Classified

April 23, 2015

**Employment

*Appliance Tech-Experienced
*$15.00 hour; M-F 8-5
*Email: recruitcdla@gmail.com
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**CATERING SERVICE
*Rae Rae’s Catering
All Events – Weddings –
Family Reunions – Etc.
*205-266-0831or 205-587-7503
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** FOR RENT

*”Beautiful 3bdr/1bth house for rent
in Hueytown with w/d connection, deck, and
carport. Hueytown schools. *(205-565-8852) Jeremy.”
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*WANTED MEMORABILIA

*Negro Baseball Memorabilia

*NEED NEGRO BASEBALL ITEMS
*UNIFORMS, POSTERS, GLOVES, *ETC. CHARLES REED 205-527-2498
*FAIR PRICES PAID!
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*Ga. Boy Prophet
*Spiritual Counselor, Rootworker
*Spiritual services includes:

*Consultations
*Individually, Custom-made
*Mojo Bags
*Oils
*Powders
*Candle(setting lights)
*Tailsman

*100% private and confidential
*Call: 229-603-2591

write:
GA. Boy Prophet
P.O. Box 4608
Albany, Georgia 31701
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**PUBLIC NOTICE

*CITY OF BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA
*DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
*PUBLIC NOTICE AND
*7 DAY COMMENT PERIOD
Since the April 27, 2011, tornado outbreak the City of Birmingham has worked diligently with various organizations and citizens who were directly and indirectly impacted by the natural disaster. These efforts include the very interactive R/UDAT Planning effort. The City of Birmingham has worked hard to determine the greatest disaster recovery needs and how to address those needs. These interactions have been useful in the past and shall continue to be beneficial in the future. Through public comments and interactions with the citizens of the affected area, the City of Birmingham has determined the critical need for assistance to repair homes, public facilities, and infrastructure.
The City has made available the 2012 allocation Action Plan with proposed amendments in Attachment D on its website at * www.birminghamal.gov at the Birmingham Public Library and at the Birmingham City Hall located at 710 20th Street North Room 1000 Birmingham, Al 35203. The City will receive comments on this Action Plan and will include all comments in the Final submittal to HUD. The comment period will be open for a minimum of seven days beginning on April 15, 2015 and closing on April 27, 2015.
Comments may be submitted via email at * communitydevelopment@birminghamal.gov, by fax at 205-254-2717, or in writing to the following address:
Community Development Department
Disaster Recovery Comments
City Hall/Room 1000
710 20th Street North
Birmingham, AL 35203
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*NOTICE OF COMPLETION

In accordance with Chapter 1 Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, notice is herby given that Bennett Building, Inc., Contractor, has completed the contract for the Cafeteria Renovations for Erwin Middle School, for the State of Alabama and the Jefferson County Board of Education, owners, and have made request for final settlement of said contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify Lathan Associates Architects, PC located at 1550 Woods of Riverchase Dr #200 Hoover, AL 35244.
*Bennett Building, Inc.
*120 Shady Acres Road
*Alabaster, AL 35007
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**PUBLIC NOTICE

Jefferson County, Alabama
Office of Community & Economic Development
Amended Final Statement of Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) Objectives and Projected Use of Funds

CDBG-DR Program Year 2012 Amendment #3 and Program Year 2013 Amendment #1

The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development requires that in order to receive funding under the Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG), the Home Investment Partnerships Program (HOME), the Emergency Shelter Grant Program (ESG), the Emergency Solutions Grant Program (ESG), and the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS Program (HOPWA), each entitlement city or urban county must prepare a Consolidated Plan. This Plan was prepared in the year 2010. The Plan identifies housing and non-housing needs over a five year period, assigns priorities to each of the needs and a strategy for meeting those needs, and sets out a one year Action Plan establishing funding. The overall goal of the community development programs is to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment and expanding economic opportunities, principally for low- and moderate-income persons. This Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) Action Plan following approval by HUD will become a part of that plan.

The Jefferson County Consortium is made up of the unincorporated areas of Jefferson County, Alabama and 30 municipalities within the County. The Cities of Birmingham, Bessemer, County Line, Argo, Sumiton, Helena and Hoover are the only cities in the County not participating in the Consortium. Birmingham, Bessemer and Hoover are entitlement cities themselves. However, due to the nature of the CDBG-DR program, assistance will only be made available to designated areas within the Jefferson County Consortium as described in Section I. Impact and Unmet Needs Assessment. The Final Amended Statement for the CDBG-DR Grants will be developed after receiving citizen comments and views during the 7-day comment period and also at a public hearing to be held on April 27, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at the Jefferson County Office of Community & Economic Development 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North, Suite A-420, Birmingham, Alabama, 35203.

Written comments regarding the proposed plan must be received prior to 5:00 PM on May 1, 2015. Written comments should be submitted via U.S. Postal Service to the following:

Proposed CDBG-Disaster Recovery
Jefferson County Office of Community & Economic Development
716 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N, Ste. A-430
Birmingham, AL 35203
Attn: Yolanda B. Caver

Written comments can also be submitted prior to 5:00 PM on May 1, 2015 by electronic submission to the following: To: burrellsy@jccal.org, Subject: CDBG-DR Comments.

Special accommodations can be made available, upon request, for those with disabilities. Those needing special accommodations should contact the office at 205-325-5761 in advance.

Special accommodations are available, upon request, for those with disabilities and for those with limited English proficiency. Those requiring special accommodations or questions regarding the Plan, should call 325-5761 in advance for assistance.

AVAILABILITY OF THE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS

Copies of amendments and summaries may be reviewed at the Jefferson County Office of Community & Economic Development, 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North – Suite A430, Birmingham, AL 35203, by calling 325-5761, or online at http://jeffconline.jccal.org/comdev/main/non-housing.html. Arrangements can also be made to meet the Special Needs Requirements of those with disabilities. Those in this category should contact the Office of Community Development at the above address and telephone number.

a) The Final Amended Use of Funds stated herein has been developed so as to give maximum feasible priority to activities which will principally benefit low and moderate income persons and families.

The purpose of these Amendments is to delete activities, add activities, decrease funding in certain activities, and increase funding in other activities.

Jimmie Stephens, President
Jefferson County Commission
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**Legals

*PUBLIC NOTICE

*NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT AND NOTICE OF *INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS
Thursday, April 23, 2015
Jefferson County Office of Community & Economic Development
716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North, Room A-430
Birmingham, AL 35203
(205) 325-5761
These notices shall satisfy two separate but related procedural requirements for activities to be undertaken by the Jefferson County Office of Community& Economic Development.

*REQUEST FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS
On or about Friday, May 8, 2015, the Jefferson County Commission, acting as Community Development agent for Jefferson County and Consortium municipalities, will submit a request to the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development for the release of Federal Community Development Block Grant Recovery funds under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 (PL93-383) to undertake the following projects:

*Adger Storm Shelter Project

*FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT
The Jefferson County Commission through its Office of Community & Economic Development has determined that the project will have no significant impact on the human environment. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required. Additional project information is contained in the Environmental Review Record (ERR) on file at the Jefferson County Office of Community & Economic Development, 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North – Room A-430, Birmingham, AL 35203 where the record is available for review and may be examined or copied weekdays 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.

*PUBLIC COMMENTS
Any individual, group, or agency disagreeing with this determination or wishing to comment on the project may submit written comments to the Jefferson County Office of Community & Economic Development. All comments received by May 8, 2015, will be considered by the Jefferson County Office of Community & Economic Development prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds. Comments should specify which Notice they are addressing.

*RELEASE OF FUNDS
The Jefferson County Commission through its Office of Community & Economic Development certifies to HUD that the President of the Jefferson County Commission consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. HUD’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities, and allows the Jefferson County Commission to use Program funds.

*OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS
HUD will accept objections to its release of funds and the Jefferson County Commission’s certification for a period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (which ever is later) only if they are on one of the following basis: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the Jefferson County Commission; (b) the Jefferson County Commission has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58; (c) the grant recipient has committed funds or incurred costs not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of release of funds by HUD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58) and shall be addressed to: Environmental Clearance, Mr. Charles Franklin, CPD Director, U.S. Department of HUD, Birmingham Office, Region IV, Medical Forum Building, Suite 900, 950 22nd Street North, Birmingham, AL 35203. Potential objectors should contact HUD to verify the actual last date of the objection period.

James A. Stephens, President
Jefferson County Commission
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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:

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.

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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:

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
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. To be included in pre-qualification submittal.

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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*Request for Proposal
*Supportive Services Program
*Deadline: Tuesday, April 28, 2015

       Jefferson County Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Area (JCWIOA) office is issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) to qualified respondents interested in providing supportive services to eligible participants in Jefferson County for the period of July 01, 2015 through June 30, 2016.
        The RFP information packet will be available Thursday, April 16, 2015 at the JCWIOA office at 3420 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35222 or it may be downloaded at: jeffconline.jccal.org/Default.asp?ID=1255&pg=Requests+for+Proposals%2FQualificationsj
         Proposals are due by *4 p.m., Tuesday, April 28, 2015.
         A Bidders Conference will be held Monday, April 20, 2015 at 10 a.m. at Jefferson County Workforce Development, *3420 3rd Avenue South, Second Floor, Birmingham, AL *35222.

***DOORS WILL BE CLOSED AT 10:00 AND NO OTHERS WILL BE ADMITTED***
*For more information, please contact Keith Strother at *(205) 307-6701
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BREAKING NEWS ~ Let’s Vote Idol

Birmingham Times

April 22, 2015

PRESIDENT’S ALERT TO NNPA PUBLISHERS

WEDNESDAY – APRIL 22, 2015

TONIGHT WATCH AND VOTE: AMERICAN IDOLLET’S FLEX THE NNPA’S NATIONAL SOCIAL MEDIA MUSCLE AFRICAN AMERICAN FINALISTS NEED MILLIONS OF VOTES

Message from Executive Publisher of the LA Sentinel & Chairman Emeritus of NNPA, Danny J. Bakewell, Sr.:

Message from Executive Publisher of the LA Sentinel &; Chairman Emeritus of NNPA, Danny J. Bakewell, Sr.: “The Black Press (represented by the LA Sentinel) is alive and well and covering American Idol behind the scenes at the studio with live interviews. Please share this video with your readers – all 19.8 million Black Press readers on social media. Encourage them to watch and vote for these talented young African American kids (3 African American finalists among the 6 remaining contestants) is a precedent. We want the BlackPress to show its strength and keep the momentum going. When we’re there (LA Sentinel), you’re there (NNPA). TONIGHT WATCH AND VOTE: AMERICAN IDOL. Please watch and vote during the and vote during the broadcast. #OurVoice75

Thank you. Sincerely,Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., President and CEONational Newspaper Publishers Association

COURT APPROVES CONSENT ORDER TO FURTHER DESEGREGATE AND ADDRESS RACIAL INEQUALITIES IN HUNTSVILLE CITY SCHOOLS

Birmingham Times

April 22, 2015

COURT APPROVES CONSENT ORDER TO FURTHER DESEGREGATE AND ADDRESS RACIAL INEQUALITIES IN HUNTSVILLE CITY SCHOOLS

WASHINGTON – The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama has approved a consent order filed by the U.S. Department of Justice and the Huntsville City Schools to reconfigure school attendance zones, improve access to quality course offerings and address racial discrimination in student discipline, among other areas.

In a 29-page opinion approving the consent order, U.S. District Judge Madeleine Hughes Haikala of the Northern District of Alabama called the plan a “game-changer” in the effort to finally eliminate the effects of state-mandated racial segregation in Huntsville. As the court noted, “the record demonstrates that full and faithful execution of the proposed consent order will enable the district to eliminate the effects of segregation “root and branch” and will pave the way toward a declaration of unitary status…. Now it is up to the district to act.”

The consent order, which amends the longstanding desegregation order in Hereford v. Huntsville Board of Education, resolves the parties’ dispute over the district’s 2014 plan to redraw student attendance zones. The department objected to the plan because it did not further desegregation or remedy racial inequalities in students’ access to quality academic offerings. The consent order was approved by the court after a far-reaching investigation by the department and months of mediation. It will require the district to provide equal educational opportunities to African-American students by:

· revising attendance zones and growing and strengthening magnet programs to improve diversity at many of its schools;

· expanding access for African-American students to pre-kindergarten, gifted programs, advanced course offerings such as Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate, academic after-school programs, and college counseling;

· implementing measures to promote faculty and administrator diversity;

· ensuring that all students are aware of and can equally participate in extracurricular activities;

· creating positive, inclusive school climates, and ensuring that student discipline is fair, non-discriminatory and does not unnecessarily remove students from classrooms;

· establishing a desegregation advisory committee of students and parents to advise the district and inform the court about implementation of the consent order;

· providing professional development for teachers on such topics as strategies for teaching students from diverse backgrounds, understanding implicit bias and supporting positive student behavior; and

· continuously monitoring racial disparities to ensure meaningful and sustained improvement in student performance, students’ access to courses and rates of student discipline and other areas.

Judge Haikala’s opinion approving the consent order spoke directly to the students saying, “The consent order begins and ends with the district’s students – all of its students…The district believes in you and in your potential for success. We all do…. Think about how much the City of Huntsville will benefit from the contributions that you will make in the years ahead as teachers and engineers, as doctors and lawyers, as artists and musicians. You are an integral part of your community and have so much to offer.”

“This agreement provides for comprehensive remedies that are long overdue for African-American students in Huntsville,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta of the Civil Rights Division. “We at the Civil Rights Division look forward to working with the district, the students and the community to implement the consent decree, instill equity and fairness in Huntsville schools, and strengthen the education provided to all students.”

“All of our children deserve the best possible educational opportunities,” said U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance of the Northern District of Alabama. “Our communities and our future are strengthened and improved when parties come together, as the Justice Department and Huntsville City Schools did here, to ensure that all children have equal access to quality education.”

The department will monitor and enforce the district’s compliance. The school district may seek a declaration of unitary status and dismissal of the case when it can demonstrate sustained compliance with the terms of the consent order.

The enforcement of Title IV of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race and other factors in public schools, is a top priority of the department’s Civil Rights Division. Additional information about the Civil Rights Division of the department is available on its web site at www.justice.gov/crt.

Bobby Brown’s Lawyer Confirms Bobbi Kristina Has Opened Her Eyes

Birmingham Times

April 22, 2015

According to blackamericaweb.com

ATLANTA (AP) — Bobby Brown’s lawyer issued a statement Monday saying the singer’s daughter has “opened her eyes” nearly three months after being found unresponsive in a bathtub in her Georgia home.

Attorney Christopher Brown said he issued the statement to clarify comments the singer made during a concert over the weekend about his daughter’s condition. The statement goes on to say that “there has been improvement” in her condition.

However, it also adds that Bobbi Kristina Brown is just now beginning rehabilitation “and the quality of her life will not be known for years to come.”

Bobbi Kristina Brown is the only child of Bobby Brown and the late Whitney Houston.

Houston was found face-down and unresponsive in about a foot of water in a bathtub in a Beverly Hills hotel room Feb. 11, 2012, just before the Grammys. She later died, and authorities concluded she had accidentally drowned. Investigators found a dozen prescription-drug bottles in the suite and listed heart disease and cocaine use as contributors to her death.

On Saturday night, an emotional Bobby Brown told concertgoers that Bobbi Kristina was “awake” and “she is watching me.”

Bobby Brown’s wife, Alicia Etheredge-Brown, added in the statement that during the concert, Brown “made an attempt to correct the negative comments he must endure on a daily basis from both family and the public regarding his daughter’s medical condition.”

“He is encouraged by the steps that Bobbi Kristina has made since her hospitalization on January 31, 2015,” Etheredge-Brown said. “She has made it out of ICU, opened her eyes, and started a rehabilitation that will be long and hard.”

People, Places and Things

Birmingham Times

April 21, 2015

People, Places and Things

By Gwen DeRu

REMEMBER TALLADEGA SUPERSPEEDWAY RACES MAY 1 -3!!

SEE YOU THERE!!

CELEBRATE EARTH DAY SATURDAY!!!

There are always plenty of things to do around the southeast. Here are a few things going on in town…

(Photo Credit: lab344.com)

ROBERTA FLACK AT THE BJCC CONCERT HALL, SATURDAY!!
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WOMEN AND GIRLS BUSINESS NEETWORK – YOU ARE INVITED! Join the women in Birmingham every third Thursday Noon, at UAB, 1919 University Blvd., for a networking session with a motivating speaker and lunch. This week enjoy KEISA SHARPE, Owner of Love My Own Hair, Inc. Sharpe is an author, speaker and former Birmingham newscaster. Call (205) 934-8535 or 975-7869 for more details. Ask for Yvonne Lowery Kennedy. FREE. (Tell them Gwen sent you.)
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DANIEL PAYNE PLAZA DEDICATION – The Ninth Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME) officially dedicates its new complex – Daniel Payne Community Plaza, TODAY, 3 p.m. at 1500 Daniel Payne Drive in Birmingham. The laying of the cornerstone is a part of a three-day observance, ‘Celebrating the AME Difference: Connecting Christ, Church and Community” from today to Sunday. The Daniel Payne Community Plaza is the former Daniel Payne Middle School. The plaza is named for the Sixth Bishop of the AME Church, Bishop Daniel Alexander Payne, who was one of the founders and former presidents of Wilberforce University in Ohio. Birmingham Mayor William Bell, State Representative Juandalynn Givan, Bishop James L. Davis, other dignitaries of the AME church, community leaders, clergy and members will be present.
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BCRI LECTURE BY DR. CHARLES McKINNEY – The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is hosting Dr. Charles McKinney, TODAY, 7 p.m. in the BCRI Woods Community Meeting Room. The lecture is entitled Chasing Dreams: African Americans and the Perpetual Pursuit of Voting Rights. Dr. McKinney is a respected scholar and lecturer on the Black Experiences in America.
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RIVALS FOR WISHES – Join the fans of the University of Alabama and Auburn University for ‘one’ night of fun at the Regions Field, 5:30 – 9 p.m., TODAY, with MAKE-A-WISH ALABAMA’s efforts, live music, auctions and lots of surprises.
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AMERICAN ADVERTISING FEDERATION HOSTS BUDDY PALMER – Buddy Palmer, Create Birmingham, will speak at the AAF luncheon, FRIDAY, 11:30 a.m. at the Vulcan Park and Museum. Palmer will speak about the Birmingham’s recent creative industries report and the new direction and rebranding of Create Birmingham. Create Birmingham is the former Cultural Alliance of Greater Birmingham.
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DARTER FESTIVAL – (I remember when the children had to do a project on Birmingham’s native fish a DARTER, I found out plenty.) NOW, there is a festival hosted by the Southern Environmental Center, SATURDAY, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., at Railroad Park. It is a celebration of the South’s biodiversity and one of its native fish – Watercress Darter. It will feature darter art, kite flying, a bicycle parade and live music by the BANDITOS. Good People even has a Darter Ale. My, My!!
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EARTHFEST – Black Warrior Riverkeeper will host a Earth Day event, Saturdy, 2-6:30 p.m. at the Avondale Brewing Company, with live music, clean water, local food, beer and art. Proceeds support Black Warrior efforts.
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CITY OF IRONDALE SPRING FEST – The City of Irondale is hosting its Irondale Spring Fest SATURDAY, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. at the Grant’s Mill Station on Beacon Drive. Enjoy a family-friendly event, live music, food and arts and crafts. FREE.
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NOW…on to the rest of the happenings….

FOR OUTDOOR LOVERS….
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**YOGA ON THE TRAIL – A MORNING IN NATURE – There will be yoga, mediation and service at Ruffner Mountain on Sunday, 8 a.m. FREE. There will be a Ruffner Planting Project at 10:30 a.m. and a Box Lunch Picninc at 11:30 a.m. Bring your refillable water bottle. Go to sweetomalabama.org for more.
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**CANOE TRIP, SATURDAY, 10 a.m., Southeastern Outings Kayak and Canoe Trip at Cahaba River, Grants Mill Road to River Run. This moderate 7.5 mile trip on the Cahaba River is near Birmingham in Jefferson County near Mountain Brook. It is fairly easy and without classified rapids. Enjoy the wilderness scenery and expect to see lots of wildflowers. Please arrive at the Sam’s Wholesale Club, 3900 Hubert Kilgore Memorial Drive at exit #133 off I-20 East in Irondale before 9:45 a.m.
Reservations Required: Contact trip leader David Freeman, 205/491-8845 or email David.Freeman@bellsouth.net for details, bad weather rescheduling, more info or cancellations.
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**WILDFLOWER WALK, SUNDAY, 2:30 p.m., Southeastern Outings Wildflower Walk in a Forest Preserve in Homewood – The City of Homewood owns two forest preserves on Shades Mountain adjacent to the Homewood High School. Spend a relaxing two hours walking and admiring wildflowers in the lower preserve. Rated moderately easy. Well-behaved, carefully supervised children age 6 and older welcome. Meet 2:30 p.m. in the Homewood High School east (nearest Brookwood Village Shopping Center) parking lot, just off Lakeshore Drive in Homewood. For more info contact Mary Alice Thurman at (205) 823-5165.
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SAVE THE DATES…..

CRUISE IN ALABAMA – An ‘80s vs ‘90s throwback cruise is April 25th aboard the Harriott II in Montgomery. The cruise will feature a live DJ, VIP section, live entertainment, comedy, and more. DJ services will be provided by Birmingham’s own DJ Dre Smoove and DJ Big Show from Tuskegee. Hope to see you on the cruise this year! For more information, call (1-888-946-9655, Ext 813 or go to goyollo.com).
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FOR GOLFERS….

**IN BIRMINGHAM…

Today is the last day of the 4th ANNUAL CITY OF BIRMINGHAM MAYOR’S CHARITY GOLF CLASSIC at the Highland Park Golf Course. The tournament supports the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and Sickle Cell Foundation to help fund ongoing research towards treatment and finding cures for both diseases.
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**GLOW ON THE GREEN – Big Brothers and Big Sisters host its annual Glow on the Green Night Golf Tournament, 5:30, Friday, with BBQ, drinks, live music, raffles and night golf.
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FOR LOVERS OF ART, MUSIC, FOOD AND MORE…

It’s Springtime…. Get out and enjoy when and what you can!

**WIND DOWN THURSDAYS – Every 3rd Thursday is Wine Down Thursday at the Wells Fargo Tower, 420 – 20th Street North, 5:30 – 8 p.m. This week’s topic is Marketing and Branding Your Business. FREE.
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**SPRING ART SHOW – The 34th Annual Spring Art Festival is hosted by Mountain Brook Art Association on Saturday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Crestline Field. Enjoy art, vendors, live jazz, and food trucks.
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AT THE BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM OF ART…

**GALLERY TALKS WITH ARTHUR WHEELOCK – Join the BMA as they welcome the National Gallery of Arts leading scholar on Johannes Vermeer, Dr. Wheelock, Saturday, 6 p.m. at the final After Hours of SMALL TREASURES with tapas, cocktails, and open galleries until 9 p.m.
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**CONCERT–MUSICAL TREASURES FROM 17TH CENTURY NETHERLANDS – The Birmingham Music Club presents a chamber concert of music that complements the exhibition, Small treasures: Rembrandt, Vermeer, Hals and Their Contemporaries. Listen to the music that would have been played during the time of the Dutch Masters on Sunday.
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**OUT WITH THE CROWD – Celebrate the Birmingham Baron’s season at the Museum with a small exhibition dedicated to the sport of baseball. ‘Out with the Crowd’ features 14 photographs by David Levinthal and one large-scaled mixed-media piece by Radcliffe Bailey….now through May17. FREE.
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**ART ON THE ROCKS….COMING SOON!!
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AT THE BIRMINGHAM CIVIL RIGHTS INSTITUTE…

**WALKING TOURS – Join the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute every Saturday in April at 11 a.m. for a FREE Walking Tours of the BCRI and the Fourth Avenue Business District. The free Hour long tour begins at the main entrance to the BCRI located at 520 16th Street North, 35210. The tours are led by BARRY MCNEALY.
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(Photo Frank X. Walker)

**FRANK X. WALKER – KENTUCKY’S FIRST AFRICAN AMERICAN POET LAUREATE – The Birmingham Civil Rights (BCRI) will present a reading and book signing by Frank X. Walker on Monday, at 6 p.m. in BCRI’s Woods Community Meeting Room. In 2014, Walker was named Kentucky’s youngest and first African American Poet Laureate. He also received an NAACP Image Award for his book Turn Me Loose: The Unghosting of Medgar Evers. Voted one of the most creative professors in the south, Walker is a full professor in the Department of English and director of the African American and Africana studies program at the University of Kentucky. The reading and book signing are free and open to the public and registration is available at www.bcri.org.
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**20th ANNUAL BCRI JUNETEENTH – The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute will host its annual Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 6, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. at Kelly Ingram Park. FREE. It is a family festival with food vendors, children’s activities, music and contests. For more, call (205) 328-9696 x234. This is a Celebration of 150 Years of Freedom 1865-2015.
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FOR MUSIC LOVERS…

CHECK OUT….the TIDE AND TIGER every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday on Graymont.

HERE ARE A FEW MORE THINGS GOING ON…THIS WEEKEND…

TODAY…
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**TIDE AND TIGER LOUNGE, 8 p.m. on Graymont Avenue across the street from Legion Field. Open Tuesday through Sunday.
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**UAB JAZZ BAND at Ona’s Music Room. (It’s the Crooning for Critters Celebration.)
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**Squidling Brothers Circus Sideshow at The Nick.
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FRIDAY…

**SARAH GREEN & THE SUNDAY LOVERS with SAM GUNDERSON at Ona’s Music Room.
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**JESSE DAYTON (feat. John Evans & Mike Stinson from Austin TX) and HONEYHONEY, with a late night show featuring Rebirth Brass Band at The Nick on southside.
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SATURDAY…
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**SARAH GREEN & THE SUNDAY LOVERS with SAM GUNDERSON at Ona’s Music Room.
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**TIDE AND TIGER LOUNGE, 8 p.m. on Graymont Avenue across the street from Legion Field. Open Tuesday through Sunday.

**American Animal, Kyle Kimbrell, Stop Light Observations at The Nick.
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SUNDAY…
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**Future Thieves and Cahaba at the Nick.

FOR COMEDY LOVERS…

DON’T MISS….
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**BLACK AND BROWN COMEDY TOUR ‘GET DOWN’ starring CEDRIC THE ENTERTAINER, MIKE EPPS, EDDIE GRIFFIN, D.L. HUGHLEY, GEORGE LOPEZ and CHARLIE MURPHY at the BJCC Legacy Arena, May 8, 8 p.m.

(Photo: Carlos Mencia)

**AT THE STARDOME…, this weekend…

CARLOS MENCIA
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COMING SOON…, CINDY KAZA – April 18, May 16 and June 13, BIG ED CAYLOR – April 23-26, LIL DUVALL – May 1-3, JAMES GREGORY – May 8-9, AVERY SUNSHINE – May 10, JAMES GREGORY – May 15-16, ARIES SPEARS – May 22-24, STEVE BROWN – June 2-7, JON REEP – June 12-13. (Tell Bruce that Gwen sent you.) Enjoy some good laughter and fun times while you eat some great food with your friends. For more, call (205) 444-0008.
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HAVE A HAPPY EARTH DAY WEEKEND!1

NOW…. BIRTHDAY SHOUT OUTS!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU…. AND TO ALL CELEBRATING!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ALL YOU BIRTHDAY BALLERS…MANY, MANY MORE HAPPY BIRTHDAYS!! ENJOY!! Celebrate ‘your’ month…I do…all 30 days ‘and’ some!

Well, that’s it. Tell you more ‘next’ time.

(People, Places and Things by Gwen DeRu is a weekly column. Send comments to my emails: thelewisgroup@birminghamtimes.com or gwenderu@yahoo.com.

What’s Happening at Talladega Superspeedway and in motorsports with Gwen DeRu!

Birmingham Times

April 21, 2015

Captain Keith Hoskins

What’s Happening at Talladega Superspeedway and in motorsports with Gwen DeRu!

Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola Captain Keith Hoskins to Award Freedom Trophy to Talladega Superspeedway’s GEICO 500 Winner

The Freedom Trophy, Talladega Superspeedway’s newest tradition, will be presented to the winner of the GEICO 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race on Sunday, May 3, by Captain Keith Hoskins, Commanding Officer of Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla.
A year ago, Talladega Superspeedway track officials proudly announced the creation of the Freedom Trophy, which is awarded to each NASCAR Sprint Cup Series winner at NASCAR’s Most Competitive track by a member of one of our country’s five military branches. Talladega is known for its history, tradition, prestige and honor – all of which come with winning a NASCAR Sprint Cup race at the biggest and baddest track on the planet.
Hoskins, who has accumulated more than 3,400 flight hours as a pilot, has decorations that include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (three awards), Air Medal (three awards with combat “V”), Navy Commendation Medal (three awards with combat “V”), Navy Achievement Medal (two awards), and numerous unit commendations and awards. After being commissioned at the completion of Aviation Officer Candidate School in September 1989, he was designated a naval aviator in February 1992 in Kingsville, Texas. He has flown in combat missions, been an instructor pilot and was part of the Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron – the Blue Angels – for three seasons (1999-2001).
He was responsible for writing, assessing and disseminating high-level policy during U.S. STRATCOM’s restructuring in the midst of the Global War on Terrorism, and in 2007, and he assumed the command tour of VFA-15, leading his squadron in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He was selected the 2010 honorary graduate of the United States Naval Academy and later served at the Naval Service Training Command as the national director of NROTC programs until taking command of NAS Pensacola.
“We are extremely proud to continue the prestigious Freedom Trophy tradition here at Talladega Superspeedway,” said track Chairman Grant Lynch. “There’s nothing we like more than showing support for our country’s troops who fight each and every day for our freedom so that we can put on NASCAR events here. They deserve all the recognition in the world. We can’t wait to have Captain Hoskins with us for the GEICO 500.”
The Freedom Trophy is a spectacular work of art. Silver aluminum panels, complete with a design of each military branch soldier and branch logo, are showcased, along with a star that is a waterjet cut in the center. Black stained wood makes up the trophy’s base, with circular discs at the bottom and top made of black acrylic, and includes the Talladega Superspeedway logo, the date of the race and the name of the base awarding the trophy.
Talladega Superspeedway has always proudly brought patriotic elements to the grand 2.66-mile venue, showcasing some of the most recognizable displays to celebrate troops in all of NASCAR. Talladega works closely with numerous military bases throughout the southeast to bring members of the military to the historic venue.
In addition to recognizing the military through the Freedom Trophy, Talladega Superspeedway is proud to offer special ticket prices for all members of the military and their families for its race weekends. For more information, visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com/military.
Talladega’s weekend kicks off on Friday (May 1) with practice sessions for the GEICO 500 (NASCAR Sprint Cup Series) and Winn-Dixie 300 (NASCAR XFINITY Series), as well as practice, qualifying and green flag for the International Motorsports Hall of Fame 200 ARCA Racing Series Presented by Menards event, set to start at 5 pm (CST). The evening concludes with “The “Big One on the Blvd” Mardi Gras-style parade, which will feature NASCAR drivers and fan competitions on the track’s infield Talladega Blvd.
Saturday’s slate includes qualifying for the GEICO 500 and Winn-Dixie 300, followed by the start of the Winn-Dixie 300 at 2 p.m. (CST). The day concludes in the evening with the Talladega Superspeedway traditional Infield Concert featuring country music artist Chase Rice. The concert is free with the purchase of a Sunday GEICO 500 (12 noon CST start) admission ticket. For ticket information, call 1-877-Go2-DEGA or visit www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.

Birmingham Times

April 21, 2015

Blue Bell recalls all ice cream products amid deadly listeria outbreak

Report from The Christian Science Monitor:

Blue Bell Ice Cream is expanding an earlier recall to include all of its products due to a listeria outbreak that has been linked to several sicknesses and at least five deaths. The recall affects Blue Bell products sold in 23 states and some international markets.

By Schuyler Velasco, Staff writer April 21, 2015

Orlin Wagner/AP/File

View Caption

Ice Cream maker Blue Bell is pulling all of its ice cream, frozen yogurt, sherbet, and other frozen snack products off store shelves, expanding an earlier recall linked a listeria outbreak reported by the Centers for Disease Control in Texas and Oklahoma. The outbreak has been linked to several illnesses and at least five deaths.

“We’re committed to doing the 100 percent right thing, and the best way to do that is to take all of our products off the market until we can be confident that they are all safe,” said Paul Kruse, Blue Bell CEO and president, said in a company statement issued Monday. “We are heartbroken about this situation and apologize to all of our loyal Blue Bell fans and customers. We want enjoying our ice cream to be a source of joy and pleasure, never a cause for concern, so we are committed to getting this right.”

The recalled products were sold at retail outlets in 23 states: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Wyoming, as well as in international locations including the Philippines.

The recall expands on several recalls issued earlier this year by the Brenham, Texas-based company. Blue Bell began pulling certain products off shelves in mid-March after CDC officials linked certain products manufactured in one of Blue Bell’s Texas plants to listeria in Kansas hospital patients between January 2014 and January 2015. On March 23, the company issued a second recall after listeria strains were found at another company plant in Broken Arrow, Okla. The latest recall was issued as a result of an expanded testing system within the company found listeria in two lots of Blue Bell’s cookie dough ice cream, manufactured on March 17, 2015, and March 27, 2015. “This means Blue Bell has now had several positive tests for Listeria in different places and plants,” the company said in a statement.

Listeria is a food-borne bacteria commonly found in fruits, vegetables, and certain prepackaged foods; it has been linked to several recent food product recalls. On April 8, Sabra recalled 30,000 cases of its original hummus recipe after a routine supermarket inspection found the bacteria in certain lots. In December, 28 illnesses and four deaths in 10 states were linked to listeria contamination in prepackaged caramel apples. According to experts, the bacteria spreads easily through food and water, making it a common culprit in food-borne illnesses.

In response to its listeria problems, Blue Bell says it has expanded its safety procedures, including more cleaning and sanitizing of equipment and a daily sampling of specimens in a lab. The company is also instituting a “test and hold” system at its facilities for the time being – products will be tested and held for release to the market until after the tests show they are safe. “Blue Bell expects to resume distribution soon on a limited basis once it is confident in the safety of its product,” the company says.

In the meantime, customers who have purchased Blue Bell products should throw them out or return them to the store for a full refund. Consumers with additional questions can call 1-866-608-3940 Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. CST or go to bluebell.com.

Former U.S. Army Colonel Pleads Guilty to False Statements and Conflict of Interest in Connection with Helicopter Procurement Contracts

Birmingham Times

April 21, 2015

Former U.S. Army Colonel Pleads Guilty to False Statements and Conflict of Interest in Connection with Helicopter Procurement Contracts

TUSCALOOSA – A former colonel in the U.S. Army pleaded guilty today in federal court for criminal misconduct arising from his duties associated with various helicopter procurement contracts at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville.

U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance, FBI Special Agent in Charge Roger C. Stanton, Special Inspector General John F. Sopko for Afghanistan Reconstruction, Deputy Inspector General for Investigations James B. Burch of the Defense Department’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), and Frank Robey, director of the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Command’s (CID) Major Procurement Fraud Unit made the announcement.

NORBERT VERGEZ, 49, formerly of Mesa, Ariz., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge L. Scott Coogler to the three counts of a government information filed last week: two counts charging false statements and one count charging conflict of interest. No sentencing date has been set.

“Colonel Vergez placed his own financial ambitions and personal loyalties above his duties as a member of the armed forces,” Vance said. “In doing so, he betrayed the U.S. Army values of honesty, integrity and selfless service, which are hallmarks of military service. This prosecution highlights our commitment to hold responsible those who, by word and deed, corrupt the government contracting process.”

According to his plea agreement, Vergez served from 2010 to 2012 as the program manager for “Non-Standard Rotary Wing Aircraft” (NSRWA), a component of the Army located at Redstone Arsenal, which was responsible for contracts involving certain “non-standard” helicopters, including the Russian-made Mi-17.

Vergez pleaded guilty to three instances of making false statements and using false writings in communicating with the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General (DODIG) in connection with a DODIG audit of a Mi-17 overhaul contract administered in part by NSRWA. One aspect of the audit had to do with the role NSRWA played in certain contract disputes that involved various contractors and subcontractors in the contracting chain, including a third-tier subcontractor known as Avia Baltika Aviation Ltd. (AVB). Vergez admitted in his plea agreement that on two occasions he made or caused his office to make false representations to DODIG that his office had no direct contact with AVB concerning its subcontract on the Northrop Grumman contract, when, as Vergez then knew, he and his direct subordinates at NSRWA had significant direct contacts with AVB related to its subcontract.

Vergez also admitted that on Feb. 1, 2012, he directed a subordinate official to create and sign a document bearing the typed date Dec. 5, 2011, representing that a $3.67 million claim by AVB under the contract was reasonable. As a result of this backdating, it falsely appeared that the subordinate official had approved the $3.67 million payment before directions were given to Northrop to make that payment. That document was then provided to DODIG in response to its requests for supporting documentation surrounding this attempt to have Northrop pay AVB.

According to the plea agreement, Vergez admitted that he engaged in a criminal conflict of interest by taking official acts as a government official to assist a helicopter manufacturing company in negotiating a “foreign military sale” and adjusting a contract so that the company received payment faster than originally agreed upon at a time when Vergez was negotiating future employment with that company.

Vergez further admitted that he made false statements in his “Confidential Financial Disclosure Report,” a government ethics form, for the year 2012, by not disclosing that his wife had received a Rolex wristwatch from the wife of a representative of AVB; that he had accepted an offer of employment with a private company; and that he had received a $30,000 check from that company.

The Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR), DCIS, CID and the FBI investigated the case. Department of Justice Trial Attorney Mark H. Dubester of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section (on detail from SIGAR) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Henry Cornelius and Ramona Albin are prosecuting the case.

YWCA Central Alabama Hosts 16th Annual Purse & Passion Luncheon

Birmingham Times

April 17, 2015

YWCA Central Alabama Hosts 16th Annual Purse & Passion Luncheon

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The YWCA Central Alabama hosted its 16th Annual Purse & Passion Luncheon on April 9, at the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel. More than 1,400 women and men from all over the region attended, helping to raise critical funds for the YWCA’s programs that serve women, children and families in need.
Purse & Passion, the YWCA’s largest fundraiser, has generated more than $5 million since 2000. Funding is provided by corporate and foundation sponsors, as well as contributions from guests the day of the event. More than 120 dedicated table captains invited friends and family members to help support the mission of the YWCA. The agency provides a broad array of domestic violence services; child development programs for children from homeless and working poor families; safe, decent, affordable housing; and social justice programs.
The theme of this year’s event was Sweet 16, and guests were inspired by the stories of two women who, with the help of the YWCA’s services, have rebuilt their lives. Those in attendance also learned about programs designed to help children and youth forge futures that are safe, strong and secure.
Co-chairs for the 2015 luncheon were Lajuana Bradford, Lisa Burton, Lynn LaRussa and DeValerie Williams. Purse & Passion Steering Committee members were Barbara Blair, Dalton Blankenship, Maggie Brooke, Myla Calhoun, Paige Daniel, April Deal, Jill Deer, Jennifer Evans, Gillian Goodrich, Brenda Hackney, Kathryn Harbert, Sheryl Kimerling, Ricki Kline, Lisa Miller, Dot Mueller, Carla Roberson, Valerie Thomas, Melinda Underwood and Debbie White.

The YWCA is grateful to our 90 corporate sponsors, who so generously support our efforts to create a more caring community. Sponsors include Belk, Inc.; Harbert Management Corporation; Alabama Power Company; Protective Life Corporation; Red Diamond; Regions Financial Corporation; Alabama Media Group; Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama; and Publix Super Markets Charities, Inc.

ASFA Alum on Grey’s Anatomy TONIGHT!

Birmingham Times

April 17, 2015

ASFA Alum on Grey’s Anatomy TONIGHT!

Alabama School of Fine Arts alumni Ajiona Alexus will appear on tonight’s episode of Grey’s Anatomy on ABC at 9/8c. The episode is called “Crazy Love!” and it is rumored, but not yet confirmed that she will play the character of Marissa. Alexus is a 2014 graduate of the ASFA Theater Arts department where she was enrolled from 7th-12th grades. Other professional acting work has included The Rickey Smiley Show where she played DeAnna from 2012-2014 while she was a student at ASFA. Recently she played Noelle in My First Love, a movie currently playing on BET. In addition to acting, Ajiona also sings and dances and has opened for artist like Diggy Simmons, OMG Girlz, TK N Cash and IYAZ.

The Alabama School of Fine Arts is a tuition-free, public school located at 1800 Reverend Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd. Birmingham, AL 35203. Admission is by audition only. For more information, please call 205-252-9241 or visit our website at www.asfa.k12.al.us.

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