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Here is today's summary of economic development news, a free service of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, representing Alabama's private sector investment in economic development. If you enjoy NewsFlash, thank an EDPA Partner.
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Alabama adds jobs in August, helps boost Southeast region Published: Friday, September 28, 2012
By Alex Walsh, The Birmingham News
Alabama's economy added 2,300 jobs in August, contributing to a solid month overall for the labor market in the Southeastern U.S., according to the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta.
The Atlanta Fed tracks monthly hiring in six states -- Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida and Lousiana -- and posts frequent updates on the health of what it refers to as the U.S.' Sixth District. In August, the Sixth District combined to add 25,100 jobs to payrolls, one of the highest monthly totals the region has seen since 2009. Georgia added 3,700 payrolls, the Atlanta Fed says, the only other state to outpace Alabama in August. Louisiana added 2,300, while Mississippi and Tennessee lost 1,800 and 5,100 respectively.
more... [Birmingham News]
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Governor in town today for Topre dedication
September 28, 2012 Staff Reports The Cullman Times Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley will join local officials today in celebrating Topre America's dedication of its newly expanded automotive parts manufacturing facility.
A ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. at the Cullman-based facility.
A Tokyo-based automotive parts manufacturer, Topre America has been working toward a $109 million investment in Cullman, creating 250 new jobs along the way. The new investment is more than half of the company's existing building and equipment investment of $200 million up to this point in Cullman.
The 250 new jobs will bring the plant's total employment to more than 600, and the plant's footprint has grown from 440,000 square feet to 620,000 square feet. Seven new stamping machines (ranging in size from 200-2,500 tons) will be installed, and a new die storage building will be constructed as part of the project.
more... [Cullman Times]
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The trail of success: Data show that Coldwater Bike Trail is economic goldmine for the county
by The Anniston Star Editorial Board
For too long, doubters of Calhoun County's potential have questioned the logic of the county's believers. Those doubters often wonder: Can the county legitimately improve its business climate? Will McClellan reach its potential? Can the county enhance its tourism destinations?
With no reservations, we've believed the Coldwater Bike Trail is a bona-fide can't-miss opportunity. Its location is grand. Its economic potential is immense. Its room for future expansion is touted by cycling experts.
The only thing lacking is completion: more trail miles, more entry points, more parking.
In simple terms, Thursday's release of the trail's economic-impact report by Jacksonville State University and the Calhoun County Community Development Corp. told us what we already expected. The trail's impact on this region can't be undersold.
In specific terms, Thursday's release should quiet those who doubted the premise that mountain-bikers will flock to Coldwater Mountain and pump cash into the coffers of local cities, particularly Anniston and Oxford.
more... [ Anniston Star]
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Economic Development Partnership of Alabama conference to focus on business innovation
Published: Thursday, September 27, 2012 By Martin Swant --- The Birmingham News
BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- Business leaders and government officials will meet in Hoover next week at the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama's annual conference to discuss innovation and business development in the state. Bill Taylor, head of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, is shown visiting Innovation Depot, a business incubator in downtown Birmingham.
The EDPA's second annual Alabama Launchpad Innovation and Entrepreneurship Conference, held on Oct. 2 and 3 at the Wynfrey Hotel in Hoover, is scheduled to include Gov. Robert Bentley, University of Alabama Vice President of Research Joe Benson, and UAB Research Foundation CEO Dave Winwood. "Whether we talk about commercialization of scientific research, technology transfer to support industry competitiveness or entrepreneurship that creates new businesses, innovation is a key component of economic development," EDPA President Bill Taylor said in a prepared statement. "The objective of this conference is to help foster an environment where we support and encourage innovation initiatives that can contribute to our state's economic vitality." more... [ Birmingham News]
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CONFERENCE STARTS TUESDAY! Website: www.innovatealabama.com Place: Wynfrey Hotel, Birmingham, Ala. $250.00 - Full Conference for October 2 & 3: $75.00 - Oct. 2 Dinner Event Only $175.00 - Oct. 3 Full Conference Day Only Click For: Registration Speakers Sponsors |
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Enjoy the day,
Val Walton
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