[Electrical Porpoise]

Anyone heard about the Tanker deal being reversed. I was talking to my father on the phone and it cut out but I am pretty sure he said he just got an email saying that.

[sandebr00]

I am sorry to be the bearer of bad news...

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/06/18/america/Boeing-Tanker-Fight.php

[Electrical Porpoise]

PDF file on ruling
Link (http://mobilebaytimes.com/gao_1_.pdf)

[Musicisright]

What the hell?!?

[Shawn35816]

When you have the likes of Lou Dobbs filling the American "robot" peoples minds with what he has, what did we expect? It is a shame.

[OCA REP]

I like this picture.
http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/mm108/timothychase/dtmobile.jpg

I like the angle of that photo too. Previous pictures I have seen made the tower look shorter and thicker. This particular angle makes it look a lot taller to me...

[10101000]

Wow this is like a slap in the face!

[Musicisright]

Muskavon, you were right. Sad day.

[Port_of_Bama]

:previous: yeah sad but not an official ruling, I still have hope. They said they will annouce it on the 19th so i`m hoping that on the 19th they will go ahead with the contract.

[sandebr00]

On a more positive note, the Downtown Mobile Alliance issued its monthly newsletter. It includes a rendering of the courtyard that is being built as part of the renovation of the Kress Building. Here is a link:

http://downtownmobile.org/images/news/may_08_e_newsletter.pdf

It also indicates that the AmSouth Building is for sale. Maybe someone who is willing to invest in it will purchase it.

Also, don't forget that the meeting to vote on the new zoning ordinance for SpringHill is tomorrow, if you can make it.

[Electrical Porpoise]

It also indicates that the AmSouth Building is for sale. Maybe someone who is willing to invest in it will purchase it.

If someone bought that thing and tore it down I would be the happiest man on earth.

Here are some video reactions from earlier regarding the tanker.

Video (http://blog.al.com/live/2008/06/boeing_wins_tanker_protest.html)

[NitekKetin]

Perhaps NG-EADS will procede to use their Brookley complex as a site for COMMERCIAL aircraft assembly.

[Muskavon]

Perhaps NG-EADS will procede to use their Brookley complex as a site for COMMERCIAL aircraft assembly.

That's the one positive thing I keep in the back of my mind as a real possibility over time no matter what happens in tanker politics. I think the Airbus folks are determined long-term to get a foothold in the States to assemble and get more market share from Western Hemisphere airlines. And you'd have to think all the research and preliminary investment considering Mobile...that is their ground zero site to do it tanker or no tanker. I don't know how much longer that would be to see it move forward and realize noticable effects on all of us, but I hold out hope that may be the ultimate plan driving all of this: the tanker was a foothold on a bigger plan.

[BlessedMobile]

Let's remember that the GAO found there to be flaws in the process of awarding the contract which does not sound like they were fact altering but rather procedural. If the Air Force chooses to use the same criteria which chose the KC-45 then Boeing will HAVE TO offer a larger comparable aircraft. We did not lose the contract but have to win it AGAIN....something Southerners have long had to do when it comes to economic development. Think of it this way, Airbus is to Boeing what Toyota is to GM...the giant killer. Look at what has happened to American automakers once the better and more innovative foreign car companies got their foot squarely into our market. Airbus will do the same on the world scene when they get their American plant up and running. Tanker or not Airbus is coming to Mobile. Mobile still WINS! Even the new Air Force Chief of Staff has spoken of the KC-45 as the better of the two tankers. This will take a while to happen but I am confident that the KC-45 tanker will be built in Mobile.

[bystander1]

I've always thought of Boeing like the American automakers too, too use to doing things the old way and when someone comes out with something better, instead of improving themselves, they cry foul or want a 'do over'.

I'm still glad the Montgomery County Commission joined in passing a resolution giving their full support for the Brookley site in Mobile.

[Muskavon]

I agree with the automaker comparison. I'll have to admit to a point that has been made elsewhere, that Airbus is what it is now by the subsidies and political wills of countries that wanted to compete with Boeing (not exactly the path of true capitalist upstarts). And that may be an indirect reason Boeing has no true US competition today to bid this project. But we are where we are in history. Either the two companies compete on a level field motivating one to outperform the other in efficiency and quality...or one will become a fat, lazy, underperforming disaster like Ford or GM in the 80's. It doesn't take much imagination to figure out which comapny is heading down that path. So maybe Airbus, assembling in Mobile, will one day become as ubiquitous or blurred with "American" as all the Japanese plants assembling autos all over the South while Boeing (and the domestic autos) continue finding ways to ship off jobs. It's hard for the common person to see the difference and you already see that when it comes to Toyota vs. Ford for instance.

But I really wanted to post the other obvious things to look out for/participate in tomorrow:

1) Alabama Motorsports Park Public Hearing tomorrow:

Public comments on the proposed Alabama Motorsports Park, A Dale Earnhardt Jr. Speedway, off Interstate 65, near Industrial Parkway and Kali Oka Roads, will be heard June 19 at 7 p.m. at the Saraland Civic Center, 716 Mae St., hosted by the Army Corps of Engineers.

http://www.alabamamotorsportspark.com/media/releases/release_052808.html

2) Spring Hill Zoning Thing:

Spring Hill property owners and developers may soon have a choice — use a new zoning plan or the city's existing code.

A proposed "optional" zoning plan will go before the Mobile Planning Commission for approval Thursday at 2 p.m.

"At this point, the optional plan is the best way we can satisfy what the Village of Spring Hill is trying to do, and satisfy the people who had problems with making things mandatory," said Gina Gregory, the Mobile City Council member for District 7, which includes Spring Hill. "That doesn't mean people will be 100 percent satisfied."

http://www.al.com/business/press-register/index.ssf?/base/business/12135213786400.xml&coll=3


Let's see some good news folks!!!!

[sandebr00]

There is an interesting article in the Seattle Post today concerning the Air Force Tanker controversy. Arguably the most prominent military analyst today, Loren Thompson, who also wrote a few weeks ago that there were problems with the original bidding, is quoted as opining that, although the Air Force likely would rebid the contract, "[t]here is a real likelihood that Northrop and EADS will come back again and prevail. Boeing has won this round, but the war goes on." Another analyst confirmed that the GAO ruling "does not guarantee Boeing a victory. It is still an uphill battle, but it does get Boeing back into the batter's box." So, to reiterate what others on this forum have stated, Mobile and EADS are still in this competition, and may ultimately prevail on the merits. Incidentally, the article also provides a useful comparison between the two planes (showing the differences in costs, size, fuel capacity, number of passengers that can be carried, etc.). Be warned, however, that the article also contains statements from Washington and Kansas's congressional delegations, so you will have to read about all of the gloating there.

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/business/367462_tanker19.html

[sandebr00]

To reiterate Muskavon's point in an earlier post, the Planning Commission is meeting today to vote on the proposed zoning ordinance submitted by the Village of Springhill. The meeting is set for 2:00 in the Government Plaza.

Some of the property owners are still voicing opposition to it, and unless the on-the-street parking requirement passes, the building where the CVS is set to be built may not build according to the ordinance. This, in turn, may ruin all that the Village is attempting to accomplish. Also, a multi-million dollar development -- that is going to be built according to the proposed zoning ordinance -- is set to begin if the ordinance passes. So, please try to attend today's meeting and show your support!

[10101000]

The story was here on New 2 Louisiana last night, they had more positive things to say then Mob town news cast. I believe that this will go through, just another bump in the road.

[elb401]

Hey I don't think the tanker will come here. sorry to be so down about it. The politics are just against it now. the only way I see it is if there is a split contract. but now, I do think Airbus wants to get into the dollar zone really bad and it has such a good relationship with alabama and Mobile.I think we could see a A330 line here in the future. They are already preparing the A330 line in france to do other aircraft work.

by the way Riley and Sam Jones said that the incentive package is still open to them. it is based on the number of jobs.....not on getting the contract. and if they open a A330 line here before the new contract is award....guess what....by american government standards airbus would be an AMERICAN MANUFACTURER (well at least according to trade court rulings). hey that can help get some of the noise off NG-EADS's back.

[10101000]

Outlook Remains Optimistic
We respect the GAO’s work in analyzing the Air Force's tanker acquisition process. We continue to believe that Northrop Grumman offered the most modern and capable tanker for our men and women in uniform.

Our outlook is still positive. Mobile County will continue to move forward to build the best plane for our servicemen and women. We are confident that ultimately the KC-45 will be built in Mobile.

The support for this project has been overwhelming. It’s been heartwarming to see the community spirit and excitement generated by the KC-45 project. More than 20,000 of you have signed the petition on this website in support of the KC-45.

Our delegation on Capitol Hill has diligently defended the KC-45. Led by Senators Richard Shelby and Jeff Sessions and Representatives Jo Bonner and Jeff Miller, our congressional team has been spreading the truth about the KC-45 – that it will not send jobs overseas but will be built in Mobile and supported by 230 suppliers in 49 states, generating 48,000 American jobs.

In addition, dozens of local governmental bodies and leaders have signed resolutions of support for the KC-45 (click here for full list). We have received support from virtually every county, city, and chamber of commerce in Lower Alabama, Northwest Florida and Coastal Mississippi. All along the Gulf Coast realize that the KC-45 project will create an aerospace corridor benefiting the entire region.

We must continue our vigilant defense of the KC-45. The selection process has been the most fair and transparent in U.S. history. Any further delay harms both the American taxpayer and the American war fighter.
We encourage people to reach out to their representatives in Congress and to continue to visit www.keepourtanker.com to stay engaged and informed.

Thank you for your support.

[10101000]

http://www.nbc15online.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=1d44ea50-bf39-4fa7-a69b-ba5270eb20ef

(MOBILE, Ala.) June 19 -- Race tracks, shopping, restaurants, it's all coming to north Mobile County.

The Dale Earnhardt Junior Speedway will be the centerpiece of this proposed facility.

Thursday night you can learn more about it during an informal open house.

The public will get a chance to view the site plans for the $24 million motorsports and entertainment complex.

The open house starts at 7 p.m. at the Saraland Civic Center

[CottonCity251]

I still believe the contract is ours...just when and how long. Boeing has now destroyed a good relationship with the Airforce for prolonging this contract. The GAO's decision in Boeing favor doesn't change what the Airforce wants and that is the KC-45 that Airbus has to offer. I don't expect this to last very long seeing the aircraft have already been evaluated...possibly before the year's end but no more than 8 months. I don't think Boeing has time to submit another plane nor will the Airforce allow them the opportunity to do so. No need to worry because Mobile will keep on pushing with the commitment of EADS in the community.




In other news, Waterstreet Landing is officially dead.

Mobile riverfront condo project dead
Posted by By Kathy Jumper, Real Estate Editor June 19, 2008 9:37 AM

The planned 241-unit Water Street Landing condominium and retail project at the foot of Government Street has been canceled, and the L.A.-based owners of the property have put it up for sale, according to local attorneys and Realtors.

The 1.6 acres is listed for $2.25 million, according Grubb & Ellis/Peebles & Cameron. Millennium LLC purchased it for $1.8 million about two years ago from CSX.

"We have had some interest from hotel developers,'' John Peebles said. The owners tore down an old CSX office after removing the asbestos in the building, he said. "We're optimistic it will sell.''

[10101000]

Well, this could be a good thing, maybe someone else could design a better looking building.

[spookyapp]

Waterfront amphitheater anyone? Come on! We don't need a huge condo RIGHT on the waterfront! Might as well put up a huge cinder block wall between downtown and the water. Anyone who has that money for a condo will buy one 2 blocks from the water anyways. Make the waterfront for the public. Make the green space next to the Exploreum mixed use retail/park. A 100% park right on Govt St? Way too dangerous! Come on Mobile, let's get this right!

[alexjon]

We must continue our vigilant defense of the KC-45. The selection process has been the most fair and transparent in U.S. history. Any further delay harms both the American taxpayer and the American war fighter.
We encourage people to reach out to their representatives in Congress and to continue to visit www.keepourtanker.com to stay engaged and informed.

Thank you for your support.

The GAO found the idea that the process was fair and transparent to be contrary to fact. The main reason EADS got the contract was political obligation and a vendetta on the part of several big name lobbyists (currently being retained by a certain candidate). The viability of the plane had no bearing in this since Boeing's most recent board was shady and irresponsible to the point of near-criminal proportions. Of course, I ultimately would love to see the contract going to a more economic depressed area and it would certainly be a benefit to the gulf region, but that does not change that the whole process was a sham.

NG-EADS need to go back and do this right. If they indeed have the right plane (regardless of it being unsuited for most combat and landing situations without certain accomodation), then this should be a cakewalk.

Boeing has changed dramatically since it moved from humble roots in the PacNW to Chicago power-brokering. Although Boeing's tanker was the only truly American tanker in the running, it was certainly not being promoted by principled people.

I think this new Airbus plane will give the Europeans a fabulous in to American business and will make Mobile a place where it isn't all about "Made in the USA" but rather "Made with Pride".

[MobileLSUboy2005]

Waterfront amphitheater anyone? Come on! We don't need a huge condo RIGHT on the waterfront! Might as well put up a huge cinder block wall between downtown and the water. Anyone who has that money for a condo will buy one 2 blocks from the water anyways. Make the waterfront for the public. Make the green space next to the Exploreum mixed use retail/park. A 100% park right on Govt St? Way too dangerous! Come on Mobile, let's get this right!

I like the idea of having public space on the waterfront, but who's gonna pay $2.2million and not make any money back for it? If they put anything there, I agree, lets make sure it looks better than Waterstreet Landing did...That just looked like an uglier version of the condos down at the Gulf!

[10101000]

I like the idea of having public space on the waterfront, but who's gonna pay $2.2million and not make any money back for it? If they put anything there, I agree, lets make sure it looks better than Waterstreet Landing did...That just looked like an uglier version of the condos down at the Gulf!

I would love to have a public space on the waterfront, something like a pier and shops and restaurants.

[The 251]

If Boeing loses again and then they protest again, this contract could take 2 more years to even break ground, costing taxpayers millions more, and possibly even taking lives. I think the Air Force should ignore the GAO recomendations and procede with the contract. Yes the funding will probably get revoked, but you dont know unless you try. If it does, THEN re-bid the contract. But I dont know... thats just my opinion

[phoenixboi08]

:hell: :hell: :hell: What infuriates me the most about the whole tanker contract is the fact that it seems that they're just screaming "unfair" and trying to find ANYTHING to prove that they are right. It's a sad day when one company can bully another just because it is naturalized. I mean it's easy to argue that it's dangerous to use military aircraft built by a foreign company, but when it comes down to it, when a war is being fought, it's for the welfare of EVERYONE anyways. I mean look where we are now. In Iraq, I'm not going to go into this here...but if WE weren't there who would be? And I mean IT'S JUST FRANCE for crying out loud! Jeeze Boeing grow up!
And what ANGERS me the most is that this is not the FREAKING first time this happened! Remember when Boeing got in trouble a few years ago...? It was because they had someone on the inside leaking information about Airbus to win the KC-767 tankers! They are a company that will resort to ANYTHING to get their way. :hell: :hell: :hell:

[alexjon]

It's the GAO. They NEVER EVER take the side of companies protesting against government entities.

If you'd just read the docs, you'd see.

[Scottybo]

I think the GAO is just telling the Air Force to look over the proposals one more time to make sure they have the right plane because of the cost difference. Really no harm done if the Air Force just sticks with it. The longer it takes to make another decision, the longer it will take to get their planes in the air.

[The 251]

here is an email i got yesterday morning that i think is interesting. i took the day off or i would have posted it then..

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: Celebrate Mobile [mailto:newsletter@cityofmobile.org]
Sent: Thursday, June 19, 2008 11:12 AM
To: Jimmy Lyons
Subject: Show Your Support!

http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa19/vickshow/PORT%20PHOTOS/untitled.jpg

Show Your Support for Mobile!

Greetings!

So many of you have asked, "What can I do to help Mobile keep the Air Force Refueling Tanker Contract?" The answer is simple: Show your support for Northrop Grumman and the local, state and federal leaders who are fighting hard to keep the tanker projects and the American jobs that come with it. Two ways to do that are by participating in the Celebrate Mobile events on June 19 & 20.

On Thursday, June 19 at 7 p.m., there will be a Mobile In Motion performance at the Saenger Theatre (6 S. Joachim Street). Mobile In Motion is a thrilling dance troupe that performs routines about the prosperity that Mobile has enjoyed recently. It also showcases other things that make our city great such as Mardi Gras, BayFest, AfricaTown, Mobile Bay, Bellingrath Gardens, and much more. Tickets are still available at the Saenger Box Office and in the Mayor's Office on the 10th Floor of Government Plaza.

Then on Friday, June 20, the Celebrate Mobile parade will roll through the streets of downtown. The parade starts at 6:30 p.m. A parade map and route description are below. We want to show the world that our City supports the businesses that have decided to call Mobile home. Elected officials and industry leaders will join several carnival associations for our city's first-ever June Mardi Gras Parade. We encourage you to make signs showing your support for Mobile, Northrop Grumman and the rest of our corporate citizens.

Thank you for showing support for our great city, and I look forward to seeing you at these two wonderful events.

Sincerely,

http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa19/vickshow/PORT%20PHOTOS/untitled2.jpg

Samuel L. Jones
Mayor






Parade Route

http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa19/vickshow/PORT%20PHOTOS/untitled3.jpg

Friday, June 20 - 6:30 p.m.
The parade will start at Canal and Claiborne and travel west on Canal. It will then turn up Washington and head east down Government. From there, it will turn north at Conception, east on St. Francis and then south on Royal. It will end by heading west on Church then south past the Civic Center on Claiborne.







WHAT IT MEANS TO US

http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa19/vickshow/PORT%20PHOTOS/untitled4.jpg

1,500 direct jobs in the Mobile, Alabama area

48,000 jobs nationwide

49 states seeing work from the deal

179 new tankers to be built at Brookley Field in Mobile




Forward email
This email was sent to jlyons@asdd.com, by newsletter@cityofmobile.org
City of Mobile Alabama | rr | mobile | AL | 36602

[OCA REP]

If Boeing loses again and then they protest again, this contract could take 2 more years to even break ground, costing taxpayers millions more, and possibly even taking lives.

... and the DRAMA award goes to...

I think some on this forum have not really read the GAO report. The report does a pretty good job of explaining why the selection process was flawed; NOT THE PLANE THAT WAS SELECTED.

I am not happy that this has happened to Mobile. I love this state and want all of us to flourish. But at the same time, I do not want a contract of this magnitude handed to Airbus just because the selection process appears to have been tailored to their product.

This is definetly going to be an interesting story to follow and one that politics is going to play a MAJOR role in... Please keep your seatbelts fastened!!!

[SouthSky]

I think Mobile will get an Airbus factory at some point.

[10101000]

The GAO found the idea that the process was fair and transparent to be contrary to fact. The main reason EADS got the contract was political obligation and a vendetta on the part of several big name lobbyists (currently being retained by a certain candidate). The viability of the plane had no bearing in this since Boeing's most recent board was shady and irresponsible to the point of near-criminal proportions. Of course, I ultimately would love to see the contract going to a more economic depressed area and it would certainly be a benefit to the gulf region, but that does not change that the whole process was a sham.

NG-EADS need to go back and do this right. If they indeed have the right plane (regardless of it being unsuited for most combat and landing situations without certain accomodation), then this should be a cakewalk.

Boeing has changed dramatically since it moved from humble roots in the PacNW to Chicago power-brokering. Although Boeing's tanker was the only truly American tanker in the running, it was certainly not being promoted by principled people.

I think this new Airbus plane will give the Europeans a fabulous in to American business and will make Mobile a place where it isn't all about "Made in the USA" but rather "Made with Pride".

OK, I understand your side, however Mobile is not an economic depressed area. The only reason change had not taken place in the past decade is that most people of Mobile did not want it. Mobile is a wealthy city, if you have never been to Mobile you would not know it. Keep your uneducated comments to yourself!

[elb401]

I am getting bored with this talk. can we change the topic? please.

I saw were there was a house being built in the detonti area. looks like more single family homes are going to be built there.

[alexjon]

OK, I understand your side, however Mobile is not an economic depressed area. The only reason change had not taken place in the past decade is that most people of Mobile did not want it. Mobile is a wealthy city, if you have never been to Mobile you would not know it. Keep your uneducated comments to yourself!

The median and per capita incomes of the area indicate otherwise. Why do you think your city is fighting so hard for it? For Seattle, it's about the tradition of Boeing work (which has dwindled since they moved HQ to Chicago, funny that), but for Mobile, it's how many jobs it will produce and economic impact.

[10101000]

Like I said I see your point, however WHO CARES about the per capita figures. From what us Mobilians know, it has been a wealthy place. This is a new generation for our city! Yes it does produce jobs and yes this will grow our city, but we are not economically depressed.

[alexjon]

Well in that case, you guys are fine without John McCain's fabulous gift to his lobbyists and French benefactors :)

[10101000]

Well in that case, you guys are fine without John McCain's fabulous gift to his lobbyists and French benefactors :)

Spare us!

[alexjon]

I am being supportive!

Big city folks just act supportive in a really mean-sounding way. Emphasis on -sounding.

[10101000]

Ok, I believe you----

[elb401]

Can we drop this.....alexjon thanks for your "supportive" mean comments but lets drop this were it is. Let the big multinational companies and political people fight it out.....we don't have to on this forum. Mobile let's hope for the best and hope that NG/EADS gets this contract in the end.

[10101000]

Amen, well said.

[OCA REP]

Can we drop this.....alexjon thanks for your "supportive" mean comments but lets drop this were it is. Let the big multinational companies and political people fight it out.....we don't have to on this forum. Mobile let's hope for the best and hope that NG/EADS gets this contract in the end.

I second this motion... Hope no one is opposed to this!

[Port_of_Bama]

:hell: :hell: :hell: What infuriates me the most about the whole tanker contract is the fact that it seems that they're just screaming "unfair" and trying to find ANYTHING to prove that they are right. It's a sad day when one company can bully another just because it is naturalized. I mean it's easy to argue that it's dangerous to use military aircraft built by a foreign company, but when it comes down to it, when a war is being fought, it's for the welfare of EVERYONE anyways. I mean look where we are now. In Iraq, I'm not going to go into this here...but if WE weren't there who would be? And I mean IT'S JUST FRANCE for crying out loud! Jeeze Boeing grow up!
And what ANGERS me the most is that this is not the FREAKING first time this happened! Remember when Boeing got in trouble a few years ago...? It was because they had someone on the inside leaking information about Airbus to win the KC-767 tankers! They are a company that will resort to ANYTHING to get their way. :hell: :hell: :hell:

I know you guys want to put a stop to this but I want to put my input in

:previous: I was thinking the same thing, didn`t Austal (an Australian company ) beat Lockhead Martin( American company) for a 500 mill dollar contract ( Independince)for the Navy I saw that thing floating downtown yesterday. Lockhead Martin didn`t cry about it they sucked it up and kept moving. If i`m not mistakin NG in Mississippi won a contract with the Navy as well righ ?

Boeing is saying it is a threat to national security if NG builds the tanker. well it should be a threat for Austal and NG to build combat ships for the Navy. It `sonly a tanker , if national security is what they are concerned about shoulden`t that apply to the Navy as well ? !

[10101000]

Whats up POB, have not heard from you in a while, hows it going?

[Port_of_Bama]

Whats up POB, have not heard from you in a while, hows it going?


just working man I been looking on but not commenting, I see that guy from seattle talking big trash it`s all good. I don`t care what he says it`s all about money !!!!

[Del]

Gee, and here I was thinking the Alabama economy, looking brighter though it may be, couldn't hold a candle to the Pacific Northwest.

[Port_of_Bama]

Gee, and here I was thinking the Alabama economy, looking brighter though it may be, couldn't hold a candle to the Pacific Northwest.


lol yeah we are econimicaly depressed right ?

[10101000]

I know, cannot even afford to drive our phat SUV's on the road!

[Port_of_Bama]

I know, cannot even afford to drive our phat SUV's on the road!


not to mention 13,000 plus millionaire families. I believe that new money you have to work , old money you don`t have to work and that is exactly what Mobile is old money.

[The 251]

... and the DRAMA award goes to...

I think some on this forum have not really read the GAO report. The report does a pretty good job of explaining why the selection process was flawed; NOT THE PLANE THAT WAS SELECTED.

I am not happy that this has happened to Mobile. I love this state and want all of us to flourish. But at the same time, I do not want a contract of this magnitude handed to Airbus just because the selection process appears to have been tailored to their product.

This is definetly going to be an interesting story to follow and one that politics is going to play a MAJOR role in... Please keep your seatbelts fastened!!!

actually what I was saying is that the tankers that the air force are using now are very old and are a hazard to our men in uniform. it had nothing to do with Boeing or NG/EADS

[SouthSky]

Seattle is just pissed Mobile is #1 rainiest city in the US.

I think in order for Boeing to take this contract in the end would be a transition to a 777-based model. (Can they even change what they are offering in that time frame?) That is a much more modern plane and is considerably more comparable to the A330.

Seattle smells like burnt coffee grinds anyway. :D

[alexjon]

Seattle is just pissed Mobile is #1 rainiest city in the US.

I think in order for Boeing to take this contract in the end would be a transition to a 777-based model. (Can they even change what they are offering in that time frame?) That is a much more modern plane and is considerably more comparable to the A330.

Seattle smells like burnt coffee grinds anyway. :D

Boeing is merely operating off of the previous judgement from some time ago that ruled for the 767 over the 330. I don't know why they aren't going to move toward equity by choosing the 777 since that would make it easy for them to balance their argument and, well, move away from the politidrama that caused the loss in the first place.

And Seattle smells like Orca pee and snowmelt-- get it right!

[NitekKetin]

In much lighter news

Clothing Forever21 is leasing a rather large space in Bel Air Mall. The space, located between Limited Too and the new Footlocker, is comprised of a section of the former Woolworth's store. This more than 12,000 square foot store will also make use of Woolworth's south exterior entrance.

[BlessedMobile]

First, I am glad that our waterfront won't be blocked by some condos. It's like those nasty highrises at the beach...the view is ONLY for those in the buildings.
Second, I understand that we will be getting a new hotel on the site of the old bank building being demolished downtown. Likely, a middle-of-the-road Hyatt. Same developer as the new Hampton. groundbreaking near years end.
Third, I'm disappointed that the GAO said the Air Force did a lousy job of handling the tanker bid but we haven't lost it and will probably get all or some of the tankers. If we even get part of them it will be enough to get Airbus and NG working on the project and out looking for more work. Boeing did what we would have done and it appears they had merit to their argument. After reviewing the comparison between the 767 and A330 it didn't seem possible that they could actually be COMPARED to each other..they don't.
Fourth, I can see why our friend from Seattle would call this an economically depressed area. The media lumps everything on the La, Ms. and Al. coast in the same miserable boat as New Orleans. I have been to Seattle and it is nice but, like us to them, they have no idea who we are or how we think. Mobile is in the early stages of a boom.

[Electrical Porpoise]

I can see why our friend from Seattle would call this an economically depressed area.People are ignorant. As long as we and the city are prospering, all while keeping my home near Orange Beach a nice secret...well, I will be extremely happy.

[SouthSky]

Boeing is merely operating off of the previous judgement from some time ago that ruled for the 767 over the 330.

If they were basing it off the previous contract awarding then they were mistaken. Did Boeing even have competition when they overbid and bribed people for the job?


Off the subject of Boeing...
The Air Force could actually push this forward without the GAO's approval. However, it would still take Congress funding it.

[OCA REP]

Did Boeing even have competition when they overbid and bribed people for the job?

No, they did not. Sorta like Airbus did not have competition (according to the GAO) when they bid on a USAF tanker project that was specifically designed around their A330.

I agree about the Air Force just going ahead and buying a tanker right away and not listening to the GAO. And it would be even sweeter if that tanker was a B777. That bird would look HOT in Air Force gray.

[alexjon]

If they were basing it off the previous contract awarding then they were mistaken. Did Boeing even have competition when they overbid and bribed people for the job?

The competition was NG-EADS/Airbus for roughly the same plane with about the same criticisms popping up, just reversed.

For this competition, they turned Airbus' weaknesses into strengths and Boeing's strengths into weaknesses. It's funny that John McCain's lobbyists worked on this personally, the same McCain who is blatantly against both Boeing and the general constituency of Senator Patty Murray. Vendettas! I love it.

[Port_of_Bama]

I was downtown yesterday and the St. Francis street condo rendering is still up with no development going on, what is the hold up on this project ?

[Port_of_Bama]

:previous: First, I am glad that our waterfront won't be blocked by some condos. It's like those nasty highrises at the beach...the view is ONLY for those in the buildings.
Second, I understand that we will be getting a new hotel on the site of the old bank building being demolished downtown. Likely, a middle-of-the-road Hyatt. Same developer as the new Hampton. groundbreaking near years end.
Third, I'm disappointed that the GAO said the Air Force did a lousy job of handling the tanker bid but we haven't lost it and will probably get all or some of the tankers. If we even get part of them it will be enough to get Airbus and NG working on the project and out looking for more work. Boeing did what we would have done and it appears they had merit to their argument. After reviewing the comparison between the 767 and A330 it didn't seem possible that they could actually be COMPARED to each other..they don't.
Fourth, I can see why our friend from Seattle would call this an economically depressed area. The media lumps everything on the La, Ms. and Al. coast in the same miserable boat as New Orleans. I have been to Seattle and it is nice but, like us to them, they have no idea who we are or how we think. Mobile is in the early stages of a boom.


Yeah Seattle is nice and I was impressed with there extremely low murder rate for a city of that size I believe they had 26 in 2007 and they have one of the most imppresive sky lines to me outside of NYC and Chicago. While in Mobile we were a little bit over 40 I bleieve, Seattle is nice but Mobile is better.

[SouthSky]

No, they did not. Sorta like Airbus did not have competition (according to the GAO) when they bid on a USAF tanker project that was specifically designed around their A330.

I agree about the Air Force just going ahead and buying a tanker right away and not listening to the GAO. And it would be even sweeter if that tanker was a B777. That bird would look HOT in Air Force gray.

The GAO never said anything that you are writing here. Besides, an Airbus A330 DOES look hot in that "Air Force gray." However, the 777 US military tanker hasn't even been built. Weirdly, the AF picked a plane that has been built AND is modern over a plane that has been built BUT is based on an old design.

The competition was NG-EADS/Airbus for roughly the same plane with about the same criticisms popping up, just reversed.

For this competition, they turned Airbus' weaknesses into strengths and Boeing's strengths into weaknesses. It's funny that John McCain's lobbyists worked on this personally, the same McCain who is blatantly against both Boeing and the general constituency of Senator Patty Murray. Vendettas! I love it.

Patty Murray does suck. ;)

Same criticisms? I haven't been reading the reports of widespread corruption in this deal.

On the issue of McCain... why would you think he is for the tanker? Because his constituency is for it. Ahem... (the South). Vendettas my behind...

[phoenixboi08]

You know...it's funny! if we (the Seattle and Mobile people on this forum) would just take the time to stop arguing...we'd realize HOW MUCH our cities have in common...I mean REALLY it's almost too funny.
1. Both Major Ports
2. Both have Expanding cruise industries
3. Both have a history and planned expansion in the aviation industry
...maybe we should be HELPING each other out, instead of trying to steal the glory! Just my opinion....

[alexjon]

Patty Murray does suck. ;)

Same criticisms? I haven't been reading the reports of widespread corruption in this deal.

On the issue of McCain... why would you think he is for the tanker? Because his constituency is for it. Ahem... (the South). Vendettas my behind...

There doesn't have to be corruption. The same things that disqualified Airbus last time are its strengths now for some reason. It has been entirely too clear that capital costs associated with making air force installations compatible with it would suck up enough money to make the monetary differences between the two planes irrelevant. And let's not forget which plane is more combat-ready.

McCain went ahead and redirected a lot of the money freed up after the revocation of the last contract into his own pet projects.

And yes, he has and continues to compete against Senator Murray whenever he gets a chance to. Last time he had no in to the selection process, but this time he did.

For what it's worth, why would McCain favor the south? He raised hundreds of thousands of more dollars here than in most of his appearances outside of the big cities of the south.

[pkp]

First, I am glad that our waterfront won't be blocked by some condos. It's like those nasty highrises at the beach...the view is ONLY for those in the buildings.
Second, I understand that we will be getting a new hotel on the site of the old bank building being demolished downtown. Likely, a middle-of-the-road Hyatt. Same developer as the new Hampton. groundbreaking near years end.
Third, I'm disappointed that the GAO said the Air Force did a lousy job of handling the tanker bid but we haven't lost it and will probably get all or some of the tankers. If we even get part of them it will be enough to get Airbus and NG working on the project and out looking for more work. Boeing did what we would have done and it appears they had merit to their argument. After reviewing the comparison between the 767 and A330 it didn't seem possible that they could actually be COMPARED to each other..they don't.
Fourth, I can see why our friend from Seattle would call this an economically depressed area. The media lumps everything on the La, Ms. and Al. coast in the same miserable boat as New Orleans. I have been to Seattle and it is nice but, like us to them, they have no idea who we are or how we think. Mobile is in the early stages of a boom.

On the hotel - I have seen the plans. It is actually going to face Royal Street (directly across from the Commerce Building). The bank site will be a parking lot, which is a total waste. I would rather see a garage than a 60 car lot. The hotel and Banktrust will share the lot. As far as I know, it is an Extended Stay hotel - I am not sure if that is the actual brand, or just the type of hotel it will be.

The old CSX site - we really need to improve access to the river by building the long ago proposed bridge across Water St. (from the foot of Church St.). I would like to see some sort of retail development on the CSX site. Maybe like a smaller, more upscale Riverwalk in New Orleans. This would mostly be to draw more people to the water to enjoy our much underused riverside park. There could potentially be a tie-in to the cruise terminal and Maritime Museum, which will help if we get a new ship. Speaking of that, a cop friend of mine has been spending some time escorting cruise executives around the Mobile area - something is up!

Also, it looks like the neutral ground work on the bring back Broad project is in full swing. I would love to see some renderings of the finished product if anyone has them!

[CottonCity251]

On the hotel - I have seen the plans. It is actually going to face Royal Street (directly across from the Commerce Building). The bank site will be a parking lot, which is a total waste. I would rather see a garage than a 60 car lot. The hotel and Banktrust will share the lot. As far as I know, it is an Extended Stay hotel - I am not sure if that is the actual brand, or just the type of hotel it will be.

About how many stories is this hotel?

I agree with you on retail for the old CSX site.

[bayou15]

Im Back! Had to get a new laptop. Always remember, Don't leave ure spit cup next to the keyboard, cause the juice will fry it!!! This board has really :whatthefuck:


1)I hope the city buys the csx land, and put its beloved Mardis Gras Park there!

Comm.Nodine is trying again for condo highrise/retail/ parking garage for the old courthouse land. it was noted in the press register last week.

2) The Admiral Semmes hotel expansion should geaux public soon.(13-18stories).

3) Wish the city could atleast turn the lights on dome of the civic center. Pretty much an eyesore compared to the rest of downtown.

Asked my neighbor a few weeks back, which is a long time employee for da state docks, Told me the land that touches the convention center to the north will stay the way it is, a container dock:brickwall:


Y'all have a great day! GEAUX TIGAHS!

[SouthSky]

Speaking of that, a cop friend of mine has been spending some time escorting cruise executives around the Mobile area - something is up!

Good to hear... know any names of the companies? :)

[Electrical Porpoise]

For what it's worth, why would McCain favor the south? He raised hundreds of thousands of more dollars here than in most of his appearances outside of the big cities of the south.It is obvious from reading your post in the Seattle section that you are an close minded and ignorant, and quite frankly nobody cares about your blind thoughts regarding political propaganda.

[The 251]

It is obvious from reading your post in the Seattle section that you are an close minded and ignorant, and quite frankly nobody cares about your blind thoughts regarding political propaganda.

hahaaa! I saw that too and I completely agree with you

[sandebr00]

I was downtown yesterday and the St. Francis street condo rendering is still up with no development going on, what is the hold up on this project ?


There was an article in Sunday's newspaper that discussed the 250 St. Francis Street condos. To date, 14 of the units have presold, but the developer is still a "couple" of units shy of the number needed to meet the lending requirements.

http://www.al.com/business/press-register/index.ssf?/base/business/1214126241173610.xml&coll=3

[SouthSky]

Article from Der Speigel about the tanker situation:
http://www.spiegel.de/img/0,1020,78647,00.gif

EADS Puts a Brave Face on Tanker Setback

By Dinah Deckstein and Cordula Meyer (cordula_meyer@spiegel.de)
The planned splash into the US defense market by European planemaker EADS has been thrown into doubt following a scathing report by the US Congressional watchdog -- but the company is putting on a brave face.



http://www.spiegel.de/img/0,1020,1216937,00.jpg (http://www.spiegel.de/international/business/0,1518,grossbild-1216936-561438,00.html)
An image of the Airbus refueling tanker. The plans to supply the US Air Force with the aircraft have been put in jeopardy.


Once a week, usually on Fridays, EADS employees in Munich receive a high-level visit. That’s when CEO Louis Gallois, 64, takes a regularly scheduled flight to the German headquarters of Europe’s largest aerospace and defense company so he can keep tabs on everything in his office on the southern outskirts of the city. The Frenchman makes these short trips to demonstrate that the employees in Germany are just as important as their colleagues at other Airbus and EADS locations in Paris and Toulouse.
Late last week Gallois made another lightning visit to Bavaria, despite the fact that many EADS employees were expecting the top manager to cancel his trip at the last minute.
Just a few hours beforehand, news had broken in the US that a congressional watchdog, the Government Accountability Office (GAO), had ruled that “significant errors” had been made in awarding a lucrative defense contract for 179 aerial refueling tankers to a consortium consisting of US defense giant Northrop Grumman and EADS subsidiary Airbus. In their 69-page non-binding decision, the auditing arm of the US government even recommended that the US Air Force reopen major areas of the bidding process.

In such a situation, other business leaders would have retreated to the company headquarters with their closest advisors and planned a counteroffensive. But Gallois, whose diplomatic flair is even praised by archrival Boeing, made a decidedly relaxed impression.
In his office on the 5th floor of the main administrative building in Ottobrunn, Germany, the ascetic-looking Frenchman sat with a friendly smile on his face last Friday and patiently answered questions -- as if he had nothing more important to do. He said he regretted that he could not provide a clear assessment for the time being because he and his colleagues had not been provided with the GAO’s final report.
“We are still under contract and are convinced that our aircraft are the best,” Gallois reminded those present. He said that US government auditors had not evaluated the quality of the proposed aircraft, but had only examined whether bidding rules had been respected.
Presumably, the multilingual Frenchman has only revealed the true extent of his disappointment in the boardroom. Top executives there are already debating whether the company should participate if it comes to a new round of bidding -- at the risk of coming up empty-handed in the end.
What at first glance appears to be merely the latest episode in a long series of mishaps, misfortunes and missed opportunities at Europe’s showpiece corporation could actually shake the company more deeply than the wiring problems plaguing its A380 superjumbo. EADS and Airbus managers intended to do more than just break into the US defense market. The Europeans were planning to use a new plant in Mobile, Alabama to solve one of their most serious problems, namely their dependency on the ailing dollar, which is the key global currency for the sale of aircraft.
In addition to the fuel tankers, there are plans to use the US facility -- which has not yet been built -- to assemble cargo aircraft and, perhaps at a later date, other long-range jets. The US location would make it possible to pursue these projects without the usual annoying protests from the governments of the countries that partly own EADS and Airbus: Germany, France and Spain. So the mood in the company was positively euphoric when the US Air Force made the surprise announcement in late February that it had decided to award the Europeans and their US partner Northrop Grumman with the coveted contract to replace its aging fleet of tanker aircraft.

RELATED SPIEGEL ONLINE LINKS

The World from Berlin: The 'Political Dimension' Improves Boeing's Chances (http://www.spiegel.de/international/business/0,1518,560952,00.html) (06/20/2008)
US Air Force Tanker Contract: A Big Win for Boeing -- a Big Loss for EADS (http://www.spiegel.de/international/business/0,1518,560674,00.html) (06/19/2008)"If you can make it there, you can make it everywhere!" Airbus CEO Tom Enders said in late April, borrowing a line from Frank Sinatra as he geared up for the big breakthrough in the US defense market. He and his colleagues were already dreaming of a range of follow-up contracts around the world.
Amid the general spirit of rejoicing, EADS and Airbus managers seemingly forgot embarrassing setbacks such as the wiring fiasco on the A380 and the late delivery of the A400M military transport aircraft. Even the investigation into 17 high-ranking managers -- on suspicions of insider trading before the production delays of the A380 were announced -- faded into the background for the time being.
But virtually overnight Gallois and his crew have been hauled back to earth by a reality that is far more sobering than many of them would like to admit. Anyone who takes the time to carefully read the list of objections by the US congressional watchdog will realize that it is hardly imaginable that the next US administration under Barack Obama or John McCain will again select the Europeans and their US partners Northrop Grumman as the sole suppliers of their flying fueling stations.
The US Air Force now has 60 days to respond to the GAO's complaints. The German government assumes that the US Department of Defense will attempt to sweep aside all reservations. Reopening the competition for the tanker aircraft contract would delay delivery by months, if not years.
Officially, the German government is keeping a low profile. The issue is a delicate one, particularly so since Boeing announced a few days ago that it would compete in Brussels for contracts connected with the European satellite navigation system Galileo -- even though, after years of intensive political wrangling, it looks as if the contracts have essentially already been awarded.


http://www.spiegel.de/img/0,1020,1193362,00.jpg (http://www.spiegel.de/international/business/0,1518,grossbild-1193361-561438,00.html)
EADS boss Louis Gallois has been trying to make a relaxed impression since the news of the GAO broke.


When it comes to the bidding for the US tanker aircraft, Boeing feels that it has been treated unfairly right from the beginning -- and it says that the findings of the government auditors have confirmed this. For instance, according to the original specifications, the maximum possible discharge capacity of the tanking hose supposedly had no influence on the evaluation of the bid. However, it was precisely this criterion that helped clinch the contract for EADS.
In addition, according to analyses by the GAO, procurement officials at the Pentagon let Boeing believe for a long time that it had fulfilled certain requirements, although in fact they had growing doubts. An even more serious allegation is that Air Force experts used a faulty calculating system. This showed that the EADS fleet would be cheaper to operate over the long term than the competing model from Boeing. It now appears, however, that Boeing would probably produce the aircraft with the more cost-effective life cycle.
Now it’s up to the Air Force to explain whether the Europeans were given preferential treatment, and if so, why this occurred. “We haven’t yet heard the Air Force’s response to the GAO decision,” says Gallois.
One thing is certain: The tanker deal is destined to go down in US history as the major defense project with the most ignominious track record. Back in 2003, the coveted contract, which at first went to Boeing, had to be reopened for competition after it emerged that the Seattle-based aircraft manufacturer had enticed a worker at the Pentagon with the prospect of an attractive job in the company. If it turns out that in the second round of bidding a number of tricks were used to give the winner a helping hand, it would deal a serious blow not only to the US government, but also to EADS and especially Northrop Grumman, which is highly dependent upon contracts with the Pentagon.



http://www.spiegel.de/img/0,1020,1220962,00.jpg (http://www.spiegel.de/international/business/0,1518,grossbild-1220961-561438,00.html) http://www.spiegel.de/static/sys/v8/icons/ic_lupe.gif (http://www.spiegel.de/international/business/0,1518,grossbild-1220961-561438,00.html)


DER SPIEGEL
Arch rivals EADS and Boeing at a glance


At this point in time, it is totally unclear what will happen with the planned new assembly facility in Alabama. The city government in Mobile had planned a large cornerstone ceremony on the premises destined to be the new plant for next week. This has now been postponed for the time being.
Even local politicians have expressed doubts over whether the new plant will ever be built and generate, as announced, some 2,000 new jobs: “I cannot believe that in the most highly scrutinized procurement in the history of the United States Air Force the GAO found so many errors,” said Alabama Senator Richard Shelby.
In addition to EADS and Airbus employees, the pilots of the US Air Force must be bitterly disappointed. They will probably have to continue flying far into the next decade with aircraft that date back to the middle of the Cold War.
“Without a new tanker,” warned General Arthur Lichte, the commander of the Air Mobility Command, “this capability -- and our nation's ability to project power and humanitarian assistance in the future -- is in significant jeopardy."


By contrast, Airbus workers at the company's plant in Dresden, eastern Germany, took the bad news from the US last week in stride. Their plant specializes in converting passenger aircraft into freight planes. Recently, the first prototype of the Airbus tanker with the production number D-1 was nearly completed here. Over the coming months, there are plans to build another three aircraft as demo jets for production later on in Alabama.
Up until now, the workers in Dresden have remained convinced that everything will go ahead as scheduled. If, however, there is a change in plans, the D-1 certainly won’t end up in a museum. Sooner or later, it will be converted for use as a normal freight aircraft.
The demand for such jets is currently enormous because manufacturers can’t deliver the aircraft as fast as the orders roll in. Perhaps instead of flying from trouble spot to trouble spot to refuel fighters for the US Air Force, the EADS model will one day fly between major trading centers around the globe -- with a load of toys, fruit or exotic animals on board.

[Port_of_Bama]

There was an article in Sunday's newspaper that discussed the 250 St. Francis Street condos. To date, 14 of the units have presold, but the developer is still a "couple" of units shy of the number needed to meet the lending requirements.

http://www.al.com/business/press-register/index.ssf?/base/business/1214126241173610.xml&coll=3


Ok so by the end of the year they should meet that goal and hopefuly ground work will break in early 09.

I`m all for condo and retail for the old courthouse site, and the Mardi Gra park should be on the river in stead.

When I was driving through the Wallace tunnel yeasterday I realize that it offered one of the best views of the skyline while approaching the tunnel .I wish someone would capture it but could be to dangerous.

[Port_of_Bama]

It is obvious from reading your post in the Seattle section that you are an close minded and ignorant, and quite frankly nobody cares about your blind thoughts regarding political propaganda.


Yeah last I checked he made a thread that had 975 views with ne replies !

[alexjon]

It is obvious from reading your post in the Seattle section that you are an close minded and ignorant, and quite frankly nobody cares about your blind thoughts regarding political propaganda.

Close-minded and ignorant? Come on, now! No need for unsupported personal attacks. I'm basing my assumptions on per capita income, the GDPs of the respective cities, poverty levels and growth scales. And as far as nobody caring, people have attempted to refute my opinion on the matter with opinions of their own, dragging us into circles. In the Seattle forum? Yeah, post counts basically enlighten the situation with that one.

If you have a problem with what I post or what I say, please feel free to send me a private message or simply ask me to tone it down. I'm civil enough to draw down, but I shouldn't be expected to when the reactions are sometimes hyperbole compared to my initial comment.

So now that we've cleared that up, here we go, back on topic:

[10101000]

Alright, I have heard enough! Please, please can we all just get along!!! This is not our arena anyway. I have heard about restaurant coming to Bass Pro!

[sandebr00]

This post is a little late, but for those who have not heard, the Mobile Planning Commission passed unanimously the optional zoning code for the Village of Springhill. The new regulation now goes to the City Council for adoption, which should take approximately 6 weeks. The Mitchell Company, which is developing the property on which the CVS will be located (on the corner of Old Shell and McGregor) may choose to opt out of the optional ordinance, and set the building back with a parking lot facing the street, rather than using on the street parking.

http://www.al.com/news/press-register/index.ssf?/base/news/1213953406202790.xml&coll=3

Also, I was reading the Village of Springhill's webpage, and the President of the organization testified at the Planning Commission meeting that an unnamed developer wants to build an art gallery with condominiums on the second floor somewhere in the overlay district for the Village of Springhill.

http://thevillageofspringhill.com/charrette/

[10101000]

An art gallery would be awesome!

[Electrical Porpoise]

I live on the corner of Old Shell and McGregor. And why I love the designs and think it would be great to look like downtown Fairhope, the traffic concern is more than legitimate. I can't see how this would really work traffic wise.

With that being said, bring it on! ;)

[10101000]

I am just ready to see it in action.

[sandebr00]

I live in that general area as well, behind St. Ignatius Church, and at first I, too, questioned how the on-the-street parking would work. But, as I understand it, the City is going to take a case-by-case approach to it, and if it won't work for the particular tract of land, it won't be implemented in front of the affected area. So, for instance, on-the-street parking may work for CVS, which could build a parking lot behind its building, but it may not work in front of Pollman's, which may not have the property to build a parking lot behind its building. But, as you said, we'll have to see what happens, and how it works!

[Electrical Porpoise]

I live in that general area as well, behind St. Ignatius Church, and at first I, too, questioned how the on-the-street parking would work. But, as I understand it, the City is going to take a case-by-case approach to it, and if it won't work for the particular tract of land, it won't be implemented in front of the affected area. So, for instance, on-the-street parking may work for CVS, which could build a parking lot behind its building, but it may not work in front of Pollman's, which may not have the property to build a parking lot behind its building. But, as you said, we'll have to see what happens, and how it works!
That is good news and makes a lot more sense. I really do hope this comes about because as far as adding something to the city I think this could be bigger than a lot of people realize. I'll admit, I have not read a lot of the articles (mostly pictures), but what are the plans for dealing with Auburn's land that extends from The Cedars down to Spring Hill Swim Club. Is that state owned?

And now I really want a Pollman's Po-Boy. :)

[sandebr00]

That is good news and makes a lot more sense. I really do hope this comes about because as far as adding something to the city I think this could be bigger than a lot of people realize. I'll admit, I have not read a lot of the articles (mostly pictures), but what are the plans for dealing with Auburn's land that extends from The Cedars down to Spring Hill Swim Club. Is that state owned?

And now I really want a Pollman's Po-Boy. :)


That's a good question about the Auburn land. I know that the Village of Springhill's website shows that area being developed into single family residences and condos, but I don't know who owns the property. Like you, my best guess is that the State owns it, but that's only speculation on my part. And I agree about wanting a poboy from Pollmans. I actually just moved back to Mobile from ATL this past Saturday, and that will be one of my first places to visit!

[bayou15]

These won't happen for Mobile;

1) Tanker Project
2) DaLE Jr. raceway park
3) Another skyscraper for downtown
4) A big time (SOLD OUT)concert at civic center:haha:

sooo...what about this issue?



http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=708948

[pkp]

Cruise execs from all of the major lines in town. On another Carnival ship = I went on the Holiday in July of 2007. And even then, the Cruise Director told the whole boat Carnival had already agreed to either another or a larger ship. Its a POS, but the Holiday is the best performing boat they have. I would like to see a better Carnival boat and then another line come in - RC, NCL, or Celebrity. I am going on a two week European Celebrity cruise this fall and am looking forward to seeing how the quality is - then going on a NCL next Spring out of NOLA. Both of them are better lines than Carnival, but with the shear size of its fleet, Carnival is always going to be the first in a port.

[Scottybo]

The thought crossed my mind earlier today, and I wondered if the Air Force deliberately made errors in the choosing of a winning bidder, just to force the GAO to find these mistakes and send them back. Maybe there are still some Boeing guys in there making noise and hoping for at least half of the contract.

Just a thought.

[SouthSky]

These won't happen for Mobile;

1) Tanker Project
2) DaLE Jr. raceway park
3) Another skyscraper for downtown
4) A big time (SOLD OUT)concert at civic center:haha:


You must have lived in Mobile for a long time. :D :previous:

1. If not a piece of the tanker project, I think you will see some kind of new Airbus presence outside of the engineering center.

2. I think this is 60-40 chance of happening. It could be one of those speculative property deals to get land values up.

3. You WILL see this.

4. I hope (along with Electrical Porpoise) the thing will be torn down and a new, modern development like this will be put downtown.

5. Our cruising WILL be enhanced.

6. The container terminal will be the biggest boost to our area in retrospect 15 years from now.

The thought crossed my mind earlier today, and I wondered if the Air Force deliberately made errors in the choosing of a winning bidder, just to force the GAO to find these mistakes and send them back. Maybe there are still some Boeing guys in there making noise and hoping for at least half of the contract.

Just a thought.

I wouldn't put it past our government. :haha:

[Electrical Porpoise]

4. I hope (along with Electrical Porpoise) the thing will be torn down and a new, modern development like this will be put downtown.

I feel like a certain mayor, but I do want to see that nasty thing rebuilt as a nice dome with a bar district near it. :)

I also would love to see a new public sports complex in the city. I grew up playing in all the public facilities, and while they are nice a lot are in bad areas and you cant add many outdoor facilities because it would be dangerous to use after dark.

I would enjoy a Mobile Tennis Center type facility, but maybe with one football field, a few basketball courts (one indoor), and a couple of softball and baseball fields. The city could centralize a lot of these games and lease it out to other leagues - a lot of young kids deserve better.

And instead of wasting money on other sports parks they could re-do them and make them a regular park with a track or something like that, and it would lower costs.

[10101000]

Has anybody heard of anything NEW going to happening here???

[10101000]

Just in case you missed this in the P.R.


Los Angeles artist Aaron Wolken was busily painting sweet-home Alabama murals on a 25-yard long archery range — one of hundreds of workers who spent last week getting the 140,000-square-foot Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World store ready for a late August opening.

The familiar red-and-yellow sign with the huge, open-mouthed green bass has been an eye-catching sight for travelers on Interstate 10 for several months as the two-story structure takes shape in Spanish Fort Town Center near the intersection of Interstate 10 and U.S. 90/98.

Construction at the 200-acre mixed-use development was preceded by almost three years of on-again, off-again site work by the developer, Cypress Equities, which is based in Dallas.

Bass Pro will be the first anchor store to open. It will be followed by a 105,000-square-foot JC Penney store; a 98,000-square-foot Kohl's store; and a Circuit City, according to Josh Burmeister of Staubach Retail in Mobile, the leasing agent for the center.

The 800,000-square-foot commercial center will also include restaurants and more retailers. The Spanish Fort Town Center apartments are well under way, and two hotels, Courtyard by Marriott and Fairfield Inn & Suites, will be built there as well, he said.

The new Bass store covers an area equivalent to 3cm HALF football fields, according to Larry Whiteley, a spokesman at Bass headquarters in Springfield, Mo. There are 47 re tail stores around the country, and typically, a store attracts 3 million people a year, he said.

"We're all about the outdoors and conservation," said Stephanie Parrish, promotions manager for the new store. "Everybody that works here has a passion for hunting and fishing." Parrish said she enjoys sport fishing and used to work for a boat dealer.

A hard-hat tour of the store revealed a Disneyland-type adventure for the outdoors lover. There are deer tracks on the concrete flooring, a target-shooting arcade for all ages, six waterfalls, fake trees equipped with hunting stands, trophy birds suspended from the entry ceilings, and fish tanks and a touch pond just waiting to be filled.

A full-time diver has been hired to feed the marine life and clean the aquariums and ponds, including a 21,000-gallon freshwater tank.

Bass's Islamorada Fish Company restaurant features a 12,500-gallon, saltwater fish tank and seats 211 inside and 82 outside.

A few yards away from the construction site, a massive white tent has 24-hour guards. It's dubbed the "taxidermy tent" and is packed with every native animal imaginable — if it swims, flies, crawls, slithers or walks, it's under the tent. Soon the animal menagerie will be on display throughout the store. Don't worry about touching; nothing can bite.

Construction started last September, and July 9 is the target date to have employees begin stocking the shelves, Parrish said. The store will employ 400 to 450 full- and part-time workers, and as many as 2,000 applied for the jobs, she said.

Each store is different, not just in size, but in its wildlife and outdoor focus. For example, the ponds and aquariums will be stocked with marine life native to Alabama. The murals depict landscapes found in Alabama countrysides or its coast, such as beaches, rivers, creeks, forests, farms and even Mobile's Delta, according to workers.

Many of the Bass-hired artists have toured the area, and some of the fishing shacks and displays in the store are copied from scenes along the Causeway and Mobile Bay, according to Parrish.

"We like to say the store is part museum, conservation, education and entertainment center," she said.

/cut/5/cPhotos by BILL STARLING/Staff PhotographerLos Angeles-based artist Aaron Wolken works on a mural in the archery range at the Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World store under construction at

Spanish Fort Town Center near the intersection of Interstate 10 and U.S. 90/98. He is painting landscapes found in Alabama. The exterior of the store, set to open in August, is shown at top right. Workers are busy on interior finishes, including nature-themed murals on most of the store walls.

/cut/4/cBILL STARLING/ Staff PhotographerThe Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World in Spanish Fort is approximately the length of 31/2 football fields. Interstate 10 can be seen from the second story. The store, scheduled to open in August, is the Spanish Fort Town Center's first anchor store. "We're all about the outdoors and conservation," said Stephanie Parrish, promotions manager for the new store. "Everybody that works here has a passion for hunting and fishing."

[phoenixboi08]

Okay...I know that this is going to be an abrupt shift in topic...so brace yourself for the brick wall.....HERE IT IS: What's the name of the developer (the person and/or company) for the Hampton Hotel downtown?

And WHY on Earth do people hate the Civic Center so much?
We happen to be lucky to have it...

[10101000]

Thank you!!! I feel the same way!

[CottonCity251]

Okay...I know that this is going to be an abrupt shift in topic...so brace yourself for the brick wall.....HERE IT IS: What's the name of the developer (the person and/or company) for the Hampton Hotel downtown?

And WHY on Earth do people hate the Civic Center so much?
We happen to be lucky to have it...

Developer Mike Cowart of Birmingham.

[NitekKetin]

Okay...I know that this is going to be an abrupt shift in topic...so brace yourself for the brick wall.....HERE IT IS: What's the name of the developer (the person and/or company) for the Hampton Hotel downtown?

And WHY on Earth do people hate the Civic Center so much?
We happen to be lucky to have it...

The Civic Center gets flack because the Convention Center and Mitchell Center have rendered this gaudy hulk nearly irrelevant.

[The 251]

right now it has to be the ugliest thing in the city. if they took down those retarded looking light poles on the top, and painted the dome white it would be 500 times better ;)

[Muskavon]

[QUOTE=bayou15;3631874]These won't happen for Mobile;

1) Tanker Project
2) DaLE Jr. raceway park
3) Another skyscraper for downtown
4) A big time (SOLD OUT)concert at civic center:haha:


Just curious of your conclusion on #2. Would your doubt be the environmental issues? A feeling the developers aren't on the up and up? Something else you've heard? I'm just trying to get a handle on the doubt regarding this in particular.

[Port_of_Bama]

:previous: I disagree with everything except for # 4. That thing needs a serious makeover.


I heared about a Jazz restaurant and bar being built on the Casue way next to the battle ship.

I was reading the paper today and it mentioned that if the Airforce rebid the contract. A law would be passed to prevent any foreign companies from doing work with the governmant. So assume that Auastal will no longer be able to build Cobamt ships for the Navy, nor Northrup Grunman in Mississippi who just recently won a billion dollar contract with the Navy.


Wouldn`t this ruin forign relations and I know that there are otherforeign comapnies outside of the ones mentioned that would be effected by this. I believd that the contract will be split or it will be givin to NG, the second bid will be a different story all together. The onlything that I am realy disappoited about is that we didn`t have enough political backing, the Fact is NG has the better plane but they are in Boeing`s territory.

I am also sick of peopel actring like this the end of Mobile and the city will crumble and die, the NG contract would certainly speed up the growth in Mobile but will we the city fall in ruins ? I don`t think so NG had 72 sites out of 32 states( includidng Seattle)to choose were they will build the tanker. The chose Mobile we had a 1 out of 72 chances on getting the tanker and now it`s 1 nad 2. If it would have gone any other way such as Ng choosing another city we would care less about who won the tanker to be honest. We came to far 3 yrs and now this. NG is head quarterd in LA, and EADS Virginia where was the political backing from those areas,and the 48,000 other jobs tha would be made in other states including our own. We only had about 2 or three senators from our stste backing us. The keep out tanker ads were nice but not agressive enough.

Mobile still has a chance Idon`t care what anyone says.