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Pedestrian trails enhance health and communities

Posted 2012 01 17

Cities are realizing that hike and bike trails inspire citizens to get moving and also enhance local economies.

The cities of Jackson, Ridgeland and Flowood recently received a collective total of $3.1 million for pedestrian trail enhancements awarded through the Mississippi Department of Transportation.

Jackson received $1.1 million to build a new, 2-mile hike and bike trail that will start at the Mississippi Agriculture Museum and end at the Farmer's Market downtown. Heart of Mississippi Trails signs will appear along the route, which will connect the Belhaven Heights, Laurel Street and Lefleur’s Bluff State Parks.

To enhance existing trails, the city of Ridgeland was awarded $1.1 million, while Flowood received $1 million. Cities must pay 20 percent in matching funds as part of the federal Transportation Enhancement Program.

The Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership, which helped write the grant for Jackson’s upcoming trail, hopes the trail will eventually hook together with others to make a more extensive trail network, like those found in larger cities such as Minneapolis, Nashville or Portland, said group president Duane O’Neill. As far as Mississippi trails go, the “Longleaf Trace is one we admire a whole lot,” he said.

Longleaf Trace

The Longleaf Trace is a 40-mile, paved, multi-use trail built with $5.6 million in federal dollars. It runs through the towns of Prentiss, Carson, Bassfield and Sumrall and ends near the main University of Southern Mississippi campus in Hattiesburg. The Trace was built on a former rail line of the Mississippi Central Railroad and includes an equestrian trail that follows it for 22 miles.

The Trace is currently undergoing a $1.7 million extension that will connect it to downtown Hattiesburg and also to the Hattiesburg Zoo, one of two zoos in the state.

The Trace has been well-used by local residents and visitors.

Herlon Pierce, who has managed the Longleaf Trace for more than a decade, said, “We‘re going into our twelfth year of operation. Last year we probably had somewhere around 80,000 uses on the trail ... and 3,000 to 5,000 of those uses were from out of state.”

Serious cyclists tell Pierce the Trace, which ranks in the top 25 for Rails to Trails projects nationwide, is one of the best in the country.

“A lot of people come here, and they’ll spend a week. ... We know that the trail is producing an economic impact through a number of businesses, like restaurants and hotels,” he said. “It has a multitude of benefits, but the trail’s No. 1 priority is quality of life.”

Chad Newell, president of Hattiesburg’s Area Development Partnership, said the Longleaf Trace is “a wonderful quality of life amenity for the area and always something we mention for business recruitment. ... We pride out selves on quality of life here in Hattiesburg ... but it also plays into corporate decisions. Certainly corporations are looking at the bottom line on business side of the equation, but when they are looking to relocate executives from other parts of the country, it just provides a comfort level that we have amenities here that are offered in larger cities in the U.S.”

A pedestrian trail like the Longleaf Trace inspires people to start cycling, as evidenced by the increase in business at Moore’s Bicycle Shop in Hattiesburg. Owner James Moore, who has had the shop since 1984, said the Long Leaf Trace has had an enormous impact on his business. And although he sells racing bikes, most of his customers are first-time cyclists looking for a starter bicycle.

When Moore expanded and relocated his store around the time the Trace opened in 2000, his business doubled.

Ridgeland Trails

The 14-mile city of Ridgeland trails are also well-used, especially by the city’s mayor, Gene McGee. The self-dubbed “cycling mayor” bikes about 150 miles per week and has logged almost 5,000 miles this year.

McGee says trail events, like the Heatwave Classic Triathlon and the Natchez Trace Century Ride, attract money to the area.

The trails “bring a large number of individuals to our city to participate in different events ... They come and shop and buy gas and eat here. It definitely benefits the economy as well as businesses, and residents want to relocate in a place with quality of life features,” he said.

The Ridgeland Trails cost a total of $6.1 million, $1.5 million of which was invested by the city. A new $100,000 grant from the state Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks will be used to add a pavilion and restrooms near the Ross Barnett Reservoir. Future plans will take the trails all the way to Clinton.

Source: Mississippi Business Journal /
Pulse: Mississippi Health Care Quarterly
Article: Pedestrian trails enhance health and communities
Winter 2011 | Amy McCullough
 

ADP Prepares for New Business Guide

Posted 2011 12 12

In today’s competitive market, communities compete for new dollars from visitors, individuals relocating and companies interested in finding just the right place for their corporate expansions. They look for services, a diverse marketplace, high educational standards and amenities that set our community apart from the others they might be considering.

Marketing our business community is vital to competing not only nationally but globally, and our message must find its way to the right target audience. That is why I am proud to announce the first issue of the Business Guide and Membership Directory of Greater Hattiesburg, A Hub for Life, a full color business magazine and membership directory designed to provide additional exposure for members while enhancing our marketing efforts of Greater Hattiesburg.

Business Guide and Membership Directory of Greater Hattiesburg, A Hub for Life offers:

• Two (2) complimentary listings of your business (Alpha & Categorical)
• A full year of exposure for your business
• Great photography and articles that truly tell our story
• An on-line version of the Magazine complete with “call to action links” to your websites and email addresses
• A targeted distribution aimed at the decision-makers you want to reach
• A range of advertising rates so that any chamber member can participate
• 5,000 copies distributed

I encourage you to become a part of the Business Guide and Membership Directory of Greater Hattiesburg, A Hub for Life, and begin to maximize your exposure through a key component of our marketing message. A sales representative from our publishing partner SouthComm will call on you soon to determine your marketing needs.

Please make it a point to schedule a short meeting with a representative from SouthComm.  If you know already that you want to be one of the first to learn about this opportunity or secure a prime location, please complete the form below and fax to 1-800-488-3101 or contact your marketing consultant, Betty Revis at 817-821-6151 (.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)).

Thank you for your continued support of the ADP. Advertising in the Business Guide and Membership Directory of Greater Hattiesburg, A Hub for Life, will ensure that your business is reaching its intended target. With 5,000 copies set for distribution and an online version on our new website, your advertising message and listing in our 2012 Membership Directory are sure to hit the mark.

Don't Delay! Fill out this form and send to: 1-800-488-3101
____ Please call on us first about possible prime position options.
____ We would like to hear more.  Please call to provide more information.
Print Firm Name: _____________________________ Phone: ___________________
Contact Person: _______________________________________________________

An Evening of Giving Raises Money and Awareness for Local Non-Profits

Posted 2011 12 09

The Area Development Partnership (ADP) is pleased to announce that the first year event, An Evening of Giving, raised $1965 for local non-profit organizations in an effort to showcase them by creating an opportunity for exposure. Similar to a monthly Business After Hours, An Evening of Giving was geared specifically toward non-profit groups who ideally cannot host such an event due to a non-conducive location and/or financial constraints.

Exposing the ADP membership and community at large to the various charitable organizations located in the Pine Belt, An Evening of Giving generated funds for each organization via a 50-50 raffle which was kicked off at the November First Friday Breakfast, and concluded the night of the event. Winning ticket holder, USM Children’s Center for Communication & Development, received half of the proceeds, while the other half will be distributed amongst the participating charities.

“Non-profit organizations work tirelessly year round to assist those in need, all in an effort to enhance the quality of life, while establishing Greater Hattiesburg as a great place to live, work and play. An Evening of Giving is the ADP’s way to thank these entities for their efforts and to support future endeavors,” said Valencia Williamson, Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce Division. 

Participating organizations included; American Red Cross, Christian Services Center, DREAM OF Hattiesburg, DuBard School for Language Disorders, Habitat for Humanity, Kappa Alpha Psi, Make A Wish Foundation, Greater Pine Belt Community Foundation, R³SM, Salvation Army, Southern Pines Animal Shelter, USM Children’s Center for Communication & Development and United Way of Southeast Mississippi.

Click here to view photos from the event.

ADP Touts Accomplishments

Posted 2011 12 02

With the end of the year just weeks away, the Area Development Partnership leaders on Friday highlighted 2011 accomplishments during the First Friday breakfast and annual meeting.

In a video presentation, President Chad Newell touched on completion of its five-year capital campaign that generated 130 investors and $2.4 million to the ADP budget. The private, nonprofit organization has roughly 870 members including individuals, businesses and organizations dedicated to community and economic development.

The organization also launched its newly designed website, http://www.theadp.com that ,Communications and Events Director Catherine Lott described as one that "provides more complete, concise information for all of our audiences in a new, easy-to-find format."

Other noted accomplishments of the year included snagging major industries such as Stion, Bracco Diagnostics and several business expansion projects including Resinall Corp., which committed to a $17 million capital investment and adding 10 employees to its 120-person staff.

"Without our board of directors, ambassadors, members and volunteers, we wouldn't be able to accomplish all of these great things," Newell said. "The greater Hattiesburg area continues to be recognized nationally."

Newell said funds from the capital campaign project make up 29 percent of the ADP's budget. The remaining 71 percent comes from public funding.

"We couldn't make the positive impacts we've had on the regional economy without your support," Newell said in a video presentation. "Thank you for making this a successful campaign."

Greg Garraway, outgoing chairman for the board of directors, pledged his continued involvement and encouraged others to continue to show support for future goals.  "It's been a privilege and honor to serve as chair. We've had a fantastic year, strong economic development ... where we're going is just tremendous," he said. "This has been a great experience for me and an honor to serve in this capacity."

Incoming chair, Lou Ann Poynter lauded Garraway's leadership and pledged to continue the organization's successes.  "Greg has set the bar pretty high for those of us that are coming after him," she said. "With the Stion announcement and successful capital campaign, it's a tough act to follow, but with the team we're putting together, we'll be able to do it."

The following awards also were given to members for their continued ADP support:
Spirit Award: Linda Nary, Community Bank
Service Award: Joe Paul, the University of Southern Mississippi
Ambassador of the Year: Patricia King, The First, A National Banking Association
Chair's Award of Excellence: Hattiesburg Clinic, received by Tommy Thornton, Executive Director

Source: Hattiesburg American Online
Article: ADP touts accomplishments
December 2, 2011 | La Tonya Frelix

 

Academy Sports + Outdoors Opens Today

Posted 2011 11 22

Pine Belt sports and outdoor enthusiasts have a new place to shop for a broad range of equipment. Academy Sports + Outdoors officially opens at 8 a.m. today at 6173 U.S. 98. The 76,000-square-foot store features hunting, fishing and camping equipment and sports, leisure, footwear and apparel products. The store also has a digital golf simulator and archery lane.
Hattiesburg is the 140th location for the Texas-based retailer.

To celebrate the opening, prizes will be given to the first 140 customers in line as the store opens through Sunday. "The theme of the store is a good, better, best format for pricing," store manager Louis Tenney said. "Our associates are trained in the different categories to give people advice or product suggestions."

The first customers were 30 kids from the Hattiesburg Boys & Girls Club who shopped Thursday using $100 gift cards donated by the store. A grand opening celebration is planned for Dec. 2-4 and will include give-aways, prizes and product try-ons, interactive product demonstrations and games. Customers also can register to win prizes that include a $500 gift card each day, and brand-new bicycles from Huffy and Pacific. The first 100 customers in line at 8 a.m. Dec. 2 will receive a free pair of Crocs.

Source: Hattiesburg American Online
Article: Academy Sports + Outdoors opens today
November 17, 2011 | La Tonya Frelix

1,100 Turn Out for Job Fair In Hattiesburg

Posted 2011 11 02

When Jodi Nolan went on-line to research the Hattiesburg Pine Belt Job Fair, her expectations weren't exactly sky-high. "I had looked to see what people would be here, and there really wasn't a whole lot for me," said Nolan, who was interested in accounting or personal care positions. "I thought, 'Oh, there's one I can apply for.'"

Reality proved quite different for Nolan. "I found several," said Nolan, who had relocated to Hattiesburg a couple of months ago. "I have several numbers to call and applications to turn back in, so I'm happy."

That's the whole idea, said Adam Todd, director of the Governor's Job Fair Network. Todd said 58 organizations were represented Wednesday at the fair staged at the Lake Terrace Convention Center, and "everyone I've talked to has been real happy, applicants are walking away smiling, saying they have interviews set up and this, that and the other. You get both parts of the equation like that, and that's something good."

The traffic was steady. By 11:30 a.m., more than 700 had moved through the aisles of booths, looking to establish contacts or drop off resumes. "I came with 150 cups, and these are my last two" said Tony Gier, human resources director for United Blood Services/Natchez Trace Region.

By the time Todd stopped keeping official tabs about 1:15 p.m., 1,100 job seekers had come through the doors. "It was very good," Todd said. "Every part of Mississippi is different, so you're comparing apples to oranges, but for the Pine Belt, this was huge."

And in a way, reassuring.

"I'm a college student, and sometimes I feel like there's no point because there's no jobs," said Jasmine Cox, a 20-year-old Hattiesburg resident who is majoring in prechild/family studies at Jones County Junior College. "That's how I feel, but there's no harm in putting an application in and trying." Cox said she was seeking something in retail.

Her friend and fellow Natchez native, Chantelle Knight, was less picky. "Anything with benefits, because once you turn 18, your chips are gone," said Knight, 21, who said she had been in Hattiesburg for the past year.

Gier said fairs like Wednesday's were a great place to start. "I've been doing this for over 25 years and I love job fairs," Gier said. "Job fairs and networking are the two best (ways) when you're trying to find a job."

Exactly, said Knight, a former University of Southern Mississippi student who was looking for a job to pay back her school loans. "I know someone who got a job coming to one of these," she said.

In a post-fair survey of the participating organizations, Todd said 1,354 resumes had been accepted for consideration, and 193, on-site interviews had been conducted. "There were 134 job offers extended, and we're estimating that 216 hires will result from today within the next year," Todd said.

Mary Myles, associate support department supervisor at Home Depot No. 2905 in Hattiesburg, said she had been taking names to build up the company's seasonal hiring pool. "This is my first year, and I have enjoyed every minute of it," Myles said. "This has been very, very beneficial to the company."

Wednesday's affair marked the 16th that the Governor's Job Fair Network had staged throughout Mississippi in 2011, Todd said. "We go wherever we are invited," Todd said. "It does not matter how large the city or how small the town. Our main goal and objective is to create the environment that facilitates the hiring process. We seek out the organizations that are actually hiring to be present. It's not a (public relations) move for a company to be here. You have to have a job opening or use this job fair to fill a position that is coming up in the future."

Employers ranged from medical to retail to manufacturing to military to education. "We have a wide range of job opportunities," Todd said. "If you can weld, be here. If you're a machinist, be here. If you're looking for a sales management position, be here. We try to have a wide range to appeal to the widest audience as possible."

That sounded good to Cox. "That's what most of (Hattiesburg) is, college students, so they always ought to be willing to hire college students," Cox said. "We're alone, by ourselves, and that is all we can do, is work."

Gier said he had been impressed not only by the number of people in attendance, but in the quality of the applicants. "Actually, this one ranks right up there with a couple of year's ago, up in Neshoba County," Gier said. "To me, it's a good sign when people are still looking (for work). It's when people have given up that it's not such a good sign."

Source: Hattiesburg American Online
Article: 1,000 turn out for job fair in Hattiesburg
November 2, 2011 | Tim Doherty

Stion Corporation Cuts Ribbon at Hattiesburg Facility

Posted 2011 10 20

The Area Development Partnership (ADP), along with Governor Haley Barbour and the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA), cut the ceremonial ribbon today for Stion Corporation, signifying the progress they’ve made in the past months.

In January of 2011, Stion Corporation announced they would be locating in Greater Hattiesburg, bringing a $500 million investment and 1,000 jobs within six years.  Within the first year, they’ve already hired 100 employees and plan to have 140 on board by the end of 2011.  During the first phase in 2011 and 2012, Stion’s capital investment will exceed $100 million.

“These are exciting times here in Hattiesburg,” said Hattiesburg Mayor Johnny DuPree.  “Having Stion invest more than $100 million and hire hundreds of employees in today’s economy is absolutely phenomenal.  The creation of high-tech, renewable-energy jobs is important and these are good paying jobs that allow Mississippians to sustain their families in tough economic times.”

Stion manufactures high-efficiency, low-cost, thin-film solar panels based on proprietary materials and device expertise, and proven production equipment and processes.   Stion’s product has a simple, low-cost integrated circuit design, and is suitable for use in all major market segments.  Stion recently produced the highest efficiency thin-film circuit ever made at production scale which was measured at 14.1% efficiency by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.  

Stion has partnered extensively with Pearl River Community College and The University of Southern Mississippi.

Dr. Martha Saunders, President of The University of Southern Mississippi stated, “Creating high-tech, green energy jobs in Hattiesburg fits well with our vision at Southern Miss.  We are committed to a sustainable culture and the creation of jobs that can employ our graduates.  Stion’s presence in Hattiesburg will also allow for long-term research collaborations that can solve societal problems.  The opportunities are limitless as we strengthen our partnership in the months and years ahead.”

By the fourth quarter of 2011, Stion plans to finish construction of Phase I and begin producing thin-film solar panels, with production increasing in early 2012.  Stion is expected to have 200 employees at its Hattiesburg facility by the end of 2012.

“Stion is off to a fabulous start here in Forrest County,” said David Hogan, Forrest County Board of Supervisors President.  “The company has already hired 100 workers at the new facility.  It was a team effort to get them here and it will be a team effort to ensure their long term success.  We plan on doing everything possible to meet the company’s needs as they continue to grow here in our community.  This is just what we need to keep our local economy moving in the right direction.”

The Area Development Partnership looks forward to Stion’s continued growth and investment over the coming years in Greater Hattiesburg.  To learn more about Stion, visit www.stion.com.

###

The Area Development Partnership serves as the Chamber of Commerce, Community and Economic Development organization for Forrest, Lamar and Perry Counties, the City of Hattiesburg and the City of Petal.  The mission of the ADP is to stimulate economic growth through the resources of its members and partners leading to an improved economic well-being and quality of life for Greater Hattiesburg Area citizens.

Bracco Diagnostics to Demonstrate Products Line as Part of Open House

Posted 2011 10 19

A breakthrough in medical technology that is already benefitting U.S. military personnel will be on display during an open house for Bracco Diagnostics Inc., on Tuesday, Oct. 25 at The University of Southern Mississippi’s business/science incubator known as The Accelerator.

Headquartered in Milan, Italy, Bracco (http://www.bracco.com) became an Accelerator tenant in the fall of 2010 and began production shortly thereafter of its patented lotion that neutralizes chemical warfare agents. A soldier using the lotion will realize significantly reduced effects after exposure to chemical warfare.

Those who attend the open house (set for 1:30-3:30 p.m.) will have an opportunity to tour Bracco’s robotic production line and catch a first-hand glimpse of how cutting-edge technology is being developed in the heart of South Mississippi.

“Bracco Diagnostics, a global leader in medical diagnostics, had opportunities to expand their business and develop their technology elsewhere,” said Accelerator Executive Director Sunny Webb. “Their decision to partner with The University of Southern Mississippi is a clear indicator that we are competitive at a global business level. The relationship with Bracco is a perfect example of how The Accelerator is designed to work as a launching point for creating innovative technologies and new jobs.”

Bracco is developing and manufacturing its products in Hattiesburg as part of its Healthcare Protective Products Division (HPPD). Initially, 10 people were hired to operate the new facility and Webb noted that discussions are ongoing between Bracco and Southern Miss to develop additional products, which could lead to more employment opportunities.
State and local dignitaries are expected to attend the open house, along with Southern Miss administrators and Bracco representatives. Tim Henry, vice-president and general manager of Bracco’s HPPD, said the open house provides an opportunity to highlight the company’s success as an Accelerator tenant.

“We look forward to celebrating the cooperation between the U.S. Government, the State of Mississippi and The University of Southern Mississippi that allowed the Healthcare Protective Products Division of BDI to create a U.S. manufacturing base for our potentially life-saving medical devices,” said Henry. “The recently hired and future employees at the HPPD facility within the Hattiesburg Accelerator can be proud that these medical devices are already on their way to the U.S. Department of Defense and first responders to help make the battlefield and homeland a little safer.”

The Accelerator, which opened in March 2011, is the university’s newest initiative to support innovation and entrepreneurship. The $30 million facility offers more than 60,000 square feet of world-class resources and equipment to support early-stage science companies.

Source: The University of Southern Mississippi
Contact: Van Arnold | 601.266.5568 | .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Jubail, Hattiesburg Welcome Major Projects

Posted 2011 09 16

 

These site criteria mirror many of the requirements of much larger plastics and chemicals manufacturers. In one of the industry’s largest deals in recent years, Dow Chemical Co. and Saudi Arabian Oil Co. announced plans on July 25 to build a massive plastics complex in Jubail, Saudi Arabia.

The $20-billion project will create thousands of new jobs and is scheduled for full production by 2016. The complex will include 26 units and will have an annual capacity of nearly 7 billion pounds of various products, mostly plastics and chemicals.

The Fluor Corp., based in Irving, Texas, has been awarded the utilities and offsites contract for the new joint venture, called Sadara Chemical Co. The new chemicals complex is expected to be the largest single-phase development in the world.

In the U.S., plastics companies are tending to expand their operations closer to home. A case in point is Resinall, a manufacturer of thermoplastic resins and polymers. The firm announced July 28 that it will expand its existing operations in Hattiesburg, Miss., to accommodate the production of white-water resins.

Resinall said it would build a three-story, 3,000-sq.-ft. (279-sq.-m.) facility at its current Dixie Pine Road location with an investment of $17 million. The project retains 120 jobs and adds 10 more.

Ken Cooley, vice president of operations and technology for Resinall, tells Site Selection that Mississippi beat out North Carolina for the project because the plant in Hattiesburg "is closer to our base of raw materials. We can get hydrocarbon stock out of Louisiana and Texas and resin out of Florida and Alabama."

Cooley says another key factor was the presence of an established work force and senior management team in Hattiesburg, one of the leading polymer science research locations in the world.

"The University of Southern Mississippi has a worldwide reputation for its expertise in polymer science," he says. "We certainly benefit from the graduates of their research program. We have had some very talented people come to Resinall from Southern Miss."

Cooley says the new facility should be operational by late 2012. The Mississippi Development Authority assisted the project by providing funding through the Job Protection Grant program.

"We are very excited and consider this a milestone for Resinall," said Lee Godina, executive vice president of Resinall. "It will allow commercialization of our newest technology, allow entry into new markets, create jobs and help to protect approximately 120 existing jobs.

"Cooperation from the leadership of Hattiesburg, Forrest County and the state of Mississippi is a major reason for Resinall’s success and growth," said Godina. "I am appreciative of the help from the Mississippi Development Authority and the Area Development Partnership for their assistance in bringing this vision to reality."

Article from Site Selection

Council To OK Free Curbside Recycling

Posted 2011 09 15

In life, there aren't many things that are free. But to the relief of many Hattiesburg residents, one of them will be curbside recycling. Today, the Hattiesburg City Council is set to adopt a city-wide curbside recycling program that will be implemented at no cost to residents. The council's decision to offer curbside recycling service at no charge comes after a firestorm of opposition. During an October public meeting, residents were against a $1.74 monthly fee that would have been added to water and sewer bills.

"We believe in the importance of this recycling program, and are willing to step out in faith that our citizens will join with us in supporting it," Council President Kim Bradley said earlier in a prepared statement about the program. "The more participation we have, the faster the program will pay for itself."

Details about how the program will be implemented were revealed during City Council's agenda review Monday. The city is hoping to start the program by Jan. 1. The council will vote today on accepting proposals from Waste Pro and Advanced Disposal which call for three-year agreements. Pick-up for recyclable goods will occur once a week for each household. The contractors will deliver 18-gallon collection bins and pick-up information approximately three weeks before the program begins to the more than 11,000 single-family residences, 100 apartment units and more than 300 businesses within the city limits. There also will be four bulk collection centers around town where recyclable goods also can be dropped off.

"For this to work, we really think the city has to buy into this," Bradley said during Monday night's discussion.

To achieve that, Waste Pro officials intend to begin a city-wide educational program about the benefits of recycling to area elementary schools.

"I think removing the fee will just about take all the issues people had with it away," said Linda Walter, a Highlands neighborhood resident who attended last month's public meeting. "The lack of a fee will really help those people struggling to make ends meet."

Source: Hattiesburg American Online
Article: Council to OK free curbside recycling
November 7, 2001 | Terry Jones

RESINALL CORP RETAINS 120 JOBS, ADDS 10

Posted 2011 07 28

Resinall, Inc. announced today the expansion of their Hattiesburg plant, resulting in retaining the current 120 jobs, adding 10 new jobs and an overall capital investment of $17 million.  The Hattiesburg manufacturing plant will begin a new product line tapping into a growing industry.

Resinall, Inc., a family-owned business, began in 1984 by John Godina, Sr.  A manufacturer of resins, Resinall’s primary market is oil based graphic arts – a printing ink.  Seeing a decline in the printing ink business, Resinall owners proactively took steps to enter new markets utilizing current and new technologies.  The $17 million investment allows them the capability to tap into the booming market of adhesives.  The two primary markets are high grade packaging adhesives and personal hygiene adhesives. 

“We are very excited and consider this project to be a milestone for Resinall,” said Executive Vice President of Resinall Corp, Lee Godina.  “It will allow commercialization of our newest technology, allow entry into new markets, create new jobs and help to protect approximately 120 existing jobs. Cooperation from the leadership in Hattiesburg, Forrest County, and the State of Mississippi is a major reason for Resinall’s success and growth.  I am appreciative of the help from the Mississippi Development Authority and the Area Development Partnership for their assistance in bringing this vision to reality”. 

The expansion is exciting news for the company, and allows Resinall to diversify their product offerings to remain competitive in today’s ever changing marketplace.  Adding another product line helps retain 120 jobs here in Hattiesburg and creates 10 new jobs.  Additionally, Resinall is tapping into a growing industry with hopes of further future expansion.  Resinall is incredibly proud of their expansion and retention of jobs, but additionally holds great pride in the fact that these new products were developed by their own team.

The Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) played a major role in helping this announcement come to fruition in a multitude of ways, including providing a Mississippi Job Protection Act Grant for the company.  Resinall will also qualify to apply for various local and state tax exemptions.

“It is always great news when an existing company chooses to expand its operations and its workforce, and I am pleased MDA was able to assist Resinall with its latest venture,” said MDA Executive Director Leland Speed. “I wish the company continued success and thank everyone involved for their work in making this project happen.”

The City of Hattiesburg and Forrest County are undoubtedly excited for the news.

“Resinall is a longstanding corporate citizen here in our community,” stated Hattiesburg Mayor Johnny DuPree.  “We realize that companies have many choices when making investment decisions and we are very grateful that Resinall chose to invest in Hattiesburg.  We’ve created a pro-business environment here and we want the world to know that Hattiesburg is open for business.”

Forrest County Board of Supervisors President David Hogan expounded, “With the announcement today, Resinall reconfirms their commitment to continue investing in Forrest County.  The company is retaining jobs and adding new ones, which is just outstanding news for our region.  We want to bend over backwards to help companies grow and prosper here in Greater Hattiesburg.”

Chad Newell, President of the Area Development Partnership is extremely pleased about Resinall’s continued investment in the area.  “Resinall’s $17 million capital investment in Greater Hattiesburg speaks volumes about their confidence in our community.  Moreover, retaining 120 jobs and adding 10 new ones is just awesome in today’s challenging economy.  Resinall’s decision to implement a new product line here diversifies the company’s customer base and ensures the stability of the local facility.  I commend the Resinall team for their ability to adapt and for their confidence in our region.  We also want to thank our colleagues at the Mississippi Development Authority for their assistance on this project.”

###

The Area Development Partnership is the regional Chamber of Commerce, Community Development and Economic Development organization serving Forrest, Lamar and Perry Counties, the City of Hattiesburg and the City of Petal. The mission of the ADP is to stimulate economic growth and enhance the well-being and quality of life for all area citizens.  For more information on the Area Development Partnership, contact 601.296.7500 or visit www.theADP.com

Letter to the Editor: Thank You ADP Members

Posted 2011 07 08

The Area Development Partnership (ADP) recently celebrated its 2011 Membership Appreciation Week with the theme “Get On Board.”  The three day event encompassed Membership Appreciation Days on July 6 and 7, and closed with a Membership Appreciation Breakfast on July 8 at Southern Oaks House & Gardens; sponsored by Southern Oaks House & Gardens and Central Sunbelt Federal Credit Union.

The ADP staff and over 40 member volunteers worked diligently to acknowledge and personally thank the business community, by hand delivering gift bags to ADP member businesses within the tri-county area. Each bag included the 2011-2012 ADP Business Guide with an up-to-date listing of our 850 plus members along with a gift that served as a token of our appreciation.

Our sincere appreciation goes out to the many volunteers who took time from their schedules to make this event successful. We would also like to extend a special thank you to each and every member for supporting our efforts as we strive to enhance the region’s economy.  Without the strength of the business community, this region would not grow and prosper. Your involvement in the community is what makes us strong.

We encourage you to take full advantage of the many membership opportunities and benefits that the ADP has to offer. We look forward to continuing the growth of Greater Hattiesburg by working hand in hand with your business.

For more information about becoming a member of the ADP, please contact Haley Carter at 601.296.7501 or by email at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). Don’t wait! Get on board with the ADP today!

Chad Newell
President, Area Development Partnership

 

Two Business Parks Now Project Ready

Posted 2011 05 23

The Area Development Partnership (ADP) proudly announces that two business parks in the Greater Hattiesburg Area have earned certification as Project Ready sites, a site certification program launched by Mississippi Power’s economic development department in 2008 to attract new companies to Southeast Mississippi. 

One of the fastest growing trends in the site location business is the demand for “Project Ready” industrial and technology park sites.  Companies move much faster today than in the past when making site location decisions.  These companies want sites ready-to-go or at a least with a definitive plan in place to minimize risk and expedite development schedules.  The South Lamar Industrial Park and The Garden Innovation and Commercialization Park are being certified as Project Ready.

“Receiving these certifications will truly help our economic development team in recruiting new and expanding businesses,” stated Chad Newell, President of the Area Development Partnership.  “To not only have one, but two sites that we can tout as Project Ready is outstanding.”

In order to achieve certification for both sites, the ADP has worked alongside Lamar County, Lamar County Economic Development District, the City of Lumberton, Forrest County, the City of Hattiesburg and The University of Southern Mississippi to complete all of the preliminary work for each site.  The work completed helps the ADP understand specifics about each site that will come into question when companies are looking to build, including ownership issues, infrastructure and engineering issues, and any obstacles with development – along with an established plan for addressing them. In addition, the ADP knows what it will cost to make various improvements and how long it will take to bring infrastructure to the site.

“Across the country, we’re seeing that certified sites are a proven advantage to lure industry,” said Mississippi Power Economic Development Director Arnie Williams.  “We have seen how certified sites have brought major projects to other communities, and how great an impact they have on the regional economy.  The certification helps both Forrest and Lamar Counties be better prepared when companies explore our region for new facilities.”

Mississippi Power retained McCallum Sweeney Consulting (MSC), a site selection consulting firm based in Greenville, S. C.; and Waggoner Engineering Inc., based in Jackson, Miss, to conduct a thorough analysis of the sites.  MSC is one of the nation’s leading site selection firms and is actually providing the certification along with Mississippi Power.  The certification was achieved after meeting detailed criteria regarding ownership, zoning, site mapping, infrastructure analyses, environmental and archaeological reports, etc.

HUBFEST brings record-setting crowds to downtown Hattiesburg

Posted 2011 04 05

Saturday, March 26, the Area Development Partnership transformed downtown Hattiesburg into HUBFEST 2011. Presented by FestivalSouth, HUBFEST celebrated art, music, food and fun for the 27th year, making it a local tradition.

From 9:00 am to 5:00 pm the streets of downtown were lined with over 250 booths promoting businesses and selling items from children’s clothing to original fine arts.  There were also two sections of food vendors which offered everything from festival favorites to local restaurant cuisine. Boasting more vendors downtown than the event has seen in years with the help of beautiful weather, HUBFEST saw record-setting attendance.

Four stages of entertainment presented music genres to suit the tastes of everyone in attendance. The performances ranged from local musicians to regional and national talent. The well rounded family-friendly event also offered entertainment for children. Mississippi Power Company sponsored a Children’s Art Show which displayed art from local children of all school ages. The Children’s Village sponsored by BancorpSouth was located in Town Square Park and offered games and activities for children of younger ages.

The Area Development Partnership would like to thank the sponsors who helped make the success of the anticipated event possible. In addition to FestivalSouth, Mississippi Power Company and BancorpSouth, Forrest County and the City of Hattiesburg each sponsored an entertainment stage. Forrest General Hospital and Stion sponsored the event t-shirts and totes, and Hampton Inn provided quality lodging to out-of-town guests. Alter Metal Recycling, Camellia Home Health, Living Spaces Homestore, Regions Bank, SouthGroup Insurance and Walnut Circle Grill supported the festival as Corporate Sponsors and Shows, Dearman & Waits as a General Sponsor. The ADP would like to extend thanks to local media sponsors Blakeney Communications, Clear Channel Radio, Hattiesburg American, Hattiesburg Publishing, SuperTalk Mississippi, WDAM, WHLT-CBS22 and WUSM.

Everyone from Hattiesburg natives to out-of-town visitors enjoyed the all-inclusive festival. With art, music, food and fun, HUBFEST created an enjoyable environment for all in attendance. The Area Development Partnership is looking forward to continuing the Hattiesburg tradition with bigger plans for HUBFEST 2012.

SEMCIC Partners with The First for Small Business Lending

Posted 2011 01 27

The Southeast Mississippi Community Investment Corporation (SEMCIC) is proud to announce its newly formed partnership with The First, A National Banking Association, for small business lending throughout the Forrest, Lamar and Perry County areas.

SEMCIC, a non-traditional small business lender, serves as a gap financier with member banks in the Greater Hattiesburg Area and provides micro loans to existing businesses and start-up companies.  Established in 1993, SEMCIC is a non-profit Mississippi Corporation dedicated to job creation, business creation and expansion, the support of non-traditional business loan seekers, as well as the expansion of job opportunities for low-and-moderate income individuals.   Since its inception, SEMCIC has placed more than $1.7M throughout the Pine Belt region, with a total job commitment of 75 people in various business sectors such as childcare facilities, restaurants, trucking companies, retailers, and manufacturers.

BancorpSouth, Great Southern National Bank, Hancock Bank, Regions Bank, and Trustmark National Bank have all been instrumental in partnering with SEMCIC in the vast majority of these loans.  Non-traditional lending such as this has limited vitality without the positive collaborations that our original lending partners have afforded SEMCIC.  In fact, the existing member banks have been SEMCIC partners since the inception of the program in 1993.

“SEMCIC has a long history of assisting small business in the Hattiesburg area which coincides with our bank’s mission to invest locally to help our community grow,” said Hoppy Cole, CEO and President of The First, A National Banking Association.  “We are proud to partner with SEMCIC and look forward to working together to help small business development in our area.”

SEMCIC has creatively structured a long list of allies for support and technical assistance for the business owners and individuals it serves.  The program partners with JCJC’s Small Business Development Center, Business Launchpoint, SCORE and the South Mississippi Contract Procurement Center in providing technical assistance for potential loan recipients and existing businesses that may be in need of guidance.  These partnerships, in part, ensure all clients of receiving a thorough assessment of their proposal prior to submitting it for potential funding.  Further, SEMCIC prides itself in serving as a referral resource by directing those clients the program may not be able to serve to other funding resources throughout the state of Mississippi.  These collaborations are invaluable as businesses, individuals and organizations look to maximize partnerships in meeting the needs of local businesses.

“This newly formed partnership between SEMCIC and The First will allow the program to broaden its service scope, as it assists a well-known, well established commercial lender in making loans they traditionally wouldn’t be able to make based on their requirements and the client’s resource capacity,” says Annie McMillan, ADP Vice-President of Community Development and Secretary/Treasurer of SEMCIC.

For more information on these and other opportunities, contact Annie McMillan at the Area Development Partnership at 601.296.7500 or visit www.theADP.com.