Working for Working Families

September 4, 2014

This week, we celebrated Labor Day in honor of the working families throughout this country. And it is a fitting time to celebrate working families, since jobs are by far the number one issue on most peoples’ minds these days.
As we get closer to Election Day, you will see more and more political ads talking about “Jobs, jobs, jobs.” But job creation should be more than just a campaign slogan. These candidates should offer real solutions to our jobs shortage, and not just more talk.
I agree with Gov. Bentley that we need to look at tax incentives where we can to help bring in new jobs and protect existing ones. That’s why I was proud to support the Gadsden Goodyear bill a couple of years ago, and why Larry Means and I fought to create the Industrial Development Authority that helped save 1,400 jobs at Goodyear and create another 190.
When done right, we have seen tax incentives score huge wins for Alabama, like when we brought Mercedes to Tuscaloosa. But when we don’t do it right, we have lost heavily, as we did with ThyssenKrupp.
The state gave ThyssenKrupp over a billion dollars in tax incentives, but the company closed its doors and put its plant up for sale after only two years in operation, jeopardizing thousands of jobs.
And where I strongly disagree with the governor is on the possibility of paying for these tax incentives from money in the Education Trust Fund. When he proposed this idea, the governor said “you have to eat what you kill,” but cutting millions of dollars from our children’s education to pay for corporate tax incentives is more like “eating our young.”
And the truth is tax incentives will only get us so far. As some state leaders like to point out, Alabama is one of the most business friendly states in the country. Yet we are 49th for job creation and the only state in the country with a rising unemployment rate.
Clearly, continuing to do what we’ve been doing isn’t going to work.
But the good news is that job creation is a problem we know how to solve. Yes, we should continue to utilize tax incentives when appropriate (and when done the right way), but we need to look beyond that. We need to start investing more in our infrastructure.
Whether it’s improving roads and bridges or expanding wireless Internet access, investing in our infrastructure creates jobs today as well as in the future. In the short term, these government contracts and projects create jobs for the men and women who will do the work. In the long term, these projects make doing business more efficient, which in turn increases profits and allows businesses to hire more employees.
For example, smoother roads cause less damage to trucks. This means businesses can spend more on shipping their products and less on vehicle maintenance and medical bills for truck drivers, many of whom develop back problems driving on roads filled with potholes.
In addition to our infrastructure, we have to look at education – not just K-12, but vocational training and college opportunities, as well.
The reality is that over the next few years thousands of jobs will open up as the baby boom generation begins to retire. But the question is will today’s young people have the training to do these jobs?
And while we should work to make sure every child has the chance to pursue a college degree if that is what they want, we should also invest more in vocational training and workforce development opportunities. Because not everyone wants to go to college, but they can make a good living if they learn a trade. There are plenty of opportunities out there for our children to be successful – with or without a college degree. And we need to do everything we can to help them make those dreams become a reality.
But as the old saying goes: if you always do what you always did, you’ll always get what you always got. We cannot keep doing what we have been doing and expect to get a better result. If we want to be serious about creating and protecting jobs, then we need leaders in Montgomery who understand what we have to do.
I hope your Labor Day was restful. I have always believed that nobody works harder or has a better work ethic than the people of Alabama. Now we need leaders in Montgomery who will work just as hard for our working families.
Rep. Craig Ford is a Democrat from Gadsden and the Minority Leader in the Alabama House of Representatives.

The Way I See It

Birmingham Times

September 4, 2014

by Hollis Wormsby, Jr.

What if Life was More Like Football

I have watched a lot of football in the last few days and read more previews and reviews than I should probably admit. As I was doing so the question kept coming to me, what if life was more like football?
The first thing that stands out about football is that on a football team, especially at a high level like at Alabama and Auburn, everyone involved in the team has one primary goal, win the games. There is no philosophy. There is no political affiliation. There is a singular goal, win the game, and everyone buys into that goal and does their best to contribute their share towards the victory. In this state we have a little thing called the process in football, and the theory at that University is that everyone from the head coach, to the star quarterback, to people that work at the stadium are a part of winning process. And amazingly a part of that winning process is that everyone or nearly everyone buys into it. In real life it is hard for us to even commit to personal goals for long periods of time, and all too often we accept or make excuses for why our process didn’t work.
In football at a high level, each athlete is given a personal program for how they are expected to develop their skill set to be more able to contribute to the process. In real life people have ways to resist commitment, but in football coaches are able to coach this commitment from each and every athlete. In football the athlete is so sold on the goal that buying into the process is just the next step, though even in football we have those who choose not to make the step. In real life we have a lot more.
In football people are able to see past race and religion to the product on the field, for the most part. I say this – for while I have watched and followed the Tide for years on tv and various websites and they have always shown great love and support for Black athletes in general, in reading the comment on the boards this year, as Blake Sims attempts to win the quarterback position – it seems that in football as in life, there are those who don’t mind having you in the family as long as you know there are places you do not yet belong. As in following the comment boards this past week, while there were many who were complimentary of Sims’ efforts, there were also those who clearly did not want him on the field in that position, and they did not hide their feelings well. I am sure that President Obama can relate to this as to me the source of the hate in this country right now, is that so many people do not want a Black man in the White House and are finding any reason to be upset.
That leads me to the biggest difference between life and football. In football at the highest level there is a god/king in command, and there is no question regarding his authority. At Alabama Nick Saban’s word is gospel. The program is what he says it is, he employs who he wants to employ and fires who he no longer wants, and no one questions him, for as long as the process delivers. This absolute authority is the difference between football and life in a democracy. So while we certainly appreciate our democracy and all that has been sacrificed to make it what it is, is there still something we can learn from the authority that is entrusted in football coaches and the results that the best of them get? I think we can. I think that when we elect someone to do a job we need to trust them to do the job and believe in their process. And this is where it is like football, if they do not, then next election tell them to go home and elect a new coach – I mean leader – and give him or her the same authority. Before Nick Saban at Bama there was a man named Bear Bryant, and after Nick Saban there will be another man when Saban’s time is up, but what is important in football no matter how unhappy we are with the coach, we still respect his process and his authority to make the decision until we have the opportunity to consider replacement. As compared to real life, where some folks plan on throwing an eight year temper tantrum until the man currently in the White House is gone.
Or at least that’s the way I see it.

(Do you have a question or comment on this column? Hit me up at Facebook/HollisWormsby or email me at hjwormsby@aol.com.)

Classified

Birmingham Times

September 4, 2014

**Employment

*SALES PROFESSIONALS

*SummitMedia Birmingham radio station WBHJ-FM is looking for Full Time Sales Professionals.
This is a position that involves the sale of advertising on air, on line and on site through sponsorship
opportunities offered throughout the year. The candidate will be expected to establish relationships
with clients that are strong enough for the client to converse comfortably with the seller and share
their most pressing challenges with the sellers so that the seller will be able to bring back a well thought
out solution for the client. Other responsibilities include: finding and acquiring new business opportunities,
attending networking events and generally presenting a professional and polished image of the company
they represent. Candidate will also work closely with internal departments (ie: programming, promotions,
business and traffic) to help fulfill the client’s expectation with regard to all areas of their business relationship
with the company.

The successful candidate must be flexible, personable and able to orchestrate sales and promotional plans
Developed for clients successfully. The successful candidate must also be organized, dependable, self-motivated
And project a professional appearance and friendly demeanor. A valid driver’s license and background check is required.

If interested in applying for this position, please forward a resume to*SummitMedia Sales Department, *Attention: Kim Patton,
*2700 Corporate Drive, Suite 115, Birmingham, Alabama 35242, or forward electronically to *kim.patton@summitmediacorp.com

It is the policy of SummitMedia, Inc. to provide equal employment opportunity to all qualified individuals without regard to their race, color, religion, national origin, age or sex in all personnel actions including recruitment, evaluation, selection, promotion, compensation, training and termination.

Discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, age or sex is prohibited. If you believe you have been the victim of discrimination, You may notify the Federal Communications Commission, the Equal Opportunity Commission, or other appropriate agency.
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*University of Montevallo

We are currently accepting applications for a Tenure-track Assistant Professor or Non-tenure-track Instructor of Communication Science and Disorders. Additional information and application may be found at* https://jobs.montevallo.edu.

*UM is an EO Employer
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*ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Duties include; Scheduling travel and expense reporting. Coordination of offsite meetings, i.e. booking rooms, developing agendas, send your resume and salary expectations to: *sonllyn1@gmail.com
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*Wanted Senior Citizen that would like to supplement income
Housekeeper
Age 60 and over
For light housework every 2 weeks for 3
hours. Must have references. You may
contact the following number:
*(205) 213-5824
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**DRIVERS

*Drivers, CDL-A:  Home *EVERY Weekend! ALL Loaded/Empty Miles Paid! Dedicated Southeast! Or Walk Away Lease, No Money Down. 1-855-971-8522 BT09/04/14
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*See LOGO of ftp

*Drivers! Holland is hiring Regional Drivers at its Birmingham terminal.
21yr old w/ 1 year or 50k miles exp, w/ tanker & hazmat.
Local Drivers are home daily. Company paid health insurance.
Find your direction at * Hollandregional.com/careers! EEO/AAE
Minorities/Females/Persons with Disabilities/Protected Veterans
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**AUTOMOBILE

2011 Ford Fusion
Grey low miles
Inside changeable Neon
Lights Must See This One!
Call Larry 205-380-0593

2004 Mercedes 2 door
C-Class Black with Tan
Leather Very Nice
Call Floyd Morris
205-587-4313

2006 Chevy Cobalt
Blue low miles
Pwr. windows
Call Sammy
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2005 Chrysler 300
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2010 Dodge Charger
Grey, low miles
Factory Power Train Warranty
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**LEGALS

*ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
*PERSONNEL BOARD of JEFFERSON COUNTY 10TH FLOOR RENOVATION PACKAGE *BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA

The Jefferson County Purchasing Department will receive sealed Proposals from qualified General Contractors for the Personnel Board of Jefferson County 10th Floor Renovation Package, 2121 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd., Birmingham, Alabama, until 5:00pm on September 16, 2014, at the Purchasing Department, 8th Floor, Courthouse Complex, 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North,
Birmingham, AL 35203. The Bids will be opened on September 17th,
2014 at 2:00pm on the 8th Floor, Conference Room 830, Courthouse Complex,
716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North, Birmingham, Alabama 35203.

No Bids will be accepted after the time stated for receipt of Bids. This requirement will not be waived. The time will be determined by Ms. Carmen Jones, Buyer with the Purchasing Department, or her 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 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.

A bid bond, payable to the Personnel Board of Jefferson County, in the amount of 5% of the amount of the Bid, but not more than $10,000.00, 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 at the signing of the Contract.

General Contractors must attend the mandatory Pre-Bid Conference to bid this portion of the Work. The Pre-Bid Conference will be held at 2:00 PM on September 08, 2014 in the Purchasing Department, 8th Floor, Conference Room 830, Courthouse Complex. If the number of bidders who attend the pre-bid conference decreases so there is little or no competition, others may be allowed to bid or the bid may be postponed at the discretion of the Owner.

Drawings and Project Manual will be open to public inspection after Noon on August 28, 2014 at the office of Jefferson County General Services, #1 County Courthouse, office of Giattina Aycock Architecture Studio, Inc., Birmingham Construction Industry Authority, McGraw Hill Construction – Dodge in Birmingham, and Reed Construction Market Data in Birmingham.

Two sets of Bid Documents will be provided to each qualified General Contractor for a deposit of $300.00, made payable to the Architect, which will be refunded in full upon return of the documents in good condition within ten days of bid date. The deposit check is to be delivered to Alabama Graphics, 2801 5th Avenue South. Upon receipt of the deposit, Alabama Graphics will provide the General Contractor with two sets of Bid Documents. 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 bid deposit with the Architect and have attended the mandatory Pre-Bid Conference.

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 qualified 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 or all bids; to waive formalities and technicalities; and to proceed in its’ own best interests.
Mr. Lorren Oliver, Director
Personnel Board of Jefferson County
Birmingham, Alabama
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*DATE:
*August 14, 2014

To: Prospective Bidders
*INVITATION FOR BID NUMBER:
*15-01

*SEPARATE SEALED BIDS FOR:
Uniform Rental and Laundry Services

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

*BID OPENING:

*DATE:
*September 15, 2014

*TIME:
*10:00 a.m. CST

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

By submission of a bid, the bidder agrees, that if the bid is accepted, to enter into a contract with the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District (HABD), to complete all work as specified or indicated in the bid documents, for the contract price and within the contract time indicated in the attached IFB. The bidder further accepts all of the terms and conditions of the IFB.

The bid will remain open for the period specified in the IFB, must be independently arrived at, and be prepared in accordance with the instructions to bidders (form HUD-5369). In addition, the HUD-required certifications must be completed and submitted as part of the bid (see form HUD-5369).

A pre-bid conference will be held in accordance with the terms listed above. All bidders are encouraged to attend the pre-bid conference.

The bid price(s) will be included as provided in the attached IFB. Unless otherwise specified in the IFB, all prices will be on a firm-fixed-price basis and are not subject to adjustments based on costs incurred.

Bidders should be advised that, prior to award of any contract, the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District reserves the right to conduct a pre-award survey for the purpose of determining the bidder’s responsibility and capacity to perform the contract. This survey may include review of subcontracting agreements, financial capacity, and the quality of work performed on other contracts.

All bids must be signed and dated. If a joint venture is submitting the bid, each joint venture must sign the bid. Late bids will be handled in accordance with the form HUD-5369.

A copy of this solicitation is available at *www.habd.org under the Purchasing and Procurement Section. Questions regarding the attached IFB should be directed to the Procurement Administrator, in writing within ten days prior to the date and time set for the bid opening. Questions received after the deadline will not be answered.
Contracting Officer:
Naomi H. Truman, Executive Director
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DATE:
August 26, 2014

TO:
Prospective Offerors

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS:
15-03

SEPARATE SEALED PROPOSALS FOR:
Professional Audit Services

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

CLOSING DATE:
September 19, 2014

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 indicated 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
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*Final Notice of No Practicable Alternative of a Proposed
*Activity in a Floodplain
To: All interested Agencies, Groups and Individuals
This is to give notice that Jefferson County, Alabama under 24 CFR Part 58 has conducted an evaluation as required by Executive Order 11988, to determine the potential effect that its activity in the floodplain will have on the human environment for the Community Development Block Grant program under a grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Jefferson County published an Early Notice and Public Review of a Proposed Activity in a Floodplain. No comments were received during the comment period for the early notice.
The proposed Midfield Community Center project is located at 410 Grant Street in Midfield, Jefferson County, Alabama 35228. Jefferson County has evaluated all practicable alternatives to this project and has considered the possible adverse impacts that could result from undertaking this project within the floodplain and identified any possible measures which can be used to reduce or eliminate any adverse effects. The work Jefferson County is proposing in the area is being treated as follows:
1.   We are replacing an existing HVAC unit and some exit door lights and hardware. All of these elements are elevated above the floor level and are higher than the BFE.
2.   We are repainting some existing concrete block walls in the fitness room and installing new ceiling. The paint will not be damaged by a flood, and the ceiling is higher than the BFE.
3.   We are installing new athletic flooring material in the fitness room. This flooring is below the BFE, so we are specifying a solid rubber flooring that will not soak up water or be damaged by it.
Another portion of the work is an addition of new bathrooms for use by people utilizing the exterior portions of the community center. The bathrooms cannot be built in a practical manner higher than the BFE, so our strategy for floodwater mitigation is the following:
1.   All of the construction materials below the BFE, including the finishes, will be impervious to water and will not be damaged by water. The materials are as follows:
a.   The floors will be sealed concrete,
b.   The walls will be painted concrete masonry units,
c.   The toilet partitions will be solid phenolic core. No plywood or particleboard is being used.
d.   The doors will be hollow metal. No wood doors are being used.
e.   There will be no cabinetry within this area.
2.   We will install water “vents” at the floor level along the perimeter of the bathrooms.   This will allow floodwater into the bathrooms, but also allow the water to exit the bathrooms when the water subsides. The purpose of these vents is to eliminate the pressure caused by water build-up on one side of the wall during a flood event. The product will be equal to Smart-Vent, Model 1540-510. These vents are in conformance with the National Flood Insurance Program and FEMA Technical Bulletin 1/August 2008, titled Openings in Foundation Walls and Walls of Enclosures.
After careful evaluation and consideration of the proposed modifications to the scope of work, it appears that there is no practical alternative to locating the proposed project in a floodplain. This project is not creating any additional storm water run-off or impervious surfaces, so the floodplain will not be affected by the proposed construction.
There are three primary purposes for this notice.
1.   People who may be affected by activities in floodplains and those who have an interest in the protection of the natural environment should be given an opportunity to express their concerns and provide information about these areas.
2.   An adequate public notice program can be an important public educational tool. The dissemination of information about floodplains can facilitate and enhance Federal efforts to reduce the risks associated with the occupancy and modification of these special areas.
3.   As a matter of fairness, when the Federal government determines it will participate in actions taking place in floodplains, it must inform those who may be put at greater or continued risk.

Written comments must be received by *Jefferson County, Alabama at the following address on or *before September 12, 2014: Jefferson County Office of Community & Economic Development, *716 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N, Suite A-430, Birmingham, AL 35203 and (205) 325-5761, Attention: *W.D. Carrington, Commission President, during the hours of 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Comments may also be submitted via email at * smithf@jccal.org.
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*ADVERTISEMENT for BIDDER PRE-QUALIFICATION And NOTICE of *INTENT to RECEIVE BIDS *from PREQUALIFIED BIDDERS
Pre-qualification submittals will be received by the *Owner’s Representative/Project Manager, Jared Sparks on behalf of Office of the Associate Vice President, Facilities & Capital Projects, University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the University of Alabama Board of Trustees at* UAB Health System Planning, 2020 *Building, 2020 University Blvd., Birmingham, AL 35233 until 4:00 PM Central Time, September 22, 2014. *The original and two (2) duplicates of submittals together with a .pdf-formatted electronic version are required for pre-qualification approval; however, facsimile transmission copies may be transmitted to the *Project *Manager at (205) 975- 7000 to expedite the review process with hard-copies of the submittals to be delivered within 24 hours.
*UAB SW2 Lab Automation *For The *University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham, Alabama *UAB Project No.: H135028A
*A. SCOPE OF WORK:  *The scope of work consists of a multiple phase interior renovation of University Hospital’s Core *Laboratory including mechanical, electrical, fire alarm, plumbing, and architectural finishes that will *enable the installation of automated laboratory processing equipment. Demolition of old and *installation of new materials will be a part of the work. The installation of the automated laboratory *processing will be performed by a separate UAB Contractor concurrently with portions of this *project and must be coordinated with this project. The work will be performed under a single Prime *General Contractor who will coordinate the work of this project and connect with mechanical and *electrical equipment installed under a previous project. The laboratory operates continuously with no *down time and close coordination and project management controls must be maintained by the *Contractors throughout the project to insure that there are no interruptions to the services provided *by the laboratory. The Prime General Contractor and Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing *Subcontractors should have experience with projects performed in an operating hospital *environment and with the implementation and maintenance of infection control measures and interim *life safety measures in an *operating hospital.
*B. PRIME GENERAL CONTRACTOR, MECHANICAL SUBCONTRACTOR, AND *ELECTRICAL SUBCONTRACTOR BIDDER PRE-QUALIFICATIONS:  General Contractor and Subcontractor bidders interested in submitting a proposal must apply for pre-qualification and must be licensed under the Provision of Title 34, Chapter 8, and Code of Alabama, 1975. A copy of current Alabama Contractors license is to be included in pre-qualification submittal.  Only bidders who have completed the pre-qualification process and have been approved will be eligible to submit a bid for the Project. *Prospective Bidder’s Pre- qualification Package must be received by the *Owner’s Project Manager no later than 4:00 PM Central Time, September 22, 2014, after which no *further requests will be considered.
Pre-qualification Requirements Information Package may be obtained from the Architect *upon letterhead *request sent by mail or scanned into an email to kmullins@pooleandcompany.com.
The pre-qualification procedure is intended to identify responsible and competent prime contractor and subcontractor bidders relative to the requirements of the Project. Each prospective prime contractor and subcontractor bidder will be notified of the results of the pre-qualification, no later than *September 25, 2014 by *5:00 PM Central Time.
The Owner reserves the right to waive technical errors in applications, or abandon the pre-qualification process, should the interests of the Owner appear to be promoted thereby.
*Progress Design and Construction Documents:
Prior to the pre-qualification deadline, project progress plans and specifications may be examined at the following location:
*Architect: *POOLE & COMPANY ARCHITECTS, LLC 2 NORTH 20TH STREET, SUITE 1610 *BIRMINGHAM, AL 35203 *(205) 326-2206 *(205) 326-2201
kmullins@pooleandcompany.com
*C. BIDS BY PRE-QUALIFIED PRIME GENERAL CONTRACTOR BIDDERS
*Documents:
After notice to prequalified bidders is given, the prequalified General Contract bidders may obtain bid documents through the UAB Digital Plan Room at http://uab.algraphics.com/, 2801 Fifth Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233.
Bid documents will be available at the following locations after notice to pre- qualified bidders is given. Drawings and specifications may be examined at the Office of the Architect; at the AGC Internet Plan Room, 5000 Grantswood Road, Irondale, AL 35210; at the Birmingham Construction Industry Authority, 601 37th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35222; and at the Reed Construction Data Office, 30 Technology Pkwy, South, Suite 500, Norcross, GA 30092- 2912; and electronically through McGraw-Hill Construction Dodge.
*Bonds:
A certified check or bid bond payable to the University of Alabama at Birmingham in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000 must accompany the bidder’s proposal. Performance and Statutory Labor and Material Payment Bonds will be required at the signing of the Contract.
*Bids:
Bids must be submitted on proposal forms or copies thereof furnished by the Architect. No bid may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids for a period of ninety (90) days. The Owner reserves the right to reject bids if such action is determined to be in the best interest of the Owner. The Owner reserves the right to revoke pre-qualification of any bidder in accordance with Section 39-2-12, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended in 1997 (by Act 97-225). *The Bid Date is October 16, 2014 at 2:00 PM Central *Time at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, UAB 2020 Building Large Conference Room, 2020 *University Blvd., Birmingham, Alabama 35233.
*Proposals may be hand delivered or received by mail on the date of the bid opening at the Office of Jared *Sparks, Project Manager, 2020 Building, 2020 University Blvd., Birmingham, Alabama 35233, until 12:00 *noon. After 12:00 noon of the date of the bid opening, proposals must be hand delivered and presented at *the bid opening. Sealed proposals shall be submitted in triplicate and shall be properly identified. All *proposals received after 2:00 p.m. on October 16, 2014 will be returned unopened.
*Nonresident Prime Contractor Bidders:
Under Section 39-3-5, Code of Alabama, 1975, nonresident prime contractor bidders must accompany any written bid documents with a written opinion of an attorney licensed to practice law in such nonresident prime contractor bidder’s state of domicile as to the preferences, if any or none, granted by the law of the state to its own business entities whose principal place of business are in that state in the letting of any or all public contracts. Resident prime contractors in Alabama, as defined in Section 39-2- 12, are granted preference over nonresident prime contractors in awarding of contracts in the same manner and to the same extent as provided by the laws of the state of domicile of the nonresident.
*Fire Alarm Work
In accordance with Title 34, Chapter 33A (the ACT), of the Code of Alabama 1975, bidders for fire alarm work of this project, if any, must include with their bid evidence of licensure as required by the ACT by including with the bid submittal a valid State Fire Marshal’s permit.
*D. PRE-BID CONFERENCE *A mandatory Pre-Bid Conference, followed by a mandatory walk-thru, will be held on October 2, 2014 at *2:00 p.m. at the UAB 2020 Building Large Conference Room. It is mandatory that all pre-qualified prime contractor bidders and Subcontractors attend the Pre-Bid Conference.
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*FORM OF ADVERTISEMENT FOR COMPLETION

*LEGAL NOTICE

In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39 Code of Alabama, 1975, notice is hereby given
that Bennett Building, Inc. Contract for Alterations to existing Training Center For Bevill State
Community College, for the State of Alabama and the City of Jasper, AL, Owner(s), and
have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor,
materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify PH&S Architects
Bennett Building, Inc., 120 Shady Acres Road, Alabaster, AL 35007
____________________

Essence, New Orleans OK 5-Year Contract Extension

Birmingham Times

September 4, 2014

NEW ORLEANS (AP) – The Essence Festival will remain in New Orleans, at least for the next five years, organizers said Friday.
Essence announced the contract extension, noting the annual celebration of African-American music and culture will remain in the city through 2019.
“Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne and Mayor Mitch Landrieu, along with their teams, have embraced the Essence Festival as their own,” said Essence Communications Inc. President Michelle Ebanks in a news release. “Through collaboration, we have created a one-of-a-kind experience that enables the community to revel in culture, be entertained, informed and inspired within the rich heritage that only New Orleans can provide.”
NOLA.com/The Times-Picayune reports the festival is held over the July 4th weekend and includes nighttime ticketed concerts in the Superdome and free, daytime seminars at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.
Recently, Essence has expanded its footprint to include a free, mini-festival in Woldenberg Park, alongside the Mississippi River. Private events and parties also fill other venues around town.
The festival launched in 1995 as a one-time celebration to mark the 25th anniversary of Essence Magazine. The success of that first year convinced organizers to make it an annual event.
In 2014, the festival celebrated its 20th anniversary. Prince nearly sold out the Superdome on the festival’s first full night. (Because seats cannot be sold behind the massive stage, the capacity of the Superdome for Essence is approximately 45,000, significantly less than for a Saints game.) Other featured acts included Mary J. Blige, Lionel Richie, Charlie Wilson and Jill Scott.
Many thousands more attended the daytime sessions, where speakers ranged from Alicia Keys and Robin Roberts to Steve Harvey and Al Sharpton.
The event’s estimated annual economic impact exceeds $200 million, organizers have said.
Over the years, other cities, including Atlanta, have attempted to lure the festival away from New Orleans. The only festival staged outside New Orleans was in 2006 when it was moved to Houston’s Reliant Park while the Superdome was undergoing repairs following Hurricane Katrina.
Attendees generally agreed that New Orleans, with its multitude of venues within easy walking distance of hotels and the French Quarter, was a far better fit for the Festival.
“The Essence Festival has become an integral part of New Orleans and Louisiana from a tourism standpoint,” Dardenne said. “We are pleased that the partnership we’ve built with Essence will continue for another five years.”
“This event attracts artists and participants from around the world and creates an international platform to both celebrate culture and engage in critical conversations that affect our communities,” Landrieu said. “In addition, the festival creates a lasting economic impact in our city and has positioned New Orleans as a top Fourth of July destination.”

Timothy Huffman III “Official Clutch Band” performs Jazz at ASU

Birmingham Times

September 4, 2014

Timothy Huffman III, a phenomenal young drummer from Birmingham, Alabama is beginning to take the music world by storm. He is the founder of “Official Clutch Jazz Band.” They will be opening for “Jazz on the Grass,” September 1, (Labor Day) on the Alabama State University Campus.
Timothy has performed with many seasoned artists. Musicians, young and old respect his musical talent. Timothy is a product of the The Ruben Studdard Foundation for the Advancement of Children in the Music Arts. Timothy is humble and acknowledges that his gift comes from God. He gives credit to his mentor, Dr. Frank Adams Sr. Timothy plans to pursue a dual degree in music technology and business.

Vivica A. Fox Celebrates 50th Birthday with a Jamaican Bash!

Birmingham Times

September 4, 2014

NEW YORK, N.Y. – Vivica A. Fox continued her birthday festivities this past weekend by jet setting to beautiful Montego Bay, Jamaica. The birthday bash was held at the exclusive Rosehall Great House. The fabulous shindig was sponsored by FLOW Jamaica.
The intimate affair was attended by 125 of Jamaica’s top politicians, CEOS, industry tastemakers, and close friends, including actress Wendy Raquel Robinson and Real Housewives of Atlanta star (and Jamaican native) Peter Thomas.
Vivica looked stunning in a gown designed by local designer Uzuri International Designs.

Son of Soul Music Legend Johnnie Taylor, FLOYD TAYLOR’s, New Deluxe Edition Album

Birmingham Times

September 4, 2014

The name “Taylor” is royalty in Soul music, thanks to the late Johnnie Taylor. His son, the recently departed Floyd Taylor, took the torch and ran with it following his father’s death and made a name for himself all the way up to his own death this past year.
After successful albums with Malaco Records he had signed with CDS Records for one album. That album is now being released in expanded form as “‘Bout It ‘Bout It: All Of Me Deluxe.” This 16-track package features the full out-of-print All Of Me (which features the hit songs “I’m ‘Bout It ‘Bout It”, “All Of You, All Of Me”, “Baby I Love You” and “(Time Out) Cut To The Chase”) album along with six bonus tracks, five of which have never been released.
Floyd Singletary (Taylor), was born in Chicago and sang with a band at Dusable High School in Chicago, where he graduated. His first shows were at the Regal Theater in Chicago but Floyd held day jobs working at Children’s Memorial Hospital and Mercy Hospital while waiting for his chance to follow in his father’s footsteps.
During the 1970’s, Floyd joined his father on several concert tours and also performed with other big names like Natalie Cole, Patti LaBelle, Aretha Franklin, Johnny “Guitar” Watson, Bobby Womack, and more. Floyd remained a member of the Johnnie Taylor revue, off and on, from the mid-seventies until 1999. He also worked around Chicago on the local club circuit; his uncanny resemblance to Johnnie, both physically and vocally, immediately attracted attention. Then, on Wednesday, May 31, 2000, Johnnie Taylor died in his home in the Dallas suburb of Duncanville. Among those who sang for him at the service that day was Floyd; among the congregants who heard Floyd sing was Tommy Couch Jr. of Malaco Records, who signed him shortly thereafter. (Ironically, Johnnie himself had joined Malaco after Couch heard him sing at the funeral of soul-blues pioneer Z.Z. Hill in 1984).
Floyd Taylor passed away at the age of 60 in February of this year.

Speaking of Soaps

Birmingham Times

September 4, 2014

BY MEREDITH COOPER

THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL
Brooke felt blindsided by Deacon when he showed up at her door expecting an answer to his proposal. Fresh from her trip, Caroline returned to a perturbed Rick who vented to her about his frustrations regarding Ridge’s lack of designs. Deacon trusted that Brooke will soften her attitude towards him after spending a warm morning with him and Hope. Katie felt obligated to defend her fiancé when Rick became demanding regarding Ridge’s work. Ridge discovered that his ability to draw has returned but not without the assistance of Caroline. With Rick pressuring her about the reason why Ridge has been slacking with his designs, Katie felt compelled to reveal the secret. Ivy confided in Aly her true intentions towards helping Liam get over his heartbreak. Having overheard the conversation with Aly, Hope confronted Ivy about her intent. Ivy hosted an Australian-themed barbeque at the Forrester mansion and invited her closest friends. Liam became a bit concerned when he realized that everyone at the barbeque was coupled up. Quinn paid a visit to Bill and made a bold confession, hoping that he would become her ally. Hope shared her feelings about the possibility of Liam moving on with Ivy to Wyatt.
THIS WEEK: Wyatt urges Hope to move on. Bill reels from Quinn’s confession.

DAYS OF OUR LIVES
Kristen stunned Marlena with a revelation. Brady surprised Theresa with a kiss. Kayla delivered bad news to John’s loved ones. Nicole’s attempt to manipulate Eric backfired. Kristen made a power move that sent ripples throughout Salem. Marlena was faced with a tough choice. Theresa’s high quickly hit a low when it came to Brady. Sami and Nicole got into a nasty tiff. Eric was horrified by Marlena’s huge request. Kristen and Theresa faced off over Brady. Aiden threw caution to the wind with Hope. Sami accused EJ of secretly working with Stefano. Kate and Sami tried to prevent Stefano’s imminent return to Salem. Eric gave Kristen his answer. Clyde met with his competition. Abigail tried to work things out with Ben.
THIS WEEK: Ben has a decision to make about Abigail. Stefano makes a dramatic entrance.

GENERAL HOSPITAL
Port Charles said goodbye to a loved one. Due to recent events, Nina pondered if she should come clean to Silas. Michael probed Morgan about his relationship status with Kiki. Tracy promised Alice to do everything she could to save her life but only with strings attached. Elizabeth was taken aback when she found Nikolas and Britt together at Spencer’s day camp. Levi took extreme measures with Maxie and Lulu. Sabrina was stunned about new revelations regarding her car accident. Kiki accidentally eavesdropped on Sonny and Carly. Later in the day, Silas opened up to Kiki about his feelings for Nina. Nina informed Silas that they should move forward with their plans to have a baby. Ava made another attempt to convince Franco to help her get the AJ recording. Sonny updated Michael and Morgan on the status of Lulu. A mystery man was revealed in conjunction with Levi’s plot. After learning some information from Obrecht about what happened to Faison, Britt questioned the true identity of Nathan’s father. Sabrina randomly bumped into the person she suspects caused her crash. With the help of Silas, Patrick got closer to the truth about his accident and shared this information with Sabrina. Nina disclosed her baby plans with Franco. Carly asked Kiki for a big favor. Sonny calmed Carly’s fears about the truth being exposed. Rosalie suspected that Nina has another plan up her sleeve. Ava told Julian about her recent bizarre encounters. Meanwhile, Alexis and Julian continued to long for each other. After her recent visit to Crichton-Clark, Sam still thought Nina’s lying. Sabrina and Patrick disagreed about who is the culprit behind their accident, and Sabrina made a vow. Franco attempted to form a relationship with Josslyn. Later, Spencer and Josslyn plotted a way to keep Emma and Cameron apart. Nina conspired with Rosalie to take down the next name on her list. Kiki confided in Morgan. Emma started acting out because she misses Robin and later overheard some disturbing information.
THIS WEEK: Emma shares this news with Spencer and as a result, he makes a confession. Sam warns Silas to watch his back with Nina.

THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS
Jack revealed to Summer that he has asked Kelly to move in with him. Summer told Austin that Jack might have given up on her mother, but she won’t. Later, Kelly started to wonder if Jack really was ready to let go of Phyllis. Determined to prove his commitment to Kelly, Jack put all of Phyllis’s things in a box and sealed it closed. Victor was frustrated by Phyllis’s lack of progress and showed her pictures of Sharon and Summer in hopes of getting some kind of reaction. Meanwhile, Nikki urged Victor to forget about Sharon’s secret. Later, she attended an AA meeting and came home to Ian at her doorstep. He told her they had unfinished business. Stitch told Victoria that Abby kissed him. When he explained Abby did it to make Tyler jealous, Victoria said Abby used him and so did she – she just wanted to hurt Billy. Stitch thought it may have started that way, but didn’t end that way. He then asked if this was Victoria’s way of saying goodbye. Later, Billy confronted Victoria about their divorce. He reminded her that he proposed to her four years ago today and wanted to know why she picked today to send him the final papers. He asked her if she would still marry him if she could go back in time and she admitted she would. Filled with hope, Billy asked if the divorce was off. Later, Ashley told Billy she had a plan to distract Stitch away from Victoria. Ashley returned to Genoa City and shared with her brothers that she has come up with a new fragrance. Meanwhile, Neil realized he can’t go back to work yet and went to see a doctor about his sight. Later, Jack told Devon that he noticed the chemistry between him and Hilary. Colin went to Cane for some business advice. Cane agreed to help, but only if Colin came clean about his mystery meetings.
THIS WEEK: Malcolm is on mission and comes back to seek family harmony. Nikki makes a new friend that could be a bad influence on her.

God Help The Girl: A Musical Film

Birmingham Times

September 4, 2014

By Esther Callens

Many gems are found while walking along the unbeaten path. Surprisingly, today’s jewel happens to be in the form of a video. Written and directed by Stuart Murdoch is the award winning independent film, God Help The Girl (release – September 2014), a delightful, coming of age musical. Emotionally charged, yet highly animated, Murdoch presents a well written storyline that appeals to all ages.
Murdoch tells the story of Eve (Emily Browning) in God Help The Girl. To be so young and vibrant –emotionally, Eve is in a bad way and depression is her best friend. While going through in-house treatment she finds that writing songs provides a suitable therapy for her. Eventually she meets James (Olly Alexander) and Cassie (Hannah Murray) who both come with their own baggage. James is an odd fellow who at best is described as a peculiar bird. Although she doesn’t portray herself to be the duchess, Cassie is somewhat snobbish. While these three outcasts are finding themselves, they find music and forge an unlikely friendship. They start a band.
Things progress well for the new group but are they enough? Is music enough to keep Eve centered? Or will she return and dive deeper into her own personal abyss? With God Help The Girl, Stuart Murdoch has portrayed the young psyche at its best – at a pivotal stage and time. His Infusion of music amidst the Glasgow backdrop perfectly captures the emotional rollercoaster that’s to be expected from a person with Eve’s mental status.
It is not a mystery as to why God Help The Girl is the recipient of 2014 Sundance Film Festival World Cinema Dramatic Special Jury Award (for the Delightful Ensemble Performance, and How the Director Brought His Own Unique Universe into Cinema). With the extraordinary cast and the impressive film score it was certain to make the industry sit up and take notice. Barry Mendel is the producer with executive producers Chris Curling, Chris Faulls, Steve Milne and Phil Robertson.

Musical Notes

Birmingham Times

September 4, 2014

By Esther Callens

To sum it up—outstanding! Arrival, the latest album by pianist and composer Terry Marshall presents an extraordinary collection. With five originals and six arrangements of some significant standards, Marshall has come up with the perfect merger of the old and new. The results yielded an assemblage of tracks that complement each other exquisitely. Nothing fake is here as Marshall brought the real deal!
Marshall made sure not to disappoint listeners on Arrival as he added in a few surprises. First the set opens with Teresa, the ultimate smooth jazz tune. The piano/bass duo on “April In Paris” is outstanding – a classic’s classic. Marshall and company really burns on the finale – “Blues.” Sprinkled among the fantastic recording are some beautiful vocal arrangements. They include “Upside Down”, “This Bitter Earth”, “Begin Cool” and “Moodies Mood For Love.” No need to mention that they took these songs to celestial levels! Terry Marshall’s Arrival has made an impressive grand entrance. Likewise, fans are glad he did!

Track Listings: Teresa; Upside Down; This Bitter Earth; Being Cool; Nostalgia; Questions And Answers: Moodies Mood For Love; Speak To My Heart; Arrival; April in Paris; Blues.
Album personnel: Terry Marshall (piano); Alejandro Lucini, Harold Summey; Tracey Cutler, Warren Atiba Taylor (saxophone), Muneer Nasser (trumpet), Kevin Williams, Ben Young, D. L. Watson (guitar); Iva Ambush, Kendra Johnson, DeCastro Brown (vocals); Leonardo Lucini, Dave Marsh, Donnie West (bass).

Live In New York City is the new music offering from the multi-talented pianist and composer Vincent Lyn. Known for excelling in a plethora of fields, (Acting, Martial Arts, Modeling, etc.), he achieved the same with his music. His latest, which was recorded at Carnegie Hall in December 2013, is a thoroughly modern, wonderful collection of easy listening tracks. Track Listing: Amor Por Favor; Claire De Lune/ Flamenco Sketches; Sonata In E Flat; The Loving Touch; Gay’s Blues; Swan; Secret Garden; Sonata In C Minor; Cantowood; 4 Crazies; What Are You Doing The Rest Of Your Life; Make Me A Memory; Stolen Moments. Album Personnel: Vincent Lyn (piano); Melissa Aldana (tenor saxophone); Pablo Menares (bass); Shirazette Tinnin (percussion).

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