GOOD NEWS: Forestry and Paper Products is one of the state of Alabama’s dominant industries. Alabama has the second largest timberland base in the United States and is ranked Number 7 for lumber production.
What a blessing for Westervelt Co. to increase its presence in Alabama once again with a new wood products manufacturing facility in rural Clarke County. The company has been in our state for 134 years, a presence that highlights Westervelt’s important role as Alabama continues to lead in the Forestry Products industry.

Read more here in Alabama Political Reporter: 
http://www.alreporter.com/2018/11/28/westervelt-company-set-to-expand-in-clarke-county/

Thank you, Huntsville Police Department, for hosting a Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events class this evening. The program provided attendees with methods of how to survive an active shooter event. 

Hopefully we will never have to use these techniques, but here they are: [A.D.D. - Avoid the shooter (get as far away as possible - get out); if you cannot avoid, then Deny the shooter access to your area (locking/barricading doors, etc.); if all else fails - Defend your right to live - team with others to knock down and restrain the shooter.] #Our67 ​

GOOD NEWS: Much has progressed with site prep since we sat in Montgomery for the official unveiling of the Mazda Toyota joint venture manufacturing plant ten months ago. Folks are excited about the 4,000 job opportunities that await with global companies that consistently invest in their workforce and communities. 

Read more here: http://www.alreporter.com/2018/11/19/mazda-toyota-auto-plant-breaks-ground-in-limestone-county/

[Aerial image credit - SellersPhoto​]

GOOD NEWS: Site Selection Magazine is a leading, respected publication in our industry. For the third consecutive year, Alabama has earned placement in the Top Ten for both the Business Climate and Site Selection analysis categories of the survey, which is a testament to teamwork. The public and private sector consistently collaborate and thus create an environment conducive for business. Companies then are able to create jobs that enable Alabamians to earn a good living that they can be proud of. We all benefit from Alabama working again.

More here: http://www.alreporter.com/2018/11/12/site-selection-magazine-rates-alabama-8-in-business-climate/?fbclid=IwAR3ZSXi7NDYs75kR9YlLESxnfWv03FLoaYq24yWAXIlSeCc1zrSfkzgfsFk

It is difficult to put into words how appreciative we are of officers who risk their lives every day on behalf of humanity. Thank you to all, living and passed, for your service.
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This afternoon Huntsville Police Department unveiled a memorial brick in memory of Officer Keith Earle. A heartfelt way to honor a fallen hero –

​Thank you to the Eastern Area Mayor’s Association for the opportunity to speak about Economic Development: Principles and Practice. We shared ideas on how to build our communities and our state. It was nice to meet with such a dedicated group of public servants. #Our67 #teamwork

GOOD NEWS: The partnership with Hilton Hotels and Valor Hospitality will establish a world-class environment that guests can count on, which should generate repeat visits to a beautiful area of our state and a tremendous economic boost for the local economy and Alabama.
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On a more sentimental note, Gulf State Park is part of a tradition many of us grew up with. Now that The Lodge is up and running again, new generations will be able to create memories similar to the ones we all hold dear. Thank you to all who collaborated to bring this project to fruition.

More here - Alabama Political Reporter article: 
http://www.alreporter.com/2018/11/12/the-lodge-at-gulf-state-park-opens-on-schedule/?fbclid=IwAR1vTj6Iw01MBU7Was1vnbIPU1ctssxS5CMlYW7cAaw_clSBeu44P6TSDaI

The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.

1 Thessalonians 5:24
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Thank you, veterans, for your courage, sacrifices, and service. Our hearts are forever indebted to you.