Congresswoman Terri Sewell is asking the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate the closure of 31 Alabama driver's license offices.
Sewell sent a letter to Attorney General Loretta Lynch yesterday saying the closures disproportionately impact rural, African-American and poor communities.
Sewell says the closures will severely limit access to a state issued driver's license, the most popular form of photo identification used in voting.
Alabama Secretary of State John Merrill has stressed that Alabama citizens can obtain a Voter ID card at any county courthouse in the state.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Office recently announced it would pull workers from the part-time offices because of budget cuts. The closures impact the issuance of new licenses and permits. Statistics from ALEA show the offices issued anywhere from a few dozen to several hundred licenses and permits in 2014.
County workers will continue to handle renewal and replacement licenses.
Five to eight thousand Alabama third graders are about to get a close look at Native American culture.
These students are set to attend the Moundville Native American Festival this week. The festival will aim the spotlight at Southeastern Native American dance, crafts, music and food.
Betsy Irwin is the interim director for the Moundville Archaeological Park where the festival is being held. She says this four day event helps the community connect with important Native American culture.
“Our presenters really enjoy sharing their culture and their experiences with visitors, and we encourage them to ask questions. The goal is to really better everyone’s future – most especially our children- as they learn about cultural diversity, especially among Southeastern Indians.”
The festival starts tomorrow and runs until Saturday. The Moundville Archaeological Park is located 13 miles south of Tuscaloosa.
Eighth ranked Alabama is getting back to work as they host Arkansas Saturday. The Crimson Tide scored 35 unanswered points to defeat Georgia 38-10 in Athens.
Some might have written off the Crimson Tide after Alabama’s loss to Ole Miss. Now after a win at Georgia, Coach Nick Saban has a pretty clear message to the detractors.
“I’ve said before I believe in our team. Alright? and we’re going to work hard to make our team better. And I hope the players respond the right way. And It’s not going to be for you. The fans? Yes. Because if it was up to you, we’re six (feet) under already. We’re dead, buried and gone. Gone!”
Junior Derrick Henry was named the SEC Player of the Week after his 26 carry, 149-yard performance. Calvin Ridley was also named SEC Freshman of the Week after catching five passes for 120 yards and a touchdown. Kickoff for Saturday is set for 6 p.m. on ESPN.