Author: WAKA Action 8 News

Bentley to Deliver State of the State Address as Legislative Session Starts

Alabama lawmakers are beginning the 2016 legislative session on Groundhog Day to familiar budget woes, but could see some new debates this session as well. Legislators will hear a budget briefing Tuesday morning that is expected to include bleak outlook for the state’s general fund. Republicans and Democrats have introduced rival proposals to establish a state lottery. Lawmakers are also…

Golden Apple: Rhyanne Carrington

It’s time to award another deserving teacher with our Golden Apple Award. This week’s winner comes from a small private school in Montgomery. Do you have a recommendation for a great teacher we should recognize? To nominate a teacher for the Golden Apple award, click on the “Golden Apple” banner on our website and fill out the form. Categories: Golden…

SEC Primary Preps: Online Registration

The SEC Primary election is one month away.

The campaigning is in full effect as candidates spent the day vying for votes in Iowa. Back in Alabama, voters have mixed feelings when it comes to the candidates and the election. “I think we need to come together and remember what the United States mean… right now in my opinion it’s the ‘divided states,’” said Elijah Hood. “There are…

Federal Court Probing Police Chief in Excessive Force Case

The federal judge in the trial of an Alabama police officer who was acquitted of using excessive force on an Indian man says the court is probing whether the police chief and a captain violated an order against contacting witnesses. Judge Madeline Haikala said in an opinion Friday that several Madison police officers who testified for officer  said Police Chief…

One Injured in Bassett Drive Shooting

Montgomery Police say one man was injured Monday night in a shooting. Investigators say in shooting occurred on Bassett Drive. The victim was found in the 2100 block of East South Blvd with non-life-threatening injuries. Officials say no one in custody. Stay with Alabama News Network for the latest. Categories: News Tags: Montgomery Police, Shooting

Teachers of the Year Named in Montgomery Public Schools

Peter Crump Elementary teacher Dawn Ellis and Booker T. Washington Magnet High teacher John Conway have been named Montgomery Public Schools’ 2016-2017 Teachers of the Year. The two will represent the district in the Alabama Teacher of the Year Program. Ellis has been teaching special education for seven years and has been at Crump since 2010.  Ellis teaches all subjects…

Tallassee Police Looking for Suspected Purse Snatcher

Tallassee Police are investigating several thefts involving victims have purses stolen at local businesses. Police are reminding everyone to pay attention to their surroundings and to avoid leaving their belongings unattended while shopping. Investigators are searching for one suspect who was captured on video taking a wallet out of a shopping cart while the victim was only three feet away….

Bentley Seeks Prison Bond Issue, Pre-kindergarten Boost

Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley will use his State of the State address to lay out a plan for the state’s aging prison system that has come under scrutiny for overcrowding and violence. Bentley will propose a bond issue for prison construction to replace and consolidate existing prisons during his Tuesday night speech before lawmakers. The governor said in an interview…

UAB, Medical Center to Raise Hourly Minimum Wage to $11

The University of Alabama at Birmingham and its affiliated hospital system are planning to raise the hourly minimum wage for employees next month. UAB officials said in a statement Monday that the hourly minimum wage will rise to $11 starting with the pay period beginning on March 20. UAB officials say more than 1,100 employees will see the change reflected…

Gov. Robert Bentley Appoints Two to Alabama Ethics Commission

Gov. Robert Bentley has made two appointments to the Alabama Ethics Commission. AL.com reports Shelby County attorney Frank “Butch” Ellis Jr. and former Montgomery County Circuit Judge Charles Price were appointed to the five-member board last week. The appointments take effect upon confirmation by the state Senate. Ellis fills the seat vacated by Virginia Larkin Martin, who resigned in December, while…