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What Protesters Were Saying Before Donald Trump’s University of Alabama Speech

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Birmingham Times
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Former presidential candidate Beto O'Rourke of Texas speaks next to former U.S. Sen. Doug Jones of Alabama at a rally called "Tide Against Trump" in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, held in opposition to President Donald Trump's appearance on campus on Thursday, May 1. (Kimberly Chandler, AP)

By Williesha Morris | wmorris@al.com

Towards the end of former Sen. Doug Jones’ speech to hundreds of protesters in a Tuscaloosa park, a motorcyclist circled the area and revved the engine loudly for several moments.

Jones, talking to a crowd gathered to oppose President Donald Trump’s visit to the University of Alabama, turned briefly and quipped, “Whatever he’s riding now, it’s going to go up in price.”

Jones was one of many speakers at Snow Hinton Park at the invite of the UA College Democrats. Two other protests, hosted by pro-Palestinian and pro-worker’s groups, occurred nearby Thursday.

“This is not a protest. This is a movement,” Jones said. “It is movements that changed this country. Whether it was a Civil Rights movement, whether it was an anti-war movement,” Jones said. “It’s a movement. And guess what? It started on college campuses.”

Jones told AL.com, “I’m gonna stay in the fight. There’s too much going on. There’s too much trouble in America. There’s too much trouble in Alabama. I’m gonna stay in the fight, one way or another.” He would not say whether he’s considering running for office again.

“Trump ought not to come speak on our campus,” Christian Martin, with the College Democrats, told AL.com before the event.

People supporting and opposing the president flocked to the college town Thursday night, joining floods of others arriving for commencement ceremonies.

Trump is the first president to give a speech during the University of Alabama’s graduation weekend. The university plans to issue about 6,000 degrees to students over the weekend.

Protestors gather at a rally called “Tide Against Trump” in Tuscaloosa, Ala., held in opposition to President Donald Trump’s appearance on campus on Thursday, May 1. (Kimberly Chandler, AP)

Sen. Tommy Tuberville, who took Jones’ seat in 2021 and is considering a run for governor, later got a shoutout from Trump in Coleman Coliseum.

Cassandra Simon, a social work professor who is suing the university and Gov. Kay Ivey over state law banning some DEI programs, encouraged protesters to stand up for civil rights. In his second term, Trump has issued executive orders banning diversity, equity and inclusion from federal programs.

“I am afraid,” she said. “It’s okay to be afraid. Don’t let that fear immobilize you.”

Kyle Sweetser, a former Republican who now is running for Tuberville’s seat, said Trump used to be pro-choice and supported the LGBTQ community.

“He could have worked with both parties to get things done,” Sweetser said. “He could have fought to bust up monopolies, protect our national parks and improve the lives of everyday Americans,” he said.

“But he didn’t do any of that. Instead, Trump cozied up to a select few billionaires, abused his power and betraying the trust of his most loyal followers, the people of Alabama, the people of the South,” Sweetser said. ”His authoritarian regime is anti-Constitution. They think that they are above the law. They harass and threaten the press.”

Former Texas Rep. Beto O’Rourke spoke to the crowd before Jones, opening with, “So this is what Alabama looks like. F—– beautiful.”

O’Rourke credited university students for “taking action themselves” instead of “anticipating orders from Washington, D.C.”

“Alabama has long inspired Texas, long inspired the country,” O’Rourke said. “We have a profoundly powerful relationship. Too many people in this country understand the threat that Donald Trump poses to us individually, to our families, to our community or Constitution, to our country.”

Addressing students, O’Rourke said graduation weekend should “all about you and the hard work and the effort and the success that you have earned.”

“This jackass is trying to make it all about him,” O’Rourke said while the crowd laughed and cheered.

Freddie and Rainer Clements drove two hours from Jacksonville to attend the protest.

“People in Washington have to understand we do know what’s going on, and this is how we feel,” Freddie Clements said. “One person on the internet is not much of an impact.”

Before the protest, Birmingham resident Beth Mulvey said the country is “such a mess.”

“It’s not surprising,” Mulvey said. She said Trump “was going to do all this stuff when he was running, and people voted him in. So here we are in the mess that was promised. We really need all the branches of government to stand up and do what they’re supposed to do.”

“We just wanted them to know that there are students at UA who do not want Trump’s presence here,” Omorose Emwanta, with UA Leftists & UA Students for Justice for Palestine, told AL.com. “Trump’s presidency represents so many negative things. Trump’s presidency has caused a great deal of stress and suffering in our lives.”

Conference Schedule for Birmingham Small Business Week May 4-May 10, 2025

By
Birmingham Times
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MONDAY, MAY 5

9 a.m. -1 p.m. Nonprofit Transformation – Impact and Intent

Location—INNOVATION DEPOT:1500 1st Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203

1:30 p.m. Lunch & Learn: Building a Talent-Driven Future: Workforce Develop.m.ent Strategies

Location—Virtual Event

2:45 p.m. Archibald & Woodrow’s Grand Opening – Ribbon Cutting &Torch Passing Ceremony

Location—830 1st Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203

5 p.m. BGM HOLD

Location—ALCOVE BIRMINGHa.m.: 1713 4th Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203

TUESDAY, MAY 6

2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Unlock New Business Opportunities: Innovating Commerce for Small Businesses

Location—TERRIFIC NEW THEATRE: 2112 5th Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203

5 p.m. – 9 p.m. Unlock Your Business Potential: Strategies for Growth & Success!

Location—AVENUE D EVENTS: 3008 4th Ave. S., Birmingham, AL 35233

WEDNESDAY, MAY 7

10:15 a.m. – 11 a.m.

  • Amplifying Your Business Through Media & PR
  • Funding & Access to Capital for Small Businesses
  • Leveraging AI & Automation for Business Success

11:05 a.m. – 11:50 a.m.

  • E-Commerce & Retail Growth Strategies
  • Mastering Business Contracts & Smart Licensing
  • Smart Scaling for Startups & Tech-Enabled Businesses

1:15 p.m. – 2 p.m.

  • Branding & Digital Marketing 101 for Creatives
  • Building Business Credit & Financial Readiness
  • Podcast Training for Business Owners

2:15 p.m. – 3 p.m.

  • The Business of Hospitality & Food Service
  • Women’s Roundtable: Leading, Thriving & Breaking Barriers
  • Government Contracting & Procurement Opportunities

3 p.m. The Youth Entrepreneur Pitch Competition (Ages 14 – 18)

Location—BIRMINGHa.m. CROSSPLEX: 2340 Crossplex Blvd., Birmingham, AL 35208

THURSDAY, MAY 8

12 p.m. – 2 p.m. Women in Business: Leading the Way to Opportunity

Location—FLORENTINE: 2101 2nd Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203

2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Market Place

Location—FLORENTINE: 2101 2nd Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203

FRIDAY, MAY 9

10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Doing Business in the City of Birmingham

Location—KRESS BUILDING: 301 19th St. N., Birmingham, AL 35203

5 p.m. – 10 p.m. Today’s Small Business, Tomorrow’s Legacy

Location—EVENT LOCATION: Event Address, Birmingham, AL 35203

SATURDAY, MAY 10

10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Black Men Buy Houses Summit

Location—INNOVATION DEPOT: 1500 1st Ave. N., Birmingham, AL 35203

FOR MORE INFO, VISIT WWW.BHMUP.COM

Woodfin: City Encouraged by Team Effort to Reduce Blighted Structures

By
Birmingham Times
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Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, flanked by representatives of several city departments, said the city’s targeted efforts to reduce the number of blighted houses in the city were encouraging and continuing to grow. (Sym Posey, The Birmingham Times)

By Sym Posey | The Birmingham Times

Joined by representatives of several city departments during the demolition of a house gutted by fire in the Smithfield community,  Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin on Wednesday said the city’s targeted efforts to reduce the number of blighted houses in the city were encouraging and continuing to grow.

So far, the city has completed demolition of 126 structures in 2025 and nearly 2,500 since 2018, city officials said.

“Neighborhood revitalization is our top priority,” Woodfin said. “The city is committed to removing blighted structures and enhancing public safety in our communities. City departments coordinate each week to target problem areas to ensure our efforts are effective in creating positive change in our neighborhoods.”

The mayor was joined by Birmingham Fire and Rescue Services, Birmingham Police, and the departments of the City Attorney; Planning, Engineering and Permits (PEP); and Public Works.

City Attorney Nicole King said there is a legal process that must take place related to the city’s demolition of private property. Structures are inspected, if posted for condemnation, the city must make efforts to contact the property owner, present to the Birmingham City Council for consideration, and then place the property on the list for demolition.

For example, 20 properties appeared on this week’s council agenda and were condemned for demolition, according to the city.

City officials said a weekly process is in place to rid neighborhoods of blighted, condemned structures in cases where the private property owner simply won’t maintain or demolish the structure. Through code enforcement efforts, the city also makes efforts to encourage private property owners to demolish condemned structures without additional city action.

The demolition cost is based on the square footage of the structure. The average cost is between $4,000 and $7,000 for a residential structure. That cost will typically be much higher for a larger, non-residential structure.

The city budgets for demolition of blighted structures each year. This year, the budget is $1.5 million.

In addition to demolition, the city’s current operating budget reserves more than $20 million for neighborhood revitalization including street resurfacing, sidewalks, traffic calming, and weed abatement, according to the city. Residents may report neighborhood concerns to 311. The city also identifies blighted properties on a daily basis through code enforcement.

City demolishes a house gutted by fire in the Smithfield community. (Sym Posey, The Birmingham Times)

Grounds: Coffee Shop May Be a Small Business, But it Has Big Plans for Birmingham

By
Birmingham Times
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Grounds coffee owners Tyler Hatcher (left) and Reggie Collier in the backspace of their shop, which houses a myriad paintings from local artists. (Reginald Allen, For the Birmingham Times)

By Ameera Steward | The Birmingham Times

From sweet coffee to sweet treats, Grounds is a coffee shop dedicated to boosting the city of Birmingham, as well as providing space for those in need.

Opened in 2023 by Reggie Collier and Tyler Hatcher, Grounds is a Black-owned establishment located at 2214 2nd Ave. N. Suite 100. It shares a space with basic, a sustainable clothing store.

“We had a lot of people telling us, ‘Birmingham doesn’t have enough third spaces—not home, not work, but a space where I can just come and be with my friends and make friends.’ And so that has really been the nature of our whole experience,” said 33-year-old Hatcher. “[We’re] creating a low-pressure environment where you can gather with like-minded people. … We’re grateful that we can fill that void.”

Collier, 32, added, “People feel like it’s a safe space. They feel comfortable there. It kind of feels like home, and I love that. … I also think [Grounds is] a good space for creatives. … Birmingham has a lot to offer, but we just didn’t see many spaces centered around our identities, so we made one.”

Grounds is now a key component of Birmingham Small Business Week (SBW), which will take place May 4–10, 2025. The annual gathering that began in 2020 as a modest three-virtual-event affair has blossomed into a six-day, 15-event that attracts major keynote speakers and provides invaluable educational and networking opportunities.

Ahead of SBW, Collier hosted a series of sessions, titled “Coffee and Conversations: The State of Small Business,” with Birmingham’s Office of Business Diversity and Opportunity (OBDO). One session was held in March and another in April, during which Grounds served coffee and pastry.

The importance of SBW, Collier said, “is bringing small business owners and leaders in the community together and really listening to each other, getting each other’s feedback—how do we make things better, how do we make Birmingham better?”

In regard to Grounds being chosen as a host, he added, “I’m just really honored that [the OBDO] reached out and was willing to give us this opportunity to partner with them and be their vendor for coffee. … I’m glad they continue to work with us on it.”

Grounds coffee owners Tyler Hatcher (left) and Reggie Collier inside their downtown Birmingham establishment. (Reginald Allen, for the Birmingham Times)

“Here We Are”

Collier, originally from Athens, Alabama, moved to Birmingham in 2016 to attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), where he studied psychology. He made the decision that school was not for him and took a full-time management position at Honeycreeper Chocolate, a recently closed chocolate shop located where Grounds currently operates.

As Honeycreeper prepared to shut its doors in September 2023, Collier was sitting with his coworkers before the official closing and thought about opening a coffee shop in the space because some past customers had recommended that the chocolatier add coffee to the establishment.

“We also had a desire to create a space that felt different than the other coffee shops we’ve been to, … one that was more reflective of our values and our community as Black and queer people,” Collier said. “We didn’t want it to be just about drinks and pastries, we wanted it to be about connection … and being really intentional about the products we carry and the ingredients we use.”

He added, “I just ran with it and didn’t know if it was ever going to actually come to fruition. It really was just an idea, and then I got a lot of support behind it—and here we are.”

Hatcher was born and raised in Birmingham. He grew up in Center Point until he was 8 years old, when he and his mom moved to the Chalkville/Trussville area. He graduated from Clay-Chalkville High School and, in 2009, he moved to Troy, Alabama, to attend Troy University, where he studied broadcast journalism with a focus on advertising. In 2012, Hatcher transferred to UAB to study communication management. He graduated in 2014 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Management.

Hatcher and Collier have been married for five years, having said their “I do’s” during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Neighborhood Living Room

Grounds coffee owners Tyler Hatcher (left) and Reggie Collier outside their downtown Birmingham establishment. (Reginald Allen, for the Birmingham Times)

Grounds officially opened in December 2023, and the couple has been doing a balancing act since that time. In addition to owning the coffee shop, Hatcher still works a full-time position within the financial services industry.

“I always kind of framed it in my mind that I will continue to do the traditional things. … I’ll continue to try to climb this career ladder,” said Hatcher, explaining that Collier handles the logistics for the coffee shop—inventory, staffing, scheduling, etc.

“This is our way of taking two parallel routes to our own financial freedom and our own security and ownership,” Hatcher continued. “It feels like [this] is a channel for us [to build] the life we want when the resources and traditional path were never really available.”

At the shop, Collier does a little bit of everything: “I’m the barista, the buyer. I’m the website person. I do pretty much all of it, with the exception [of] the marketing. … I don’t do too much of the social media. I will if I have to, but my role is mainly just running the day-to-day operations.”

Hatcher and Collier are not only seeking balance to build the life they want but also striving to consistently build community within the city of Birmingham by building partnerships and providing a safe haven for those in need.

Because they don’t roast their own coffee, Grounds partners with Cala—another local coffee shop located on Third Avenue—which provides them with coffee beans. In addition to coffee, Grounds sells greeting cards, vintage glassware, and other finds that Collier and Hatcher source themselves. The syrups they use are from a company called Pink House Alchemy, and Collier makes baked goods daily. Furthermore, they host events and pop-up shops with the motive of helping other marginalized communities and businesses.

“[Grounds] has proven that minority, … marginalized, and underrepresented people can build a business, and that everyone is welcome,” Hatcher said. “And if you’re looking for a new space, if you’re looking to make friends, if you’re feeling alone, … you can come into our [establishment] and you’re going to find somebody you can align with. … We’re not just a coffee shop. … It’s a space that we are actively always building for the community of Birmingham.

“It is really special to not only have built a brand [in] Birmingham, … [a brand that people seem to] love in my hometown, but also to be on one of the same streets that was impactful for the Civil Rights Movement. … It’s a special feeling to really see the progression of what Birmingham is today from where our raw history started, … and we feel grateful to be able to build that legacy here.”

Collier added, “I really appreciate the fact that we’re being recognized [by the community]. I’ve heard several people call us the ‘Neighborhood Living Room’ … and a really inclusive space where everyone’s welcome. [Grounds is] just a place where you can come and hang out and not have to worry about whatever stress you [have] in your day. … We love that.”

Grounds is located at 2214 2nd Ave. N. Ste. 100, Birmingham, AL 35203. To place a to-go order or shop for merch, visit their website https://groundsbhm.com/

Grounds coffee co-owner Reggie Collier inside the downtown Birmingham establishment. (Reginald Allen, for the Birmingham Times)

Local Entrepreneurs Get Boost from Birmingham’s Small Business Week 

By
Birmingham Times
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Since winning the Birmingham Small Business Week pitch competition in 2023, Emondre Johnson has opened a brick-and-mortar establishment that offers dog daycare, overnight boarding and professional grooming. (Brandon Tolbert Photography, Provided)

By Barnett Wright | The Birmingham Times

Emondre Johnson, owner of The Bark Park in Birmingham, knew he made the right decision to open his own business, but it wasn’t until he won the 2023 Birmingham Small Business Week Pitch Competition that he got an additional boost.

“Winning the pitch competition set the trajectory for where I am now,” Johnson, 26, said. “It allowed me to see that I did have something good and that I can prosper in this lane. Seeing how the city supported me and being able to share my story alongside that just gave it more clarity and more reason that I’m in the right space.”

Next week the annual Birmingham Small Business Week kicks off May 4-10 with 15 events, attracting keynote speakers with educational and networking opportunities and the all-important pitch competitions have become a springboard for local entrepreneurs.

It began in 2020 as a three-virtual-event affair and now has more than a dozen specialized sessions on economic mobility and community development that showcase how businesses can strengthen their local economies.

“Small businesses are the dynamic engines propelling Birmingham’s economic vitality, fostering job creation, stimulating innovation, and contributing significantly to the city’s overall prosperity and sustainable growth,” said Cornell Welsey, Director, Birmingham’s Dept of Innovation and Economic Opportunity.

Since winning the competition Johnson has opened a brick and mortar on Montevallo Road that offers dog daycare, overnight boarding, professional grooming, and pet photography and a private indoor dog park.

Emondre Johnson has opened a brick-and-mortar establishment that offers dog daycare, overnight boarding and professional grooming. (Brandon Tolbert Photography, Provided)

“I feel like I’ve been preparing for this my whole life,” he told The Birmingham Times. “I grew up in a single parent household until about the age of 13 … I grew up in East Lake and my mom kept me in a lot of extracurricular activities to keep me away from what was going on outside of our doors. One of those things I grew fond of was the library and I grew a huge interest for reading.”

The business owner said he had a particular interest in reptiles, dogs and cats. “If you have an interest in animals everybody is going to tell you should be a veterinarian, they don’t tell you the other opportunities that are in this space,” he said.

When Johnson entered Woodlawn High School in 2012 he interned at several animal clinics in the Birmingham area where he learned “I didn’t want to be a veterinarian,” he said. He wanted more. After graduating high school in 2016 he went on to earn an animal science degree from Alabama A&M in 2020.

“[The Bark Park] is a business that is underrepresented for people that look like me,” Johnson said. “By me going into this lane I want to create opportunities for people that look like me and not just limited to that but it’s important for us to see that we can go into whatever space we desire to be in. I’m blessed that God has given me this vision.”

Johnson’s business is one of numerous that have benefitted from Birmingham Small Business Week.

In the 2024 competition, Jeddie Carnes, owner of GLAAM Cosmetics was a winner and since has launched at least three new products and was accepted into the Target Accelerator Program

“We’ve developed programs that really give small businesses the tools they need to flourish,” said Monique Shorts, Senior Program Manager, Office of Business Diversity and Opportunity (OBDO). “We connect with them where they are right now to help them reach their goals. Ultimately, we’re focused on making good businesses better.”

Creating Economic Opportunities

Launched in 2018, the Department of Innovation and Economic Opportunity (IEO), along with its Office of Business Diversity and Opportunity (OBDO) created economic opportunity for small businesses which city officials said was the lifeblood of a vibrant local economy.

OBDO established a number of programs: the VITAL program (Valuing Inclusion to Accelerate and Lift) that advocates for the use of Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB) in city contracting and streamlining processes for small businesses to operate effectively.

There’s also the RISE (Retention Incentives for Success and Expansion) Program, established in March 2022, that provides cash incentives and revolving loan funds to Birmingham-based businesses. Companies like Robert Hill Custom Tailor, Bridge + Root, Acclinate, Kuntri Kitchen, and Salud Taquria have already leveraged RISE funding to expand operations and create jobs.

The city also touts the Building Opportunities for Lasting Development (BOLD) funding program, where more than 3,000 small businesses have been served, with more than $2.4 million in funding accessed. Beyond the dollars, over $25,000 in technical assistance has been provided, equipping these businesses with the crucial skills and knowledge to not just survive, but thrive.

Coreata’ R. Houser, Senior Deputy Director, IEO. (File)

“Birmingham’s innovative spirit has propelled us beyond our initial vision, and the exciting journey of growth and opportunity continues to unfold,” said Coreata’ R. Houser, Senior Deputy Director, IEO.

Legacy Businesses

OBDO’s work has been showcased nationally at conventions and conferences. And the recent award of $5 million to establish the Birmingham Entrepreneurship Center for Growth and Excellence, as part of the U.S. Economic Development Administration’s Recompete Pilot Program, is a recent win.

“Being in the thick of it with these small businesses every day, you see the real picture – their dreams, their debts, the daily hustle,” said Dorothy George – Small Business Relationship Coordinator. “What really hits home for me is knowing [we] can offer them real solutions that lead to tangible results.”

Business Week isn’t just for startups. The city also recognizes legacy businesses with a program that provides resources like succession planning workshops and conversations around the racial wealth gap. To date, over 40 legacy businesses have directly benefited from this support.

For example. Phillip Norton, owner of Norton’s Florist, is a Legacy Business Award Winner and Pam Stallings, owner of The Margaret. The Margaret is a Magic City Sips Partner and won the award for Best SIPS Collaborator in 2024.

Birmingham Small Business Week, May 4-10, 2025 at various locations around the city. For more visit www.bhmup.com

Business Owner Jeddie Carnes Builds on Pitch Competition Success

By
Birmingham Times
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Jeddie Carnes, business owner at GLAAM Cosmetics and Small Business Week Pitch Competition winner outside Birmingham City Hall. (Brandon Tolbert Photography)

By Je’Don Holloway-Talley | For The Birmingham Times

When Jeddie Carnes took the stage at the 2024 Small Business Week Pitch Competition, she didn’t just pitch a product, she shared her truth. That authenticity, along with a bold vision for her company, GLAAM Cosmetics, earned her a win and a wave of new opportunities that followed.

“It helped propel my business to new heights and opened doors I never imagined could open,” said the Birmingham resident.

Those opened doors included the Summit Media and Urban League Minority Business Startup Award, the Miles College Elevate Her Cohort Pitch Competition, the 2025 Trailblazer of the Year by Her Image Awards this May and work with the City of Birmingham to produce homemade lip gloss during Women’s History Month, “I’ve secured speaking with the YWCA, and just finished filming a for their documentary, telling my story for their upcoming fundraiser, and so much more,” Carnes said.

Asked what separated her pitch from the rest, it was her authenticity, Carns said. It wasn’t just about business; it was personal as well, she recalled. “My willingness to tell my story [of domestic abuse] wasn’t easy, … but I’ve realized that my story isn’t just about me, it’s about using my journey to bring awareness, inspire hope, and help the next generation of women overcome their challenges.”

Since capturing the pitch competition, Carnes has launched multiple new products and was accepted into the Target Accelerator Program, which “challenged me to think bigger and plan strategically for retail success,” she said. “Although the program has slowed down a bit due to DEI [Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion] restructuring, I’m still actively a part of it…”

Birmingham Small Business Week May 4-10 will include panels, interactive workshops, and pitch competitions that will draw national and local business leaders and government officials to celebrate entrepreneurship.

Asked what the upcoming Small Business Week can do for product developers and innovators like herself, Carnes said, “It brings more opportunities, resources, and recognition to businesses like mine right to the heart of Birmingham. There are truly some talented and amazing small businesses here that deserve to be seen and supported, and competitions like these not only help us grow, but also shine a spotlight on the creativity and innovation that Black-owned brands and small businesses are bringing to the city.”

More Than Beauty

The 44-year-old Fairfield native, a self-taught makeup artist, said her journey with makeup began out of survival. For example, covering her own bruises and scars in an abusive relationship. “I taught myself how to cover my bruises and emotional scars through makeup, and it became more than beauty, it was a way to reclaim my identity and strength.”

Carnes founded GLAAM – “Giving Luxurious Accessible Affordable Makeup” – in 2023 and became a company that goes deeper than beauty. It’s a ministry of empowerment, she said.

“What makes GLAAM Cosmetics unique in this multi-billion-dollar industry is our deep, personal connection with women, especially women who share similar backgrounds and experiences,” she said. “Our brand isn’t just about selling makeup; it’s about creating a movement and a community where women feel seen, heard, and empowered.”

GLAAM Cosmetics embodies the everyday woman on the go, and gives access to high-quality, luxurious products without a heavy price tag or complicated application, she said. Velvet matte liquid lipsticks are her best-sellers, she said. “They’re vegan, paraben-free, and have a built-in primer so they stay put no matter what– eating, drinking, even kissing,” she laughed. “Our GLAAM girls love how reliable they are.”

The Everyday Woman

Product development began in her kitchen in 2023. “GLAAM cosmetics is designed for women who need more than makeup… It’s a confidence boost.”

“I wanted to create a product that women could use in multiple ways… and let’s be honest, we all love a good lipstick,” she said.

One of GLAAM Cosmetics’ most innovative products is their transfer proof lipstick. “[We’re] the first to create a lipstick with a built-in component that makes it truly transfer-proof. The only way to remove this lipstick is with oil. That level of performance wear is something our GLAAM girls love and trust,” Carmes said.

Carnes has added high-shine lip glosses, lip pencils, and a foundation line that has grown from 28 to 56 shades. Even the development of her foundations was intentional.

Each launch begins with a vision. “Honestly, my ideas come from God,” she said. “Once I receive the vision, I sit in silence, pray, draw, write, research, and experiment with formulas.”

Although Carnes’s grit and forethought have brought her a long way, her success did not come without its fair share of trials. One of her hurdles has been acquiring business capital.

“One of the biggest challenges has been advocating for my brand and proving why my business deserves access to capital,” she said. “Unfortunately, many people still view small, Black-owned, women-owned beauty businesses as non-essential, but that couldn’t be further from the truth…”

Another challenge has been scaling during rapid growth and the recently implemented tariffs.

“Our products are selling at a fast pace, and because my chemist is located in Canada, the new tariffs have made it harder to produce and ship products within our usual 7-day turnaround,” Carnes shared. “…I’ve learned how to pivot quickly, negotiate better deals, and produce in larger bulk to stay ahead. And when necessary, I go back to my roots producing products in my kitchen just like I did when I first started.”

The mother of two has a 23-year-old daughter, Measia, and a 15-year-old son, Matthew. Carnes, a Fairfield High School and Miles College grad.

To shop GLAAM Cosmetics, visit www.glaamcosmetics.com or follow @glaamcosmetics on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

3 Tips to Help Alabama Business Owners Thrive During 2025

By
Birmingham Times
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Chase has found that businesses with a clear sense of purpose navigate challenges effectively but also build stronger customer loyalty. (Adobe Stock)

Sponsored by JPMorganChase

The small business landscape is ever-changing, and Birmingham is no exception. Over the past year, businesses have faced economic challenges such as inflation and rising costs. However, according to JPMorganChase’s 2025 Business Leaders Outlook Survey, 60 percent of small business leaders are optimistic about the local economy. This, combined with Birmingham’s unique market dynamics, creates both opportunities and challenges for local business owners. Drawing from Chase’s work with entrepreneurs across industries, here are three tips to help your business thrive.

Reconnecting With Your Purpose

In recent conversations with entrepreneurs across industries, Chase has found that businesses with a clear sense of purpose navigate challenges effectively but also build stronger customer loyalty. Your purpose should help guide key financial decisions whether you’re sourcing new raw materials, spending funds or investing.

For Alabama business owners, reassessing your purpose should be more than just an annual exercise – it should be viewed as a strategic necessity. Whether you’re a startup or a legacy business, revisiting your mission statement and recalibrating your offerings can reveal opportunities for growth and innovation. With 53 percent of businesses planning to launch new products or services in 2025, it’s essential to ensure these align with your core purpose.

Mastering Your Numbers

Oftentimes, business owners focus on driving sales or increasing clientele, but they often forget that receivable practices, invoicing on time and tracking payments can significantly impact your bottom line. Understanding your 2024 financial performance will help provide financial clarity and lay the groundwork for sustainable growth.

Chase recommends that Birmingham business owners focus on key metrics, such as profit and loss statements, cash flow and specific key performance indicators. As two thirds (67 percent) of midsized businesses anticipate higher profits this year, financial planning is especially crucial. Chase encourages businesses to start by tracking inflows and outflows. Tools like Chase’s Cash Flow Calculator can help you visualize your financial health and identify areas of improvement.

Surrounding Yourself With Experts

Running a business in Alabama requires a multidisciplinary approach. Bookkeepers, accountants, and legal advisors are not just consultants but critical partners in your growth. Each of these professionals bring a unique perspective to areas of your operations, from financial clarity to legal compliance.

Programs like Chase for Business Coaching for Impact provides entrepreneurs with access to expert guidance, helping you streamline operations, strategize your growth and navigate complex challenges such as inflation or labor shortages. According to the survey, 43% of midsize businesses plan to engage in strategic partnerships in 2025. Building a support network of trusted experts ensures you’re not leaving any stone unturned, help to set you up for long-term success.

By reconnecting with your purpose, understanding your numbers, and building a strong professional network, you’ll be well-positioned to navigate challenges and embrace opportunity. Success in Birmingham’s dynamic business environment requires both a strong foundation and the agility to adapt. Chase for Business is committed to helping you achieve both.

Visit www.chase.com/coachingforimpact for more information and resources for personalized guidance on your business journey.

An Open Letter to My Community

By
Birmingham Times
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Most of us in the Birmingham area heard or read about the awful story of a young lady running over the father of her children on Easter Sunday – while her children and each of their respective families watched.

It is a story that, in my opinion, has defied any sort of logic, but rather, shows what happens when high emotion leads first. And it’s a story that I can’t let go of at this point – it is ripe with lessons if we peer beneath the surface.

I’ll start by asking something very simple.

Why is it that some would rather do harm to a person instead of moving on after a disagreement and allowing each party to live to see another day? It appears that it has really gotten that serious now where we cannot disagree with anyone anymore without it escalating to dangerous and sometimes deadly heights.

This is a hard dynamic to see play out in real time across Birmingham streets.

Well, I have a novel idea (it’s the coach in me).

If you’re in a broken, tumultuous or downright toxic relationship, why not acknowledge the fact that you two are no longer going in the same direction and respectfully pivot? It’s really that simple. Or, you can take the time to step back and get emotions under control — sort of like a cooling off period.

Like, what’s wrong with parking the car (relationship) and reevaluating or recalculating your direction?

We do it all the time in other areas of our lives, but in relationships we can’t give grace? I’m not buying it.

I hurt for my community because we have become addicted to moving, responding and acting on high emotions and, in the process, we continue to take losses that impact not only ourselves, our families and our children, but our community as a whole.

Seriously, some of this is getting really hard to watch. Maybe you’ll consider this an open letter to my folk in Birmingham … we’ve already paid a great price to live freely in this community, so how shameful is it that our violent actions against one another threaten to enslave and diminish us once again?

Come on good people — when is it enough?

I cannot believe that I’m seeing so much hatred we harbor toward one another, and I do not understand from whence it stems.

Ladies and gentlemen let’s consider our actions. Our community seriously needs you. I implore you to evaluate your relationship before the disagreement or explosion occurs. It’s okay to move on, just move wisely.

Ask yourself, “What is the long play, and will my actions bring me, my family and children shame? There is a better way… may we all choose the path of wisdom.

Blessings and always remember, I’m cheering for you.

Keisa Sharpe is a life coach, author and speaker. Her column appears each month online and in The Birmingham Times. You can contact Keisa at keisasharpe@yahoo.com and visit www.allsheanaturals.com for natural hair and body products.

Stick to These Yard Maintenance Safety Tips as Summer Nears

By
Birmingham Times
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Our latest safety series involves yard work this spring and summer as well as into fall. Last week we reviewed safety tips to help maintain our physical health and strength. Where yard work yields beautiful outcomes to be both admired and enjoyed, it is often strenuous work which can involve some work hazards. So, let us continue to review safety don’ts when completing your yard work.

A beautiful lawn filled with plenty of curb appeal, but also functional to enjoy all types of fun outdoor activities with family and friends. (Adobe Stock)

Here is a list of those yard work Do Nots:

• Rakes should be comfortable and the right size for your height and strength.

• Watch for low branches, large rocks and tree stumps.

• Watch out for possible holes in your yard that may be covered up by grass or debris. Stepping into one of these holes can possibly result in months of medical issues.

• Be aware of uneven ground surfaces and slopes.

• Pick up leaves by bending from the knees, not the waist.

• Do not overfill leaf bags or carry them over your shoulder.

• When weeding, a half kneeling position is safer than bending forward.

• Wet leaves are very slippery. Make sure to wear boots or shoes with soles that are slip resistant.

• Make sure ladders are firmly on the ground before climbing and never climb to the top.

• Hold the pruning shears close to your body.

• Be conscious of electricity.

Being careful as you complete your yard work by Keeping an Eye on Safety will provide a splendid opportunity to enjoy the fruits of your labor even more.

PEOPLE, PLACES & THINGS

By
Birmingham Times
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Joy-Ann Reid at the Carver Theater, Saturday at 2:45 p.m. (Credit: Keplers.org)

By Gwen DeRu | The Birmingham Times

TODAY…

**READ THE BIRMINGHAM TIMES. Catch up on the news!!!

**BLUES JAM EVERY 3rd THURSDAY, 7- 10 p.m. at True Story Brewing.

**VALORIES at The Nick.

**3rd THURSDAY at the Nick with RAMBLIN’ RICKY TATE at The Nick.

**CUPCAKKE at Saturn.

**HOUNDMOUTH at Iron City.

**FILMMAKER NETWORKING NIGHTS, 5 p.m.  at 1821 2nd Avenue North

**EVERY THURSDAY- THAT’S MY JAM THURSDAYS, 7 p.m. at Platinum of Birmingham with DJ Slugga.

**ALABAMA BLAZIN BINGO, 6 p.m. at Overtime Grill and Bar.

**FILM at Sidewalk Film.

**KARAOKE, 7 p.m. at True Story Brewing.

FRIDAY…

IT IS Friday…the weekend starts…

**GLADYS IMPROV at Saturn.

**INTERGALACTIC PLANETARY at Saturn.

**STUD FORD (Grandson of Legendary Delta-Blues artist- MODEL FORD & WILL COPPAGE at the Nick.

**WILCO with WAXAHATCHEE at Avondale Brewing Co.

**LATE NIGHT FRIDAYS with ZEN FORCE at The Nick Rocks.

**GOOD PEOPLE & GOOD MUSIC WITH GOOD PEOPLE BREWING at Dave’s, 6 p.m. at Dave’s Pub.

SATURDAY…

**KARAOKE SATURDAYS, 3 p.m. at 3605 Gray Avenue, Adamsville, with the ALL-EN ONE BBQ with Chef Randy ”Dee” Allen and The Lovely LaToria at the 7 Angels Coffee & Smoothie Café.

**MULTI ULTRA at The Nick.

**LATE NIGHT at The Nick with R.1Y.T.

**BOY HARSHE with NORMAL BIAS, DOMESTICATRIX, DJ BLESSED DREGS at Saturn.

**AVONDALE DERBY DAY at Avondale Brewing Co.

SUNDAY…

**SINGO BINGO EVERY SUNDAY, 1 p.m. at Cahaba Brewing Company.

**EASE BACK 4th SUNDAYS, 5 p.m. at True Story Brewing.

**2ND SUNDAY FREE with ZACH AUSTIN, 5-7 p.m. at The Nick.

MONDAY…

**BIRMINGHAM BANDSTAND (Open Mic) at the Nick.

TUESDAY…

**JOSE CARR EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT at True Story Brewing.

**SONGWRITER’S NIGHT EVERY TUESDAY, 7 p.m. at The Nick.

**NOAH GUTHRIE at The Nick.

**SUPERSTAR KARAOKE EVERY TUESDAY, 10 p.m. at The Nick.

**MAT KEARNEY – HEADLIGHTS HOME TOUR at Iron City.

**JAKE XERXES FUSSELL at Saturn.

WEDNESDAY…

**REAL FUNNY COMEDY WEDNESDAYS at True Story Brewing. Sign up at 7:30 p.m.

**EVERY WEDNESDAY NIGHT with SUNDROP at The Nick.

**PAISLEY FIELDS at The Nick.

**TURNOVER – 10 YEARS OF PERIPHERAL VISION at Iron City.

**NOLAN TAYLOR at Saturn.

**MASON VIA -in The Upstairs at Avondale

NEXT THURSDAY…

**READ THE BIRMINGHAM TIMES. Catch up on the news!!!

**BLUES JAM EVERY 3rd THURSDAY, 7- 10 p.m. at True Story Brewing.

**SGT. SPLENDOR at The Nick.

**3rd THURSDAY at the Nick with RAMBLIN’ RICKY TATE at The Nick.

**MEGHAN DOWLEN, SERIOUSLY, and BREELY FLOWER at Saturn.

NEXT FRIDAY…

**WILLOW AVALON at Saturn.

**KIRKOS AND OXMOOR at the Nick.

**DEAD LOVE at Avondale Brewing Co.

NEWS TO KNOW AND USE – PEOPLE, PLACES AND THINGS TO WATCH…

**BLACK WOMEN LEAD THE WAY, 2:45 p.m. Saturday at the Carver Theatre, 1631 4th Avenue North with Joy-Ann Reid, Commissioner Sheila Tyson, Dr. Nadia Johnson, DeJuana Thompson and Angela Rye.  This is part of the State of the People POWER Tour Alabama. Go to stateoftheppl.com for more. DAY ONE – RELIEF & RESILIENCE including Community Support Activations, Listening Town Hall, Field Hearing. DAY TWO – DAY OF ACTION includes Hands-On workshops & Teach-Ins, Community Impact Fair and SOTP Power Rally.

**BOOK – BACKROOM DEALS IN OUR BACKYARDS: How Government Secrecy Harms Our Communities and the Local Heroes Fighting Back by author MIRANDA SPIVACK, a veteran reporter and Fulbright scholar who specializes in stories about government accountability, secrecy and urban development. MR. BEN EATON and MISS PORTIA SHEPHERD from Uniontown, Alabama are what Miranda calls ‘accidental activists’ who confront problems in their communities that seek out information from the various governments and hit information blockades.  The book specifically details the role that Black Warrior Riverkeeper plays in supporting residents of the Uniontown community as they struggle for transparency and accountability from their local, state and federal governments.  There is a BOOK TALK AND SIGNING of this Studs and Ida Terkel prize-winning book on May 14, 4 p.m. at The Alabama Booksmith, 2626 19th Place South, Birmingham. Call 205-870-4242 for more.

FOR MOTORSPORTS LOVERS…

**AT BARBER’S MOTORSPORTS PARK…

…INDY GRAND PRIX RACING…This is the weekend that anyone in love with cars has been waiting on …for the joy of fast cars. The weekend action kicks off on FRIDAY at the Barbers Motorsports Park with the CHILDREN’S OF ALABAMA INDY GRAND PRIX OF ALABAMA Car Races-

**FRIDAY- Practice #1 Mazda MX-5 Cup- 8 a.m., Qualifying Radical Cup North America – 9 a.m., Race #1 USF Juniors – 9:45 a.m., Practice #2 Mazda MX-5 Cup – 10:40 a.m., Race #1 Radical Cup North America – 11:25 a.m., Driver Autograph Session – Noon, Race #2 USF Juniors – 12:25 p.m., Practice #1 INDY NXT – 1:30 p.m., Practice #1 NTT INDY CAR SERIES – 2:35 p.m., Race #2 Radical Cup North America – 4:15 p.m. and Racing For Children’s Dinner – 6 p.m.

**SATURDAY – (Check your schedule for practice, race times) VELCRO PYGMIRES CONCERT at 3:30 p.m. in the Fan Zone. Henderson Auctions Collector Motor Series Auction (Museum Grand Atrium) at 6:30 p.m.

**SUNDAY – (Check your schedule for activities). Look for the INDY NXT RACE at 10:36 a.m. The INDYCAR SERIES RACE at 12:52 p.m.

**AT TALLADEGA SUPERSPEEDWAY…

…Just a little Alabama, Talladega Superspeedway and motorsports history… adding up to a lot of history that ‘was’ in the making!!

**HONORING BOBBY ALLISON PARADE LAP – NASCAR HALL OF FAMER BOBBY ALLISON was honored with a special parade lap at the recent NASCAR Cup Series Jack Link’s 500 (April 27, 2025) at Talladega Superspeedway. Allison’s famed 1969 Mercury Cyclone was driven around the track by his grandson Robbie Allison following the National Anthem. Bobby history in racing at Talladega included four career Cup Series victories along with being an integral member of the Alabama Gang. He contributed to NASCAR and the track’s storied history with unforgettable moments. Allison was named to the NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2011 and was named one of NASCAR’s 50 Greatest Drivers in 1998.

MAY HAPPENINGS…

**TODAY – SPRING FLING is the first annual English Village Spring Fling, 5-8 p.m. at the Mountain Brook driving Club and specialty drinks at Key Circle Commons.  There will be music, specials and sales.

**SATURDAY – SIDEWALK’S 14th ANNUAL SALSA SHOWDOWN, 2-6 p.m. at Cahaba Brewing CO featuring salsa tastings, a hot pepper eating contest, kids’ activities and for the first time ever – a vendor village. Restaurants featured are Condado Tacos, Karter’s Korner, LaPaz Restaurant & Catering, Somgrero Hot Sauce of Alabama T’s Great Salsa and more. Featured Vendors include Beck’s Blissful Bites, Create Birmingham, Little Goose by Ashley, Nothing Bundt Cakes, She Is Candles, Trunk Tea Spirit-Free Cocktails and more. If you have not been, then this is the time you should make your way there! Enjoy it all!!! Who do you think will have the best salsa, queso and guac in Birmingham?

**MONDAY…33rd ANNUAL IRELAND LEGACY GOLF TOURNAMENT, 11 a.m. shotgun.at the Old Overton Club.  This event brings the community together in support of Glenwood’s life-changing programs for adults with autism. For more, go to: glenwood.org.

**MAY 13 – LIVE NATION CONCERT – SHINEDOWN “DANCE, KID, DANCE TOUR with Special Guests BEARTOOTH & MORGAN WADE at the Legacy Arena BJCC.

AT SIDEWALK CINEMA…

**TODAY – THE SHROUDS all week.

**TODAY – THE FLORIDA PROJECTS, as part of Sean Baker Filmmaker series

**TODAY – RED ROCKET is another film from the Sean Baker series.

**TODAY ONLY – RESISTANCE OF VISION is a select program of 8 shorts for One Night Only for Physical and Virtual screenings.

**TODAY – THE GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL is a Knitflix and Chill Night with Knit Bham. Bring your knitting, crochet or craft projects. Lights will be brighter.

**FRIDAY – SPRING SCRAMBLE KICK OFF IN PERSON at Sidewalk Cinema, 7 p.m. This is the 48-hour filmmaking competition, open to everyone from pros to amateurs.

**FRIDAY through THURSDAY – O BROTHER, WHERE ART THOU by the Coen Brothers is celebrating its 25th Anniversary.

**SATURDAY – 14th ANNUAL SALSA SHOWDOWN, 2-6 p.m. at Cahaba Brewing Co.

AT UAB…

**MAY 8 – FROM WHERE I SIT, 7 p.m. at UAB Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center is part of the UAB Disability Arts Festival Celebration and resource. (There is a FREE PREVIEW at 2 p.m. at The Lakeshore Foundation. Register) It is inspired by a writing program for people with spinal cord injuries, the project includes participants from across the country who have spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis or traverse myelitis and joined together on monthly Zoom sessions to share stories, lyrics and poetry of life in a wheelchair. It is An Anthology from the Write to Heal Program. For more, contact artsinmedicine@uab.edu.

**MAY 9 – LEAVING THE WORLD OF THE TEMPORARILY ABLED, 6 p.m.   at UAB’s Abroms-Engel Institute for the Visual Arts, 1221 10th Avenue South.with an anthology release party and artist, administrator, advocate and legislator John Killacky and his talk.

**MAY 10- From Where I Sit, 7 p.m. is part of the UAB Disability Arts Festival.

**MAY 11 – From Where I Sit, 2 p.m. is a second performance at UAB.

Register atAlysSstephens.org. For questions oor accommodations, contact artsinmedicine@uab.edu.

AT THE BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS…

**MAY IS MEMBERSHIP MONTH.

**FRIDAY – STORYTIME AT THE GARDENS, 10 a.m. in the Southern Living Garden. FREE. Registration required.

**MAY 6 – ROSE’ IN THE ROSES, 5:30 – 7 p.m. in the Dunn Formal Rose Garden with live music and the Junior Board ready to pour your next glass. Guests will toast the Gardens’ roses with a curated wine selection from Finch Fine Wines, including a refreshing alcohol-free rose’. Reservations are required.

**MAY 17 TOURS FOR MEMBERS ONLY in the Japanese Garden with Julia Adams at 10 a.m., Bruno Vegetable Garden with Katelyn Bahr at 11 a.m. and Kaul Wildflower Garden with Keith Turney at Noon.

FOR EARNING AND LEARNING AND EMPLOYMENT…

**MAGIC CITY YOUTHBUILD is accepting applications. Earn while you learn, train in construction and healthcare careers. INFO: Must be 16-24 years old, 6 to 9 month program, earn your GED, and get paid a biweekly stipend. Contact 205-983-7550 or youthbuild@habd.net.

**HABD SUMMER YOUTH EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM for Birmingham residents ages 16-24 to work as a camp counselor or intern. INTERN – May 1 – August 31, work hours are flexible up to 40 hrs. a week. CAMP COUNSELOR – June 1 – August 10, work hours are 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Get more info and apply at any Housing Authority of the Birmingham District Community Center or Management Office.

**PA ETIQUETTE WORKSHOP is May 6, 5- 7 p.m. for Production Assistant Etiquette led by AD Maggie Ballard. Contact Create Birmingham for more.

**SO FRESH & SO CLEAN Haircuts for Youth Tour “BARBER SHOP TALK” dates are May 1 at Princeton Alternative Elementary School, May 16 at Su Valley Elementary 16, 10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m., May 21 at Hayes K-8 School and May 30 at Hemphill Elementary, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. If interested in more info, call 850-371-4832.

**YOUTH SERVE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES are CARDBOARD CONNECT on Saturday, 3- 7 p.m. at Avondale Samaritan Place, 3829 5th Avenue S and CHILDREN’S BOOK DRIVE through April 28 to donate books. Books can be dropped off at YouthServe Office, 2717- 7th Avenue So, #105, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. For more email: ajay@youthservebham.org.

**CRISIS CENTER TEEN BOARD APPLICATIONS for 7 – 12th graders. Applications close on April 30 for the 25-26 school year. Contact Crisis Center.

Well, that’s it. Tell you more ‘next’ time. People, Places and Things by Gwen DeRu is a weekly column. Send your contact info with your events, your things of interest and more to: gwenderu@yahoo.com AND thelewisgroup@birminghamtimes.com.

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