The Alcoholic Beverage and Control Board says it will close or consolidate 15 state liquor stores because of a budget cut. ABC Administrator Mac Gipson said in a news release that the Legislature moved $5.5 million from the ABC Board to the General Fund for the fiscal year that started Monday. The ABC Board submitted a budget request of about $77 million for fiscal year 2016. Gipson said that number was reducted by $3 million, which would have essentially meant level funding. But the$5.5 million transfer was then added to the budget on the last night of the second special session. The board will have 160 stores after the closings. The stores recommended for closing include three in Montgomery and one in Pike Road. The stores will close over the next three to six months.
Domestic Violence
Former Alabama first lady Dianne Bentley returned to the Alabama Capitol complex last night to participate in a candlelight vigil to remember victims of domestic violence. Bentley told the media that she is no longer first lady, but said she still wants to represent the state as a lady. Bentley said she will continue to support domestic violence issues and foster children programs.
Tom Brokaw
Longtime NBC anchor Tom Brokaw was the keynote speaker at Faulkner University's annual Benefit Dinner last night. The veteran journalist and writer called on Americans to follow examples set by the "greatest generation" to find common ground and solve lingering issues that includes conflicts in the Middle East to stopping mass shootings across the nation. The event was held at the Renaissance Convention Center in downtown Montgomery.
Hyundai Sales
Hyundai is reporting another record sales month. Hyundai joined other automakers Thursday to report double-digit sales gains for September in the U.S. market. Hyundai sales rose 14 percent while sister brand Kia sales jumped 23 percent last month. Ford's sales grew 23 percent, Nissan's 18 percent and Fiat Chrysler's nearly 14 percent. Sales at General Motors rose 12 percent, while Toyota posted a 16 percent gain and Honda's sales were up 13 percent.
Roby Opposition
A Tea Party leader in Elmore County is opposing Republican Congresswoman Martha Roby in Alabama's 2nd District. Wetumpka Tea Party President Becky Gerritson announced her candidacy Thursday. Gerritson told supporters that Roby has aligned herself with the Washington establishment and "failed politicians" since joining Congress. Roby is serving her third two-year term in Congress. She's up for re-election next year.