Here is today's summary of economic development news, a free service of the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama, representing Alabama's private sector investment in economic development. If you enjoy NewsFlash, thank an
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Officials from Alabama and a global company based in Italy are embracing the history of the Tuskegee Airmen as part of the effort to land an Air Force contract called a "generational game-changer."
Leonardo DRS, American subsidiary of Italian jet-maker Leonardo, chose Moton Field in Macon County for a proposed plant to build the next combat jet trainer for the U.S. Air Force.
That was
announced in March. Since then, company officials and Alabama recruiters have worked to build the case for Leonardo DRS, which is bidding against Boeing and Lockheed Martin for the contract.
'Minnie Van': Redesigned Alabama-built Odyssey makes memorable debut
The latest transformation of the Alabama-made Honda Odyssey is turning heads. The redesigned, 2018 edition of the top-selling minivan hit dealer lots this summer and is already earning high marks from reviewers for its performance, technology and other new and improved features.
Adding to the buzz, Honda also teamed up with Disney-ABC to create a pink and white polka dot version of the vehicle, complete with mouse ears, a big bow, and appropriately dubbed the Minnie Van.
The one-of-a-kind, display-only model was on display at a Disney fan expo in July, and it was part of a campaign to introduce the 2018 Odyssey to families across the U.S.
ADECA Director Kenneth W. Boswell today celebrated eight Alabama graduates of the Delta Leadership Institute (DLI) who will collaborate with the Delta Regional Authority's leadership team to continue helping create jobs, build communities, and improve lives across the Mississippi River Delta region and the Black Belt of Alabama. A graduation ceremony was held in Kentucky.
Governor Kay Ivey was selected in 2017 as the DRA States' Co-chairwoman, and she praised the local leadership focus in the class.
"I am so proud of these outstanding leaders for taking the time to complete the Delta Leadership Institute," Ivey said. "Success begins at the local level and it is great to see such dedicated public servants learning new skills, which they will use to help their communities grow. Alabama is only strong because of our strong leadership at the local level. I pledge to do all that I can to support these local leaders in any way I can."