Governor Robert Bentley on Monday will join CSX executives, other elected leaders and economic developers to formally announce Alabama’s first and only CSX Select Site designation.

CSX’s Select Site program reviews the most capable manufacturing and distribution development properties along the CSX network that can rapidly utilize freight rail service. The site in Macon County is 296 acres that will allow the Macon County Economic Development Authority to compete for jobs in the area.

The news conference will take place at 11:00 a.m.

Governor Robert Bentley on Wednesday will hold a news conference in the State Capitol to discuss Alabama’s upcoming state sales tax holiday for severe weather preparedness items. The Governor will also recognize Severe Weather Awareness Week throughout the state of Alabama.

Beginning at 12:01 a.m.

Tuskegee, Ala. – A group of long time Macon County business owners held a news conference today to speak about the negative effect Victoryland’s 2 year closure has had on the overall business climate in the county. The pari-mutuel racing and e-bingo gaming facility re-opened just before Christmas of 2012 at a much smaller capacity.

“My family and I have operated Thomas Hardware for over 30 years. We did ok when the dog track came in, and we really took off once they brought in the bingo,” Brent Thomas said. “We’re off over 30% on our business, and I’ve put my son in charge and basically retired because we can’t afford to pay both of us.”

While Victoryland had a large hotel and banquet facility before it closed to avoid raids in 2010, many visitors chose to stay at local hotels and eat at local businesses. The absence of tourists has affected local businesses such as Taliaferro’s (pronounced “Tolliver’s) restaurant and The Floral Park Motel.