Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
March is Women's History Month!

Taxes and Gambling Bills Up for Vote Today

It could be contentious day at the Alabama Statehouse.  Lawmakers are scheduled to cast votes on taxes and gambling bills. The Alabama House will consider proposals to raise the state cigarette tax, increase the title fee on automobiles and a measure that would raise the business privilege tax on large businesses. In the Alabama Senate, a committee will hold a public hearing and vote on gambling legislation to allow a statewide lottery and casinos.  

Elderly Woman Attacked

An 18-year-old male is behind bars in connection with a violent attack on an elderly woman in west Montgomery.  Police said Tyrell Deshawn Moore is accused of beating the victim and using a belt to choke the woman in her home on Oak Street.  Police said the home invasion occurred about 7:30 Sunday morning.  Court documents stated the woman was seriously injured.  Moore was arrested Sunday night and charged with robbery and burglary.  A judge set bond at more than $500,000.  

Pre-K Program

Alabama's pre-kindergarten programs is receiving high marks for the ninth straight year.  Alabama is one of only five states to meet or exceed all benchmarks in the 2013-2014 school year.  The Alabama School Readiness Alliance says only 13 percent of 4-year-olds currently have access to pre-K programs.  Last month, the state Senate approved a $13.5 million increase for pre-K programs that would open another 145 classrooms and serve an additional 2,600 4-year-olds.  

Valiant Cross Academy

Montgomery's westside will be the home of a new private school for boys in the fall.  Valiant Cross Academy founded by brothers Anthony and Frederick Brock will open in August of 2015 with 30 sixth grade boys; co-founder Anthony Brock says the academy is aimed at African-American boys.  The program will begin with sixth grade and add a grade every year, depending on available funding.