. “Both children and adults who have been victimized by crime need professional counseling and assistance available to them,” said Riley. “I am pleased to support the work of Family Services on behalf of the people of Calhoun and Cleburne counties.” Since 1998, the Anniston-based organization has been helping adult and child crime victims overcome physical and psychological trauma. Counseling is offered in both individual and group settings and the organization conducts follow-up phone calls to make sure the victim has the needed information and referrals. The goal of the center is to lessen the trauma and feelings of fear, hopelessness and shame that many victims experience. Riley notified Carol Gleghorn, president of the organization’s board of directors, that the grant had been approved. Local funds of $11,520 will supplement the award. Funding for the grant was made available to the state through the U.S. Department of Justice. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the award.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-AL) today announced a promotion and four new appointments to his Senate staff. Sessions appointed Sarah Haley as deputy press secretary, Andrew Logan as legislative correspondent, Ivy Williams as staff assistant and promoted Natalie Patterson to legislative correspondent in his Washington office. Sessions also appointed Carrie Suggs as caseworker in his Birmingham field office. Sarah Haley, originally from Germantown, Tenn., serves as Sen. Sessions’ deputy press secretary. Her duties include coordinating television and radio appearances and fielding media inquiries. Prior to joining Sessions’ staff, Haley worked for Fox News Channel in New York City where she booked guests and produced segments for the O’Reilly Factor. She received her bachelor’s degree in broadcasting and electronic media in May 2004 from the University of Memphis, where she also pursued graduate studies. Andrew Logan serves as legislative correspondent for budget, tax, and trade. A native of Birmingham, Logan graduated in May 2007 from the Croft Institute of International Studies at the University of Mississippi. Logan holds a bachelor’s degree in international studies with a regional concentration in Latin America and a thematic concentration in global business and economics. Prior to joining Sessions’ staff, Logan worked as a research intern at the Foundation for Environmental Security and Sustainability in Falls Church, Va. Ivy Williams of Sardis City serves as staff assistant in the Washington office. She received a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Alabama in May 2007. Williams also interned for U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-AL) in 2006. Natalie Patterson now serves as legislative correspondent for environment, transportation and energy issues. A native of Troy, Patterson served as staff assistant for Sessions prior to the promotion. She graduated from Troy University in May 2007 with a bachelor’s degree in political science. Patterson was Troy’s Student Government Association vice president for legislative affairs and presided over the student Senate. Patterson previously served as an intern in Sessions’ Washington office. Carrie Suggs of Gadsden joins Sessions’ Birmingham staff as a caseworker. She graduated in April from Jacksonville State University with a bachelor’s degree in marketing. Suggs served as a caseworker in Rep. Aderholt’s Gadsden office from 2003-2007.

Alabama Chocolate Festival schedule announced for 2008

Rainbow City Mayor, Terry John Calhoun announced that the 3rd annual Alabama Chocolate Festival will take place Saturday, April 5th from 10:30am until 8pm. "We have outgrown the venue at Rainbow Plaza and are moving to a larger area, the football/soccer field at Rainbow Middle School"

Charlotte Phifer, chairperson of Project EDGE, added " our committee has been involved in several programs i hte city but none with the positive impact of the chocolate festival. It is hard to believe this year will be just our third.

Activities planned this include the "Chocolate Taste Off", a Carnival, and Country Group Emerson Drive. Currently their popular song, " You Still Own Me", is number 23 on the Country National Airplay Charts.

In addition, Alabama Chocolate Festival will also have "the Search for the pot of Gold at the end of the Rainbow (City)." Four weeks before the festival, a clue will be given each Thursday as to where a gold certificate is hidden. This will entitle the finder to take possession of a Treasure Chest awarded at 4:30pm on the 5th. This year's certificate will be hidden in a public place. The value of this year's treasure chest will be just over $6,000 in Cash, merchandise, and Certificates for services.
Additional Information:
www.AlabamaChocolateFestival.com

Culverhouse, DeGraaf; Changing of the guard at the Chamber
At the Annual Meeting of the Gadsden-Etowah Chamber of Commerce, Renee Culverhouse took the Board of Directors position as President from Doug DeGraaf. Culverhouse, the President of Gadsden State Community College, stated that in 2008 the Chambers' focus would be on the growth and support of small business in the area. Culverhouse mentioned that growing up in a with parents who both owned and worked in the small business arena, she understood the importance of the development of the small businesses in the Etowah county area. DeGraaf, discussed the growth of Riverfest and gave the chamber annual report sang to an overture of the "Gillian's Island" theme. DeGraaf summarized the year by saying that the 2007 Riverfest had been the biggest in history.

John McCain 2008 Announces Alabama Leadership Team
- U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced its Alabama Leadership Team. United States Congressman Spencer Bachus will serve as the Southeastern United States Congressional Chair of the McCain campaign. Alabama Attorney General Troy King will serve as Chair of the McCain 2008 Alabama campaign. Representative Bachus and Attorney General King will continue to lead the growing grassroots organization on behalf of John McCain's candidacy in Alabama.

MONTGOMERY—Gov. Bob Riley has awarded a $92,591 grant to help child victims of sexual and physical abuse in Etowah County overcome the trauma of the abuse and begin the recovery process. The grant will help the James M. Barrie Center for Children Inc. in Gadsden continue providing forensic evaluations and counseling to child abuse victims. “No child should ever experience abuse, but those who do need access to professional assistance” said Riley. “I commend the center for their efforts to help abused children throughout the healing process.” The center works with multiple agencies involved in the abuse investigation, including the Department of Human Resources, local law enforcement and the district attorney’s office. The approach is designed so victims only need to tell their story one time to reduce the trauma of having to tell details of the abuse multiple times. The center also has a family advocate who provides information, gives referrals and offers other support for the non-offending parents. Riley notified Chris Haney, president of the board of directors, that the grant had been approved. Local funds of $23,148 will supplement the award. Funding for the grant was made available to the state through the U.S. Department of Justice. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the award.

MONTGOMERY—Gov. Bob Riley has awarded a $23,000 grant for a program that continues to help teens in Etowah County stay in school, make wise decisions and avoid drugs and violence. Thirteenth Place Inc., of Gadsden, implements a program called P.E.A.C.E. – Positive Educational Alternatives to help our Children Excel. The program intervenes in the lives of students who may be at risk of falling into truant behavior. “Reducing truancy makes our communities safer,” said Riley. “I applaud Thirteenth Place for their dedication to encouraging teens to continue focusing on their education and abstain from drugs and violence.” Through the program, youth learn strategies for conflict resolution and anger management. They also learn about issues involving substance abuse and addiction. Parents are also encouraged to participate in the program in order to improve their relationships with their teens and improve parenting skills and techniques. To identify youth who may benefit most from the program, the organization works with the Gadsden city school system’s Early Warning program, a juvenile probation officer, other social service agencies and parents. Riley notified Leon Goodwyn, president of the organization’s board of directors, that the grant had been approved. Funding for the grant was made available to the state through the U.S. Department of Justice. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs will administer the award.

TALLADEGA, Ala. – Talladega Superspeedway officials joined the staff of local radio station WTDR Thunder 92.7 FM Friday, Dec. 14 to raise more than $15,000 during Bake A Christmas 2007, an annual fundraiser that generates money used to provide Christmas gifts to less fortunate children throughout the track’s surrounding region. Members of the Talladega Superspeedway staff, along with WTDR 92.7 Owner and Producer Jim Jacobs and his staff encouraged listeners and race fans on-air throughout the day to bid on once-in–a lifetime packages while donations of baked goods, racing memorabilia and other items such as gift certificates from local merchants flowed in throughout the day. This year’s Bake A Christmas marks the eleventh consecutive year that the radio station and track have paired for this event, and both were pleased that this year’s broadcast efforts exceeded last year’s totals by over $2,000. “We are ecstatic this year’s event raised so much money, which will allow us to make this Christmas even more special for these families in need,” Jacobs said. “We really appreciate the support of overwhelming generosity of everyone who participated in this year’s event, whether it be through placing a bid, donating merchandise or stopping by to drop off some of the delicious baked goods we included in the auction packages.” Talladega Superspeedway President Rick Humphrey agreed. “The continued success of this event is a true statement of race fans and local people in this community who care about helping others, especially during the holiday season,” Humphrey said. “Knowing that this annual fundraising effort helps the less fortunate children in our area means a lot to everyone involved.” Among the items auctioned were official Sunoco race flags signed by the drivers who participated in this year’s UAW-Ford 500 and ARCA RE/MAX Series races, several hats autographed by various NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers, diecast stock car replicas, and autographed crew shirts for various NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race teams. Also hitting the auction block to the delight of listeners were several once-in-a-lifetime experiences, such as Talladega Superspeedway tickets and cold pit/garage passes along with a guest host spot on Thunder 92.7. Of course those who missed the chance to bid on items Friday can still take care of the race fans on their holiday shopping lists by purchasing gift certificates that may be used at NASCAR’s Most Competitive Track. A great opportunity to use the certificates will be the 2008 Aaron’s Dream Weekend set for April 25-27. Featuring a 3-day race weekend format, the Aaron’s Dream Weekend will feature two NASCAR Sprint Cup Series practices and The Birmingham News Qualifying for the NASCAR Busch Series on Friday, April 25, The Birmingham News Qualifying for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and the Aaron’s 312 NASCAR Nationwide Series race on Saturday, April 26 and the Aarons’ 499 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, April 27. To purchase gift certificates or order tickets, call 1-877-Go2-DEGA (1-877-462-3342). For our hearing impaired guests, please call TDD 1-866-ISC-TRAK (1-866-472-8725). Tickets also are available still take care of the race fans on their shopping lists by calling the Talladega

In Tuesday's Gadsden City Council meeting Robert Avery appointment of Roberta Watts was voted down again by the same 5-2 vote. Robert Avery vowed last week to bring up the issue again as promise. Avery did not comment on if he would continue to bring up the appointment again next week.

Avery vows to bring up Watts again, even after the Council tabled it indefinitely.

In today's Gadsden City Council meeting Robert Avery stated he would continue to bring up the matter of appointing Roberta Watts to the vacant position on the Gadsden Board of Education position. The City Council voted to table the appointment of Roberta Watts indefinetly.

Attempts by myGadsden.com to contact Robert Avery on this matter have not returned.

Annual Bake A Christmas Radio Auction Benefiting Area Children Set For Friday, Dec. 14

TALLADEGA, Ala. – It’s getting close to that time of year when Talladega Superspeedway and WTDR Thunder 92.7 FM partner to share the holiday spirit with less fortunate children in the area through the Bake A Christmas radio auction set for Friday, Dec. 14.

Throughout the day, members of the Thunder 92.7 FM and Talladega Superspeedway staff take over the airwaves to auction unique racing memorabilia and experiences paired with delicious baked goods donated by individuals and businesses in the community. The auction will begin at 7 a.m. and end at approximately 7 p.m.

Those who wish to participate in Bake A Christmas but do not live in the immediate listening area may tune into the broadcast all day by visiting www.wtdrthunder.com.

When a listener places a bid and wins an item, they are invited to pick up their auction item and baked goods at the station’s Oxford, Ala. office. The funds raised are used to fulfill Christmas wishes of less fortunate children in the community who otherwise might not receive any gifts at all.

“We look forward to Bake A Christmas every year, not only because we know it makes a big impact for kids in our immediate community, but because we feel fortunate to witness first-hand the extraordinary outpouring of generosity of the listeners who participate,” said Talladega Superspeedway President Rick Humphrey. “It really shows you the true meaning of Christmas when kids come by the station to donate their own collectibles to the auction so that another child will be able to enjoy the holidays. We have a lot of great items this year, and we hope everyone tunes in to support the cause.”

WTDR Thunder 92.7 FM Owner and Producer Jim Jacobs said the funds raised from last year’s auction exceeded the year prior, with more than $13,000 raised to help make the holidays brighter for area kids and hopes the fundraiser will bring in an even greater total in order to help more children this year.

“We appreciate the generosity of everyone who participates,” said Jacobs. “Whether it is preparing delicious baked goods for the auction packages, donating merchandise or services, or placing bids on the many unique things we’ll have to offer, the whole NASCAR community comes together to support those that are less fortunate.”

MONTGOMERY – Alabama’s unemployment rate fell to a new record low in October, Governor Bob Riley announced on Friday. The state’s unemployment rate declined from 3.7 percent in September to 3.1 percent in October, the lowest monthly unemployment rate ever. A year ago, Alabama’s unemployment rate stood at 3.6 percent. Alabama’s unemployment rate is still well below the national rate, which stood at 4.7 percent in October. During the past 12 months, employment gains in Alabama totaled 24,800. “This shows our economy is resilient,” Governor Riley said. “However, the economy does have its challenges.” The Governor pointed to high oil prices and uncertainty in the housing market as two of the challenges currently facing the economy, and he will be once again urging state legislators to approve a package of tax incentives that will stimulate economic growth “Last year I proposed a package of incentives that will stimulate economic growth. Incentives that help businesses hire more workers, that provide tax relief to middle class families so they can keep more of their money, and incentives that make health insurance more affordable. These are important steps we as a state should take to keep our economy growing and to help middle class families,” Governor Riley said.

ETOWAH COUNTY SHERIFF JAMES HAYES DIES OF HEART ATTACK IN WISCONSIN.
SHERIFF HAYES (60) WAS HUNTING IN NORTH WISCONSIN. AFTER THE AUTOPSY, THE SHERIFF'S BODY WILL BE SENT HOME.

ETOWAH COUNTY CORONER WILL ASSUME THE DUTIES OF SHERIFF UNTIL GOV. RILEY APPOINTS A NEW SHERIFF.

SHERIFF HAYES BIO
JAMES HAYES STARTED HIS CAREER IN 1972 AS A DEPUTY SHERIFF IN THE PATROL DIVISION ON THE NIGHT SHIFT. HE WAS PROMOTED TO THE POSITIONS OF CAPTAIN AND ASST. CHIEF DEPUTY. HE WAS ELECTED TO THE OFFICE OF SHERIFF IN 1986. SHERIFF HAYES HAS WON 5 RE-ELECTIONS AND WAS SERVING HIS SIXTH TERM.

HE IS A GRADUATE OF HOKES BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL AND GADSDEN STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE, AND A PAST PRESIDENT OF THE ALABAMA SHERIFF'S ASSOCIATION, AND A PAST BOARD MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL SHERIFF'S ASSOCIATION.

SHERIFF HAYES HAILS FROM HOKES BLUFF ALABAMA. HE IS SURVIVED BY A WIFE AND TWO SONS.

Riley Awards Grant to Harbor Domestic Violence Victims in Etowah, Cherokee and DeKalb Counties

MONTGOMERY— A $120,398 grant awarded by Gov. Bob Riley will ensure that domestic violence victims in Etowah, Cherokee and DeKalb have a place of refuge.

The Rose Haven Center for Domestic Violence will use the funds to continue offering shelter and other essential services for victims and their families. Rose Haven, which has a satellite office in DeKalb County, has sheltered more 5,444 victims and their families since its opening in 1985 and has offered help and encouragement to more than 18,000 others through a crisis telephone hotline.

“Victims of domestic violence require and deserve a place of refuge for them and their children,” Riley said. “I commend the staff at Rose Haven for their commitment to provide basic services and vital assistance to victims during their times of need.”

In addition to its shelter and hotline, Rose Haven provides counseling and transitional services for victims. The staff has a close association with the local offices of the state Department of Human Resources, Gadsden City Board of Education, housing authorities and sheriff’s departments to ensure victims have access to all eligible services to meet their needs.

Riley notified Christopher H. Griffith, Rose Haven board president, that the grant had been approved. The grant was awarded funds made available to the state by the U.S. Justice Department. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs will administer the award.

Ongoing drought forces further cuts in water releases to Alabama River; Effort aimed at improving odds of refilling lakes in 2008

BIRMINGHAM – With extreme drought conditions continuing, Alabama Power is announcing further reductions in downstream flows into the Alabama River, beginning next month. The effort is designed to conserve water and improve the chances of refilling by next spring the company’s five storage reservoirs on the Coosa and Tallapoosa rivers.

“The record-setting drought, and the likelihood of continuing dry weather, make these flow reductions absolutely necessary,” said Willard Bowers, Alabama Power’s vice president of environmental affairs. “Without these additional steps, the outlook for refilling our storage reservoirs on the Coosa and Tallapoosa next spring is bleak.”

In July, with approval from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Alabama Power reduced by 10 percent the amount of water it releases into the Alabama River to support federal navigation requirements.

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate adopted an amendment this week to direct two government agencies to study the possible negative impacts of a proposed transfer of logistical operations at Anniston Army Depot. The amendment, offered by U.S. Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-AL), directs the Department of Defense (DOD) and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to provide separate reports to Congress outlining potential problems related to a planned transfer of logistical functions at the Depot to the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA). Such a transition would give the DLA direct control over the depot’s internal supply chain for parts, including those reclaimed and refurbished for Army and Marine Corps armored combat vehicles. “Soldiers and Marines in the field count on installations like the Anniston Army Depot to get them the equipment they need, when and where they need it. Reclaiming and repairing parts at the depot is a critical step in that complex logistical process,” said Sessions. Information garnered from the reports would be used by Congress to determine if the transition should take place. “It makes sense that the system be as streamlined and efficient as possible. I am concerned that unnecessarily inserting the Defense Logistics Agency into that internal process will lead to a disjointed and ineffective system that might diminish Anniston Army Depot’s ability to fulfill its mission. I am pleased that we will be able to study this proposal to better understand its potential pitfalls.” Although the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) commission recommended consolidation of depot logistics functions under DLA, it did not specify that DLA should take responsibility for internal depot functions that are part of the rebuilding process. Sessions’ amendment was adopted by unanimous consent as part of the defense authorization bill now pending before the Senate. That legislation is expected to pass early next week.

Governor Riley Celebrates Opening of Children’s Place Distribution Center

FORT PAYNE – Governor Bob Riley cut the ceremonial ribbon as he and other local officials celebrated the opening of The Children’s Place new automated distribution center in Fort Payne on Wednesday. Governor Riley announced the city had been selected as the site of the company’s 700,000 square foot facility in September. The impact of the distribution center has already had positive effects on the local economy and has created more than 200 new jobs for local residents. It also marks the first distribution center in the South for The Children’s Place. "We’ve all seen the effects of our changing economy, not only here in Fort Payne, but all over Alabama. But projects like this that bring new and better jobs are making our state the strongest that it has ever been," said Governor Riley. “Any day that an outstanding company like The Children’s Place creates new jobs in Alabama is a great day for the people of our state. We are very pleased the company chose Fort Payne for the site of its new distribution center and, as a state, we are committed to making sure the operation is a great success.” The company has three other distribution centers in California, New Jersey and Ontario, Canada. “We are delighted to have chosen Fort Payne for the site of our new distribution center,” said Mark Rose, Senior Vice President, Chief Supply Chain Officer for The Children’s Place. “We look forward to a great new team and facility playing a critical role in our distribution network.” The Children’s Place Retail Stores, Inc. is a leading specialty retailer of children’s merchandise. The company designs, contracts to manufacture and sells high-quality, value-priced merchandise under the proprietary "The Children’s Place" and licensed "Disney Store" brand names.

Etowah County System makes AYP.

Etowah county system makes the Adequate yearly progress (AYP). Highland School 4th grade class 2006 -07 scored 100 percent proficiency in math.
What is AYP? Under the accountability provisions in the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act, all public school campuses, school districts, and the state are evaluated for Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP). Districts, campuses, and the state are required to meet AYP criteria on three measures: Reading/Language Arts, Mathematics, and either Graduation Rate (for high schools and districts) or Attendance Rate (for elementary and middle/junior high schools). If a campus, district, or state that is receiving Title I, Part A funds fails to meet AYP for two consecutive years, that campus, district, or state is subject to certain requirements such as offering supplemental education services, offering school choice, and/or taking corrective actions.

Etowah County awarded grants from Federal Home Loan Bank for low-income housing

Alabama HFH - 2
Colbert, Lauderdale, Jackson, and Etowah Counties, AL
Member: Colonial Bank, National Association
Sponsor: Alabama Association of Habitat Affiliates
Grant: $240,000 for 40 units
AHP funds will be used for down-payment assistance to help 40 very low-income families purchases new Habitat for Humanity single-family homes in Colbert, Lauderdale, Jackson, and Etowah counties.

Mercedes-Benz Plant in Alabama Celebrates Ten Year Production Anniversary with the 'Edition10' Special Edition M-Class

- Tuscaloosa plant is the cradle of Mercedes-Benz SUVs
- all available with state-of-the-art diesel technology
- Number of employees and plant capacity has more than doubled since
production launch
- More than $1 billion of total investment up to date
- Governor Bob Riley, Chairman Dr. Dieter Zetsche and Plant Director Bill
Taylor celebrate anniversary together with team members and guests

TUSCALOOSA, Ala., July 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercedes-Benz U.S.
International, Inc. (MBUSI) today celebrated the ten year production
anniversary of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class. At the event, Alabama Governor
Bob Riley, Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of DaimlerChrysler AG and Head of
the Mercedes Car Group, as well as Plant Manager Bill Taylor welcomed
current and former team members as well as guests, including government
officials, business leaders, and local dignitaries.
In his address to team members and guests, Governor Riley emphasized
the economic importance of Alabama's first automaker: "In 2006, the
economic impact of MBUSI and its Tier-1 suppliers was well over $6.8
billion to Alabama's economy. Mercedes-Benz changed the economic
development model for Alabama. It improved the economy of the whole state
and helped to prove that Alabama is the place to be when it comes to doing
business."
"Right from the start, Alabama and Mercedes-Benz has been a win-win
relationship. Since our decision to come here, we have invested more than
$1 billion and twice expanded our production facilities. And that's not
without reason, since the plant produces top quality vehicles that are
popular all over the world. Plus, the plant employs around 4,000 people and
contributes strongly to society," Dr. Zetsche underlined.
"Ten years of production of the M-Class is a great milestone and major
accomplishment for both our team and our partners around the world in
building our products," said Bill Taylor. "This organization has come a
long way -- from never having built an automobile just ten years ago -- to
now building three products that are produced for 135 countries worldwide.
Today's event reminds us what this Mercedes-Benz team in Alabama can do."
"Edition10" limited edition M-Class model
To mark the tenth anniversary of the M-Class, Mercedes-Benz is
presenting the limited edition model "Edition10." In addition to the
regular model, the special edition is marked with "Edition10" badges on its
fenders. The anniversary edition also contains a long list of features and
distinguishes itself through attractive exterior design elements. Customers
can order the vehicle beginning in fall 2007. The model comes with a broad
range of special features already included, such as 20-inch wheels,
bi-xenon headlights, taillights with a sporty, dark background, and special
color highlights for the vehicle body. Striking features of the sporty
interior include two-tone leather appointments throughout, sport
instruments, and stainless steel pedals.
Home of Mercedes-Benz family of SUVs
The M-Class is the pioneer among premium SUVs, first rolling off the
production line in 1997. Since then, two additional models have been added
to the original and best-selling Mercedes-Benz SUV: The R-Class, a
versatile and comfortable SUV tourer positioned between an offroader and a
traditional station wagon, as well as the GL-Class, which is the first
premium full-size SUV of Mercedes-Benz. More than 960,000 units of the
three models have been delivered to customers since 1997, making
Mercedes-Benz the best-selling premium brand in the SUV segment. MBUSI
produced more SUVs last year -- over 170,000 units -- than ever before in
its 10 Year-history.

Local News

Albert Burney Wins Three Marketing Awards From National Auctioneers Association

The Southern Banc Company, Inc. Declares No Dividend in the Fourth Quarter 2009

CENTER STAGE READIES FOR JUNE OPEN

Shelby Announces Transportation Funding for North Alabama; Gadsden to get $137,000 for community buses.

Recalls Of Peanut Butter Products Continue

Schools Challenged by 4-Year Math, Science Mandate

Alabama was the first state to require students to take four credits of math and four of science to graduate. Schools take very different approaches to meeting that mandate.

Placement the Key

State Investments

Colonial BancGroup Received Preliminary Approval from the U.S. Treasury for $550 Million in Capital

Zeigler Issues Recall on Hot Dog Products

A.G. Troy King to present Southside Elementary with "Safe School" Award

JCPenney to Open Four New Stores for Alabama Shoppers

Developer Close Out Sale: Western Land Rush in Arizona

Birmingham Business Journal - by Cindy F. Crawford Staff

Sparks Advises Consumers About “Bad Gas”

ETOWAH COUNTY SHERIFF JAMES HAYES DIES OF HEART ATTACK IN WISCONSIN.
SHERIFF HAYES (60) WAS HUNTING IN NORTH WISCONSIN. AFTER THE AUTOPSY, THE SHERIFF'S BODY WILL BE SENT HOME.

Governor Riley Celebrates Opening of Children’s Place Distribution Center

Etowah County System makes AYP.

Etowah County awarded grants from Federal Home Loan Bank for low-income housing

	AKRON, Ohio, May 29 -- The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company announced today the sale of certain of its Akron properties to Industrial Realty Group (IRG) as a first step toward finalizing plans for developing a new headquarters in Akron. Goodyear has signed a multi-year lease agreement with IRG and, as part of that agreement, will remain in its existing buildings until its new headquarters located adjacent to the company's Akron Technical Center is completed. "Goodyear is pleased to take this important step and to continue the considerable progress achieved to date on the headquarters development," said Laura Thompson, Goodyear's vice president of business development. "We appreciate the efforts of the City of Akron, Summit County and the Summit County Port Authority and value their support." "IRG is very happy to have reached this milestone with the Riverwalk project," said Stuart Lichter, president of IRG. "We are anxious to continue our efforts on finalizing the other parts of the project once funding can be arranged." A number of long-lead projects related to the development have already begun and will be moving forward. These include associated roadway construction projects and the relocation of a major sewer line that runs through the development area. An out-of-service power plant located near Goodyear's Technical Center is also scheduled to be removed. Goodyear will record a non-cash, after-tax charge of between $40 million and $45 million in the second quarter of 2009 in connection with the property sales. Goodyear is one of the world's largest tire companies. It employs approximately 71,000 people and manufactures its products in more than 60 facilities in 25 countries around the world. For more information about Goodyear, go to www.goodyear.com/corporate.

Local News

Albert Burney Wins Three Marketing Awards From National Auctioneers Association

The Southern Banc Company, Inc. Declares No Dividend in the Fourth Quarter 2009

CENTER STAGE READIES FOR JUNE OPEN

Shelby Announces Transportation Funding for North Alabama; Gadsden to get $137,000 for community buses.

Recalls Of Peanut Butter Products Continue

Schools Challenged by 4-Year Math, Science Mandate

Alabama was the first state to require students to take four credits of math and four of science to graduate. Schools take very different approaches to meeting that mandate.

Placement the Key

State Investments

Colonial BancGroup Received Preliminary Approval from the U.S. Treasury for $550 Million in Capital

Zeigler Issues Recall on Hot Dog Products

A.G. Troy King to present Southside Elementary with "Safe School" Award

JCPenney to Open Four New Stores for Alabama Shoppers

Developer Close Out Sale: Western Land Rush in Arizona

Birmingham Business Journal - by Cindy F. Crawford Staff

Sparks Advises Consumers About “Bad Gas”

ETOWAH COUNTY SHERIFF JAMES HAYES DIES OF HEART ATTACK IN WISCONSIN. SHERIFF HAYES (60) WAS HUNTING IN NORTH WISCONSIN. AFTER THE AUTOPSY, THE SHERIFF'S BODY WILL BE SENT HOME.

Governor Riley Celebrates Opening of Children’s Place Distribution Center

Etowah County System makes AYP.

Etowah County awarded grants from Federal Home Loan Bank for low-income housing

ETOWAH COUNTY SHERIFF JAMES HAYES DIES OF HEART ATTACK IN WISCONSIN.
SHERIFF HAYES (60) WAS HUNTING IN NORTH WISCONSIN. AFTER THE AUTOPSY, THE SHERIFF'S BODY WILL BE SENT HOME.