April 2009 Archives
Nominations for the Governor's Tourism Awards are now open. Please contact Cynthia Flowers at Cynthia.Flowers@tourism.alabama.gov for the nomination form. Two new categories have been added for 2009: Rising Star Award for people with less than 2 years in the tourism industry and the Themed Campaign Award for local participation in state tourism's "Year of" promotional campaigns. The tourism awards will be presented at the Governor's Conference on Tourism at the Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa in Point Clear on Aug. 30 - Sept.1.
The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) will hold the 2009 Outdoor Alabama Expo at Oak Mountain State Park in Birmingham on Saturday, May 2. The event will be held from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., and offers the public a chance to experience the natural wonders of Alabama in the state's largest state park. Admission is free. State tourism staff member Grey Brennan will be at the Expo promoting outdoor tourism activities across the state. Brennan served as coordinator for the "Year of Outdoor Alabama" state tourism marketing campaign.
Expo participants will enjoy outdoor recreation and learn about conservation through a variety of exhibits, presentations and hands-on activities. Experts will help introduce Expo visitors to activities such as birding, fishing, boating safety, shooting sports, rock climbing and wildlife watching. Other Expo activities include: archery, a fish touch-tank containing live fish and other aquatic species from the Gulf, a birds of prey and snakes of Alabama presentation, a guided nature walk and boating safety activities, musical entertainment, and a helicopter water rescue demonstration. In addition to ADCNR activities there will be informational booths and demonstrations from other conservation organizations as well as booths from various food and retail vendors.
"The Expo provides a unique opportunity for the public to experience Alabama's natural resources in a festival-like atmosphere," said Barnett Lawley, ADCNR Commissioner. "The event is free and open to the public so we invite everyone to come be a part of it." The Oak Mountain Interpretive Center will also hold its grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony as a part of this year's Expo. The center houses a 45-seat auditorium and 2,500 sq. ft. of interactive exhibit space where visitors can learn about the park's ecology and wildlife.
For more information see http://www.outdooralabama.com/news/release.cfm?ID=689
Expo participants will enjoy outdoor recreation and learn about conservation through a variety of exhibits, presentations and hands-on activities. Experts will help introduce Expo visitors to activities such as birding, fishing, boating safety, shooting sports, rock climbing and wildlife watching. Other Expo activities include: archery, a fish touch-tank containing live fish and other aquatic species from the Gulf, a birds of prey and snakes of Alabama presentation, a guided nature walk and boating safety activities, musical entertainment, and a helicopter water rescue demonstration. In addition to ADCNR activities there will be informational booths and demonstrations from other conservation organizations as well as booths from various food and retail vendors.
"The Expo provides a unique opportunity for the public to experience Alabama's natural resources in a festival-like atmosphere," said Barnett Lawley, ADCNR Commissioner. "The event is free and open to the public so we invite everyone to come be a part of it." The Oak Mountain Interpretive Center will also hold its grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony as a part of this year's Expo. The center houses a 45-seat auditorium and 2,500 sq. ft. of interactive exhibit space where visitors can learn about the park's ecology and wildlife.
For more information see http://www.outdooralabama.com/news/release.cfm?ID=689
A group of Italian sculptors, dancers, artisans and musicians have been in the state for the past week participating in a variety of activities as part of the Alabama State Council on the Arts cultural exchange program with Pietrasanta, Italy. Pietrasanta is a coastal city located in the Tuscany region and is known as a center for sculpture production in Italy. Michelangelo is among the numerous artists who have lived and worked in the city.
Members of the Pietrasanta delegation have toured marble production facilities in Sylacauga, participated in Birmingham's Magic City Arts Connection festival, and performed with the Montgomery Ballet. Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange and Pietrasanta's Mayor Massimo Mallengni assured continuation of the cultural exchange with the signing of a Sister City Agreement at the Rosa Parks Museum in downtown Montgomery on Wednesday. Governor Bob Riley also presented the Pietrasanta officials with a proclamation at the state capitol. For more information see the Alabama State Council on the Arts website at http://www.arts.state.al.us/news/index-news.html
The cultural exchange program began last year when Alabama State Council on the Arts executive director Al Head, members of the arts council and a group of state artists traveled to Pietrasanta. The Alabama Tourism Department's "Year of Alabama Arts" promotion was used as the theme for the visit. For more on the Alabama delegation's visit to Pietrasanta see the First Draft magazine cover-story "Alabama Shares its Year of the Arts with Tuscany." http://www.writersforum.org/pdfs/FirstDraft/fall08.pdf
Members of the Pietrasanta delegation have toured marble production facilities in Sylacauga, participated in Birmingham's Magic City Arts Connection festival, and performed with the Montgomery Ballet. Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange and Pietrasanta's Mayor Massimo Mallengni assured continuation of the cultural exchange with the signing of a Sister City Agreement at the Rosa Parks Museum in downtown Montgomery on Wednesday. Governor Bob Riley also presented the Pietrasanta officials with a proclamation at the state capitol. For more information see the Alabama State Council on the Arts website at http://www.arts.state.al.us/news/index-news.html
The cultural exchange program began last year when Alabama State Council on the Arts executive director Al Head, members of the arts council and a group of state artists traveled to Pietrasanta. The Alabama Tourism Department's "Year of Alabama Arts" promotion was used as the theme for the visit. For more on the Alabama delegation's visit to Pietrasanta see the First Draft magazine cover-story "Alabama Shares its Year of the Arts with Tuscany." http://www.writersforum.org/pdfs/FirstDraft/fall08.pdf
http://www.yourtownalabama.org/calendar/ytacalendar.php
Added dozens of new events in the last few days. Be sure to check the calendar regularly for economic development, planning and community events, workshops and more!
Added dozens of new events in the last few days. Be sure to check the calendar regularly for economic development, planning and community events, workshops and more!
The Department of Homeland Security has posted the FY2009 Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) Program Guidance on the AFG Website. The application period opened on Wednesday, April 15, 2009, at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). Applications for these grants must be received by Wednesday, May 20, 2009, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT).
Nationally, the AFG awards, which will be distributed in phases, will ultimately provide approximately $510 million to fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations throughout the country. AFG awards aim to enhance response capabilities and to more effectively protect the health and safety of the public with respect to fire and other hazards. The grants enable local fire departments and emergency medical services organizations to purchase or receive training, conduct first responder health and safety programs, and buy equipment and response vehicles.
An applicant tutorial is available through the www.firegrantsupport.com website. The tutorial provides you with valuable grant information and will walk you through the preparation and submittal of competitive applications. In addition, the applicant tutorial will provide an overview of the funding priorities and evaluation criteria. Applicants who have questions regarding the Assistance to Firefighters Grants opportunity should contact the help desk at 1-866-274-0960 or at firegrants@dhs.gov . During the application period, the help desk will operate Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (EDT), but is prepared to revise hours of operation based on volume and demand. The AFG Program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Grant Programs Directorate in coordination with the U.S. Fire Administration.
For access to the FY09 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program Guidance or FAQs - visit www.firegrantsupport.com/afg/.
Nationally, the AFG awards, which will be distributed in phases, will ultimately provide approximately $510 million to fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations throughout the country. AFG awards aim to enhance response capabilities and to more effectively protect the health and safety of the public with respect to fire and other hazards. The grants enable local fire departments and emergency medical services organizations to purchase or receive training, conduct first responder health and safety programs, and buy equipment and response vehicles.
An applicant tutorial is available through the www.firegrantsupport.com website. The tutorial provides you with valuable grant information and will walk you through the preparation and submittal of competitive applications. In addition, the applicant tutorial will provide an overview of the funding priorities and evaluation criteria. Applicants who have questions regarding the Assistance to Firefighters Grants opportunity should contact the help desk at 1-866-274-0960 or at firegrants@dhs.gov . During the application period, the help desk will operate Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (EDT), but is prepared to revise hours of operation based on volume and demand. The AFG Program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Grant Programs Directorate in coordination with the U.S. Fire Administration.
For access to the FY09 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program Guidance or FAQs - visit www.firegrantsupport.com/afg/.
The Community-Oriented Connectivity Broadband Grant Program is designed to provide financial assistance to furnish broadband service in rural, economically-challenged communities where such service does not currently exist. Grant funds may be utilized to deploy broadband transmission service to critical community facilities, rural residents, and rural businesses and to construct, acquire, or expand, equip, and operate a community center that provides free access to broadband services to community residents for at least two years. Grants will be awarded, on a competitive basis, to entities serving communities of up to 20,000 inhabitants to ensure rural consumers enjoy the same quality and range of telecommunications service as are available in urban and suburban communities. Closing Date for Applications: Jun 19, 2009
http://www.usda.gov/rus/telecom/commconnect.htm
http://www.usda.gov/rus/telecom/commconnect.htm
By Cecilia Kang
Washington Post Staff Writer
Thursday, April 23, 2009
In the southwest corner of Virginia, where tobacco farms meet the Appalachian Mountains, two towns desperately in need of an economic boost were given what many had hoped would be a kick-start: access to high-speed Internet. Read the full article here.
Would you like to develop leadership skills in your children or students? Give them an opportunity to learn about disaster preparedness, participate in a full scale mock disaster exercise and meet new friends in the process? If so, register for Be Ready Camp. Located at the Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, Be Ready Camp is an innovative and unique five day full immersion residential camp that promotes citizen preparedness and participation to sixth graders in the State of Alabama.
Participants are selected through a competitive process and must be an Alabama resident who will be in the sixth grade in September 2009. The application process is open to all learners with applicants choosing to submit an essay, video or poster. Be Ready Camp is free to participants who are selected. It is the responsibility of the participant's parent and/or guardian to provide transportation to Huntsville, Alabama. If you would like more information on Be Ready Camp please visit the website www.BeReadyCamp.org for more information. Hope to see you there.
Participants are selected through a competitive process and must be an Alabama resident who will be in the sixth grade in September 2009. The application process is open to all learners with applicants choosing to submit an essay, video or poster. Be Ready Camp is free to participants who are selected. It is the responsibility of the participant's parent and/or guardian to provide transportation to Huntsville, Alabama. If you would like more information on Be Ready Camp please visit the website www.BeReadyCamp.org for more information. Hope to see you there.
Shoals Earth Day Fest takes place on April 25 at Wilson Park in Florence from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and will feature children-specific activities, educational speakers, art exhibits, information booths, and live demonstrations. It is the featured event of Earth Month in the Shoals. "The City of Florence is excited about the full slate of activities planned for the 2nd Annual Earth Day Festival in beautiful Wilson Park. With our bio-diesel program and our long commitment to recycling we look forward to participating with the many partners in this festival," said Florence Mayor Booby Irons.
For more information see www.ShoalsEarth.com
For more information see www.ShoalsEarth.com
Alabama's tourism and travel industry grew by three percent in 2008, according to a report released today by Governor Bob Riley. The report shows more than 22 million people visited Alabama last year and spent nearly $9.6 billion in the state. Those visitors also paid $702 million in state and local lodging and sales taxes.
The top five counties with the largest travel-related expenditures are: Baldwin County with almost $2.3 billion in travel-related spending, Jefferson County was second with more than $1.5 billion, Madison County was third at $991 million, Mobile County ranked fourth with more than $944 million and Montgomery County was fifth with nearly $558 million. These counties were also the most visited in the state in 2008 and account for 63 percent of the total number of visitors.
"Alabama has always been a family-friendly destination and that has helped us attract a growing number of visitors. Whether its families looking for an affordable vacation or convention planners seeking a good deal, Alabama continues to be a value destination," said Governor Riley. "The numbers for 2008 bring good economic news for Alabama. The dollars spent on tourism create jobs, grow local economies and generate needed tax revenues."
"The three percent increase in 2008 is good news, especially coming off a banner year in 2007 in which we saw a 10 percent increase. Over the 10 year period from 1998 to 2008, travel spending in Alabama has increased 77 percent," said State Tourism Director Lee Sentell. The industries most impacted by tourism spending include lodging, restaurants, general retail, entertainment, public transportation and auto transportation. The largest single travel expenditure was on food and drinks which accounted for 27 percent of all travel and tourism spending in the state. Public transportation was the next largest expenditure accounting for 26 percent, followed by auto transportation at 15 percent, lodging at 13 percent, entertainment and general retail each accounted for 10 percent of travel expenditures.
For a county-by-county breakdown of travel-related expenditures and employment figures see the complete 2008 Economic Impact Report at http://www.alabama.travel/media-room/report2008/
The top five counties with the largest travel-related expenditures are: Baldwin County with almost $2.3 billion in travel-related spending, Jefferson County was second with more than $1.5 billion, Madison County was third at $991 million, Mobile County ranked fourth with more than $944 million and Montgomery County was fifth with nearly $558 million. These counties were also the most visited in the state in 2008 and account for 63 percent of the total number of visitors.
"Alabama has always been a family-friendly destination and that has helped us attract a growing number of visitors. Whether its families looking for an affordable vacation or convention planners seeking a good deal, Alabama continues to be a value destination," said Governor Riley. "The numbers for 2008 bring good economic news for Alabama. The dollars spent on tourism create jobs, grow local economies and generate needed tax revenues."
"The three percent increase in 2008 is good news, especially coming off a banner year in 2007 in which we saw a 10 percent increase. Over the 10 year period from 1998 to 2008, travel spending in Alabama has increased 77 percent," said State Tourism Director Lee Sentell. The industries most impacted by tourism spending include lodging, restaurants, general retail, entertainment, public transportation and auto transportation. The largest single travel expenditure was on food and drinks which accounted for 27 percent of all travel and tourism spending in the state. Public transportation was the next largest expenditure accounting for 26 percent, followed by auto transportation at 15 percent, lodging at 13 percent, entertainment and general retail each accounted for 10 percent of travel expenditures.
For a county-by-county breakdown of travel-related expenditures and employment figures see the complete 2008 Economic Impact Report at http://www.alabama.travel/media-room/report2008/
NASAA has just updated its information on sources of additional funding opportunities through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The new edition of "Arts Opportunities in the Economic Stimulus Package" includes more details about grant categories and funding for which state arts agencies and nonprofit arts organizations may be eligible to apply. Please share this material with your constituents and encourage them to take advantage of all potential funding sources for the arts within ARRA.
Jesse Rye
Policy and Program Associate
National Assembly of State Arts Agencies
Jesse Rye
Policy and Program Associate
National Assembly of State Arts Agencies
A large exhibit about American Roots music is now touring Alabama. Currently in Tuscumbia, it will travel to Fort Payne, Tuskegee, Troy, Chatom and Livingston before the end of the year. Traveling with the major display from the Smithsonian is a display on Alabama roots music, funded by the Alabama Humanities Foundation. The sites are also preparing programs and exhibits about their community's music traditions. For information about locations and dates, visit www.alabamafolklife.org.
For the second straight month, Lucy Buffett and her Gulf Coast restaurant, LuLu's, have been recognized for a take-charge approach to going green. On April 3, Smart Coast awarded Buffett with the "Giraffe" Award, which in this case, recognizes Buffett for "sticking her neck out" for sustainability. Smart Coast is a non-profit organization for responsible growth along the gulf coast. The group presented Buffett with the award at the Alabama Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce monthly First Friday Forum. "I'm all about sticking my neck out," said Lucy Buffett. "But doing the right thing for the environment isn't such a big stretch. LuLu's is a fun place for people to see that green isn't just for fried green tomatoes." LuLu's is part of the Clean Coast Partnership, a partnership between the cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach and the Alabama Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce. LuLu's sets the bar in green initiatives by operating a wind turbine to help generate electricity, using biodegradable cups for drinks and by using grass-fed Alabama beef for its Cheeseburgers in Paradise.
In March, LuLu's was awarded the first Dauphin Island Sea Lab "Seventh Generation Award," which is given to a person or business in recognition of sustainability, stewardship and pro-active practice in considering our natural resources for the seventh generation. The Dauphin Island Sea Lab's Seventh Generation Award will be awarded at the Sea Lab's Discovery Day Open House on Saturday, April 18. The Award presentation to owner Lucy Buffet and General Manager Johnny Fisher will be at 11:00 a.m.
For more information on LuLu's at Homeport Marina see www.lulusathomeport.com
In March, LuLu's was awarded the first Dauphin Island Sea Lab "Seventh Generation Award," which is given to a person or business in recognition of sustainability, stewardship and pro-active practice in considering our natural resources for the seventh generation. The Dauphin Island Sea Lab's Seventh Generation Award will be awarded at the Sea Lab's Discovery Day Open House on Saturday, April 18. The Award presentation to owner Lucy Buffet and General Manager Johnny Fisher will be at 11:00 a.m.
For more information on LuLu's at Homeport Marina see www.lulusathomeport.com
Thousands of Mustang enthusiasts from all over the world will converge in Birmingham on April 17, 2009 - officially declared "Mustang Day" by the state of Alabama - to celebrate the 45th anniversary of an American icon: the Ford Mustang. Ford Motor Company and the Mustang Club of America will mark the 45th anniversary of America's favorite pony car with a four-day celebration at the Barber Motorsports Park. The event is expected to draw more than 2,500 Mustang enthusiasts and their beloved steeds, as well as hundreds of thousands of spectators.
Adding to the 45th anniversary celebration will be an epic Mustang convoy road-trip from the west that will travel across America's heartland bringing Mustangs from all over the United States to attend the big event in Birmingham. The convoy - which began in Las Vegas on Saturday, April 11 - is expected to grow to 500 cars from all over the country. The final day's drive is expected to nearly double in size with people from the entire eastern seaboard joining. Steven McCarley, president of the 11,000-member Mustang Club of America, says the 45th anniversary festivities are expected to draw Mustang fans from all over the world. "We have people coming in from 15 foreign countries, including Australia, Denmark and France," he said. "And some of them may be bringing their cars with them." Also in attendance will be nine original owners of the 1964 ½ Mustang and their historic pony cars. On Thursday night, 650 Mustangs will cruise in line from the Barber Motorsports Park to Homewood, a small city 10 to 15 miles outside of Birmingham, for a street party complete with food and live entertainment.
Hundreds of Mustang owners also will be given the opportunity to experience firsthand the excitement of driving their own cars around the racetrack in organized open track run sessions. "Many people are curious to see what it's like on the other side of the fence," said McCarley. "The racetrack makes a great background for pictures, so we'll have photographers capturing the cars as they're on the track." McCarley says it promises to be a weekend to remember. "Mustang is the glue that bonds all of us together," he said. "Whether you're a casual observer interested in seeing the latest model Mustang or a true fanatic who eats, sleeps and breathes Mustang, this is where you want to be to celebrate the 45th anniversary."
For more information about the Ford Mustang 45th anniversary celebration at Barber Motorsports visit www.mustangevents.org
Adding to the 45th anniversary celebration will be an epic Mustang convoy road-trip from the west that will travel across America's heartland bringing Mustangs from all over the United States to attend the big event in Birmingham. The convoy - which began in Las Vegas on Saturday, April 11 - is expected to grow to 500 cars from all over the country. The final day's drive is expected to nearly double in size with people from the entire eastern seaboard joining. Steven McCarley, president of the 11,000-member Mustang Club of America, says the 45th anniversary festivities are expected to draw Mustang fans from all over the world. "We have people coming in from 15 foreign countries, including Australia, Denmark and France," he said. "And some of them may be bringing their cars with them." Also in attendance will be nine original owners of the 1964 ½ Mustang and their historic pony cars. On Thursday night, 650 Mustangs will cruise in line from the Barber Motorsports Park to Homewood, a small city 10 to 15 miles outside of Birmingham, for a street party complete with food and live entertainment.
Hundreds of Mustang owners also will be given the opportunity to experience firsthand the excitement of driving their own cars around the racetrack in organized open track run sessions. "Many people are curious to see what it's like on the other side of the fence," said McCarley. "The racetrack makes a great background for pictures, so we'll have photographers capturing the cars as they're on the track." McCarley says it promises to be a weekend to remember. "Mustang is the glue that bonds all of us together," he said. "Whether you're a casual observer interested in seeing the latest model Mustang or a true fanatic who eats, sleeps and breathes Mustang, this is where you want to be to celebrate the 45th anniversary."
For more information about the Ford Mustang 45th anniversary celebration at Barber Motorsports visit www.mustangevents.org
Certified Alabama Planning and Zoning Official (CAPZO) training begins in Fultondale on April 16th and Bay Minette on April 17th. It's a great time for new board members, council members, city attorneys, city clerks, and planners to begin this certification program. Course descriptions, cost, and a registration form can be found on our website at www.una.edu/continuing-studies, select Alabama Planning Institute. You may also call 800-825-5862, extension 4862, or 256-765-4862 for more information or to register.
Fultondale
The Legal Foundation for Planning and Zoning in Alabama
Thursday, April 16, 2009: 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. (Course No. 09-PZ416)
$82 per person/$79 per person when 3 or more register from the same organization
Bay Minette
The Legal Foundation for Planning and Zoning in Alabama
Friday, April 17, 2009: 9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (Course No. 09-PZ200)
$82 per person/$79 per person when 3 or more register from the same organization
Powers, Duties, & Responsibilities of Planning Commissions and Boards of Adjustment
Friday, April 17, 2009: 1:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Course No. 09-PZ201)
$82 per person/$79 per person when 3 or more register from the same organization
RECERTIFICATION--Need a recertification course? Several seminars that qualify for CAPZO recertification will be held in various locations throughout the state.
SIGN REGULATION AND MANUFACTURED HOUSING IN YOUR COMMUNITY
Prattville, AL - Thursday, April 24, 2009: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. (Course No. 09-PZ403)*
Fultondale, AL - Saturday, June 20, 2009: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. (Course No. 09-PZ620)**
Florence, AL - Saturday, July 25, 2009: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. (Course No. 09-PZ725)**
Cost: $169/$159 when 3 or more register together
PLANNING FOR SUSTAINABILITY
Tuskegee, AL - Thursday, May 21, 2009: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Course No. 09-PZ521)**
Bay Minette, AL - Friday, July 17, 2009: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. (Course No. 09-PZ205)**
Cost: $169/$159 when 3 or more register together
12TH ANNUAL ALABAMA LAND USE LAW UPDATE
Fultondale, AL - Friday, May 22, 2009: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Course No. 09-PZ522)
Mobile, AL - Friday, September 11, 2009: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Course No. 09-PZ828)
Cost: $169/$159 when 3 or more register together/$179 CLE
*CM has been approved for this event
**CM has been requested for this event
Fultondale
The Legal Foundation for Planning and Zoning in Alabama
Thursday, April 16, 2009: 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. (Course No. 09-PZ416)
$82 per person/$79 per person when 3 or more register from the same organization
Bay Minette
The Legal Foundation for Planning and Zoning in Alabama
Friday, April 17, 2009: 9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (Course No. 09-PZ200)
$82 per person/$79 per person when 3 or more register from the same organization
Powers, Duties, & Responsibilities of Planning Commissions and Boards of Adjustment
Friday, April 17, 2009: 1:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Course No. 09-PZ201)
$82 per person/$79 per person when 3 or more register from the same organization
RECERTIFICATION--Need a recertification course? Several seminars that qualify for CAPZO recertification will be held in various locations throughout the state.
SIGN REGULATION AND MANUFACTURED HOUSING IN YOUR COMMUNITY
Prattville, AL - Thursday, April 24, 2009: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. (Course No. 09-PZ403)*
Fultondale, AL - Saturday, June 20, 2009: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. (Course No. 09-PZ620)**
Florence, AL - Saturday, July 25, 2009: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. (Course No. 09-PZ725)**
Cost: $169/$159 when 3 or more register together
PLANNING FOR SUSTAINABILITY
Tuskegee, AL - Thursday, May 21, 2009: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Course No. 09-PZ521)**
Bay Minette, AL - Friday, July 17, 2009: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. (Course No. 09-PZ205)**
Cost: $169/$159 when 3 or more register together
12TH ANNUAL ALABAMA LAND USE LAW UPDATE
Fultondale, AL - Friday, May 22, 2009: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Course No. 09-PZ522)
Mobile, AL - Friday, September 11, 2009: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Course No. 09-PZ828)
Cost: $169/$159 when 3 or more register together/$179 CLE
*CM has been approved for this event
**CM has been requested for this event
Registration is underway for "Sign Regulation and Manufactured Housing in Your Community." This seminar will be held on Friday, April 24, 2009, 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., at Marriott Legends at Capitol Hill, Prattville, AL. This course has been approved for Certification Maintenance (6.0 Hours) and also qualifies for CAPZO recertification. For more information or to register, please call me at 256-765-4786. You may also register online at www.una.edu/continuing-studies, select Alabama Planning Institute.
On June 18-19, ECDI will present Going Green: Sustainable Economic Development at The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center. During this course, leading economic and community development practitioner-experts will present innovative ideas and practices based upon proven success in energy-conscious and environmentally-friendly development. Throughout the course, participants will be encouraged to ask questions and engage in constructive dialogue about the challenges, possibilities, and potential of going green. The course curriculum is specifically targeted to meet the training and educational needs of economic developers, chamber of commerce officials, state and local elected officials and community leaders, utility company representatives, and community and regional planners.
We have provided a variety of registration options for your convenience. CLICK HERE to register online using a check or credit card. If you prefer to register by mail or fax, CLICK HERE for the course brochure, and follow the instructions on the attached registration form. The course registration fee is $225.
Please visit the course website at www.auburn.edu/ecdi/green09.html, or contact Allyson Martin at ahm0007@auburn.edu or (334) 844-3685 for more information.
We have provided a variety of registration options for your convenience. CLICK HERE to register online using a check or credit card. If you prefer to register by mail or fax, CLICK HERE for the course brochure, and follow the instructions on the attached registration form. The course registration fee is $225.
Please visit the course website at www.auburn.edu/ecdi/green09.html, or contact Allyson Martin at ahm0007@auburn.edu or (334) 844-3685 for more information.
| Date: | Tuesday, April 14, 2009 |
| Time: | 5:00pm - 7:00pm |
| Location: | Black Belt Treasures |
| Street: | 209 Claiborne Street |
| City/Town: | Camden, AL |
Black Belt Treasures and The Alabama Humanities Foundation invite you to attend the first of three programs designed to examine the history and evolution of artistic practices and their contribution to the human experience. Three programs offered in April and June will provide opportunities to hear and experience scholarship on topics of local and universal interest.
This first session features Alabama Folk Pottery
author Joey Brackner who will lecture and lead a discussion on
the history of folk pottery, identifying specific areas of traditional
pottery in Black Belt Alabama. Brackner's lecture will be followed by pottery demonstrations by Allen Ham and Sam Williams.
Allen Ham is a fifth generation potter and descendant of the Le Coste family (potters who arrived in Alabama in the early 1800s and have passed traditional pottery techniques through the family). He will demonstrate the traditional form of pottery.
Sam Williams, a well known and prolific potter in Black Belt Alabama, is a contemporary potter who is using the art form in new and innovative ways. The two demonstrations will illustrate the evolution of pottery as an art form.
Joey Brackner's book, Alabama Folk Pottery
, as well as pottery by Allen Ham
and Sam Williams is available for purchase at Black Belt Treasures.
Committees in both the House and the Senate have passed the school start date bill onto the full legislature for a vote. The bill would ensure that state schools will not start back for the fall semester until August 15. Alabama Education Association (AEA) executive secretary Dr. Paul Hubbert joined members of the Alabama tourism industry to speak in favor of the August 15 school start date during the committee hearings last week.
The state's economy could grow by more than $300 million if the school start date was moved to mid-August, a study by Montgomery economist Dr. Keivan Deravi shows. Schools would save money on utilities, teachers could earn more money on part-time jobs during a longer summer break, and families would have greater flexibility in planning vacations. Parents have joined tourism officials in support of a later start date. A January poll conducted by the Alabama Education Association's Capitol Survey Research Center found that 83 percent of voters want their legislators to create a standardized start date for public schools. The AEA delegates assembly approved a resolution in December calling for a later school start date.
Contact your state legislators to show them your support for the school start date bill. For more information contact Patti Culp, Executive Director, Alabama Travel Council patticulp@alabamatravel.org
The state's economy could grow by more than $300 million if the school start date was moved to mid-August, a study by Montgomery economist Dr. Keivan Deravi shows. Schools would save money on utilities, teachers could earn more money on part-time jobs during a longer summer break, and families would have greater flexibility in planning vacations. Parents have joined tourism officials in support of a later start date. A January poll conducted by the Alabama Education Association's Capitol Survey Research Center found that 83 percent of voters want their legislators to create a standardized start date for public schools. The AEA delegates assembly approved a resolution in December calling for a later school start date.
Contact your state legislators to show them your support for the school start date bill. For more information contact Patti Culp, Executive Director, Alabama Travel Council patticulp@alabamatravel.org
Online auto insurance company Esurance is promoting Huntsville's Space Camp as "the next best thing to Starfleet" in its new sweepstakes for the upcoming Star Trek movie. Esurance is offering a trip for two to Space Camp at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center as the grand prize in its "Explore New Worlds" sweepstakes. The promotion is linked to the May 8 release of "Star Trek" by Paramount Pictures. www.spacecamp.com
If you would like to learn more information regarding the new federal stimulus package passed by Congress and signed by the President and how it affects the State of Alabama, please click the link below.
http://recovery.alabama.gov/
http://recovery.alabama.gov/
The Federal Save America's Treasures program offers grants for preservation and/or conservation work on nationally significant intellectual and cultural artifacts and historic structures and sites. Intellectual and cultural artifacts include objects, collections, documents, sculpture, and works of art. Historic structures and sites include districts, buildings, areas, and structures. Deadline: May 22, 2009
Grants are awarded to federal, state, local, and tribal governments as well as nonprofit organizations through a competitive matching grant program. The program is administered by the National Park Service in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and the President's Committee on the Arts and the Humanities. In 2009, grant amounts will range from $25,000 to $700,000 each for collections, and from $125,000 to $700,000 each for historic property and sites projects. All awards must be matched on a 1:1 basis.
Last year, IMLS and its partners awarded forty grants totaling $10.5 million.
Link to Complete RFP:
http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/rfp_item.jhtml?id=247900016
Grants are awarded to federal, state, local, and tribal governments as well as nonprofit organizations through a competitive matching grant program. The program is administered by the National Park Service in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and the President's Committee on the Arts and the Humanities. In 2009, grant amounts will range from $25,000 to $700,000 each for collections, and from $125,000 to $700,000 each for historic property and sites projects. All awards must be matched on a 1:1 basis.
Last year, IMLS and its partners awarded forty grants totaling $10.5 million.
Link to Complete RFP:
http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/rfp/rfp_item.jhtml?id=247900016
Thanks to the Alabama Tourism Department!
Eufaula Pilgrimage - Apr 3-5
"Alabama's Oldest Tour of Homes" features in addition to the tours, historic memorabilia, art show, antique show, afternoon tea, a picnic on the porch, and a display of a rare book collection at the Eufaula Athenaeum.
Spring Governor's Mansion Tours - Apr 3-4
Mansion and grounds will be open for tours to showcase the beauty of the historic home and gardens in the spring. Free tickets for the tours can be picked up across the street at the Governor's Mansion Gift Shop on Finley Avenue.
Dogwood and Azalea Driving Tour - Apr 10-30
Pick up a map for self-guided driving tour to see Cullman's two historic residential districts in bloom during the height of dogwood and azalea blooming season.
Battle of Selma Reenactment - Apr 16-19
Soldiers and cavalry of the Blue and Gray clash once again. School tours, camp dance, grand ball at Sturdivant Hall, memorial service and re-enactment fill the weekend.
Alabama Chicken and Egg Festival - Apr 18-19
Chicken-clucking contest, karaoke, live bantam chicken display, egg-eating contests, entertainment, arts and crafts fair and "Down on the Farm" agricultural expo.
Eufaula Pilgrimage - Apr 3-5
"Alabama's Oldest Tour of Homes" features in addition to the tours, historic memorabilia, art show, antique show, afternoon tea, a picnic on the porch, and a display of a rare book collection at the Eufaula Athenaeum.
Spring Governor's Mansion Tours - Apr 3-4
Mansion and grounds will be open for tours to showcase the beauty of the historic home and gardens in the spring. Free tickets for the tours can be picked up across the street at the Governor's Mansion Gift Shop on Finley Avenue.
Dogwood and Azalea Driving Tour - Apr 10-30
Pick up a map for self-guided driving tour to see Cullman's two historic residential districts in bloom during the height of dogwood and azalea blooming season.
Battle of Selma Reenactment - Apr 16-19
Soldiers and cavalry of the Blue and Gray clash once again. School tours, camp dance, grand ball at Sturdivant Hall, memorial service and re-enactment fill the weekend.
Alabama Chicken and Egg Festival - Apr 18-19
Chicken-clucking contest, karaoke, live bantam chicken display, egg-eating contests, entertainment, arts and crafts fair and "Down on the Farm" agricultural expo.
Continue reading Top 10 Events of Alabama for April 2009.
Local Leaders Will Highlight Economic Impact and Job Creation Potential of Transportation Projects
Congressman Artur Davis today announced the details of three upcoming Transportation Summits to be held in Selma, Birmingham and Tuscaloosa. The sessions are designed to foster an in-depth understanding of transportation-related projects in communities across the 7th Congressional District in advance of the federal transportation bill.
"I anticipate that I will have the opportunity to offer some level of input in the development of the transportation bill," said Congressman Davis. "These summits will allow me and members of my staff to hear directly from the local elected officials, economic developers, and business leaders who are immersed in the details of these projects and understand their communities' transportation needs best."
Attending stakeholders will have the opportunity to make a brief presentation about their project, including its economic impact and potential for jobs creation provided that they submit a copy of the completed project questionnaire in advance. See attachments below for details.
Prospective attendees should contact Special Projects Coordinator Sissy Hembree at (205) 254-1960 with any questions.
Congressman Artur Davis today announced the details of three upcoming Transportation Summits to be held in Selma, Birmingham and Tuscaloosa. The sessions are designed to foster an in-depth understanding of transportation-related projects in communities across the 7th Congressional District in advance of the federal transportation bill.
"I anticipate that I will have the opportunity to offer some level of input in the development of the transportation bill," said Congressman Davis. "These summits will allow me and members of my staff to hear directly from the local elected officials, economic developers, and business leaders who are immersed in the details of these projects and understand their communities' transportation needs best."
Attending stakeholders will have the opportunity to make a brief presentation about their project, including its economic impact and potential for jobs creation provided that they submit a copy of the completed project questionnaire in advance. See attachments below for details.
Prospective attendees should contact Special Projects Coordinator Sissy Hembree at (205) 254-1960 with any questions.
Forbes Traveler.com has selected the Underground Railroad Bicycle Route from Mobile to Canada as one of the "10 Great American Bike Trails." Alabama Tourism Department Marketing Manager Grey Brennan worked with the Adventure Cycling Association during the opening of the Underground Railroad Bicycle Route in 2007. http://www.forbestraveler.com/adventure/bike-trails-us-slide.html
On March 26th, the U. S. House of Representatives approved passage of the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009. This follows the passage of the same legislation in the U. S. Senate on January 15th. President Obama signed the act into law on March 30th. Contained within this legislation is the Chattahoochee Trace National Heritage Corridor Study Act which also became law at the same time. The Historic Chattahoochee Commission spent almost five years working to have this legislation approved by the U. S. Congress.
Once the National Heritage Area designation is formally approved, the Chattahoochee Trace region will be eligible to receive funding for publications and marketing for tourism, historic preservation, environmental education, outdoor recreation and small business development. National Heritage Areas are significant geographical, cultural and historical sites, as designated by the U. S. Congress. In contrast to National Parks, these areas are not federally owned or managed, but are maintained and controlled by local entities. In this instance, the Historic Chattahoochee Commission, a state agency of both Alabama and Georgia, will manage the Chattahoochee Trace National Heritage Area.
For further information on the Chattahoochee Trace National Heritage Corridor Study Act contact Doug Purcell, Executive Director, Historic Chattahoochee Commission, P. O. Box 33, Eufaula, AL 36072 or P. O. Box 942, LaGrange, GA 30241. E-mail inquiries may be directed to trace@eufaula.rr.com. or call 334-687-9755.
Once the National Heritage Area designation is formally approved, the Chattahoochee Trace region will be eligible to receive funding for publications and marketing for tourism, historic preservation, environmental education, outdoor recreation and small business development. National Heritage Areas are significant geographical, cultural and historical sites, as designated by the U. S. Congress. In contrast to National Parks, these areas are not federally owned or managed, but are maintained and controlled by local entities. In this instance, the Historic Chattahoochee Commission, a state agency of both Alabama and Georgia, will manage the Chattahoochee Trace National Heritage Area.
For further information on the Chattahoochee Trace National Heritage Corridor Study Act contact Doug Purcell, Executive Director, Historic Chattahoochee Commission, P. O. Box 33, Eufaula, AL 36072 or P. O. Box 942, LaGrange, GA 30241. E-mail inquiries may be directed to trace@eufaula.rr.com. or call 334-687-9755.
The state's economy could grow by more than $300 million a year if education officials change the school start date to later in August, a study by Montgomery economist Dr. Keivan Deravi shows. Schools would save money on utilities, teachers could earn more money on part-time jobs during a longer summer break, and families would have greater flexibility in planning vacations, advocates say. A coalition of statewide tourism organizations commissioned the study to support classes starting on or after Aug. 15, mirroring a trend in other Southern states.
Sen. Zeb Little of Cullman and Rep. Craig Ford of Gadsden drafted House Bill 629 that is scheduled for discussion Wednesday in the House Education Policy Committee. Little said, "The state is in economic crisis. Tax collections are down. Alabamians are losing jobs and education funding is being cut. This is a simple solution that can be enacted immediately. It will increase tax collections, create jobs and reduce non-instructional costs for school systems." Ford said, "Personally, I think the school year should start after Labor Day, but Aug. 15 is better than the current average start date of Aug. 6 or 7." Some 70 percent of Alabama schools started their instructional phase during the current school year last Aug. 7, the study found.
Reducing the number of days in August that classrooms require cooling "will cut statewide school utility bills by millions," said Ford. Boards of education could save an estimated $14 million a year - or 6% - in electrical bills by shifting instructional days from hotter days in August to cooler days in May, the Deravi report suggests. The legislators said economics isn't the primary reason for the proposal, but the data makes their case stronger. The Cullman senator said, "Teachers feel starting so early is detrimental to our children and parents are frustrated that their voices are ignored on the local level." The AEA delegates assembly approved a resolution in December calling for a later school start date. Parents have joined tourism officials in support of a later start date. A poll conducted by the Alabama Education Association's Capitol Survey Research Center found that 83 percent of voters want their legislators to create a standardized start date for public schools. The survey was conducted in January.
States began starting school earlier in order to complete first semester exams before the winter break and maximize the number of instructional days prior to standardized achievement testing in the spring. Many Southern states were responding to a 1983 report "A Nation At Risk," which issued a call to public schools to boost student achievement results. At least 11 states, most of them in the South, have enacted laws pushing school-start dates later in August or after Labor Day, Deravi said. Ford said that concerns about test scores are not justified. "Data from states that have adopted later start dates show that academics have not suffered. Test scores, college entrance exam scores and advanced placement test scores have increased," he said. Teachers and students who have part-time jobs in the summer would be able to earn more money if school did not start as early as it currently does, tourism officials say.
To read the full economic analysis report online see http://www.alabama.travel/media-room/DeraviStudy-EconomicImpactofEarlySchoolStart.pdf
Sen. Zeb Little of Cullman and Rep. Craig Ford of Gadsden drafted House Bill 629 that is scheduled for discussion Wednesday in the House Education Policy Committee. Little said, "The state is in economic crisis. Tax collections are down. Alabamians are losing jobs and education funding is being cut. This is a simple solution that can be enacted immediately. It will increase tax collections, create jobs and reduce non-instructional costs for school systems." Ford said, "Personally, I think the school year should start after Labor Day, but Aug. 15 is better than the current average start date of Aug. 6 or 7." Some 70 percent of Alabama schools started their instructional phase during the current school year last Aug. 7, the study found.
Reducing the number of days in August that classrooms require cooling "will cut statewide school utility bills by millions," said Ford. Boards of education could save an estimated $14 million a year - or 6% - in electrical bills by shifting instructional days from hotter days in August to cooler days in May, the Deravi report suggests. The legislators said economics isn't the primary reason for the proposal, but the data makes their case stronger. The Cullman senator said, "Teachers feel starting so early is detrimental to our children and parents are frustrated that their voices are ignored on the local level." The AEA delegates assembly approved a resolution in December calling for a later school start date. Parents have joined tourism officials in support of a later start date. A poll conducted by the Alabama Education Association's Capitol Survey Research Center found that 83 percent of voters want their legislators to create a standardized start date for public schools. The survey was conducted in January.
States began starting school earlier in order to complete first semester exams before the winter break and maximize the number of instructional days prior to standardized achievement testing in the spring. Many Southern states were responding to a 1983 report "A Nation At Risk," which issued a call to public schools to boost student achievement results. At least 11 states, most of them in the South, have enacted laws pushing school-start dates later in August or after Labor Day, Deravi said. Ford said that concerns about test scores are not justified. "Data from states that have adopted later start dates show that academics have not suffered. Test scores, college entrance exam scores and advanced placement test scores have increased," he said. Teachers and students who have part-time jobs in the summer would be able to earn more money if school did not start as early as it currently does, tourism officials say.
To read the full economic analysis report online see http://www.alabama.travel/media-room/DeraviStudy-EconomicImpactofEarlySchoolStart.pdf
