FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BALDWIN RANKED #1

IN SOUTH CENTRAL REGION FOR

BEST SMALL COMMUNITY FOR QUALITY OF LIFE

By: Bizjournals.com

Contact: Lance LaCour, 251-947-2445

American City Business Journals (ACBJ) on June 27, 2005 ranked Baldwin County #1 in the South Central Region for Counties that offer a less expensive, more relaxed alternative for Quality of Life in non-metropolitan Communities. ACBJ identified the most desirable havens in 13 different sections or regions of America from the far West to New England. Baldwin rated Number 1 in the South Central Region, which comprises Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma and Tennessee. The top 10 South Central Counties included Franklin and Boyle Counties in Kentucky, six Counties in Oklahoma, and Lee County, Mississippi overall.

ACBJ used 20 statistical indicators to rate living conditions. Critical factors that influenced the rating include: affluence, college degrees, short commuting time, economic diversity and the availability of affordable housing.

“We are really honored to be ranked so highly”, noted Lance LaCour, President & CEO of the Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance. “Quality of Life is our #1 business recruitment asset.” Frank Burt, Chairman of Economic Development and Civic Affairs for the Baldwin County Commission remarked, “The Baldwin County Commission appreciates this ranking and acknowledges what more people are learning about Baldwin County – we have a great quality of life and will continue to support initiatives and programs to improve our quality of life.”

The Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance (the Alliance) is a private economic development corporation whose mission is to implement an economic development program that promotes an improved quality of life for the residents of Baldwin County. The Alliance’s leadership is appointed by the five Chambers of Commerce in Baldwin County. Over the last ten years, the Alliance has facilitated the creation of over 5,500 jobs and $300 million in capital investment in Baldwin County.