Montgomery

Governor signs general fund budget into law

Gov. Bob Riley signed the General Fund budget into law, but he was forced to use the line item veto on a section of the General Fund budget because that section, while well intentioned, violates the Alabama Constitution and state law.

Both the Alabama Constitution and state law require that, in the unfortunate event proration becomes necessary, it must be spread proportionately among all agencies of state government.

Section four of the General Fund budget passed by the Legislature contains a provision that would exempt some agencies from cuts, resulting in an increased burden for the remaining agencies.



Tannehill

Rocks to show at Tannehill State Park

The Alabama Mineral and Lapidary Society is hosting its 35th annual Gem, Mineral and Jewelry Show on June 7-8 at the Tannehill State Historical Park. More than 40 vendors from all over the country will be present with a wide selection of rocks, minerals, jewelry and lapidary materials and equipment. There will be crystals, arrowheads, spear points, fossils and other artifacts.

The club will have a courtesy tent open with demonstrations by club members, including “cabbing” and faceting demonstrations. There will also be games for children.



Birmingham

Zoo adds African-themed, eco-friendly locomotive

The Birmingham Zoo’s newest addition is an African-themed train deemed the Red Diamond Express. Since 1959, the zoo has given more than two million rides to children and families. The new eco-friendly locomotive boasts an African-theme motif, recycled materials, propane engine, which emits fewer pollutants into the air than gasoline, and updated wheelchair-accessible entry.