(Updated) Cullman awarded $450K, Hanceville $250K CDBG grants
Updated 11-20-19 at 1:32 p.m.
CULLMAN, Ala. – Gov. Kay Ivey on Wednesday announced $18.7 million in grants from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program for improvements in 58 Alabama communities. Among the grants awarded are $450,000 to the City of Cullman for sewer,...
ADOL begins paying federal $600 stimulus benefit
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Alabama Department of Labor Secretary Fitzgerald Washington announced today Alabama has begun paying the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefit that was established with the passing of the federal CARES Act on March 27, 2020.
ADOL began paying the FPUC benefits on...
Meet Lynn Beshear, new commissioner of Alabama Department of Mental Health
Alabama’s new State Mental Health Commissioner Lynn Beshear / Courtesy of M.D. Connection
MONTGOMERY – Gov. Kay Ivey in July appointed Lynn Beshear commissioner of the Alabama Department of Mental Health.
“I am honored to appoint Lynn Beshear as commissioner of the Department of Mental Health,”...
Attorney General Steve Marshall wins nationwide injunction against Biden’s healthcare-worker vaccine mandate
MONTGOMERY, Ala.—Attorney General Steve Marshall announced a court victory against President Biden’s healthcare-worker vaccine mandate as a federal court granted his motion to block the sweeping and illegal healthcare-worker vaccine mandate.
Tuesday, the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana granted a...
State wants your opinion on ADEM director’s job performance
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Have an opinion about how Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) Director Lance LeFleur is doing his job? The State would like to hear it. Amid multiple controversies including the Tyson/River Valley Ingredients Mulberry Fork spill, about which LeFleur recently and...
‘We’re looking at some pretty dark days for the foreseeable future’
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – “Because the pandemic has stretched must longer than we ever imagined, we’re all just downright exhausted by the disruptions to our daily lives,” said Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey in a press conference Wednesday, “and even though the vaccine’s delivery is right...
Alabama’s Safer at Home Order extended until Aug. 31; masks required in schools
Updated 7-29-20 at 3:05 p.m.
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Gov. Kay Ivey on Wednesday extended the state's Safer at Home Order until Aug. 31, 2020 at 5 p.m. In addition, the order was amended to require masks in "schools and colleges, where possible, for employees and...
Limestone County Sheriff Mike Blakely indicted on theft and ethics charges
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Attorney Gen. Steve Marshall announced the indictment* and arrest of Michael Anthony Blakely, the sheriff of Limestone County, on 13 counts of theft and ethics charges. Blakely, 68, surrendered to authorities and was later released on $49,000 bond.
The indictment includes 13...
Jeff Sessions confirmed as attorney general
Jeff Sessions testifies on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2017, at his confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee. (Source: AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
(RNN) - The Senate has confirmed Sen. Jeff Sessions as U.S. Attorney General.
Sessions was confirmed by a vote of 52-47. He needed...
Reporting of COVID-19 deaths in Alabama appears to differ from other reporting
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Death counts from COVID-19 appear to vary widely based on their reporting sources—the news media, hospitals and county health departments—and there are reasons these apparent discrepancies in the number of deaths occur. “The Alabama Department of Public Health considers any deaths to...
Gov. Ivey awards grant to aid prosecution of impaired drivers
MONTGOMERY — Gov.
Kay Ivey has awarded a $164,421 grant to improve safety on Alabama’s highways
by stepping up prosecution in cases involving impaired driving.
The grant will enable the state Office of Prosecution
Services to provide local prosecutors and law enforcement with the proper
training and technical assistance to...
Merrill: Disregard information sent from Election Mail Service
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The Secretary of State’s Office has been made aware of another third-party organization contacting voters with outdated and inaccurate information to encourage voter registration and voter participation.
The letter, which is sent by the Election Mail Service out of Austin, Texas, encourages...
Cullman area restaurant vies for title of Bama’s Best Chicken Tenders among Flavorful Four finalists
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The 2021 Bama’s Best Chicken Tenders Contest has been narrowed down to a flock of four, with one of Cullman County’s very own making the cut!
Online voting determined the Flavorful Four finalists which are, in alphabetical order:
Bobby’s Restaurant in EvaThe Chicken...
Governor Ivey Announces COVID-19 Vaccination Eligibility to be Expanded in Alabama to Include Individuals Age 12 and Older, Effective Immediately
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Governor Kay Ivey on Thursday announced Alabama is expanding COVID-19 vaccination eligibility to include individuals ages 12 and older, effective immediately. On Monday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for emergency use in adolescents with the...
North Alabama: AFC’S Fire Danger Warning upgraded to Fire Alert, effective immediately
MONTGOMERY - The Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC) has upgraded the Fire Danger Warning, issuing a Fire Alert for 46 counties in north Alabama effective immediately. This order for Autauga, Bibb, Blount, Calhoun, Chambers, Cherokee, Chilton, Clay, Cleburne, Colbert, Coosa, Cullman, Dallas, DeKalb, Elmore, Etowah,...
State Troopers: Buckle up, slow down and drive alert this Thanksgiving holiday
Photo courtesy of Drive Safe Alabama
MONTGOMERY – To ease Thanksgiving traffic congestion statewide and as an added safety precaution, the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) announced there will be no temporary lane closures on Alabama interstates from noon, Wednesday, Nov. 22, through midnight, Sunday,...
Voter registration and ID drive to be held June 28
MONTGOMERY - In an effort to ensure that eligible Alabama citizens are able to vote, Alabama Secretary of State John H. Merrill asked the members of the legislature, as well as all probate judges, to provide three separate and specific days of the week,...
CAPNA awarded $2.3M to help low-income residents with emergency energy costs in Cullman, Lawrence, Morgan Counties
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded grants totaling $46.2 million to assist low-income families in Alabama with energy bills. The grants will enable 21 community service agencies throughout the state to provide emergency funding to help low-income families heat their houses this...
COVID-19: Ivey authorizes use of Alabama National Guard on as-needed basis
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Governor Kay Ivey announced Friday that she has given authorization to Adjutant General Sheryl Gordon with the Alabama National Guard to activate up to 100 guardsmen, should the need arise to combat COVID-19.
There is no determined need for formal assistance at...
WFF holding CWD information meeting at Wallace State Oct. 22
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - This fall, the Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries (WFF) is hosting a series of public meetings throughout the state to provide information about Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), WFF’s CWD surveillance efforts in Alabama and how hunters can assist.
CWD is...
ADOL encourages employees to file for benefits under the CARES Act
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The Alabama Department of Labor (ADOL) is encouraging employees who believe they may qualify for programs under the CARES Act to file a claim. These employees will also need to certify weekly to continue to let us know that they remain...
WIC Program seeks public comment about 2021 State Plan
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides nutrition education and supplemental foods, and serves pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding women and children up to age 5 whose family incomes are up to 185% of the federal poverty...
Undetectable = Untransmittable: An effort to end the HIV epidemic
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) has adopted the Prevention Access Campaign‘s Undetectable = Untransmittable(U=U), a national movement to dismantle HIV stigma, improve the lives of people with HIV and bring us closer to ending the HIV epidemic. Scientific findings...
Ed Henry pleads guilty to theft of government property
Former Alabama Rep. Ed Henry represented Alabama House District 9, which includes parts of Cullman, Marshall and Morgan Counties. (State of Alabama)
MONTGOMERY - On Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2019, former Alabama State Rep. William “Ed” Henry pleaded guilty to one count of theft of government...
Ivey: Grants up to $15K available for Alabama health care, emergency response providers
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Gov. Kay Ivey on Thursday awarded $35 million in Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) funds to establish the Alabama Health Care and Emergency Response Providers grant program. The grants will support providers who have been financially impacted...
Rep. Harbison discusses support of constitutional carry bill HB44
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - In the new legislative session for the Alabama House of Representatives, many leaders across the state have been divided over a proposed constitutional carry bill. HB44 was introduced to eliminate the need for permits to carry concealed firearms in Alabama, and...
Local students bring home ribbons in Premier Exhibitor Contest, livestock shows during Alabama National Fair
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - For hundreds of youth across Alabama, fall fair season means one thing- it’s livestock show time.
That translates to family time for youth like Cole Eubanks of Cullman County, one of about 250 exhibitors to compete in livestock shows during the Alabama...
Congressman Robert Aderholt files paperwork to seek re-election
HALEYVILLE, Ala. –Congressman Robert Aderholt, Republican from Haleyville, on Tuesday filed paperwork with the Alabama Republican Party to seek re-election to Alabama’s 4th Congressional District.
Congressman Aderholt spoke on the prospect of reelection, especially amidst a global pandemic, saying, “I was honored to turn in...
Ivey closes beaches, recommends evacuation ahead of Hurricane Sally
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Gov. Kay Ivey Monday morning issued a State of Emergency ahead of Hurricane Sally. Now, Ivey has issued a supplemental State of Emergency, closing Alabama beaches effective today, Sept. 14, at 3 p.m. Additionally, the governor is recommending evacuations near the...
Senate passes largest General Fund Budget in Alabama history
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The Alabama Senate today passed the largest General Fund Budget in the state’s history. Chairman Greg Albritton (R-Atmore), Senators Greg Reed (R-Jasper) and Clay Scofield (R-Guntersville) released the below statements on the passing of this $2,482,799,471 billion budget proposal.
Senator Albritton, chairman of the Senate...
Cullman High, West Point High, Fairview Middle receive Attorney General’s 2019 Certificate of Building a Culture for School Safety
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Attorney General Steve Marshall today announced winners of the 2019 Safe Schools Initiative Awards. This year, the program was expanded to include three awards for highest excellence in school safety as well as certificates of special recognition for schools building a...
May 11: church services, in-house dining allowed; salons, gyms open
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey on Friday announced the rollout of the next phase of her Safer at Home Order, “Proceeding with Caution,” effective Monday, May 11, 2020. These changes are in effect until May 22, 2020 at 5 p.m.
Key changes include:
Non-work-related...
Huntsville’s Redstone Arsenal to be permanent HQ of United States Space Command
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – Huntsville’s Redstone Arsenal has been named the preferred location of the permanent headquarters for the United States Space Command. The Secretary of the Air Force, on behalf of the Office of Secretary of Defense, on Wednesday made the announcement.
The Department of...
TRIBUNE EXCLUSIVE: Federal judge issues preliminary injunction in Cullman County indigent bond cases
The Cullman County Detention Center (Wendy Sack for The Cullman Tribune)
BIRMINGHAM - On Tuesday, Sept. 4, U.S. Federal District Judge Madeline Hughes Haikala issued a memorandum opinion and order granting a preliminary injunction on behalf of indigent defendants incarcerated in the Cullman County Detention...
Ivey authorizes activation of Alabama National Guard in response to violent protesters
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Gov. Kay Ivey announced Monday she has given authorization to Adjutant General Sheryl Gordon with the Alabama National Guard to activate up to 1,000 guardsmen, should the need arise in response to violent protesters.
This action strictly serves as a preparedness measure,...
Ivey announces statewide online driver’s license renewal extension
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Governor Kay Ivey on Tuesday announced Alabama driver’s license holders will now be allowed to renew online a second time during a 12-year period.
Until now, driver’s license holders were limited to one online renewal every eight years. As part of the...
(UPDATED) STATE REPORT CARD: Cullman County Schools receive a ‘B’; City Schools an ‘A’
Updated 2-1-18 7:18 p.m.
CULLMAN - The Alabama State Department of Education (ASDE) on Thursday released the 2016-2017 State Report Card, part of 2012's Alabama Accountability Act, which required the ASDE to come up with a report card to assign an overall letter grade for...
CDC issues guidance as transmission of contagious Delta COVID-19 variant surges, prevention measures outlined
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - More than 900 COVID-19 patients are hospitalized in Alabama, the largest number since February, and too few Alabama residents are vaccinated. High vaccination coverage will reduce the spread of the virus and help prevent new variants from emerging.
State Health Officer Dr....
Ivey orders flags flown at half-staff Tuesday for March 3, 2019 Day of Remembrance
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Gov. Kay Ivey has ordered flags be flown at half-staff Tuesday in honor of March 3, 2019 Day of Remembrance in the state of Alabama.
Below is Ivey’s directive:
The flags should be flown at half-staff until sunset on Tuesday, March 3, 2020.
I...
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama to award grants to schools as part of its Be Healthy School Grant Program
BIRMINGHAM - In our commitment to help prevent childhood obesity, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama is proud to continue its Be Healthy School Grant Program. For the 2017 -2018 school year, Blue Cross will make available $250,000 and award grants up to...
Breast Cancer Research Foundation of AL presents $950K to UAB; $37K from Cullman fundraising
Andres Forero, M.D., head of the UAB breast cancer research program, left, Carol Myers, president of the BCRFA Board of Directors, and Michael Birrer, M.D., Ph.D, director of the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center / BCRFA
BIRMINGHAM - On Friday, Feb. 2, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation...
Dayspring Dairy: Alabama’s First Licensed Sheep Dairy Farm
Our goal is to produce unique, delicious, safe, and healthy cheeses for our customers.”
Greg Kelly, Owner - Dayspring Dairy
GALLANT – Nestled in a valley in the piedmont of north-east Alabama with lush rolling pastures is Dayspring Dairy Farm. The family owned and operated farm is...
House committee streamlines process for veterans to update status on AL driver’s licenses
MONTGOMERY - State Rep. Randall Shedd, R-Fairview, who serves as chairman of the House Interim Committee on Driver’s License Review, joined with members of the panel on Monday to announce new, streamlined procedures that allow former members of the military to list their veteran...
Ivey establishes Alabama National Guard Joint Enlistment Enhancement Program (JEEP)
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Governor Kay Ivey on Friday via Executive Order 723 announced the creation of the Alabama National Guard Joint Enlistment Enhancement Program (JEEP) in hopes of enlisting new guardsman through an incentivized recruiting program. JEEP will provide a monetary incentive of $500...
As infant formula shortage continues, Alabama pediatricians advise against diluting infant formula
MONTGOMERY, Ala. -- News reports abound about the current shortage of infant formula facing families across the nation and in Alabama, due to supply chain issues and a recall of products by one of the largest producers of infant formula in the United States....
Scam artists take aim as holiday shopping becomes priority for Alabamians
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The holiday season is here, and that presents plenty of opportunities for scammers to spoil Alabamians’ celebrations. A few scams are specific to the holidays, but most are variations on everyday frauds, ramped up to match seasonal spikes in spending and...
AG Marshall: Alabama’s price gouging law is in effect
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Attorney General Steve Marshall warns those who would seek to illegally profit from the current public health emergency that Alabama’s price gouging law has been activated.
On March 13, 2020, Governor Kay Ivey declared a State Public Health Emergency in Alabama relating...
Ivey urges Alabama small business owners to prepare now by applying for federal financial relief
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Governor Kay Ivey is urging Alabama Small Business Owners to respond to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic by taking steps to ensure their business will withstand the troubling economy.
Final guidelines for how the federal government will distribute financial relief to Alabama’s small...
Gov. Ivey declares State of Emergency ahead of Hurricane Ida Alabama landfall
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - — Governor Kay Ivey has issued a State of Emergency Proclamation pertaining to Hurricane Ida.
“Ahead of Hurricane Ida’s anticipated landfall, I’m issuing a state of emergency for Alabama's coastal and western counties effective at 2 p.m.,” stated Gov. Kay Ivey.
The proclamation...
Flags to be flown at half-staff for fallen officer O’Rear
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey on Friday ordered flags in the state to be flown at half-staff this Monday, Feb. 10 in honor of fallen Kimberly Police Officer Nick O'Rear.
Ivey released the following statement: "I am directing flags be flown at half-staff...
Ivey announces plans to make I-565 6 lanes
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Gov. Kay Ivey on Wednesday announced two major transportation projects in the Limestone and Madison county area were selected by the Alabama Department of Transportation for the Rebuild Alabama Act First Year Plan 2020.
The first project includes resurfacing and revising lanes...
Attorney General Steve Marshall files lawsuit to block Biden vaccine and mask mandates for Head Start employees and students
MONTGOMERY, Ala.—Attorney General Steve Marshall filed a lawsuit Tuesday to block the Biden administration’s Head Start mandate for program employees to vaccinate against COVID, and for pre-school pupils to wear face masks, or risk all federal funding.
Two of Alabama’s state agencies—the Alabama Department of...
ALEA welcomes 52 new Troopers during graduation ceremony in Selma
SELMA, Ala. – The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) graduated 52 new ALEA Troopers Nov. 4, during a closed ceremony held in the auditorium of the Alabama Criminal Justice Training Center (ACJTC), in Selma.
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor personally welcomed the agency’s newest sworn members...
Alabama House approves medical marijuana bill
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — The Alabama House of Representatives on Thursday approved a medical marijuana bill that would allow registered patients with qualifying conditions to safely access and use medical cannabis.
The Senate is expected to give its final approval and send it to Governor Kay...
Ivey signs 3 priority bills into law
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Governor Kay Ivey on Friday signed House Bill 170, sponsored by Rep. Danny Garrett, R-Trussville; House Bill 192, sponsored by Rep. Bill Poole, R-Tuscaloosa; and Senate Bill 30, sponsored by Sen. Arthur Orr, R-Decatur, into law. During the governor’s state of...
Alabama Department of Public Health issues 2022 Fish Consumption Advisories
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) annually updates fish consumption advisories based on data collected the preceding fall by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM). ADEM, the Tennessee Valley Authority and the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources...
Local students bring home ribbons from Youth Sheep Show during Alabama National Fair
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - For hundreds of youth across Alabama, fall fair season means one thing- it’s livestock show time.
That translates to family time for youth like Cole Eubanks of Cullman County, one of about 250 exhibitors to compete in livestock shows during the Alabama...
Northern flicker: The story behind Alabama’s state bird
AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. – In Alabama, one of the most iconic and historic creatures is the Northern flicker. These distinguished birds are found in forests, neighborhoods and parks across the state–reminding residents of the species’ significant heritage. The Northern flicker, also known as the...
Harbison’s HR 315 recognizes historical significance of trail marker trees
MONTGOMERY - The Alabama legislative session ended earlier this month, but not before HR 315, “Recognizing the Historic Significance of Marker Trees in the State of Alabama,” sponsored by Rep. Corey Harbison, R-Good Hope, was passed. The resolution recognizes the “great historic and cultural...
New Alabama law requires CDL programs to teach drivers how to recognize human trafficking
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - On Monday, Aug. 12, Gov. Kay Ivey held an official signing ceremony to give public recognition to several bills passed during the 2019 legislative session and previously signed by her, including House Bill 261, which requires all new commercial driver licensees...
(Updated) Former AL Senate Majority Leader Zeb Little allegedly stole more than $25K from client trust funds
Zeb Little (Cullman County Sheriff's Office)
MONTOMERY, Ala. – Former Alabama Senate Majority Leader Zeb Little, 50, turned himself in Thursday in Cullman after being indicted by a Cullman County grand jury on three counts of first-degree felony theft of property. Cullman Police Department...
CDC offers new COVID-19 Quarantine and Isolation (Q&I) Calculator for the public
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Cases, hospitalizations and deaths from COVID-19 have declined greatly in Alabama. However, it is unknown if the BA.2 subvariant or other emerging variants may escape the immune's systems response from either a previous COVID-19 infection or vaccine-induced protection. If so, mitigation...
Paused monoclonal antibodies for treatment of COVID-19 disease available again
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – As of December 23, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services had announced the temporary pause in allocations of some monoclonal antibodies and on Monday, Jan. 3, The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) has received an advisory from the...
COVID-19 booster shot eligibility expands to additional individuals and vaccines
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) continues to follow the guidance of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) concerning administration of COVID-19 vaccine, including boosters. Guidance is being given to...
Alabama awarded $17.8M Reimagine Workforce Preparation grant
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Gov. Kay Ivey on Tuesday announced Alabama has been awarded $17,827,178.11 to provide opportunities for Alabama workers who have been displaced by COVID-19 to develop new skills in high demand industries. The funds will be administered by the Alabama Department of...
COVID-19 surges in Alabama children, vaccination and other measures needed to prevent further spread
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The Alabama Department of Public Health reports a significant increase in pediatric cases of COVID-19 at this time of year, compared to the same time in 2020. Coupled with this increase in cases, ADPH notes that Alabama has at least 50...
ADEM: ‘Your drinking water is safe’ during COVID-19 crisis
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Your drinking water is safe, so there’s no need to hoard cases of bottled water during the coronavirus crisis, the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) wants the public to know.
“With so many things Alabamians have to worry about – their...
Retailers, beaches, some businesses open with restrictions; some medical procedures allowed in new order
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Alabama’s current Stay at Home Order will expire this Thursday, April 30, said Gov. Kay Ivey Tuesday morning. Effective April 30, 2020 at 5 p.m., the State’s new Safer at Home Order will go into effect and will remain in effect...
Governor Ivey signs Nick Risner Act into law, backing the blue
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Governor Kay Ivey on Wednesday signed House Bill 143, which is named in honor of Sheffield K-9 Sgt. Nick Risner, who was tragically murdered in October 2021 by a man previously convicted of manslaughter.
The Nick Risner Act, which is sponsored by Rep....
Opioids in Alabama
MONTGOMERY - On Jan. 24, Alabama Attorney Gen. Steve Marshall, State Mental Health Commissioner Lynn Beshear, and Acting State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris released the findings of the Alabama Opioid Overdose and Addiction Council, including a list of recommended actions the state can...
ADOL warns of unemployment compensation scams
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The Alabama Department of Labor (ADOL) is warning unemployment compensation recipients to beware of scammers who may be seeking to fraudulently obtain unemployment benefits. These individuals or groups may represent themselves as legitimate entities and will promise that they can obtain...
Black bear struck by vehicle on U.S. 278 in Brooksville
Brooksville resident Jamie Pettit, who helped state wildlife officials load the bear for transport, shows the size of its paw. (Photo courtesy Jamie Pettit)
BROOKSVILLE - On Sunday evening, a black bear was struck by a vehicle on U.S. Highway 278, just across the Blount...
Musical legend Lionel Richie participates in photo voter ID efforts
MONTGOMERY, Ala.— We are excited to announce that multi-platinum singer and songwriter Mr. Lionel Richie, a native of Tuskegee, Alabama, has agreed to participate in our 2022 photo voter ID and voter registration initiative. Mr. Richie will be, in addition to the 45th President...
Alabama Press Association votes to censure Alabama editor over KKK editorial
This editorial ran in Linden, Alabama's The Democrat-Reporter on Feb. 14, 2019. (Courtesy of WVTM 13)
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The Alabama Press Association Board of Directors voted Tuesday to censure Goodloe Sutton and suspend the association membership of The Democrat-Reporter. The move follows the publication of...
Don’t let your guard down, COVID-19 continues circulating in Alabama communities
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - COVID-19 continues to infect persons in Alabama, with the Delta variant the predominant strain. Given that recent numbers of cases, percent positive tests and hospitalizations are decreasing, Alabamians may feel that the worst is behind us. However, the potential for this...
AG Steve Marshall files new lawsuit against City of Birmingham over removal of historic Linn Park monument
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Attorney General Steve Marshall announced today that he has filed a new lawsuit against the City of Birmingham for its removal of a historic monument in violation of the Alabama Memorial Preservation Act. The lawsuit seeks additional penalties after the City...
Justice Department files sexual harassment suit against Randy Hames
Randy Hames is shown in a booking photo from earlier this year. (Cullman County Sheriff's Office)
WASHINGTON – The Justice Department today announced that it has filed a lawsuit alleging Cullman attorney and landlord Randy Hames, 76, subjected female tenants to egregious sexual harassment in...
$600 FPUC benefit set to expire July 25
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – ADOL is reminding all unemployment compensation claimants that Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC), the additional $600 federal benefit granted by the CARES Act, will expire on benefit week ending July 25, 2020.
Across all states, the $600 FPUC payments are set to...
‘Don’t wait!’: ALEA urges Alabamians to obtain STAR ID despite deadline extension
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – One year ago, Governor Kay Ivey and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Secretary Hal Taylor were urging Alabamians to obtain their STAR ID by Oct. 1, 2020.
However, in response to COVID-19, President Donald Trump ordered the Department of Homeland Security to...
Governor Ivey signs House Bill 82, supporting Alabama small businesses
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Governor Kay Ivey on Monday signed House Bill 82, the Small Business Relief and Revitalization Act of 2022 sponsored by Rep. Danny Garrett (R – HD44), into law providing immediate tax relief for Alabama small businesses.
“Small businesses are the pillars of our...
Alabama commended for progress in fight against human trafficking
TAMPA, Fla. - The U.S. Institute Against Human Trafficking in its July 2021 newsletter proclaimed, “Alabama Officials Leading The Way In Combatting Sex Trafficking,” and commended the state’s Child Trafficking Solutions Project and its “TraffickingFree Zone” program.
The article read, in part, “USIAHT has made...
Ivey announces locations of 3 mental health crisis care centers in Alabama
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Governor Kay Ivey announced Wednesday, along with Commissioner Lynn Beshear of the Alabama Department of Mental Health and House Majority Leader Nathaniel Ledbetter, the awardees of funding for crisis centers to serve individuals with mental illness and substance use disorders.
The Alabama...
ALGOP statement on Sen. Jeff Sessions’ nomination for U.S. attorney general
Sen. Jeff Sessions, R-Alabama
MONTGOMERY - On Friday morning, President-elect Donald Trump announced that U.S. Sen. Jeff Sessions, R-Alabama will serve in his cabinet as U.S. Attorney General. Alabama Republican Party Chairman Terry Lathan issued the following statement on the nomination:
"The Alabama Republican Party is...
Gov. Ivey signs constitutional carry bill
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Alabama is now the 22nd constitutional carry state, and the first state to pass and sign constitutional carry in 2022.
All law-abiding citizens will soon be able to exercise the right to carry a gun without a permit.
Cullman City Police Chief Kenny...
Alabama Farmers elect new, recognize longtime leaders; Cullman County’s Jeremy Calvert and Tim Donaldson honored
From left are Federation President Jimmy Parnell, Cullman County’s Jeremy Calvert and Federation Horticulture Division Director Mac Higginbotham.
MONTGOMERY - More than 600 farmers representing 16 commodities gathered in Montgomery Feb. 6-8 for the Alabama Farmers Federation Commodity Organizational Meeting. They heard industry updates, learned...
Absentee voting period for May 24 Primary Election begins Wednesday
MONTGOMERY, Ala.— The absentee voting period for the May 24 Primary Election begins on March 30, 2022. Important absentee voting deadlines are listed below:
May 17, 2022: The last day that absentee ballot applications can be returned by mail.May 19, 2022: The last day that...
Elective abortions illegal in Alabama
MONTGOMERY, Ala.—Attorney General Steve Marshall announced Friday afternoon that the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Alabama has lifted the injunction against Alabama’s Human Life Protection Act.
“The State of Alabama’s emergency motion to lift the injunction and reinstate Alabama’s 2019 law, which...
Holly Pond awarded $250K for new senior center
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - More than 60 Alabama cities and counties will soon see improvements in their communities thanks to almost $19.4 million in Community Development Block Grants (CDGB) awarded by Gov. Kay Ivey, who announced the awardees Monday. Included is the Town of Holly...
WATCH: Shedd, Harbison, Bussman talk state, local issues at annual Cullman luncheon; Bussman takes aim at Alabama State Department of Education
Sen. Paul Bussman, R-Cullman spent a good portion of his time speaking about education at Friday’s State of the State Community Luncheon. / Nick Griffin
CULLMAN - The Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2018 State of the State Community Luncheon took place on Friday, with...
Alabama’s February unemployment rate is 3.0%
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Alabama Department of Labor Secretary Fitzgerald Washington announced on Friday that Alabama’s preliminary, seasonally adjusted February unemployment rate is 3.0%, down from January’s rate of 3.1%, and below February 2021’s rate of 3.8%. February’s rate represents 68,703 unemployed persons, compared to...
COVID in Alabama: precautions, information to help stay up to date from the desk of Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – For over a year now, Alabamians, like people around the globe, have made sacrifices and adjusted to a temporary “new normal.” Alabamians have consistently stepped up to the plate over the course of this pandemic.
As our state moves forward, Gov. Ivey...
Despite some Courthouse closures, courts remain open for business
MONTGOMERY, Ala.
- While many courthouses throughout the state are shuttering as a result of the
COVID-19 pandemic, the Courts in Alabama remain open for business. Leaders of
the Alabama State Bar are working in close coordination with the Supreme Court
of Alabama, the Administrative Office of Courts,...
Alabama Women’s Hall of Fame to induct Harper Lee and Milly Francis
Harper Lee, author of “To Kill a Mockingbird” (Licensed by Getty Images. Used with permission)
MARION, Ala. - Harper Lee and Milly Francis will be inducted into the Alabama Women’s Hall of Fame on March 7, 2019. The induction ceremony will take place at 10:30...
Alabama farmers to host virtual field trips every Friday through May 22
MONTGOMERY, Ala. - How do peanuts grow? When do Alabama farmers grow different fruits and vegetables? What’s the difference between a cow, a bull and a calf?
Alabama farmers will answer all those questions and much more during Virtual Field Trips offered through Facebook Live...
February 2023 health department scores
CULLMAN, Ala. - Each month, food establishments are inspected by the Alabama Department of Health and graded on every aspect of the business.
Below are the local businesses and institutions that were inspected in February.
Establishment Name: Berkeley Bob's Coffee
Address: 304 1st Ave SE
City: Cullman
Zip Code:...
Governor, State Superintendent of Education: schools closed for remainder of year; education to continue by “alternative methods”
MONTGOMERY, Ala.
- On Thursday afternoon, Gov. Kay Ivey issued a supplemental State of Emergency
notice as she and State Superintendent of Education Dr. Eric Mackey announced
that all schools will remain closed through the remainder of the school year.
Mackey stated that online and take-home resources will...
Cost of littering on the rise in Alabama; ALDOT campaign highlights increased fines
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Litter continues to be an issue along Alabama roadways, and the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) has launched an anti-litter campaign that highlights the recent increase in litter fines and penalties.
ALDOT spent almost $7 million last year to clean up litter...
Alabama DHR reminds public to watch for signs of elder abuse
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The Alabama Department of Human Resources is encouraging the public to help protect older family members, friends, neighbors and others from elder abuse by learning to recognize the warning signs of mistreatment.
Thousands of elderly and disabled adults are abused, neglected and...
Governor Ivey signs six bills, solidifies Alabama as most pro-military state
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Governor Kay Ivey on Tuesday signed six bills designed to make Alabama even more military-friendly. Those bills include Senate Bills 28, 99, 116, 119, 141 and 167.
“Alabama is the most pro-military state in the nation, and I am proud to put...
Governor Ivey issues Executive Order to fight overreaching Covid-19 vaccine mandates
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Governor Kay Ivey on Monday signed Executive Order 724 to fight the overreaching covid-19 vaccine mandates from the federal government. In doing so, Governor Ivey released the following statement:
“The federal government’s outrageous overreach has simply given us no other option but...
