Tornado recovery boosting Ala. economy
San Antonio (Texas) Express (via Associated Press) – June 28
…A study released this week found that cleanup and rebuilding in 2011 should pump around $2.6 billion into the state economy, with the majority coming from insurance claims and federal assistance. Though economic indicators and unemployment took an initial hit with the state unemployment rate increasing last month, the University of Alabama Center for Business and Economic Research report anticipates the gains should far outweigh the early losses. The recovery activities will generate enough revenue to cover damage-induced losses to state finances, as well as the state spending for cleanup if assumptions on losses and spending hold, author Samuel Addy wrote…Reconstruction is anticipated to generate gains of up to $2.9 billion, or 1.6 percent, statewide and create more than 51,700 jobs…
UA athletes, coaches step up to volunteer
Tuscaloosa News – June 28
Almost immediately after Tuscaloosa was struck by a catastrophic tornado on April 27, University of Alabama athletes mobilized to offer assistance. A quick look at some of their efforts…
Tornado had emotional impact on Tide athletes
Tuscaloosa News – June 28
…These days it’s Tinker who appears to have the right things to say. He quotes Bible scripture — Luke 8, on this particular day — and feels a different sense of purpose. He’s been encouraged by luminaries and strangers alike. Among those who have stood out to him include a nameless stranger who recognized him while he was attending the Southeastern Conference Baseball Tournament in Hoover, and former Alabama star running back and NFL Most Valuable Player Shaun Alexander…
Views differ on use of seat belts on school buses
The (Harrisburg, Pa.) Patriot News – June 28
…An Alabama study released last year concluded that seat belts would save the life of about one child every eight years. The retired University of Alabama professor who led the study said riding in a school bus is six to eight times safer than riding with a parent…The Alabama study cited the cost of seat belts as a negative, saying they cost about $11,000 to $15,000 per bus. The authors argued that the money would be better spent making conditions safer for students as they get on and off school buses…