Potential jurors asked to be excused

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) - The third day of jury selection in Alabama's gambling corruption retrial began with 12 possible jurors in a pool of 29 asking to be excused from duty.
    
Their excuses range from wanting to be with pregnant wives, job considerations and one juror whose niece was on the first trial. Three possible jurors have already been excused this week.
    
U.S. District Judge Myron Thompson warned jurors not to contact attorneys or parties during breaks to avoid the appearance of unfairness. He said it was the one time in their careers they'd have to suspend Southern hospitality.
    
Attorneys earlier interviewed 55 potential jurors.
    
Attorneys expect to select a jury Thursday or Friday for the trial of casino owner Milton McGregor and five others accused of buying and selling votes for pro-gambling legislation.