The powerful Alabama teacher's lobby is moving to fire its executive secretary, Henry Mabry. The Alabama Education Association board announced the action Saturday morning. The move came after a financial audit requested by the AEA board raised concerns about Mabry's financial management of the organization. Mabry issued a statement to the Montgomery Advertiser and said he enjoyed his time working for educators of the state.
GOP Opposition
Some Alabama Republicans say a multi-million dollar tax and revenue package being proposed by Governor Robert Bentley will face opposition in the GOP dominated state legislature. The governor said he will ask legislators to approve a $700 million tax hike to maintain state services. However, GOP Representative Paul Beckman of Prattville says legislators will not rubber stamp the governor's proposals. The governor is expected to discuss his tax hike proposals in his March 3rd State of the State Address. He also said the tax plan will not require voter approval.
Patrols Increase
More state troopers will be on patrol across Alabama following a law enforcement reorganization. Officials at the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency say 21 new state troopers will be working roadways across the state after their recent graduation from a training center in Selma. It is the first trooper class to graduate since 2010. A total of 289 troopers were assigned to highway patrols in 2014. That's significantly less than the 871 troopers recommended in a recent study by the University of Alabama.
Teenager Shot
A Wetumpka teenager is fighting for his life in a Montgomery hospital. Montgomery Police said the teen, whose name was withheld, was shot early Sunday morning in the 5700 block of Gas Light Curve. Police have not released the circumstances surrounding the shooting. It is also unknown whether police made an arrest.
ASU Award
Dr. Tommie Stewart, Dean of the Alabama State University College of Visual and Performing Arts, will be in Washington, D.C. Tuesday to receive the coveted Champion of Change award. Dr. Stewart and 11 other honorees will receive the award at the White House. The White House created the Champion of Change award to single out individuals who do extraordinary things to empower and inspire their communities.