Investigators believe five poultry companies violated immigration law
Federal immigration officials say they have probable cause that all five companies operating poultry plants raided by authorities in Mississippi last week violated immigration law by knowingly hiring undocumented immigrants, according to search warrant affidavits that cite videotaped statements of managers. There were clear signs that the companies were hiring people who could not legally work in the country, the search warrants allege. – Washington Post
Briggs & Stratton stock hits 40-year low
Shares of Briggs & Stratton were rocked Thursday to levels last seen in the 1970s, after the maker of gasoline engines and outdoor power equipment reported a surprise fiscal fourth-quarter loss, lowered its full-year outlook and slashed its quarterly dividend. The company, which has an Alabama factory, also said it will close its facility in Murray, Ky., which employs about 630 people, by the fall of 2020, as it consolidates production of its walk-behind lawn mower engines into its Poplar Bluff, Mo. facility. – MarketWatch
Pondering the global appeal of a beaver-inspired gas station
When Olivia Jones asked her daughter where she wanted to celebrate her sixth birthday, she chose a convenience store in another state. That’s so Buc-ee’s. Its fans say few things are more Texas than the chain of massive convenience stores with the disposition of an amusement park. Among its 38 stores, customers can find a whole wall dedicated to Icees. Seasoned nuts are roasted on site, and there’s a homemade fudge bar and a massive beef jerky display. – Washington Post
Alabama psychologist admits $1.5 million Medicaid fraud
A Birmingham psychologist has admitted to trying to defraud Medicaid by billing for counseling services that were never provided, state and federal prosecutors announced Thursday. Sharon Waltz has agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy to defraud Medicaid of at least $1.5 million, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall and U.S. Attorney Jay E. Town announced. Waltz also agreed to pay restitution to Medicaid in the amount of $1.5 million, they said. – AP
New data on underwear habits may fuel hostile workplace environment
Nearly half of Americans have worn the same pair of underwear for two or more days, according to a survey by apparel maker Tommy John. Out of 1,000 people responding to an informal poll conducted by the underwear maker, 45% admitted they had worn the same pair of undies for two or more days, with 13% saying they had worn the same pair for a week or more, Tommy John said. – NY Daily News
