Ivey announces end of pandemic unemployment program participation
Gov. Kay Ivey says Alabama will end its participation in federally funded pandemic unemployment compensation programs effective June 19. This includes the $300 weekly additional unemployment compensation and providing benefits for those who would not usually qualify for benefits. – Governor’s office
Jo-Ann planning $7.7 million expansion in Opelika
Jo-Ann Stores is planning an expansion to its distribution complex in Opelika, investing $7.7 million to enlarge its current warehouse and creating 30 jobs over the next three years. The company opened its 700,000-square-foot, $45 million distribution center in 2006 and currently employs 285 people.  – Area Development
Gulf Distributing moving its Birmingham operations
Gulf Distributing, which is based in Mobile, is planning to move its Birmingham facilities in 2022. Its current facility is on Messer Airport Highway, but the beverage distribution company plans to relocate to the Jefferson Metropolitan Park in McCalla. – Patch
Ivey awards 36 broadband grants
Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded 36 grants worth just under $17 million to provide broadband services in primarily rural and underserved areas of Alabama. The number of grants to multiple broadband providers is the largest amount and number awarded so far from the Alabama Broadband Accessibility Fund created in 2018. – Fox 10
