The $1.1 trillion government funding measure faces its first test in the House. Both conservatives and some Democrats are unhappy, but support from the top leaders in both the House and Senate appears to solidify its passage and prevent a government shutdown.

Alabama Power officials say a rate increase is needed partly because of money spent on environmental upgrades. An informal hearing was held yesterday on next year's 5 percent rate increase.

DCH Regional Medical Center has seen an increase in the number of positive flu tests. In addition, there are other respiratory illnesses going around that are causing people to seek hospital treatment. Some have symptoms that mimick the flu.

Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton spent last night in a Charlotte hospital after suffering fractures to his lower back in a two-car crash near the team's stadium early yesterday morning. It is unclear if he'll be able to pracice this week or play Sunday against the Buccaneers. The injury is similar to what Tony Romo has been playing through.

Sierra Leone's junior doctors are demanding better care for medical workers who catch Ebola by extending their strike to a second day following several deaths.  A study finds the rate of lab-confirmed Ebola infections this year has been 100 times higher in medical workers in Sierra Leone than in other adults.

Education officials have announced that Alabama is receiving $17.5 million in development grants for preschool programs.  This is a share of $226 million awarded nationally to 18 states.

Thursday, December 11, the Tuscaloosa City School System will host a Community Dialogue to discuss the Integrated Facility Analysis Demographic Study. The gathering will take place at the Tuscaloosa Career Technology Academy Event Hall from 9:00am to 11:00am and again from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. After a presentation, individual questions will be answered.

20-year-old Stephanie Coats has been identified of the mother whose baby was found in a trash can in Perry County.  The newborn is hospitalized at Children's of Alabama in Birmingham, and Coats has been charged with attempted murder, which will changed to capital murder of the baby does not survive.

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