Members of the newly appointed Alabama Public Charter Schools Commission gathered in Montgomery for an organizational meeting Thursday. Those present were given an overview on charter school legislation and what role the panel will play in the approval process. As its first act, the commission elected former Schools Superintendent Dr. Ed Richardson as its chairman. Applications for public charter school start-ups are due by February first of 2016. All approved applicants can begin their planning for opening in school year 2017-18.
Food Financing Act
The Alabama Legislature this year passed the Healthy Food Financing Act. The new law provides incentives to food stores to make healthy foods available for residents in so called "food deserts." Several groups are backing the effort including Alabama State University. ASU Physical Education Professor Connie Daecus says her students through a special project, located several communities that could be considered "food deserts." ASU has several healthy initiatives including the Gifted Gardeners Club. Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange was the first to sign a proclamation Thursday officially endorsing and supporting the act.
Chabliss Proposal
A Prattville state senator is proposing what he says is a middle ground approach to the state's budget crisis. Republican state Senator Clyde Chambliss has suggested a combination of temporary soda and cigarette taxes along with long-term budget reforms.
Truck Driver Arrest
State Troopers have now made an arrest in the fatal accident that occurred Wednesday on I-65 near the 194 mile marker. An inmate with the Alabama Department of Corrections was struck by a tractor-trailer rig while working on a road maintenance crew. The driver of the truck, 36-year-old Michael Landin of Lehigh Acres, Florida has been charged with Felony Leaving the Scene of an Accident. He has been placed in the Autauga County Jail under a $30,000 bond. Trooper say 21-year-old Braxton Darquail Moon of Alexander City was killed in the wreck that happened around 1:25 in the afternoon.