🌱 Thirsty Turtle Closes + Limestone Correctional Facility Crisis

Happy Friday, Rocket City! I'm back to give you the latest update for what's going on today in the city and beyond. This Daily takes a look at:

• Limestone Correctional Facility is experiencing a staffing crisis
• Retired city employees will receive a one-time bonus
• The Thirsty Turtle has closed

First, today's weather:

Partly sunny and beautiful. High: 89 Low: 63.

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Here are the top stories in Huntsville today:

1. According to unnamed staff at the Limestone Correctional Facility, they are having a staffing crisis that could lead to security officers and even injured officers or workers. The staff members have said they’re running at as few as half of the required staff members on some shifts for the 2,300 inmates. (WAAY)
2. The Huntsville city council has approved (4-1) a bonus for retired city employees. The bonus will be given in a lump sum and will cost the city around $1 million total. (WAAY)
3. Some Madison County residents are unable to receive Emergency Rental Assistance. One resident in need reached out for help, but if you aren’t in Huntsville city limits, the program no longer serves you. Madison County disbursed their last funds in November, and the state will not provide rental assistance in the area because the Madison County program offered assistance at one time. (WHNT News 19)
4. The Thirsty Turtle in Huntsville has closed. According to the owner, Deanna Wolf, it is only temporary. Her mother and the longtime owner, Marilyn VerMeer, passed away recently, which caused issues with the liquor license. When that is figured out, the bar will be able to reopen. (AL.com)
5. A new court date has been set for LaJeromeny Brown, the man accused of killing Huntsville Police Department officer Billy Clardy III. The court date will be October 16, 2023, and state prosecutors are going after the death penalty. (WAFF)

Today in Huntsville:

• Huntsville Restaurant Week 2022 (All Day)
• Friday Night Art Walk - Downtown Huntsville, Inc. (5:00 PM)
• Jamboree Game at Ardmore - Jemison High School (7:00 PM)
• Burritt on the Mountain’s City Lights and Stars Concert Series (7:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• The Huntsville Parks & Recreation Department has released their Fall Guide to show you what the Rocket City has to offer for the upcoming season. You can check it out here.
• The 5th Annual End Addiction Walk HSV is tomorrow at 9 a.m. at Big Spring Park! (Details)
• The Community Fun & Wellness Festival is back tomorrow at the Richard Showers Recreation Center from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. (WAFF)
• The Monte Sano Arts Festival is back September 10-11! (Details)

More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Events:

• Breast Ultrasound Screening Coming Direct to You! (August 19)
• Add your event

Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Friday. I'll see you around!

— Amy Young

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Huntsville Daily? Contact me at huntsville@patch.com