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ASU Track Releases 2014 Outdoor Schedule

By
Birmingham Times
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0

Alabama StateMONTGOMERY – Alabama State University track and field head coach Ritchie Beene announces the 2014 Outdoor Track & Field Schedule following a successful 2013-2014 Indoor campaign which saw the Lady Hornets win its sixth straight indoor crown and the men finishing second by a slim two points to Grambling State University.
The Hornets will kick off the season within the state of Alabama as on March 14th -15th they will travel down to Mobile to compete in the Battle of I65 hosted by South Alabama. Then travel to Houston, Texas to run in the TSU Relays on March 21-22nd hosted by Texas Southern University.
After a short break the Hornets will continue their season April 4th-5th as they will compete in Gainesville, Fla. at the always exciting Florida Relays hosted by the University of Florida. On April 11th-12th ASU will travel back to Florida to run in the Seminole Invitational hosted by Florida State University in Tallahassee.
The War Eagle Invitational hosted by Auburn will serve as the final tune-up meet before SWAC outdoor championships for the Hornets as they will participate in the meet on April 18th-19th in Auburn, Ala.
The outdoor SWAC Championship is slated for April 25th- 27th in New Orleans, La., where the women will be looking to make it five wins in a row and the men will be looking to improve on a sixth place finish from last season.
“We’re excited about heading into the outdoor season,” said Beene.  “We have made a few revisions on our schedule because we wanted to give our team the best chance to be successful in the best climates to compete in.”
“We have a competitive schedule and will look to reach new highs and goals. We will take these couple of weeks to work out and prepare our athletes for our opening meet down at South Alabama.”
The outdoor season will continue after the championships on May 16th-17th in Atlanta, Ga. at the Georgia Tech Invitational and will conclude for the Hornets with a trip to the NCAA East Regional which is set for May 24th-25th in Jacksonville, Fla. and the NCAA Outdoor Championship in Eugene, Ore. on June 11th- 14th.

Classifieds

By
Birmingham Times
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0

ClassifiedsEmployment

Administrative Assistant I

The University of Montevallo is accepting applications for an Administrative Assistant  I. Visit:
jobs.montevallo.edu
UM is an EO
Employer
BT03/06/14
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JOB POSTING

*Position:  Sales Representative (2)
*Resume Deadline: March 8, 2014

*SummitMedia WAGG-AM Birmingham and WALJ-FM Tuscaloosa are 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 clients to converse comfortably with the seller and share their most pressing challenges with the seller 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 are required.

If interested in applying for this position, please forward a resume to *SummitMedia Sales *Department, Attention Linda McNeal, 2700 Corporate Drive, Suite 115, Birmingham, *Alabama 35242, or forward electronically to *Linda.McNeal@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 Employment Opportunity Commission, or other appropriate agency.
BT03/06/14
__________________
*MULTI  MEDIA JOURNALIST
Looking for an innovative television and online multi media journalist who can make a difference.  Must be able to shoot video, write, edit, embrace social media and go live with your story.  Creativity is a must.   College degree and minimum of 2 years TV news reporting experience preferred.  Background in news photography preferred.  Available to work irregular hours, weekends and holidays.  To apply, send resume and non-returnable tape to Jean Ziegert, HR, ABC 33/40, Concourse Parkway #200, Birmingham, AL  35244.  Fax to 205-982-3928 or e-mail to *jeanz@abc3340.com.  No phone calls please.  EOE
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*Program Manager

Neighborhood Housing Services, a leading
housing services nonprofit in Birmingham, Alabama
seeks a Program Manager to lead the housing rehab program.
The Program Manager is responsible for providing direction to
housing rehabilitation staff, contractors, and other housing repair service
providers. The Program Manager is considered the crew leader.
Work involves housing rehab assessments,
developing material lists and scope of work for the
rehab project, soliciting bids for materials and
non-NHSB services, hands-on repairs, refreshing
and renewing housing selected by NHSB for rehabilitation,
and other project management duties as assigned.

To view a complete job description go to our website,
http://www.nhsbham.org/current-opportunities.php.
Send resume and job application to the Executive Assistant
via fax or email. Neighborhood Housing Services is an
Equal Opportunity employer.

Fax: 205-949-4357
Email: karon@nhsbham.org
BT03/06/14
____________________
*Housing Acquisition Rehabilitation General Laborer

Neighborhood Housing Services, a leading
housing services nonprofit in Birmingham, Alabama
seeks a Housing Acquisition Rehabilitation General Laborer.
This position performs tasks involving physical labor
at construction or rehab sites and may require the
operation of hand and power tools of all types.
Projects may require the laborer to clean and prepare sites,
dig trenches, set braces to support the sides of excavations,
erect scaffolding, and clean up rubble, debris and other
waste materials. This position may also assist other craft workers.

To view a complete job description go to our website,
http://www.nhsbham.org/current-opportunities.php.
Send resume and job application to the Executive Assistant
via fax or email. Neighborhood Housing Services is an Equal Opportunity employer.

Fax: 205-949-4357
Email: karon@nhsbham.org
BT03/06/14
____________________
DRIVERS

Drivers:  $10,000.00 Bonus to Teams with Hazmat!
Dedicated Run get home weekly, 4500 to 5600 miles
a week, great benefits, equipment!
Teams Call Transco Lines Today: 1-866-423-4367
BT03/06/14
____________________
MOTORCYCLE

1996 HARLEY DAVIDSON
motorcycle -giving away – in good shape
and perfect condition to good rider. Email:
*fredmanjames1@gmail.com
or call 754-212-0106
BT03/06/14
____________________
AUTOMOBILE

2010 Dodge Charger
Fully Loaded
Call Floyd Morris 205 587 4313

2005 Dodge Durango
Full Size SUV Loaded
Call Sammy 205 814 8454

2005 Crown Victoria
Call Ivory 205 821 0491

2009 Chevy Cobalt
Gas Saver
Call Sammy 205 814 8454

2006 Ford Expedition
Trade in cash price
$7,995 CASH
Call Ivory 205 821 0491
BT03/06/14
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**APARTMENT FOR RENT

Hueytown.  2 weeks Free Rent! Pay 1 month rent, plus $300.00 deposit.  Edenberry Apartments. Total electric, stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, central a/c. Residence private on-site laundry. No washer/dryer hook-ups. 1 bedroom $495 water furnished. 2 & 3 bedroom starting at $550, tenant pay water on 2 & 3 bedrooms. 425 Oakwood Avenue, Hueytown 35023. Call 205-879-2177 ext. 200 or 213.
BT03/06/14
(HZline)
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LEGALS

*TO:
Prospective Bidders

*INVITATION FOR BID NUMBER:
14-05

*SEPARATE SEALED BIDS FOR:
*Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance                                 *Services

*BIDS WILL BE RECEIVED AT:
HABD Central Office

Procurement Administrator

1826 Third Avenue South

Birmingham, AL  35233-1905

*BID OPENING:

*DATE:
*March 14, 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
BT03/06/14
_______________
03/06/14*DATE:
*February 18, 2014

*TO:
Prospective Bidders

*INVITATION FOR BID NUMBER:
14-07

*SEPARATE SEALED BIDS FOR:
*Moving Services

*BID OPENING:

*DATE:
*March 13, 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
BT03/06/14
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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, Mark McKay on behalf of Office of the *Associate Vice President, Facilities & *Capital Projects, University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the University of Alabama Board of Trustees at UAB Hospital Planning, 2020 University Blvd., Birmingham, AL *35294 until 4:00 PM Central Time March 24, 2014.  The original and two (2) duplicates *of submittals, together with a PDF formatted electronic version are required for pre-qualification submittal and approval. However, an email attaching the PDF formatted electronic version of the submittals may be transmitted to clayb@bpa.net and hollys@bpa.net  with a copy to *mmckay@uabmc.edu to expedite the process with hard copies of the submittals to be delivered within 24 hours.
*REPLACEMENT OF MEDICATION DISPENSING SYSTEM
*UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA HOSPITAL
*FOR THE
*UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM
*PROJECT NO.:  H135043A / UH140125

*A.    SCOPE OF WORK:

Work consists of miscellaneous renovations throughout the Hospital complex including patching, painting, replacement of finishes, installation of electrical and data outlets, new millwork, and minor items of plumbing and HVAC.    Work will be done on operating nursing units which will require the Contractor to strictly follow infection control guidelines.

*B.    PRIME CONTRACTOR BIDDER PRE-QUALIFICATIONS:

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

Only prime contractor bidders who have completed the pre-qualification process and that have been approved will be eligible to submit a bid for the Project.  *Prospective Bidder’s Pre-qualification Package must be received by the *Owner’s Project Manager no later than 4:00 PM Central Time, March 24, *2014 after which no further requests will be considered.

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

The pre-qualification procedure is intended to identify responsible and competent prime contractor bidders relative to the requirements of the Project.  Each prospective prime contractor bidder will be notified of the results of the pre-qualification, no later than *March 31, 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:
Birchfield Penuel & Associates
2805 Crescent Avenue, Suite 200
Birmingham, Alabama  35209
Mr. Clay Birchfield
205-870-1876
205-870-3058
clayb@bpa.net

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

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

Bid documents will be available at the following locations after notice to pre-qualified bidders is given.  Drawings and specifications may be examined at the Office of the Architect; at the AGC Internet Plan Room, 5000 Grantswood Road, Irondale, AL 35210; at the Birmingham Construction Industry Authority, 601 37th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35222; and at the 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 April 17, 2014 at 2:00 PM Central Time at the *University of Alabama at Birmingham, UAB Hospital Planning, 2020 *University Blvd., Birmingham, Alabama 35294.

*Proposals may be hand delivered or received by mail on the date of the bid *opening at the Office of  Juan DeOnis, Director of Program Planning *Facilities and Capital Projects, 2020 Building, 2020 8th Avenue south, *Birmingham, Alabama  35233, until 12:00 noon.  After 12:00 noon of the *date of the bid opening, proposals must be hand delivered and presented at *the bid opening.  Sealed proposals shall be submitted in triplicate and shall be *properly identified.  All proposals received after 2:00 p.m. on April 17, 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.

*D.    PRE-BID CONFERENCE
*A mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held on March 31, 2014 at 2:00 *p.m. at the site of the work.  Meet at the main first floor lobby of the West *Pavilion.  It is mandatory that all pre-qualified prime contractor bidders attend the Pre-Bid Conference.

BT03/06/14
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2014 Lexus LX 570, Luxury

By
Birmingham Times
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0

Lexusby Cheryl Eldridge and wire reports

Lexus’s  quote the “Pursuit of Perfection” proved its standard with last week’s tester, the 2014 LX570  five door  luxury SUV.
The treat of test-driving a smooth ride with strong brakes and luxury features galore coated in  starfire pearl was perfect.  My  $89,805 fully loaded tester’s name speaks for itself.
The Lexus really attracts all audiences and  stands out in a crowd and makes its grand entrance with its chrome exterior finishing and  20″ rims.
The 2014 Lexus LX 570 looks like a Toyota Land Cruiser but offers all the comfort, convenience and classy presence you’d expect from a Lexus. As a result, the LX 570 can handle just about anything you throw at it, whether it’s pulling a heavy trailer, climbing a remote mountainside trail or just looking pretty at the country club’s valet stand. But in achieving these disparate attributes, the LX also ends up with a fair number of drawbacks.
There are a ton of  comfort and convenience features, ranging from heated and ventilated front seats to an available 19-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound system that would put most home audio systems to shame. And that’s to say nothing of the liberal use of high-quality materials that create an opulent cabin on par with many of the world’s top luxury sedans. In addition, the LX’s strong 5.7-liter V8 engine, sophisticated full-time four-wheel-drive system and adaptive air suspension give it plenty of capability on snow-choked streets and rutted, rocky trails alike. The LX 570 also embodies the Lexus brand’s well-deserved reputation for outstanding build quality. There is also the DVD players which are located behind the driver and passenger’s seat. My son really enjoyed watching his favorite DVDs, while his sisters listened to their favorite radio stations from iTunes.
My 2014 Lexus LX 570 is a full-size SUV with seating for eight passengers which I enjoyed; everyone in my family had enough legroom and armroom. The third-row seat is a 50/50-split design with sections that fold up against the sides of the cargo compartment when not in use.
The LX 570 is offered in a single trim level with a long list of standard features. On the outside you’ll find 20-inch alloy wheels, an adaptive suspension, automatic load leveling, adaptive and automatic xenon headlights, foglights, power-folding heated auto-dimming outside mirrors, a sunroof, running boards, a power liftgate and keyless entry and ignition.
Inside, the LX comes with four-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, heated power front seats (10-way driver, eight-way passenger), driver seat memory functions, a 60/40-split reclining and power-sliding second-row seat, a power-folding third-row seat and a 120-volt household-style power outlet. Electronics are organized around a touchscreen interface and include a rearview camera, a navigation system, voice controls, the Lexus Enform suite of app-based services (including Pandora, Yelp and iHeartRadio), Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and a nine-speaker audio system with a CD changer, satellite radio, HD radio and an iPod/USB audio interface.
The Luxury option package adds ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, a cooled storage bin and upgraded leather upholstery. Also available are front and rear parking sensors, front- and side-view parking cameras, adaptive cruise control (includes a pre-collision warning system), a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system and a 19-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound audio system. The ventilated front seats and heated second-row seats are also offered as stand-alone options.
The 2014 Lexus LX 570 boasts a 5.7-liter V8 engine that produces 383 horsepower and 403 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time four-wheel-drive system are standard. The latter includes hill-start assist, crawl control and a driver-selectable multi-terrain system. Properly equipped, the LX will tow up to 7,000 pounds.
The LX’s EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings are low even for this class at 14 mpg combined (12 mpg city/17 mpg highway), so yes it’s a pretty gas guzzler.
On the safety side, every 2014 Lexus LX 570 comes standard with antilock brakes, traction control, stability control with trailer sway control, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and front knee airbags. Also standard is Lexus Safety Connect emergency communications with automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle locator and an emergency assist button.
The optional frontal collision warning system (included with adaptive cruise control) determines if a crash is imminent and automatically takes up the slack in the front seatbelts and primes the braking system for faster response in panic stops.
As we’ve come to expect from models with the big silver “L” on the grille, the 2014 Lexus LX 570 offers a downright posh interior thanks in part to its supple leather upholstery and genuine mahogany trim. Both the front and second-row seats are comfortable and roomy, and the high seating position offers excellent visibility. The design of the 50/50-split third-row seat has a negative impact on cargo capacity, because the two halves fold up against the side walls instead of down into the floor. As a result, the LX 570 offers 41 cubic feet of cargo room behind the 60/40-split second row of seats and 83 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. Most rival large luxury SUVs are more accommodating in terms of cargo space.
Despite the few drawbacks, in a nutshell, you won’t go wrong if you choose the Lexus 570.
Until next week, drive safe, buckle up, and don’t text and drive, it’s the law.

Volvo Drive-E powertrains

By
Birmingham Times
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0

2015 Volvo V60 Sport WagonBy Frank S. Washington

LAS VEGAS – If Volvo had not built up a certain amount of capital in the market and within the automotive press, it would have been written off as dead a few years ago.
Ford purchased the company in 1999 for $6.4 billion. There were a few good years but then as misfortune befell Ford, Volvo’s fortunes in terms of product declined resulting in the company being put up for sale in 2008. It was eventually sold to Geely Automobile of China in 2010.
Now, after four years and an $11 billion influx of capital, Volvo seems ready to reassert itself in this market. It debuted what it called its 60 cluster of automobiles: the Volvo V60, S60 and XC60. Well, actually the XC60 was not here.
The existing models have been refreshed for 2014 and their look will remain unchanged for 2015 model year. The sheet metal has been tweaked a little bit from the A-pillar forward but the cars remain unmistakably Volvos.
Still, previously visible washer nozzles are now under the hood, the radar cover has been redesigned to mesh better into the grille and the grille itself has been redesigned. The Ironmark badge is bigger. There are also more wheel design choices which can differentiate the look of the vehicles.
But the real news is under the hood and it is not the repositioned washer nozzles. Volvo’s much awaited family of Drive-E engines is ready for roll out; initially, two four-cylinder engines will be available in the U.S. market. One of them with a single turbocharger produces 240 horsepower while the second with a supercharger and turbocharger working in tandem produces 302 horsepower.
Still available are Volvo’s five and six cylinder engines but eventually they’ll be phased out in favor of the Drive-E powertrains. Right now the 60 cluster of vehicles with all-wheel-drive will be equipped with Volvo’s five and six cylinder engines and the front-wheel-drive models get the Drive-E powertrains.
Only front-wheel-drive models of the S60 and V60 were here as Volvo unveiled its new Drive-E power plants. The four cylinder engines are lighter by almost 100 lbs., more compact but just as powerful as six and eight cylinder engines. They have lower emissions and better fuel economy, the 240 horsepower version getting 37 mpg on the highway.
Friction reduction including heat management and an electric water pump as well as stop start brake technology aids in the reduction in fuel consumption.
The 302 horsepower four cylinder is the first of its kind in the market, using both a supercharger and a turbocharger. The former is most efficient at injecting massive amounts of air into the combustion chamber while the turbocharger is far more efficient at doing the same thing at higher speeds. The result is a powerfully responsive engine at any speed.
This technology is nothing new; it was first used in WWII airplanes like the P51. At the time quiet and smoothness was not a prerequisite. The main focus was power. Today, Volvo uses more than 50,000 pages of code to make the two blowers work in harmony and do so quietly without a noticeable transition between the two.
By the way, both engines were mated to a new (for Volvo) eight-speed automatic transmission.
The first half of the day was spent driving the S60 with 302 horsepower. The engine was rhythmically smooth, gear shifts were imperceptible and power was more than impressive. On a long straight two-lane highway we passed a slower moving vehicle, quickly getting over, passed it and then back into the lane. A glance at the speedometer showed that the car had reached 111 mph and was still pulling.
The S60 Drive-E could have gone faster; the top speed is electronically limited to 127 mph because the tires are not rated for a higher speed.
We drove a V60 (sport wagon) back in winds that gusted to 40 mph. Although windy conditions could be seen as we drove along, they could not be heard or felt until we got out the car. The V60 held its track too. We never had to adjust steering because of the really strong winds.
Volvo’s Eco+ function shuts off the engine when the car is coming to a stop. In other words, the engine will shut off as any of the Drive-E powered cars slows to 4 mph and comes to a stop. The engine brake will also disengage as the engine speed drops to idle when there is no pressure on the accelerator, putting the vehicle in a coast.
The vehicles had a new instrument cluster. A thin film transistor screen had three settings: Elegance, Eco and Performance each with a different background color and instrumentation. The infotainment system of course had satellite radio and a navigation system. The test car also had adaptive cruise control.
As usual, the seats were outstanding. Not only does the car provide full internet browsing when not moving, it had its own iCloud for cyber storage. Safety systems include the ability to bring the vehicles to a full stop when an obstacle, a pedestrian or a cyclist are detected.
What’s more, Volvo said these two Drive-E power plants are the first offerings of the new engine family. There will be diesels but no decision has been made on whether they’ll be offered in this market. And the engines are already configured to work in hybrid applications. Electrification was Volvo’s phrasing.
Pricing starts at $33,300 for the S60 T5 Drive-E FWD, $38,150 for the T6 Drive-E, the V60 T5 Drive-E FWD starts at $33,300 and it will be $35,750 for the XC60 T5 Drive-E. A yellow caution light is that Volvo intends to sell the same car with two different engine families. That can confuse the consumer. The quicker the Swedish automaker can switch over to its Drive-E engines for all of its vehicles the better.

Frank S. Washington is editor of AboutThatCar.com.

People, Places and Things  

By
Birmingham Times
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0
Gwen DeRu
Gwen DeRu

By 
Gwen DeRu

HISTORY!  BLACK HISTORY! 
 
BLACK HISTORY IN BLACK HISTORY MONTH!!

Continue to ‘read’ all that you can….and ‘what’ you can.   March is Women’s History Month…right around the corner!
 
This is still Black History Month!
)
TODAY…..Councilwoman Sheila PPT Shelia TysonTyson will host Black History Month Discussion on Women in the Media, 7:30 p.m. discussion and 9 p.m. Screening of Scandal.  The Event Concludes with Screening of the Hit TV Show “Scandal.”  The discussion is on the evolution of African-American Women in the media, followed by a screening of the season premiere of the hit political drama “Scandal.”  The event is free and open to the public at Matthew’s Bar and Grill, 2208 Morris Avenue, Birmingham, Ala.   Call (205) 500-6484.

JUDGE HELEN SHORES LEE – SPEAKS AT MOMENTUM LEADERS – ‘Accelerating the Speed of Change’ is the Momentum Conference–Building Women Leaders in Alabama and it will be packed with nine tracks in three breakout sessions led by over 40 outstanding Alabama women professionals.  It will also honor five of Alabama’s top women leaders.  Judge Helen Shores Lee will be celebrated for her Inspiration and for her PPTHelen Shores Leeoutstanding lifelong achievements.  “Helen Shores Lee has lived a life of learning, growing, and giving. She is a magnificent example of a woman who has reinvented herself to meet the many opportunities and challenges presented her. Unselfish, interesting, and genuine, Alabama is the better for having Judge Lee choose to return here to work and raise her family,” stated Barbara Royal, Executive Director, MOMENTUM Women’s Leadership.  The Honorable Helen Shores Lee was appointed Circuit Judge of the Tenth Judicial court of Alabama by Governor Don Siegelman and assumed the bench in January 2003.  Judge Lee became the first African-American woman to serve in the Civil Division of the Circuit court of Jefferson County.  “As a child, I learned from my parents early the importance of giving back to the community.  As an adult, I have found that giving of your time and service can be one of the most rewarding experiences in life.  If I am to promote the welfare of my community and make my city a better place to live, then I must get involved and I must give my time, my service and myself for the benefit of others,” says Judge Lee.  Keynote speakers are GEENA DAVIS, Academy award actress and founder of Geena Davis Institute on Gender in the Media and ANNE-MARIE SLAUGHTER, president of the New American Foundation, Princeton University professor emerita and author of ‘Why Women Still Can’t Have IT All.’ Awards Ceremony is Wednesday 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. and the conference is Thursday, 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the BJCC East Ballroom.  Visit: momentumleadershipconference.com

AFFORDABLE CARE ACT – Hear from four leading experts on the new government health care law – the Affordable Care Act – clearly one of the most complex and yet most important issues facing businesses today. 
On March 5, 7:30 – 9:30 a.m. panelists will address the basics, like:

•       What are the facts I need now?

•       What’s the impact on me and on my employees?

•       What’s the timing?  When are the critical deadlines?

•       What’s the best source for more information?

They’ll also help you get up to speed on the specifics of the new law related to health care, insurance, financial and tax planning, and your legal questions.  Make a reservation today. The Affordable Care Act Seminar at the Harbert Center, 2019 4th Avenue North, Birmingham, Ala. 35203. There is a cost of $15

 This is presented by The Birmingham Business Alliance. Some sponsors are Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, Balch & Bingham LLC, Warren Averett LLC, Brookwood Medical Center and St. Vincent’s Health System.  Registration is only $15 per person, but you must register in advance. You’ll be glad you did.  Call Barry Copeland, Senior Vice President operations and Strategic Initiatives at (205) 241-8105 for more.
 
MORE………. ON AFFORDABLE CARE ACT – Get information March 8 and 22, 10 a.m.– noon and 1 – 3 p.m. at the Birmingham Public Library Downtown.  Open Enrollment ends MARCH 31.  SIGN UP NOW!! Call 937-5452 or 937-5026 for more.
 
COMING….SOON….

MARCH 4 – Red Rock Tuesday with Jeh Jeh Pruitt, 6:30 – 8:30 a.m. at the East Thomas Park, 13th Avenue West, Birmingham Ala. 35204. You are invited to join them March 4th at East Thomas Park.  During the next Red Rock Tuesday segment on Good Day Alabama, visit the first phase of the City of Birmingham’s TIGER grant!  With over 29 miles of sidewalks, bike lanes, and trails scheduled to be complete within the next year, the extension of the Civil Rights Trail into the Smithfield, East Thomas, and Enon Ridge neighborhoods is the first completed section under the grant.  Please join them at East Thomas Park as they celebrate the new trail with the partners who made it a reality.  Directions: To get to East Thomas Park from downtown, travel west along Abraham Woods Boulevard (8th Avenue N.) towards Legion Field.   Turn right on to Center Street and travel over I-20/59.  Turn left on to 12th Avenue West and you will pass Wilkerson Middle School.   Turn Right on to 3rd Street West, and the entrance to East Thomas Park will be immediately on your left, right after the Red Rock Trailhead sign.  See you there!

MARCH 6-9 – SELMA BRIDGE CROSSING JUBILEE – This year’s jubilee activities include a workshop by Rev. William Barber II, leader of North Carolina’s Moral Monday Movement, as well as the Unity Breakfast, many festivities and the pilgrimage across the Edmund Pettus Bridge.
The 49th commemoration kicks off on Thursday March 6th with a traditional
 mass meeting at the Tabernacle Baptist Church in Selma with speaker
Rev. William Barber, head of the North Carolina NAACP State Conference
and leader of North Carolina’s Moral Mondays Movement. 
Other events over the four days include: a music and street festival with
live entertainment and vendors, the annual Unity Breakfast with a featured
guest speaker; the Freedom Flame Awards honoring heroes from the past and
those continuing in the legacy of past heroes, including actor Lou Gossett Jr.
and former Atlanta mayor Shirley Franklin; an Education summit, a Youth
Summit and the annual re-enactment of the Bridge Crossing.

PPT Vanessa Davis Griggs
MARCH 8 – INVEST IN YOURSELF, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the CBF Ministries International, 9094 Rear Parkway East Birmingham, Ala. 35206.  The Women Who Win Ministry of CBF Ministries International invites you to share in a One Day Empowerment Experience. Come and “Invest In Yourself” on May 8, 2014. Enjoy and experience powerful breakout sessions, panel discussions, various vendor sales, breakfast and lunch, the soulful sounds of Gospel Recording Artist Marquita Anthony, an impactful impartation from Best Selling Author Vanessa Davis Griggs and a word from God from our guest speaker, President & CEO of Pinky Promise, Heather Lindsey. You do not want to miss this event. It will be an encounter to remember.   For more call (205) 240-6559.

MARCH 13 – UNWIND WITH VULCAN AND 2014 COLLECTORS – Join the fun after-hours and unwind with Vulcan. Explore the museum, mingle with friends, and enjoy cocktails and refreshments as the sun sets over Birmingham. At 6 p.m. there is a unique program exploring the people, places and events that have shaped our dynamic city.  In celebration of the 110th Anniversary of Vulcan’s creation, Vulcan® Park and Museum is proud to present Birmingham Collectors, our exploration of the art of buying and selling Vulcan and Birmingham historical keepsakes. The program features Graham Boettcher of the Birmingham Museum of Art, Jim Reed of Jim Reed Books, Steve Gilmer of What’s on 2nd and Greg Hodges of Hodges and Associates sharing their adventures in the fine art of collecting. Gather tricks of the trade from these local collectors and see selections of their most interesting finds. Special Guest: 15-year old “picker” Henry Kilpatrick of Magic City Finds, who The New York Times recently profiled. You are invited to bring your own Vulcan, Birmingham or Alabama items to share. 
MARCH 31 – Special Exhibition Baseball Game – Miles College vs. Barons, 6:30 p.m. at Regions Field.  For more information call 205-929-1439

NOW…. a BIRTHDAY SHOUT OUT FOR FEBRUARY! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU JACKIE DAVISON…AND TO ALL CELEBRATING!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ALL YOU BIRTHDAY BALLERS…MANY, MANY MORE HAPPY BIRTHDAYS!!  ENJOY!!
Well, that’s it.  Tell you more ‘next’ time.
 (People, Places and Things by Gwen DeRu is a weekly column. Send comments to my emails: thelewisgroup@birminghamtimes.com or gwenderu@yahoo.com)

Ludacris Ordered to Pay $7000/Month to Baby Mama After Crying Broke

By
Birmingham Times
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By EURweb.com
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Rapper/actor Ludacris has been ordered to pay $7,000-a-month to the mother of his baby daughter after attempting to plead poverty to limit the amount of child support he would have to giver her, reports TMZ.
Luda, real name Christopher Bridges, became a father for a second time on December 9, when former lover Tamika Fuller gave birth to Cai. Fuller filed papers for financial support, asking for a monthly check of $15,000 to care for the newborn, but Ludacris challenged the claim, insisting he couldn’t afford to pay that much. Ludacris impregnated Fuller while still in a relationship with current girlfriend Eudoxie.
Last month, he requested a Georgia judge cap his child support liabilities to a maximum of $1,800 a month, blaming the stalled production of “Fast & Furious 7,” which has been on hold since the death of star Paul Walker in November, for affecting his cash flow.
He also claimed to only have made $55,000 in 2013.
The case returned to court on Wednesday (Feb. 19), when a judge ruled against Ludacris, although he refused to grant the full amount demanded by Fuller.
Instead, he decided to temporarily award Fuller $7,000-a-month, which will be reviewed once all of the financial documents have been assessed.

Rapper Lil’ Kim pregnant with first child

By
Birmingham Times
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Lil KimNEW YORK (AP) — Lil’ Kim is pregnant with her first child.
The rapper’s publicist C.J. Carter confirmed the news Thursday, a day after pictures of Kim’s baby bump began to circulate via social media following her appearance at New York Fashion Week.
The 39-year-old “Lady Marmalade” singer’s assistant Noel Perez says Kim is about five months along and due in May. No other details were available.
Lil’ Kim, whose real name is Kim Jones, debuted her baby bump in a tight dress at The Blonds fashion show.

Guilty Verdict for Man Accused of Killing Tameka Foster’s Son

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Birmingham Times
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Guilty VerdictThe man accused of killing the 11-year-old stepson of Usher’s ex-wife Tameka Foster has been found guilty on five counts.
Jeffrey Hubbard was arrested last March for running over Kile Glover with a jet ski on a Georgia lake in 2012. The boy suffered severe brain injuries when Hubbard’s jet ski collided with Kile, who was on an inner tube that was being towed behind another boat. Kile was vacationing with his father, Ryan Glover, at the time of the accident.
Hubbard was convicted on five counts, including homicide by vessel, reckless operation and unlawful operation of a personal watercraft, reports TMZ.

Shawndrell Igniting a Dreamer Revolution

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Birmingham Times
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ShawndrellShawndrell Hampton, a native of Birmingham, AL, is known by her fans as the “Goddess of Dreams.” She has ignited a Revolution of Dreamers with her new Album “Dream of Shawndrell,” which was released November 2013. She has captivated her fans by proving dreams really do come true. It has been her lifelong dream to write and produce an album that would embrace the hearts and minds of thousands of people across the world. Her fan base of Dreamers has extended to counties across the globe. Shawndrell has always believed, “A Dream is a reality destined to manifest.”

Local Rapper JABO Gives Back to Students at His Alma Mater

By
Birmingham Times
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JABO_1 JABO_2 Hip-hop artist and Birmingham native, JABO visited his high school alma mater, Wenonah High School, yesterday to share positive words of encouragement about staying in school and striving for greatness, with the students in the classrooms of some of his favorite teachers.  JABO a/k/a Javan Ishman is a graduate of Wenonah and has made it a point to go back to Wenonah from time to time to keep the lines of communication strong. He explains, “No matter where I am, I always make time in my schedule to come and visit.  It’s important for kids to see and hear people from their hometown who are just like them and relate.” After graduating from Wenonah, Ishman went on to Alabama State University and graduated with a degree in Business.

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