CentrAL INC! | Central Alabama Business Journal May/June 2025 | Page 66

TAYLOR SWIFT FANS VOLUNTEER AT THE HEART OF ALABAMA FOOD BANK
17 SPRINGS OFFICIALLY OPENS PHASE II OF NEW DEVELOPMENT
ACCS AND AAMA TO OFFER SCHOLARSHIPS FOR AUTOMOTIVE MANUFACTURING PROGRAMS
MONTGOMERY RECEIVES $ 420,000 IN FUNDING FOR LOCAL INITIATIVES
BARBERITOS OPENS A NEW LOCATION IN WETUMPKA

news to know

TAYLOR SWIFT FANS VOLUNTEER AT THE HEART OF ALABAMA FOOD BANK

A love for pop superstar Taylor Swift brought out volunteers with generous hearts to help those in need in the River Region this weekend. Inspired by her generous donations to food banks across the country, the Heart of Alabama Food Bank hosted a“ Serve in Style Volunteer Event” where volunteers got to dress up in their favorite Taylor Swift gear. The Swifties got the chance to sort and pack food donations, while creating memories filled with laughter, singing and dancing. The event was open to anyone ages 8 and up.

17 SPRINGS OFFICIALLY OPENS PHASE II OF NEW DEVELOPMENT

The highly anticipated 17 Springs development in Elmore County has officially opened Phase II of the project which is reportedly set to cost around $ 100 million. The project was announced almost five years ago with Phase I opening in August 2023. Phase II focuses on the Fields at 17 Springs which includes baseball fields, softball fields, a 5,500-capacity stadium and an event center.

ACCS AND AAMA TO OFFER SCHOLARSHIPS FOR AUTOMOTIVE MANUFACTURING PROGRAMS

The Alabama Community College System( ACCS) and the Alabama Automotive Manufacturers Association( AAMA) has continued their partnership to offer additional scholarships for residents interested in pursuing careers in the state’ s automotive manufacturing industry. Eligible programs include: Mechatronics, Advanced Manufacturing Technology, Automated Manufacturing Technology, Industrial Electronics Technology, Industrial Maintenance Technology, Manufacturing Technology, Machining / Machine, Tool / CNC, Automotive Service Technology, Robotic Welding Technology and Engineering Technology.

MONTGOMERY RECEIVES $ 420,000 IN FUNDING FOR LOCAL INITIATIVES

As part of the Bloomberg American Sustainable Communities Initiative( BASC), the City of Montgomery has successfully secured $ 420,000 in funding since November 2024. This initiative aims to foster low-carbon, resilient and economically thriving communities through strategic partnerships and community-driven projects. The funding has been allocated to various local organizations, with three organizations receiving $ 40,000 each to serve on the Partnership Table. These tables will act as local organizing hubs for the BASC initiative, ensuring that the work reflects the unique context of the community.

BARBERITOS OPENS A NEW LOCATION IN WETUMPKA

Barberitos, the beloved Southwestern grille known for its fresh, made-to-order burritos, tacos and flavorful ingredients, opened its newest location in Wetumpka with a grand opening on April 3. The restaurant, located at 5039 US-231, A 103, brings a much-needed fresh and healthy dining option to the community. The new Wetumpka location is owned and operated by local entrepreneurs and business partners who have a passion for bringing better-for-you dining options to the area.
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