Governor Bob Riley has awarded $9.26 million, including $4.86 million in federal stimulus funding, to help Alabama's low-income residents cut their utility bills by making their homes more energy efficient. The Alabama Weatherization Assistance Program gives priority consideration to the elderly, those with disabilities and to low-income residents with children. Houses that qualify are modified to improve both energy efficiency and safety.
"Each month many Alabama families with limited incomes are forced to spend more than they should for utilities because their homes aren't properly sealed and insulated," Governor Riley said. "By making houses more energy efficient, this program saves energy, reduces pollution and leaves residents with more money for other essentials."
To identify the most cost-effective measures for each home, an energy audit is performed. Depending on the results, a home weatherization project may include extra insulation for the attic, walls and floor, sealing leaks in ductwork, repairs and tune-ups for heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems, and replacement of incandescent lights with highly efficient compact fluorescent bulbs.
Families with gross income of 200 percent of the federal poverty level or less are eligible to apply. That means a family of four can have no more than $44,100 a year annually in gross income. The qualifying cap for a family of two is an annual income of no more than $29,140. Alabama's weatherization program is getting a boost this year from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act which is supplementing $4.16 million allocated to the state by the U. S. Department of Energy. The Energy division of the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs administers the state program. The office expects additional stimulus funds to be allocated at a later date.
To carry out the weatherization program, Riley awarded grants to 15 community action or other sponsoring agencies across the state. These agencies administer the program at the local level and receive applications from individuals who wish to be considered for assistance.
Below is a list of grants awarded, the counties served by each recipient agency and contact information for applicants:
"Each month many Alabama families with limited incomes are forced to spend more than they should for utilities because their homes aren't properly sealed and insulated," Governor Riley said. "By making houses more energy efficient, this program saves energy, reduces pollution and leaves residents with more money for other essentials."
To identify the most cost-effective measures for each home, an energy audit is performed. Depending on the results, a home weatherization project may include extra insulation for the attic, walls and floor, sealing leaks in ductwork, repairs and tune-ups for heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems, and replacement of incandescent lights with highly efficient compact fluorescent bulbs.
Families with gross income of 200 percent of the federal poverty level or less are eligible to apply. That means a family of four can have no more than $44,100 a year annually in gross income. The qualifying cap for a family of two is an annual income of no more than $29,140. Alabama's weatherization program is getting a boost this year from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act which is supplementing $4.16 million allocated to the state by the U. S. Department of Energy. The Energy division of the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs administers the state program. The office expects additional stimulus funds to be allocated at a later date.
To carry out the weatherization program, Riley awarded grants to 15 community action or other sponsoring agencies across the state. These agencies administer the program at the local level and receive applications from individuals who wish to be considered for assistance.
Below is a list of grants awarded, the counties served by each recipient agency and contact information for applicants:
- $484,976 to Community Action Agency of Northwest Alabama Inc. (Colbert, Franklin and Lauderdale) 256-766-4330.
- $550,628 to Community Action Partnership of Huntsville, Madison and Limestone Counties (Madison and Limestone) 256-851-9800.
- $637,338 to Community Action Partnership of North Alabama Inc. (Cullman, Lawrence, Marion, Morgan, Walker and Winston) 256-355-7843.
- $556,980 to Community Action Agency of Northeast Alabama Inc. (Blount, Cherokee, DeKalb, Jackson, Marshall and St. Clair) 256-638-4430.
- $291,066 to Etowah County Community Services Program Inc. (Etowah) 256-546-9271.
- $533,864 to Community Action Agency of Talladega, Clay, Randolph, Calhoun and Cleburne Counties. (Calhoun, Clay, Cleburne, Randolph and Talladega) 256-362-8147.
- $1.09 million to Jefferson County Committee for Economic Opportunity (Jefferson) 205- 458-2626.
- $252,606 to Community Action Committee Inc. of Chambers-Tallapoosa-Coosa. (Chambers, Coosa and Tallapoosa) 256-825-4287.
- $692,840 to Community Services Program of West Alabama (Bibb, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Lamar, Pickens, Sumter and Tuscaloosa) 205-752-5429.
- $586,860 to Elmore-Autauga Community Action Committee (Autauga, Chilton, Dallas, Elmore, Perry and Shelby) 334-567-7298.
- $458,988 to Montgomery County Commission (Montgomery) 334-262-4300.
- $532,984 to Central Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission (Lee, Macon and Russell) 334-262-4300.
- $884,478 to Organized Community Action Program Inc. (Barbour, Bullock, Butler, Coffee, Covington, Crenshaw, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston, Lowndes and Pike) 334-566-1712.
- $671,900 to Community Action Agency of Baldwin, Escambia, Clarke, Monroe and Conecuh Counties Inc. (Baldwin, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Marengo, Monroe and Wilcox). 251-626-2649.
- $1.03 million to Mobile Community Action Inc. (Mobile, Choctaw and Washington). 251- 457-5700
The Year of CLG Training continues with another great opportunity in Huntsville on August 27-28! Lisa Deline, the National Register nomination reviewer with the National Park Service will provide a one day workshop on the National Register process and requirements on August 27. This workshop will be useful to consultants, CLG staff and commission members wanting to take a more active role in nominating properties and providing oversight to consultants and other nomination preparers. The August 28 program will provide more general training for historic preservation commission members and staff. Agenda items are in
development but will include:
Thank you,
Mary Shell, Alabama Historical Commission
334-230-2691
development but will include:
- Roles and responsibilities of preservation commissions
- National Register program requirements with a focus on properties eligible for their historic associations
- Protecting historic resources.
Thank you,
Mary Shell, Alabama Historical Commission
334-230-2691
From the Faith-Based and Community Loop:
Individual Assistance Declared for Flooding in the Following Counties
Autauga
Covington
Elmore
Geneva
Houston
Montgomery
This Special Edition Loop is to inform churches and community organizations that individual assistance has been declared through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for victims of the recent flooding. As trusted messengers please let individuals affected by the flooding within your churches and communities know that assistance is available. Contact names and numbers are provided below for each county that individual assistance has been declared. If your church or organization can assist individuals affected by the flooding with their FEMA forms, clean up, rebuilding, or in other ways, please contact the number below for your area.
Please note that individuals affected by the flooding from all declared counties can contact the FEMA assistance team directly at 1-800-621-3362.
Please do not send donated goods or volunteers to assist before coordinating with the local points of contact listed below. Thank you for your kind consideration.
Autauga County
Point of Contact: Dr. Bill Morgan
Phone Number: 334-365-7802
Point of Contact: Gilbert Jennings
Phone Number: 205-419-0580
FEMA Disaster Assistance Field Office: Mobile Unit
1309 Upper Kingston Road
Prattville, AL 36067
Covington County
Point of Contact: Kristi Stamnes
Phone Number: 334-427-4911
Elmore County
Point of Contact: Kim Trost
Phone Number: 334-567-6451
FEMA Disaster Assistance Field Office: Millbrook Civic Center
3168 Park Circle
Millbrook, AL
Geneva County
Point of Contact: Margaret Mixon
Phone Number: 334-684-5677
Houston County
Point of Contact: Clark Matthews
Phone Number: 334-794-9720
Montgomery County
Point of Contact: Jim Barrett
Phone Number: 334-241-2339
FEMA Disaster Assistance Field Office: Capitol Heights Community Center
206 Federal Drive Montgomery, AL
Individual Assistance Declared for Flooding in the Following Counties
Autauga
Covington
Elmore
Geneva
Houston
Montgomery
This Special Edition Loop is to inform churches and community organizations that individual assistance has been declared through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for victims of the recent flooding. As trusted messengers please let individuals affected by the flooding within your churches and communities know that assistance is available. Contact names and numbers are provided below for each county that individual assistance has been declared. If your church or organization can assist individuals affected by the flooding with their FEMA forms, clean up, rebuilding, or in other ways, please contact the number below for your area.
Please note that individuals affected by the flooding from all declared counties can contact the FEMA assistance team directly at 1-800-621-3362.
Please do not send donated goods or volunteers to assist before coordinating with the local points of contact listed below. Thank you for your kind consideration.
Autauga County
Point of Contact: Dr. Bill Morgan
Phone Number: 334-365-7802
Point of Contact: Gilbert Jennings
Phone Number: 205-419-0580
FEMA Disaster Assistance Field Office: Mobile Unit
1309 Upper Kingston Road
Prattville, AL 36067
Covington County
Point of Contact: Kristi Stamnes
Phone Number: 334-427-4911
Elmore County
Point of Contact: Kim Trost
Phone Number: 334-567-6451
FEMA Disaster Assistance Field Office: Millbrook Civic Center
3168 Park Circle
Millbrook, AL
Geneva County
Point of Contact: Margaret Mixon
Phone Number: 334-684-5677
Houston County
Point of Contact: Clark Matthews
Phone Number: 334-794-9720
Montgomery County
Point of Contact: Jim Barrett
Phone Number: 334-241-2339
FEMA Disaster Assistance Field Office: Capitol Heights Community Center
206 Federal Drive Montgomery, AL
Capturing on film the legendary folks in your community is something you'll never regret. They can tell the story of Your Town better than anyone else.
This program provides training and technical assistance to volunteers who provide free tax counseling and assistance to elderly individuals in the preparation of their federal income tax returns. IRS is authorized to enter into agreements with private or non-governmental public non-profit agencies or organizations, exempt under Section 501 of the Internal Revenue Code, that will provide training and technical assistance to volunteers who provide free tax counseling and assistance to elderly individuals in the preparation of their Federal income tax returns. Grant funds are used to reimburse volunteers for out-of-pocket expenses including transportation, meals, and other expenses incurred by them in providing tax counseling assistance at locations convenient to the taxpayers.
Eligible Applicants: Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized) Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education. Deadline: August 3, 2009.
http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=false&oppId=47613
Eligible Applicants: Native American tribal governments (Federally recognized) Nonprofits having a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS, other than institutions of higher education. Deadline: August 3, 2009.
http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=false&oppId=47613
The WellPoint Foundation strives to enhance the health and well-being of individuals and families in the communities that WellPoint serves in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Virginia, and Wisconsin. The Foundation focuses a high percentage of annual giving on its Healthy Generations Signature Program. The remaining percentage of the Foundation's grants fall into the Foundation's secondary Focused Giving areas: access to health care, health care disparities, health education, specific diseases, and non-healthcare-related quality of life. The Foundation also offers health care research and health policy grant opportunities. Applications in all categories are reviewed quarterly; the next deadline is August 19, 2009. To submit an online application, visit the company's website listed below.
http://www.wellpointfoundation.org/
http://www.wellpointfoundation.org/
This funding opportunity is being made available under Section 1110 of the Social
Security Act, and Title VIII of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of
2009, P.L. 111-5
http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=111_cong_billsdocid=f:h1enr.pdf. The Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of Community Services (OCS), announces that applications will be accepted for new cooperative agreements to experienced
organizations to provide nonprofit organizations serving as project partners, with capacity building training, technical assistance, and competitive financial assistance. The focus of this program is to build the capacity of funded projects' nonprofit partners in order to address the broad economic recovery issues present in their communities, including helping low-income individuals secure and retain employment, earn higher wages, obtain better-quality jobs, and gain greater access to state and Federal benefits and tax credits. Lead organizations will assist nonprofit organizations working in distressed communities with capacity building activities that support economic recovery.
Specifically, lead organizations will assist grassroots organizations working in distressed communities with capacity building activities in five critical areas: 1) organizational development, 2) program development, 3) collaboration and community engagement, 4) leadership development, and 5) evaluation of effectiveness. Capacity building activities are designed to increase an organization's sustainability and effectiveness, enhance its ability to provide social services, and create collaborations to better serve those in need. Successful applicants will be subject to reporting requirements consistent with the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009 Standard Terms and Conditions. In addition, successful applicants will use a quarterly performance progress report (SF- PPR) format specific to Strengthening Communities Fund (SCF) awards.
Applications Due: Jul 07, 2009. See link to full announcement for details. IMPORTANT NOTE: Applications submitted electronically via Grants.gov must be submitted no later than 4:30 p.m., eastern time, on the due date referenced above.
Security Act, and Title VIII of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of
2009, P.L. 111-5
http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=111_cong_billsdocid=f:h1enr.pdf. The Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of Community Services (OCS), announces that applications will be accepted for new cooperative agreements to experienced
organizations to provide nonprofit organizations serving as project partners, with capacity building training, technical assistance, and competitive financial assistance. The focus of this program is to build the capacity of funded projects' nonprofit partners in order to address the broad economic recovery issues present in their communities, including helping low-income individuals secure and retain employment, earn higher wages, obtain better-quality jobs, and gain greater access to state and Federal benefits and tax credits. Lead organizations will assist nonprofit organizations working in distressed communities with capacity building activities that support economic recovery.
Specifically, lead organizations will assist grassroots organizations working in distressed communities with capacity building activities in five critical areas: 1) organizational development, 2) program development, 3) collaboration and community engagement, 4) leadership development, and 5) evaluation of effectiveness. Capacity building activities are designed to increase an organization's sustainability and effectiveness, enhance its ability to provide social services, and create collaborations to better serve those in need. Successful applicants will be subject to reporting requirements consistent with the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009 Standard Terms and Conditions. In addition, successful applicants will use a quarterly performance progress report (SF- PPR) format specific to Strengthening Communities Fund (SCF) awards.
Applications Due: Jul 07, 2009. See link to full announcement for details. IMPORTANT NOTE: Applications submitted electronically via Grants.gov must be submitted no later than 4:30 p.m., eastern time, on the due date referenced above.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently made available for public viewing the Program Guidance for the Assistance to Firefighters Fire Station Construction Grants. The application period for the Station Construction Grants (SCG) is scheduled to begin on June 11, 2009, at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Applications for these grants must be received by July 10, at 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time).
SCG was established as part of the Administration's economic stimulus package under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA). SCG will provide financial assistance directly to fire departments on a competitive basis to build new or modify existing fire stations in order for departments to enhance their response capability and protect the community they serve from fire and fire-related hazards. The grants will be administered by the DHS/Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Grant Programs Directorate in coordination with the U.S. Fire Administration by the AFG Program Office.
The e-application and an applicant tutorial are available through the www.firegrantsupport.com website. The tutorial provides you with valuable grant information and walks you through the preparation and submittal of competitive applications. In addition, the applicant tutorial provides an overview of the funding priorities and evaluation criteria.During the application period, the help desk will operate Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturdays (Eastern Time). However, the helpdesk will close at 4:30 p.m., on Friday, July 3rd and will not be open on Saturday, July 4th. Applicants who have questions regarding the Fire Station Construction Grants opportunity should contact the help desk at 1-866-274-0960 or at firegrants@dhs.gov.
The AFG Program is administered by the DHS/FEMA Grants Program Directorate in coordination with the U.S. Fire Administration.
Assistance to Firefighters Fire Station Construction Grants Program Guidance - visit
http://www.firegrantsupport.com/docs/2009SCGguidance.pdf
Assistance to Firefighters Fire Station Construction Grants FAQs - will be available through
the www.firegrantsupport.com website.
SCG was established as part of the Administration's economic stimulus package under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA). SCG will provide financial assistance directly to fire departments on a competitive basis to build new or modify existing fire stations in order for departments to enhance their response capability and protect the community they serve from fire and fire-related hazards. The grants will be administered by the DHS/Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Grant Programs Directorate in coordination with the U.S. Fire Administration by the AFG Program Office.
The e-application and an applicant tutorial are available through the www.firegrantsupport.com website. The tutorial provides you with valuable grant information and walks you through the preparation and submittal of competitive applications. In addition, the applicant tutorial provides an overview of the funding priorities and evaluation criteria.During the application period, the help desk will operate Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturdays (Eastern Time). However, the helpdesk will close at 4:30 p.m., on Friday, July 3rd and will not be open on Saturday, July 4th. Applicants who have questions regarding the Fire Station Construction Grants opportunity should contact the help desk at 1-866-274-0960 or at firegrants@dhs.gov.
The AFG Program is administered by the DHS/FEMA Grants Program Directorate in coordination with the U.S. Fire Administration.
Assistance to Firefighters Fire Station Construction Grants Program Guidance - visit
http://www.firegrantsupport.com/docs/2009SCGguidance.pdf
Assistance to Firefighters Fire Station Construction Grants FAQs - will be available through
the www.firegrantsupport.com website.
From the editorial "For a vacation, it is sweet home Alabama" by Rep. Alan Harper in The Northport Gazette. For the complete editorial see
http://www.northportgazette.com/articles/2009/06/17/opinion/editorials/doc4a394c9b181b1958779489.txt
Summer is certainly here, along with its constant heat and humidity. The weather has many of us thinking about vacation, yet with the economy as it is and gas prices starting their annual summer increase, we are thinking less about going great distances and instead looking for spots much closer to home. Everyone already knows that Alabama is blessed with lakes and beaches, the two things that can help beat the heat. There are great state parks across the state right on the water that make for great affordable family vacations, as well as parks in the mountains and forests that offer terrific getaways. Another great Alabama vacation theme is to take a trip into our state's history.
The Alabama Tourism Department has labeled 2009 the "Year of Alabama History," and has done a terrific job listing and promoting the hundreds of historical events and places in our history-rich state. The department's Alabama history tourism website says it best. "Etched in the cornerstone of our American heritage, you will discover Native American, Civil War and Civil Rights history, as well as a proud heritage in music, sports and aviation in Alabama. In fact, everywhere you travel along our Southern soil - from the state's birthplace in Huntsville to Birmingham, our largest city, to historic Montgomery and on down to the coastal plains, you will see history reflected in pine-rimmed rivers, flowing from lofty mountaintops, captured in old homes, and echoing from the shadows of mammoth caves."
Summer is certainly here, along with its constant heat and humidity. The weather has many of us thinking about vacation, yet with the economy as it is and gas prices starting their annual summer increase, we are thinking less about going great distances and instead looking for spots much closer to home. Everyone already knows that Alabama is blessed with lakes and beaches, the two things that can help beat the heat. There are great state parks across the state right on the water that make for great affordable family vacations, as well as parks in the mountains and forests that offer terrific getaways. Another great Alabama vacation theme is to take a trip into our state's history.
The Alabama Tourism Department has labeled 2009 the "Year of Alabama History," and has done a terrific job listing and promoting the hundreds of historical events and places in our history-rich state. The department's Alabama history tourism website says it best. "Etched in the cornerstone of our American heritage, you will discover Native American, Civil War and Civil Rights history, as well as a proud heritage in music, sports and aviation in Alabama. In fact, everywhere you travel along our Southern soil - from the state's birthplace in Huntsville to Birmingham, our largest city, to historic Montgomery and on down to the coastal plains, you will see history reflected in pine-rimmed rivers, flowing from lofty mountaintops, captured in old homes, and echoing from the shadows of mammoth caves."
Continue reading Vacation in Sweet Home Alabama.
The U.S. Department of Commerce has announced the top states, cities, and territories that are benefiting from overseas travel to the United States. In 2008, the United States experienced a 6 percent growth rate in overseas arrivals, and rate increases in the double-digits occurred in seven of the 21 states and territories where estimates are available.
Read the full press release at the ITA Office of Travel and Tourism Industries website.
Read the full press release at the ITA Office of Travel and Tourism Industries website.
On April 28, 2009, the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation conducted a Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety, and Security Subcommittee hearing on The Future of National Surface Transportation Policy. Majority statements were delivered by Senator John D. Rockefeller IV (D-WV), and Minority statements were delivered by Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX). Panelists included The Honorable Ray LaHood, Secretary of the Department of Transportation, as well as Anne P. Canby, President, Surface Transportation Policy Partnership, James Corless, Campaign Director, Transportation for America, Steve Heminger, Executive Director, Metropolitan Transportation Commission, and Ned S. Holmes, Texas Transportation Commissioner and Chairman, Transportation Transformation Group.
To view the archived webcast of the hearing or to read the transcripts, visit the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation website.
To view the archived webcast of the hearing or to read the transcripts, visit the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation website.
The 20th mural entitled "Wiregrass Music" was dedicated on Wednesday, June 10th in the historic section of Downtown Dothan. The mural features people in the Wiregrass area that have excelled in the music industry. Included on the mural are: Ray Charles (born in Albany, GA), Dean Daughtry (keyboards for The Candymen, Classics IV & Atlanta Rhythm Section), Buddy Buie (songwriter & producer), John Rainey Adkins (The Webs, The Candymen, Beaverteeth), David Adkins (Beaverteeth), Wilbur Walton, Jr. (The James Gang), Mickey Thomas (Elvin Bishop Group, Jefferson Starship/Starship), Martha Reeves (of Martha Reeves and the Vandellas - born in Eufaula), Bobby Goldsboro (singer/songwriter). This will be the first of three murals dedicated to Wiregrass Music.
On hand for the ceremony were honorees Dean Daughtry, Buddy Buie, David Adkins, Wilbur Walton, Jr., and Bobby Goldsboro. Other special guests included Marilyn Stamps of the Alabama Tourism Department, David Johnson of the Alabama Music Hall of Fame, songwriter/producer Chips Moman and numerous other celebrities in the music industry that came to honor those on the mural. Dothan CVB Executive Director Bob Hendrix, who also serves on the Wiregrass Festival of Murals committee, said, "The murals in Downtown Dothan have become one of our major attractions that bring tourists and tour groups to our area on a regular basis."
For more information on Dothan tourism see www.dothanalcvb.com.
On hand for the ceremony were honorees Dean Daughtry, Buddy Buie, David Adkins, Wilbur Walton, Jr., and Bobby Goldsboro. Other special guests included Marilyn Stamps of the Alabama Tourism Department, David Johnson of the Alabama Music Hall of Fame, songwriter/producer Chips Moman and numerous other celebrities in the music industry that came to honor those on the mural. Dothan CVB Executive Director Bob Hendrix, who also serves on the Wiregrass Festival of Murals committee, said, "The murals in Downtown Dothan have become one of our major attractions that bring tourists and tour groups to our area on a regular basis."
For more information on Dothan tourism see www.dothanalcvb.com.
Historic Preservation Training Seminar
July 23,2009
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Historic Barna Theatre
600 Greensboro Avenue
This workshop provides annual training for local historic preservation commission members and staff to meet Certified Local Government (CLG) requirements. Communities interested in establishing a local historic preservation planning program in accordance with CLG requirements are also encouraged to attend.
Registration: 8:00 - 8:45
Program: 9:00 - 4:00
The featured speaker is David Schneider, Executive Director of the Alabama Trust for Historic Preservation. Ethics training for Preservation Commissioners will be provided by City of Tuscaloosa Office of the City Attorney. After lunch at one of Downtown Tuscaloosa's fine dining establishments, there will be a tour of Tuscaloosa's Downtown Urban Renewal Project.
The tour will also include a visit to the Historic Queen City Bathhouse, which is currently being converted to a museum. For more information, please contact Brendan Moore at bmoore@tuscaloosa.com or Sherry King at sking@tuscaloosa.com.
July 23,2009
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Historic Barna Theatre
600 Greensboro Avenue
This workshop provides annual training for local historic preservation commission members and staff to meet Certified Local Government (CLG) requirements. Communities interested in establishing a local historic preservation planning program in accordance with CLG requirements are also encouraged to attend.
Registration: 8:00 - 8:45
Program: 9:00 - 4:00
The featured speaker is David Schneider, Executive Director of the Alabama Trust for Historic Preservation. Ethics training for Preservation Commissioners will be provided by City of Tuscaloosa Office of the City Attorney. After lunch at one of Downtown Tuscaloosa's fine dining establishments, there will be a tour of Tuscaloosa's Downtown Urban Renewal Project.
The tour will also include a visit to the Historic Queen City Bathhouse, which is currently being converted to a museum. For more information, please contact Brendan Moore at bmoore@tuscaloosa.com or Sherry King at sking@tuscaloosa.com.
Are you working to create or improve a greenway, trail or waterway? Apply for a Kodak American Greenways Award grant and your organization could receive up to $2,500 in grant funds.
The Eastman Kodak Company, The Conservation Fund and the National Geographic Society team up each year to present the Kodak American Greenways Awards Program. One major aspect of the Program provides grant funding to organizations that enhance our nation's outdoor heritage by creating and restoring greenways, blueways, trails and open space systems.
This year's application deadline has been extended to July 15th. Most grants range from $500 to $1,000. The maximum grant is $2,500.
For more information, access to the grant guidelines and application, please see: http://www.conservationfund.org/kodak_awards
The Eastman Kodak Company, The Conservation Fund and the National Geographic Society team up each year to present the Kodak American Greenways Awards Program. One major aspect of the Program provides grant funding to organizations that enhance our nation's outdoor heritage by creating and restoring greenways, blueways, trails and open space systems.
This year's application deadline has been extended to July 15th. Most grants range from $500 to $1,000. The maximum grant is $2,500.
For more information, access to the grant guidelines and application, please see: http://www.conservationfund.org/kodak_awards
If you are interested in learning how to sell on EBAY, then this FREE workshop for you! Whether you are a business looking to sell excess inventory, or an individual hoping to make extra cash from items around the house, join us at the Alabama Rural Heritage Center in Thomaston, Alabama to learn everything you need to know about how to make money on EBAY.
Please RSVP to Glen Haab at ghaab@ascc.edu or 334.637.3218 by June 26, 2009.
SEATING IS LIMITED.
6/30/2009 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Please RSVP to Glen Haab at ghaab@ascc.edu or 334.637.3218 by June 26, 2009.
SEATING IS LIMITED.
6/30/2009 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that USDA is accepting applications for grants to help low- and very-low-income rural residents repair their homes.
"Housing is a cornerstone of any thriving, stable community," Vilsack said. "As the Obama administration works to ensure that people remain in their homes, it is more important than ever to make certain their homes are safe, energy efficient, livable dwellings."
Housing Preservation Grants are provided to intermediaries such as town or county governments, public agencies, federally recognized Indian Tribes, and nonprofit and faith- based organizations. The grants are distributed to homeowners or owners of multi-family rental properties or cooperative dwellings who rent to low- and very-low-income people.
Grants can be used to weatherize and repair existing structures, install or improve plumbing or provide access to people with disabilities. For example, the Gateway Community Action Agency used a USDA Rural Development Housing Preservation grant in 2008 to make accessibility, weatherization and other improvements to William Reed's home in Owingsville, Ky. Gateway added insulation, weather stripping, seals around doors and windows, an energy-saving shower head and more efficient light bulbs.
USDA may award up to $10 million in competitive grants through this notice. The grants to be awarded are part of USDA Rural Development's annual budget and are not funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
Applications are due by the close of business July 10, 2009. Applications may be accessed electronically at http://www.grants.gov. Also see the May 11, 2009, Federal Register, page 21775.
USDA Rural Development's mission is to increase economic opportunity and improve
the quality of life for rural residents. Rural Development fosters growth in homeownership, finances business development and supports the creation of critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available at a local USDA Rural Development office or by visiting USDA Rural Development's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov.
"Housing is a cornerstone of any thriving, stable community," Vilsack said. "As the Obama administration works to ensure that people remain in their homes, it is more important than ever to make certain their homes are safe, energy efficient, livable dwellings."
Housing Preservation Grants are provided to intermediaries such as town or county governments, public agencies, federally recognized Indian Tribes, and nonprofit and faith- based organizations. The grants are distributed to homeowners or owners of multi-family rental properties or cooperative dwellings who rent to low- and very-low-income people.
Grants can be used to weatherize and repair existing structures, install or improve plumbing or provide access to people with disabilities. For example, the Gateway Community Action Agency used a USDA Rural Development Housing Preservation grant in 2008 to make accessibility, weatherization and other improvements to William Reed's home in Owingsville, Ky. Gateway added insulation, weather stripping, seals around doors and windows, an energy-saving shower head and more efficient light bulbs.
USDA may award up to $10 million in competitive grants through this notice. The grants to be awarded are part of USDA Rural Development's annual budget and are not funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
Applications are due by the close of business July 10, 2009. Applications may be accessed electronically at http://www.grants.gov. Also see the May 11, 2009, Federal Register, page 21775.
USDA Rural Development's mission is to increase economic opportunity and improve
the quality of life for rural residents. Rural Development fosters growth in homeownership, finances business development and supports the creation of critical community and technology infrastructure. Further information on rural programs is available at a local USDA Rural Development office or by visiting USDA Rural Development's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov.
The State Energy Program (SEP) is a formula grant from DOE, managed by the Energy Division at ADECA, and is utilized to plan and implement energy programs in Alabama that are designed to achieve national energy goals such as lowering energy costs and consumption, decreasing reliance on imported energy, reducing impacts of energy production and use on the environment, and to increase energy security and reliability. $57.5 million has been designated for this program in Alabama by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) . The Request for Proposals has been issued and is available below. All proposals must be submitted by 5:00 p.m., June 29, 2009. http://www.adeca.alabama.gov/C7/SEP-ARRA/default.aspx
Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant (EECBG)
REQUEST FOR PRE-APPLICATIONS
The EECBG program, funded by the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), is designed to help eligible entities create and implement strategies to create jobs, reduce total energy use, and improve energy efficiency in the building and transportation sectors. More information on the program is available on the EECBG webpage at http://www.eecbg.energy.gov/ or you can read the Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) at http://www.fedconnect.net/, opportunity number DE-FOA-0000013.
The Energy Division of the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) will receive approximately $10.3 million for the EECGB Program, 60% of which must be used for subgrants to cities and counties not receiving direct formula funding. The maximum award per government entity is anticipated to be $250,000. Multi-entity projects are encouraged and will receive priority consideration. If two or more units of local government partner on an application, the total eligible award would be the sum of the limits for each governmental entity. For example, one county and two cities may partner together on an application for $750,000. Matching funds will not be required for these grants, but are encouraged. Projects that achieve a high degree of leveraging and/or extend the impact of the funds will be given additional consideration.
Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant (EECBG)
REQUEST FOR PRE-APPLICATIONS
The EECBG program, funded by the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), is designed to help eligible entities create and implement strategies to create jobs, reduce total energy use, and improve energy efficiency in the building and transportation sectors. More information on the program is available on the EECBG webpage at http://www.eecbg.energy.gov/ or you can read the Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) at http://www.fedconnect.net/, opportunity number DE-FOA-0000013.
The Energy Division of the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) will receive approximately $10.3 million for the EECGB Program, 60% of which must be used for subgrants to cities and counties not receiving direct formula funding. The maximum award per government entity is anticipated to be $250,000. Multi-entity projects are encouraged and will receive priority consideration. If two or more units of local government partner on an application, the total eligible award would be the sum of the limits for each governmental entity. For example, one county and two cities may partner together on an application for $750,000. Matching funds will not be required for these grants, but are encouraged. Projects that achieve a high degree of leveraging and/or extend the impact of the funds will be given additional consideration.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) (Fire) Station Construction Grants (SCG) are authorized by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (P.L. 111-5). The total amount of funds available under the FY 2009 ARRA SCG is $210,000,000. The purpose of the FY 2009 ARRA SCG is to create or save jobs in recession-hit areas and achieve other purposes stated in ARRA, and achieve AFG goals of firefighter safety and improved response capability/capacity based on need through the construction, renovation or modification of fire stations. Link to Full Announcement: http://www.firegrantsupport.com
Do Something is a national nonprofit organization that inspires young people to believe that change is possible, and trains, funds, and mobilizes them to be leaders who measurably strengthen their communities. Do Something Grants are available to U.S. and Canadian citizens, age 25 or under, who want to create a community action project, or further the success of an existing program. Over the course of 2009, one grant of $500 will be awarded each month. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and stay active for consideration for two months after submission. Visit the Do Something website to create a project posting and submit an online application. http://www.dosomething.org/grants
The Environmentally Sustainable Affordable Design (ESAD) Program supports educational initiatives that encourage sustainability and affordability in residential housing design throughout the United States. In addition, support is provided to nonprofit housing organizations that focus on the incorporation of the principles of sustainability in the design and construction of affordable residential housing. Letters of inquiry for the ESAD program may be submitted at any time. Visit the Oak Hill Fund's website for details about the program and online application information.
http://www.oakhillfund.org/oakhillesad.html
http://www.oakhillfund.org/oakhillesad.html
More photos coming soon!
Fort Morgan Candlelight Tour - Jun 2-28
Living history interpreters in Civil War period dress tell the story of Fort Morgan's Civil War service through historic vignettes based on actual events during special evening tours held each Tuesday during June and July.
"The Miracle Worker" Play - Jun 5-11
Now in its 48th year, this Broadway-style show recalls the childhood of deaf-blind Helen Keller, "American's First Lady of Courage," and her gifted teacher Anne Sullivan.
Festival of Quilts 2009 - Jun 5-7
Cransford Burns Middle School--Showcase of more than 300 quilts made by Azalea City Quilters Guild members and the award-winning quilt, "Ground Zero," by artist Lois Jarvis, who captured more than 700 images of victims from the Twin Towers on fabric, a merchant mall, silent auction and boutique.
7th Annual Art in the Garden: Juried Art Show - Jun 6-7
Open-air juried fine arts and crafts show featuring the works of more than 70 Alabama artists. Stroll through this beautiful 30-acre woodland garden as you view and purchase pottery, watercolors, oils, metal art, folk art, photography and much more.
June Walking Tours - Jun 6-27
Experience the culture and history of Alabama this summer with June Walking Tours. Thirty towns across the state are offering free guided walking tours each Saturday morning in June. Each tour begins at 10:00 a.m. and is approximately one hour long. Community leaders will escort you through the historic districts or courthouse square areas of their hometowns, sharing their personal remembrances and some tall tales from the old days.
Vulcan's 105th Birthday Bash - Jun 7
During this festive outdoor community event, the park will be filled with balloons, clowns, music, entertainment, food, fun and more in honor of Vulcan's special day.
9-1-1 Festival - Jun 12-13
The first 9-1-1 phone call was made from Haleyville on February 16, 1968. Festival honors all police, fire, and emergency personel and inlcudes a Street Dance on Friday, and parade, arts and crafts, a car show, children's activities, food on Saturday.
Hank Williams Festival, 30th - Jun 12-13
Tribute to native son, Hank Williams, with country music, arts, crafts, food.
Alabama Sports Festival 27th Anniversary State Games - Jun 19-21
This is Alabama's largest multi-sport Olympic-style event with 20 sports being offered. The event includes an official opening ceremony with a parade of athletes, oath to athletes, lighting the cauldron, and musical entertainment. Open to all residents of Alabama.
Wilcox Riverbank Festival - Jun 27
A folklife festival at Black Belt Treasures with music, arts and crafts, children's activities with a fireworks show. Also ferry rides, games & more.
Living history interpreters in Civil War period dress tell the story of Fort Morgan's Civil War service through historic vignettes based on actual events during special evening tours held each Tuesday during June and July.
"The Miracle Worker" Play - Jun 5-11
Now in its 48th year, this Broadway-style show recalls the childhood of deaf-blind Helen Keller, "American's First Lady of Courage," and her gifted teacher Anne Sullivan.
Festival of Quilts 2009 - Jun 5-7
Cransford Burns Middle School--Showcase of more than 300 quilts made by Azalea City Quilters Guild members and the award-winning quilt, "Ground Zero," by artist Lois Jarvis, who captured more than 700 images of victims from the Twin Towers on fabric, a merchant mall, silent auction and boutique.
7th Annual Art in the Garden: Juried Art Show - Jun 6-7
Open-air juried fine arts and crafts show featuring the works of more than 70 Alabama artists. Stroll through this beautiful 30-acre woodland garden as you view and purchase pottery, watercolors, oils, metal art, folk art, photography and much more.
June Walking Tours - Jun 6-27
Experience the culture and history of Alabama this summer with June Walking Tours. Thirty towns across the state are offering free guided walking tours each Saturday morning in June. Each tour begins at 10:00 a.m. and is approximately one hour long. Community leaders will escort you through the historic districts or courthouse square areas of their hometowns, sharing their personal remembrances and some tall tales from the old days.
Vulcan's 105th Birthday Bash - Jun 7
During this festive outdoor community event, the park will be filled with balloons, clowns, music, entertainment, food, fun and more in honor of Vulcan's special day.
9-1-1 Festival - Jun 12-13
The first 9-1-1 phone call was made from Haleyville on February 16, 1968. Festival honors all police, fire, and emergency personel and inlcudes a Street Dance on Friday, and parade, arts and crafts, a car show, children's activities, food on Saturday.
Hank Williams Festival, 30th - Jun 12-13
Tribute to native son, Hank Williams, with country music, arts, crafts, food.
Alabama Sports Festival 27th Anniversary State Games - Jun 19-21
This is Alabama's largest multi-sport Olympic-style event with 20 sports being offered. The event includes an official opening ceremony with a parade of athletes, oath to athletes, lighting the cauldron, and musical entertainment. Open to all residents of Alabama.
Wilcox Riverbank Festival - Jun 27
A folklife festival at Black Belt Treasures with music, arts and crafts, children's activities with a fireworks show. Also ferry rides, games & more.
Some 30 towns across Alabama will be on display during Saturday mornings in June as part of the Alabama Tourism Department's June Walking Tours. A variety of community leaders will lead the free tours through the historic districts or courthouse square areas of their hometowns. The hour-long tours will start at 10 a.m. on June 6, 13, 20, and 27. The tours are being coordinated by Brian Jones with the Alabama Tourism Department. "Alabama is the only state in the nation to hold statewide, simultaneous walking tours. The beauty of the June Walking Tours is that any community, whether big or small, can do this. We have done more than 900 walking tours since the beginning of the program six years ago and they keep increasing in popularity every year," Jones said.
Towns and starting places for the June Walking Tours are: Ashland, High Point Coffee & Books; Athens, Limestone County Courthouse Annex Parking Lot; Birmingham, Civil Rights Institute; Butler, Jackson's Jewelry and Gift; Centerville, Bibb County Courthouse; Cullman, Cullman County Museum; Dadeville, Tallapoosa County Courthouse; Decatur, Old State Bank Building; Demopolis, City Hall; Dothan, Salute to the Peanut Industry Mural; Enterprise, Rawls Hotel; Fairhope, Fairhope Welcome Center; Fayette, Fayette Historical Depot; Florence, various starting locations; Gadsden, City Hall Gazebo; Gilbertown, The Village Shoppe; Guntersville, Chamber of Commerce; Hartselle, Downtown Historic Depot.
Huntsville, Alabama Constitution Village (June 6 & 13 only); Madison, Clay House Museum (June 20 & 27 only); Mobile, Cathedral of Immaculate Conception; Montevallo, Chamber of Commerce; Montgomery, Downtown Train Shed; Ozark, Confederate Monument/Courthouse; Prattville, Autauga County Heritage Center; Scottsboro, Jackson County Heritage Center; Selma, Selma-Dallas County Public Library; Sheffield, Sheffield Municipal Building; Tuscumbia, ColdWater Bookstore;West Blocton, Cahaba Lily Center; Wetumpka, Chamber of Commerce.
More information about the June Walking Tours is available by going online at www.alabama.travel or by calling 1-800-ALABAMA.
Towns and starting places for the June Walking Tours are: Ashland, High Point Coffee & Books; Athens, Limestone County Courthouse Annex Parking Lot; Birmingham, Civil Rights Institute; Butler, Jackson's Jewelry and Gift; Centerville, Bibb County Courthouse; Cullman, Cullman County Museum; Dadeville, Tallapoosa County Courthouse; Decatur, Old State Bank Building; Demopolis, City Hall; Dothan, Salute to the Peanut Industry Mural; Enterprise, Rawls Hotel; Fairhope, Fairhope Welcome Center; Fayette, Fayette Historical Depot; Florence, various starting locations; Gadsden, City Hall Gazebo; Gilbertown, The Village Shoppe; Guntersville, Chamber of Commerce; Hartselle, Downtown Historic Depot.
Huntsville, Alabama Constitution Village (June 6 & 13 only); Madison, Clay House Museum (June 20 & 27 only); Mobile, Cathedral of Immaculate Conception; Montevallo, Chamber of Commerce; Montgomery, Downtown Train Shed; Ozark, Confederate Monument/Courthouse; Prattville, Autauga County Heritage Center; Scottsboro, Jackson County Heritage Center; Selma, Selma-Dallas County Public Library; Sheffield, Sheffield Municipal Building; Tuscumbia, ColdWater Bookstore;West Blocton, Cahaba Lily Center; Wetumpka, Chamber of Commerce.
More information about the June Walking Tours is available by going online at www.alabama.travel or by calling 1-800-ALABAMA.
The Historic Chattahoochee Commission (HCC) has announced the continuation of its Matching Grant Program. Over the last twenty-three years, the HCC has distributed over $136,202 in matching monies to 64 different groups in its eighteen county bi-state region. Grants are provided on a 50/50 reimbursable basis with the goal of developing the Chattahoochee Trace's full potential for historic preservation and tourism. This program will provide financial assistance to any qualifying non-profit organization or agency headquartered within the Chattahoochee Trace region promoted by the HCC. In addition, the project for which funding is requested must contribute to the promotion of tourism, history and/or historic preservation. All projects funded under this program must be innovative in scope and application. Projects that are a continuation of on-going programs will not be eligible for consideration.
The Commission has set aside $10,000 during FY 2009-2010 to assist in the funding and development of various projects in the Chattahoochee Trace area of Alabama and Georgia. Previous grants have been awarded in the $500 to $3,500 range. All projects must begin after October 1, 2009 and be completed by August 2, 2010. Applications must be submitted on an official form provided by the HCC. Qualifying organizations should submit funding requests no later than 4:00 PM (CDT) on August 3, 2009 to: Chairman, HCC Matching Grants Committee, P. O. Box 33, Eufaula, Alabama 36072-0033. Matching grant applications and detailed guidelines are available on request at the listed address, by calling (334) 687-9755 (toll free at 877-766-2443), on the website (www.hcc-al-ga.org) or e-mail: trace@eufaula.rr.com. Grant recipients will be announced at the HCC's annual meeting in Eufaula, Alabama on September 24, 2009.
The Commission has set aside $10,000 during FY 2009-2010 to assist in the funding and development of various projects in the Chattahoochee Trace area of Alabama and Georgia. Previous grants have been awarded in the $500 to $3,500 range. All projects must begin after October 1, 2009 and be completed by August 2, 2010. Applications must be submitted on an official form provided by the HCC. Qualifying organizations should submit funding requests no later than 4:00 PM (CDT) on August 3, 2009 to: Chairman, HCC Matching Grants Committee, P. O. Box 33, Eufaula, Alabama 36072-0033. Matching grant applications and detailed guidelines are available on request at the listed address, by calling (334) 687-9755 (toll free at 877-766-2443), on the website (www.hcc-al-ga.org) or e-mail: trace@eufaula.rr.com. Grant recipients will be announced at the HCC's annual meeting in Eufaula, Alabama on September 24, 2009.
