Alabama is leading the South in providing health insurance to children, so says a study by Georgetown University's Health Policy Institute. The study found that Alabama had nearly 11,000 fewer uninsured children in 2013 than in 2011. The main sources of coverages are the All Kids program, Medicaid and private health insurance. Alabama ranked 10th Best among the states. The director of the Georgetown study said Alabama is the star of the south when it comes to providing health care to its children.
Children Recovering
The two children in Elmore County who were critically injured in separate incidents this week remain hospitalized in Birmingham. The father of 8-year-old Raven Edwards said his daughter remains in critical condition at Children's of Alabama hospital in Birmingham. The girl was struck by a car Wednesday morning near her school bus stop on Deatsville Highway. Raven's father is urging the community to pray for her recovery.
A 3-year-old boy who was attacked by a pit bull Wednesday afternoon in the Titus community is also undergoing treatment at Children's hospital. The child sustained severe facial injuries and will undergo cosmetic surgery. The boy's family said he is expected to survive.
Camellia Bowl
ESPN officials say they are pleased with the preparations for the inaugural Raycom Media Camellia Bowl set to kick off December 20th in Montgomery. During an update to the media, the Senior Vice President of ESPN Events Pete Derzis complimented city, county and regional leaders on their efforts. He says the bowl game benefits ESPN and its host city. It was announced that the MVP trophy for the matchup will be named after Pro Hall of Famer and Alabama Football legend Bart Starr. ESPN will carry the contest at 8:15 p.m. on Saturday, December 20th.
Hubbard Support
Republicans are sticking by Mike Hubbard as their choice for house speaker despite his indictment on ethics charges. 72 House Republicans met behind closed doors at the Alabama Cattlemen Association Thursday and voted to support Hubbard for another term. The Auburn Republican has maintained his innocence and said he sees no reason to give up his leadership role. The GOP Caucus did not announce the vote split.
Democratic Meeting
Alabama House Democrats also met Thursday for their organizational meeting and voted to retain Representative Craig Ford of Gadsen as minority leader for the next four years. Selma legislator Darrio Melton was elected caucus chair. Representative Barbara Boyd of Anniston was elected caucus vice chair.