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

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January 29, 2015

Wendell Scott: Legend, Trailblazer … and NASCAR Hall of Famer
Scott’s Legacy a Story of Perseverance, Excellence

There are five 2015 NASCAR Hall of Fame inductees, Bill Elliott, Fred Lorenzen, Wendell Scott, Joe Weatherly and Rex White. This is about Wendell Scott who became the first Black driver to win a premier series race “against the odds.”

During a 13-year premier series career, Wendell Scott likely never considered he was making NASCAR history. The Virginian’s sole concern was getting to the next race on a miniscule budget.

Scott wasn’t the only driver to struggle financially. The odds of making a good living racing stock cars were long in the 1960s and early 1970s when purses were small, large sponsors unheard of and manufacturer support came and went with the turning of the calendar’s pages.

But Scott faced a challenge not shared by his fellow competitors: that of an African-American battling to succeed in a still-segregated society.

Measured against that backdrop, Scott succeeded admirably. He became the first – and to date, only – Black driver to win a premier series race, at Jacksonville, Florida, in 1963. He made 495 starts to rank 37th on the series’ all-time list, posting 147 top-10 finishes, more than 25 percent of the races he entered. Scott finished four times among the top 10 in driver championship standings including a sixth in 1966.

While most of Scott’s success came on shorter tracks, he logged superspeedway top 10s at Atlanta, Charlotte, Daytona Beach, Dover and Darlington. He twice finished seventh in Atlanta Motor Speedway’s Dixie 400 – in 1966 finishing ahead of NASCAR Hall of Famers Buck Baker, Bobby Allison and fellow 2015 inductee Rex White. Scott also finished seventh in a Daytona 500 qualifying race – which at the time carried premier series championship points.

Scott was singular of purpose, owning and preparing the cars which carried the No. 34. His Chevrolets and Fords were second hand. Without sponsorship, Scott couldn’t afford to hire a pit crew, which usually was comprised of his sons. Tires and spare parts were cast offs from other teams.

Scott, however, never used that as excuse to give less than 100 percent. He finished 321 of his 495 starts.

“We weren’t allowed to use the words ‘can’t’ and ‘never.’ He didn’t believe in those words,” said Franklin Scott, one of Scott’s seven children and a member of his father’s pit crew. “He instilled in everybody he met that if you’re willing to work and do the things necessary to be successful, you can be successful.”

“If he had had the proper equipment, I believe he would have been a winner a lot of times,” said 1960 premier series champion White, sentiments echoed by NASCAR Hall of Famer Ned Jarrett, a two-time premier series champion.

“If he’d had the equipment or financial backing that I and others had, he would have won more races,” said Jarrett in a 2009 story published in the New York Times.

Former Charlotte Motor Speedway president H.A. “Humpy” Wheeler, quoted in the same article, said Scott “was obviously a much better driver than the record shows.”

Wendell Oliver Scott was born Aug. 29, 1921 in Danville, Virginia. His father was an expert mechanic, a trade the young Scott quickly learned. After serving in Europe during World War II, Scott returned home to become a taxi driver, who also transported illegal whiskey. He competed in his first race at the Danville fairgrounds winning $50. Over the next decade Scott won more than 100 sportsman and modified stock car races as well as the Virginia State Sportsman championship.

Scott made his NASCAR premier series debut at age 39 on March 4, 1961 at Piedmont Interstate Fairgrounds in Spartanburg, South Carolina, driving a year-old Chevrolet purchased from Baker. He continued as a series regular until 1973, his career ended by an accident at Talladega Superspeedway.

Scott’s signature victory in the Dec. 1, 1963 race at Jacksonville’s Speedway Park in the third event of the 1964 season was fraught with controversy. Scott, who started 15th, initially was listed as finishing third behind Baker, who took part in victory circle ceremonies and headed for home with the race trophy. A subsequent scoring re-check found Scott actually had finished two laps ahead of Baker.

“I knew I’d passed Buck … three times and only made one pit stop for gas and didn’t lose a lap,” said Scott, who led the final 27 laps after frontrunner Richard Petty slowed with steering problems. “I knew I had won.”

In 1990, Scott lost a battle to cancer at age 69. In January 2013 Scott was awarded his own historical marker in Danville, proclaiming in part, “Persevering over prejudice and discrimination, Scott broke racial barriers in NASCAR.”

Scott previously was inducted into the National Sports Hall of Fame, the International Motorsports Hall of Fame, the National Motorsports Press Association Hall of Fame and the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame.

Racing returns to Talladega Superspeedway in 2015 with the Winn-Dixie 300 (Saturday, May 2) NASCAR XFINITY Series event and the Talladega 500 (Sunday, May 3) NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race. For ticket information, log onto www.talladegasuperspeedway.com.

McAdory Honors Jordan B. Jones

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Birmingham Times

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January 29, 2015

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Jordan B. Jones is a junior that attends McAdory High School in McCalla, Ala. Jordan’s collegiate goal is to get an education and to receive a football scholarship so that he can continue to play football on the next level. Jordan plays middle linebacker and this past season he had 101 plus tackles, and two sacks.
Jordan is very coachable, very athletic, a go-getter, and a team player/leader. He is different from other recruits by being a hard worker, he strives to be the best and nothing less; he leads by example and is not easily to be influenced by negative elements. He reads plays very well and is fundamentally sound with excellent technique. He stays low in his stance and explodes to the ball. He penetrates gaps and makes plays in the opposing team’s backfield. Also, he has excellent lateral pursuit and is an outstanding form tackler. He gets his shoulders into the ball carrier and wraps up with his arms whenever he can. He steps into the hole, takes on blockers and makes plays. He has the speed to both rush the QB and play pass coverage in the passing game.
Jordan is a hard worker in the classroom and works hard to increase his grades and G.P.A. (3.2) He also volunteers with his church at our local homeless shelter assisting with serving and helping where he is needed. He attends church regularly and is very active with his youth group.
Stats & Honors

•   NUC ALL AMERICAN SHOWCASE TOP 100 Invite held in Covington Georgia June 2014
•   NUC ALL AMERICAN TOP100 Invite held in Myrtle Beach South Carolina-December 2014-Starting Defensive Middle Linebacker
•   101 TACKLES JUNIOR SEASON 2014
•   Athlete of the Month for Sports Fitness Institute 2013
•   2nd Runner MVP – Auburn Football Camp Summer 2012
•   Football Camps Attended – Florida State, Auburn University, Jacksonville State University, University of Tennessee, Mississippi State University

Proud Parents are Mr. Edwin Jones and Mrs. Evelyn Jones

Hornets’ Waters Named SWAC POTW

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Birmingham Times

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January 29, 2015

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MONTGOMERY – Alabama State University’s Jamel Waters has been named the men’s basketball Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Player of the Week.
Waters led the Hornets to a come-from-behind 59-56 win at Alabama A&M. The junior guard scored a team-high 18 points while also grabbing a career-high eight steals. The SWAC’s leader in assists had five during the game and had a season-high six rebounds.
Waters went over the 800-career point’s mark in the game and is averaging 12.4 points per game, which is eight in the conference. He leads the SWAC in assists (5.4) and assists-to-turnover ratio (2.1).
His .434 field goal percentage ranks 10th in the SWAC and he is ninth in free throw percentage (.737). He is also ranked second in steals (2.2), 12th in three point percentage (.328), 15th in three point field goals made (1.1) and ninth in minutes played (30.9).

Local Former NFL Players to Host Super Bowl Party

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Birmingham Times

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January 29, 2015

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BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Area football fans are invited to Party with the Pros on Super Bowl Sunday 2015. The NFLPA Birmingham Former Players chapter will host a viewing party at The Southern Kitchen and Bar in Uptown on February 1. Doors open at 4 p.m. Tickets are $30 and are available at www.arcofjeff.instagift.com/super-bowl-party.
Guests will get to watch the big game with some of their favorite former NFL players, many of whom played for The University of Alabama or Auburn University before turning pro. Proceeds from the event will benefit the YWCA Central Alabama, The Arc of Jefferson County and Children’s Village. “It’s a fun way for us to give back to the community and highlight some of the agencies we support,” said Chris Goode, president of the local chapter and former Alabama and Indianapolis Colts player.
The NFLPA has more than 30 local chapters of former players around the country, but Birmingham is the only city without an NFL team nearby to have a chapter. The group has more than 70 members, including Joe Cribbs, Bobby Humphrey, Lionel James and Antonio Langham. “This is the only chapter in the state, and we have a lot of guys here in Birmingham, Mobile and Huntsville,” Goode said. “The Players Association really stresses community involvement, and this is something a lot of the guys want to do anyway.”
Light snacks will be served at the event, and there will be a cash bar. Attendees may also order off the menu. Door prizes, a silent auction and a photo booth are also part of the lineup.

This Week in ASU Athletics

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Birmingham Times

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January 28, 2015

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Winter sports are in full swing this weekend as well as the tennis teams.

Fri. Jan. 30
Bowling: at Prairie View A&M; Arlington, Texas; All Day
M/W Track and Field: at Indiana Relays; Bloomington, Ind.; All Day
Women’s Tennis: vs. Troy; 2 p.m.

Sat. Jan. 31
Bowling: at Prairie View A&M; Arlington, Texas; All Day
M/W Track and Field: at Indiana Relays; Bloomington, Ind.; All Day
Women’s Basketball: at Texas Southern; 5:30 p.m. (HornetVision)
Men’s Basketball: at Texas Southern; 7:30 p.m. (HornetVision)

Sun. Feb. 1
Bowling: at Prairie View A&M; Arlington, Texas; All Day
M/W Track and Field: at Indiana Relays; Bloomington, Ind.; All Day

ON THE HORIZON
Mon. Feb. 2
Women’s Basketball: at Prairie View A&M; 5:30 p.m. (Listen Live bamastatesports.com)
Men’s Basketball: at Prairie View A&M; 7:30 p.m. (Listen Live bamastatesports.com)

Fri. Feb. 6
Softball: vs. Buffalo; Troy, Ala.; Noon
Softball: vs. North Florida; Troy, Ala.; 5 p.m.
Bowling: at Bethune-Cookman; Orlando, Fla.; All Day

Sat. Feb. 7
Men’s Tennis: vs. Southern Mississippi; Troy, Ala.; 3 p.m.
Women’s Basketball: vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff; 3 p.m. (Watch HornetVision, Listen Live bamastatesports.com)
Softball: vs. Florida A&M; Troy, Ala.; 4 p.m.
Men’s Basketball: vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff; 5 p.m. (Watch HornetVision, Listen Live bamastatesports.com)
Softball: vs. Western Kentucky; Troy, Ala.; 7:30 p.m.
Bowling: at Bethune-Cookman; Orlando, Fla.; All Day

Sun. Feb. 8
Softball: vs. Western Kentucky; Troy, Ala.; 2:30 p.m.
Bowling: at Bethune-Cookman; Orlando, Fla.; All Day

ASU Baseball Opens 2015 Team Practice

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Birmingham Times

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January 28, 2015

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MONTGOMERY – After being rained out Friday, the Alabama State baseball team opened team practice Saturday night at the Wheeler-Watkins Baseball Complex.
“I thought our first practice was really good,” fourth-year head coach Mervyl Melendez said. “The intensity was there. The energy was there. The execution was there. You can tell the guys were focused and I was really happy with everything that went on tonight.”
The Hornets return 23 players from last year’s 37-win team that won the SWAC Eastern Division title and finished as the conference runners-up. With 17 newcomers, Melendez likes the makeup of the roster and the veteran leadership from the seniors.
“We probably have the best makeup of old and new players since we’ve been here,” said Melendez, who has won 89 games in three seasons at Alabama State. “It’s good to see the young guys learning from the seniors who have been here. That is going to help them to develop quicker. Our current seniors were kind of lost as freshmen three seasons ago. The veterans are teaching newcomers the ropes and not letting them hang themselves, as opposed to the trial and error of three years ago. I’m very happy with the communication. The seniors are being very vocal about what it’s going to take for us to become a better team, and being unselfish about teaching them regardless of who plays.”
The Hornets open the season February 13-15 in the South Florida Tournament. Alabama State plays #12 Louisville Friday, #17 Cal-State Fullerton Saturday, and South Florida Sunday.

ASU PIcks Up Win Over Alcorn State

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Birmingham Times

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January 28, 2015

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MONTGOMERY – Jamel Waters scored a game-high 18 points in leading Alabama State to an 84-60 win over Alcorn State as the Hornets remained undefeated in Southwestern Athletic Conference action.
Waters led four players in double digits as Luther Page added 14, Maurice Strong 13 and Steve Rogers 10 as ASU shot 46 percent from the field.
“A solid ball game,” Head Coach Lewis Jackson said. “We have been talking about getting off to a good start in the first halves of ball games and tonight we were able to come out and throw the first punch. We’ve been playing from behind our last three or four ball games and we put an emphasis on trying to get out in front and we really did a good job of that.
The game was never in doubt after Alcorn held an early 3-2 lead. Waters’ first basket of the game gave the Hornets a 4-3 lead at the 17:32 mark in the first half and ASU never trailed again slowly building their 17 point halftime lead.
The second half was much of the same as the starters only played about half of the second half, with the reserves picking up most of the playing time. ASU led by as many as 27 points on three occasions before settling in for the 24-point cushion.
ASU (10-5/6-0 SWAC) also had a solid defensive game holding the Braves to 38 percent shooting and that includes 9 percent (1-11) from beyond the three point line. Alcorn did show why they are one of the top free throw shooting teams in the SWAC as they knocked down 17 of their 23 attempts.
Alcorn State (4-15/3-4 SWAC) came into the game with one of the top scorers in the conference in LeAntwan Luckett. He was averaging 14 points per game and in this game he only managed five points, only hitting one of his 11 field goal attempts. Marcus Vance was averaging a little over 12 points per game, but the Hornets held him to nine, although he did a solid job on the boards with 12.
“I thought defensively we did an outstanding job on their scorers in the first half, Luckett and Vance,” Jackson said. “DeMarcus (Robinson), Bobby (Brown) and BG (Brandon Graham) really did a number and we played good team defense on their guys and we were able to score some points. So it was a solid two halves of basketball and it was something we have been looking to do for a while.”
Michael Davis was Alcorn’s leading scorer with 15 points. He was joined in double digits by Kenyan Pittman who finished the game with 10.
One game after being out rebounded, the Hornets took to the boards out rebounding Alcorn State 51-36. Strong finished off his double-double with 12 rebounds and Wendell Lewis added a career-high 10 rebounds to go with his seven points.
Waters had another solid all-around game. He only played 25 minutes due to the Hornets building a big lead. His game-high 18 points came on eight of 12 shooting with two free throws. He also had a game-high five assists and tied his season-high with six rebounds.
“He (Waters) is the general of the team, one of the captains, and as he goes is usually the way that we go,” Jackson said. “We have been trying to get him to be a pass first guy. He’s been a scorer coming in, but he’s accepted that responsibility (pass-first) and he is doing a pretty good job of it. We still need him to score, and he’s quick enough to get into the lane and make guys bite. He can also find guys in transition and he is really coming into his own in terms of leading the team to where we need to go.”
The Hornets were up and down in the first half but did manage to take a 43-26 lead into the locker room at halftime. Waters had 14 first half points and Strong contributed with 11 as ASU finished the opening 20 minutes shooting 46 percent from the field.
ASU’s full court press forced 11 turnovers as Alcorn could only manage 36 percent shooting. They were able to stay as close as they did by hitting eight of their 11 free throws. Luckett, the Braves’ leading scorer, only scoring two points, which came from the free throw line.

Classifieds

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Birmingham Times

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January 22, 2015

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Employment

University of Montevallo

Administrative Assistant I – Education

Visit: https://jobs.montevallo.edu

UM is an EO Employer
BT01/22/15

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ELECTRICIAN

The BJCC has a FT opening for a licensed journeyman
or master electrician. Must have at least 3 yrs. expr in
commercial or industrial field. Must be able to read and
interpret drawings, specs, etc., with extensive knowledge
of Simplex Fire Alarm Sys. Valid state driver license reg.
Apply at bjcc.org.
BT01/22/15

__________________

AUTOMOBILE

2008 G.M.C. Arcadia SLT
Gold HARD LOADED
3rd. row seat Leather
Bring W-2 and drive
today Call Sam at
205-815-6454

2012 Dodge Charger
Factory Powertrain
Warranty Low miles
Call Cynthia
205-380-0593

2007 Murcury Mountaineer
Fully loaded with T.V.
3rd row seat, navigation
Call Sam at
205-815-6454

2004 Ford Mustang
Blue Automatic
40th Anniversary Edition
Call Ladarious at
205-380-0593

2010 Scion T.C.
5 speed Low miles
Sunroof, Silver
Call Cynthia at
205-380-0593
BT01/22/15

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LEGAL TO: Prospective Offerors

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS:
15-06

SEPARATE SEALED PROPOSALS FOR:
Legal Services

PROPOSALS WILL BE RECEIVED AT:
HABD Central Office Procurement Administrator
1826 Third Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35233-1905

CLOSING DATE:
February 10, 2015

TIME:
2:00 P.M. CST

LOCATION:
HABD Central Office
Procurement Administrator
1826 Third Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35233-1905

By submission of a proposal the offeror agrees, if the offeror’s proposal is accepted, to enter a contract with the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District (HABD), to complete all work as specified or indicated in the contract documents, for the contract price and within the contract time indicted in the RFP. The offeror further accepts the terms and conditions of the RFP.

Proposals must be prepared in accordance with the section entitled “Submittal of Proposal,” and will be evaluated by the HABD. Evaluation will be based on the criteria within this RFP.

Copies of the RFP, which includes the scope of services, conditions and requirements, may be obtained from the HABD Procurement Office located at the address listed above. Persons who require special accommodations should immediately contact the HABD Procurement Office at (205) 521-0611.

HABD reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals, or any proposal, and to waive any informalities or irregularities.

HABD in accordance with the Executive Orders 11625 and 12138 promotes participation by businesses owned and operated by disadvantaged and historically underutilized businesses. Section 3 business requirements must also be met.

A copy of this solicitation is available at www.habd.org under the Purchasing and Procurement Section. Questions regarding the attached RFP should be directed to the Procurement Administrator, in writing ten (10) days prior to proposal due date. Questions received after the deadline will not be answered.

Contracting Officer:
Naomi H. Truman, Executive Director
BT01/22/15

_______________
TO: Prospective Offerors

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS:
15-12

SEPARATE SEALED PROPOSALS FOR:
Resident Leadership and Team Building
Training

PROPOSALS WILL BE RECEIVED AT:
HABD Central Office
Procurement Administrator
1826 Third Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35233-1905

CLOSING DATE:
February 12, 2015

TIME:
2:00 P.M. CST

LOCATION:
HABD Central Office
1826 Third Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35233-1905

By submission of a proposal the offeror agrees, if the offeror’s proposal is accepted, to enter a contract with the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District (HABD), to complete all work as specified or indicated in the contract documents, for the contract price and within the contract time indicted in the RFP. The offeror further accepts the terms and conditions of the RFP.

Proposals must be prepared in accordance with the section entitled “Submittal of Proposal,” and will be evaluated by the HABD. Evaluation will be based on the criteria within this RFP.

Copies of the RFP, which includes the scope of services, conditions and requirements, may be obtained from the HABD Procurement Office located at the address listed above. Persons who require special accommodations should immediately contact the HABD Procurement Office at (205) 521-0611.

HABD reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals, or any proposal, and to waive any informalities or irregularities.

HABD in accordance with the Executive Orders 11625 and 12138 promotes participation by businesses owned and operated by disadvantaged and historically underutilized businesses. Section 3 business requirements must also be met.

A copy of this solicitation is available at www.habd.org under the Purchasing and Procurement Section. Questions regarding the attached RFP should be directed to the Procurement Administrator, in writing ten (10) days prior to proposal due date. Questions received after the deadline will not be answered.

Contracting Officer:
Naomi H. Truman, Executive Director
BT01/22/15

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ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS JEFFERSON COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE IMPROVEMENTS
The Jefferson County Commission will receive sealed Proposals from General Contractors for the Jefferson County Department of Revenue Improvements until 2:00 PM Local Time on Tuesday, February 24, 2015 at the Jefferson County Courthouse, Room 1, General Services, 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Boulevard North, Birmingham, Alabama 35263, after which time they will be opened in the Commission Chamber, Second Floor, Room 270.
No Bids will be accepted after the time stated for the receipt of Bids. This requirement will not be waived. The clock in the County Commission Chamber will be used to determine the correct time as determined by Mr. Jeff Smith, Director of General Services, or his designated representative. At the time stated above, the Proposals will be opened and publicly read aloud.
All Bids must be on a lump-sum basis. Submit two identical copies of the Bid on the Proposal Form provided, without changes, in a sealed envelope bearing the Contractor’s name and current Alabama license number. Bids that do not bear the Contractor’s current license number will be returned without being opened.
Construction Contracts shall be awarded only to Contractors, licensed by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors, as required by Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of Alabama. Construction Contracts in excess of $50,000 shall be awarded only to Contractors licensed as required by the 1978 Code of Alabama, Title 34, Chapter 8 as amended. Bidders must be “responsible” in accordance with criteria in the Bid Documents and as stipulated by Title 39-2-3-(e) of the Code of Alabama
A Bid Bond, executed by a Surety company duly authorized and qualified to make such bonds in Alabama, payable to Jefferson County in the amount of 5% of the amount of the Bid, but not more than $10,000, must accompany the Bidder’s Proposal. 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 Owner.
A mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held at 2:00 PM Local Time on Wednesday, February 11, 2015 in the Jefferson County Courthouse, Room 22, Ground Floor, 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Boulevard North, Birmingham, Alabama. Because of the nature of this project, General Contractors wishing to bid the project must attend the Pre-bid Conference. If the number of bidders who attend the Pre-Bid Conference decreases so there is little or no competition, the Bid may be postponed at the discretion of the Owner.
Bid Documents (Drawings and Project Manual) will be open to public examination after 12:00 PM Local Time on Thursday, January 29, 2015 at the office of Poole and Company Architects, LLC, 2 20th Street North, Tel. 205-326-2206, Suite 1610; AGC Internet Plan Room; at the Birmingham Construction Industry Authority; at the F.W. Dodge Company Plan Room in Birmingham; McGraw-Hill Construction Dodge, and Construction Market Data in Birmingham.
Two sets of Bid Documents will be provided to each General Contractor upon receipt of a deposit check of $200.00, made payable and delivered to Poole and Company Architects, LLC. The deposit check will be refunded in full upon return of the documents in good condition within ten days of the Bid date. Good condition is defined as documents that are properly bound, fully clear, legible, without tears, without defacing marks, notes of extraneous comments or sketches on front or back of any sheet. Additional sets of Bid Documents may be obtained at Alabama Graphics for the cost of printing and handling. Bids will only be accepted from General Contractors who have filed a document deposit with the Architect.
No Bid may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for the receipt of Bids for a period of 60 days. Only Bids submitted by General Contractors licensed as required by applicable State and Local laws and bearing the license number of the Contractor will be considered.
The Owner reserves the right to reject any and all bids; to waive formalities and technicalities, and to proceed in its’ own best interests.
BT01/22/15

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

Forum Meeting Space Renovation

This will be for the use of the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority, Birmingham, Alabama. Pre-qualified 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 by pre-qualified General Contractors, up to the hour of 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 04, 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 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.

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 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. Documents will also be available at the pre-bid meeting and in the BCIA Plan Room.

Bids may be sent to BJCC Purchasing Department, Attn: Purchasing Coordinator, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N, Birmingham, AL 35203. Any bid not received by 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 04, 2015, must be hand delivered and presented at the bid opening. Sealed bids shall be submitted in triplicate and shall be properly identified. All bids received after 2:30 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 5% of the amount of bid, 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 pre-bid meeting will be conducted Wednesday, February 11, 2015 at 10:30 a.m. in the BJCC Executive Board Room.

Questions concerning the specifications should be directed to Jerry Nelms, Facility Engineer, at (205) 458-8409 or email Jerry.Nelms@bjcc.org. Sharon Proctor
Purchasing Coordinator
Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority

BT01/22/15

_______________
UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA
AT BIRMINGHAM
BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA

The Board of Trustees of the University of Alabama for the University of Alabama at Birmingham requests proposals from General Contractors for furnishing all labor and materials required for Lab Automation BCMA Wireless Infrastructure.

Proposals will be received until 2:00 p.m. CT on February 19, 2015 and will thereafter be publicly opened and read aloud in the large conference room of the 2020 Building, 2020 8th Avenue South, Birmingham, Alabama 35294-6552. Bids must be submitted on Proposal Forms furnished. Proposals shall be clearly identified on the exterior of the package with the bidder’s name, address, State license number, the name of the project being bid, time and place of the bid opening. Sealed proposals shall be submitted in triplicate and shall be properly identified.

Proposals may be hand delivered or received by mail on the date of the bid opening at the Office of Juan DeOnis, 2020 Building, 2020 8th Avenue South, Birmingham, Alabama 35294-6552, 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 February 19, 2015 will be returned unopened.

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, Code of Alabama. Construction Contracts in excess of $50,000 shall be awarded only to Contractors licensed as required by the 1978 Code of Alabama, Title 34, Chapter 8 as amended. Bidders must be responsible in accordance with criteria in the bid documents and as stipulated by Title 39-2-3-(e) of the Code of Alabama.

A Cashiers 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 Board of Trustees of the University of Alabama in the amount of 5% of the amount of bids, but in no event more than $10,000.00, must accompany the bidder’s proposals. 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 Owner.

Scope of Work

Work consists of installation of wireless infrastructure cabling and components and associated repair of finishes throughout multiple buildings in the Hospital complex. Work will be done in operating patient care areas which will require the Contractor to strictly follow stringent infection control guidelines.

UAB is a Signatory Sponsor to and affirms The Birmingham Plan ‑ Construction Industry Program (see the requirements thereof as stated in Paragraph 13 of the Supplementary Instructions to Bidders, Specification Section 00120).

A Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held on February 2, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. at the site of the work. Meet at the UAB Highlands Hospital Main Lobby. The Owner has designated that bid documents will be available for examination at the AGC Internet Plan Room, 5000 Grantswood Road, Irondale, AL 35210; at the Birmingham Construction Industry Authority, 3600 Fourth Avenue 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.

Two (2) sets of bid documents will be issued by the Architect, Birchfield Penuel & Associates, 2805 Crescent Avenue, Suite 200, Birmingham, Alabama to qualified bidders upon deposit of $100 per set, by check drawn to the order of the Architect. Deposits will be refunded in full to bona fide General Contract bidders, and the difference between deposits and cost of reproduction and handling will be refunded to others, upon return of all documents in good condition. Deposits will be forfeited if bid documents are not returned within ten (10) days after the Bid Opening.
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INVITATION FOR BIDS

The Jefferson County Commission will receive bids for the GARDENDALE NEW CASTLE PARK IMPROVEMENTS (CDBG13-03F-U4-NCP) at Room 270 of the Jefferson County Courthouse (Commission Chambers – 2nd Floor) until 9:00 a.m. local time on the 10th day of February 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: “ALFONSO HOLT”; (5) CONTRACTOR’S NAME AND ADDRESS; (6) ALABAMA LICENSE NUMBER; (7) CONTRACTOR’S DUNS NUMBER.

Bids are invited upon the work generally described as follows:

The work includes, but is not limited to providing all necessary materials, labor, equipment, tools, transportation and services to install a pre-fabricated dual-flush restroom facility at the existing Gardendale New Castle Park. Project includes clearing, grubbing and disposal of debris; approximately 300 C.Y. of earth grading and moving (cut and fill); approximately 725 SF of 5’ wide (typical) reinforced concrete sidewalks with 2” stone base; electrical service and utility stub-outs; 1000 gallon septic tank and associated on-site disposal field lines installed in accordance with Jefferson County Regulations; signage relocation; various erosion control measures; site restoration; and other minor miscellaneous site work in ccordance with the plans and specifications.

Bids must be accompanied by a certified check 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 GARDENDALE NEW CASTLE PARK IMPROVEMENTS (CDBG13-03F-U4-NOP)

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 AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd N, Suite A-430, Birmingham, Alabama 35203; the BIRMINGHAM CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY AUTHORITY, 601 37th Street South, Birmingham, Alabama 35222, and through ALABAMA AGC – ISQFT PLAN ROOM, 28015th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233.

The bid package may be obtained by depositing $ 100.00 with ENGINEERING SERVICE ASSOCIATES, INC., 5300 Cahaba River Road, Suite 250, Birmingham, AL 35243 (205-970-0772) 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, sex, age, religion, national origin, 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 properly licensed by the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors, as required by Chapter 8 of Title 34 of the Code of Alabama 1975 as amended. General Contractors with a classification of BC, BCU4 or MU should be able to bid this project. If a Contractor has any questions regarding his classification or eligibility to bid this project, those questions should be directed to the State Licensing Board.

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 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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INVITATION FOR BIDS

The Jefferson County Commission will receive bids for the ROSEDALE SIDEWALKS – PHASE 3 PROJECT (CDBG13-03L-M05-RS3) at Room 270 of the Jefferson County Courthouse (Commission Chambers – 2nd Floor) until 9:00 a.m. local time on the 10th day of February 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: “ALFONSO HOLT”; (5) CONTRACTOR’S NAME AND ADDRESS; (6) ALABAMA LICENSE NUMBER; (7) CONTRACTOR’S DUNS
NUMBER.

Bids are invited upon the work generally described as follows:

The work includes, but is not limited to providing all necessary materials, labor, equipment, tools, transportation and services to construct various sidewalk improvements, including: clearing, grubbing and disposal of debris; approximately 4,620 SF of 5’ wide fiber-reinforced concrete sidewalks; six (6) ADA-compliant sidewalk ramps and curbing modifications; pedestrian crossing signage and signage relocations; 21 LF of cross-tie and composite batten retaining wall; 51 LF of 1-1/2” ADA-Compliant steel handrail; pavement markings; various power pole, guy wire and utility relocations/adjustments; various erosion control measures; site restoration; and other minor miscellaneous site work in accordance with the plans and specifications.

Bids must be accompanied by a certified check 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 ROSEDALE SIDEWALKS – PHASE 3 PROJECT (CDBG13-03L-M05-RS3).

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 AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd N, Suite A-430, Birmingham, Alabama 35203; the BIRMINGHAM CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY AUTHORITY, 601 37th Street South, Birmingham, Alabama 35222, and through ALABAMA AGC – ISQFT PLAN ROOM, 2801 5th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233.

The bid package may be obtained by depositing $ 100.00 with ENGINEERING SERVICE ASSOCIATES, INC., 5300 Cahaba River Road, Suite 250, Birmingham, AL 35243 (205-970-0772) 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, sex, age, religion, national origin, 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 properly licensed by the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors, as required by Chapter 8 of Title 34 of the Code of Alabama 1975 as amended. General Contractors with a classification of MU or MU-S: Walkways should be able to bid this project. If a Contractor has any questions regarding his classification or eligibility to bid this project, those questions should be directed to the State Licensing Board.
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 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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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 #2 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 January 26, 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 January 27, 2014. 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

Or

Written comments can also be submitted prior to 5:00 PM on January 27, 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 several activities and to reprogram unexpended funds to other activities in these program years.

Jimmie Stephens, President
Jefferson County Commission
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PUBLIC NOTICE

Jefferson County, Alabama
Office of Community & Economic Development
Amended Final Statement of Community Development Objectives and Projected Use of Funds

Program Years 2014

Jefferson County, Alabama, and a consortium of municipalities located within the County (excluding Birmingham, Bessemer, Hoover, County Line, Sumiton, Argo, and Helena), received from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development annual grant for the 2014 Program Year from the Consolidated Plan Annual Action Plans. This is the 40th year of the Consolidated Plan Annual Action Plans that may include the Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG), The Emergency Shelter Grant Program (ESG), Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR), The Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) and the HOME Program (HOME).

Pursuant to the requirements of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, Jefferson County, Alabama is hereby publishing the Final Amended Statement of Objectives and Projected Use of Funds for the 2010 Five-Year Consolidated Plan and this year of the Program (October 1, 2014 to September 30, 2015). This Final Amended Statement will be developed after receiving citizen comments and views at a public hearing to be held on January 26, 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.

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.

Comments must be submitted prior to 5:00 p.m. on February 20, 2015. Written comments must be submitted to the following:

Jefferson County Office of Community & Economic Development
716 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N, Ste. A-430
Birmingham, AL 35203
Attn: Amendment Comments

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 several activities and to reprogram unexpended funds to other activities in these program years.

Jimmie Stephens, President
Jefferson County Commission
BT01/22/15

President Obama Fights For Middle Class

By

Birmingham Times

-

January 22, 2015

0

By The Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — Refusing to bend to the new Republican Congress President Barack Obama unveiled Tuesday night an ambitious State of the Union agenda steeped in Democratic priorities, including tax increases on the wealthy, education and child care help for the middle class and a torrent of veto threats for the GOP’s own plans.
In a shift from tradition, Obama’s address to a joint session of Congress was less a laundry list of new proposals and more an attempt to sell a story of a national economy emerging from the “shadow of crisis.” He appealed for “better politics” in Washington and pledged to work with Republicans, but he showed few signs of curtailing or tweaking his own plans to meet the GOP’s platform.
Instead, the president vowed to use his veto pen to strike down the Republican leadership’s efforts to dismantle his signature accomplishments, including his health care and financial reform laws.
“We can’t put the security of families at risk by taking away their health insurance or unraveling the new rules on Wall Street or refighting past battles on immigration when we’ve got a system to fix,” Obama said in his hour-long address. “And if a bill comes to my desk that tries to do any of these things, I will veto it.”
The president sought out more common ground on foreign policy, pledging to work with Congress on a new authorization for military action against the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria, as well as legislation to guard against cyberattacks. In a rare move away from his own party, Obama also renewed his call for fast-tracking free trade agreements with Asia and Europe, generating more applause from pro-trade Republicans than skeptical Democrats.
Obama’s address marked the first time in his presidency that he stood before a Republican-controlled Congress. Yet the shift in the political landscape has also been accompanied by a burst of economic growth and hiring, as well as a slight increase in Obama’s once-sagging approval ratings — leaving the White House to see little incentive in acquiescing to Republicans.
After ticking through signs of the rising economy, the president turned toward Republicans sitting in the chamber and said with a wink, “This is good news, people.”
The centerpiece of Obama’s economic proposals marked a shift away from the focus on austerity and deficit reduction that has dominated his fiscal fights with Republicans. In a direct challenge to GOP economic ideology, Obama called for increasing the capital gains rate on couples making more than $500,000 annually, to 28 percent.
The president’s tax plan would also require estates to pay capital gains taxes on securities at the time they’re inherited and slap a fee on the roughly 100 U.S. financial firms with assets of more than $50 billion.
Much of the $320 billion in new taxes and fees would be used for measures aimed at helping the middle class, including a $500 tax credit for some families with two spouses working, expansion of the child care tax credit and a $60 billion program to make community college free. He also has called for expanding paid leave for workers and moved on his own to lower a mortgage insurance premium rate that could attract new homebuyers.
“Will we accept an economy where only a few of us do spectacularly well?” Obama asked. “Or will we commit ourselves to an economy that generates rising incomes and chances for everyone who makes the effort?”
The president’s proposals seemed more about giving his party a platform in the 2016 election than outlining a realistic legislative agenda. Even before the president’s address, Republicans were balking at his proposals and painting a far less rosy picture of the economy.
Cornell William Brooks, NAACP President and CEO stated, “We heard President Obama issue a clear and resounding call for the future of our nation, anchored in economic equality for the middle class and academic excellence for those who want to join the middle class. The NAACP applauds President Obama for taking the first steps toward reforming a tax code that causes low and middle class Americans to bear the brunt of the tax burden and for announcing several much needed mechanisms for job creation. The president’s commitment to making both home ownership and community college more affordable and accessible to communities of color should be lauded. The president is steering our country in the right direction by placing comprehensive immigration reform, a fairer tax code and an increase to the national minimum wage at the top of his legislative agenda. Given President Obama’s ringing endorsement of the right to vote as ‘sacred,’ we expect his
continued push for strengthening voting rights. We look forward to working with Congress and President Obama to create social, educational and economic opportunities that build a solid and inclusive middle class for all people.”
“We see our neighbors agonize over stagnant wages and lost jobs. We see the hurt caused by canceled health care plans and higher monthly insurance bills,” said Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst, who delivered the Republican response.
House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, said Obama’s economic initiatives weren’t just “the wrong policies, they’re the wrong priorities: growing Washington’s bureaucracy instead of America’s economy.”
With an eye on a swirl of foreign policy challenges, Obama defended his decision to return to military action in Iraq and also authorize airstrikes in Syria. He said Congress could “show the world that we are united in this mission” by passing a new resolution formally authorizing the use of force against the Islamic State group.
As the U.S. eyes a March deadline for a framework agreement with Iran on its disputed nuclear program, the president vowed to veto any effort by Congress to pass new sanctions legislation. Such a step, he said, “will all but guarantee that diplomacy fails — alienating America from its allies and ensuring that Iran starts up its nuclear program again.”
The president also heralded his unilateral move last month to normalize diplomatic relations with Cuba after a half-century of animosity, and he urged lawmakers to follow his lead by lifting the economic embargo on the communist island. Yet the guest boxes in the House chamber underscored the sensitive politics that hang over efforts to overhaul the long-standing U.S. policy toward Cuba.
Among the guests sitting with first lady Michelle Obama was Alan Gross, the American man who spent five years in a Cuban prison and was released as part of the deal to end the freeze between Washington and Havana. In a nod to the concerns of Cuban dissidents and pro-democracy advocates, House Speaker John Boehner’s guest was Jorge Luis García Pérez, who spent 17 years in a Cuban prison. Florida Republican Sen. Marco Rubio brought Rosa Maria Paya Acevedo, whose father was a well-known Cuban dissident who was killed in a car accident that his family believes was suspicious.
Obama appeared at ease throughout the address, adlibbing at times and responding to the audience reaction. As he neared the end of his speech, he declared, “I have no more campaigns to run.” As Republicans erupted in laughter, Obama retorted, “I know, because I won both of them.

Attorney General of the United States, Eric H. Holder, Jr. to Receive NAACP Chairman’s Award at the 46th NAACP Image Awards

By

Birmingham Times

-

January 22, 2015

0

LOS ANGELES, Calif. – The Honorable, Attorney General of the United States, Eric H. Holder, Jr. is set to receive the NAACP Chairman’s Award during the 46th NAACP Image Awards, broadcast live on Friday, February 6 (9 p.m. ET/PT tape-delayed) on TV One, the civil rights organization has announced.
The Chairman’s Award, chosen by Chairman of the NAACP National Board of Directors, Roslyn M. Brock, is bestowed in recognition of special achievement and distinguished public service. Past honorees include United States Navy Vice Admiral Michelle Howard, Radio One Founder and Chairperson Cathy Hughes, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Regina Benjamin, Tyler Perry, Former Vice President Al Gore and Dr. Wangari Muta Maathai, Aretha Franklin, Bono, then-Senator Barack Obama, The Dave Matthews Band, Danny Glover, and Forest Whitaker.
“Eric H. Holder, Jr. has a national reputation for his significant work around civil rights and race in America, voting rights, and criminal justice reform. In honoring Attorney General Holder, the NAACP focuses on his life’s work and accomplishments as our nation’s first African American Attorney General,” stated Roslyn M. Brock, Chairman of the NAACP National Board of Directors. “I am personally inspired by his many civic commitments including service on the board of Columbia University, the National Center for Victims of Crime, the Meyer Foundation, and the Save the Children Foundation, his expansive legal career including working for the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, as well as his positions on a number of tough race-related issues to ensure fair and equitable treatment for all Americans. It is my honor and privilege to recognize Mr. Holder.”
President Barack Obama nominated Mr. Holder to be Attorney General and his nomination was confirmed by the United States Senate on February 2, 2009. Mr. Holder began his service as the eighty-second Attorney General of the United States the next day. Eric H. Holder, Jr. was born in New York City and attended public schools there, graduating from Stuyvesant High School, before earning a B.A. in American History from Columbia College in 1973 and a J.D. from Columbia Law School in 1976.
Upon his graduation from law school, Mr. Holder joined the Department of Justice through the Attorney General’s Honors Program. He was assigned to the newly-formed Public Integrity Section, where he investigated and prosecuted corruption involving officials in local, state, and federal government. In 1988, President Reagan appointed Mr. Holder to serve as an Associate Judge of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, where he presided over hundreds of criminal and civil trials during his five years on the bench. In 1993, President Clinton appointed Judge Holder to serve as the United States Attorney for the District of Columbia. In 1997, President Clinton appointed Mr. Holder to serve as Deputy Attorney General of the United States, a position that he held until the end of the Clinton administration. At the request of President George W. Bush, Mr. Holder served as Acting Attorney General in 2001 pending the confirmation of Attorney General John Ashcroft.
Mr. Holder has received numerous awards in recognition of his professional and civic contributions, including the Department of Justice’s Special Achievement Award, the District of Columbia Bar Association’s Beatrice Rosenberg Award, and George Washington University’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Medal for Outstanding Service in Human Rights. The District of Columbia Bar Association recognized Mr. Holder as its Lawyer of the Year in 1997.
The NAACP Image Awards celebrates the accomplishment of people of color in the fields of television, music, literature and film and also honors individuals or groups who promote social justice through creative endeavors. Winners will be voted upon by NAACP members and announced when the envelopes are opened on Thursday, February 5 during the Awards Ceremony for non-televised categories. The remaining categories will be announced LIVE on stage during the two-hour star-studded TV One telecast on Friday, February 6 (9 p.m. ET/PT tape-delayed). The telecast will also include a one-hour pre-show airing live from the red carpet (8 p.m. ET/PT tape-delayed).
The 46th NAACP Image Awards are sponsored by: AT&T, Bank of America, FedEx, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Gilead Sciences, Hyundai Motor America, PepsiCo, Southwest Airlines and Wells Fargo.