The Alabama Supreme Court has set a Jan. 21st execution date for a man convicted of rape and murder. The death sentence against Christopher Brooks would mark Alabama's first execution in more than two years. Brooks was convicted for the 1993 murder and rape of Deann Campbell of Homewood.
Legislative Lines
The attorney general's office said alternate legislative maps suggested by black legislators show that Alabama lawmakers made proper choices in drawing new district lines. State lawyers in a November court filing called the map "bizarre" and said it split communities of interest. The legal back and forth continued in court filing over the state's legislative lines. The U.S. Supreme Court Sent the case back to a three-judge panel for additional review. However, lawyers for black lawmakers said the state's current districts were drawn to hit "unlawful racial targets." Black members of the Alabama Legislature filed a federal lawsuit saying the existing map "stacked" black voters into designated districts, preventing them from influencing elections elsewhere. If the map is tossed, the state will have to draw new lines and hold new elections.
Screening Grant
Officials say a $100,000 grant will be used to fund health screenings for students in 17 Alabama counties. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs says the screenings are being funded by the Appalachian Regional Commission.
Turkey Dinner Giveaway
State Senator Quinton Ross, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and T.E.A.M 26 hosted their annual Thanksgiving Turkey Dinner Giveaway Tuesday. Baskets were distributed to 30 families in Montgomery; Senator Ross says the community is made better by helping those in need. This year marks the 12th year of the partnership's dinner giveaway. Senator Ross says Publix Supermarket is their largest sponsor.