The Alabama House has passed a bill that gives ministers, judges and others the right to refuse performing marriage ceremonies. The legislation passed on a 69 to 25 vote following nearly four hours of debate. Opponents of the bill claim it is unnecessary, since judges and clergy members already have the right to refuse to conduct wedding ceremonies. The bill's sponsor, Republican Representative Jim Hill of Moody maintains that it clarifies already existing law. Still other critics label the measure as discriminator against gay couples. It now moves to the Senate for consideration.
Possible Expansion
A South-Korean based media outlet is reporting that Hyundai is considering building a second U.S. auto assembly plant in Alabama. The information comes from Chosun Media, an English-based news web site. Chosun quotes an unnamed Hyundai executive who said the Korean-based automaker is exploring possible sites and exploring business conditions. Hyundai already operates a sprawling assembly plant in west Montgomery.
New Eateries
Three restaurants already familiar to Montgomery residents are opening new locations on Lower Dexter Avenue. Cuco's, Island Delight and Momma Goldberg's Deli will all be leasing space in the Foshee Management development that's being called the "market district." Cuco's will open first, within the next three to four weeks. Island Delight and Momma Goldberg's Deli are expected to open their new stores later in the year. Company President Golson Foshee says more retail development is on the way.
Investigation Ends
An Alabama official says a state agency closed an inquiry into whether the deal to publish Harper Lee's upcoming novel involved financial fraud. Some in Lee's hometown of Monroeville questioned whether the 88-year-old "To Kill A Mockingbird" author was capable of consenting to the second novel's publication. A longtime friend says she is mostly deaf, blind and in poor health. Alabama Securities Commission Director Joseph Borg said his agency reviewed the matter at the Department of Human Resources' request. Borg said Lee answered questions to an investigator's satisfaction, so they closed the file.