A national charity evaluator has awarded the Montgomery Area Food Bank with a 4-Star Quality rating. Charity Navigator has recognized the local non profit for its financial stewardship and day-to-day operations. Grant writer with the Montgomery Area Food Bank, Al Bloom, says the recognition will continue to build contributors' faith in the organization. The Montgomery Area Food Bank is partnering with Alabama State University on March 15th for the empty bowls project to feed families across the River Region.
Prison Changes
Governor Bentley has hired a consulting group to make drastic changes at Julia Tutwiler Prison. The all-female lockup has been thrust into the national spotlight over accusations of widespread sexual misconduct. The Governor hired the Moss Group, a Washington, D.C. based firm. The company will work on policies, assessments, training and other matters at the prison in Wetumpka.
Common Core
State School Superintendent Dr. Tommy Bice is lashing out at a bill pending in the Alabama Senate that would allow local school boards to opt out of the much debated Common Core educational standards. Bice tells Al.com that the legislation authored by Republican Senator Scott Beason of Jefferson County does nothing to quote, "ensure students graduate prepared for the workplace or college." Beason has been an outspoken opponent of Common Core standards in public schools.