Alabama Governor Robert Bentley says the state must solve a budget crisis to avoid deep cuts in government services. Bentley says he is seeking "fair minimal taxes" including a cigarette tax increase, changes to business privilege taxes, and either a soft drink tax or small changes to a state income tax deduction. Bentley says he believes voters are adamantly opposed to the funding cuts in state parks, Medicaid and mental health that will happen Oct. 1st without new revenue.
Flynn Arrest
Authorities say a man has been charged with one count of capital murder in the shooting death of a local Montgomery rapper. Multiple media outlets report police say Marquise Flynn was taken into custody by U.S. Marshals after turning himself in to his probation officer. Flynn has been charged in the death of 32-year-old Sylvester "Fathead" Morris. Police say Morris was shot and killed the night of June 28th on Berkley Drive. Police say their investigation led them to believe that Morris was killed during a robbery attempt, and Flynn was a suspect of interest. Flynn was transported to the Montgomery County jail, where he was being held without bond.
Army Cuts
The U.S. Army will cut 186 soldiers from Fort Rucker as the result of budget reductions. A spokesman for U.S. Rep. Martha Roby said the losses account for about six percent of the post's workforce. However, the reductions are lighter than those happening at Fort Benning in Georgia. The Dothan Eagle reports that current plan calls for the Army's total numbers to dip to 450,000 by next September.
All Star Week
Coaches and athletes converge on the city of Montgomery next week for the Alabama High School Athletic Association's All Star Sports week. Practices will be held Monday through Thursday with an All-Star game in football on Friday. Another practice day is set for July 20th followed by three days of All-Star games in baseball, softball, basketball, soccer and volleyball. Game times and sites can be found on the Alabama High School Athletic Association's website.