NAACP Statement on Charges Against Officers in Freddie Gray’s Death

May 7, 2015

NAACP Statement on Charges Against Officers in Freddie Gray’s Death

BALTIMORE, Md. — Six Baltimore police officers face criminal charges ranging from assault to second-degree murder in the death of Freddie Gray, who died from injuries suffered in police custody. In light of this development, the NAACP has released the following statement:

From Cornell William Brooks, NAACP President and CEO:

“The NAACP applauds Maryland State Attorney Marilyn Mosby for taking this bold and important first step toward justice for Freddie Gray, his family and the Sandtown-Winchester community. We are encouraged by today’s charges, but we know that this is just the beginning. The NAACP has been committed to the fight against racial profiling and police brutality throughout our 106 year history and with this indictment, we will continue our work both locally, statewide and nationally on criminal justice reform including passage of the End Racial Profiling legislation.
We invoke the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Medgar Evers and so many others great practitioners of democracy and peace. We are grateful for the courage and tenacity of Freddie Gray’s family, whose quiet resolve is helping to shape a national movement for all of America’s children.”

From Gerald Stansbury, NAACP Maryland State Conference President:

“The Maryland State conference of the NAACP is pleased that the justice system has moved swiftly to address the tragedy of Freddy Gray’s untimely and unnecessary demise. This is a step towards due process for the family of Freddie Gray and the community. We hope that the actions taken by the State Attorney Mosby and Baltimore officials serve as an example for other states and for other “Freddie Grays” around the country.”

From Tessa Hill-Aston, Baltimore Branch NAACP President:

“The Baltimore Branch of the NAACP are elated that State Attorney Marilyn Mosby announced that all six officers involved will be charged in the death of Mr. Freddie Gray. All eyes are on Baltimore right now and we see this as the first steps towards justice for Freddie Gray. The Baltimore branch will continue to work for the civil rights of all of Baltimore citizens and to find justice for the young African-American males who have suffered from police misconduct in Sandtown and throughout Baltimore—we will continue to work with Mayor Stephanie Rawlins-Blakely on securing body worn cameras for the Baltimore Police Department. We do all this as we continue to operate the NAACP Baltimore satellite office, serving community members at 1135 N. Gilmor Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland.”

Home Builders Blitz

Birmingham Times

May 7, 2015

Home Builders Blitz

Habitat for Humanity Greater Birmingham, Inc. (Habitat Birmingham) and the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders Join Forces to Make Affordable Housing a Reality for Eleven Families – 10th Annual Home Builders Blitz

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Members of the Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders along with Habitat Birmingham raised the walls on 11 homes recently, as part of the nation-wide 2015 Habitat for Humanity Home Builders Blitz, to provide low and moderate income families quality affordable home.
During this year’s Home Builders Blitz, 11 families will achieve their dream of homeownership, thanks to the skilled labor provided by the local professional homebuilders and construction companies. The professional home builders and Habitat Birmingham worked closely together to organize this year’s blitz build securing subcontractors, donations of building materials and fundraising.
“This is our 10th Annual Home Builders Blitz and we are very excited to partner again with the local professional home builders and contractors to engage them in Habitat’s mission of helping families in need with quality affordable homes,” said Charles Moore, Greater Birmingham Habitat for Humanity President and CEO. “By sharing their talents and skills, we are able to increase the number of new homes that we will build this year and help more families in need of affordable housing. We are especially grateful and thank all the builders, contractors and sponsors for their commitment and dedication in making the 2015 Home Builders Blitz a success.”
Participating home builders include: AGH Homes, Bluestone Building, Compass Home Builders, Drake Homes, Embassy Homes, Habitat Birmingham, Harris Doyle Homes, Murphy Home Builders, Taylor Burton Company, Thoroughbred Homes, and Wright Homes.
“Since our first Home Builders Blitz in 2006, our partnership with the local home builders and our community sponsors has made the dream of homeownership a reality for 86 families. After this year’s Blitz, that number of families served by blitz builds goes up to 97. This accomplishment was only made possible by the generosity and support of the local home builders, contractors, sponsors and volunteers” Moore continued.
Community sponsors of the 2015 Home Builders Blitz include: Wells Fargo, Alabama Housing Finance Authority, Larry and Karen Norris, Alabama Power, Mortgage Bankers Association of Alabama, Greater Birmingham Association of Home Builders and MERSCorp. Other community partners and material contributors include: Bancorp South, Dave Condon PC, Aliant Bank, Fidelity (Lion) Bank, Jones Stephens, Absolute Concrete, Alabama Brick, Nucor Steel, and Huggins Sod Farm.
Construction on the 11 homes will continue until noon Thursday, May 7th when the Dedication Ceremony and Presentation of the Keys will take place. With the help of hundreds of volunteers, builders, subcontractors and the “sweat equity” of the future homeowners all the blitz homes will be completed and be ready for move-in by noon on Thursday, May 7th.

Libraries are Happening Places! Join Us at Central and See

Birmingham Times

May 7, 2015

Libraries are Happening Places! Join Us at Central and See
Young Professionals group hosts special tour and new member recruitment event

BIRMINGHAM, Ala.—Libraries across the United States and around the globe are attracting young professionals with a commitment to make the world a better place. The Birmingham Public Library Young Professionals (BPLYPs) share this outlook. Group members understand that libraries change lives and that through our public libraries in Birmingham, citizens have access to quality information, technology, training and a wealth of other resources.
Join the BPLYPs for a Special Collections Tour of the Linn-Henley Research Library on Tuesday, May 19. Refreshments will be served, along with a brief overview on the organization, from 5:30 until 6 p.m. in the Richard Arrington, Jr. Auditorium. The guided tour gets underway from 6 p.m. until 7 p.m. Attendees must register by email to bcsmith@bham.lib.al.us or by calling (205) 591-4944. Guests can use the Linn-Henley Park entrance to access the building—parking is available on the street at no cost.
The Young Professionals are Birmingham Public Library’s newest support group comprised of accomplished business leaders between the ages of 25-40 who live and work in the metro area. Organized in 2012, the mission of the BPLYPs is to support library programs through fundraising events, as well as to promote the library through cultural programs and service projects.
Connecting with such groups is an increasingly popular way for an individual to broaden skills and experience in the business world while supporting a worthy organization. Young Professionals participate in volunteer service opportunities, leadership training, social networking, and help to sustain organizations with modest annual financial contributions.
Interested in supporting the library as a BPLYP member? There are still a few seats left on the Birmingham Public Library Young Professionals Board. Interested young professionals between the ages of 25-40 can go to http://www.bplonline.org/yp/ for more information or to fill out an application.

Classified

Birmingham Times

May 7, 2015

**Employment

**CATERING SERVICE
*Rae Rae’s Catering
All Events – Weddings –
Family Reunions – Etc.
*205-266-0831or 205-587-7503
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**APARTMENT FOR RENT

*HICKORY RIDGE / SPRING GARDENS I APARTMENTS
*(SENIOR HOUSING)
201 Spring Gardens Road – Birmingham, AL 35217
205-841-5032

We will be accepting applications for
Senior Housing – 62 Plus – Rent based on income
Monday thru Thursday – 8:00 AM – 4:00PM

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*Legals

*2015 Legal Notice:

*Jefferson County, Alabama Board of Equalization & Adjustments
*Notice of Valuation of Property
In accordance with State of Alabama Code, Section 40-2-18, the Jefferson County, Alabama Board of Equalization has set 2015 real property value for all parcels located in Jefferson County, Alabama. Beginning May 13, 2015 these values are available for public inspection in the Birmingham and Bessemer Courthouse’s Board of Equalization offices or you may log on to the Board of Equalization web page and locate the value. Instructions addressing objections to value are also available on our website at* www.jeffconline.jccal.org.
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*REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Jefferson County through its Office of Community & Economic Development is seeking proposals from qualified firms to provide *architectural services associated with the North Smithfield Manor Storm Shelter Project II. Proposals must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m., on May 7, 2015.

RFQ packets can be obtained at the address below:
Jefferson County Office of Community & Economic Development
716 Richard Arrington JR Blvd, N.
Room A-430
Birmingham, AL 35203

For more information call Alfonso Holt at (205) 325-5761.
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*REQUEST FOR BIDS
*“RESIDENTIAL ROOFING SERVICES”

*BID ANNOUNCEMENT
*“BID# 94-15”

Bids will be accepted by the Jefferson County Purchasing Department no later than 5:00 P.M. on Tuesday, May 19, 2015, for proposed Residential Roofing Services & Repairs.

“Various Residential Roofing Services Repair work throughout Jefferson County.”

Bids will be opened at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, May 20, 2015, in Suite 830 of the Jefferson County Courthouse.

Interested contractors may get a copy of the bid package by visiting or writing to the following address:

Jefferson County Courthouse
Jefferson County Office of Community & Economic Development
716 Richard Arrington, Jr. Blvd. N., Suite A-430
Birmingham, Al. 35203-0108

All interested contractors must meet the minimum contractor requirements on or before the date and time that the proposals are due.   Interested contractors may get a copy of the minimum contractor qualifications by visiting or writing to the following address.
Jefferson County Office of Community Development
716 Richard Arrington, Jr. Blvd. N., Suite A430
Birmingham, Al. 35203-0108
Questions should be directed to Joel Knight   (205) 325-5761.
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*The Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority will receive sealed bids for:

*Forklift – Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)

This will be for the use of the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority, Birmingham, Alabama.

*The Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North, Birmingham, Alabama will receive *bids, up to the hour of 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 13, 2015, and will thereafter be publicly opened and read aloud at the BJCC Executive Board Room 4th Floor, North Exhibition Hall in Birmingham, AL. Bids must be submitted on bid forms furnished by the Authority.

A copy of this bid package is available at the above address or on our website:* www.bjcc.org (under Jobs & Vendor Opportunities – Open Bids section). There is no charge for downloading bid documents.

*Bids may be sent to BJCC Purchasing Department, Attn: Purchasing Coordinator, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N, Dock #2, Birmingham, AL 35203. Sealed bids shall be submitted in duplicate and shall be properly identified. *All bids received after 1:30 p.m. on the bid date will be returned unopened.

A Cashier’s Check drawn on an Alabama Bank or bid bond, executed by a Surety company duly authorized and qualified to make such bonds in Alabama, payable to the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority in the amount of $1,000.00 must accompany the bidder’s bid.
*Questions should be directed to PJ Payne, at (205) 458-8599, or email PJ.Payne@bjcc.org.

Sharon Proctor
Purchasing Coordinator
Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority
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*The Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority will receive sealed proposals for:

*Roof Replacement Architectural Design Services

This will be for the use of the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority, Birmingham, Alabama.

*The Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North, Birmingham, *Alabama will receive proposals, on or before Wednesday, June 3, 2015. Proposals shall be clearly identified on the exterior of the package with the proposer’s name, address, and the name of the project being proposed.

A copy of this Request for Proposal package is available at the above address or on our website: www.bjcc.org (under Jobs & Vendor Opportunities – Open Bids section). There is no charge for downloading proposal documents.

Proposals may be sent to Sharon Proctor, Purchasing Coordinator, Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex, Roof Replacement Architectural Design Services RFP, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N, Birmingham, AL 35203. Sealed proposals shall be submitted in triplicate and shall be properly identified.

A pre-proposal conference will be conducted on Thursday, May 14, 2015 at 1:30 p.m. Proposers shall meet at the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority, Executive Board Room, 4th Floor North Exhibition Hall, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N, Birmingham, Alabama.

Questions should be directed to Jerry Nelms, Facility Engineer, (205) 458-8409 or email Jerry.Nelms@bjcc.org.

Sharon Proctor
Purchasing Coordinator
Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority

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*INVITATION FOR BID

The Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority will receive sealed bids for:
*BJCC North Hall 4th Floor Renovation

This will be for the use of the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority, Birmingham, Alabama. *General Contractors will be required to make a good faith effort to *include MBE and DBE companies in the execution of this project.

*The Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North, Birmingham, Alabama will receive bids, up to the hour of 2:00 P.M. on Friday, June 05, 2015, and will thereafter be publicly opened and read aloud at the BJCC Executive Board Room 4th Floor, North Exhibition Hall in Birmingham, AL. Bids must be submitted on bid forms furnished by the Authority or its representative. Bids shall be clearly identified on the exterior of the package with bidder’s name, address, STATE CONTRACTOR LICENSE NUMBER, the name of the project being bid, and time and place of bid opening. Sealed bids shall be properly identified.

Bids may be sent to *BJCC, Attn: Purchasing Coordinator, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N, Birmingham, AL 35203. Sealed bids shall be submitted in triplicate and shall be properly identified. *All bids received after 2:00 P.M. on the bid date will be returned unopened.

A copy of this bid package is available by calling (205) 458-8432, emailing* Sharon.Proctor@bjcc.org, or on our website:* www.bjcc.org (under Jobs & Vendor Opportunities – Open Bids section). There is no charge for downloading bid documents.

Construction contracts shall be awarded only to qualified Contractors, licensed by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors, as required by Title 34, Chapter 8, and Code of Alabama. Contracts in excess of $50,000 shall be awarded only to Contractors licensed as required by the 1978 Code of Alabama, Title 34, and Chapter 8 as amended. Bidders must be “responsible” in accordance with criteria in the bid and as stipulated by Title 30-2-3-(e) of the code of Alabama.

A Cashier’s Check drawn on an Alabama Bank or bid bond, executed by a Surety company duly authorized and qualified to make such bonds in Alabama, payable to the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority in the amount of 5% of the amount of bids, but in no event more than $10,000, must accompany the bidder’s bid. Performance and Labor and Material Payment Bonds in the amount of 100% of the contract price will be required when the Contract is presented by the Contractor to the Authority.

A *mandatory pre-bid meeting will be conducted Wednesday, May 20, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at the jobsite located at 2301 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd North. All project documents and drawings will be available electronically at the pre-bid meeting. In addition copies of this bid package are available by calling (205) 458-8432, emailing Sharon.Proctor@bjcc.org, or on our website: www.bjcc.org (under Jobs & Vendor Opportunities – Open Bids section). There is no charge for downloading bid documents

*Questions concerning the specifications should be directed to Jerry Nelms, Facility Engineer, at (205) 458-8409 or at jerry.nelms@bjcc.org.

Sharon A. Proctor, Purchasing Coordinator
Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority

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*The Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority will receive sealed bids for:

*Fabrication and Installation of Boundary Signs

This will be for the use of the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority, Birmingham, Alabama.

*The Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North, Birmingham, Alabama will receive *bids, up to the hour of 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 3, 2015, and will thereafter be publicly opened and read aloud at the BJCC Executive Board Room 4th Floor, North Exhibition Hall in Birmingham, AL. Bids must be submitted on bid forms furnished by the Authority.

A copy of this bid package is available at the above address or on our website: *www.bjcc.org (under Jobs & Vendor Opportunities – Open Bids section). There is no charge for downloading bid documents.

Bids may be sent to *BJCC Purchasing Department, *Attn: Purchasing Coordinator, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. * N, Dock #2, Birmingham, AL 35203. Sealed bids shall be submitted in duplicate and shall be properly identified. *All bids *received after 10:00 a.m. on the bid date will be returned unopened.

*A Cashier’s Check drawn on an Alabama Bank or bid bond, executed by a Surety company duly authorized and *qualified to make such bonds in Alabama, payable to the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority in the *amount of $1,000.00 must accompany the bidder’s bid.
*Questions should be directed to Jerry Nelms, Facility Engineer, (205) 458-8409 or email Jerry.Nelms@bjcc.org.

Sharon Proctor
Purchasing Coordinator
Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority
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*The Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority will receive sealed bids for:

*Exterior Precast Façade Cleaning

This will be for the use of the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority, Birmingham, Alabama.

*The Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North, Birmingham, Alabama will receive *bids, up to the hour of 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3, 2015, and will thereafter be publicly opened and read aloud at the BJCC Executive Board Room 4th Floor, North Exhibition Hall in Birmingham, AL. Bids must be submitted on bid forms furnished by the Authority.

Bids may be sent to BJCC Purchasing Department, * Attn: Purchasing Coordinator, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N, *Dock #2, Birmingham, AL 35203. Sealed bids shall be submitted in triplicate and shall be properly identified. All bids *received after 1:00 p.m. on the bid date will be returned unopened.

*A Cashier’s Check drawn on an Alabama Bank or bid bond, executed by a Surety company duly authorized and *qualified to make such bonds in Alabama, payable to the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority in the *amount of $1,000.00 must accompany the bidder’s bid.
*A MANDATORY pre-bid meeting will be conducted Tuesday, May 19, 2015 at 1:30 p.m. in the BJCC Executive Board *Room.

*Questions should be directed to Tom Elliott, Project Manager at (205) 458-8528 or email Tom.Elliott@bjcc.org.

ƒSharon Proctor
Purchasing Coordinator
Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority
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*INVITATION FOR BIDS

*The Fairfield Alabama Housing Authority will receive bids for: An Alteration to Mattie Gill Jackson Gardens (AL 10-2) until *2:00 p.m. CST, local time, on Tuesday, May 19, 2015 at the central office of the Authority located at 6704 Avenue D, Fairfield, Alabama 35064, at which time and place all bids received will be publicly opened and read aloud. Bids must be submitted in a sealed envelope, clearly marked “An Alteration to Mattie Gill Jackson Gardens”.

The general scope of work includes bathroom renovation in fifty (50) apartment units.

Contract Documents, including Drawings and Project Manual, are on file at the following locations: the office of the Architect, Adams Design Associates, Inc., 2 – 20th Street North, Suite 940 Birmingham, AL 35203, Attention Mr. Reilly P. Strauss, (205) 328-1100 x 106, *rstrauss@adamsdesignarchitects.com and at the following locations: Alabama Graphics, F.W. Dodge / McGraw Hill, I sq Ft, Birmingham Construction Industry Authority (BCIA) and Reed Construction Data.

Copies of the Contract Documents may be obtained by contacting Alabama Graphics at * http://dpr.algraphics.com or 205-252-8505, thus ordered can be picked up locally from Alabama Graphics, 280 15th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233 or shipped, for the cost of reproduction and shipping for each set of documents so obtained. Release of the Contract Documents does not imply acceptance of a bidder’s qualifications.

Contractors must be licensed by the General Contractors Licensure Board of Alabama and meet the statutory requirements, including maintaining a license in good standing. All bidders must include a current license number with the submission of the bid.

Bidders are required to inspect the property and the buildings themselves, as well as operations and conditions that may be affected.

A certified check or bank draft, payable to the order of Fairfield Alabama Housing Authority or a satisfactory bid bond executed by the bidder and an acceptable surety company in an amount equal to five percent (5%) of the total bid, but in no event more than ten thousand dollars ($10,000), shall be submitted with each bid. Acceptable Surety Companies are listed in the current issue of the U.S. Department of the Treasury Circular 570.

The successful bidder will be required to furnish and pay for both satisfactory performance and payment bond(s) in the amount equal to 100% of the contract price.

Attention is called to the fact that not less than the minimum salaries and wages as set forth in the contract documents must be paid on this project and that the contractor must ensure that employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

Contractors are reminded that, in accordance with State Law, Alabama General Contractor’s licensing number shall be displayed on the sealed envelope in which the bid is delivered or the bid will not be accepted.

Bids must be submitted on bid forms included in the Project Manual, or copies thereof. Each bid must include the Representations, Certifications, and Other Statements of bidders (HUD 5369-A), Non-Collusive Affidavit and the Previous Participation Certification (HUD 2530) signed by the bidder on the correct HUD forms.

A Pre-Bid Conference followed by an on-site inspection of the premises, will be held on Wednesday, May 13, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at the central office of the Authority. Contractors are highly encouraged to attend the pre-bid meeting but attendance is not mandatory.

The Fairfield Alabama Housing Authority reserves the right to reject any or all bids or to waive any informalities in the bidding.

Bids may be held by the Fairfield Alabama Housing Authority for a period not to exceed thirty (30) days from the date of opening of bids for the purpose of reviewing then and investigating the qualifications of the bidders, prior to awarding the contract.

Fairfield Alabama Housing Authority
Shannon Hackett Eady, Executive Director
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*PUBLIC HOUSING APPLICATIONS
*Will be taken at
JEFFERSON COUNTY HOUSING AUTHORITY
4501 Little Drive
BESSEMER, ALABAMA 35022
(205) 426-8948

Effective Monday, May 18th applications will be accepted for 3 Bedrooms *ONLY for Oak Ridge Apartment Community in Brighton. Applications may be picked up from 8:30 to 4:30 Monday thru Thursday at Terrace Manor Apartments 4501 Little Drive Bessemer, Alabama 35022

*YOU WILL HAVE TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO *BRING THE APPLICATION BACK FOR *PROCESSING.

*Directions
*Take I-20/59 to exit 110 (Alabama Adventure Parkway) turn *onto the Parkway going toward Watermark Outlet get in *left lane then go to Prince Street (you will see a sign that says *Designer Outlets) turn left. Go to the top of the hill to “STOP” *sign and turn right onto Little Drive. Go one block turn *right for office.
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*INVITATION FOR BIDS

The Jefferson County Commission will receive bids for *Pleasant Grove Debris Removal Project at Room 270 of the Jefferson County Courthouse until 9:00 a.m. local time on the 19th day of May, 2015, at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read aloud.

Any bid to be delivered by hand or mail prior to the above time or at a different place shall be at the full risk of the bidder. Such bids may be delivered or mailed to the Jefferson County Office of Community and Economic Development, at 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd N, Suite A-430, Birmingham, Alabama 35203. If for any reason such bid does not reach Room 270 of the Jefferson County Courthouse prior to the opening, it may be rejected. *No *bids shall be accepted after the time stated for receipt *of bids. This requirement shall not be waived.

All bids must be submitted on bid forms furnished, or copy thereof, and must be in a sealed envelope. The outside of the envelope should contain the following:

(1) “SEALED BID”; (2) “DO NOT OPEN”; (3) PROJECT NAME AND NUMBER;(4) PROJECT OFFICER: “Yolanda B. Caver”;
(5) CONTRACTOR’S NAME AND ADDRESS
(6) ALABAMA LICENSE NUMBER (7)DUNS #

Bids are invited upon the work as follows:

Storm debris removal at 18 locations located in the City Limits of Pleasant Grove

Bids must be accompanied by a certified check or bank draft payable to the order of *Jefferson County, Alabama negotiable U.S. Government Bonds (at par value) or a satisfactory Bid Bond executed by the bidder and an acceptable surety, in the amount equal to five percent (5%) of the total of the bid amount but not to exceed $10,000.00, for the *Pleasant Grove Debris Removal Project. The bid security is to become the property of the owner in the event that: (1) the bidder fails to meet any of the qualifications required in the bid specifications stated herein; (2) the bidder misrepresents or falsifies any information required to be provided by the owner; (3) for any reason that the bidder fails to qualify, causing his bid to be withdrawn or rejected and such withdrawal or rejection results in delay or substantial additional expense to the owner; (4) the contract and bond are not executed within the time set forth, as liquidated damages for the delay and additional expense of the owner caused thereby.

Bid documents are on file and will be available for examination at the JEFFERSON COUNTY OFFICE OF COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd N, Suite A-430, Birmingham, Alabama 35203; and at the BIRMINGHAM CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY AUTHORITY, 601 37th Avenue South, Birmingham, Alabama 35222.

The bid package may be obtained by depositing *$50.00 with *Spencer Engineering 3237 Lorna Road Birmingham, AL 35216, *205-822-2437 for each set of documents so obtained. Such deposit will be refunded in full on the first set issued to each general contract bidder submitting a bonafide bid, upon return of documents in good condition within ten days of bid date. Other sets for general contractors, and sets for subcontractors and dealers, may be obtained with the same deposit, which will be refunded as above, less cost of printing, reproduction, handling and distribution of the contract documents.

Bidders are advised that submitted bids bind the bidders to the “Bid Conditions Setting Forth Affirmative Action Requirements for all Non‑Exempt Federal and Federally‑assisted Construction Contracts to be awarded in Jefferson, Shelby and Walker Counties, Alabama, “also known as the Birmingham Hometown Plan.

Attention is called to the fact that not less than the minimum salaries and wages as set forth in the contract documents must be paid on this project, and that the contractor must ensure that employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or veteran status.

All bidders be advised that this contract is subject to Section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development act of 1968, as amended, (12 USC l701U) which if it is in excess of $100,000, requires that to the “greatest extent feasible”, opportunities for training and employment be given lower income residents of the project area and contracts for work in connection with the project be awarded to business concerns which are: (1) 51 percent or more owned by section 3 residents; or (2) Whose permanent, full-time employees include persons, at least 30 percent of whom are currently section 3 residents, or within three years of the date of first employment with the business concern were section 3 residents; or (3) That provides evidence of commitment to subcontract in excess of 25 percent of the dollar award of all subcontracts to be awarded to business concerns that meet the qualifications set forth in paragraphs (1) or (2) in this definition of “section 3 business concern.”

All bidders must be licensed by the State of Alabama Licensing Board of General Contractors, as required by Chapter 8 of Title 34 of the Code of Alabama 1975 as amended.

The Jefferson County Commission reserves the right to reject any or all bids or to waive any informalities in the bidding.

This project will be funded in its entirety (100%) with Federal Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery Funds.

*No Bid may be withdrawn for a period of Sixty (60) days from the date of the opening of bids to allow the Jefferson County Commission to review the bids and investigate the qualifications of bidders, prior to awarding the contract.
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*ADVERTISEMENT for BIDDER PRE-QUALIFICATION
*And NOTICE of INTENT to RECEIVE BIDS
* from PREQUALIFIED BIDDERS

Pre-qualification submittals will be received by the Owner’s Representative/Project Manager, Mike Burgess on behalf of Office of the Associate Vice President, Facilities & Capital Projects, University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the University of Alabama Board of Trustees at UAB Hospital Planning, 2020 University Blvd., Birmingham, AL 35294 until 4:00 PM Central Time May 12, 2015. The original and two (2) duplicates of submittals are required for pre-qualification approval; however, facsimile transmission copies may be transmitted to the Project Manager at (205) 975-7000 to expedite the review process with hard-copies of the submittals to be delivered within 24 hours.

*UAB HIGHLANDS FIRST FLOOR PATIENT INTAKE AND HOLDING
*FOR THE UAB HEALTH SYSTEM
*AT The
*University of Alabama at Birmingham
*Birmingham, Alabama
*Project No.: H155010

*A. SCOPE OF WORK:

The scope of work generally includes miscellaneous interior renovation of an existing Patient Intake and Holding area and associated support spaces with a total of approximately 2,176 s.f. including demolition, new partitions, doors and frames, finishes, and miscellaneous plumbing, HVAC, fire protection, fire alarm, and electrical work. Work will be performed within the operating hospital facility using high levels of infection control measures and the contractor should have experience with the implementation and maintenance of infection control measures and interim life safety measures in a hospital environment as well as experience in performing construction in an operating hospital.

*B. PRIME CONTRACTOR BIDDER PRE-QUALIFICATIONS:

Prime contractor bidders interested in submitting a proposal must apply for pre-qualification and must be licensed under the Provision of Title 34, Chapter 8, and Code of Alabama, 1975. A copy of current Alabama Contractors license is to be included in pre-qualification submittal.

Only prime contractor bidders who have completed the pre-qualification process and that have been approved will be eligible to submit a bid for the Project. Prospective Bidder’s Pre-qualification Package must be received by the Owner’s Project Manager no later than 4:00 PM Central Time, May 12, 2015 after which no further requests will be considered.

Pre-qualification Requirements Information Package may be obtained from the Architect upon letterhead request.

The pre-qualification procedure is intended to identify responsible and competent prime contractor bidders relative to the requirements of the Project. Each prospective prime contractor bidder will be notified of the results of the pre-qualification, no later than May 15, 2015 by 5:00 PM Central Time.

The Owner reserves the right to waive technical errors in applications, or abandon the pre-qualification process, should the interests of the Owner appear to be promoted thereby.

*Progress Design and Construction Documents:
Prior to the pre-qualification deadline, project progress plans and specifications may be examined at the following location:

*Architect:
Birchfield Penuel & Associates
2805 Crescent Avenue, Suite 200
Birmingham, Alabama 35209
Mr. Clay Birchfield
205-870-1876
205-870-3058
clayb@bpa.net

*C. BIDS BY PRE-QUALIFIED PRIME GENERAL CONTRACTOR *BIDDERS

*Documents:
After notice to pre-qualified bidders is given, the pre-qualified prime contractor bidders may obtain bid documents from the Architect (see address above) upon deposit of $100.00 per set. The deposit is refundable in full on the first two (2) sets issued to each prime general contractor bidder upon return of documents in reusable condition within ten (10) days after bid opening. Additional sets for pre-qualified prime contractor bidders, subcontractors, vendors, or dealers may be obtained upon payment of the same deposit. The deposit for additional sets shall be refunded less the cost of printing, reproduction, handling and distribution, upon return of the documents in reusable condition within ten (10) days after bid opening.

Bid documents will be available at the following locations after notice to pre-qualified bidders is given. Drawings and specifications may be examined at the Office of the Architect; at the AGC Internet Plan Room, 5000 Grantswood Road, Irondale, AL 35210; at the Birmingham Construction Industry Authority, 601 37th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35222; and at the Construction Market Data, 30 Technology Pkwy, South, Suite 500, Norcross, GA 30092-2912; and electronically through McGraw-Hill Construction Dodge.

*Bonds:
A certified check or bid bond payable to the University of Alabama at Birmingham in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000 must accompany the bidder’s proposal. Performance and Statutory Labor and Material Payment Bonds will be required at the signing of the Contract.

*Bids:
Bids must be submitted on proposal forms or copies thereof furnished by the Architect. No bid may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids for a period of ninety (90) days. The Owner reserves the right to reject bids if such action is determined to be in the best interest of the Owner. The Owner reserves the right to revoke pre-qualification of any bidder in accordance with Section 39-2-12, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended in 1997 (by Act 97-225). *The Bid Date is June 2, 2015 at 2:00 PM Central Time at the *University of Alabama at Birmingham, UAB Hospital Planning, 2020 *University Blvd., Birmingham, Alabama 35294.

*Proposals may be hand delivered or received by mail on the date of the bid *opening at the Office of Juan DeOnis, Director of Program Planning *Facilities and Capital Projects, 2020 Building, 2020 8th Avenue south, *Birmingham, Alabama 35233, until 12:00 noon. After 12:00 noon of the *date of the bid opening, proposals must be hand delivered and presented at *the bid opening. Sealed proposals shall be submitted in triplicate and shall be *properly identified. All proposals received after 2:00 p.m. on June 2, 2015 *will be returned unopened.

*Fire Alarm Work
In accordance with Title 34, Chapter 33A, of the Code of Alabama 1975, bidders for fire alarm work of this project, if any, must include with their bid, evidence of licensure as required by the act, by including with the bid submittal, a valid State Fire Marshal’s permit.

*D. PRE-BID CONFERENCE
A mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held on May 18, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at the site of the work. Meet at the UAB Highlands Hospital Main Lobby. It is mandatory that all pre-qualified prime contractor bidders attend the Pre-Bid Conference.

*BT05/07/15
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*ADVERTISEMENT for BIDDER PRE-QUALIFICATION
*And NOTICE of INTENT to RECEIVE BIDS
*from PREQUALIFIED BIDDERS

Pre-qualification submittals will be received by the *Owner’s Representative/Project *Manager, Stan Cordrey on behalf of Office of the *Associate Vice President, Facilities *& Capital Projects, University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the University of Alabama Board of Trustees at *UAB Hospital Planning, 2020 University Blvd., Birmingham, AL *35294 until 4:00 PM Central Time May 4, 2015. *The original and two (2) duplicates of submittals are required for pre-qualification approval; however, facsimile transmission copies may be transmitted to the *Project Manager at (205) 975-7000 to expedite the review process with hard-copies of the submittals to be delivered within 24 hours.

*UAB HIGHLANDS PARTIAL ROOF REPLACEMENT
*FOR THE UAB HEALTH SYSTEM
*AT The
*University of Alabama at Birmingham
*Birmingham, Alabama
*Project No.: H155011

*A. SCOPE OF WORK:

The scope of work generally includes replacement of approximately 16,000 square feet of existing roofing, insulation, and associated flashing. Work will be performed above occupied areas of an operating Hospital facility. The Contractor should have experience with the implementation and maintenance of roofing installation and interim life safety measures in a Hospital environment as well as experience in performing roofing installation in an institutional setting.

*B. PRIME CONTRACTOR BIDDER PRE-QUALIFICATIONS:

Only prime contractor bidders who have completed the pre-qualification process and that have been approved will be eligible to submit a bid for the Project. *Prospective Bidder’s Pre-*qualification Package must be received by the *Owner’s *Project Manager no later than 4:00 PM Central Time, May 4, 2015 *after which no further requests will be considered.

Pre-qualification Requirements Information Package may be obtained from the Architect *upon letterhead request.

The Owner reserves the right to waive technical errors in applications, or abandon the pre-qualification process, should the interests of the Owner appear to be promoted thereby.

*Progress Design and Construction Documents:
Prior to the pre-qualification deadline, project progress plans and specifications may be examined at the following location:

*Architect:
Birchfield Penuel & Associates
2805 Crescent Avenue, Suite 200
Birmingham, Alabama 35209
Mr. Clay Birchfield
205-870-1876
205-870-3058
clayb@bpa.net

*C. BIDS BY PRE-QUALIFIED PRIME GENERAL CONTRACTOR BIDDERS

*Documents:
After notice to pre-qualified bidders is given, the pre-qualified prime contractor bidders may obtain bid documents from the Architect (see address above) upon deposit of *$50.00 per set. The deposit is refundable in full on the first two (2) sets issued to each prime general contractor bidder upon return of documents in reusable condition within ten (10) days after bid opening. Additional sets for pre-qualified prime contractor bidders, subcontractors, vendors, or dealers may be obtained upon payment of the same deposit. The deposit for additional sets shall be refunded less the cost of printing, reproduction, handling and distribution, upon return of the documents in reusable condition within ten (10) days after bid opening.

*Bids:
Bids must be submitted on proposal forms or copies thereof furnished by the Architect. No bid may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids for a period of ninety (90) days. The Owner reserves the right to reject bids if such action is determined to be in the best interest of the Owner. The Owner reserves the right to revoke pre-qualification of any bidder in accordance with Section 39-2-12, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended in 1997 (by Act 97-225). *The Bid Date is May 14, *2015 at 2:00 PM Central Time at the *University of *Alabama at Birmingham, UAB Hospital Planning, 2020 *University Blvd., Birmingham, Alabama 35294.

*Proposals may be hand delivered or received by mail on the *date of the bid opening at the Office of Stan Cordrey, *Facilities Planning, 2020 Building, 2020 8th Avenue south, *Birmingham, Alabama 35233, until 12:00 noon. After *12:00 noon of the date of the bid opening, proposals must be *hand delivered and presented at the bid opening. Sealed *proposals shall be submitted in triplicate and shall be *properly identified. All proposals received after 2:00 p.m. *on May 14, 2015 will be returned unopened.

*D. PRE-BID CONFERENCE
*A mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held on May 7, *2015 at 4:00 p.m. at the site of the work. Meet at the UAB *Highlands Hospital Main Lobby. It is mandatory that all pre-qualified prime contractor bidders attend the Pre-Bid Conference.

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Sketches # 1456

Birmingham Times

May 6, 2015

Sketches # 1456

by Senator Hank Sanders

*******************

I wonder why the end of slavery is not celebrated annually in these United States of America? I wonder why the 150th Anniversary of the end of slavery is not celebrated in 2015? I wonder! I wonder!! I wonder!!!The end of slavery was one of the most momentous events in the history of this country. Slavery affected nearly everyone and everything. The end of slavery also affected everyone and everything. Yet, slavery’s end is not celebrated. Not even the 150th Anniversary is being truly celebrated this year. I wonder why.Slavery was at the very core of this country. Individuals struggled with it. Families struggled with it. Leaders of every stripe struggled with it. The Constitution of the United States struggled with it. States struggled with it. The Federal government struggled with it. Great Britain and other nations struggled with it. Many laws were passed supporting slavery. Few were passed opposing it. It was a powerful factor in the American Revolutionary War. The Civil War was fought over slavery. Yet, we do not celebrate the end of slavery in any significant ways.I wonder why.I know that some will immediately point to Emancipation Proclamation programs on New Year’s Day. However, these programs are few and far between and not many attend them. Others will point to Juneteenth Celebrations which also are few and far between with very limited participation. It’s hard to even find other celebrations with any participation at all. I wonder! I wonder!! I wonder!!! I wonder why the end of slavery is not celebrated.In my mind, I wonder if the multiple events that brought slavery to an end are factors in its non-celebration. In my spirit I wonder if the shame of slavery is a lurking cause in our non-celebration of the end of slavery. In my heart, I wonder if the continuing legacy of slavery prevents us from celebrating the end of slavery. I wonder. I wonder. I wonder.The ending of slavery started well before the Civil War. Some states outlawed it. However, the first big official governmental action by the federal government in ending slavery was the Emancipation Proclamation issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863. However, the Proclamation in and of itself, freed few people for it only applied to Confederate states where the Federal Government had no authority to enforce the Proclamation. The slavery states within the Union were exempted from the force of the Proclamation. But many enslaved persons seized upon Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation to forge their own freedom by running away.The next official action taken toward ending slavery came with the conclusion of the Civil War on April 9, 1865. Enslaved persons in Texas did not find out that the war was over until June 19, 1865. That’s the origin of the Juneteenth Celebration. Many thought the war’s end meant the end of slavery. However, the conclusion of the Civil War did not end slavery because the Emancipation Proclamation was only a war measure and its power dissipated with the War’s end. The laws of the land still made slavery legal.The official end of slavery came with the ratification of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution of the United States. The final state required to ratify the 13th Amendment did so on December 6, 1865. However, the official declaration of the ratification by Secretary of State William Seward came on December 18, 1865. Truth be told, most people, including enslaved persons, already felt slavery had ended. I wonder if these multiple events influence our non-celebration of slavery’s end.I wonder if the shame of slavery is a lurking limitation on our celebrating the ending of slavery. Even today, Black people don’t want to talk about slavery. I believe that we are still shamed by the badge of slavery. Even today, White people don’t want to talk about slavery. I believe that many are still shamed by the imposition of this brutal institution. How can we celebrate the end of something that we can’t even talk about. I wonder. I wonder. I wonder.I wonder if the legacy of slavery still constrains us from celebrating the end of slavery. The arms of slavery are so long and powerful that they reach down into this very moment, holding us in a myriad of ways. Slavery officially ended on December 18, 1865 but the legacy of slavery did not end. Usually we celebrate at the conclusion of a victory. How can we celebrate the ending of slavery when the struggle with the legacy of slavery still rages? How can we celebrate when the taste of victory is so sour? I wonder. I wonder. I wonder.Still, it is not enough to just wonder why we don’t celebrate. Whatever the reasons, we must do something to at least commemorate this momentous anniversary of the end of slavery. We simply cannot pass up the occasion of the 150th Anniversary of the ending of slavery. We must do something. I see a celebration/commemoration in the making. Do you see it? EPILOGUE – It’s amazing how things that happened hundreds of years ago can still impact on us profoundly. Slavery still holds sway over us in many ways even after 150 years. We cannot end the power of slavery without first learning to talk about the presence of the legacy of slavery.

A MOTHER’S LOVE

Birmingham Times

May 6, 2015

A MOTHER’S LOVE

Near the cross of Jesus stood His mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and MaryMagdelene.-John 19:25 (NIV) The thunder boomed, the lightening flashed, and the rain poured relentlessly. In the middle of the storm, a country mother ran to the barn, hitched up a buckboard and rode out into the night. The journey before her was a long and dangerous one. She was a Civil War mother who had gotten word that her son had been seriously wounded, andwas in a military hospital many miles away. Her journey took her across creeks raging with water. Sometimes, it seemed like the mud would defeat her, but on she went. At great danger to herself, she approached the enemy’s lines and using the noise of the storm and the darkness of the night, she slipped through them.

THOUGHT FOR THEDAYA mother’s love is akin to God’s.

Finally, she found the hospital. It was crowded with cots filled with suffering and dying soldiers. As she made her way between them, she saw her son. He had been blinded in battle. When shegot to him, she didn’t say a word. She knelt beside him and reached over gently, putting her hand on hishead. Instantly he said, “Mother, I knew you would come! I knew you would come!”Whether it is Mary standing at the foot of the cross, or a country woman searching for her son, amother’s love is very much like God’s love. He comes to us when we need Him and He stands by us through thick and thin.Prayer: Dear God, help us to love as you do. Amen.Dr. Robert Wilkerson, is a minister, writer, and president of People for the Christian Way, from Birmingham, Alabama. drbobwilkerson@bellsouth.net

Make An Impact, Become A Mentor Today! Come out Saturday May 16 and Support.

Birmingham Times

May 5, 2015

A DEVOTED BLACK FATHER IS DENIED THE RIGHT TO PARENT HIS OWN CHILDREN — BECAUSE HE IS BLIND

Birmingham Times

May 5, 2015

A DEVOTED BLACK FATHER IS DENIED THE RIGHT TO PARENT HIS OWN CHILDREN — BECAUSE HE IS BLIND

— Defying sterotypes, then shot down by a biased judge. —

Christopher G. Roberts, a blind father, and his children playing in the park.

New York, NY (BlackNews.com) — The right of the natural parent to the care and custody of his or her child is considered a fundamental right in the United States. In spite of that, a New York Kings County Supreme Judge in Brooklyn has slammed the door on an American fathers right to parent is own children solely it seems because he is blind. The judge, in this case, would insert able and in particular sighted in front of natural parent. No vision, no children sums up the Courts decision, upturning decades of civil rights progress and common sense.

Despite Christopher G. Roberts serving as his son and daughters primary caretaker, when he found himself in front of Justice Eric I. Prus, the judge informed him that because the children were young (then 3 and 2), and Mr. Roberts was blind – the judge was concerned about the children being protected from any hazard. The judge told Mr. Roberts that it was important for someone to be there asserting that Mr. Roberts was less than a full person, not quite a someone in the judges eyes. Remarkably, the judge conditioned Mr. Roberts time with his children be supervised by a sighted nanny who Mr. Roberts was to hire at his own expense. Even though Mr. Roberts was once a primary caretaker, the judge chose to allow him a scant seventeen (17) hours of time with his children and then with each second supervised. Such is the horror that unfolded on May 9th, 2014.

Though we have become accustomed to and even desensitized to – custody disputes as 50% of US marriages end in divorce; in this case there was no mud-slinging in May. In fact, Mr. Roberts’ wife never even had to testify nor say a word that day. Nor were there any records by any agency be it social services or the police, nor from the childrens pediatricians or teachers, suggesting that Mr. Roberts children had ever been endangered because their father was blind. Interestingly enough, Mr. Roberts was a highly sought-after teacher in the arts where he has taught over 2,000 children from preschool through 12th grade in the NYC area. Instead of needing judicial rescue, Mr. Roberts children were both well cared-for, gifted, living in Park Slope attending private pre-school a lifestyle provided for by their blind father. Nonetheless, the judge ordered “family intervention” sending social services to the home they found nothing and ordered all of the childrens time with their father be “supervised” by a sighted nanny. Had Mr. Roberts been unable to pay for a sighted nanny he would have been unable to see his children the children he had been raising at all.

Somehow the fact that tens of thousands of blind parents raise their children every day without sighted supervision was lost to the judge. It is hard to tell how Mr. Roberts’ race (black) and gender (as the father, not the mother) played into his biased decision. Perhaps stereotypes about all of these traits continues to play a hand in this case.

The worldview undergirding the view that blind people are not capable of parenting takes us back to a dark time of US history where eugenics and moral laziness, prescribed involuntary sterilization for those persons deemed lesser than not fully someone.

Still in 2015, laws have had to be proposed from New York to South Carolina to ensure that blind parents children are not denied their natural parents even as an estimated 4 million parents with disabilities raise their children. To ensure that blind parents children are not denied custody because they are unsighted, laws have been proposed in a number of jurisdictions. In the NY state legislature in 2014, New York bill A09371 was introduced by then assembly-member Joan Millman to revise the Family Court Act to prohibit custody decisions solely on the basis of blindness. After the bill was introduced it was referred to the judiciary where no further action was taken. Also in 2014 assembly member Barbara Clark introduced bill A09223 to revise New Yorks Domestic Relations Law to likewise prohibit custody decisions solely on the basis of blindness. Neither bill has been passed yet but Mr. Roberts case shows how crucial such legislation is sadly to simply preserve one of blind parents basic human rights the right to the care and custody of ones own natural children.

Almost a year has passed since Mr. Roberts’ parental rights were stripped – he remains resolved to fully restoring his parental rights. Though he was once a primary caretaker of his children, he now sees them for only 17 hours each week even then his time is supervised by a sighted nanny who he has been ordered to employ. Mr. Roberts also remains physically blind, but many argue that it is the judge who cannot see.

About Christopher G. Roberts:
Christopher G. Roberts has over 23 years of experience in professional theatre. He is the Founder and Producing Artistic Director of Steppingstone Theatre Company (SSTC), a not-for-profit arts organization. He has an MFA degree in acting from Brooklyn College and a BA degree in theater from the University at Buffalo. As an actor, he has appeared on television in shows such as OZ, Sex in the City, “What Would You Do,” in national network commercials, as well as on several daytime dramas. In addition, his regional and international credits include Steppenwolf Theatre in Chicago, McCarter Theater in Princeton, New Jersey, Exile Theater in Northern Ireland and The Manhattan Theater Club.

Christopher is also a playwright; his first full-length play, Reflections of a Heart: The Isaac Woodard Story, was produced off-Broadway at The Clurmen Theatre in June 2010. During his tenure as a director and teacher for various arts institutions and public schools, he has taught over 2,000 children from grades pre-K through 12. Christopher was the Head Accessibility Consultant for Broadway productions such as: Finean’s Rainbow (’09), The Miracle Worker (10), and Catch Me If You Can (’11).

He is also a proud and active member of The Performers with Disabilities Guild and the National Federation of the Blind. Christopher is also featured with one of his two longtime mentors, Stephen McKinley Henderson, as well as with other various well known artists in the groundbreaking book, Acting Teachers of America: A Vital Tradition. Christopher was the Assistant Director for Julliards acclaimed production of August Wilsons Joe Turners Come and Gone, directed by his other mentor, the late Israel Hicks. Christopher’s current and most important role to date is that of a loving and devoted father to his children.

Additional Information:

1) www.inclusioninthearts.org/projects/national-diversity-forum/opinion-pieces/christopher-g-roberts/

2) Parenting Without Sight: What Attorneys and Social Workers Should Know about Blindness:
www.nfb.org/images/nfb/publications/brochures/blindparents/parentingwithoutsight.html

3) Rocking the Cradle: Ensuring the Rights of Parents with Disabilities and Their Children:
www.ncd.gov/publications/2012/Sep272012/

4) Christopher Roberts with his children, 0-3 years old:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=rFG5KGEvK4o

-END-

Part of National Day of Prayer

Birmingham Times

May 5, 2015

Part of National Day of Prayer

Millions Will Come Together on Thursday, May 7 to Pray

for the Country and Its Leaders

PHILADELPHIA—The American Pastors Network (APN, www.americanpastorsnetwork.net) is encouraging pastors and congregations around the country to participate in a National Day of Prayer event in their community and come together to pray on May 7 for the country in a time of turmoil.

“The prayers of Christians have been critical throughout the history of our nation, and they continue to be so today,” said APN president Sam Rohrer, who is also president of the Pennsylvania Pastors Network (PPN, www.papastors.net), “It is so important that pastors encourage their congregations to pray for America, and the National Day of Prayer on May 7 is a time when Christians can come together in agreement and humbly repent of our sins, both individual and national, and petition God for his mercy and guidance for our nation. Find an event in your community, join the faithful in your neighborhood, and lift up our nation to God, that we would return to the biblical and constitutional principles on which our great country was founded.”

To find a National Day of Prayer event in your community, visit http://nationaldayofprayer.org/event-finder/, where events can be searched by zip code or city. The National Day of Prayer is sponsored by the National Day of Prayer Task Force.

For the 2015 Day of Prayer observance, the theme is “Lord, Hear Our Cry,” centering on I Kings 8:28: “Hear the cry and the prayer that your servant is praying in your presence this day.”

“God has promised to listen to a people who come to him in humility and repentance,” Rohrer continued. “Our nation—including many who claim the title ‘Christian’—has arrogantly turned its back on God and on his word, and unless we humble ourselves before the Lord and reject our sinful ways, we will experience the judgement of God, which has already begun in America. Prayer is not a means to get God on our side; prayer is a means to align ourselves with God’s purposes, plans and will. We are running out of time in America to do this before God will remove his hand of blessing from our nation.”

The National Day of Prayer is an annual observance on the first Thursday of May, inviting people of all faiths to pray for the nation, according to the National Day of Prayer web site. It was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of the United States Congress and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. The National Day of Prayer Task Force communicates the need for personal repentance and prayer, creates Day of Prayer materials and resources, and mobilizes the Christian community to intercede for America’s leaders and their families.

The American Pastors Network is the largest, national network of pastors who believe in the authority of scripture; who boldly preach the whole counsel of God with a disciplined application of a biblical worldview to public policy; who are building a permanent infrastructure of biblically faithful pastors and lay leaders; and who are mobilizing congregations to participate in the political process on a non-partisan basis. For more information on APN, visit www.AmericanPastorsNetwork.net, its Facebook page or follow APN’s Twitter feed, @AmericanPastors. Those interested in forming a chapter in their state may contact amy@papastors.net.

The American Pastors Network is a Ministry Program Affiliate of Capstone Legacy Foundation (a 501(c)(3) non-profit Christian Public Community Foundation registered nationwide). Pennsylvania Pastors Network is a state chapter affiliate of the American Pastors Network. APN’s daily short radio feature, “Stand in the Gap,” airs on more than 40 stations, and the American Family Radio Network airs the one-hour “Stand in the Gap Weekend” on 140 additional stations nationwide. A live one-hour program launched in 2015, “Stand in the Gap Today,” airs on several Pennsylvania radio stations.

JEFFERSON COUNTY STUDENTS WIN COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP FROM ALFA

Birmingham Times

May 5, 2015

JEFFERSON COUNTY STUDENTS WIN COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP FROM ALFA

Two Jefferson County students were among 100 recipients of the 2015 Alfa Foundation scholarship. Each scholarship winner received $1,000 in the program’s second year.

Scholarship recipients are Lindsay Higgins of Sylvan Springs, a graduate of Jefferson County International Baccalaureate School and student at Birmingham-Southern College, and Amanda Viikinsalo of Trussville, a graduate of Hewitt Trussville High School and student at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Selection for the competitive scholarship program was based on academic record, participation in school and community activities, honors, work experience and future goals.

“In our household, we know the impact of rising tuition costs, as our son recently graduated college and our daughter will be a college freshman this fall,” said Jimmy Parnell, president of Alfa Insurance. “We hope our gift will make it easier for the recipients to focus on studies and gaining professional experience, rather than worrying about paying for their education.”

More than 1,300 applications were received for the scholarship program from high school seniors and post-secondary undergraduates enrolled or planning to enroll in an Alabama two- or four-year college, university or technical school.

The scholarship may be used for tuition, fees, books and supplies required for coursework.

For almost 70 years, Alfa has proudly supported education by being active in the communities it serves. The Alfa Foundation has helped advance learning through the Teacher of the Year and Teacher of the Month programs; investments in colleges and universities; support for career technical education; and other efforts.

# # #

Lindsay Higgins of Sylvan Springs, a graduate of Jefferson County International Baccalaureate School and student at Birmingham-Southern College, and Amanda Viikinsalo of Trussville, a graduate of Hewitt Trussville High School and student at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

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