News
For holiday gift twist, consider an Alabama adventure this year
Think outside the gift box this holiday season. From adrenaline-pumping adventures to high-end entertainment, the ways to experience Alabama are vast and varied, and they also make a perfect Christmas present. Here’s a twist on our annual “Made in Alabama” holiday gift guide, because there’s nothing you can put under the tree. But these Alabama…
Renovated state parks showcase rural Alabama’s advantages
EUFAULA, Alabama — New additions and renovations are under way at several Alabama State Parks, which are showcasing the natural assets and quality-of-life advantages of rural counties. At Lakepoint State Park in Barbour County, recent projects include an archery park and an off-road vehicle course. Both developments, along with newly-renovated cabins, are gaining popularity among…
Amazon teams with Tuskegee University for advanced training programs
TUSKEGEE, Alabama — Tuskegee University has a new partnership with Amazon that will establish advanced training programs in mechatronics, robotics, supply chain management and logistics operations for students at the Macon County institution. Amazon donated $1.2 million to fund the programs, which will also include scholarships and set up a pipeline for leadership roles at…
Mercedes-Benz launches EV production in Alabama as new chapter begins
VANCE, Alabama — Mercedes-Benz has launched production of the all-electric luxury EQS SUV at its Tuscaloosa County plant, part of a global strategy of next-generation technology that is ushering in a new era for Alabama’s auto industry. Mercedes has invested $7 billion in the state since it arrived in the early 1990s, and Alabama workers…
Study: Boeing’s Alabama economic impact reaches $2.7 billion
HUNTSVILLE, Alabama — Boeing contributes more than $2.7 billion each year to Alabama’s economy, along with 9,402 jobs in its sprawling operations and support network, according to a new study issued this week. The global space and defense manufacturer, which is marking its 60th year in the state, conducts a wide range of business activities in…
Across rural Alabama, downtowns are making an energetic comeback
Cities in rural Alabama are seeing a rebirth in their downtowns, with a blitz of new business openings, property renovations and multimillion-dollar investments. Pop-up shops, green spaces, art festivals and social media buzz are among the trends that are helping drive the efforts to bring merchants, residents and visitors back to the heart of the…
Alabama researchers focus on peanut genome to improve harvests
Peanuts are an important part of rural Alabama’s economy, and the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology is doing innovative research aimed at producing healthier harvests. Scientists at the Huntsville facility have partnered with the state’s farmers and agricultural industry leaders on genomic projects involving peanuts. The work involves an integrated approach, with researchers using input from…
University programs put spotlight on rural Alabama communities
Universities across Alabama are engaged in a number of activities that offer promising developments for the state’s rural communities and the key industries that power their economies. For example, Auburn University’s College of Veterinary Medicine is the site of a new program that will study diseases among livestock that pose a threat to public health,…
Alabama automakers gear up for new milestones in 2022
Alabama’s automakers are eyeing growth on many fronts in 2022, with plans for new models, additional employees and advanced technology that will help usher in the next era of vehicle manufacturing in the state. Mazda Toyota Manufacturing will continue to ramp up its auto assembly operations in Huntsville, following a year that saw the debut…
Priester’s Pecans, landmark Alabama brand, plans to harvest future growth
FORT DEPOSIT, Alabama – For more than 85 years, Priester’s Pecans has helped families across Alabama and beyond celebrate the holidays, and the Lowndes County company continues to write new chapters in its storied history. The pecan processor and handmade candy operation is in the middle of its busiest time of the year, as more…