Mississippi casinos reopening before Memorial Day weekend
The Mississippi Gaming Commission said Thursday that casinos in the state can start reopening May 21 — more than two months after the commission closed them because of the coronavirus pandemic. The reopening is allowed just before the Memorial Day weekend, which usually marks the beginning of the summer tourist season. – AP
Little Richard will rest for eternity in Alabama at Oakwood University
Rock n’ Roll icon Little Richard will be buried on the Oakwood University campus in Huntsville. Little Richard died on Saturday at the age of 87 after a battle with bone cancer. He’s known for hit songs like “Tutti Frutti” and “Good Golly Miss Molly.” The recording artist otherwise known as Richard Wayne Penniman is an alumnus of Oakwood University. – ABC3340
Jones: Farmers need more help in next stimulus package
Alabama farmers need to receive more financial assistance as Congress develops the nation’s next stimulus package tied to the coronavirus, U.S. Sen. Doug Jones said Wednesday. “We’ve spent a lot of time talking about agriculture. That’s been a big deal in the Wiregrass area,” the Democratic senator said during a video conference call with Wiregrass economic leaders. “I think the farmers are in the gravest danger, even more so than a lot of our small businesses right now.” – Dothan Eagle
Bayer Properties to redevelop Hardwick Steel Plant along Rotary Trail
Birmingham’s Bayer Properties has announced plans to purchase and redevelop a 110-year-old steel plant along Rotary Trail into a mixed-use office and restaurant hub. The Hardwick historically served as a fabricated and prefabricated steel processing plant. Bayer plans on expanding the structure’s existing 30,000 square feet of space to about 50,000 by adding additional floors, creating a location for dining and office space. – AL.com
Wind Creek Hospitality gives help in providing 250,000 meals
Alabama Food Bank Association today announced it received critical support from Wind Creek Hospitality to help provide 250,000 meals to Alabama families during the COVID-19 pandemic. This donation comes at a critical time for food banks in Alabama as they respond to a greater need during this unprecedented crisis. – Brewton Standard
Survey: Alabama businesses hope for a quick recovery after pandemic
Nearly half of Alabama businesses are anticipating an improved business climate in the next six months despite the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, a survey found. The survey conducted by AlabamaWorks! and the Alabama Workforce Council revealed Alabama businesses are struggling with laying off employees, a lack of market demand, disruptions in the supply chain and a fear of being forced to permanently close. – AL NewsCenter
East Alabama colleges and universities plan return of in-person instruction
East Alabama colleges and universities are preparing to reopen their campuses with safety in mind. This week, Jacksonville State University announced plans to reopen parts of the campus as early as next Monday. The goal is to return to in-person instruction for the fall semester. Gadsden State Community College also hopes to return to in-person classes. – ABC3340
