Bravo Media’s”Thicker Than Water” Season Two

December 31, 2014

A Family That Lives Together… Stays Together

NEW YORK, N.Y. (BlackNews.com) – Bravo Media’s “Thicker Than Water” season two will premiere on Sunday, January 4 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. Season two features the unpredictable Tankard clan as they continue to live their lives as best as they can with their strong religious convictions at hand. Ben and Jewel Tankard are back, leading their self-proclaimed “Black Brady Bunch” family with children Brooklyn, Britney, Benji, and Cyrene. Joining the family in the “Tankard Palace” is Ben’s oldest son, Marcus, who returns to Tennessee with his wife, Tish, to a warm welcome from everyone – except Britney.
Beginning Monday, January 5 through Friday, January 9, fans can join the Tankard Family throughout the week for a series of live Facebook Q&As on the Thicker Than Water Facebook Page. Viewers will get the inside scoop on the family, the drama and what to expect from the upcoming season.
Preacher and patriarch Ben celebrates a year of milestones this season as he turns 50 and his 25th anniversary in music is fast approaching. At the same time, he deals with the twists and turns that come with fatherhood. The real ruler of the household, Jewel, faces what the kids are calling a midlife crisis as she copes with her golden girl and youngest, Cyrene, leaving for college and a rift with her sister that threatens to divide the family. The eldest daughter of the Tankard clan, Brooklyn, finally comes into her own as an entrepreneur, channeling big ideas into money-making opportunities and taking the hair industry by storm.
Healthier than ever, Britney embarks on a transformative fitness journey, and when the return of Marcus opens up old wounds, she stands ready to confront her traumatic past. Recently married Benji is motivated to follow in his father’s financially successful footsteps while itching to start a family of his own. An old soul and born leader, Marcus is more concerned with making a difference than with making millions, and when his family discovers the secret he brought home with him, it changes the Tankards forever. For a sneak peek at the series, visit: www.bravotv.com/thicker-than-water/season-2/videos/first-look-thicker-than-water-season-2.
“Thicker Than Water” is produced by Sirens Media with Rebecca Toth Diefenbach, Valerie Haselton Drescher and Lucilla DAgostino serving as Executive Producers and John Doe Productions with Renard Young and Darren Toon serving as Executive Producers.

Speaking of Soaps

Birmingham Times

December 31, 2014

BY MEREDITH COOPER

THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL
Liam gets heated when Ivy informs him about her most recent interaction with Rick. Ridge shares his joy of Caroline’s repaired marriage while delivering the news to her about the current state of his relationship with Katie. Maya begins to worry about her future with Rick because of the recent hitch in their plan. Deacon attempts to talk Quinn out of meddling in Wyatt’s effort to win Hope back. Feeling the pressure of the ticking clock, Rick pleads his case to Eric requesting that he sign the legal documents that would seal the deal of his Forrester Creations’ take-over. Knowing that the tables may soon turn, Maya holds her tongue during a venomous confrontation with Caroline. Ridge has a candid conversation with Carter about his feelings for Caroline and what he plans to do about it. Eric is torn when Carter, as legal counsel, advises him not to sign the papers that Rick has delivered. Unaware of the motive behind the document, Eric feels compelled to support Rick and Caroline’s future together and at Forrester Creations. Liam and Ivy have similar ideas about how they want to spend their first New Year’s Eve as a couple. Rick prepares Maya for a triumphant outcome by instructing her to pack her bags. Carter stirs the pot when he tips Ridge off about the contract that Rick wants Eric to sign. Maya is looking forward to soon being able to flaunt her relationship with Rick and take her rightful place in the hierarchy of Forrester Creations. Caroline gets the shock of her life when Maya makes an unexpected appearance during a company meeting.
THIS WEEK: When Eric begins to waver about signing the documents, Carter sends Ridge an urgent message of warning. Caroline makes a confession to Ridge about intimate details of her marriage.
DAYS OF OUR LIVES
Rafe’s secret is uncovered, and he’s fired from the police force! Melanie pays Gabi a surprise visit in prison. Furious Will blasts Sonny for not consulting him before taking money out of their shared bank account to pay for more work on the club expansion. Paul receives devastating news. Paul confesses to Sonny he’s never stopped loving him – and he wants them to reunite. Melanie warns Jordan about dating Chad and drops a tidbit about her own past with the young DiMera. John asks Marlena for a chance to start over. Paige demands an explanation from JJ about why he broke up with her. Eric is livid when he discovers what Nicole has been up to in regards to Serena. Brady is thrown by Melanie’s odd behavior, not realizing she’s feeling awkward after their close moment on Christmas Eve. Chad confesses to Jordan about his tumultuous past with Melanie. JJ confesses to Paige that he slept with someone else! While ringing in the New Year, Melanie and Brady share an unexpected, passionate kiss. Daniel blasts Nicole for sneaking into Serena’s room – and calls off their date.
THIS WEEK: Sonny’s dreams are crushed. Clyde seeks out Aiden’s services.
GENERAL HOSPITAL
As they try to make their way back to each other for New Year’s, both Maxie and Nathan encounter travel snafus. Jordan comes up with a new cover in order to save her life. Patrick and Sam discuss the state of their relationship, and decide to spend New Year’s together. It’s New Year’s Eve in Port Charles, and many PC residents turn up at the Metro Court to ring in 2015. Some jealousy and tense couple encounters ensue for some, along with romance for others. Carly helps Jake find a job. Jordan fills Shawn in on her latest plan. Nathan and Maxie rush to see each in person before the stroke of midnight. Sam and Patrick question their next steps. Carly and Jake find themselves in a compromising position. Elizabeth shares an emotional moment with a loved one. Alexis accuses Julian of purposely making her jealous, while Ned has a warning for Olivia. Sloan and Anna argue about his investigation. Duke and Lucy have an open and honest chat about their feelings. Will Maxie and Nathan end up spending New Year’s together?
THIS WEEK: Jake is determined to do well in his new job. Carly feels the need to step back.
THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS
Ashley tells Jack about Tobias spying for Victor. Jack has to come up with a plan to deal with this information without tipping his hand. Dylan asks Michael if he can cover the law office for a month so he can take Avery on an extended vacation. Dylan has this vacation carefully planned and orchestrated, but will all go as planned? Sage warns Adam not to underestimate her importance in his life. Adam, however, doesn’t share her inflated opinion of the influence she has on his life. Phyllis asks Hilary for help in arranging a surprise for Jack. Nick is worried that Sage thinks less of him when she finds out he is Victor Newman’s son. Once again the Newman legacy threatens to hamper his life. On New Year’s Day, Nikki resolves to keep her sobriety, but there are many challenges in the new year that might test her resolve in this matter. Michael and Lauren resolve to live every day and never take a moment for granted. The New Year’s celebration seems to be the perfect time for some self-reflection in this matter.
THIS WEEK: Sage asserts herself with Adam, but will it change his mind? Phyllis and Jack don’t see eye to eye.

Birmingham Leaders Continue to Expand the City’s International Opportunities after Successful Trip to Germany

Birmingham Times

December 31, 2014

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The list of opportunities for the City of Birmingham is growing faster than ever, as city leaders continue to work to market the City on an international level. Birmingham Mayor William Bell, Birmingham City Council President, Johnathan Austin, Birmingham City Councilor, Steven Hoyt, and Birmingham Airport Authority CFO, Sylvester Lavender have wrapped up a week long trip to Bremen and Hamburg, Germany where they met with top decision makers from the aerospace industry to discuss key issues concerning the future development of their companies with other aerospace executives. The above Birmingham delegation joined a larger delegation led by the Alabama Department of Commerce and other local and regional municipalities to the Hamburg Aviation Forum.
“We gained an enormous amount of knowledge about the aerospace industry by meeting with so many of the top executives,” President Austin said. “Using that knowledge we will be looking at ways that Birmingham can better serve those companies, with the hopes of creating more jobs in our City.”
The meetings with aerospace executives included Airbus procurement representatives, a wide spectrum of top decision makers from aerospace OEMs, suppliers and airlines and top executives from other industries. During the daily meetings it was revealed that while there will not be a lot of parts suppliers locating in the U.S. due to the low volume at the Alabama plant to warrant investment in U.S. production facilities, there is a possibility that with the existing logistics, engineering, and medical industries that lie in Birmingham, the City should look to provide homes to Airbus engineering and automation companies as well as logistics companies.
“In Germany, there is a direct correlation between medical and aerospace production and certifications which should transfer to the U.S. as well,” Kirk Atkinson, International Business Development and Project Manager for BLG Logistics said.
In addition to the meeting with executives from the aerospace industry, city leaders also met with executives at the Mercedes Benz plant in Bremen for an overview presentation and discussion on production between the Bremen and Alabama plants. During the discussion both groups identified additional opportunities to work together. Part of those additional opportunities depend on the expansion of flights between Bremen and Birmingham, which is why the Alabama delegation met with Bremen Airport executives regarding a potential direct flight. Airport executives gave a presentation on the infrastructure within and connections to-and-from the Bremen Airport, and Birmingham airport executives followed with a presentation on the newly renovated Birmingham Airport, its international flight infrastructure and potential customer data. Both sides agreed to immediately begin work on a direct flight by completing a list of action items that will include a follow up meeting in January.
Now that the Alabama delegation is back in Birmingham, work has already begun to ensure that the City capitalizes on the momentum from the trip abroad. The opportunities for Birmingham are endless and the progressive leadership that is in place plan to grab every opportunity that is available to ensure that our City continues to move forward.

NFBPA Members Reach Out to Arrington Middle School

Birmingham Times

December 31, 2014

Christmas came just in time for two students at Arrington Middle School, thanks to the Magic City Chapter of the National Forum for Black Public Administrators. Principal Anthony Moss helped NFBPA members at the December meeting make the surprise presentation. The students were selected based on their impeccable attitudes, their spirit of determination and their willingness to set the example for determination and excellence in education.
The Magic City Chapter of the NFBPA is proud to be a corporate partner with the school and is committed to serve through mentoring, outreach and by providing much needed support to the students at Arrington Middle School.

Applications Sought for Alabama Farm of Distinction Contest

Birmingham Times

December 31, 2014

Outstanding Alabama farms have until Jan. 30 to apply for more than $12,000 in cash and prizes as part of the Alabama Farm of Distinction contest.  Alabama Farm-City Committee Chairman Jeff Helms said the contest recognizes sustainable farm businesses that exhibit sound management, environmental stewardship and innovation.  “Alabama’s Farm of Distinction is the highest honor an agricultural operation can receive,” Helms said. “The Farm-City Committee created the award to showcase exceptional farms as it seeks to improve understanding and cooperation between farmers and their urban or suburban neighbors.”  Up to five finalists for the award will be selected based on applications, and each will receive a $250 gift certificate from Alabama Farmers Cooperative. Judges will travel to the farms of each finalist, and the overall winner will be announced at the Alabama Farm-City Awards Luncheon April 2 in Birmingham.  Alabama’s Farm of Distinction will receive a John Deere Gator from SunSouth, TriGreen and Snead Ag dealers; a $1,000 gift certificate from Alabama Farmers Cooperative (AFC); $2,500 from Swisher International and an engraved farm sign from Alabama Farmers Federation and Alfa Insurance. The overall winner will represent Alabama in the Swisher Sweets / Sunbelt Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year contest at the Sunbelt Ag Expo Oct. 20-22.  “The 2014 Alabama Farm of Distinction was Hunter Trees, a landscape tree nursery in Alpine,” Helms said. “Phillip Hunter and his family do an outstanding job representing Alabama agriculture. Like all Farm of Distinction winners, the Hunters are the cream of the crop. Their commitment to high-quality products, community involvement and conservation of natural resources helps achieve Farm-City’s mission.”  Farm-City Week started in 1955 and is officially observed the week before Thanksgiving, however, many county Farm-City committees sponsor educational activities throughout the year. Farm-City volunteers will help celebrate National Agriculture Day March 18.  Farm of Distinction applications are available under documents at AlabamaFarmCity.org. For more information about National Agriculture Day, visit AgDay.org

AAA Alabama Offering Free Towing on New Year’s Eve

Birmingham Times

December 31, 2014

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – As Alabamians celebrate on New Year’s Eve, AAA Alabama cautions partygoers against getting behind the wheel after the champagne toast. According to a recent analysis conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, during the last decade, the years’ highest number of alcohol-related traffic fatalities occur on New Year’s Day.
To save lives and promote safe driving this New Year’s Eve, AAA Alabama and wrecker services across the state will again offer Tow-for-Life. This public service program provides free towing services to keep impaired drivers off the road. This is the 28th year for the program, and the service is provided to AAA members and non-members alike. AAA does not condone drinking and driving and encourages all motorists to act responsibly to keep drunk drivers off the road throughout the holidays. The program begins at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, December 31st and continues until 6 a.m. on New Year’s Day.
“This is the most dangerous time of year to be on the roads,” says Clay Ingram, AAA Alabama spokesperson. “We want to raise awareness and encourage people to plan ahead when going out on New Year’s Eve. It is important to make arrangements before you go out, so that you aren’t making these decisions after you have been drinking. We want to help keep impaired drivers off the roads, so if you or someone you know has too much to drink on New Year’s Eve, just call 1-800-AAA-HELP and we’ll help get you home safely.”
In fact, wreckers are usually among the first at the scene of deadly crashes where alcohol has been involved and New Year’s Eve is traditionally one of the most dangerous nights of the year to drive. AAA encourages party-goers who drink alcohol to appoint a designated driver and party hosts should prevent guests from driving after drinking by calling a taxi to take them home, allowing the guest to spend the night or by making other arrangements to keep them safe.

To receive free towing on New Year’s Eve:
•   Call AAA Alabama at 1-800-222-4357 (1-800-AAA-HELP) and ask for Tow-for-Life. The vehicle must be operable to qualify for a free tow.
•   The operator will ask for the driver’s name, home address, telephone number and exact location of the vehicle and driver.
•   A tow truck will be dispatched and upon arrival the wrecker driver will ask for identification and the keys to the vehicle.
•   The vehicle will be towed to the home of the driver or owner if the owner is present.
•   Towing is provided at NO CHARGE up to 10 miles.

While the holidays make for a timely reason to raise the visibility of alcohol-related fatalities, AAA also continues to spread the message to not drink and drive in response to feedback from its members—who represent one in every four households—citing impaired driving as their greatest safety concern. And they’re not alone. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety’s latest Traffic Safety Culture Index reveals that 97 percent of drivers consider impaired driving to be unacceptable. Despite that fact, Americans continue to drink and drive. Alcohol-impaired drivers make up about one third of motor vehicle deaths.
“We’ve all heard that a DUI conviction can cost you financially. Legal fees, bail and other related expenses can amount to more than $10,000,” says Ingram. “But impaired driving can have a cost that impacts more than the wallet. Getting behind the wheel after drinking can lead to life-altering outcomes.” AAA reminds motorists of the true costs of impaired driving:

•   It can cost you your life. In 2009, 10,839 people lost their lives in alcohol-related traffic crashes. That’s about one death every 48 minutes.
•   It can cost another’s life. Alcohol-related traffic crashes don’t only affect the impaired driver. One third of alcohol-involved traffic fatalities are passengers, occupants in other vehicles or pedestrians.
•   It can cost you your freedom. A first-time DUI conviction can result in a six-to 12-month jail sentence, more for repeat offenders and for impaired drivers who injure or kill someone in a crash. Monitoring bracelets, ignition interlock equipment, license revocation and probation also place restrictions on your life.
AAA works year round to educate motorists about driving practices that will help keep them safe and reduce traffic-related crashes and the injuries that can result. PreventDUI.AAA.com is an online resource offering impaired driving facts, transportation alternatives and expert advice. Once there, AAA encourages visitors to Take the Pledge to drive drug and alcohol-free.
With 10 offices across Alabama and more than one thousand offices nationwide, AAA is North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization. AAA provides travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services to more than 364,000 Alabama members and more than 54 million members nationwide. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at www.AAA.com.

For more information about the Tow-for-Life program, call (205) 444-8885.

Black Men Run Launches the First Mobile Running/Fitness App Conceived, Designed and Developed by African Americans

Birmingham Times

December 31, 2014

Available now for the iPhone in the Apple AppStore

ATLANTA, Ga.(BlackNews.com) — The release of the Black Men Run running app for the iPhone in the Apple AppStore is a groundbreaking moment for not only fitness, but also technology. With its innovative and cutting edge design the Black Men Run app offers exclusive features that cater to all runners and provides a welcome alternative to existing running/fitness applications. Along with letting users track all aspects for their runs (distance, pace, splits, etc.) users will notice a lot of small nuances that don’t exist in mainstream running applications like streaming radio stations and exclusive DJ mixes.
The Black Men Run app is socially tied to the larger Black Men Run community and users will be rewarded for using the app with special contests and exclusive product offerings.The app also has a unique functionality that allows the user to adjust the skin (color/design) of the app to match their Black Men Run merchandise and a leaderboard where runners can see how they stack up again other runners creating a friendly competition.
The founder of Black Men Run, Jason Russell, who helped to design the application is enthusiastic about the opportunity to promote the mission of a “Healthy Brotherhood” in the mobile/digital space and hopes to bring in a large number of potential new runners to the activity that he loves. Mr. Russell states, “I have been using other running apps for years racking up thousands of miles with no tangible rewards.” The Black Men Run is looking to change that trend in future releases actually rewarding users with “BMR Points” that can be used for a variety of items and discounts. Mr. Russell goes on to say, “It will also be exciting to see how users enjoy the social media interaction that the app allows and hopefully you will start to see Black Men Run app screens replace those from Nike+, MapMyRun, RunKeeper, etc. in your social media news feeds.”
From a technology standpoint, the Black Men Run app is a game changer since it is the first running/fitness app created for a running group that was conceived, designed, and developed by African Americans. Diverse Mobile, an Atlanta, Ga. based mobile application development shop, created the application in house with feedback from members of Black Men Run. The CEO and Lead Developer for Diverse Mobile, Mr. Brian Roberson, stated that “Like Black Men Run was founded out of necessity, the BMR app was built with that same sense of urgency”. Brian goes on to say, “With the fact that global high tech companies like Apple, Google, and Twitter have been releasing extremely disappointing numbers around African Americans in IT, it was our job to show that we can build technologies that reach the masses having a positive impact on our community and the beyond.” Mr. Roberson believes that, “While the Black Men Run app is cutting edge and can compete with any running app on the market; the story around an African American male creating a mobile application for an African American male oriented running group is the biggest takeaway. It is time for minorities to develop the skill set to create applications for us and by us.”
A sampling of the Black Men Run app features are listed below:
* Track all details of your run including distance, pace, mileage time splits, and run history.
* See your name in lights on the Black Men Run leaderboard to see how you stack up against other runners from around the country.
* Obtain “BMR Run Points” for running with the app that are redeemable for merchandise, contest entries, and one of a kind prizes available ONLY to people who use the application.
* Track calories burned during your workout based on your weight to provide the most accurate results.
* Stream 5 HBCU radio stations that include Savannah State, Tennessee State University, Morgan State University, Alabama A&M, Clark Atlanta University, and live HBCU sports broadcasts from the Heritage Sports Radio Network.
* Access your iPhone music library and playlist during runs and stream exclusive DJ mixes (BMR Radio) during your runs directly from the app.
* QR code scanner for additional BMR point collection opportunities at national races and events.
* Ability to instantly share run information that includes map, location, and distance on Facebook and Twitter.
* Voice selection (Male or Female) to motivate you during your runs.
* One click access to purchase Black Men Run merchandise.
* View/track weather and temperature during your run along with viewing a 3 day forecast.
* Ability to find BMR group runs in your city and add them to your calendar.
* Ability to view Black Men Run training tip videos by an RRCA Certified Coach through the app. New videos added frequently.
* Ability to purchase in app skins to change the background color of your BMR app.
Future releases of the Black Men Run app will include city/team based running challenges, an In-App chat room creating a social network of runners and development tying the app to Apple’s HealthKit. The Black Men Run app will be integrated with HealthKit allowing users to share fitness information with participating physicians. This connection and the information exchange that will occur positions the BMR app as the primary mobile gateway to health and wellness for its users. Diverse Mobile has also started to create an extension for the Black Men Run app to work with the Apple Watch upon release of the hardware in 2015.
The Black Men Run app can be found in the Apple AppStore by searching for “Black Men Run”. The Black Men Run app is currently available for the iPhone only and can be downloaded by anyone interested in improving their health/fitness. The goal of the app is not only for our runners to log miles but to create healthier families and communities.

Fathers Incorporated announces multiple events leading up to National “Save Our Son’s” night

Birmingham Times

December 31, 2014

Save our Sons — Planning meeting with James Beau Gaudreau, Janks Morton, Kenneth Braswell, Troy Nalls and Gordon Mills. for National Save Our Boys Night

Planning meeting with James Beau Gaudreau, Janks Morton, Kenneth Braswell, Troy Nalls and Gordon Mills. for National Save Our Boys Night

— Leading national nonprofit for the promotion of Responsible Fatherhood and Director of the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse, Fathers Incorporated, announces “don’t miss’ events encouraging fathers to spend time with their children – building up to the first National Save Our Sons Night on February 6, 2015! —

Nationwide (BlackNews.com) — On Friday, February 6, 2015, the first annual NATIONAL SAVE OUR SONS NIGHT will take place across the country. On this evening, various partners from education, the faith community, national and local nonprofits, to individual families and community members are organizing to encourage fathers to find ways to spend more quality time with their sons and to model healthy behaviors for them.
According to Kenneth Braswell, Executive Director of Fathers Incorporated and Director for the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse, “We’ve come to learn that quality time with our children is more valuable to their wellbeing than our money. With the recent devastating events around the country involving Black boys and men, it is time to show a different kind of action – one that reveals the engaging, caring, and healthy relationships between fathers and sons in all of our communities. An image that says as fathers, we are not willing to sacrifice or lose our sons.” If you would like to join this national movement, visit www.saveoursonsnight.com for further information and to be listed as a partnering organization. Currently there are 34 organizations (7 national) in 19 cities registered to participate.
EVENTS LEADING UP TO SAVE OUR SONS NIGHT 

Heres the lineup of four exciting events setting the stage for National Save Our Sons Night:
1. Los Angeles, CA, January 16, 2015 – The National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse will partner with the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA) and the 18th Annual Collegiate Bowl, along with Fathers Incorporated and community agencies and barbershops to kick-off Fatherhood Buzz: Mens Health Matters in Los Angeles, California. Fatherhood Buzz events are community outreach opportunities for barbershops, salons, and community-based organizations to not only provide barber services, but to be a major voice of change for their local communities by providing fathers with key tips, information, and strategies on various topics. This January, barbershops and partners are challenging dads to model healthy behavior to their children and encouraging men to start thinking about their health now because men’s health matters. Healthy fathers = healthy families! For more information email info@fatherhood.gov or call 1-877-4DAD411 [1-877-432-2411]. Join the Twitter conversation via #MENSHEALTHMATTERS.
2. Carson, CA, January 17, 2015 – The NFL Players Association presents the NFLPA 18th Annual Collegiate Bowl on January 17, 2015 at 1 p.m. at the Stubhub Center in Carson, CA. The game features some of College Football’s best players from across the Country. The NFLPA is partnering with Fathers Incorporated and the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse for a second year to “celebrate mentoring on and off the field” and to support National Save Our Sons Night by giving away 2500 free tickets to fathers and their families to attend the Collegiate Bowl. Visit www.saveoursonsnight.com to get your free tickets or call 1-877-4DAD411 [1-877-432-2411]. Join the twitter conversation via #FATHERHOODBUZZ and #SAVEOURSONS.
3. Nationwide, January 18, 2015 – In conjunction with MLK Black Male Achievement Weekend, the Black Star Project announces national Take a Young Black Man to Worship Sunday on January 18, 2015, when thousands of young Black males across America will worship with Black men. How do you lead young men? Take them to worship! For more information, to find a place of worship near you, or to register your organization for this event, please call 773-285-9600 or visit www.blackstarproject.org.
4. Nationwide, January 24, 2015 – To wrap-up the January 2015 Fatherhood Buzz: Men’s Health Matters events, the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse will partner with the Million Hearts Initiative, Affordable Care Act Health Care navigators, community agencies, and barbershops across the country to engage fathers in critical conversations on the importance of being healthy by eating right, getting exercise, dealing with stress, signing up for health insurance made possible through the Affordable Care Act, and other health services in their communities. For more information email info@fatherhood.gov or call 1-877-4DAD411 [1-877-432-2411]. Join the twitter conversation via #MENSHEALTHMATTERS.
For more information on National Save Ours Sons Night and other affiliated events, visit www.saveoursonsnight.com or email fathersincorporated@gmail.com

Classifieds

Birmingham Times

December 31, 2014

Employment

Director/Senior Manager
City of Brighton
3700 Main Street, Brighton, AL 35020
Submit resume Monday – Thursday 10a.m to 3p.m
Deadline – January 10, 2015
BT01/01/15
_______________
Wanted Senior Citizen that
would like
to supplement income
Housekeeper
For light housework every 2 weeks for 3
hours. Must have references. You may
contact the following number:
(205) 213-5824
BT01/01/15
____________________

AUTOMOBILE

2007 Hyundai Tucson
Fully loaded Silver
Heated seats
Call Sam
205-815-6454

2012 Dodge Charger
Low miles Factory
Power train warranty
Call Ladarius at
205-380-0593

2009 Kia Borrego XE
3rd row seat
Family fun
Call Sam
205-815-6454

2008 Chevy Cobalt
Leather sunroof
White with Alloy rims
Gas saver Call Ladarius
205-380-6454

2007 Ford Fusion
Black with tinted
Windows low miles
Navigation system
Call Sam at
205-815-6454

2009 Honda Odyssey
White, Sunroof, Leather
Power rear and side doors
$1000.00 down and you drive
Ask for James Lewis
205-491-8484

2005 Toyota Highlander
Metallic Blue, Automatic
V-6 Leather,3rd row seat
$1,000 down ask for
James Lewis at 205-491-8484

2012 Honda Accord
V-6 Power sunroof
Leather, Hands free talking
$1,000.00 gets you in
Ask for James Lewis
205-491-8484
BT01/01/15
_________________________________
FREE PUPPIES

Free to good home, 2 Yorkie puppies for adoption,
Interested? contact me on rbradley987@gmail.com
BT01/01/15
_________________
LEGAL

Birmingham City Schools
Request for Proposal
Enterprise Document Solutions

Birmingham City Schools’ is seeking proposals for the acquisition of an Enterprise Document Solution System for the school district. The objective of this Request for Proposal is to create a strategic partnership with a Multi-function Device (MFD) manufacturer and their authorized reseller and service provider and/or Value-added-Reseller (VAR) to deliver necessary equipment and services for enterprise document services. Multi-Function Devices (MFD) should be capable of printing, scanning, copying and faxing. The Enterprise Document Solution shall deliver full time and onsite ongoing turnkey top-to-bottom support services (covering hardware, software and supplies) for a fully managed printing solution.

Proposals are due Monday, January 19, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. CDT. A non-mandatory Pre-Proposal Conference is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. CDT, Tuesday, January 13, 2015 at the address indicated below. Please submit questions to Edward McMullen, Director of Purchasing, no later than 2:00 p.m. CDT, Thursday, January 8, 2015.

Please contact Birmingham City School’s Purchasing Department to request a copy of the RFP at (205) 231-4885 or emcmullen@bhm.k12.al.us or download a copy from BCS website @ www.bhm.k12.al.us.

Edward McMullen
Director of Purchasing
Birmingham City Schools
Central Office
2015 Park Place, North
Birmingham, Alabama 35203

Birmingham City Schools reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive formalities and technical errors if, in Birmingham City School’s judgment, the best interest of Birmingham City School’s will thereby be promoted.
BT01/01/15
_________________
INVITATION FOR BIDS

The Jefferson County Commission will receive bids for Warrior Trafford Road Storm Shelter at Room 270 of the Jefferson County Courthouse until 9:00 a.m. local time on the 13th day of January, 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:

Construct a dual use storm shelter.

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 Warrior Trafford Road Storm Shelter. 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 $150.00 with Thompson Architecture, Inc., 2913 Cahaba Road, Birmingham, AL 35223
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 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 Midfield Community Center Renovations Project #CDBG12-03F-M02-MCC at Room 270 of the Jefferson County Courthouse until 9:00 a.m. local time on the 27th day of January, 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 & 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: “FELICIA SMITH”; (5) CONTRACTOR’S NAME AND ADDRESS
(6) ALABAMA LICENSE NUMBER; (7) CONTRACTOR’S DUNS NUMBER

Bids are invited upon the work as follows:

Addition of a Men’s and Women’s restroom to the rear of the existing Community Center. There are also minor refurbishments to the existing exercise room and minor life/safety work in the existing gymnasium.

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 Midfield Community Center Renovations Project #CDBG12-03F-M02-MCC. 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 the BIRMINGHAM CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY AUTHORITY, 601 37th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35222
The bid package may be obtained by depositing $100.00_ with Thompson Architecture, Inc., 2913 Cahaba Road, Birmingham, AL 35223
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 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 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.
BT01/01/15
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New Documentary “The All American Don” Tells the Story of the First African American Cigar Manufacturer

Birmingham Times

December 31, 2014

NATIONWIDE (BlackNews.com) – Don Abram Harris, known for being the first African American cigar manufacturer in the United States is bringing his life to the public. A documentary entitled The All American Don is scheduled to be released in 2015. It is his life’s story that takes you back to the tobacco fields of St. Mary’s County in Southern Maryland where his father, Joseph Jerome Harris grew up and worked.
In the film, Abram tells how his father’s life and stories played a major role in helping him to work towards accomplishing his goals, and how he went on to become the founder of Don Abram Harris Cigars.
From Southern Maryland to Puerto Rico to prison and back, his long time dream to own his own cigar company is portrayed in this awesome personal documentary that will bring you from a turbulent past and hard work to a very successful and blessed present.
The film will leave viewers with hope in their hearts that the American dream is still alive. The All American Don provides an insightful view of how the realities of life, good and bad and “how our hope and faith in God, plays a major role in forming our character and helping us to adjust to the ups and downs we entail in this life to ultimately get to where we want to go.”

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