Federal officials are tracking those who have been in close contact with the first person to be diagnosed in the United States with Ebola. While that case is in Texas, Alabama Public Health officials are making sure hospitals and doctor's offices across the state are carrying out the correct protocols. Assistant State Health Officer Dr. Mary McIntyre says the United States is much better equipped to contain the disease and prevent a widespread outbreak like that in West Africa.
State Fires
Alabama's fire marshal says 69 people have died in fires in Alabama so far this year. Fire Marshal Ed Paulk says 28 of those fatalities occurred in January. October has been declared as "Fire Prevention Month." The fire marshal and the Alabama Association of Fire Chiefs are encouraging people to plan and practice an escape route from their homes in case of a fire. They also point out that a working smoke alarm cuts the risk of a home fire fatality in half.
Ross Contract Approved
The Alabama Ethics Commission has approved of a state senator's $25,000 contract with the city of Montgomery to help with youth activities planned for next year's 50th anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery voting rights march. The ethics panel approved the contract Wednesday for state Senator Quinton Ross of Montgomery. The six-month contract calls for $25,000 in payments to Ross, plus he could received an additional $5,000 for meeting the contract's goals.
Awaiting Sentencing
A Montgomery man awaits a sentencing hearing after he was found guilty of shooting an innocent bystander on Collinwood Avenue in November 2012. 24-year-old Addarius James was convicted Tuesday of attempted murder. Montgomery County District Attorney Darryl Bailey said the bystander was in a coma for two months and has since recovered. Bailey said James was shooting at another man when the bystander was shot. James will be sentenced October 17th.