Wet / Dry Vote to be held Tuesday, May 11th

By Daniel L. Bamberg

Daniel@Centrevillepress.com

Last week, during session, Brent and Centreville both passed resolutions to set an official date for a vote to occur within those cities pertaining to whether or not citizens want the towns to continue the prohibition of alcohol sales or to allow alcoholic products to be sold within those city limits. Citizens of these bordering towns recently presented petitions with more than enough signatures to display a civic consensus large enough to support a vote. 

Brent and Centreville council members made a decision to hold a simultaneous vote as the petition was making its rounds.  The vote will take place in Brent and Centreville on Tuesday, May 11^th.  According to Brent Mayor Dennis Stripling this was in order to keep citizens from being confused.  Brent and Centreville commerce run so close to one another that the cities often make decisions like these in order to better accommodate their citizens. 

Citizens of Brent will need to go to the Brent City Hall to cast their votes and citizens of Centreville will need to vote at Centreville City Hall.  The polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. 

Brent and Centreville have both stated they had more than the necessary amount of signatures as confirmed citizens on the petition.  Centreville needed 180 signatures and received 204.

Brent needed 100 signatures and received 103.

Mayor Stripling explained that the reason both cities decided to hold this vote separate from the June primaries was also in order to accommodate citizens.  “With the vote being one of these two municipalities rather than the entire county, we believed there might be too much confusion if we held it in June,” explained Stripling. 

According to councilmen and the mayors for both towns, if the vote passes this will not result in immediate alcohol sales.  Stripling estimates 2 to 3 months before Brent would sell its first alcoholic beverage.  The cities must approve requests from individuals seeking a license to sell as well as set laws and guidelines pertaining to where and how a retailer can distribute such items. 

 

Will State Create Shorter School Year?

By Daniel L. Bamberg

Daniel@Centrevillepress.com

The Alabama legislature is currently considering two bills offering to lessen the number of days Alabama public schools are required to remain open.  These bills, if signed into law, may save money.  Many schools are currently facing strict budget cuts, which may lead to layoffs. 

The only other option seems to be increasing classroom size.  Current averages suggest classrooms average around 20 students for grades 4-12.  According to Alabama House Speaker Seth Hammett, if legislatures do not do one or the other as many as 3,500 teachers and 7,000 of other personnel could be laid off.  Representative Richard Lindsey, who is pushing the bill, suggests increasing classroom size is a “last resort.”

The idea of saving money seems to come from the fact that teacher’s salaries are based on how many days they work in a year.  Reducing the number of days they work from 180 to 175 might be enough to allow the schools to survive an increasing economic crisis.  Having these school buildings closed for 5 more days should also reduce expenses. 

Lindsey has created another bill which, if signed into law, would give local school systems the option of using state money intended for building new schools and other capital projects to be used for normal operating expenses. 

State Superintendent Joe Morton expressed that increasing the school year to 180 days was a big leap forward for Alabama schools, which had been behind on the National average before then.  Moving to a 175-day school year would bring Alabama back under the National average.  Lindsey is expected to have a budget proposal ready by Wednesday, March 24^th.  

Child Abduction Bill Passes Senate

House Bill 213 by Representative Cam Ward (R-Alabaster) today passed the Alabama Senate and is on the way to the Governor’s office for his signature into law.  Known as the Uniform Child Abduction Prevention Act, this measure, which Rep. Ward authored with Sen. Marc Keahey (D-Grove Hill) as the Senate sponsor, is aimed at preventing child abductions in the state of Alabama. 

Former Supreme Court Justice Gorman Houston assisted Representative Ward in getting the bill through the House. Justice Houston testified on behalf of the bill before the House Judiciary Committee. Rep. Ward thanked Justice Houston and Senator Keahey for their efforts. “Having a respected jurist like Justice Houston on board was invaluable to the passage of the bill. As a former prosecutor, Senator Keahey has firsthand knowledge of child abductions, and his sponsorship in the Senate made final passage of this bill possible,” Rep. Ward said.

The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention estimates over 250,000 children are abducted annually with approximately 73% abducted by a family member. While current Alabama law addresses initial child custody determination as well as criminal repercussions for child abductions, this act clarifies the procedure for Courts to follow to protect the child and all parties. 

“Although we already have good laws in place in regard to child abductions, the legislature needs to set some specific guidelines for the judicial system to ensure that our children are as safe and secure as possible. This bill will do that,” Rep. Ward stated”

Rep. Ward was elected to the Alabama House of Representatives in 2002 to represent District 49, which includes parts of Bibb and Shelby Counties. Mr. Ward, his wife Julie and daughter Riley live in Alabaster.

 

Wet / Dry Vote

This morning we were informed that the Wet / Dry vote will in fact occur. Centreville and Brent will both be passing a resolution next week to hold a vote in those cities allowing citizens to decide whether Brent and Centreville can sell alcohol within the city limits. Full story next week!

Fondren Enters Guilty Plea

Tony Fondren of Pondville entered a guilty plea to charges of 2nd degree and 3rd degree assault, this morning in Bibb County Court. Fondren faced these charges in an incident which occured last year between Bibb County Board of Education Superintendent, Don Elam and himself.
For more information on this story including the sentencing and comments from the parties involved please read the May 17th edition of the Centreville Press.

Fire at Shady Oaks ignites more questions

By Daniel L. Bamberg
Daniel@Centrevillepress.com
On top of everything going on at Shady Oaks Estates in West Blocton, a fire at trailer #18 has brought up more questions about what several residents have labeled “negligence” on the part of the property owner.
“Thankfully this happened in the morning while my children and I were gone,” said Gerald Davis of West Blocton “It could easily have happened last night.” On Friday, February 26th the trailer he was renting caught fire consuming nearly everything they owned, including the family dog, Daisy.
Davis, an Assistant Manager for Express Oil Change was at work when the blaze occurred. His two daughters who live with him were attending school.
Greenpond Fire Department along with West Blocton Fire Department responded to the call, which came in at approximately 9:30 a.m. According to GFD Lieutenant Ben Rawls it was too late to save the trailer once they arrived. Both fire departments were however able to stop the fire from spreading to adjacent lots.
A man referred to as “Kenny” is apparently the maintenance man used by the trailer park. This is according to Davis, Betty McRee and other residents of Shady Oaks. “We have been told by numerous people who live here (in the park) that Kenny is not a certified electrician and that he takes dangerous short cuts,” said Davis’ mother, McRee.
Davis explained, “Kenny” was working on the wiring in the kitchen the night before the fire. According to Davis firefighters told him they believed the fire occurred in the kitchen. Rawls stated he was going to rule the cause as “undetermined” in his report.
A state fire investigator was originally called to the scene. Some time later, Rawls stated, “The investigator just called me and told me there did not appear to be any criminal activity so he’s not coming to investigate.” According to the Code of Alabama Section 36-19-5; “The assistants to the Fire Marshal shall investigate the cause, origin and circumstance of every fire occurring in any municipality or place in this state by which property has been destroyed or damaged, to determine, so far as it is possible, whether the fire was the result of carelessness or design. Such investigation shall be begun immediately upon the occurrence of the fire by the assistant in whose territory such fire has occurred; and, if it appears to the officer making the investigation that such fire is of suspicious origin, the Fire Marshal shall be immediately notified of such fact.”
State Fire Marshal Edward Paulk was notified with questions as to why the investigator did not come to the scene. He was also read Section 36-19-5 in Code of Alabama. “We have 20 investigators and our jurisdiction is statewide. There are over 1,000 fire departments in Alabama – because of this we must prioritize our calls. Those of highest priority involve death or destruction of public property,” explained Paulk. “In this case there didn’t appear to be any criminal activity. We were informed by the firefighters that it was of electrical origin, and so there was no reason to stop everything to get out there,” Paulk further explained.
Rawls, had informed the press that the cause and origin were undetermined. According the State Fire Marshal, it had been determined of electrical origin. This contradiction was relayed to Paulk who suggested there was a difference in what could be proven in a court of law and be determined by a firefighter at a scene. In so many words he explained that “undetermined” doesn’t necessarily imply there isn’t a determined origin.
Paulk was informed of the suggestion that an uncertified electrician had worked on the wiring in the kitchen the previous evening. “If that is true then that is a violation of State Law,” Paulk stated.
Finally Paulk was asked if the “busy investigator” was working a fire currently, or if there was something pressing which kept him from investigating the situation at Shady Oaks. “I don’t know what he is doing today but I assure you he is working and is busy. Investigations involve more than just going to a fire,” Paulk responded.
McRee was watching Davis’ children the night before the fire, while “Kenny” was working on the wiring. According to her he was drinking Busch beer while performing the electrical work. “Just before he left I told him I smelled wire burning, but his wife (who was with him) said she didn’t smell anything and that was it.”
Shady Oaks property owner, Ricky Shaw offered Davis and his children another trailer. “After dealing with all of the problems here in the short amount of time we lived at Shady Oaks, I am leaving. I was moving this weekend anyway. I already have another place. This was only temporary,” said Davis. It was also explained by both Davis and McRee that Shaw had mentioned he would open up a trailer to store any items donated by anyone to help the family. Shaw also contacted the local Red Cross office.
When Shaw was asked about the credentials of the man who worked on the wiring, he replied, “I have nothing to say to you at all, about anything.” According to former resident of Shady Oaks, Tabitha Fenn this was the third fire to occur on the properties in less than two years. Fenn also explained that every fire is believed to be of electrical origin.

Family of Willie Gardner presented medals

By Daniel L. Bamberg
Daniel@Centrevillepress.com
“We will never be able to do enough to honor the sacrifice he made for his country,” said Bibb County U.S. Veteran’s Affairs Officer Roger Kinard on Friday afternoon. Kinard and the V.A. office presented the family Sp. 4 Willie Gardner Junior with a framed case display of every medal and badge the local hero earned for his service. The actual metals and badges are in the family’s possession but this gift was a re-order of each decoration specifically for the purpose of honoring the local hero’s service.
It has been nearly 40 years since Gardner was killed after volunteering to lead a team through the jungle in Vietnam.
“I am sure some of that time has gone by quickly and other parts of it have gone by slowly as you’ve thought about him since his passing,” said Kinard.
A plague mounted on the display reads. “In memory of Specialist 4, Willie Gardner Jr. Company C 1st Battalion 46th Infantry 23rd Infantry Division.” Kinard also presented the family with a note expressing “how much we appreciate his sacrifice.” He didn’t read it aloud.
Last year, Haysop Creek Bridge in Brent was named “Sp.4 Willie Gardner, Jr. Memorial Bridge.” Gardner became the first black soldier to have a structure named after him in Bibb County.
Gardner was posthumously awarded the Silver Star, Bronze Star, two Purple Hearts, Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Combat Infantry Badge. He also earned qualification badges for standard combat rifle, automatic rifle, grenade, pistol, and machine gun. These awards are displayed in the case. Today young nieces and nephews who have only seen his charming smile in a now locally famous Army photo refer to him as Uncle Willie. His family has certainly never forgotten him as he is not only a permanent pride for they, but for an entire community.

Thursday Night fire on Endgate Pass under investigation

By Daniel L. Bamberg
Daniel@Centrevillepress.com
Alissa Rutledge was in the hospital being treated for phenomena. Her husband was out of town tending to a death in the family. Meanwhile on Friday morning February 26th,the couple’s residency at 823 Endgate Pass was being consumed by fire. They lost everything they owned, except for Alissa’s car, which was parked in a detached garage and some items in a shed.
No official cause of the fire has been determined but State Fire Marshals are conducting an investigation. Alissa was not made aware that she had lost her home until after she was released from the hospital on Friday morning. “I am not even sure what is really going on right now. Nobody contacted me and I haven’t been told anything. I want to know what happened and what I’m supposed to do but I’m still recovering from phenomena and nobody knows anything about the fire,” Alissa explained, her tired voice attempting to drown out the congestion.
The Bibb County Chapter of the American Red Cross was notified and provided Alissa a three nights stay at a hotel and a voucher to purchase her children some clothes. “The Red Cross has helped me but that’s all the help we are getting right now,” she explained. If you would like to help Alissa and her children please contact your local Red Cross by calling local Executive Director Mary Kinard (205) 987-2792.

Councilmen in good spirits, anticipate wet/dry vote

By Daniel L. Bamberg
Daniel@Centrevillepress.com
Centreville Mayor Tommy Bamberg has been dealing with some personal health issues recently, but that hasn't kept him from conducting city business. Bamberg and the Centreville City Council were in good spirits as they began their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, February 16th. There are many possible changes coming into the city and it appeared the powers that be were ready to meet the issues head on.
A petition has been making its rounds across the cities of Brent and Centreville. This request is presenting those cities with a desire from some residents for a vote to adopt an ordinance, which allows the sale of alcohol within the city limits. It has been nearly 15 years since the last countywide vote for repealing prohibition. The vote was close enough to validate a recount, but in the end voters kept Bibb County dry. Whether it is from the change in generations or the current economic state, it appears to some that this ordinance may be in place soon. Centreville is not ready to assume that it will happen, but council members seem to be of the opinion that the sale of alcohol in Brent and Centreville is very possible.
"The law has changed so that a city of 1,000 citizens or more can vote on its own without the whole county. What we are anticipating is Brent and Centreville both having a vote," explained councilman Ken Cottingham. "I believe there will be a vote," said Mayor Bamberg. Several brief discussions occurred regarding what restrictions the city would consider if the vote occurred and the sale of alcohol was allowed County business owner richer while the county continues to become poorer. Whatever the outcome and whether or not there is a vote, members of the Centreville City Council are getting prepared.
Members of the council are concerned with where the money normally given to the original park board will go under the new county mandated park boards. Previously the money was given to Linda Lavendar who is now a member of the South Bibb County Park Board. According to City Clerk Stephanie Scott, Lavendar is now contributing that money to the county park board. "If we are paying out money I would rather use it on our park (Cahaba River Historical Park)," said Councilman Chuck Martin. "The money paid by Brent and Centreville needs to come back to Brent and Centreville. We are the ones who put the money in there, we should get the money to spend on our parks," explained Cottingham. "Because it's not county money," remarked Martin. "No, it is city money," Cottingham agreeably expressed.
Cottingham suggested two solutions to clarify the situation. He first proposed that a letter be composed and sent to Lavendar expressing the intent of the city for any remaining money they (may have left. His other suggestion was for Mayor Bamberg to sit down with Brent Mayor Dennis Stripling in order to come to a mutual idea of how money for co-supported parks would be handled. There was no official decision made; the conversation was only that of concern and need for clarification.
A property owner has approached the city with a plan to trade a piece of land Centreville is interested in for city acreage. Mayor Bamberg was concerned with the amount of land they are asking for the amount of land they are offering. Cottingham explained that trades like these are typically based on value not necessarily acreage. He suggested that the city needs to look into the value and potential future value of the portions of land in question before furthering the conversation. Council members and the mayor agreed with Cottingham.
Martin mentioned a new law currently making its way through the Senate, which would prohibit motorists from using their cellular phones to send text messages while operating a vehicle. "It looks like it may pass, but if it doesn't..," Mayor Bamberg cut Martin off with his own dislike for what has become a serious problem on the roadway. Other members of the council also interjected similar thoughts. It seemed, however, that Martin wants the city to adopt an ordinance restricting "texting while driving" if this doesn't become a federal or state restriction. Currently there are no logical estimations regarding how many accidents are caused from text messaging, being that text messaging is a relatively new technology. There have, however, been several accident stories in the news over the past year or more, which have implied the cause, was text messaging. "I don't understand why somebody would try to drive and text at the same time," said Councilman Kenny Hicks. "I mean, I am not real smart,” he said before being interrupted. "I hope you are, you fly an airplane," Cottingham replied with a chuckle. "Why would you take the time to send a text message when you can just pick up the phone and be done with it?" Cottingham looked at Hicks and explained, "We're being left behind, buddy."

Brent PD on cutting edge of search for missing children

Brent Chief of Police Terry Nichols recently formalized an agreement with the “A Child is Missing Alert Program.” This decision has allowed the placement of a high tech method to search for missing persons including children, the elderly, and those who are mentally or physically challenged. The program will be effective by March 15, 2010.
Upon receipt of a missing persons call, the Brent Police Department will make its first phone call to a toll-free number of the ACMAP headquarters in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
A rotating staff of Information and Mapping Technicians operate around the clock and throughout the year. When the call comes in, the technician initiates a rapid process of information gathering and use of state of the art mapping systems. The organization then launches thousands of calls within minutes through an alert message, which details the description and last known whereabouts of the missing person. Any other pertinent information is also provided. This alert message will also include Brent Police Department’s phone number for use by anyone with information relating to the missing person.
The program is a free service to law enforcement. Officials of Brent PD will evaluate potential activation of the ACMAP to ensure the application is appropriate to the case and to ensure the system is optimally used. Policies, procedures, and employee training will also guide the most efficient and effective use of this alert program.
Telephone numbers that are called by this program include listed numbers in the selected area, but do not include cell phone numbers, unlisted numbers, or TDD/TTY (telecommunications device for the deaf/ teletypewriter) devices. These numbers can be added to ensure they too are called in the event of an alert. To enter your cell phone number, unlisted number, or TDD/TTY device visit www.achildismissing.org and click “add your name.” Once prompted enter your name, number and address. ACMAP insists this information will only be used for emergency message alerts.
A Child Is Missing is a nationwide non-profit organization that helps law enforcement agencies locate missing persons. The group utilizes their programs to place 1,000 alert phone calls in one minute to residents and businesses in the area where someone has gone missing. Currently the program has been credited with more than 660 safe assisted recoveries.

Tigers fight valiantly in eventual loss to Choctaws

West Blocton High School hosted 3 games on their own baseball diamond Saturday. The Tigers squared off against Hale County High School in a 10 a.m. match-up which they would eventually lose 13-2, but they would have a shot at their in-county rival, Bibb County High School before the day was finished.
Following the West Blocton versus Hale County game BCHS faced off against Hale. The Choctaws would crush Hale County 23 - 7. Immediately following this game West Blocton took the field against the Choctaws.
Early in the West Blocton game the Choctaws struggled at the plate while West Blocton was able to knock in a few runs for an early lead. Bibb County's bats would eventually get hot again as the Choctaws eventually pulled off the win 13-3. Caleb Smith, Justin White and Daniel Scarpelli contributed RBIs for for the Tigers. On the other side, Bibb County earned serious run support from a combined 4 home runs. The round trippers came from the bats of Brett Seales (who hit 2), Jalen Goree and Darren Whatley. Goree, also hit two homeruns in the previous game against Hale County giving him three for the day. Whatley also homered in the Hale County game giving him two for the day.
Bibb County's Darren Whatley earned the victory over Blocton. The loss was credited to the Tigers' Daniel Scarpelli.
The Choctaws currently hold a 12-3 record on the season. West Blocton is currently 7-8. For more on the week in high school baseball please read this week's edition of the Centreville Press, available on Wednesday March 10th.

Choctaws and Tigers Baseball

Relay For Life - Paint For A Cure

The Bibb County Chapter of The American Cancer Society's "Relay For Life" invites you to join them this Monday, March 8th, from 6pm - 8pm, at West Blocton Elementary School for an exciting and creative fundraiser supporting the charity, called "Paint For A Cure."

Similar to the popular Sips N Strokes, during this event, each participant will be shown how to paint their own version of the Heart of Relay painting (There are now 2 versions from which to choose).

To see the original version, click on the link below:

http://relay.acsevents.org/site/DocServer/Relay_Painting.doc?docID=131467

Space is limited, so PLEASE reserve your spot today and for further information by contacting Lindsay Hubbard at 477-4623 or 316-0199 or lhubbard117@gmail.com.

House Candidates Applaud Bibb County Sheriff's Party Swap

By Daniel L. Bamberg

Daniel@Centrevillepress.com

Bibb County Sheriff Keith Hannah has already made a splash in his short time as a Republican.  Jim McClain, President of the Alabaster City Council and Republican candidate for Alabama House of Representatives District 49 (which includes Bibb County) has released a statement regarding Hannah's switch.

"Another former Democrat has seen the light and switched parties to become a member of the G.O.P.  We welcome Bibb County Sheriff Keith Hannah to the Republican Party.  It appears that Sheriff Hannah, like so many other conservatives, can no longer call himself a Democrat in good conscience," explained McClain.

It should be noted, however, that Keith Hannah has not, in any public record familiar to the Centreville Press, identified himself as a conservative. There are many Republicans who do not consider themselves conservatives just as many Democrats do not consider themselves liberal.

Bibb County Republican Party Chairman, Bob Jamison explained Hannah’s decision to swap parties did not exactly line up with McClain’s coming to “the light” comment.  “Keith and I talked for many months before he made the decision to change parties.  Sheriff Hannah basically told me his views seemed to be more in line with what our party believes in,” Jamison suggested.

Local Republican candidate, April Weaver, who is also running for Alabama House of Representatives District 49, also released a statement regarding Hannah's switch.  "Sheriff Hannah has been a close friend to me and my family for over twenty years.  He and I have been talking for several months about him switching parties and becoming a member of the GOP.  I am delighted that he has made the switch and look forward to working with him on his bid for reelection," said Weaver.

"The Democratic Party has fallen out of favor with conservative and mainstream Americans for a reason.  Like a failed field goal attempt, Democrats have veered wide left in their policies by taxing and regulating the middle class with legislation like health care reform, cap and trade, and outrageous corporate bailouts.  And the Democratic leadership in Alabama has also drifted off course with its backroom deals and pandering to powerful special interests, leaving behind the will of the people," McClain expressed.

Weaver is currently ahead of McClain in campaign contributions.  Both candidates are vying for the Republican nomination of a spot vacated by the very popular Cam Ward (R), currently running for a State Senate seat vacated by Hank Erwin (R), currently running for Lieutenant Governor of Alabama.  In a recent press release it was revealed Weaver raised $29,860 in contributions while McClain's contributions totaled $7,350.

"I am so blessed to have such great community support and to have a wonderful grassroots campaign team behind me that played a very large role in raising the most money for my race," Weaver expressed.

"I feel good about my contributions so far.  As time goes on, other entities' interest will grow, and they will start lining up to support me," concluded McClain.

 * Photo - Bibb County Republican Executive Committee members pose with former Democrat turned Republican Bibb County Sheriff Keith Hannah.  The popular Sheriff made the official decision just weeks ago.  In a statement to the press Hannah explained, “This decision was something I thought about for a while.  There are different reasons but this was the best thing for me.”  (L to R) Bibb County Commissioner Al Green, Bibb County Republican Chairman Bob Jamison, Bibb County Sheriff Keith Hannah, Bibb County Probate Judge Jerry Pow, Bibb County Board of Education Official Mike Oakley, and Republican candidate for House of Representatives District 49, April Weaver. 

Senator Shelby Discusses National Concerns with Bibb County Citizens

By Daniel L. Bamberg

Daniel@Centrevillepress.com

He was still getting over his first sinus infection but that didn’t slow U.S. Senator Richard Shelby of Alabama from visiting Bibb County on Monday, February 22^nd.   Many of Bibb County’s most respected personalities were in attendance for the annual visit Shelby, a native of Tuscaloosa, has made since entering office. 

“I know many of you and it is always an honor to visit Bibb County,” Shelby said.  This was a positive note to begin Shelby’s brief address.  “I went to see Jim Oakley for my first re-election and he played a role in that.  When I ran in 2004, Bibb County gave me 70% of their vote.  I am in your debt.  I try to do what is best for this country I have no other agenda, and I have a place in my heart for Bibb County citizens,” Shelby expressed.
He began discussing the government health care plan, which is still being rigorously debated in our nation’s capital, and throughout the country.  “We thought this thing was dead.  Unfortunately, in Washington when something dies you have to bury it four or five times and then it still pops back up, but under another name,” the Senator explained.  “I have said many times publicly, we have the best health care system in the world.  It isn’t perfect but Obama wants to turn it all upside down.

“This Obama is going to create a media sensation by making it seem he is going to work with some of my colleagues on the finance committee.  I hope they don’t buy into it because he’s doing it to get his way.  So, we have to be real careful,” Shelby explained. “The Democrats could round this through the Senate and the House under what we call the reconciliation process, which is not made for that.  It could cost them the election but I am hoping this is costing them the election anyway.  We still have to be very aware of what is going on.”  Those words concluded the Senator’s remarks regarding the Obama health care plan. 

Shelby then addressed the economic recession.  “The economy’s tough.  We are in a worldwide recession.  The United States is in a recession, Japan is in a recession, Germany is in a recession, and Europe is in a recession.  We are going to have to grow out of this.  There is no easy way out,” Shelby expressed. 

The Senator went on to explain the unemployment rate.  According to Shelby, Bibb County’s unemployment was near 10%, and that was on par with the state and national average.  “In Michigan it’s 16%.  It is bad, but I don’t think the government can change our economy.  I know they would like to.  They want to borrow and spend, but everybody knows we spend too much, we borrow too much, and save too little,” he continued.

“The National debt is now nearly $14 trillion dollars.  It took 200 years to break through the ceiling of the first trillion dollars in 1982.  We are headed right down the road to economic disaster by hurting the value of the dollar and the value of everything that we have.  There is no easy answer to it, but we can’t keep borrowing and spending.”

Shelby then decided to address the government bailouts of banks and businesses.  “I was very outspoken with President Bush and then President Obama, regarding my disapproval for bailing out the banks, General Motors, Chrysler, AIG, among others.  They have to be allowed to fail.  There is no guarantee in a capitalist economy that something will not fail.  I have failed at many things and had to learn the hard way.  I believe most Americans have and don’t believe there should be exceptions.”  Those comments concluded Shelby’s comments regarding the economy.

Shelby then spoke on his optimism for the Republican Party in the upcoming elections.  “I believe the elections are going to be different this fall.  I don’t think it is going to change control of the Senate or House but we are going to pick up some seats unless something really changes”.  Shelby explained the many positions open for election and re-election in the State of Alabama. “Don’t forget the U.S. Senate race,” he remarked with a smile.  “I am running.  The Governor’s position is open.  Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, Treasurer, all the Legislature, you name it.  As I tell people in Alabama please vote but vote only once because we are not in Chicago.” Shelby concluded his address with those words. 

After taking a series of questions from various persons on hand Shelby told a story about his trying decision to become a Republican.  “When I was growing up I didn’t know what a Republican was, we were Democrats.  After I got elected to the House of Representatives I made some decisions that didn’t sit well with my party.  When Reagan was President I voted a lot with things he believed in.  One day my secretary informed me that President Reagan wanted to meet me to come to the White House for breakfast.  When you hear that, you aren’t so sure.  I had her call and confirm it, I thought it was a trick and Jim Oakley or someone else was in on it.  Maybe he wanted me to walk up to the White House thinking I was about to meet the president.  Maybe it was from another house member.  I was only 2 years in and we used to do those kinds of things to each other.

It wasn’t a trick and I came to meet President Reagan; it was an honor.  Reagan explained to me that he was a Democratic until they ran the taxes up to 90 percent.  He told me then that I needed to switch parties.  I told him I was going to try and help make the Democratic more conservative.  President Reagan looked at me and said ‘Good luck with that.’  When I finally made the decision to change parties, my breakfast with President Reagan was in my thoughts constantly,” Shelby concluded.

Before the sitting down for breakfast the Senator explained that after he had become a Republican President Reagan informed him, “You’ll sleep better.”. 

 

High speed paper chase results in arrest

By Daniel L. Bamberg

Daniel@Centrevillepress.com

44-year-old Chris Ballard of Montevallo, has apparently stolen headlines in more ways than one. He certainly made a commotion in Brent, as the U.S. Marshal federal fugitive task force chased him into the county on Tuesday, February 23^rd.

Ballard is believed to have stolen more than 100 newspaper boxes in Jefferson County.  According to U.S. Marshal Marty Keely, the alleged paper-box thief had been under surveillance by Deputy Marshals.  After police attempted to stop him, Ballard began fleeing on U.S. Highway 11 and was eventually being pursued by the Bibb County Sheriff’s Department and law enforcement officials from Brent, Centreville, Tuscaloosa, and West Blocton.  Tuscaloosa Sheriff’s Department also provided the assistance of a helicopter.

When Ballard passed a school bus he was believed to be traveling in excess of 90 miles per hour.  At another point, Ballard made a dangerous U-turn, which forced some police off of the road.  Eventually Ballard made his way onto U.S. Highway 5.  This would prove to be his last stand.  Not long thereafter Ballard’s vehicle (a green sport-utility vehicle) veered off the road near the Highway 219 junction, onto an embankment where it remained stuck.

The suspect was then arrested by Marshals and taken to the Jefferson County Jail.  According to Marshal Keely other police departments may have questions for Ballard as newspaper box thefts have also been reported in other counties.  Before the high-speed chase Ballard had an outstanding warrant for theft of a newspaper box in Birmingham.  

If I Were The Academy (My Nominations)

By Daniel L. Bamberg

Daniel@Centrevillepress.com

Many who read this may perhaps wonder why my opinion should matter. My opinion really doesn't matter. I am simply a journalist from a small town newspaper who may be one of the biggest film geeks on the planet. I've watched and studied more film than I care to count. There was once an attempt to rate every film I had ever seen. Not only was this a tedious task, but the resulting figures (just on a year by year basis) of how much time I had spent watching films was too much to take.

It is shocking that I have a life considering how much of it has been dedicated to wasting time with motion pictures. Yes, wasting time - because we all know most movies are not worth the film they take to shoot. With that being said I have decided to write a few opinions this week for this blog about the upcoming Academy Awards. In this posting, I will waste all of your time by listing who and what I believe should've been nominated with my choice for winner. * indicates who or what I believe earns the Oscar. Enjoy.

Best Picture

Inglorious Basterds *

"Quentin Tarantino's Masterwork. This is first class art cinema with enough cool to satisfy the hip elite. The performances throughout are stellar with the exception of the "Basterds" themselves, (Pitt and Roth) who are basically dark comic relief. The combination of a serious vengence tale combined with breaks of neurotic black comedy (as much as I feel strange to admit this) are reminiscent of Shakespeare. "Inglorious Basterds" is an inspired classic that I don't believe will be fully appreciated for some time." A+

Sin Nombre

"Fantastic and touching story telling with tremendous child acting and amazing cinematography. Far superior to many foreign films which have been given Academy nods this year or in the last decade. Easily one of the best films of 2010." A+

The Hurt Locker

"The closest I believe any film could bring an audience to actually being there. One of the most personal and emotional war films of all time. 'The Hurt Locker' vividly enhances the respect we should have for our soldiers." A+

Precious

"The hardest film (emotionally) I have watched since "Monster's Ball." The theme is heavy and the direction is personal and moving. 'Precious' contains some of the most amazing female performances I have seen in this or any year recently. The only flaw is the harsh theme which should not invite repeated viewing." A-

(500) Days of Summer

"The most original Romantic Comedy I have ever seen. Nothing is tired about this story and it won't go in the direction you'd expect. Joseph Gordon-Levitt delivers another outstanding performance in a career that has already stood out for his brave independence. Funny, realistic, and for its genre, all-out brilliant!" A-

Antichrist

"This film won't settle well with most viewers. It may be hard to understand the metaphor. Many will pass this off as torture-porn when in fact there is something much more important working beneath the surface and obvious to anyone who can get past the shocking visuals. This film is dangerous art and played brilliantly by two outstanding acting talents who slide into nameless roles the way hermit crabs exits mostly permanently in their shell. Rarely does a film come along so daring that it begs to be taught in every film education class possible (from acting to cinematography to direction to metaphorical story telling). This is an awe-inspiring work of art which only suffers from too many viewers missing the point." A-

The Missing Person

"Noir that a viewer can believe in. Rarely (if ever) has any film maker pulled off a more beleivable and welcoming crime thriller. Buschel is a talent to watch for." B+

Crazy Heart

"This story has been told before, and to its credit 'Crazy Heart' doesn't try too hard to be original for knowing that fact. It relies and relishes heavily on the key performances which seperate it from many of those before it. Jeff Bridges gives what may be the performance of his career by doing what he has done so remarkably for years, (becoming a role and allowing an audience to forget Jeff Bridges in on the screen.) B+

Gomorrah

"A sweeping and brutal epic which allows the backdrop to be its most important and looming character. The direction is superb. Gomorrah suffers from being preceded by 'City of God' (a superior similar film) but achieves tremendously by not trying too hard to be something it isn't." B+

The Soloist

"Jamie Foxx delivers the performance of his career in a film that explores schizophrenia without kid gloves. The Soloist is brave and touching. This is not a film for everyone's taste but holds an importance that should welcome any and all viewership." B +

Best Director

Quentin Tarrentino for Inglorious Basterds *

Kathryn Bigelow for The Hurt Locker

Cary Fukunaga for Sin Nombre

Noah Buschel for The Missing Person

Lars von Trier for Antichrist

Best Actor

Willem Dafoe for Antichrist *

Jeff Bridges for Crazy Heart

Jeremy Renner for The Hurt Locker

Morgan Freeman for Invictus

Joseph Gordon-Levitt for (500) Days of Summer

Best Actress

Melanie Laurent for Inglorious Basterds *

Sandra Bullock for The Blindside

Charlotte Gainsbourg for Antichrist

Helen Mirren for The Last Station

Gabourey Sidibe for Precious

Best Supporting Actor

Woody Harrelson for The Messenger

Christopher Plummer for The Last Station

Jamie Foxx for The Soloist

Christoph Waltz for Inglorious Basterds

Zachary Quinto for Star Trek

Best Supporting Actress

Mo'Nique for Precious *

Amy Adams for Sunshine Cleaning

Penelope Cruz for Nine
Amy Ryan for The Missing Person
Diane Kruger for Inglorious Basterds

Best Original Screenplay
Sin Nombre *
Inglorious Basterds
The Hurt Locker
The Missing Person
Sunshine Cleaning

Best Adapted Screenplay
Precious  *
Gomorrah
The Soloist
The Last Station
Invictus

Best Animated Motion Picture
Up *
Avatar
Coraline

The Fantastic Mr. Fox
The Princess and the Frog

Best Cinematography
Sin Nombre *
Inglorious Basterds
Antichrist
The Hurt Locker
The Missing Person

Best Art Direction
Antichrist *
Sherlock Holmes
Nine
The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus

Star Trek

Best Costume Design
Sherlock Holmes *

The Young Victoria
Star Trek
The Imaginarium of Dr. Pasnassus
Inglorious Basterds

Best Film Editing
The Hurt Locker *
Avatar
Sin Nombre
Inglorious Basterds

Precious

Best Foreign Language Film
Sin Nombre *
Gomorrah
The Milk of Sorrow
The White Ribbon
A Prophet

Best Sound Editing
Public Enemies *
The Soloist
The Hurt Locker
Inglorious Basterds
Nine

Best Sound Mixing

Public Enemies  *

The Hurt Locker

Up

Avatar

The Soloist

Best Makeup
Star Trek *
The Young Victoria
II Divo

Best Original Score
The Soloist *
Avatar
The Hurt Locker
The Fantastic Mr. Fox
Sherlock Holmes

Best Visual Effects
Avatar  *
Star Trek
Paranormal Activity
Sherlock Holmes
District 9