SUMMARY: After two months, a Christian bookstore in Athens has reopened following significant tornado damage. The C I Bookstore, which has served the community since 1955, suffered extensive losses, with around $500,000 in damages, including inventory and electronic systems. Owner Lance Taylor, alerted by neighbors to the disaster, notes the rebuilding process has been a chance for a fresh start, now located just around the corner from its original site. The community’s support during this challenging time has been invaluable, with many grateful to see the store return as a local resource for faith-based literature.

Nearly three months after a tornado swept through the downtown Athens square and ripped apart the CEI Bookstore, the community staple is back in business. 

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SUMMARY: Marquette has filed a response to the civil lawsuit from Stephen Perkins’ family, asserting that his shooting death by a Decatur police officer was justified. The former officer claims that Perkins posed an imminent threat during a botched repossession in September 2023, asserting his right to self-defense and qualified immunity under Alabama’s Stand Your Ground laws. He denies violating Perkins’ constitutional rights and argues that he is protected from prosecution. This response is part of the legal proceedings leading to a March 25 hearing where a judge will decide if the case will proceed, as Perkins’ family seeks accountability.

There is a new development in the civil lawsuit filed by the family of Stephen Perkins, the man shot and killed by a Decatur police officer in 2023

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Postpartum depression education bill passes Alabama House

by Anna Barrett, Alabama Reflector
March 18, 2025

A bill that would require education and screening for postpartum depression for mothers with Medicaid coverage passed the Alabama House of Representatives unanimously on Tuesday.

HB 322, sponsored by Rep. Frances Holk-Jones, R-Foley, requires the Alabama Department of Public Health to educate its employees on the depression that affects 12-16% of women after giving birth.

“It further requires doctors and other health care professionals to assess, have a conversation, regarding postpartum depression,” Holk-Jones said.

The legislation passed with a committee substitute that removed a requirement that the Alabama Medicaid Agency to cover postpartum depression screening and treatment. Holk-Jones said the agency was taken out of because the agency independently decides what medical services it will cover.

“Medicaid made those changes without the legislation,” she said.

Medicaid expanded its postpartum coverage from 60 days to a year in 2023, which includes mental health coverage. 

The bill now goes to the Senate.

Alabama Reflector is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Alabama Reflector maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Brian Lyman for questions: info@alabamareflector.com.

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