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Newly released photo shows old, grizzled Charles Manson
04/09/2012
LOS ANGELES (AP) - California corrections officials have released a new photograph of convicted cult killer Charles Manson that shows him sporting long hair, a shaggy beard and a swastika scar on his forehead.
The Manson photo was taken last June and released Wednesday. The buzz cut he had in his last picture is gone, his hair and beard are now long and gray. He's had the carved swastika scar for decades.
The Manson photo was taken last June and released Wednesday. The buzz cut he had in his last picture is gone, his hair and beard are now long and gray. He's had the carved swastika scar for decades.
The 77-year-old is scheduled for his 12th parole hearing next week. He's serving a life sentence at Corcoran State Prison for the killings of nine people, including the 1969 deaths of pregnant actress Sharon Tate and six other people in cult attacks.
Three of his followers also are serving life sentences. A fourth, Susan Atkins, died in prison in 2009.
Three of his followers also are serving life sentences. A fourth, Susan Atkins, died in prison in 2009.
Saints coach caught on tape asking players to injure opponents
04/09/2012
NEW ORLEANS (AP) - A newly released recording purports to capture former Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams telling players to "put a lick" on San Francisco's Kyle Williams to see if the receiver has lingering effects from an earlier concussion.
Filmmaker Sean Pamphilon, who had access to Saints meetings for a documentary on football, has posted the audio on his web site. Pamphilon shared the content with Yahoo Sports, telling the website that while he was not bothered by much of Williams' profanity-laced speech, he was troubled by comments about the previously concussed player.
In the recording from a meeting before the Saints played the 49ers in a playoff game in January, Williams urges players to beat running back Frank Gore's head, "lay out" quarterback Alex Smith and go after receiver Michael Crabtree's knee.
Filmmaker Sean Pamphilon, who had access to Saints meetings for a documentary on football, has posted the audio on his web site. Pamphilon shared the content with Yahoo Sports, telling the website that while he was not bothered by much of Williams' profanity-laced speech, he was troubled by comments about the previously concussed player.
In the recording from a meeting before the Saints played the 49ers in a playoff game in January, Williams urges players to beat running back Frank Gore's head, "lay out" quarterback Alex Smith and go after receiver Michael Crabtree's knee.
3 arrested for series of car break-ins
04/09/2012
DECATUR, Ala. (WAAY) - A series of car break-ins around Decatur has been solved.
Investigators say the incidents began in February and continued through March and April.
In some of the break-ins, credit cards were stolen, then later used. Investigators scoured surveillance tapes from the stores involved until they were able to find the suspect's car on one piece of film.
On Thursday, police spotted the car and stopped it on Sandlin Road. The driver was identified as 18 year old Eli Read. Officers discovered a GPS unit that was listed as being stolen during one of the break-ins was in Read's car and held in for questioning.
Investigators say the incidents began in February and continued through March and April.
In some of the break-ins, credit cards were stolen, then later used. Investigators scoured surveillance tapes from the stores involved until they were able to find the suspect's car on one piece of film.
On Thursday, police spotted the car and stopped it on Sandlin Road. The driver was identified as 18 year old Eli Read. Officers discovered a GPS unit that was listed as being stolen during one of the break-ins was in Read's car and held in for questioning.
Investigators soon uncovered two juveniles who Read was reportedly working with in the break-ins, which stretched into Priceville as well. As the juveniles were arrested, numerous GPS devices, a computer, a firearm and other valuables were recovered.
All three people involved were charged with four counts of breaking into an automobile and three counts of fraudulent use of a credit card. Eli Read was booked into the Decatur CityJail and later transferred to the Morgan County Jail.
The 16 year old was found to be in possession of a stolen firearm. He was booked into the Decatur City Jail and transferred to the Juvenile Detention Facility in Tuscumbia, Alabama.
The 14 year old male was booked into the Decatur City Jail and released to his parents pending juvenile court procedures. Additional charges may be pending on cases from Priceville.
All three people involved were charged with four counts of breaking into an automobile and three counts of fraudulent use of a credit card. Eli Read was booked into the Decatur CityJail and later transferred to the Morgan County Jail.
The 16 year old was found to be in possession of a stolen firearm. He was booked into the Decatur City Jail and transferred to the Juvenile Detention Facility in Tuscumbia, Alabama.
The 14 year old male was booked into the Decatur City Jail and released to his parents pending juvenile court procedures. Additional charges may be pending on cases from Priceville.
Limestone man accused of drug trafficking
04/09/2012
ATHENS, Ala (WAAY) - Tips from concerned neighbors led to the arrest of a 28 year old Athens man on Drug Trafficking charges.
Limestone County investigators set up surveillance on the home of Stanley Dwayne Billions Jr., and arrested him Tuesday night. He's been charged with Trafficking in Mairjuana, Possession of Controlled Substance, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Deputies say they found a small amount of marijuana in his vehicle and after executing a search warrant of his room, confiscated 3.5 pounds of marijuana, hydrocodone tablets, several sets of scales, and $2200.00 in cash.
Billions remains in jail on a $56,000.00 bond.
Limestone County investigators set up surveillance on the home of Stanley Dwayne Billions Jr., and arrested him Tuesday night. He's been charged with Trafficking in Mairjuana, Possession of Controlled Substance, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Deputies say they found a small amount of marijuana in his vehicle and after executing a search warrant of his room, confiscated 3.5 pounds of marijuana, hydrocodone tablets, several sets of scales, and $2200.00 in cash.
Billions remains in jail on a $56,000.00 bond.
2 arrested after high speed chase in Laceys Spring
04/09/2012
LACEYS SPRING, Ala. (WAAY) - A simple traffic stop in Morgan County early Thursday morning led to two high speed chases and two arrests.
It began around 1:00 a.m. near Whitesburg Bridge when a deputy tried to stop a car to ask about an expired tag. The driver of that car sped off towards Fields Road. After a few minutes, the car stopped, and the driver got out and ran into the woods on foot.
The deputy got out of his car and chased the man into the brush. Meanwhile, the passenger of the car slid over into the drivers seat and zoomed away.
It began around 1:00 a.m. near Whitesburg Bridge when a deputy tried to stop a car to ask about an expired tag. The driver of that car sped off towards Fields Road. After a few minutes, the car stopped, and the driver got out and ran into the woods on foot.
The deputy got out of his car and chased the man into the brush. Meanwhile, the passenger of the car slid over into the drivers seat and zoomed away.
Another deputy chased after the car, finally catching up to it on Wilson Road. The woman, later identified as Kristy Moore, stopped and was taken into custody without incident.
Meanwhile, K-9 units searched the Fields Road area for signs of the male driver, but came up empty.
After several hours, investigators got a call about a suspicious man walking alone in a field near the scene. He was arrested and identified as the driver who took off - Marvin Kendall.
Kendall was charged with Resisting Arrest, Improper Lane Usage,
Driving With a Revoked License, Attempting to Elude, Failure to Follow Reasonable/ Prudent Speed and Failure to Signal
Kristy Moore was charged with Attempting to Elude, Obstructing Government Operations, Driving with an Expired Tag and Driving With a Revoked License.
Meanwhile, K-9 units searched the Fields Road area for signs of the male driver, but came up empty.
After several hours, investigators got a call about a suspicious man walking alone in a field near the scene. He was arrested and identified as the driver who took off - Marvin Kendall.
Kendall was charged with Resisting Arrest, Improper Lane Usage,
Driving With a Revoked License, Attempting to Elude, Failure to Follow Reasonable/ Prudent Speed and Failure to Signal
Kristy Moore was charged with Attempting to Elude, Obstructing Government Operations, Driving with an Expired Tag and Driving With a Revoked License.
Charter Schools bill moving forward
04/09/2012
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) - The Alabama Legislature has taken the first step toward passing legislation that would authorize 20 charter schools in Alabama.
These would be taxpayer-funded schools that would operate outside the regulations most public schools must follow.
The House Ways and Means-Education Committee voted 9-6 Thursday morning to approve the measure that now goes to the full House. The creation of charter schools is supported by Republican Gov. Robert Bentley and by GOP legislative leadership. The Alabama Education Association and most Democrats in the Legislature oppose the measure.
The committee vote was mostly along party lines with only Republican Rep. Jeremy Oden of Vinemont switching sides and voting against the bill.
Democrats complained the bill was rushed to a vote and more time was needed to study the issue.
These would be taxpayer-funded schools that would operate outside the regulations most public schools must follow.
The House Ways and Means-Education Committee voted 9-6 Thursday morning to approve the measure that now goes to the full House. The creation of charter schools is supported by Republican Gov. Robert Bentley and by GOP legislative leadership. The Alabama Education Association and most Democrats in the Legislature oppose the measure.
The committee vote was mostly along party lines with only Republican Rep. Jeremy Oden of Vinemont switching sides and voting against the bill.
Democrats complained the bill was rushed to a vote and more time was needed to study the issue.
Late Night Liquor Store Armed Robbery
04/09/2012
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WAAY) - Huntsville police are investigating a late night armed robbery at a liquor store.
Police say two men held up "The Liquor Store" at the corner of Golf Road and South Memorial Parkway around 9:30 Wednesday night.
Police said one suspect was wearing a hockey mask.
The other had on a grey hoodie.
Police said the two men were armed with guns and fled on foot, but believe the pair got into a waiting vehicle.
Investigators said the pair stole money and alcohol from the store.
if you have any information, call the Huntsville Police Department at (256) 722-7100.
Police say two men held up "The Liquor Store" at the corner of Golf Road and South Memorial Parkway around 9:30 Wednesday night.
Police said one suspect was wearing a hockey mask.
The other had on a grey hoodie.
Police said the two men were armed with guns and fled on foot, but believe the pair got into a waiting vehicle.
Investigators said the pair stole money and alcohol from the store.
if you have any information, call the Huntsville Police Department at (256) 722-7100.
Burger Bytes: Chicken Wing Eating Contest
04/09/2012
MOULTON, Ala. -- The Alabama Chicken and Egg Festival is right around the corner.
One of the more popular events of the weekend is the WAAY 31 chicken wing eating contest.
“Just try to grab them, eat pull it off put it down,” contest emcee Walter “Bird” Young said. “Eat pull it off put it down, keep going.”
Young and Greg Dutton know what it takes to quickly leave a chicken wing bare boned. They don't compete, but they will have emceed the event all eight years.
In fact, Dutton’s son won the contest five times.
“He took after his mother,” Dutton said jokingly.
“The key is to make sure you take your time and get all the meat off the bone,” Young said. “A lot of times people try to eat real fast and don't get enough meat off and we don't count those.”
John's BBQ in Moulton has the honor of supplying the chicken wings.
“Preparing these wings for the competition, I prepare four-to-five hundred in order to have enough wings for 15 competitors,” restaurant owner Stacey Cross said.
In three minutes, it takes about 25 to 30 wings to with this competition. But, there is a strategy that will help you win eating the double bone or drummy.
“If you get the double bone wing, you take the big end of it, pushing it down,” Dutton described. “It sets the meat free. Pull it off and you have a good clean wing that won't get thrown out.”
“The drummy is probably easier than the double wing,” Young said. “All you got to do is put it in your mouth, and pull it clean!”
Now you know how it's done, so anyone can win.
“We've had folks, Kyle, from Hamilton, Haleyville, Tennessee, Mississippi,” Dutton said. “You get motorcycle riders that come in. You may have a 300 pound guy there that loses to 16 year old 80 pound girl.”
The Alabama Chicken and Egg festival is April 13-15.
One of the more popular events of the weekend is the WAAY 31 chicken wing eating contest.
“Just try to grab them, eat pull it off put it down,” contest emcee Walter “Bird” Young said. “Eat pull it off put it down, keep going.”
Young and Greg Dutton know what it takes to quickly leave a chicken wing bare boned. They don't compete, but they will have emceed the event all eight years.
In fact, Dutton’s son won the contest five times.
“He took after his mother,” Dutton said jokingly.
“The key is to make sure you take your time and get all the meat off the bone,” Young said. “A lot of times people try to eat real fast and don't get enough meat off and we don't count those.”
John's BBQ in Moulton has the honor of supplying the chicken wings.
“Preparing these wings for the competition, I prepare four-to-five hundred in order to have enough wings for 15 competitors,” restaurant owner Stacey Cross said.
In three minutes, it takes about 25 to 30 wings to with this competition. But, there is a strategy that will help you win eating the double bone or drummy.
“If you get the double bone wing, you take the big end of it, pushing it down,” Dutton described. “It sets the meat free. Pull it off and you have a good clean wing that won't get thrown out.”
“The drummy is probably easier than the double wing,” Young said. “All you got to do is put it in your mouth, and pull it clean!”
Now you know how it's done, so anyone can win.
“We've had folks, Kyle, from Hamilton, Haleyville, Tennessee, Mississippi,” Dutton said. “You get motorcycle riders that come in. You may have a 300 pound guy there that loses to 16 year old 80 pound girl.”
The Alabama Chicken and Egg festival is April 13-15.
New details in Crossville teen death
04/09/2012
CROSSVILLE, Ala. (WAAY) - DeKalb County Sheriff's deputies have released new information as their investigation into the death of a 17 year old in Crossville continues.
The boy has now been identified as Alan Michael Tarwater. According to Sheriff Jimmy Harris, Tarwater appears to have died in his sleep from yet undetermined causes. His body was sent to Huntsville for an autopsy. On Thursday, Harris said the preliminary investigation showed no signs of foul play, but it couldn't be ruled out at this time.
In the meanwhile, Sheriff Harris has announced that his deputies are searching for a man they want to question in relation to the case. Todd Lashane Thomas was reportedly with Tarwater and three juveniles the night before the boy's death. Thomas left the scene when the body was picked up.
Because Tarwater had been a ward of Marshall County DHR for some time, that agency is handling funeral arrangements and other such details.
Warrants have been obtained charging Thomas with Contributing to the Delinquency of Children. He also has outstanding warrants for previous traffic offenses. Anyone who has knowledge of Thomas or his whereabouts should contact the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office at (256) 845-3801.
The boy has now been identified as Alan Michael Tarwater. According to Sheriff Jimmy Harris, Tarwater appears to have died in his sleep from yet undetermined causes. His body was sent to Huntsville for an autopsy. On Thursday, Harris said the preliminary investigation showed no signs of foul play, but it couldn't be ruled out at this time.
In the meanwhile, Sheriff Harris has announced that his deputies are searching for a man they want to question in relation to the case. Todd Lashane Thomas was reportedly with Tarwater and three juveniles the night before the boy's death. Thomas left the scene when the body was picked up.
Because Tarwater had been a ward of Marshall County DHR for some time, that agency is handling funeral arrangements and other such details.
Warrants have been obtained charging Thomas with Contributing to the Delinquency of Children. He also has outstanding warrants for previous traffic offenses. Anyone who has knowledge of Thomas or his whereabouts should contact the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office at (256) 845-3801.
Three indicted for New Years shooting
04/09/2012
LEIGHTON, Ala. (WAAY) - Three people have been arrested and charged in connection with a New Year's Day shooting in Leighton.
According to investigators, 31 year old Thomas Ricks shot at a group of people outside a trailer on Maple Street on January 1st. Two people were with Ricks at the time - 30 year old Sabra Taylor and 42 year old Derrick Carter.
No one was injured in the shooting, but police say the bullets went into the home and narrowly missed two children who were sleeping inside.
All three were indicted on Attempted Murder and Shooting into an Occupied Dwelling charges in the Colbert County Grand Jury session in March.
According to our news partner, the Times Daily, authorities said Taylor and Carter were charged because of their indirect involvement in the crime. Pace said Taylor drove Ricks to the residence and Carter, who was in another car, brought the gun and gave it to Ricks.
Carter and Taylor are free on bond. Ricks remains in custody.
According to investigators, 31 year old Thomas Ricks shot at a group of people outside a trailer on Maple Street on January 1st. Two people were with Ricks at the time - 30 year old Sabra Taylor and 42 year old Derrick Carter.
No one was injured in the shooting, but police say the bullets went into the home and narrowly missed two children who were sleeping inside.
All three were indicted on Attempted Murder and Shooting into an Occupied Dwelling charges in the Colbert County Grand Jury session in March.
According to our news partner, the Times Daily, authorities said Taylor and Carter were charged because of their indirect involvement in the crime. Pace said Taylor drove Ricks to the residence and Carter, who was in another car, brought the gun and gave it to Ricks.
Carter and Taylor are free on bond. Ricks remains in custody.
Kim McLaughlin Found Guilty of Murdering her Mother
04/09/2012
The eight male and four female jurors found Kim McLaughlin guilty of killing and burning her mother in a
McLaughlin’s mother, 73 year-old Shirley Robuck, suffered more than 200 stab wounds, and according to a state medical examiner, her decapitated head and body were lit on fire.
McLaughlin’s attorneys tried to argue that their client is mentally insane; according to accounts after she was taken into custody, she claimed her mother was a demon who could control her thoughts. Still, the jury wasn’t convinced that the 51 year-old was suffering a severe mental illness at the time of the murder.
Judge Ruth Ann Hall says a sentencing date will be set on Monday.
Decatur Church Gives Away Two Thousand Dollars in Free Gas.
04/09/2012
Free gas! With prices through the roof that's enough to get anybody's attention. On Friday, it got the attention of hundreds of drivers who packed the corner of 14 Street and Central Parkway in Decatur.
Worshippers at City of Champions Church in Decatur celebrated their one year anniversary by paying for 2000 dollars worth of gas for the community. They passed out tickets to the first one hundred customers at the Chevron Food Mart.
Dr. Karockas Watkins with the City of Champions Chuch says "Jesus calls us to give, 'For God so loved the world, he gave his only begotten Son' so we are giving 20 dollars of free gas to the first 100 people." Watkins says with gas prices so high the church felt gas would be a great commodity to give away to people to help them out.
Decatur Police were on hand to keep things running smoothly and to keep people from sitting in the parking lot until noon when the gas was given away.
Good Guy's Towing was also on hand if anyone didn't want to leave. Chevron Manager Charlene Shaik told Waay 31 FirstNews "I don't want people parking in the parking lot before the gas giveaway. I want everybody to have a fair opportunity."
Bertha Nalls waited for hours outside the gas station parking lot to get twenty dollars worth free gas. "Gas is gong up for the last few days and sometimes when you have other bills and everything you can't buy gas like you need" says Nalls. "Anytime that someone is going to give free gas to you, take advantage of it."
Chelsea Hummel also waited for hours outside the business. "The way gas prices are it won't get me that far but it will get me a little ways" says Hummel.
Church members also prayed for customers who needed it. Watkins said it was "chaos but good chaos."
The free gas was given out in less than 30 minutes. Watkins says that it was not just about giving away free gas but "it's about helping people and being a light in a dark world."
Tornado Shelter Safety
04/09/2012
HUNTSVILLE, AL - Google "Tornado Shelters" and you'll get a long list of companies pledging to protect you and your family. Each one seems to boast a different design improvement or flashes fancy sounding credentials.
But, is it just hype?
Currently, there is no law that requires companies selling storm shelters or safe rooms to have their products tested for safety. While there are companies out there that do go above and beyond to ensure their shelter holds up to EF 5 level winds, there are many that don't.
Language like "FEMA Approved" or "FEMA Certified" can be spotted on several storm shelter websites. In reality, FEMA's website makes it a point to say they don't "certify" or "approve" any shelter.
Want to make sure you're not getting the run-around? Check to make sure the company is on the Texas Tech list of tested shelters. You can also visit the National Storm Shelter Association's website for a list of certified shelter manufacturers and retailers.
If you already have a storm shelter and want to make sure it measures up, you can contact a state licensed structural engineer. They can look over the shelter's design and installation method to make sure it is a safe place for your family.
But, is it just hype?
Currently, there is no law that requires companies selling storm shelters or safe rooms to have their products tested for safety. While there are companies out there that do go above and beyond to ensure their shelter holds up to EF 5 level winds, there are many that don't.
Language like "FEMA Approved" or "FEMA Certified" can be spotted on several storm shelter websites. In reality, FEMA's website makes it a point to say they don't "certify" or "approve" any shelter.
Want to make sure you're not getting the run-around? Check to make sure the company is on the Texas Tech list of tested shelters. You can also visit the National Storm Shelter Association's website for a list of certified shelter manufacturers and retailers.
If you already have a storm shelter and want to make sure it measures up, you can contact a state licensed structural engineer. They can look over the shelter's design and installation method to make sure it is a safe place for your family.
Missing Lauderdale County woman found, hospitalized
04/09/2012
LEXINGTON, Ala. (WAAY) - Lauderdale County investigators say that a woman reported missing earlier this week is now back home.
The search for 29 year old Ashley Sterry began Thursday after family members got a text from her phone saying she'd been kidnapped. There was no sign of the woman until she called her mother on Friday to say she was back home. Investigators went to her house on County Road 89 near Lexington and found her nearby.
"We're proud that she's alive for the family" Sheriff Ronnie Willis said. "Now we've got to get to the end of the story and see what's all happened and look at the suspects and see what we can find out"
Sterry was taken to an area hospital to be evaluated. The investigation into exactly what happened is ongoing.
The search for 29 year old Ashley Sterry began Thursday after family members got a text from her phone saying she'd been kidnapped. There was no sign of the woman until she called her mother on Friday to say she was back home. Investigators went to her house on County Road 89 near Lexington and found her nearby.
"We're proud that she's alive for the family" Sheriff Ronnie Willis said. "Now we've got to get to the end of the story and see what's all happened and look at the suspects and see what we can find out"
Sterry was taken to an area hospital to be evaluated. The investigation into exactly what happened is ongoing.
Lawrence County couple accused of forging prescriptions
04/09/2012
MOULTON, Ala. (WAAY) - Lawrence County deputies have charged a Moulton couple with Possession of a Forged Instrument and Possession of Controlled Substances after a month long investigation.
33 year olds Dicie and Heath Mayes first caught the attention of law enforcement when a pharmacy clerk contacted the Sheriff's Department to tell them about what appeared to be a forged prescription.
Agents soon followed a paper trail of fake scrips, and discovered more than 600 Hydrocodone pills had been obtained by the Mayes in a five day period. Investigators soon discovered that the drugs were being resold on the black market.
Drug agents say they stopped the Mayes car and found large quantities of Hydrocodone and cash, along with computer equipment used to make the phony prescription sheets.
33 year olds Dicie and Heath Mayes first caught the attention of law enforcement when a pharmacy clerk contacted the Sheriff's Department to tell them about what appeared to be a forged prescription.
Agents soon followed a paper trail of fake scrips, and discovered more than 600 Hydrocodone pills had been obtained by the Mayes in a five day period. Investigators soon discovered that the drugs were being resold on the black market.
Drug agents say they stopped the Mayes car and found large quantities of Hydrocodone and cash, along with computer equipment used to make the phony prescription sheets.
Military jet crashes into VA apartment complex
04/09/2012
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (AP) - Officials say a Navy jet crashed and set fire to an apartment complex in Virginia Beach but the two-member crew ejected safely.
Officials said at least two apartment buildings were on fire but there were no immediate reports of injuries on the ground. TV footage showed black smoke billowing from near some buildings and local TV stations said the jet hit an apartment building.
Overhead helicopter video from WAVY-TV showed fire crews in the apartment complex with large ladders spraying water on multiple smoking buildings, one of which has part of its roof torn off.
Robert Matthias, assistant to Virginia Beach's city manager, told The Associated Press crews are at the scene of an apartment complex where the jet crashed in what he described as a courtyard. He says, "So far, they haven't found any casualties."
Bruce Nedelka, Virginia Beach EMS division chief, said there were no reports of fatalities, although several people were being treated for smoke inhalation.
The Navy said in a news release that the jet was an F/A-18D assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron 106 based at Naval Air Station Oceana.
The Navy says the jet crashed shortly after takeoff at a site near the base at about 12:05 p.m. Both aviators ejected safely but were taken to a local hospital for observation.
Officials said at least two apartment buildings were on fire but there were no immediate reports of injuries on the ground. TV footage showed black smoke billowing from near some buildings and local TV stations said the jet hit an apartment building.
Overhead helicopter video from WAVY-TV showed fire crews in the apartment complex with large ladders spraying water on multiple smoking buildings, one of which has part of its roof torn off.
Robert Matthias, assistant to Virginia Beach's city manager, told The Associated Press crews are at the scene of an apartment complex where the jet crashed in what he described as a courtyard. He says, "So far, they haven't found any casualties."
Bruce Nedelka, Virginia Beach EMS division chief, said there were no reports of fatalities, although several people were being treated for smoke inhalation.
The Navy said in a news release that the jet was an F/A-18D assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron 106 based at Naval Air Station Oceana.
The Navy says the jet crashed shortly after takeoff at a site near the base at about 12:05 p.m. Both aviators ejected safely but were taken to a local hospital for observation.
Decatur Congregation Rocks out on Easter
04/09/2012
DECATUR, Ala. - This Easter Sunday, thousands of Christians spent the morning singing hymns in churches across the Valley. A congregation in Decatur took a different route, spending the morning rocking out to a live classic rock concert.
Through the familiar tunes, the message of God came through loud and clear. Sunday's service at Decatur’s Crosspoint Church was the first in a four-part series called "Rock of Ages." Lead Pastor David Anderson says, “We're going to take old music that we all grew up listening to, and we're going to take a look at it through the Bible."
Anderson says there's a spiritual connection in many of the stories told in classic rock songs, like "Carry on my Wayward Son." Which, by the way, lead singer John Elefante of Kansas was on hand to sing.
Anderson explains, “That story is really about someone who's lost their way in life. There's a story in the Bible about somebody called the prodigal son who lost his way in life, but he came home because the father loved him and forgave him. So we want people to understand today that their father, Jesus, God loves them, and he wants them to come home."
Through guitar riffs, rocking solos, and rich metaphors, Elefante wants to help others come to know Christ through music, just as he's done himself. Referring toKansas’s smash hit ‘Dust in the Wind,’ he says, “We are dust in the wind, we're here for a short time, but the way that I believe, if we accept Christ as our savior, we receive eternal life."
A community church isn’t your typical venue for a rock concert. Elefante jokes, “It was great, but I've never sang 'Carry on my Wayward Son" at 8:30 in the morning." Still, Anderson hopes the messages conveyed in these inspirational lyrics have a powerful impact: “I would say it's an uncommon thing in a lot of churches, but my goal is just to use what they already know and point them to who I know, and that's Jesus."
Eggs Donated by the Dozens
04/09/2012
HUNTSVILLE, Ala-
The Food Bank of North Alabama received a huge shipment of eggs this week donated by local farmers.
“To get something like eggs, which has very high nutrition content, makes us extremely proud to offer this to the feeding programs that we supply,” said Richard Hartz.
Stephen Hollins has volunteered at this food bank for years. Now he works here full time and says he couldn’t be happier doing a job that helps others.
“It is just really satisfying knowing that you are going some good, especially in this day in age. So, it’s nice to be helping somebody,” Hollins said.
Earlier in the week, Hollins helped unload 21,000 eggs and put them in the agency’s industrial-sized refrigerator.
He says it’s always a treat to get fresh items, because those tend to be in short supply.
“These eggs come to us in completely pristine condition. Every egg is completely in date! They are perfect eggs,” said Hollins.
As much as food bank officials appreciate the holiday donations, they say hunger is a year round problem in the Valley and they're always grateful for more.
The Food Bank of North Alabama received a huge shipment of eggs this week donated by local farmers.
“To get something like eggs, which has very high nutrition content, makes us extremely proud to offer this to the feeding programs that we supply,” said Richard Hartz.
Stephen Hollins has volunteered at this food bank for years. Now he works here full time and says he couldn’t be happier doing a job that helps others.
“It is just really satisfying knowing that you are going some good, especially in this day in age. So, it’s nice to be helping somebody,” Hollins said.
Earlier in the week, Hollins helped unload 21,000 eggs and put them in the agency’s industrial-sized refrigerator.
He says it’s always a treat to get fresh items, because those tend to be in short supply.
“These eggs come to us in completely pristine condition. Every egg is completely in date! They are perfect eggs,” said Hollins.
As much as food bank officials appreciate the holiday donations, they say hunger is a year round problem in the Valley and they're always grateful for more.
Sinkhole Causes Headache for I-65 Motorists
04/09/2012
MORGAN COUNTY, Ala. - A natural depression in part of I-65 in Morgan County has been awfully depressing for northbound travelers. The large sinkhole has been an ongoing issue since 2010.
Since then, drivers have dealt with detours, closures, and now, narrowing traffic to one lane while crews put the final touches on what they hope will be the final repair.
Saturday’s sinkhole construction ended at 3:30 in the afternoon, but the traffic continued long after that. It spanned all the way to exit 318, on the edge of CullmanCounty.
Ella Wells found herself near Hartselle when she and her car just couldn't take it anymore. She says, “My little car likes to go fast, and the traffic is moving so slow til the engine told me to pull over, and so I'm doing what it says, I'm letting it cool off."
She was on her way from Birmingham to her sister's wedding shower in Hillsboro. Her hopes of arriving on time quickly faded. She says, "I'm really quite upset about this, I left with plenty of time to get here.”
With stand-still traffic stretching to the horizon, some felt it was poor planning to pour the asphalt during spring break and Easter weekend. Among the scores of spring break travelers were Indiana resident Shelby Simpson and her family. The sinkhole made their already long drive home more like a journey.
Simpson says, “You wouldn't think that you'd hit this much traffic, but what are you gonna do? You've gotta drive through it. We made a bunch of CD mixes to listen to on the way back, so we're just trying to make the best of it."
The construction and delays will continue on Monday and Tuesday. Now that Wells has had plenty of time to think it through, she says if she gets stuck again, it might not be so bad: “When you look at it in the big scheme of things, this is an inconvenience, sure, but there are much bigger things in life."
Warm Weather Backs Up Lawn Care Business
04/09/2012
DECATUR, Ala. - Warmer-than-normal weather has people cranking their lawn mowers earlier-than-normal, too.
Buffy Watson owns Peddler, a bicycle and outdoor equipment store in Decatur. She's been busy. One look out back and you can see why.
Peddler is packed with mowers dropped off for their Spring tune ups.
Buffy Watson owns Peddler, a bicycle and outdoor equipment store in Decatur. She's been busy. One look out back and you can see why.
Peddler is packed with mowers dropped off for their Spring tune ups.
It seems the warmer temps have homeowners ready to get a jump start on manicuring their lawns.
"Oh yes," Watson told WAAY 31 FirstNews. "We've definitely had a lot more people in early this year. They started bringing them in at the end of February. And we've got about twice as many mowers as we did last year at this time."
Peddler's also packed with racks of string trimmers ready for tune ups. The repair shop is backed up now. But, technicians are working fast to take care of customers.
"Oh yes," Watson told WAAY 31 FirstNews. "We've definitely had a lot more people in early this year. They started bringing them in at the end of February. And we've got about twice as many mowers as we did last year at this time."
Peddler's also packed with racks of string trimmers ready for tune ups. The repair shop is backed up now. But, technicians are working fast to take care of customers.
Tasia Malakasis Creates the Perfect Easter Table
04/09/2012
HUNTSVILLE, Ala-
Tasia Malakasis says she fell in love with cooking watching her Greek Grandmother cook special foods for her as a child.
“Food has always been my passion. I eventually look a sabbatical from my previous career and went to the Culinary Institute of America in New York. I took some culinary classes and decided this food needed to be my life,” Tasia said.
Tasia is now the owner of Belle Chevre, an award winning Alabama goat cheese creamery in Elkmont. With national attention given to her superior dairy products, it wasn’t long before she began receiving attention for her own home cooking.
As she gets ready for her family Easter celebration, Tasia shares a few of tricks of the trade.
“My number one piece of advice would be to be prepared. Get as much done as you can ahead of time… that way you can enjoy your day,” said Tasia.
Easy things to do ahead of time:
Make centerpieces
Set your table
Make food ahead of time
Tasia says making a beautiful centerpiece doesn’t have to be hard. Simply take things out of your own yard.
“I don’t buy a whole lot of flowers, I just like to take things out of my own yard, things some people wouldn’t even think of,” Tasia laughed.
Saturday morning she mixed rosemary, azaleas and mint along with other pretty foliage from around her yard.
“And it smells good too,” Tasia adds.
She also added sliced lemons with wooden skewers to add even more color to her table.
“Making an arrangement is really about playing with it.”
When setting an Easter table, she says is time to bring out the formal china!
“There are a couple of times a year that you want to bring out your nice china. Don’t be afraid to use it because Easter is absolutely one of those celebration times that you should show it off,” said Tasia.
When it comes to cooking, she sticks with simple ingredients.
Tasia likes to make her own meat rub by simply mixing rosemary, salt, fresh garlic and olive oil.
“You want to bring your meat up to room temperature for a least an hour before you cook it. It will help cook it more evenly.”
She also likes to make potato salad a day early to let the flavors meld.
Tasia has shared her special “PIMENTO CHEVRE POTATO SALAD” recipe exclusively for our waay-31 viewers.
3 pounds small white potatoes
Kosher salt
3/4 cup mayonnaise
6 oz Belle Chevre Pimento Chevre (found at Earth Fare)
2 TBSP sherry vinegar
1/2 cup chopped fresh chives
Freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup green onions
Directions
Place the potatoes and 2 tablespoons of salt in a large pot of water. Bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, until the potatoes are barely tender when pierced with a knife.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, pimento chevre, chives, green onions, vinegar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of pepper. Set aside.
When the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them in quarters or in half, depending on their size. While the potatoes are still warm, pour enough dressing over them to moisten. Toss well, cover, and refrigerate for a few hours to allow the flavors to blend.
You can find more of here recipes, and even order some of her goat cheese, at bellechevre.com.
Tasia Malakasis says she fell in love with cooking watching her Greek Grandmother cook special foods for her as a child.
“Food has always been my passion. I eventually look a sabbatical from my previous career and went to the Culinary Institute of America in New York. I took some culinary classes and decided this food needed to be my life,” Tasia said.
Tasia is now the owner of Belle Chevre, an award winning Alabama goat cheese creamery in Elkmont. With national attention given to her superior dairy products, it wasn’t long before she began receiving attention for her own home cooking.
As she gets ready for her family Easter celebration, Tasia shares a few of tricks of the trade.
“My number one piece of advice would be to be prepared. Get as much done as you can ahead of time… that way you can enjoy your day,” said Tasia.
Easy things to do ahead of time:
Make centerpieces
Set your table
Make food ahead of time
Tasia says making a beautiful centerpiece doesn’t have to be hard. Simply take things out of your own yard.
“I don’t buy a whole lot of flowers, I just like to take things out of my own yard, things some people wouldn’t even think of,” Tasia laughed.
Saturday morning she mixed rosemary, azaleas and mint along with other pretty foliage from around her yard.
“And it smells good too,” Tasia adds.
She also added sliced lemons with wooden skewers to add even more color to her table.
“Making an arrangement is really about playing with it.”
When setting an Easter table, she says is time to bring out the formal china!
“There are a couple of times a year that you want to bring out your nice china. Don’t be afraid to use it because Easter is absolutely one of those celebration times that you should show it off,” said Tasia.
When it comes to cooking, she sticks with simple ingredients.
Tasia likes to make her own meat rub by simply mixing rosemary, salt, fresh garlic and olive oil.
“You want to bring your meat up to room temperature for a least an hour before you cook it. It will help cook it more evenly.”
She also likes to make potato salad a day early to let the flavors meld.
Tasia has shared her special “PIMENTO CHEVRE POTATO SALAD” recipe exclusively for our waay-31 viewers.
3 pounds small white potatoes
Kosher salt
3/4 cup mayonnaise
6 oz Belle Chevre Pimento Chevre (found at Earth Fare)
2 TBSP sherry vinegar
1/2 cup chopped fresh chives
Freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup green onions
Directions
Place the potatoes and 2 tablespoons of salt in a large pot of water. Bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, until the potatoes are barely tender when pierced with a knife.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, pimento chevre, chives, green onions, vinegar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of pepper. Set aside.
When the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them in quarters or in half, depending on their size. While the potatoes are still warm, pour enough dressing over them to moisten. Toss well, cover, and refrigerate for a few hours to allow the flavors to blend.
You can find more of here recipes, and even order some of her goat cheese, at bellechevre.com.
Huntsville House Fire
04/09/2012
HUNTSVILLE, Ala-
A WW11 veteran's home was destroyed by a fire around 10:30am Saturday morning.
The house belongs top Mel Johnson who shared the home with his wife and daughter.
A lawn crew noticed the smoke and called the fire department.
With quick work from Huntsville fire department, they were able to get the blaze under control…but not before many of the family's belonging were charred.
The Johnson’s neighbors are all offering their support.
“As of right now, we do know that they are insured, which is a great thing. And believe it or not, their insurance agent lives right next door to them so the process was started very quickly,” said neighbor Justin Crisler.
A WW11 veteran's home was destroyed by a fire around 10:30am Saturday morning.
The house belongs top Mel Johnson who shared the home with his wife and daughter.
A lawn crew noticed the smoke and called the fire department.
With quick work from Huntsville fire department, they were able to get the blaze under control…but not before many of the family's belonging were charred.
The Johnson’s neighbors are all offering their support.
“As of right now, we do know that they are insured, which is a great thing. And believe it or not, their insurance agent lives right next door to them so the process was started very quickly,” said neighbor Justin Crisler.
Florence Students Make Dresses For Girls in Africa
04/09/2012
Florence Freshman Center student Shea Shockley has been busy the last few weeks sewing an Easter dress for someone in need.
"I'm grateful to have everything that I have like the clothes on my back and the roof over my head, so just doing something for someone that probably doesn't have all those things, is something very special," said Shockley.
She along with more than 40 other fashion design students at the school have sewn 50 dresses to send to girls in Africa.
Consumer Science Teacher Lisa Arnett said that the recycle-redesign project stemmed from an organization in Michigan called "Little Dresses for Africa".
"I'm grateful to have everything that I have like the clothes on my back and the roof over my head, so just doing something for someone that probably doesn't have all those things, is something very special," said Shockley.
She along with more than 40 other fashion design students at the school have sewn 50 dresses to send to girls in Africa.
Consumer Science Teacher Lisa Arnett said that the recycle-redesign project stemmed from an organization in Michigan called "Little Dresses for Africa".
"These little girls don't have multiple dresses to choose from on a daily basis," said Arnett. "They usually only have one pair of clothing and that garment is probably tattered and torn."
The dresses are made out of simple pillowcases. Each student was able to pick out a pillowcase and decorations that matched their style and personality.
"It makes me feel really good that I'm doing something for someone else," said Shockley. "I'll probably never get this chance every again, so it makes me feel really good that I got to help someone out."
Although this was the first year the class made the pillowcase dresses, Arnett said that this definitely will not be the last.
"A lot of these girls have never seen a sewing machine," said Arnett. "So this is the first time that they are even learning to sew, and to not only learn the skills to sew, but to sew for a purpose was a great experience for a lot of the students."
The dresses are made out of simple pillowcases. Each student was able to pick out a pillowcase and decorations that matched their style and personality.
"It makes me feel really good that I'm doing something for someone else," said Shockley. "I'll probably never get this chance every again, so it makes me feel really good that I got to help someone out."
Although this was the first year the class made the pillowcase dresses, Arnett said that this definitely will not be the last.
"A lot of these girls have never seen a sewing machine," said Arnett. "So this is the first time that they are even learning to sew, and to not only learn the skills to sew, but to sew for a purpose was a great experience for a lot of the students."
Immigration Law Revision
04/09/2012
Decatur, AL- The tough Alabama Immigration law may soon get even tougher. A revision to House Bill 256 was presented Thursday and legislators aren’t backing off the controversial law, they are making it stricter.
“It makes language that’s ambiguous more clear there’s some penalties that are a lot tougher. There are some things that were uncertain and causing confusion that we have been able to cleanup,” explained State Representative Phil Williams.
People who aren’t happy with the original bill, much less the revision, were in Senator Arthur Orr’s office today voicing their concerns.
“We just believe this is an ill-hearted bill and a law that needs to not be implemented,” said Rosa Calderon. She is with a group called All Races United and has been working to see the law overturned. During the meeting Calderon says she presented the argument that the new law has significantly damaged Alabama’s economy.
“Wayne’s Farm has a lot of Hispanic workers, my parents have been working there over 18 years, and he is losing his workforce. It’s not necessarily because they are illegal, it’s because some of their relatives may be undocumented and they are not going to risk being in this state.”
And business owners were also with the group speaking to Orr. Scott Brannan is a business owner and employees legal immigrants. He says through the years he has found that immigrants are very good employees.
“Hispanic folks, all they want to do is come out and work, get their checks and take care of their families. A lot of the other folks I have worked with they just want a paycheck they really don’t want to do the work,” he explained.
One of the revisions gives officers the authority to not only check the status of someone they pull over, but their passengers as well. The revision does however remove the provision that the status of children must be verified before they can attend school. Williams says the legislature is standing behind the law because it’s what’s best for Alabama.
“It’s not going to go away. We have a problem in Alabama that the federal government has failed in immigration reform so it’s leaving the states on their own to try to figure out how will we deal with this.”
“It makes language that’s ambiguous more clear there’s some penalties that are a lot tougher. There are some things that were uncertain and causing confusion that we have been able to cleanup,” explained State Representative Phil Williams.
People who aren’t happy with the original bill, much less the revision, were in Senator Arthur Orr’s office today voicing their concerns.
“We just believe this is an ill-hearted bill and a law that needs to not be implemented,” said Rosa Calderon. She is with a group called All Races United and has been working to see the law overturned. During the meeting Calderon says she presented the argument that the new law has significantly damaged Alabama’s economy.
“Wayne’s Farm has a lot of Hispanic workers, my parents have been working there over 18 years, and he is losing his workforce. It’s not necessarily because they are illegal, it’s because some of their relatives may be undocumented and they are not going to risk being in this state.”
And business owners were also with the group speaking to Orr. Scott Brannan is a business owner and employees legal immigrants. He says through the years he has found that immigrants are very good employees.
“Hispanic folks, all they want to do is come out and work, get their checks and take care of their families. A lot of the other folks I have worked with they just want a paycheck they really don’t want to do the work,” he explained.
One of the revisions gives officers the authority to not only check the status of someone they pull over, but their passengers as well. The revision does however remove the provision that the status of children must be verified before they can attend school. Williams says the legislature is standing behind the law because it’s what’s best for Alabama.
“It’s not going to go away. We have a problem in Alabama that the federal government has failed in immigration reform so it’s leaving the states on their own to try to figure out how will we deal with this.”
Practice Report: Scrimmage #1
04/03/2012
The University of Alabama football team held its first scrimmage of the spring on Saturday. Coach Saban was pleased with the way the team worked.
Here's what you need to know: