Completed Projects
2009 | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004
The ALA-TOM RC&D Council completed 35 projects in 2009, at a total cost of $1,375,025.
Butterflies for the Black Belt #515 – This project consisted of two parts. The Educational Field Days and the design of Butterfly Gardens were held and designed for the Middle school aged students of Wilcox County. The planted butterfly gardens are maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers. The ALA-TOM RC&D Council provided $6,885 from Extension Educational funds, which were matched $14,972 in local funds and in-kind service, for a total project valued at $21,857.
Monroeville Outdoor Classroom Phase II #526 – The Council provided a $5,292 Extension Educational grant to the Monroe County Extension Office for the Monroeville Intermediate School. This project allowed the school to safely make raised vegetables beds to help increase their knowledge of vegetable production and support or help reinforce science and math. The local organization provided $5,300 in matching funds for a total project of $10,592.
Water Resource Management Project # 548 – The Council provided a $10,000 grant to the Black Belt Research and Extension Center for research the proper use of tile drainage in relation to the producers of the black belt area. The partnership of the Dallas County Soil Conservation District, Black Belt Research & Extension Center, Auburn University, Alabama A&M, Tuskegee University thru the Alabama Land Grant Alliance provided over $21,590 in matching funds totaling $31,590.
“Auntie Litter” Program #540 – This project helped educate the students of the Choctaw County Schools about the importance of not Littering through a trained educator by the name of “Auntie Litter” The council provided a grant in the amount of $1,500 for this live anti-litter presentation. The Partnership of ALA-TOM, Choctaw County School Systems, and Choctaw County Extension provided approximately $5,255 in matching funds for a total project of $6,755.
Clarke County HIPPY Phase II #534 – HIPPY stands for Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters. It is a national program which helps to get youngsters ready to go to school and it is in its second phase in Clarke County. The Council helped this program with a grant for $3,000. This program uses parent educators to train the parents to teach kids fundamental skills. Matching grants and in-kind assistance brought the total program expense to $230,457.
Monroe County Forestry Continuing Education Project #542 – The Council provided a grant for $3,740 to help provide equipment for public education concerning forestry related activities. There were several partners in this project. They are as follows: Monroe County Forestry Committee, Alabama Forestry Commission, USDA/Rural Development, USDA/ Natural Resource and Conservation Service, USDA/Farm Service Agency, Alabama Cooperative Extension Service, and the Alabama Department of Fish and Game. There was matching funds for $21,087.69. The total project included over 60 instructors for a period of a week, during the FAWN (Forestry Awareness Week Now) Program for the schools in Monroe County. This project reached over 750 people for a total project amount of $24,828.
Staples Bridge Canoe Access (Sepulga River) #485 – The Council awarded a$8,700 General Fund grant to the Conecuh County Commission to Construct a concrete boat ramp to provide good river access for small boats and canoes. There was $18,197 in matching funds for the project.
Radford Bridge Canoe Access (Cahaba River) #442 – The Council in conjunction with the Perry County Engineering team coordinated much of the work and made significant contributions to the design and to the construction of the ramp. The Council provided a $2,000 grant for the canoe ramp, which was matched by Perry County Commission for the total cost of $42,488.
Pineywoods Birding Trail #469 – $5,000 in grant funds from the Council was provided to the Southwest Alabama Regional Tourism & Film Office to establish a birding trail for the southwest region of Alabama connecting the Northern and the Gulf Coast Birding Trail. Matching funds of $126,500 was provided by Alabama Power, University of Alabama Center for Economic Development, and the Southwest Alabama Regional Tourism & Film Office.
Gees Bend Quilt Mural Trail #506 – The Southwest Alabama Regional Tourism and Film Office were awarded a grant for $13,500 by the Council to construct a trail of the Gees Bend Quilts in Boykin to give visitors to the area something to see. Large paintings of the 10 stamps that are in the public domain were used to make the murals. The University Of Alabama Center for Economic Development and Southwest Alabama Regional Tourism and Film Office partnered with the Council to match this grant with $25,000 making the total project $38,500.
Heritage Tourism and Eco-Tourism Education/Development Project #535 – This project was developed to enlighten and educate the Perry County citizens and the public of the wealth of history, heritage and environmental resources that are available in their area. The council provided an education grant to Perry County Chamber of Commerce for $5,175. The Partnership of the City of Marion, University of Alabama, Perry County Chamber of Commerce and Vista provided $9,770 in matching funds, making the total project $14,945.
Grove Hill Pocket Park #474 – The Council provided grant to the Town of Grove Hill in the amount of $5,000 to help provide the citizens an open air (green space) non-smoking area to use during court sessions or as a place to enjoy lunch. The Town of Grove Hill provided $7,240 in matching funds. The total project was estimated to be approximately $12,240.
Alabama Scenic River Trail (ASRT) #499 – The Council partnered with several other Councils in Alabama to help promote the 365 miles of scenic water ways along the Alabama River. The Council awarded a grant in the amount of $4,925 to help with signs, brochures, guidebooks and other forms of communication to encourage tourism and recreation for the Alabama Scenic River Trail. This project helped to create one full time and 1 part-time job. The partnerships formed help raise over $47,160 in matching funds for this project bringing the total of this project to $52,085.
Outreach to Limited Resource Farmers/Sustainable Agriculture Program -#467 – The Council continued its contracted with the Alabama State Office of the Natural Resources Conservation Service to conduct a program to increase awareness and accessibility of NRCS conservation programs to limited resource/minority/small scale farmers throughout the state. The Council sub-contracted with seven community based, grass root organizations to deliver the program. About 1,694 farmers were reached and 43 workshops conducted. The project was valued at $23,500.
Perry County Farmers Market #501 – The Perry County Commission owns the Farmers Market. The Council awarded the County a $5,700 grant, which was matched by the County Commission in the amount of $5,700 for a total project cost of $11,400.
Arts, Culture, and Heritage Education Program #503 – The Council partnered with Alabama Tombigbee Region and Black Belt Treasures to promote tourism as an economic medium. The Council provided a grant in the amount of $5,000 and it was matched with in-kind for a total project of $24,888.
Excel Skating Park Phase I # 555 – The Town of Excel made an addition to the Murphy Park in the form of a skating park for the youth. The council awarded a grant to the town for $7,500. The town matched the grant and the total project was valued at $15,000.
Black Belt Research & Extension Center Ag Activities Building #538 – The Council provided assistance to the Black Belt Research and Extension Center to provide a facility that could be utilized by the Black Belt area to host educational activities for the area cattlemen, farmers and youth groups. A $50,000 Community Development Grant from the Alabama Association of RC&D Councils was secured for the project, which was matched by the Black Belt Research and Extension Center in the amount of $52,112, for a total project value of $102,112.
6 Hurricane Ivan Tree Replacement Grants #440, 449, 450, 451, 452, & 483 – The Council and the Community Forester in cooperation with Auburn Extension Service help attain and facilitate grants in the amount of $64,821 for the cities of Excel, Evergreen, Jackson, Monroeville and Pine Hill to replant trees that had been lost after the hurricanes. The cities matched the grant with $ 44,177 in donated or in-kind services. There were approximately 563 trees planted in the above named cities.
City of Selma Tree Assessment and Remediation #453 – The Councils Community Forester Program wrote and facilitated a grant for the City of Selma for tree assessment and remediation. The total grant allowed for 1649 trees to be assessed and 378 trees to be pruned. The total funding of this grant (including match) was $62,514.56.
City of Monroeville Tree Assessment and Remediation #633 – The Councils Community Forester Program wrote and facilitated a grant for the City of Monroeville for tree assessment and remediation. The total grant allowed for 73 trees to be pruned. The total funding of this grant (including match) was $28,845.
Intergenerational Oral History Educational Project #528– The Council provided an educational grant for $4,000 to help collect oral histories of farm life in Wilcox County in the 1800-1905 eras. It was collected on digital recordings that were translated into CDs and written transcripts. This information was generated for the use in the Gees Bend Ferry Terminal as interpretive materials. The grant was matched by the Southwest Regional Tourism and Film Office and by the University of Alabama Center for Economic Development in the amount of $13,700 making the total project $17,700.
Black Belt Treasures Arts Education Series (Art Alive) #523 – The Council provided an education grant in the amount of $9,695 to help promote Black Belt Treasures. Many classes were held at the Black Belt Treasures facility in order to promote the local economy. The partnership of the Council, Black Belt Treasures, University of Alabama, and the University of West Alabama provided over $13,520 in match making this project total $23,215.
Sardis After-School Tutorial/Summer Enrichment Program – Phase II #527 – A group of seven churches in the Sardis area of Dallas County formed an organization to assist the youth and senior citizens in their community. The Council provided the organization a second phase grant in the amount of $5,000 in Extension Education grant to provide after school tutoring and homework help, and to do a seven week summer program to maintain and improve academic skills. About 30 students participated after school, with over 125 in the summer program. Matching funds amounted to $11,106, for a total project cost of $16,106.
The Innovation Centre Entrepreneurial Training #528 – The Council provided a $12,000 grant which was matched by $173,405 in grants from local sources to help develop a small business incubator and an entrepreneurial resource center. The $185,405 project helped better the capabilities of the Center help surrounding small businesses.
Washington County Public Library Adult Computer Education Classes #531 – A $4,000 grant was provided to the library to conduct basic computer classes that were free of charge to the public. Matching funds and in-kind services brought the total project value to $11,200.
Marion-Perry County Library Literacy Project –Phase I #536– The Council awarded the Marion-Perry County Library a $5,000 grant to equip the library with assistant coordinators for Literacy. There were 57 children and adult participants in the Literacy program. The total of the project funds was $10,693.77.
Wellness, A Choice for Healthy Living #539 – The Council provided a $5,000 grant, which was matched by $5,110 from local sources to help a community understand and stay healthy. The classes that were held focused on improving health through healthful changes in nutrition, physical activities and behavior. The total of this project was $10,110.
Sowing Seeds of Hope Job Training Center Job Development Program #541 - The Council helped the Sowing Seeds of Hope Organization with a $10,000 grant to provide supplies to a job development center for the local citizens of Perry County. This grant helped over 65 minorities with a total project of $12,028.
Community Outreach and Education for Black Belt Residents #546 - The Alabama Rural Heritage Center was awarded a $20,385 grant to provide diverse workshops and seminars designed to provide enrichment and education for the people of rural west Alabama.
Wilcox Central Dual “E” College Prep Program #552 – The Council awarded Wilcox Central High School a grant in the amount of $10,000. The project allowed students to enroll in college prep classes during their Junior and Senior years of high school. The project amount is valued at $15,408.
Alabama Power Tree Funding Grant # 553 – The Community Forester helped three municipalities with projects to receive trees. The award was $2,100 for the trees and local labor helped to install the trees in the cities. The combined project is valued at $6,353.
Hurricane Katrina Tree Replacement Project #613 – The Community Forester helped the city of Thomasville, Chatom, Grove Hill, Jackson, and Town of Thomaston with grants to receive trees from the disaster created by Hurricane Katrina. The project was awarded $72,279 in Federal assistance. The cities provided the labor to plant the trees which is match in the amount of $13,992 making the total project valued at $86,271.
Monroe County Heritage Museum Education Outreach Program #556 – This project helped educate the students from Clarke, Choctaw, Conecuh, Butler, Baldwin, Escambia, Monroe and Wilcox Counties about the earlier lifestyles of the Native Americans on the Alabama River. The Council provided an award of $9,000.
Preparing Washington County Students for the 21st Century Workplace #570 – This project was a Washington County Career Fair day in which approximately 500 students attended in grades 11th and 12th from five schools in the county. The Council awarded $1,293 and it was matched by several local sources to make the total project value $7,679.
PROJECTS COMPLETED IN 2008
The ALA-TOM RC&D Council completed 29 projects in 2008, at a total cost of $1,023,621.
Monroeville Middle School and Monroe Intermediate School Outdoor Classrooms -# 477 – Outdoor classrooms were built at both schools to provide an educational setting to teach students about gardening while reinforcing the science and math state curriculum. The ALA-TOM RC&D Council provided $8,370 from Extension Educational funds, which were matched with $10,074 in local funds and in-kind service, for a total project valued at $18,444.
Alberta Community Educational Outreach Program- # 476 – The Council provided a $6,000 Extension Educational grant to the Faith Fellowship Community Outreach Organization to conduct GED Prep classes, after school tutoring, and a summer enrichment program for 60 students. The local organization provided $12,112 in matching funds for a total project of $18,112.
West Wilcox Park – Phase 2 -# 430 – The Council provided a $3,500 grant to the park for drainage improvements and to repair hurricane damage. The Park Board provided $5,119 in matching funds totaling $8,619.
Valley Grande Public Service Building -# 421 – The newly incorporated city of Valley Grande in Dallas County needed a building for police fire and emergency services. The Council provided a $5,000 grant towards the construction of the $100,000 building.
Clarke County HIPPY- 2007- #496 – HIPPY stands for Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters. It is a national program which helps to get youngsters ready to go to school. The program was started in Clarke County with the assistance of a $5,000 grant from the Council, and reached 110 parents and children. It uses parent educators to train the parents to teach kids fundamental skills. Matching grants and in-kind assistance brought the total program expense to $55,367.
Flatwood Community Center Improvement – Phase 2 - #519 – The Flatwood Community Development Organization completed a second phase of improvements to their park and community center with a $10,000 grant from the Council. Improvements included the addition of a pavilion, restroom, and storage area. Matching funds included 21 volunteers working 750 hours valued at $14,078, $6,257 in equipment usage, $3,083 in materials from the Marengo County Commission, and $5,210 in cash, bringing the total cost of the project to $38,628.
Sumter/Marengo Water Festival 2008 -# 509 – The Council awarded a$1,000 Extension Education grant to the Sumter County Soil and Water Conservation District to conduct a field day to teach students and teachers in the two counties about groundwater and other natural resources. There was $12,635 in matching funds for the project.
Clarke County Wireless Internet Feasibility Study -#498 – The Clarke County Development Foundation sponsored a feasibility study to determine if broadband wireless internet services could be provided throughout the county. He study was completed and reported that it was feasible, with the Foundation moving ahead to try to implement the program. The Council provided a $5,000 grant for the study, which was matched by local governments and private business and industry for the total cost of $43,000.
Wilcox Central High School Dual Enrollment Program 2007 - #487 – $5,000 in grant funds from Alabama RC&D Community Development Program was provided to the High School to assist 25 students with expenses incurred while being in the Dual Enrollment Program which allowed them to receive college credits while in high school. Matching funds of $5,000 was provided by the school.
Wilcox Central High School Dual Enrollment Program 2008 - # 521 – The second phase of assistance to the school allowed 32 students to take classes for college credit while still in high school. Funding of $10,000 from Alabama RC&D Community Development grants, and a $5,000 grant from the Council’s Extension Education funds was provided. $30,100 in matching funds from volunteer and teachers was provided, totaling $45,100.
Dallas County Junior Master Gardeners Program -#445 – The Dallas County Office of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System conducted a program to introduce youngsters to gardening and elementary botany in four schools and a youth group home. About 273 students participated, learning about gardening, healthy eating, leadership, and using plants to bring about pride in their school. The Council provided a $4,000 Extension Education grant, which was matched by local personnel valued at $5,100, for a total project cost of $9,100.
Excel Walking Trail -# 417 – The Council provided grant writing assistance for the Town of Excel for a successful Recreational Trails Program grant in the amount of $43,240. The town constructed a 3,465 ft. long asphalt walking trail at Murphy Park. Matching funds and services were provided bring the total value of the project to $54,050.
Fulton Walking Trail -#486 – The Council assisted the Town of Fulton with a successful Recreational Trails Program grant in the amount of $30,000. A 1,425 ft. long asphalt walking trail was constructed with the assistance of the Clarke County Commission, for a total project valued at $36,000.
Outreach to Limited Resource Farmers/Sustainable Agriculture Program -#467 – The Council contracted with the Alabama State Office of the Natural Resources Conservation Service to conduct a program to increase awareness and accessibility of NRCS conservation programs to limited resource/minority/small scale farmers throughout the state. The Council sub-contracted with seven community based, grass root organizations to deliver the program. About 2,460 farmers were reached and 95 workshops conducted. The project was valued at $33,500.
Excel Playground Project -#512 – The Town of Excel in Monroe County installed children’s playground equipment at Murphy Park. The Council awarded the town an $11,000 grant, which was matched by the town in the amount of $11,008 for a total project cost of $22,008.
Plasticulture Program 2008- #520 – The Council continued its program to provide supplies for producers involved in plasticulture. The program also assisted in the implementation of EQIP plasticulture program in the state.
Hispanic Workshop -#457 – At the request of the Council, a workshop to assist local government officials and community leaders in understanding Hispanic culture and how to effectively communicate with Hispanic persons was held in conjunction with the University of Alabama and the Alabama-Tombigbee Regional Commission. The workshop had 32 attendees at a estimated cost of $1,750.
National Voting Rights Museum Enhancement -#508 – The Council provided assistance to the museum in Selma to recover and preserve exhibits, displays, and its physical structure. A $32,000 Community Development Grant from the Alabama Association of RC&D Councils was secured for the project, which was matched by the museum in the amount of $134,000, for a total project value of $166,000.
Pennington Playground Project -#513 – The Town of Pennington in Choctaw County requested assistance from the Council to prepare an ADECA Land and Water Conservation Fund grant. A $37,493 grant was received, and the town constructed the playground at its park. Matching funds in the amount of $37,493 were provided, for a total project cost of $74,986.
Thomasville High School Dual Enrollment -#479 – The High School partnered with Alabama Southern Community College to allow students to take college coursework and earn both college and high school credits. The Council provided a $5,000 grant from the Extension Education grant program, which was matched in the amount of $43,631, for a total of $48,631.
Hybart House Museum Improvements -#500 – The Monroe County Heritage Museums owns the Hybart House which is used for community and civic events and to display art and history from the county. The house was not heated or air conditioned which severely limited its use. The Council provided a $16,780 grant for the project, which was matched by $26,942 in cash and in-kind services, for a total project value of $43,722.
Gilmore Elementary School Environmental Education Program -#532 – The outdoor environmental education facilities at the school were in disrepair from hurricane damage. The Council assisted the Clarke County Soil and Water Conservation District in coordinating a program to repair the facilities and re-start the environmental education program by providing a $3,553 Extension Education grant. The matching funds totaled $7,195, for a total project cost of $10,748.
Melvin Community Park Pavilion -#511 – Assistance was provided to the Melvin Park Board in Choctaw County to develop a master plan for the park, and provide funds for a pavilion/restroom. A $10,000 grant was provided to the board, which was matched with $12,015, for a total project value of $22,015.
Tourism Technology Infrastructure Training Program -#470 – This project brought together all the persons and organizations involved in tourism in the 11 county Southwest Alabama region for training, networking, and coordination of activities. The Council provided a $11,500 Extension Education grant, which was matched by regional sources in the amount of $56,339, for a total project cost of $67,839.
Selmont After School Tutorial/Summer Enrichment Program -#491 – A group of seven churches in the Sardis area of Dallas County formed an organization to assist the youth and senior citizens in their community. The Council provided the organization a $5,000 Extension Education grant to provide after school tutoring and homework help, and to do a seven week summer program to maintain and improve academic skills. About 30 students participated after school, with over 125 in the summer program. Matching funds amounted to $7,775, for a total project cost of $12,775.
Jackson High School Beautification Project -#517 – A $1,000 grant was provided to the school for landscaping improvements around the campus. Matching funds and in-kind services brought the total project value to $16,700.
Black Belt Environmental Science and Arts Program -#490 – The Environmental Institute of Auburn University conducted eight field days for 210 seventh and eight grade students in Wilcox County. Emphasis was placed on hands-on environmental education in small groups resulting in a high level of interaction with instructors. A grant from the Council’s Extension Education funds in the amount of $6,971 was provided. Auburn University contributed $11,316 in matching funds; bringing the total project cost to $18,287.
Thomasville City Mural Project -#522 – The Council provided a $6,000 grant, which was matched by $15,000 in grants from local sources to paint a mural on a wall in the downtown business district. The $21,000 project provided a mural that depicts the railroad heritage of the city, along with other local scenes painted by an artist from Demopolis.
Projects and Accomplishments for 2007
The Council completed 12 projects in 2007 for a total cost of $279,050.00.
Plasticulture Program – 2007 – The ALA-TOM RC&D Council assisted in the implementation of EQIP plasticulture projects with about 41 limited resource farmers throughout the state by providing the needed materials and supplies and loans to farmers. This assistance enabled them to complete projects on their farms in a timelier manner.
On-Farm Energy Conservation Workshop – The Council, in cooperation with the Alabama Mountains, Rivers and Valleys RC&D Council, conducted training for on-farm energy conservation audits. A workshop for farmers on ways to conserve energy was also conducted in Monroe County, targeting poultry farms.
Exceptional Children Inc. Horticulture Training Program – The Council assisted ECI, a facility in Washington County that provides assistance to mentally challenged children and adults, and the Washington County Soil and Water Conservation District in establishing a greenhouse to train clients in the growing and selling of plants. The Council provided an $8,850 educational grant, which was matched with $40,151 from various sources
Toxey Walking Trail – The Council assisted the Town of Toxey in Choctaw County with the establishment of an asphalt walking trail at the town park. Assistance was provided in writing a successful $33,199 Recreational Trails Program grant to ADECA. The Council also provided a $12,840 grant from its State Funds. Other matching funds totaled $15,825, for a total project cost of $61,864.
Management Intensive Grazing for Limited Resource Farmers – The United Christian Community Association conducted demonstrations, workshops, and one-on-one technical assistance on “Management Intensive Grazing” systems to promote the utilization of native pastures and woodlands for limited resource farmers in Central Alabama. The Council provided a $7,300 Education grant, which was matched with $23,400 from various other sources.
Second Annual Antiques Symposium – The Council assisted the Coalition of Women Entrepreneurs, the Perry County Historical Society, and the Perry County Chamber of Commerce with a program to promote Perry County and the Black Belt region. The Council provided a $4,000 grant, which was matched by $9,664 in other funds.
Rickards Mill Repair – The Council provided a $5,000 grant to the Monroe County Heritage Museum to repair the turbine at Rickards Mill – a water powered grist mill. The mill is a “museum” and tourist site in Monroe County that grinds corn to demonstrate past milling methods and sells the meal to visitors. Matching funds amounted to $17,033.
Commercial Kitchen Training Program – The Council assisted the Alabama Rural Heritage Foundation in the training of low income citizens in value added product production in the center’s commercial kitchen. The Council provided a $3,000 educational grant, which was matched with $4,650 in other funds.
Craig Field Industrial Park Signage – The Council provided a $2,500 state grant to the Craig Field and Airport Industrial Authority for entrance signs at the industrial park. Matching funds in the amount of $49,318 were provided by others.
Reaching Beyond the Skies Academically 2007 – The Council provided a $5,000 educational grant to the Castleberry Community Development Center to conduct after school tutoring and a summer camp for area youth. Matching funds in the amount of $16,120 were provided by the center.
Limited Resource/Small Scale Farmers Outreach Program – The Council administered a $19,200 outreach grant from USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service to provide outreach and technical assistance to limited resource and small scale farmers. The Council sub-contracted with Tenn-Tom Community Development, Inc. to provide the service. Farmers were educated on NRCS programs and assistance was provided in making applications.
Alabama Tombigbee Tourism Initiative – The Council partnered with the Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission and the University of Alabama Center for Economic Development to establish a regional tourism program for economic development. The three organizations funded the hiring of a tourism director and received other funding for promotional activities. The program is now operational with funding secured from the State of Alabama for program operation.
PROJECTS and Accomplishments FOR 2006
Black Belt Treasures: A regional (18 counties) marketing effort for arts, crafts, literature and food products was created. A gallery to display and sell items, as well as an internet marketing site was established. Over 220 artisans are involved, returning more than $130,000 to them the first year. Visitors from 34 states and 5 foreign countries have visited the gallery. Arts educational events are also being conducted. This project received varied grants from different sources to total $253,135.
Shady Grove Walking Trail: The Council assisted the Choctaw County Commission in preparing a successful Recreational Trails Grant proposal to ADECA. A $9,700 grant was received to develop a trail in the Shady Grove, a rural African-American community. The Choctaw County Commission provided $27,196, for a total project cost of $38,896.
Plasticulture Implementation Program: The Council developed a plan and strategy to assist NRCS in implementing Plasticulture EQUIP payments, to help limited resource farmers purchase needed supplies. In addition, the Council made a bulk purchase of plasticulture supplies for re-sale to farmers. This is available statewide, but primarily aimed at producers in the southern portion of the state.
Collard Processing Project: The Council purchased a collard processing machine for use by Down South Foods. The owner of Down South Foods passed away, and the Council received proposals to use the machine to process collards purchased from farmers in the region. Use was granted to Jay Minter, and he expanded the operation and was awarded a contract by a major wholesale food supply company. He now purchases collards from farmers, processes them and delivers them to the food supply company. He also grows collards himself for the operation.
Essex School Based Community Health Program: The Council provided a $10,000 state education grant to the Friends of Essex School to complete a health center at the school for the students and area residents.
Reaching Beyond the Skies Academically: The Council assisted the Castleberry Community Development Center with a $7,500 state education grant to provide tutoring and life skill training for students, and basic computer classes for adults.
Tri-County After School Program: The Council provided the Tri-County Community Organization a $3,000 state education grant to conduct an after school tutoring program for students at Monroe Intermediate School in Monroe County. Students were helped with homework, as well as with standardized tests.
Archery in the Schools: Archery equipment was purchased to assist the Jackson Middle School Physical Education program. School attendance and student behavior improved because of added diversity to the PE program. The program also increased student interests in outdoor activities including bow hunting and hunter safety.
Wilcox Central High School Dual E Learning Program: The Wilcox Central High School, in cooperation with Wallace Community College-Selma conducted a program in which students can earn college credit while still in high school.
Lenox Community Center Repair: The Council assisted the Lenox Community Center with a $7,136 state grant to replace the roof on the building, with matching funds and labor for a total project cost $19,149.
Perry County Farmers Market: The Council obtained a grant from the Alabama Farmers Market Authority to construct a farmers market shed in Marion for local farmers to sell their fruits and vegetables.
Sumter / Marengo Water Festival-2005: The Council assisted the Sumter County Soil and Water Conservation District in co-sponsoring the 2005 Water Festival which brought in all fourth graders from Sumter and Marengo County Schools to a day long educational event to promote the conservation of water.
Washington County Public Library Adult Computer Classes: The council provided a $2,500 State Education grant to the Washington County Public Library to conduct adult basic computer classes for county residents.
Alberta GED Training Program: The Council awarded a $5,000 grant to the Faith Fellowship Community Outreach organization to conduct GED test preparation training and after school tutoring for the students in the Alberta (Wilcox and Dallas County) area.
CCARC Horticulture Training Program: The Council assisted the Clarke County Soil and Water Conservation District who coordinated with the Clarke County Association of Retarded Citizens for the establishment of a horticulture training program for their mental health consumers with a State Educational grant.
Toxey-Skinner Park Bridge Repair: The Council assisted the Town of Toxey with repairs to a pedestrian bridge in the Skinner Park that was damaged by Hurricane Ivan with a State appropriations grant.
Commercial Rabbit Demonstration Project: The Council assisted Jeanette Grayson with a SARE grant she received to do a demonstration project for Limited Resource/ Small Scale Farmers in the commercial production marketing of rabbits.
Grove Hill Public Library Adult Computer Classes: The Council provided an educational grant to the Grove Hill Public Library to conduct basic computer classes for adults.
Southwest Alabama Mental Health Horticulture Training Program: The Council provided an education grant to the Southwest Alabama Mental Health program to start a horticulture training program for its clients in Evergreen. The program grows plants in a greenhouse for sale to the public and to the city of Evergreen. Mentally challenged adults are being trained in horticulture to provide income, as well as marketable skills.
Commercial Blackberry Production Demonstration: The Council used $3,500 in State Appropriations to conduct On-Farm Demonstrations of commercial blackberry production on limited resource/minority farmers in the area
Clarke County Needs Assessment: The ALA-TOM RC&D Council provided the Clarke County Development Foundation a $5,000 grant to develop a comprehensive needs assessment for the county to create a data management system for the pursuit of resources to address quality of life issues. The Foundation provided $25,000 in matching funds for the project.
Urban Tree Planting 2004: The Council’s Urban Forestry program secured a grant to plant trees in participating municipalities. Approximately 275 urban trees planted.
Thomasville Recycling Project: The Council helped establish a paper recycling program with the Alabama Coalition of Mental Health Consumers to provide supportive employment for persons with mental illness or other acquired disabilities.
Corps of Engineers Park Road Paving Project: The Council assisted the Clarke County Commission in preparing a grant proposal to pave 5.4 miles of access roads into the Silver Creek and Old Lock 1 Corps of Engineers Parks. The County Commission used the proposals to obtain $1,600,583 in federal DOT funds.
ALA-TOM RC&D Office/Tourism Building: The Council Purchased and renovated a historic building in Thomasville for its office and for the Regional Tourism office.
Playground Safety Workshop: The Council assisted the Town of Pine Hill with a $1,293 Education Grant to conduct a workshop for municipalities and schools on how to design, construct, and maintain playgrounds to meet national safety standards, using the town’s park as a demonstration site.
Meadowview Elementary Outdoor Classroom Project: The Council assisted Meadowview Elementary School in Selma with an Education grant to construct an outdoor classroom area on the school campus. It is part of an ongoing effort to turn the entire campus into an outdoor learning area. Trees were planted, a butterfly garden established, fountains, weather station, and a recycling center established.
Sweetwater Baseball Field Lighting Project: The Council assisted the Town of Sweetwater with a $2,480 state grant to provide lights for the ball fields at the Town’s Park. The town provided $57,500 in matching funds to complete the project.
Remediation Services for High School Students: The Council provided a $1,795 educational grant to a local men’s organization called “Men making a Difference” to provide after school tutoring and mentoring for students at Clarke County High School. Emphasis was placed on students successfully passing the Alabama High School Graduation Exam. The organization provided matching funds in the amount of $2,000.
PROJECTS and Accomplishments FOR 2005
West Wilcox Recreation Park—Phase I—The first phase of developing a rural recreation park near Pine Hill was completed with the help of a $5,000 grant from the Council to the Park Board. Matching funds amounted to $11,429, for a total project cost of $16,429.
Tri-County Community Park—The Council gave a $6,000 grant to the Tri-County Community Organization to construct a youth baseball field in Packard’s Bend. The group provided $10,000 matching funds for a total of $16,000.
Collard Green Production and Marketing Project—The Council led a cooperative effort to promote collard green production in the southern portion of the state. A collard processing machine was purchased to provide cut and bagged collards for retail outlets in cooperation with Down South Foods in Selma. The Gulf Coast and Tombigbee RC&D Councils contributed $2,500 each, ALA-TOM contributed $5,000, Tuskegee University contributed $5,000, and the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries contributed $5,602 for a total of $20,602. Five jobs were created/retained, and 20 farmers sold collards through the project. Collards are sold in super markets and to three school lunch programs.
Alberta Community Development Plan—The Council provided assistance to four community groups in the Alberta community of Wilcox County to come together for the first time and develop a comprehensive strategic plan for community development. Work has begun on several identified projects.
Monroeville Future Forest Learning Center—The ALA-TOM Urban Forestry Program assisted Monroeville in building a tree seedling nursery for school students through a $9,350 USDA/AFC Urban and Community Forestry grant. The City provided $9,400 in matching funds and labor, for a total cost of $18,750.
Pine Apple Farmers Market—A farmers market shed was built in the Town of Pine Apple in Wilcox County through a $7,097 grant from the State Farmers Market Authority.
Travis Bridge Canoe/Boat Ramp—The Council provided the Conecuh County Commission a $8,920 grant to construct the third canoe/boat ramp on the Sepulga River as part of the Sepulga River Canoe Trail Project. The Commission provided $10,700 in matching funds, for a total cost of $19,620.
Clarke County Needs Assessment—The Council provided the Clarke County Development Foundation a $5,000 grant to develop a comprehensive needs assessment for the county to create a data management system for the pursuit of resources to address quality of life issues in the county. The foundation provided $25,000 in matching funds, for a total project cost of $30,000.
Unpaved Road Stream Crossing Inventory—The Council participated in a multi-state effort to identify potential sediment sources from unpaved roads. Roads were inventoried in Conecuh and Monroe counties, through a grant from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in the amount of $2,088. The Council contracted the inventory with the Conecuh County Soil and Water District.
Uniontown Technology Center—The Council awarded a $2,000 Extension educational grant to the City of Uniontown for computers, internet access, and printers to educate local citizens and school students. The project is located at the City Library which provided $2,000 in matching funds and in-kind services. The center was used by the NRCS Outreach program to train local farmers in accessing USDA through the internet.
Regional Community Development Conference—The Council provided the initial $5,000 grant for the conference held in Grove Hill called “Extraordinary Results in Ordinary Communities”. The day long workshop was led by Dr. Vaughn Grisham and people from communities that have been successful with community development. Over 300 attended from across the state. Various local municipalities and businesses provided $11,000 in matching funds.
Thomasville Youth Protection Project—The Council provided a $500 grant to the Thomasville Boy Scout Troop 76 to educate parents on prevention of kidnapping. The troop provided fingerprinting, digital photos and information to more than 200 parents and children at the Thomasville Youth Day. Local matching funds amounted to $2,858.
Area Small Farmers Workshop—The Council provided a $800 Extension educational grant to cosponsor a workshop for small farmers in Wilcox County. The Wilcox County Soil and Water Conservation District, Tuskegee Extension Service, and NRCS provided in-kind match for the program that reached 83 small farmers, most of which are minorities.
S.P. Hudson Park Improvement—The Council assisted the Town of Grove Hill with preparing a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant which was funded in the amount of $66,500 for improvements at the town park. Matching funds from the Town, foundations, and Governor’s Discretionary funds amounted to $206,293, for a total project cost of $272,793.
China School Recreational Facility—Phase 2—The Council assisted the Conecuh County Commission and the local community organization with the second grant to renovate the closed school building to serve as a community and recreational facility. This phase completed the kitchen and meeting area. The project was funded by a $30,000 legislative discretionary grant.
Alabama Tombigbee Tourism Trails—The Council received a $10,000 grant from a USDA-Forest Service Arts grant to develop four themed tourism trails for the region. The Council provided $10,500 in matching funds for the project that developed a Native American, Black History/Heritage, Foods, and History/ Heritage trails. Maps of sites were produced and printed and made downloadable fro the web site.
Grove Hill Welcome Signs Repair—The Council assisted the Grove Hill Area Chamber of Commerce with a $400 grant to repair the town’s welcome signs damaged by Hurricane Ivan. The Chamber provided $400 in matching funds.
Jackson Boys and Girls Club Building Repair—The Council awarded a $4,000 grant to the Boys and Girls Club to bring the building they were using up to fire code requirements. The Club matched the grant with $4,000 of their funds.
PROJECTS and accomplishments FOR 2004
Perry Lakes/Barton’s Beach Recreation Area—A public recreation park was developed at the Perry Lakes area behind the Marion Fish Hatchery and along the Cahaba River. The area provides public fishing, nature trails, picnicking, and canoe access. The project had many partners - the Council provided $5,029 in State funds, ADECA-Recreational Trails Program-$65.006, Perry County Commission-$18,000, Alabama Power Company Foundation-$12,000, The Nature Conservancy purchased 125 acres of land and made it available at a cost of $207,075, and the Auburn University Rural Studio provided students to design and build a pavilion and restrooms at an in-kind labor value of $145,976. The total cost of the project was $453,086.
Bottle Creek Canoe/Boat Ramp—The first canoe /boat ramp on the Sepulga River in Conecuh County was built by the Conecuh County Commission with assistance from the ALA-TOM RC&D Council. The ramp is the first of four for the Sepulga River Canoe Trail, which is being built to promote tourism in the county. The Council provided $8,450 in State funds, which was matched by County funds and in- kind work valued at $15, 431, for a total project cost of $23,881.
Tuscahoma Landing Paving Project—The City of Butler took on the project to construct a new boat landing on the Tombigbee River at the Tuscahoma site. The ramp and the paving of the access road to the site were completed. The Council assisted with an $8,000 State funds grant, which was matched by $43,700 in local funds.
St. Stephens Boat Ramp—The Council assisted the St. Stephens Historical Park with a State funds grant in the amount of $2,563 towards the construction of a boat ramp at the park on the Tombigbee River. The total cost was $60,990, with the St. Stephens Historical Commission providing $38,427, the Washington County Commission providing $10,000 of in-kind services, and the Alabama Department of Conservation providing $10,000 of in-kind services.
Sumter/Marengo Water Festival—The Council assisted in the sponsoring a water festival for the fourth grade students in Sumter and Marengo counties by providing a $2,500 grant from State Education funds, which was matched by various sources in the amount of $17,500.
Perry Lakes Park Interpretive Trail—Approximately 5 miles of nature trails in the Perry Lakes/Barton Beach Park were enhanced with tree and plant labels, trail ID markers, benches, and a visitors guide. The Council provided $3,550 in State Education funds, and was matched with $3,550 by the Perry County Soil and Water Conservation District, and $7,400 of in-kind services, for a total of $14,500.
Gilbertown Sportsplex—The Council assisted the Town of Gilbertown with planning and other assistance to build a baseball/softball complex. It consists of four lighted fields with concessions and restrooms. The project was funded with $105,744 from the Town of Gilbertown, a $54,600 legislative grant from State Senator Pat Lindsey, $40,000 from the Choctaw County Parks and Recreation Board, and $16,300 from various local sources, for a total project cost of $216,644.
Urban Tree Planting 2003—The Council’s Urban Forestry program assisted 5 municipalities in the area with writing and implementing an Alabama Power Company tree planting grant in the amount of $4,500. The grant was matched with in-kind services in the amount of $5,070. The project enabled the planting of 65 trees.
Perry Lakes Park Septic System—An alternative septic system was installed at the Perry Lakes Park with the assistance of students from Auburn University’s Rural Studio. The system serves the unique restrooms designed and built by the students. A $5,000 grant was provided from State funds, which was matched equally by in-kind services of the students.
Boykin Fire Truck—The Council provided funds for the Boykin Volunteer Fire Department to complete a grant to purchase a fire truck. The Council provided a $7,250 grant, which was matched by a $30,000 USDA-RD grant and $3,000 from the department.
National Voting Rights Museum Oral History Video Preservation Project—The Council provided $7,500 in State grant funds to the museum for a project to preserve oral histories recorded on video tape. Many of the tapes were beginning to deteriorate and will be transferred to DVD. All future interviews will be recorded on new DVD equipment. The Alabama Power Company Foundation provided the matching funds of $7,500.
Eaton Senior Citizen Center Landscaping and Walking Trail—Landscaping was done, and a walking trail constructed at the Eaton Senior Citizens Center in Boykin. The Council provided a $2,250 State funds grant, which was matched by in-kind assistance in the amount of $21,246.
Alabama River Museum Exhibit—The Council provided a $5,000 grant to the Monroe County Heritage Museum for permanent displays at the museum located at the Claiborne Lock and Dam. The museum provided matching through in-kind services in the amount of $6,862.
Castleberry Community Development Center, Phases I & II—The Council provided grant funds for two phases of the renovation of the old Castleberry Jr. High School building for a community center. In the first phase, State grant funds in the amount of $9,331 was used to put a roof on the buildings. These funds were matched by funds raised locally by the organization. In the second phase, windows, doors, and wiring were completed in the auditorium making it useable for functions. Second phase funds provided by the Council were in the amount of $8,950, which was equally matched locally.
Gilbertown Sportsplex Restrooms—The Council assisted the Town of Gilbertown with a $4,550 State funds grant for the restrooms at the new park, which was matched with local funds.
Tourism Video—A tourism promotional video for the region was produced through a $10,000 USDA- Forest Service Economic Recovery grant. A web site for the Regional Tourism Initiative was also developed—www.alabamasfrontporches.org. The grant was matched with in-kind services in the amount of $5,032. The video has been well received, and even won an award.
Clean Vessel Education—$4,000 in grant funds were received from ADEM to do public outreach and information on the need for boat sewage pump out and water quality for boaters. The Council provided $5,660 of in-kind services.
Boys and Girls Club of Southwest Alabama—A $4,000 grant from State funds was made to the club in Jackson to make repairs on their building to bring it into compliance with fire codes. The club matched the appropriation with funds and in-kind services.
Rabbit Project—A council supported project to provide information and outreach to area rabbit producers.