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New worker's comp policy raises concern in MCSO

Curtis McCloud — Thu, 23 May 2013 07:15:00 EDT

This letter released to Muscogee County Sheriff's office employees today raised concern to many in that department, in particular pregnant woman. The document signed by Sheriff John Darr says that "all

1 killed in London terror attack, 2 suspects hospitalized

RNN Staff — Wed, 22 May 2013 18:21:00 EDT

One man is dead after two men attacked him in broad daylight with knives and meat cleavers.

GM recalling Cadillac SUVs, wheels may fall off

Thu, 23 May 2013 10:27:00 EDT

General Motors is recalling more than 27,000 Cadillac SUVs worldwide because the wheels could fall off.

Vote on gay Scouts comes at emotional moment

Thu, 23 May 2013 10:11:00 EDT

The Boy Scouts of America's national leadership will vote Thursday on whether to allow openly gay Scouts in its ranks, a critical and emotionally charged moment for one of the nation's oldest youth organizations.

Obama to address drones, Gitmo in security speech

Thu, 23 May 2013 09:40:00 EDT

President Barack Obama is set to at least partially lift the veil of secrecy surrounding U.S.-directed drone strikes around the world, a key component of counterterrorism strategy, as he outlines the contours of the...

How to help the Oklahoma storm victims

Thu, 23 May 2013 09:30:00 EDT

As millions of Americans focus their attention on the devastation in Oklahoma, many will feel compelled to reach out and help.

But sometimes, in massive recovery efforts, people's good intentions can turn into a burden for workers in the trenches.

SPECIAL REPORT: Key to Danger

Chandi Lowry — Thu, 23 May 2013 09:25:00 EDT

Most people don't consider that the key to your home could be the key to danger. When you buy a mass produced lock there are very good chances that someone else has the key to your home!

Talking to your kids about severe weather damages

Thu, 23 May 2013 07:49:00 EDT

The devastation you see on the television following severe weather, like the tornado that ripped through Oklahoma, may leave some children worried or confused about the images they are seeing.

10 Things to Know for Today

Thu, 23 May 2013 06:37:00 EDT

By The Associated Press Your daily look at late-breaking news, upcoming events and the stories that will be talked about today:

Stricken Japan nuke plant struggles to keep staff

Thu, 23 May 2013 05:57:00 EDT

Keeping the meltdown-stricken Fukushima nuclear plant in northeastern Japan in stable condition requires a cast of thousands. Increasingly the plant's operator is struggling to find enough workers, a trend that many...

American Cancer Society turns 100

Thu, 23 May 2013 05:51:00 EDT

The American Cancer Society celebrates its 100 birthday on Wednesday May 22! The organization proudly says they have been leading the way to transform cancer from deadly to treatable for a century. On

Valley Rescue Mission in need of fans

Thu, 23 May 2013 05:33:00 EDT

The Valley Rescue Mission is in need of fans to distribute during the hot summer months -- and the requests are already pouring in.

Nearly all US states see hefty drop in teen births

Thu, 23 May 2013 03:11:00 EDT

The nation's record-low teen birth rate stems from robust declines in nearly every state, but most dramatically in several Mountain States and among Hispanics, according to a new government report.

Urban renewal? Big US cities showing strong growth

Thu, 23 May 2013 01:55:00 EDT

Urban renewal? New census estimates show that most of the nation's largest cities further enhanced their allure last year, posting strong population growth for a second straight year.

Americus police searching for convenience store robbers

Thu, 23 May 2013 01:35:00 EDT

Police in Americus are searching for two men who robbed a convenience store.

They say two masked men rushed into the Sojo on Martin Luther King Boulevard Monday night around 10.

Scott's Ride for Miracles to return Friday, accompanying riders welcome

Christina Kleehammer — Thu, 23 May 2013 00:59:00 EDT

Scott Ressmeyer and the 11 other Miracle Riders have been on a 21-day cross-country trek to raise money and awareness for Children's Miracle Network at the Medical Center.

Japanese climber, 80, becomes oldest atop Everest

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:57:00 EDT

An 80-year-old Japanese mountaineer on Thursday became the oldest person to reach the top of Mount Everest - although his record may last only a few days. An 81-year-old Nepalese man, who held the previous record, plans his...

Columbus Red Cross hosts blood drive to benefit disaster victims

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:50:00 EDT

The Columbus chapter of the American Red Cross hosted a blood drive Tuesday to help victims in Boston and west Texas...and now that help extends to victims of the Oklahoma tornado.

Sign up now for News and Weather alerts

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:06:00 EDT

The devastating effects of the tornado in Oklahoma yesterday serve as a somber reminder that disaster can strike anywhere, anytime.

That's why it's crucial to stay up-to-date on the latest breaking news and weather alerts.

Local university prepares for dangerous storms, builds shelters

Brittany Dionne — Wed, 22 May 2013 23:28:00 EDT

As rescue workers continue to sift through debris searching for survivors all over Oklahoma, News Leader 9 spoke with local officials in the Valley who say they are taking measures to try to prevent the same thing from happening here.

AZ lawmaker opens session with atheist 'prayer'

Ray Downs — Wed, 22 May 2013 23:21:00 EDT

It's not abnormal for lawmakers to begin a political meeting with a prayer. But in Arizona, an atheist state representative began the daily session with a quote from a well-known atheist.

Changes coming to Alabama gun laws

Annie Hubbell — Wed, 22 May 2013 23:21:00 EDT

After months of negotiations between several Alabama state entities, State Bill 286 is heading to the desk of Governor Robert Bentley after passing the House in a 73-28 vote Monday.

St. Francis unveils new Heart Hospital

Wed, 22 May 2013 23:08:00 EDT

Tuesday, St. Francis Hospital hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony and a tour of their facility after completing construction to the building, which began in 2010.

What's next for Marshall and Edgewood?

Curtis McCloud — Wed, 22 May 2013 23:00:00 EDT

After much debate and a unanimous vote from the board, Edgewood Elementary and Marshall Middle schools will close their doors for the final time next Friday. But what happens after next week?

Columbus baby born weighing 11 lbs. celebrates 1st birthday

Brittany Dionne — Wed, 22 May 2013 22:44:00 EDT

It's not every day a baby is born weighing more than a sack of potatoes, or even your average sized watermelon. But for one Columbus family it's been a year since their little – or shall we say big – bundle of joy arrived.

Owner of famous dog is alive and reunited with 'Susie'

Tom Ensey — Wed, 22 May 2013 21:38:00 EDT

There's a happy ending to the story of the little dog who was found standing guard over a body after the EF-5 tornado that decimated her neighborhood in Moore, OK. Her owner is alive, and they have been reunited thanks to the viral photo.

Man shot during FBI interview says he, Tsarnaev killed in 2011

Matt Quillen — Wed, 22 May 2013 21:32:00 EDT

A man killed Wednesday during questioning by the FBI said he and Boston bombing suspect Tamerlan Tsarnaev were accomplices in a 2011 slaying.

Boy Scout leaders to vote on lifting gay ban

Wed, 22 May 2013 21:27:00 EDT

As protesters made one last stand, the Boy Scouts of America's leadership began a conference Wednesday that was expected to culminate in a long-anticipated vote on whether to allow openly gay Scouts - a decision that,...

Family living in fear after being threatened with shotgun

Roslyn Giles — Wed, 22 May 2013 21:24:00 EDT

A Cusseta family told News Leader 9 they are living in fear after a man walked inside their vacant rental property, held them at gunpoint, and threatened to kill them.

Rangers honored at Ft. Benning ceremony

Wed, 22 May 2013 21:16:00 EDT

Ft. Benning handed out honors Tuesday to Army Rangers from the 3rd Battalion Unit.

The men were recognized for their combat actions while deployed in Afghanistan over the last year.

Last of missing from Oklahoma tornado accounted for

Cecelia Hanley — Wed, 22 May 2013 19:56:00 EDT

The last of the missing from Monday's massive tornado that tore through the town of Moore, OK, have been accounted for.

Pets, photos are precious finds in tornado recovery

Tanita Gaither — Wed, 22 May 2013 18:56:00 EDT

As the survivors of the tornadoes in Moore, OK, begin their recovery efforts, many will be trying to locate pets and photos.

Columbus man shot at Ticknor Drive and Torch Hill Road

Christina Kleehammer — Wed, 22 May 2013 18:47:00 EDT

Michael Powell, 29, is recovering after being shot early this morning.

New Stewart County superintendent fires back against criticism

Dante Renzulli — Wed, 22 May 2013 18:38:00 EDT

Beginning in July, Stewart County will have a new superintendent of schools. Dianne Watkins was voted in by the school board to replace Floyd Fort, who is moving to Pelham City. There's been mixed

Your week in music: New Beyonce baby, maybe? New Beyonce music, definitely

Jennifer Bowen — Wed, 22 May 2013 17:58:00 EDT

Is she or isn't she? Who knows? But new Beyonce music is here.

4 Americans killed since 2009 in US drone strikes

Wed, 22 May 2013 17:26:00 EDT

The Obama administration acknowledged for the first time Wednesday that four American citizens have been killed in drone strikes since 2009 in Pakistan and Yemen. The disclosure to Congress comes on the eve of a major...

Soldier charged with videotaping women

Wed, 22 May 2013 17:06:00 EDT

An Army sergeant has been charged with secretly photographing and videotaping at least a dozen women at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, including in a bathroom.

9 Summer Events for Kids

Wed, 22 May 2013 03:26:00 EDT

Before you know it, school will be out and parents will be looking for things for their kids to do. We compiled a list of nine things to do in Columbus this summer for kids.

AT&T assists victims of Oklahoma tornado

Wed, 22 May 2013 03:01:00 EDT

AT&T is taking several steps to assist those in need in Moore and the Oklahoma City area after the community was struck by a tornado Monday.

Happy homecoming for Valley military heroes

Annie Hubbell — Wed, 22 May 2013 01:14:00 EDT

National Guard Specialist Harrison Barninger held his daughter Lexi Marie for the very first time on Monday. Our team first brought the Barninger's story to you last October, when Harrison was able to witness his daughter's birth via Skype over 7,000 miles away in Afghanistan.

Final whitewater rafting preps underway on the Hooch

Roslyn Giles — Wed, 22 May 2013 00:56:00 EDT

If the thought of flipping out of a raft into the Chattahoochee River is what's keeping you from experiencing Columbus' whitewater rafting course...just ask raft guide trainee Hunter Price.

Local $1M Powerball lotto prize unclaimed

Tue, 21 May 2013 23:35:00 EDT

Only one person may have won the Powerball Jackpot Saturday, but there are several million dollar winners scattered across the country, including a lucky winner in Columbus.

Board votes to close 2 area schools

Curtis McCloud — Tue, 21 May 2013 21:26:00 EDT

It was a packed school board meeting Monday night as many parents were hoping for a better outcome. Instead what they got was a vote that closed two schools in Muscogee County forever. "They keep saying

Pets of the Day: May 21

Tue, 21 May 2013 21:25:00 EDT

We're thrilled to report that six of the eight animals we showcased last week have been adopted or placed in rescue groups. A cat and a dog are still available for adoption. Here is a look at today's pets that are in desperate need of a forever home.

Pastor, church member biking across Africa to benefit children’s organization

Mon, 20 May 2013 22:27:00 EDT

A Columbus-area pastor is trying a huge physical challenge to help raise money for a mission in Africa. Pastor Jay Bailey, from Solid Rock Church in Midland, and church member Bud Allen have joined four other people on a 750 mile bike ride across Africa.

Woman claims she was sexually assaulted at her south Columbus apt.

Roslyn Giles — Mon, 20 May 2013 21:00:00 EDT

A Columbus woman reported to police on Sunday that she'd been sexually assaulted inside her apartment.

Animal Control over capacity, pets in need of adoption

Brittany Dionne — Fri, 17 May 2013 23:43:00 EDT

It's raining cats and dogs at the Columbus Animal Care & Control Center… and right now that's not a good thing. The center is overwhelmed with pets and need your help to find them forever homes. News

U.S. teen birth rate plummets

Thu, 23 May 2013 10:08:00 EDT

Teen birth rates in the United States are dropping sharply, especially among Hispanic teens, according to a new government report.

Gwyneth Paltrow says modeling is the 'perfect job' for moms

Thu, 23 May 2013 09:35:00 EDT

Working moms with young children may be always strapped for time, energy and money. But Gwyneth Paltrow has a solution that worked for her — and might work for you: modeling.

Brad Pitt on Jennifer Aniston marriage: I was wasting opportunity

Thu, 23 May 2013 09:30:00 EDT

Brad Pitt says he was burnt out from drug use during his marriage to Jennifer Aniston.

Teen calls explosion, experiment 'bad timing'

Wed, 22 May 2013 21:36:00 EDT

A Florida high school student accused of setting off an explosion at school made her first public statement Wednesday.

Pizza on Mars: NASA funds development of 3D printer that can knock out pizza

Wed, 22 May 2013 17:10:00 EDT

NASA has awarded a mechanical engineer a grant worth $125,000 to help him create a 3D printer for food.

Americans still making unhealthy choices

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:42:00 EDT

The overall health of Americans isn't improving much, with about six in 10 people either overweight or obese and large numbers engaging in unhealthy behaviors like smoking, heavy drinking or not exercising.

Student suicide may spur similar thoughts in teens

Wed, 22 May 2013 10:29:00 EDT

When a classmate commits suicide, teens are more likely to consider or attempt suicide themselves, according to a new study.

To combat drunk driving, NTSB wants tougher blood-alcohol limits

Tue, 21 May 2013 17:09:00 EDT

Seeking to toughen the allowable alcohol limit for drivers, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is calling on states to lower the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) to 0.05 or lower from the current 0.08.

Genes may boost woman's risk of postpartum depression

Tue, 21 May 2013 15:01:00 EDT

Pregnant women with specific alterations in two genes may be at increased risk of suffering depression after giving birth, a small new study suggests.

Justin Bieber booed at Billboard Music Awards

Tue, 21 May 2013 10:28:00 EDT

Justin Bieber took home two trophies at the Billboard Music Awards Sunday night, but he certainly wasn't a winner when it came to the audience vote.

What is Be There?

Mon, 24 Dec 2012 12:24:00 EST

Be There is a multi-media national parent involvement campaign that is sweeping the country. It is not a program or curriculum.

Thunderstorms slow Oklahoma tornado cleanup

Thu, 23 May 2013 10:27:00 EDT

A band of thunderstorms battered the Oklahoma City area Thursday, slowing cleanup operations in the suburb where a tornado killed 24 people and destroyed thousands of homes this week.

Report: Nation's kids need to get more physical

Thu, 23 May 2013 10:27:00 EDT

Reading, writing, 'rithmetic - and PE?

Man shot by FBI had ties to Boston bombing suspect

Thu, 23 May 2013 10:07:00 EDT

A Chechen immigrant shot to death in Florida after an altercation with an FBI agent implicated himself in a triple slaying that officials believe may have been connected to Boston Marathon bombing suspect Tamerlan Tsarnaev,...

Obama to address drones, Gitmo in security speech

Thu, 23 May 2013 09:37:00 EDT

Bronx 'ghetto' tours stop amid residents' outrage

Thu, 23 May 2013 09:27:00 EDT

A company that promised sightseer tours to the Bronx that included a New York City "ghetto" has stopped the bus rides under protest from an outraged neighborhood.

Vote on gay Scouts comes at emotional moment

Thu, 23 May 2013 08:37:00 EDT

For Philadelphia bicyclist, a cat is his co-pilot

Thu, 23 May 2013 08:07:00 EDT

For bicyclist Rudi Saldia, you could say a cat is his co-pilot.

Senator: Assaults let military culture continue

Thu, 23 May 2013 07:47:00 EDT

A senator says repeated sexual assaults in the military allow a culture to continue.

FBI arrests suspect in Wash. state ricin case

Thu, 23 May 2013 04:17:00 EDT

The FBI has arrested a suspect in a case involving the discovery of a pair of letters containing the deadly poison ricin and says investigators are working "around the clock" to address any remaining risks.

Colorado killer's reprieve sharply criticized

Thu, 23 May 2013 04:09:00 EDT

Democratic Gov. John Hickenlooper's decision to block the execution of convicted killer Nathan Dunlap for as long as he is governor infuriated victims' relatives and drew quick criticism from Republicans ahead of the...