SET Enterprises held a grand opening ceremony on Friday, March 30th in Jackson, AL. Read more in our

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Choctaw General Hospital ribbon cutting ceremony. Photo courtesy of Rush Health Systems.

Choctaw General Hospital in Butler, AL held an open house and ribbon cutting ceremony on Sunday, April 29th at 2:00 pm.

Representatives from Rush Health Systems, Choctaw General Hospital, Choctaw County and The City of Butler were on hand including: Donnie Smith, Vice President of Human Resources & Public Relations of Rush Health Systems; Reverend Joe McKinney, Pastor of First Methodist Church in Butler; Wallace Strickland, President/ CEO of Rush Health Systems; Chuck Reece, Executive VP/ COO of Rush Health Systems; J.W. Cowan, Administrator of Choctaw General Hospital; Jerry Cotton, Administrator of the Original Choctaw General Hospital; and Fred Rogers, Chief Resource Officer of Rush Health Systems.

The Honorable Jeff Sessions, United States Senator from Alabama delivered the keynote address.

Senator Jeff Sessions delivers the keynote address. Photo courtesy of Rush Health Systems. 

Closing remarks and the ribbon cutting ceremony were delivered by The Honorable Elaine Beech, Alabama House of Representatives; The Honorable Marc Keahey, Alabama State Senate; The Honorable Ben Smith, Mayor of Butler; The Honorable Dwayne May, Probate Judge and Chairman of the Choctaw County Alabama Commission.

About Choctaw General Hospital

Owned and operated by the Meridian, Miss. based Rush Health Systems, the state-of-the-art, 25-bed "critical access" facility is located on Vanity Fair Drive in Butler, AL.

Choctaw General boasts inpatient and outpatient care, a 24-hour physician-staffed emergency department, fully-equipped laboratory, and imaging department that includes x-ray, MRI, and CT capabilities, a surgical procedures suite, rehab, an intensive outpatient program, and a swing-bed program. The facility will also be equipped with a helipad for air ambulance transport. The dining room will be open to serve the public with three meals a day, five days a week plus lunch on Sundays.

For more information about the Hospital, please click here.

From left, Mayor Long, Lt. Gov. Ivey, SET CEO Sid E. Taylor and U.S. Congressman Jo Bonner. Photo courtesy of Evan Carden.

"SET Alabama is open for business," said SET Enterprises CEO Sid E. Taylor, during his comments at the grand opening ceremony for the company's newly completed steel sheeting plant, Friday, March 30, in Jackson.

Taylor recognized his company's customer partnerships, which include Ford and Chrysler, as well as Jackson Mayor Richard Long and developer Tom Bolton who he said were both instrumental in making the facility become a reality. The plant is the company's first in the Southeastern United States.

"I am proud to call both of these men friends," said Taylor. "This journey started with the groundbreaking in June of 2011."

Many of the same faces seen at that ceremony, 10 months ago, attended Friday's event. Taylor told those in attendance plans are already being considered for phase II of SET Alabama, which would add a stamping operation and double the size of the 72,000 square ft. facility, as well as the number of employees. The Jackson plant currently employs about 40 people.

Taylor said SET Enterprises is considered "best in class," among companies of its size. "We have and maintain the most prolific talent," he added. "In issuing a call to all prospective customers we should use the slogan: 'Phase II is waiting for you.' This is a great day for SET Enterprises, its employees, Mayor Long and the City of Jackson."

According to Taylor, thanks to Ford Motor Company, SET's first and largest customer, his company is expected to exceed $400 million in sales this year. Ford Motor Company Sales Manager Ed Rotch told the crowd that Ford looks to build long working relationships with suppliers and explained the country's leading automobile manufacturer and SET have a long-term relationship.

"The great comeback story of manufacturing in the United States is well under way," said Rotch. "We expect part of that to be here in Jackson, Alabama."

Kevin Bell, senior manager of diversity supplier management for Chrysler Group, LLC, began by paying tribute to both Long and Taylor who are military veterans. Long served in the U.S. Navy and was involved in the Cuban Missile Crisis, while Taylor saw combat during a tour in Vietnam. He also mentioned the recent merger of the Jackson and Salitpa water systems, which he discovered by reading the local newspaper.

Bell said Chrysler had survived the recession thanks in large part to the generosity of the American people. He said the company was working to re-energize its diverse supplier chain and that SET had been one of its partners for nearly two decades.

Taylor serves on the company's advisory council "Our partnership with SET Enterprises will remain strong and continue to grow," he concluded.

ThyssenKrupp Steel USA Director of Supply Chain Management Andreas Ebensperger thanked Alabama and Jackson for bringing another world-class company to Alabama.

"Alabama is probably the most friendly manufacturing and business state in the country," he said. "They have a tremendous workforce made up of people who are dedicated to doing a good job."

Ebensperger said Alabama has numerous logistical advantages, especially in the southern part of the state, including the Tombigbee River and the Port of Mobile. He explained that ThyssenKrupp looks to go into the high-end markets for steel. "In order to do that we need partners," he said. "SET Enterprises is well-known for quality and service. It is a world class company and we are certainly excited about them being here."

"Business leaders like you are the lifeblood of this state's economy," Lt. Gov. Kay Ivey told Taylor during her comments. "Individual entrepreneurship matters. We must support businesses like SET Enterprises."

Inside the new sheeter plant in Jackson. Photo courtesy of Evan Carden.

Ivey went on to point out that the state's economy is looking up with the unemployment rate dropping to 7.6 percent. "We are grateful Alabama has good workers. Success breeds success. Without success we don't get to hire anybody. To be successful we must be engaged in the process of government. The most successful public official on any level is the one that listens to his or her constituents back home."

Ivey presented Taylor with a certificate naming him an "honorary lieutenant governor."

U.S. Congressman Jo Bonner said Taylor was a true example of what America is all about. "You have set an example for others to follow," he said.

Mayor Long spoke about first meeting Taylor in October of 2010 thanks to former Washington County Economic Developer Jesse Quillen, who suggested they meet after the company could not find a site in Washington County that was suitable for its needs. "We met at a fish fry and by that night I knew we would get SET Enterprises," he said.

Long went on to recognize the Jackson City Council, Industrial Development Board, city staff and employees for their work in making the deal a success. He thanked Representatives Bonner and Terri Sewell and U.S. Senators Richard Shelby and Jeff Sessions for their assistance in bringing SET to Jackson. He also recognized Gov. Robert Bentley and the other state agencies involved in the effort. "I would also like to thank the Clarke County Commission and the citizens of Jackson who spend money here," he added. "We are continuing the efforts began by Mayors Norma Beard and James Arrington and will continue growing Jackson, Alabama. Thanks to Tom Bolton for his leadership on this project."

Taylor was presented with a token of appreciation by Jim Barrett of the Alabama Department of Economic Development. Clarke County Commissioners Patricia DuBose and Tyrone Moye presented him with a county seal. He also received a gift from Gov. Bentley welcoming him to Alabama.

Also speaking was Chuck Sudwischer, SET's Jackson plant manager, who recognized First United Security Bank's Thomasville office for their assistance in financing the project.

In addition to the Jackson facility, SET Enterprises operates plants in Warren Mich., Detroit, Mich., New Boston, Mich., North Vernon, Ind. and Chicago, Ill.

Carden, Evan. "SET Enterprises open for business". The South Alabamian (Jackson) 6 April 2012, Page 1A & 5A.

United Bank welcomes HERO Organization and Women's Business Center. Photo courtesy of United Bank.

United Bank is celebrating the beginning of two new economic development partnerships designed to assist the needs of consumers and business owners in the Escambia and Monroe areas. The public attended a reception Thursday, May 3, at 1:30 p.m. at the bank's main branch in Atmore where United welcomed representatives from the Hale Empowerment & Revitalization Organization (HERO) and from the Women's Business Center.

"Through innovation and through unique partnerships, we are finding new ways for our community bank to reach an underserved region," said Bob Jones, President and CEO of United Bank. "The staff at HERO are experts when it comes to helping people better their social and economic situations, and the Women's Business Center has a track record of working with business owners to make ideas reality."

As part of its new partnership, United Bank is providing office space, phone and technology support for both organizations at its offices in Atmore. Initially HERO staffers will be available to discuss home renovation and rehabilitation and to assist with processing FEMA disaster claims. Representatives from the Women's Business Center will assist owners and potential owners with business planning, management and getting the most from operating their small business.

"These are the first of what I believe will become an alliance of non-profits and organizations willing to extend beyond their traditional footprint to bring services to our northernmost market areas," Jones said.

United Bank began working with representatives from HERO in 2011 when it partnered to facilitate funding through the Federal Home Loan Bank for home rehabilitation loans for HERO clients in Greensboro, Ala. Founded in 1994, HERO works to provide resources for small business incubation, affordable housing and financial literacy. Southern Living and The New York Times have each featured stories on HERO and the self-sustaining businesses it helped create in Greensboro - Pie Lab and Alabama Bamboo Bikes.

"I recognized early on in our meetings the passion, energy and concern shared by HERO for the people they serve. It reminded me of United Bank and how we strive to improve the lives of our clients," Jones said. "I knew if we could help fill gaps in the services it offered its clients there, HERO would be an economic development resource to help us turn conversations into actions here at home."

In April 2012, United began offering prepaid debit cards to HERO clients. Combined with a secured credit card to be offered in the future, these products are designed to assist in improving a customer's financial success through better money and credit management.

Founded in 1993, the Women's Business Center assists women in starting and growing their business. Its founding made Alabama one of the first states to have such an organization. Until now, representatives from the Women's Business Center would meet on a case-by-case basis with clients and occasionally attend lunch-and-learn sessions in the area. Through its partnership with United Bank, the Center can begin building a stronger presence as it serves a broader community.

"While we're not reinventing the wheel, what we are doing is redeploying products and reaching out in order to give communities greater access to services to help them be more successful," Jones said. "We have the space, we have the tools. For us it's about creating opportunities and providing ready access to a number of organizations with services that to this point have been unavailable in rural markets."

About United Bank: United Bank is a $450,000,000 financial institution that has enjoyed 108 years of service. United Bank has offices in Atmore, Flomaton, Monroeville, Frisco City, Bay Minette, Foley, Lillian, Loxley, Magnolia Springs, Silverhill, Spanish Fort and Summerdale in Alabama. United Bank serves Santa Rosa County, Florida in Jay, Milton and Pace. For more information about United Bank please visit our website at www.unitedbank.com.  

For more information on Hale Empowerment & Revitalization Organization, visit www.herohousing.org or call 334-624-0842.

For more on the Women's Business Center visit www.womenbiz.biz or call 251-660-2725.

Otha Lee Biggs at the dedication ceremony with his family. Photo courtesy of Mike Qualls.

A dedication ceremony was held on Thursday, April 19th for the Monroe County Heritage Museum's new outdoor amphitheater.

Georgia-Pacific donated $175,000 to the Museum and will make additional investments in the future. The Museum sponsors the play "To Kill a Mockingbird" which began its annual production Thursday, April 19th.  

The amphitheater was dedicated and named in honor of Otha Lee Biggs, who retired in 2007 after serving 36 years as Monroe County probate judge and county commission chairman. Biggs played a large part in establishing the local production of the play around 22 years ago and helped to put together performances in Chicago, Washington D.C., Israel and England.

The amphitheater is located on the west lawn of the historic Old Monroe County Courthouse and Museum, which serves as the permanent location of the play as well as other events going forward.

The Mockingbird Players is an amateur theater group that performs the play from April to May of each year.

Georgia-Pacific's Alabama River Cellulose is the largest manufacturer in Monroe County, employing around 425. GP wanted to make an investment in the community that would be meaningful to all citizens.

One of our goals at the CGEDA is to have everyone in our region know who we are and what we do. That includes knowing our board members. Because our board is constantly growing, we will continue highlighting board members in Gateway News, so that you will know who is representing the region. This month, we would like to introduce Monroeville Mayor Mike Kennedy.

Spotlight on Monroeville Mayor Mike Kennedy

Mayor Mike Kennedy was sworn in as Mayor of Monroeville, his hometown, on November 4^th, 2008. He is serving his first term as Mayor after serving four years as District One Councilman.  He also served on the Finance Committee and as chairman of the Litter Task Force.   During his tenure as councilman he feels that he gained a significant awareness of municipal operations and city government. Mayor Kennedy's interest in public service comes from his "love and appreciation for this community". His family has lived here for generations.

Mayor Kennedy graduated from Monroe Academy in Monroeville, AL. He then obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from Troy State University. He has a background in business and financial management.

Mayor Kennedy is a lifelong resident of Monroeville, Alabama. He was born on October 6^th, 1961. He lives in Monroeville with his wife Cindy Ward Kennedy and they have two sons, Bush Andress Kennedy, 26, and Ward McCorvey Kennedy, 23.  He and his family attend worship service at First United Methodist Church where they are members.

He is a past board member of the Monroeville/Monroe County Area Chamber of Commerce and is a member of the Kiwanis Club of Monroeville. He is a former youth coach and commissioner of Monroeville Little League Baseball, and a supporter of Monroe County United Way.

Spotlight on Monroeville, AL

Monroe County was founded in 1815. Monroeville, once known as Centerville, was renamed for James Monroe and incorporated on April 15, 1899.  However, there is record of the first municipal election being held January 23, 1858 to incorporate the town of Monroeville with a 14 to 0 vote in favor of incorporation.  A crossroads community just outside the plantation region of the Black Belt, the community was largely agricultural.  In the mid-1930's, a Vanity Fair textile mill opened and along with wood products contributed to a dynamic local economy. 

Monroeville is located in southwest Alabama along US Highway 84, the El Camino Corridor, which is historically one of the most important east-west routes - linking Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia. Monroeville is centrally located 90 miles north of Mobile, south of Montgomery, the state's capital, and Pensacola, Florida. Monroeville is located 26 miles west of Interstate 65 and only 10 minutes east of the Alabama River.  In addition to US Highway 84, State Highways 21, 41, and 47 pass through Monroeville. 

Monroeville, with a population of 6,519, remains a regional center and crossroads on the El Camino Corridor. While the textile industry has moved overseas, agriculture remains and timber continues as an important part of the local economy.  The health care industry is now becoming a major contributor to the local economy.

K-12 schools include the Monroe County Public School System, The Monroe Academy and New Life Christian School.

Monroeville is also home to Alabama Southern Community College where the Writer's Symposium is held each year in May. Annual productions of "To Kill A Mockingbird" are held in April and May at the Monroe County Heritage Museum and Courthouse with local citizens performing as cast members. 

Monroeville received the designation of "Literary Capital of Alabama" in 1997 by joint proclamation of both the Alabama House and Senate because of its history to produce many famous writers, such as, Nelle Harper Lee, Truman Capote, Mike Stewart, Cynthia Tucker and Mark Childress (to name a few).

In May 2005, Monroeville received the designation as an "Alabama Community of Excellence" which recognizes the City as one of the top places to live in Alabama. In order to receive this designation, the city was required to meet certain criteria in leadership, planning, economic development and quality of life. 

For a full listing and photos of the current Coastal Gateway Board of Directors, please click here.

Sizemore Creek Beverage Company, established in 2008, has purchased property at Rivercane for a 10,000 square foot bottling facility. The building and equipment for the addition is estimated at $1.5 million. For more information, please click here.

Work begins on Golden Dragon site at the Thomasville West Wilcox Industrial Park

Crews began clearing the land at the Thomasville West Wilcox Industrial Park in Sunny South in late May. Golden Dragon copper tube plant will be located in the park located at County Road 1 and County Road 27. The park will be 280 acres with Golden Dragon encompassing 135 acres. The remainder of the property will be available for other industrial development. Golden Dragon is one of the largest projects in Wilcox county history. A few weeks ago, Brasfield and Gorrie held a pre-bid meeting for sub-contractors with over 200 people in attendance. The plant will employ around 300 people and represents an investment of $100 million.

Economic Development Project Bringing More than 500 New Jobs to Alabama

Walter Energy, Inc., will soon begin development on a new project that will create more than 500 additional jobs in four Alabama counties. The announcement follows the recent approval of incentives that were designed to create new economic opportunities for the people of Alabama.

As part of its Blue Creek Energy Project, Walter Energy, Inc., will develop a new underground metallurgical coal mine in Tuscaloosa County, and a coal terminal will be located at the Port of Mobile. The project will also include a barge load-out facility in Walker County and a rail spur in Fayette County. The Blue Creek Energy Project will require an estimated $1.2 billion capital investment and will create 530 full-time jobs with an average estimated annual payroll of $45 million and an average estimated annual salary of $120,000 (including benefits) per employee.

Walter Energy's decision came after the Legislature passed, and Governor Bentley signed, House Bill 144 - a measure that expanded Alabama's existing statutory incentives to the coal mining industry.

Walter Energy already operates coal mines in Alabama, West Virginia, Canada, and Wales. The company has approximately 4,400 employees with more than 2,100 in Alabama.

The coal terminal at the Port of Mobile will be operational in approximately two years.

Alabama Blueberry Festival to be held June 16th in Brewton

The Alabama Blueberry Festival will be held June 16th from 9 am to 5 pm in downtown Brewton. Events include arts and crafts, an antique car show, a motorcycle show, live entertainment, and blueberries, cookbooks, and t-shirts for sale. There will also be a food court with blueberry desserts.

Reid State to offer free dual enrollment courses to eligible high school students this summer

Dual enrollment courses - Eligible high school students will be able to attend Reid State free this summer. A scholarship will cover tuition, fees & books. Students may attend college for 1 class or as a full-time student. Students must be in 10th or 11th grade & have a 75 GPA. Students must also take an entrance exam and complete an admission application. Dual enrollment programs are available for the following programs: auto body repair, computer information systems, office systems tech, industrial electricity & welding. For admission info contact Dr. Alesia Stuart at: akstuart@rstc.edu.

Sasser named director of public information at ASCC

Christy Sasser has been named director of public information at Alabama Southern Community College. Sasser will manage all public relations, marketing communications and media efforts.

15th Annual Alabama Writers Symposium

The 15th annual Alabama Writers Symposium held on April 26th-28th drew a packed house to Alabama Southern Community College at the Monroeville Community House, and at the Old Courthouse Museum in downtown Monroeville.

Pictured are Fannie Flagg, Nelle Harper Lee, and Dr. William Ulmer. Photo courtesy of Mary B. Tomlinson.

The agenda included discussion sessions, lectures, readings, workshops, receptions, luncheons and other events. Featured writers in attendance included: Fannie Flagg (2012 Harper Lee Award Winner for Alabama's Distinguished Writer), Brad Watson, Allen Tullos, Wayne Flynt, Irene Latham, Trudier Harris, Rachel Hawkins, Kerry Madden, Jeanie Thompson, Abraham Smith and Mary Murphy. Featured scholars were on hand including: Nancy Anderson, Kirk Curnutt, Anita Miller Garner, Peter Huggins, Jim Murphy, Don Noble and Jacqueline Allen Trimble. Also, featured were songwriter Kathryn Scheldt and artist Opal Smith.

Nelle Harper Lee, long- time resident of Monroeville and author of "To Kill a Mockingbird," unexpectedly attended the awards luncheon to see Fannie Flagg receive the Lee Award.

For more information about the writers symposium, please click here.

The Coastal Gateway Regional Economic Development Alliance Facebook Page is another good opportunity to help us keep in touch with you. Here you can view photos, happenings of the Alliance throughout the year and regional events as they relate to economic development.

There are over 100 members on our page so far.  We encourage you to join in and help spread the news about the Facebook Page.  If you would like us to post specific information or include pictures from your region, please contact info@cgeda.net.

To visit or join the page: click here.

CGEDA is also on Twitter! Follow us on Twitter to keep up to date on news in the region! To follow us on Twitter: click here.