B I R M I N G H a M F O R W a R D July 2017

Inside this Issue

Birmingham MAX

Central Station Now Open ______

Cyber Security Made

Simple Workshop ______

Take Your Business to the Next Level

Birmingham Metro Black Chamber Workshop ______

JULY 2017 2017 Southern Region Diverse Supplier MAYOR’S OFFICE OF Automotive Summit ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Register Now ______COMMITTEE REPORT

Submitted by The Mayor’s Office of Economic Development Lisa D. Cooper - Director

William A. Bell, Sr. Mission Statement MAYOR The Mission of the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development is to facilitate the growth, diversification, and stability of the Birmingham economy; to create meaningful employment opportunities for all of the citizens of the city; and Visit us on the web at through an expanded economy, to provide a stable and growing tax base for www.birminghamal.gov the operations of city government.

B I R M I N G H A M F O R W A R D

New Economic Development Projects June 2017 JOBS CREATED AND/OR CITY NAME DESCRIPTION RETAINED INCENTIVES Site preparation for Phase 2, located across the street from Publix on 20th Street South is nearing 20 Midtown Phase 2 completion. Developer has LOIs and agreements TBD Included in Phase 1. with a number of retailers, not yet announced.

4th Ave Historic District Assisting with retail business plan for store front TBD TBD

B. L. Harbert Construction Company has purchased IDB abatements the vacant Alabama Crown building off Lakeshore Alabama Crown Building 20 initially, growing to 50 approved on Parkway and will convert it to a fabrication plant. November 7,

Company has purchased a building on 1st Avenue South and will relocate its corporate headquarters, warehousing and distribution from Homewood to Possible IDB Alabama Outdoors 80 Birmingham. Will also add a retail outlet in Pepper abatements. Place.

Presently located in Homewood, the company is

considering a relocation to the former Long-Lewis AllSouth Appliance Ford buildings downtown. Security is a major Expected request concern and meetings are being set up with B’ham TBD not yet received. Police Department to evaluate the company’s

concerns and hopefully alleviate them.

Located on the western edge of the CBD, America’s Infrastructure America’s First Federal Credit Union First has announced a $20 Million expansion. 85 assistance

Meeting scheduled for 7/6/17 with Frank Dominick to BEAT TBD TBD update proposed Ensley Flat Project

Very High tech provider of medical products and technology locating out of Innovation Depot is Possible IDB BioGX looking for sites in the City of Birmingham, with a 70 abatements favored site being adjacent to the former Trinity Medical Center on Montclair Road

Interested in creating a business incubator in Black Belt Technologies TBD N/A downtown North Birmingham

Downtown restaurant on 20th Street North plans expansion to double its size. Owner is in the Bistro 218 process of completing a cost-benefit analysis as he 20 TBD plans to ask for City incentives.

Proposed revenue Located in the former Libby Rich Plant Odyssey sharing of up to location, this second Carrigan’s location is hoping Carrigan’s Development TBD 40% of actual sales to open by the end of the year. A development tax revenues for 5 agreement received the BFED recommendation on years. June 26 and will go to Council on July 11. Project encompasses a half block anchored by the Up to $480,000 former Waite’s Bakery on 7th Avenue South. Project based on actual Central City is mixed-use residential-retail with a parking deck. 400 sales tax revenue Site preparation underway. over 5 years. .

ED is working with Rev. Beavers, Dr. Perry Ward and local developer Billy Eyster to convert the No specific request Century Plaza Re-use 200 vacant Century Plaza to a church, retail and a received. truck driving school. The CVB has outgrown space in the BJCC complex Convention and Vistitors Bureau and ED is assisting in securing space for a 40 retained None relocation.

New Economic Development Projects June 2017 JOBS CREATED AND/OR CITY NAME DESCRIPTION RETAINED INCENTIVES Early stages of the restoration of the former Davis Davis School school into a mixed use residential retail project. TBD TBD

Department of Commerce Project considering Birmingham location along with sites in other Department of Commerce Project TBD TBD states. Very early stages and further details TBD.

Jefferson County submitted option for collateral for EDA-RLF loan 6/28/17 N/A N/A

Presently located in Vance, this Mercedes Supplier has purchased the former Long-Lewis Hardware building downtown and will move its operation to Expected request Fitz-Thors Consulting Engineering the COB over the next 6 months. Other vacant 85 not yet received. space in the building is being marketed to other companies.

A transportation fleet management company that has moved into the Ladd Building on 19th Street. Fleetio The company manages fleet operation for many 27 None large companies in the Southeast.

Relocated from Palisades and, after the fact, asked if incentives assistance would be available from the Forestall Art Supply City, Details are being put in a letter to Lisa 0 added TBD Cooper.

New owner plans $11 million in capital improvements in converting the hotel to Double Hilton (Colonnade) TBD TBD Tree.

Reaching out to Developer for update and status of Holy Family Hospital N/A N/A project

Ensley seafood processing facility planning a major expansion in Ensley. Development Agreement Inland Seafood 80 HUD 108 support should go to BFED on July 10.

New Business looking to start rickshaw service to Iron City Rickshaw Company entertainment district, 20th St & Southside TBD N/A

The lease agreement with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has been fully executed. The Sherriff’s Office will improve the parking lot for use Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office TBD TBD by the Metro Area Crime Center and some of the Sheriff’s Office employees.

Final construction punch list completed and a LabCorp ribbon cutting is scheduled this summer. 400 retained None

Meeting scheduled for 7/6/17 to discuss partners Masonic Temple TBD TBD involved in project

Miami Fusion Café Met with representatives to discuss expansion plans TBD TBD

ED is working with The Museum staff to locate a major family restaurant in the building. Currently, Negro Southern League Museum three prospects are expected to submit proposals in TBD TBD Restaurant the next 2 weeks.

New Economic Development Projects June 2017 JOBS CREATED AND/OR CITY NAME DESCRIPTION RETAINED INCENTIVES Located on Highway 280, this is a varied menu family dining restaurant scheduled to open this Panda Express 40 None. summer.

The ED Department is working with the Birmingham Parking Authority to determine the feasibility of building a parking deck on the former Wittichen Parkside Parking N/A None Supply site in the Parkside District. The deck would serve numerous planned retail entities in the District

Local company looking to build a new distribution Project 1902 center in North Birmingham. Retained and new TBD TBD

Major unoccupied building in the City Center is expected to be under contract to a leading hotel TBD Project 96 100 developer by mid-September.

OED working with STRADA on acquiring property for the rapid rail system. The Federal Agreement with TBD the COB was signed May 31, 2017. Letters will be Project Acquisition TBD drafted to go out to the property owners as soon as possible during the month of June 2017.

After a period of inactivity, Department of Commerce Project considering Birmingham location Project Aurora along with sites in other states has become active. 1000 TBD Very early stages and further details TBD.

Staff is preparing an offer to the State per Mayor Project B&B directive to purchase Armory 50 N/A

A manufacturing facility is very close to purchasing IDB abatements Project Blade a vacant building in Valley East Industrial Park. 65

OED is working with STRADA on acquiring property Project BRT for the rapid rail system. Letters are being drafted TBD

and will be mailed to the property owners.

Project is being prepared to advance to Project Burkett Administration & Technology Committee.

Working w A Spurling to bring a restaurant to Project Cafe downtown Ensley TBD TBD

Property owner interested in development. Project Callins TBD TBD

Brought to the City by the BBA, several meetings have been held to try and advance this aviation project at the airport. No definitive request for TBD Project Clue 200 incentives yet received as we await direction from the developer and the prospect.

The Company is based out of Bridgeport, CT. They have identified property in the western area to build the new office. The company has engaged an Engineering firm to perform a flood mitigation study. Project Data 80 TBD OED is working with the company on acquiring City- owned sites and coordinating the development of the project with other City departments.

New Economic Development Projects June 2017 JOBS CREATED AND/OR CITY NAME DESCRIPTION RETAINED INCENTIVES A group of investors is pursuing a major venue in the Parkside area. ED and Corporate Realty are Project Doctor 200 IDB abatements pursuing and assisting the prospect.

Proposed High End Used Car dealership relocating Project Gallery from Homewood to Birmingham 15 N/A

Developer interested in developing a portion of Daniel Payne and the adjacent property into a Town TBD Project John Center. Developer is working on providing additional TBD information to support the project.

OED is working with an Organization looking to develop the former Northern Healthcare Center. The Project Health legal department is in the process of drafting a 60 TBD redevelopment agreement. The new center plans to serve the Northern area of the City.

A North Carolina Developer is working with the ED Mayor Bell has Department to place a major retail project, anchored responded to Project MAB by a full service grocery store at a location in the 175 incentives request & is Oxmoor Valley. awaiting a response from the developer.

OED working with local developer that is interested TBD Project Mixed Use in repurposing a City-owned building in the CBD. TBD

A distillery and event center, the project continues Project Molasses to progress with a second site under consideration. 100 IDB abatements

A traffic study is needed to review any possible additional curb cuts along Daniel Payne Industrial Drive. OED staff working with a company to locate Project Relocation TBD a headquarter office/warehouse facility in the Daniel TBD Payne Industrial Park on approximately 20+/- acres.

Company out of Texas is partnering with the Alabama Department of Transportation to provide Project Road Builder construction support for the interstate projects in the 400 IDB abatements City.

ED working on a project looking to locate in the Project State eastern area upon property acquisition. TBD TBD

Actually located just outside the COB and the Valley Acreage for East Industrial Park, this 700 employee employee parking in manufacturing and assembly plant will give ample adjacent COB land Project Sunrise employment opportunities to nearby Birmingham TBD donated with residents and the City will have an excellent approval of the opportunity to attract suppliers to Valley East. Mayor and Council.

Major Birmingham Construction Company considering expansion in the City. Early stages of Project Tom planning which could include a request for TBD TBD incentives.

OED working with a company interested in acquiring property in the downtown business district. A letter TBD was sent to the company with a recommended sales Project Theatre TBD price. OED is waiting on response from the company in order to move forward with the project.

New Economic Development Projects June 2017 JOBS CREATED AND/OR CITY NAME DESCRIPTION RETAINED INCENTIVES Project was approved by Council. Developer is in the Due Diligence period of the project. OED worked with Community Development on the Project Towers project. The Developer proposed to build homes TBD TBD on the 25+/- acres of City-owned property in the Oxmoor area.

Energy company looking to build on 80 acres at the Ensley Works, creating 55 new jobs in year Statutory abatements one and 270 jobs by the end of year 3. before the IDB will Project Zeus Environmental concerns voiced by US Steel 70 be requested as the (property owner) have temporarily delayed the only incentive. project.

Presently located off Lakeshore Parkway, the Relocation of IRS and SBA offices will relocate to the CBD over the next year. TBD None

Company is located on Blue Lake Drive in B’ham and considering expansion to Perimeter Park 90 retained, growing to RX Benefits IDB abatements. South. Other non-City sites also being considered. 200.

Legal department finalizing development agreement Salvation Army for the sale of Sloss School TBD Properties

Located in the former V Richards, the project includes a restaurant, bar and catering operation. Design Review approval obtained. Incentive request None requested as Shindigs 50 made; Mayor responded; business owner has of this report. asked for further consideration.

Company out of Texas is partnering with the Alabama Department of Transportation to provide Southland Holdings construction support for the interstate projects in 400 IDB abatements the City.

Company purchased by Nucor Steel. Status of Assistance with Southland Tube planned expansion TBD 0 street vacation fee requested. New owner of vacant warehouse on 2nd Avenue Theodore Building South will open an events center and arts studio. 10 None

Development Agreement approved by Council. Site Incentives based on Topgolf prep to begin this month. 400 sharing of future sales tax revenues. Recent renewed interest in redeveloping the site is being shown by a Maryland development company. Conversations are in the very early stages. Trinity Montclair TBD TBD Maryland developers visited site on June 21 and are likely to make an offer to purchase.

The Corporate Headquarters and sales offices of

this Alabama winery have relocated to 2 North Vineyard Vines Winery Headquarters 25 None Twentieth.

Project encompasses a half block anchored by the Up to $480,000 former Waite’s Bakery on 7th Avenue South. based on actual Waites Project is mixed-use residential-retail with a parking 120 sales tax revenue deck. Ribbon cutting held June 28. over 5 years. .

The Wildwood shopping complex is in the early stages of redevelopment by a Nashville based Wildwood Redevelopment 300 TBD developer. Incentive request has been made and a recommendation to Council is in process.

New Economic Development Projects June 2017 JOBS CREATED AND/OR CITY NAME DESCRIPTION RETAINED INCENTIVES Industrial manufacturer expected to locate in the IDB only. Valley East Industrial Park. IDB abatements to be Zekelman Industries 25 considered on June 29.

Highlighted New Projects (69) and Jobs (5,622)

Existing Economic Development Projects As of June 2017 Highlighted Existing Projects (10) and Potential Job Creation (1,216) JOBS CREATED AND/OR CITY NAME DESCRIPTION RETAINED INCENTIVES OED is working with Tim Clay on finalizing the purchase of the former 5 Points West Library. Closing is pending 5 Points West Developers, LLC 42+/- New Jobs TBD the completion of the Due Diligence process.

Incentives for retail Installation of infrastructure underway. Infrastructure locating at the site development was approved by Council and ground are available and will CrossPlex Development TBD breaking was held on January 11th. be developed in detail as site selection continues. Developer looking at mixed-use retail and is progressing NONE Downtown 20th Street Post Office very well toward completion. TBD REQUESTED AT Redevelopment THIS TIME Project is in early construction phases as a part of the Fairfield Inn Downtown development of the Empire Hotel/Fairfield development 130 DRA abatements

A Dothan developer is building a dual function, 2 hotel Hilton Brand Hotels complex on 3rd Avenue South. Construction is underway. 140 TBD

Application has been approved by ALDOT to improve Engineering and Sterlite Drive and Meadow Craft Road as a result of the Kamtek-related Industrial Access Design costs. most recent Kamtek expansions. County is sharing in the 354 new Approximately Road and Bridge Grant application. Project is in PEP in the design phase. $150,000.

Developer is doing its due diligence with anchor tenant 9N9 PROJECT prior to closing on the land sale. Closing on the property Miller Holding Company 150 (TBD) is expected on or before September 2017.

Meeting scheduled for 7/6/17 to discuss update of Retained 200 Project P&S expansion TBD Proposed 200 New

$500,000 in The COB and REV Birmingham are working with the infrastructure for the The Empire Building developer to convert the unoccupied Empire Building to a TBD entire 4 corners Marriott Hotel which will house a Chris Hastings restaurant. being developed. The former hospital, now empty following the relocation of patients to Grandview Medical Center on Highway 280 is Trinity Medical Center being marketed by Graham & Company and the City for TBD TBD future corporate headquarters, offices, labs, call centers or other potential uses.

Birmingham Business Development Loan Program Portfolio Status As June 2017 Total Loan Pool Dollars: $ 5,000,000 Total Active Loans: 0 Total Committed Funds: $ 0 Total Jobs Created/Retained: 1102 Total Funds Remaining: $ 5,000,000 The City of Birmingham administers the Birmingham Business Development Loan Program which offers “Bank Guaranteed” loans at a minimum amount of $100K and up to $1M at “Current Market Rates” for a term of up to 24 months. These loans must be “guaranteed” by a direct pay, irrevocable letter of credit from a bank. The loans executed year-to-date under this program are listed in the table below to reflect the diverse types of commercial projects being done utilizing these funds in the various commercial districts throughout the City of Birmingham. PROJECT NAME LOAN AMOUNT JOBS CREATED PROJECT NARRATIVE 2ND @ 22ND PARTNERS, LLC FORMER SCREENING ROOM BLDG. NEW DOWNTOWN CORPORATE $1,000,000 PAID OFF 40 HEADQUARTERS OF THE RED CROSS

LOAN PAID: JAN 2010 RBC BANK DIVISION AVENUE LLP D/B/A ONE STOP ENVIRONMENTAL NEW CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS FOR ONE $628,976 PAID OFF 50 STOP ENVIRONMENTAL IN WOODLAWN

LOAN PAID: FEB 2011 RED MOUNTAIN BANK/NBC BUTLER’S EXECUTIVE GROOMING LOUNGE UPSCALE BARBERING SALON FOR $325,000 PAID OFF 7 CORPORATE EXECUTIVES AND BUSINESS

PROFESSIONALS LOAN PAID: MAR 2011 REGIONS BANK CITY CENTER COMPANY, LLC FORMER PIZIZ BUILDING 811 COMBINED NEW AND RETAINED REDEVELOPMENT OF FORMER PIZITZ $1,000,000 PAID OFF JOBS, PLUS TEMPORARY BUILDING DOWNTOWN CONSTRUCTION JOBS LOAN PAID: JUL 2010 OAKWORTH CAPITAL TWIN OAKS INVESTMENT GROUP D/B/A NAIA CORPORATION REDEVELOPMENT OF THE HISTORIC 32ND $414,000 PAID OFF 50 STREET BAPTIST CHURCH IN AVONDALE

LOAN PAID: JUL 2011 FIRST COMMERCIAL BANK CRD-HOTEL 1 D/B/A HYATT PLACE NOW KNOWN AS SPRINGHILL SUITES PAID OFF NEW HYATT PLACE HOTEL IN DOWNTOWN 41 $600,000 CITY CENTER

LOAN PAID: JUN 2010 SERVIS FIRST BANK JOHNSON PROPERTIES, LLC D/B/A DOG DAYS OF BIRMINGHAM PAID OFF REDEVELOPMENT OF THE FORMER HUNTER $335,000 5 FURNITURE STORE AS A DOGGIE DAY CARE CENTER LOAN PAID: APRIL 2012 REGIONS BANK RFS, LLC D/B/A DUNKIN DONUTS NEW DUNKIN DONUTS FRANCHISE LOCATED $325,000 PAID OFF 50 ON 6TH AVENUE SOUTH

LOAN PAID: OCT. 2012 FIRST COMMERCIAL BANK RAILROAD SQUARE, LLC FORMER NABISCO BUILDING REDEVELOPMENT OF THE FORMER PAID OFF $1,000,000 14 NATIONAL BISCUIT COMPANY ON

SOUTHSIDE NEAR RAILROAD PARK LOAN PAID: MAR 2013 ALIANT BANK MSB-WU PROPERTIES, LLC SOCIAL VENTURE REDEVELOPMENT OF A COMMERCIAL $1,000,000 PAID OFF 6 WAREHOUSE FOR A SOCIAL/ARTS INCUBATOR IN THE WOODLAWN COMMUNITY MATURING: OCT. 2014 FIRST COMMERCIAL BANK The Denechaud House, LLC Redevelopment of the historic Comer and $250,000 PAID OFF 6 Upshaw Law Firm Building on 3rd Avenue

North. MATURING: JUNE 2015 CADENCE BANK

Whitmire Building, LLC Mixed-use redevelopment project K-Lofts 4-8 New involving 4 lofts and two retail storefronts $550,000 PAID OFF on 3rd Avenue North Downtown

LOAN PAID: FEBRUARY 2015 SERVISFIRST BANK

1215 Parkside, LLC Tillman Levinson Annex Bldg. Have been notified regarding expiration 10 New $504,000 PAID OFF of loan May 13, 2016

LOAN PAID: MAY 2016 SERVISFIRST BANK Philips Taber, LLC $150,000 PAID OFF Fitness and Ballet Barre Style Studio in 4 New the Lakeview District. LOAN PAID: FEB 2016 SERVISFIRST BANK

New Business Licenses Issued

By District for May 2017 (June 2017 data will be available on the next ED Committee Report)

As part of the Mayor’s 9-N-9 Initiative the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development will provide in this monthly report, the number of New Business Licenses issued By-District in the City of Birmingham.

DISTRICT # Licenses Issued

Council District One 8 Council District Two 7 Council District Three 10

Council District Four 4

Council District Five 29 Council District Six 6 Council District Seven 8 Council District Eight 1

Council District Nine 2 Total New Business Licenses Issued 75

HUB Zone Businesses 49

Total Businesses located outside of City limits doing 94 business within City limits.

New Business Licenses Comparisons Data 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 District District District District District District District District District One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Eight Nine

May-16 May-17 Other Economic Development Initiatives As of June 2017

To review a copy of the Birmingham Comprehensive Plan visit: Comprehensive Plan http://www.birminghamcomprehensiveplan.com. The OED is a participant in the Implementation Team for the following Birmingham Comprehensive Plan Framework Plans: Eastern Area, Pratt City/Ensley, Titusville; West End; 5 Points West; and North Birmingham.

Birmingham FTZ

Marketing subzone and zone benefits to prospective manufacturing companies.

5 Points South Merchants Association: Next meeting: TBA. Merchants Meetings 5 Pts W Neighborhood Association: Addressed issue of community policing efforts, Street Merchants concerns proposed Business Plan for Association East Lake Merchants Association (ELMA): Next meeting: TBA Woodlawn Business Association (WBA): Next meeting: TBA. Ensley Merchants Association (EMA): Working with REV Meeting with the association to discuss plans for downtown Ensley: Next meeting: TBA African American Business Council (AABC): Next meeting: TBA. Forest Park/South Avondale Business Association: TBA. South Region’s Minority Business Council/Advisory Committee: Next Meeting TBA Birmingham Metro Chamber of Commerce: Next Meeting TBA

Identifying grant opportunities from economic development related agencies. In Grant Opportunities addition, Andrew Mayo has been an active participant on the Grants Office Task Force Initiative.

The Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (WIA) supersedes the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) and amends the Wagner-Peyser Act. WIA also contains the Adult Jefferson County Workforce Investment Board Education and Family Literacy Act (title II) and the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998 (title IV). WIA reforms federal job training programs and creates a new, comprehensive workforce investment system. The kickoff for the Jefferson County Workforce Investment Board has not taken place yet.

OED continues to “share” employment opportunities internally and with economic development partners.

Next Meeting: July, 2017 Region 4 Workforce Development Council

The Regional Workforce Councils were codified under Governor Riley in 2006. In 2015, re-alignment of the Regional Workforce Council by the Alabama State Legislature was formally established through ACT # 2015-450 as a means of using council and WIOA Board Resources more efficiently. The map of the new regions has been created and may be viewed at http://www.madeinalabama.com/2015/09/7- RWC-Map-wo-Clusters.jpg http://www.madeinalabama.com/divisions/workforce- development/alabama-workforce-council/region-4-3/

EB-5 BIRMINGHAM We anticipate that our EB5 application will be approved in 2017. In the meantime,

our intern Charles is pursuing a unique opportunity to create a joint film school in Birmingham and potentially with our Israeli Sister City through the EB-5 program.

Other Economic Development Initiatives As of June 2017 Sister Cities International AFGHANISTAN • On May 26th, we met with a representative from Heart, Afghanistan to

discuss the potential of adding it as our newest sister city. An exploratory committee is forming to investigate the efficacy of the relationship. CHINA • The Birmingham Sister Cities Commission was a sponsor of the 11th

Annual Chinese New Year Festival, which took place at Boutwell VINNYTSIA SISTER CITY VISIT TO Auditorium on Saturday, January 28. The event, which featured dancing, BIRMINGHAM JUNE 5-7, 2017 music, food, culture booths and a colorful stage show, was well attended. Several Sister City Commission members participated in the festival. • Penny Whiteside succeeded Stan Erdreich as chair of the committee. Committee plans include the review of current and past projects and discussion of future activities. CZECH • The beer exchange is progressing nicely. JAPAN • We sent a shipment of Quilts from our Quilters to Hitachi for the annual show. Ms. Roberson and the school project has done wonderful things, with a photo exchange! We had four members of the Birmingham Track Club run in the Maebashi run this year! We will host Tago-san and Mayor Yamamoto in July. We will also once again host a two week English camp for the Kita School in Hitachi The Japan Committee is looking for new members. Serhiy Morhunov, Mayor of Vinnytsia; Vladyslav Skalskyy, Deputy Mayor of Vinnytsia; Volodymyr Semeniuk, Director General of AGRANA Fruit Ukraine, representing sustainable UKRAINE business; Olha Rebyak, Development Director of AVIS LLC Enterprise and Igor Dobriansky- • Our Open World delegation was here April 28-May 6 and will delegates Founder/CEO of Sizecar from throughout Ukraine. The group emphasized NGOs and Government transparency. MAEBASHI RUN GHANA • Is working on finalizing a signing with Ashaiman and planning an adult trip for summer of 2017. We have 7 adults and youth going to Ghana this June! Also a youth exchange targeting young men will done this summer! ISRAEL • I have been working with Rosh Ha’Ayin and Vinnytsia to bring student athletes this summer to the Maccabi games at the end of July. We have been very successful and it looks like we will have over 20 people in these 2 delegations. We are working hard to add Liverpool, but have not had success on the other end yet. We have several athletes from Ukraine and RH who will be coming to the Games! Please check out and share the GoFundMe page https://www.gofundme.com/maccabi-athletes-from- sister-cities to help us raise the much-needed funds to bring these groups. They are planning to do volunteer in our Y camps while they are in Birmingham and we are open to other areas they can share about Sister City! We will also plan to use this opportunity to rebuild our school-

to-school relationships with these cities through the teacher chaperones OPEN WORLD UKRAINIAN DELEGATION bringing the athletes! If you have any other fundraising ideas please send them my way, tickets are expensive! • Israel/Jordan Joint project- Charles Coleman working with Phillips Academy has put together a July exchange to Jordan and Israel and we have 4 eight graders on board for the trip. He has set up orientations for the youth and parents and is in the process of raising funds to offset the cost to parents. JORDAN • Working with Sen. Shelby’s office on possible USAID and other contacts and possible youth exchange in the summer with Israel and Jordan for students form Phillips Academy. Updated Jordan report except for the attacks on the crusader castle in Karak but the Jordanian government is showing more determination to the help the city not be affected from the tourism point of view. The youth exchange is coming together. ISRAEL/JORDAN YOUTH TRIP • Charles Coleman our intrepid Fulbright Scholar, Commencement speaker and future Dartmouth student and John Mark Edwards will be leading a group of 4 middle school students in July to visit Al Karak and Rosh Ha’ayin! Below are photos from UAB’s spring 17 grad ceremony and the first orientation meeting for the summer exchange!

Other Economic Development Initiatives As of June 2017 SIGNING OF THE

SISTER CITIES AGREEMENT BETWEEN BIRMINGHAM AND KINGSTON

HUNGARY • Kali is working with Joe Longoria on a cultural exchange trip tp Székesfehérvár to participate in their music/culture festivals in August 2017. Szeke. is also sending athletes for the Maccabii Games this summer. • The Association for the Maintenance of War Memorials and Sites MISC. (hereinafter referred to as HáEmGo) and 16 member organizations, coordinated by the Krajczáros Foundation are organizing an International Virginia Beach will host 2017 Sister Cities International conference: July 13th - 15th Candle Lightening Action on 11 November 2017. We kindly ask everybody, who supports this initiative, to express their respect towards the soldiers who died for their country by lighting up a candle on 11 November at 11:11 am at their local memorial place, military cemetery, home, school. • We also have an inquiry about Hungarian football

ENGLAND • We expect a delegation in the fall and we will send the “Groovy” Vulcan this summer. Crystal our artist will paint our Lambanana as well.

ITALY • No Report

JAMAICA • We signed a Sister City Agreement with Kingston on Feb. 15, 2017!

SENEGAL

• Bettina is recruiting a new committee and Chair for 2018.

NORTHERN IRELAND • We hosted a group from Derry May 10-12. 2017.

Other Economic Development Initiatives As of June 2017

Youth Games is working on promoting Lacrosse in City Schools as part of our 2021 YOUTH GAMES World Games outreach! The following schools listed below have received soft Lacrosse sticks and are teaching Lacrosse.  Arrington Middle  Christian K-8

 Central Park  Green Acres Middle  Huffman Middle  Martha Gaskins

 Oxmoor Valley  South Hampton K-8  Tuggle  West End Academy

In addition, our 2017 US Youth Games is off to a fast start with nearly 1,000 student participating thus far. Several weeks ago we began with a volleyball clinic, followed by our bowling tournament on May 20th. On June 3rd, we had our US Youth Games Swimming meet and our basketball tourney is scheduled for June 14th – 15th. Next month, we will have our annual track competition at Birmingham Southern, which is scheduled for July 15th.

Economic Development Partners, Events & Opportunities As of June 2017 NAME DESCRIPTION

Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham The Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham (RPCGB) provides planning services, economic development services and multiple initiatives for six counties and 84 communities throughout central Alabama. For more information about the RPCGB visit our website at http://www.rpcgb.org

Birmingham Construction Industry Authority (BCIA) The Birmingham Construction Industry Authority (BCIA) is one of several voluntary programs that are collectively referred to as "The Birmingham Plan", a plan established in 1990 and designed to overcome the critical under-utilization of Minority and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (MBE/DBE) in the City of Birmingham’s economic growth.

For more information about other training classes visit http://www.bcia1.org

Birmingham Business Alliance Presents Birmingham Business Alliance BREC Drive New Business with Social Media and Email Marketing

Join investors of the BBA and members of the Gardendale, Homewood and Hoover Chambers of Commerce as we jointly present this informative seminar.

Tuesday, July 25, 2017 - 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Birmingham Business Alliance 505 20th Street, Suite 200 Birmingham, AL 35203

For more information visit the website at http://www.birminghambusinessalliance.com The Birmingham Business Resource Center Birmingham Business Resource Center (BBRC)

Since 1996, the BBRC has been a leading center for small business training, financing and technical assistance for small businesses. The BBRC remains committed to providing quality services for its clients, and addressing the needs of the business community.

For more information contact us by phone at (205)250-6380 or visit us on the web at www.mybbrc.biz

Innovation Depot Innovation Depot The epicenter for technology, startups and entrepreneurs in the Birmingham region. Innovation Depot gives entrepreneurs a competitive advantage in attracting customers, talent, mentors, press and funding to grow their business.

For more information visit our website at: https://innovationdepot.org

Urban Impact Urban Impact Inc. (UII) is a local place based economic development agency that advances asset building, economic opportunity and revitalization of the Historic 4th Avenue Business District and the Civil Rights District through support and services to assist individuals, businesses and developers.

For more information contact us by phone at (205) 328-1850 or visit us on the web at www.urbanimpactbirmingham.org

Economic Development Partners, Events & Opportunities As of June 2017 NAME DESCRIPTION

“Starting Your Business” workshop sponsored by the Mayor’s U.S Small Business Administration Partnership Office of Economic Development/ SCORE/SBA/Birmingham Public Library. The next seminar is scheduled for July 10, 2017. The seminar is free, but registration in advance is required. Please call Andrew Mayo in the City of Birmingham’s Office of Economic Development at (205) 254-2799, or email him at [email protected].

Birmingham Public Library/Office of Economic Development

“Let’s Put Our Business On the Map” “Let’s Put Our Business on the Map” sponsored by the Mayor’s www.gybo.com Office of Economic Development and the Birmingham Public Library. The next seminar is scheduled for July 20th and August 17th. If you are interested in attending please contact Mr. Andrew Mayo at 254-2799 or [email protected] to register.

Economic Development Workforce Development Initiatives June 2017 NAME DESCRIPTION

The Alabama Association of Nonprofits has posted several open positions from the Freshwater Land Trust (FLT). For more details on the job descriptions and qualifications log on to http://www.aansocial.org

The Office of Minority Business Enterprise administers a certification program to identify small, minority-owned and women-owned businesses capable of providing good and/or services to both the government and private sectors. Certification provides these firms with a “stamp of approval” affirming that they are a credible business entity, which is valid for two years. The office encourages DBE’s, MBE’s and WBE’s to register with the Alabama Department of Finance's Purchasing Division in order to receive bid solicitations. For more info log on to www.adeca.alabama.gov.

The Birmingham Division of the Alabama Career Center has a new location. 3216 – 4th Ave. South, Birmingham, Alabama 35222. The Center's telephone number (205-254-1300) will remain the same. For information regarding job opportunities visit our website at http://joblink.alabama.gov.

As a leading provider of diversity recruitment and OFCCP Compliance Services, America’s Job Exchange is committed to assisting professionals in acquiring gainful employment. Their website lists various positions from contractors who are actively looking for a diversity of candidates that will assist job seekers in finding suitable employment. Visit www.americasjobsexchange.com for more info.

The Birmingham Urban League offers programs and services in key areas that affect economic stability and supports initiatives that are aligned to the Opportunity Compact:

The Opportunity to Own, Comprehensive Housing Counseling Services The Opportunity to Earn, Workforce Development/Jobs The Opportunity to Thrive, Youth Services The Opportunity to Prosper, Financial Empowerment Movement For more info visit www.birminghamurbanleague.net.

The Personnel Board of Jefferson County has current job openings for various classifications listed on their website. In order to view a detailed description and apply to these openings you must access the website at www.jobsquest.org .

AIDT Offers Training Classes Alabama Industrial Development Training  Interview T.I.P.S.  Maritime Welding  Leadership Skills I & II

For additional information visit their website http://www.aidt.edu/classes or call (334) 280-4416.

Stay Connected with Minority Business Development Agency

http://www.mbda.gov/blog?page=1

NEWS RELEASE

PRESS OFFICE

Release Date: Contact: June 28, 2017 Tiffani S. Clements, (202) 401-0035 Release Number: Internet Address: 17-45 http://www.sba.gov/news

SBA LAUNCHES NEW HUBZONE MAPS AND PARTNERS WITH U.S. DIGITAL SERVICE TO STREAMLINE AND ENHANCE ONLINE SERVICES FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Small Business Administration announced today that it has launched a new Historically Underutilized Business Zones map (via Google Chrome) at www.sba.gov/hubzone-maps. The HUBZone map is the first step in the modernization effort of SBA’s federal contracting programs. SBA has partnered with the U.S. Digital Service to streamline and enhance online services for small businesses.

The new HUBZone map helps small businesses in urban and rural communities determine if they are eligible for participation in HUBZone’s program. It features the latest HUBZone designations, “Qualified Disaster Areas” and new features to improve usability and assist with HUBZone address assertions.

“We are excited about our partnership with the White House’s U.S. Digital Service and the improvements made to the HUBZone maps to modernize SBA’s contracting programs - making them more user-friendly, agile and nimble for the busy entrepreneurs that we support,” SBA Administrator Linda McMahon said. “This is one of many projects that we have worked on with the USDS team to leverage technology to support America’s small businesses.”

"The United States Digital Service is proud to work with the Small Business Administration to connect small businesses with opportunities through the certify.SBA.gov program," said Matt Cutts, Acting Administrator of the U.S. Digital Service. "Our team is excited about the launch of the improved HUBZone map. We're honored to work with the dedicated staff at SBA to continue to modernize the tools and services that support small businesses."

In March 2016, the SBA launched certify.SBA.gov–a modernized, web-based application to further streamline and improve the application and certification processes for small businesses and entrepreneurs seeking to do business with the federal government. Certify currently facilitates complete application and certification workflow for the Women Owned Small Business Program, including access to third party certification for women-owned small businesses. To help firms assess their eligibility for SBA contracting programs, Certify’ s “Am I Eligible?” tool helps small businesses determine if the certification programs are a good fit for their businesses through a series of questions. The site will eventually serve additional SBA certification programs, including 8(a) Business Development Program and the HUBZone Program.

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Design of Experiments (DOE) Training July 11‐13, 2017 Mercedes Benz Training Center‐Vance, AL July 18‐20, 2017 Southern Union State Community College‐Opelika, AL

Honoring Our Own

Andrew J. Mayo, M.U.R.P Economic Development Specialist Honored & Served as Panelist

Alabama State Black Chamber of Commerce 2017 Entrepreneurs & Innovators Conference Breaking Down Barriers June 22-23, 2017

If you are thinking of starting a business of your own, but don’t know where to begin, register now for this free seminar presented by SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives). SCORE representatives will provide an overview of the various aspects involved in planning, starting, and operating a business. The seminar is , but registration is required. Each seminar will cover the same topics, but those who are interested are welcome to attend more than one day.

To register, please contact Andy Mayo in the City of Birmingham’s Office of Economic Development at (205) 254-2774 or [email protected]

These seminars are sponsored by the Office of Economic Development, SCORE, and the Birmingham Public Library.

The mission of the BMBCC is to help empower, advance, and sustain our African Americans communities through entrepreneurship, education, and business development.

Tuesday, July 11 11:30AM - 1:00PM Alabama Power Corporate Office (downtown) Tasha McDonald Scott (www.tashamscott.com) is our Chamber Guest Speaker Tuesday July 11 and she will show you how to Catapult your business growth!

Tasha McDonald Scott

Network, enjoy lunch, and get tips to take your business to the next level!!! Register here: www.BirminghamMetroBcc.org/membership

Limited Tickets Available: Free for members / $15 for non-members Sign up today www.birminghammetrobcc.org/membership.html

The Southern Region Minority Supplier Development Council (SRMSDC) and its Sponsors are pleased to present the Southern Region Diverse Supplier Automotive Summit. This event is designed to connect businesses in the automotive industry with certified MBEs across the region. The Summit will feature seminars, SRMSDC Automotive Corporate Members, Tier 1 / Prime Suppliers, and Certified MBE Suppliers.

The Southern Region Diverse Supplier Automotive Summit will be held on Wednesday, July 26, 2017, at 8 a.m. at Regions Field located at 1401 1st Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35203. Parking will be available near the Stadium and any overflow via metered parking.

We’ve Moved

The Birmingham Division of the Alabama Career Center has a new home.

Please visit us at our new location 3216 – 4th Avenue South Birmingham, Alabama 35222 The Center's telephone number (205-254-1300) will remain the same.

For information regarding job opportunities visit our website at http://joblink.alabama.gov

Birmingham’s MAX Central Station is open, more sections coming soon June 21, 2017

One station to host them all – Birmingham’s MAX Central Station (the first of four) is here!

The station opened for operation at 4:30 a.m. on June 21st, providing hope for Birmingham transportation.

The massive $32 million transit project, started in 2014, combines four major avenues of transportation:  Amtrak  Max  Greyhound  Megabus

The idea behind the facility was sited by al.com to be that of revving up “ridership” within the city.

“This has been a long time coming and we’re so excited to have a facility that is reflective of the service we always strive to provide…” – Barbara Murdock, BJCTA Executive Director, said in a statement.

MAX Central Station and Facility details: Located on Morris Ave., it’s hard to miss the massive building resting between 17th and 19th street. With 300 parking spaces, for those traveling, and designated spots for the particular bus systems, riding in the Magic City has finally improved!

FYI, Megabus, Amtrak, and Greyhound terminals will be operational soon.

In perfect Birmingham, AL fashion, there will also be a cafe inside “Central Station”. Olivia’s Transit Cafe will open at the end of the month, supplying breakfast biscuits, salads, sandwiches, pizzas, soups, and a delicious meat & two vegetable special!

Finally, as we celebrate this major expansion for Birmingham, a ribbon cutting was scheduled for June 30th.

Birmingham Reinvestment Creates Major Impact

A recently announced $19 million expansion of America’s First Credit Union is the latest investment in the City Center. A new four-story tower will add 45,000 square feet to the existing campus on downtown’s western edge, adjacent to the newly- designated Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument site.

This project, which will add 90 jobs to the west side of downtown, was championed by Mayor William Bell and enhances the already robust employment opportunities in Birmingham's urban core.

With the recently announced National Monument designation for our Civil Rights district and the impact of the Innovation Depot in growing new businesses, the northwest side of downtown Birmingham is poised for growth. These catalysts, in addition to America's First's investment in the area, fuel momentum for redevelopment and investment toward I-65.

From concept to completion, large projects - downtown and in our neighborhood commercial districts - take months or even years to come to fruition. REV Birmingham's team enjoys working with the City of Birmingham and private investors on these complex projects, addressing components such as financial incentives (redevelopment agreements and historic tax credits), infrastructure improvements (sidewalks, lighting) and parking.

The CO.STARTERS Family is Growing!

A couple of weeks ago, 13 entrepreneurs, representing 11 businesses, became CO.STARTERS alumni! Congratulations!!

They join more than 100 previous graduates who, like them, endured months of meetings, mentoring, and market validation. Small businesses are the backbone of a strong economy and these recent graduates help form the foundation of a thriving and inclusive Birmingham. CO.STARTERS is an initiative of Create Birmingham on which we are proud to partner. Thanks to this cohort's facilitator, Mickey Millsap, to the numerous guest speakers, and to the community for supporting the work of these bold individuals and their businesses!

The next 10-week CO.STARTERS class kicks off September 11, 2017. If you're ready to start or improve your business and join a growing network of local entrepreneurs, CLICK HERE to learn more and submit your application. Looking to learn more about the most recent class as well as other graduates? CLICK HERE for a complete list of our CO.STARTERS cohorts.

Long-awaited downtown project to open next week

Jul 6, 2017, 9:28am CDT

One of downtown Birmingham's most long-awaited projects has its opening date.

The Elyton Hotel, which will bring the historic Empire Building back to life, plans to open July 12, according to AL.com.

The hotel is a 111-room luxury hotel with six suites, a 710- square-foot gym, and 4,000 square feet of meeting, social and special event space. The hotel's restaurant, The Yard, and rooftop bar, Moon Shine, will both open July 19.

As we previously reported, the hotel's name was changed from "The Empire Hotel" to "The Elyton Hotel" to honor an area town that predated Birmingham, as well as the Elyton Land Co., which helped develop the Magic City in the late 19th century.

The hotel is located in the historic Empire building on the corner of First Avenue North and 20th Street North. The 1909 building BOB FARLEY was purchased by Ascent Hospitality in 2015 after it had sat The Elyton Hotel is opening in the Empire building this month. vacant since 2009.

We’re Getting Ready For A Cool Summer Night…

The BBA Continues To Post

Some Awesome Accolades

About Birmingham!

Check out their website at www.birminghambusinessalliance.com