Zara Greene, Apprenticeship Program Manager for Birmingham Promise. (Provided)
dcwins.com
Birmingham Promise is offering a new form of career assistance to former students of Birmingham City Schools.
The program, Promise Pathways, is available to former Birmingham students ages 16-24 who are not currently enrolled in high school, college or job-training programs but who are interested in getting connected with career opportunities.
“This is for people who want to find a career and not just a job,” said Zara Greene, Apprenticeship Program Manager for Birmingham Promise. “We want to help people get on a pathway that will provide a living wage and not just a paycheck.”
As many as 25 individuals will be able to explore careers and get connected with those opportunities through the program. Interested individuals can apply at https://forms.gle/Gw9QYizz2ogtwc946.
The free services are being offered through a federal grant under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, which was designed to help get young people and others overcome employment barriers and get connected with high-quality jobs.
“This funding allows us to help students who didn’t participate in our core programs,” said Samantha Williams, Executive Director of Birmingham Promise. “These are Birmingham students who graduated without applying for scholarships, or who didn’t have a career in mind, or who may not have finished high school at all. While Pathways doesn’t provide college tuition, it does offer a second chance for these students to explore the abundant pathways that are still available to them.”
Birmingham Promise provides up to four years of tuition assistance for graduates of Birmingham City Schools who attend public colleges and universities in Alabama. It also manages a paid internship program that allows high school seniors to build valuable work experience.
The Birmingham Promise scholarship program is open only to Birmingham City Schools students who are enrolled in college by the fall semester following their graduation. It provides up to four years of tuition for in-state, public institutions, but students must be continuously enrolled in college to continue receiving assistance.
Participants in the Pathways program won’t be eligible for Promise scholarships but they will be connected with other career resources in the community, including college and training programs. They will also receive assistance to explore career options, in some cases using virtual reality technology to help them experience jobs.
“We really want to encourage anyone who is interested to apply and see what’s out there for them,” Greene said. “This is a great opportunity to find a path to a successful and fulfilling future.”
If you already have a checking or savings account in good standing, consider applying for a credit card at your current bank. (Provided)
Sponsored by JPMorgan Chase
Credit cards can be an important tool toward building a healthy financial future. When used responsibly, credit cards can help you establish a solid credit history, making it easier to finance larger purchases – like a home or vehicle – in the future.
Even if you don’t have a strong credit history, you can still qualify for a credit card. Here’s how you can apply for a credit card, what to look for in a credit card and how credit cards can help you achieve your future financial goals.
How do I get started?
If you already have a checking or savings account in good standing, consider applying for a credit card at your current bank. You can apply online or visit a bank branch to work with a representative. Make sure to ask about all their credit card options.
You can also apply for a card online through any financial institution. Wherever you apply, you’ll usually need to provide your Social Security number or an individual taxpayer identification number, source(s) of income and evidence of monthly housing or rent.
What should I look for in a credit card?
You may find it helpful to find a card with no annual fee so you don’t have to pay money out of pocket just for carrying the card. You may want to make sure your credit card issuer reports to all three credit bureaus. This way, you can build credit history across the board and improve your chance of getting future credit cards and loans.
How can I use credit cards to build credit?
There are multiple ways to use credit cards to help establish credit and increase your credit score. Make your payments on time and avoid “maxing out” your card — maintain a low balance by keeping your credit usage below 30% of your card’s limit.
Time is the best way to build credit history, so make sure you keep your credit card account open even if you don’t use the actual card much.
What if I don’t have a credit history?
While this likely won’t block you from getting a credit card completely, it can affect the types of cards and terms you’re approved for.
Card issuers consider factors like your credit score, income and employment. Your credit history heavily influences your credit score, so if you don’t have a credit history, your card may come with higher interest rates. You might also have a lower credit limit because you haven’t yet proven you can pay back money on time.
Eventually, you can build a strong credit history through on-time payments, which may make you eligible for lower interest rates and higher credit limits.
If you don’t qualify for a regular credit card, consider starter credit cards for those new to credit, including:
Student credit cards. These cards are usually built for students who haven’t had a credit card before and are looking for helpful benefits, like no annual fees.
Store credit cards. Retailers can approve applicants with little credit history for a card. Store cards usually carry a higher interest rate, but payments still become part of your credit profile. Remember to try to pay off the balance each month to help avoid raking up interest.
You can also ask to become an authorized user on someone else’s card. If the other person makes their payments on time, that will reflect on your credit report as well.
Get good credit with credit cards
Applying for and using a credit card responsibly can be a step toward building a solid financial future. As you establish your credit history, you can use tools like Chase Credit Journey to check and monitor your credit so you can stay on track towards your financial goals.
For informational/educational purposes only: Views and strategies described may not be appropriate for everyone and are not intended as specific advice/recommendation for any individual. Information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but JPMorgan Chase & Co. or its affiliates and/or subsidiaries do not warrant its completeness or accuracy.
Deposit products provided JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.
(From the archives: This column was originally published Sept. 20, 2018)
As I began researching this topic of stranger danger I realized many adults in my parent’s generation seemingly understood this topic well and how to identify, prevent and avoid certain situations which could possibly place their children in harm’s way. I don’t think my parents read a particular book or article about this topic but, rather used their own home training and what we in the South call “mother wit.” My parents, like most of my generation, were reared in a different time in the South where understanding and knowing your environment was extremely important for one’s safety. I believe my generation and those behind me unfortunately have been somewhat guilty of another old Southern saying “throwing the baby out with the bath water.” Hopefully, these two articles will help spark these critical conversations about knowledge and empowerment again about strangers.
One article introduced some best practices on how to help teach and empower your child about strangers in their environment. These practices explored the possible best approach based upon a child’s age and personality. We will conclude this topic this week by sharing additional detailed teachable tips on this topic.
As a parent or guardian there needs to be clear guidelines about public restrooms. A fairly recent national news story about a top public official reiterates the need for these types of guidelines. Usually by age 6 a child can independently go to a public restroom without the aid of a parent but, be vigilant. Note the age may differ by household. Your child should know you are standing right outside until they come out and if they need help just call for you. Teach them to say “no” if a stranger offers to help them and say “No, thank you, I’ll do it myself” or “My mom/dad can help me.”
Teach them to judge strangers by their actions rather than their appearance. Tell them how mean and scary looking people may not necessarily be wishing them harm. Discuss with them how some bad strangers may look like a regular, nice person and may act kind just to manipulate them to go with them. Emphasize it’s a person’s action which determines if they are bad such as a) pulling up beside them in a car and asking for directions, b) offering candy, toys, electronics in a secluded place such as their home or car or c) asking for help to find a lost pet such as a dog. Role playing these types of situations along with others is great for smaller children.
Teach your child to follow their instincts! How they feel about situations and strangers is important. Continue to teach them to be leery of strangers who ask for help, invite them into their home or car, ask them if they can you keep a secret or just show signs of suspicious behavior. This helps to empower your child to make good decisions. Also teach your child to immediately tell you about any adult who makes them feel uncomfortable and you need to listen. Children will not tell if they believe you won’t listen or believe them. This is why open lines of communication between parents and children about all topics without judgement is important. Your child’s safety should be your primary and secondary concern.
The National Crime Prevention Council’s advises to teach children to practice NO, GO, YELL, TELL. This phrase means to tell your child to yell very loudly “NO!” if approached by a bad stranger, RUN away immediately and fast, YELL for help and TELL a trusted adult what happened. These words can be taught to younger children also.
Where the entertainment industry makes child abductions much more prevalent than statistics show, but, you don’t want to be the parent whose child is included in the statistics regardless of the percentage, so help teach them how to Keep an Eye on Safety!
The Second Annual Firehouse of Hope Gala will be held on September 19.
By Gwen DeRu | The Birmingham Times
TODAY…
**READ THE BIRMINGHAM TIMES. Catch up on the news!!!
**TAUREN WELLS & DANNY GOKEY- THE TAKEBACK TOUR, 7 p.m. at BJCC.
**HALF DREAM, JUCO & PEOPLE YEARS at The Nick Rocks.
**BLUES JAM EVERY 3rd THURSDAY, 7- 10 p.m. at True Story Brewing.
**THE LIE WITHIN CALLIE – Album Release Party at Saturn.
**EVERY THURSDAY LATE NIGHT with GREAT JANE at The Nick Rocks.
**ALABAMA BLAZIN BINGO, 6 p.m. at Overtime Grill and Bar.
**FILM at Sidewalk Film.
**KARAOKE WITH JOSEPH, 7 p.m. at True Story Brewing.
FRIDAY…
**BMR presents MICHAEL MARCAGI at Saturn.
**STEVIE TOMBSTONE with SCOTT IVEY at The Nick Rocks.
**Late Night with DJ JACK BAMA at the Nick. at the Nick Rocks.
**BADFLOWER – NO PLACE LIKE HOME TOUR 2024, 7 p.m. at Iron City
SATURDAY…
**KARAOKE SATURDAYS, 3 p.m. at 3605 Gray Avenue, Adamsville at with the ALL-EN ONE BBQ with Chef Randy ”Dee” Allen and The Lovely LaToria at the 7 Angels Coffee & Smoothie Café.
**PAW PATROL LOVE! “HEROES UNITE” at BJCC.
**HIDDEN IMPACT Poetry, Performance & Exhibition with EDDIE MELTON, NEKO LINDA GRIMM TRIBUTE, 7 p.m. at the East Village Arts of Birmingham.
**BARE HANDS, INC. MEMORIAL ALTER: at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute.
**END OF ALL & SICK IN THE SUMMER, 9 p.m. at The Nick.
**LOCAL MAN w/SPC PXMOOR. 8 – 11:55 p.m. at Elysian Gardens..
**TOMMY PRINE at Saturn.
**LATE NIGHT SATURDAY NIGHT with R.1.Y.T. at The Nick Rocks.
SUNDAY…
**PASTOR’S APPRECIATION DAY for Rev. Eric Walker, Pastor, 10 a.m. at St. Paul AME Church, 4217 School Street in Adamsville, AL 35225.
**EASE BACK 4th SUNDAYS, 5 p.m. at True Story Brewing
**BITTER CALM with MOOD ROOM & MIGHTY MENACE, 8 p.m. at Saturn.
**BILMURI, 8 p.m. at Iron City.
**AN EVENING WITH KYLE KIMBRELL at The Nick Rocks.
**DJ SUNDROP Late Night Sundays at the Nick.
**EVERY 4TH SUNDAY TAYLOR HOLLINGSWORTH at The Nick Rocks.
MONDAY…
**BIRMINGHAM BANDSTAND at the Nick.
TUESDAY…
**BENJAMIN TOD & LOST DOG STREET BAND with MATT HECKLER at Saturn.
**BIRMINGHAM SONGWRITER’S ROUND with Host SUSANNAH SEALS at The Nick Rocks.
**JOSE CARR EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT at True Story Brewing.
WEDNESDAY…
**POP PLANET: END OF BRAT SUMMER at Saturn.
**REAL FUNNY COMEDY WEDNESDAYS at True Story Brewing. Sign up at 7:30 p.m.
**TRICIA ANN at The Nick Rocks.
**JT – THE CITY CINDERELLA TOUR at Iron City.
**FIGHT CLUB OPEN DECK with Host LEMON BELOVED! Every Wednesday!!! at The Nick Rocks.
NEXT THURSDAY…
**READ THE BIRMINGHAM TIMES. Catch up on the news!!!
**OVERTIME: THE ROAD TO GOLD TOUR IN BIRMINGHAM at The Nick Rocks.
**BLUES JAM EVERY 3rd THURSDAY, 7- 10 p.m. at True Story Brewing.
**BOY NAMES BANJO at Saturn.
NEXT FRIDAY…
**2024 Arts Block Party, 5 p.m. at the Alys Stephens Center.
**AUGUSTANA- SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL TOUR at Saturn.
**CAN’T FEEL MY FACE: 2010s DANCE PARTY at Saturn.
**LATE NIGHT WITH DJ JACK BAMA at The Nick.
AROUND TOWN….
**SEPTEMBER 19 – SECOND ANNUAL FIREHOUSE OF HOPE GALA, will honor DON LUPO, Operation Manager for the City of Birmingham, for his longtime support of the Firehouse Shelter at the Grand Bohemian Hotel. The gala will feature a live auction with international trips and dining by Jack Granger, live Emmy-winning entertainment, cocktail hour, dining and opportunities about what it takes to resolve homelessness. Birmingham’s Firehouse Shelter has been a lifeline for those experiencing homelessness, providing food, shelter, clothing and a myriad of support services. The Medical Respite Care Program is the only one of its kind in Alabama and supports 10 guests with acute medical needs. To sponsor or support the shelter and the respite care program, contact Kari Todd, Director of Mission Advancement at ktodd@firehouseshelter or 205-252-9671.
FOR ART LOVERS….
**SEPTEMBER 28 – RHYTHMS OF COLOR Art Festival & Student Art Competition, 5- 9 p.m. at the Harbert Center.
FOR THE LOVE OF FOOD…
**TODAY…UAB TASTE AND SEE BLAZER BITES Mini Catering & Food Truck Event, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at UAB Campus Green & Campus Rec Center.
**SEPTEMBER 16 – FOOD TRUCK INFORMATIONAL SESSION, 2 p.m. at Sloss Furnaces Visitors Center, 20-32nd Street North. Learn the new mandatory requirements coming this fall. The new permitting process for 2025, Updates on Magic City Classic and business licensing, and more. Register at: register@birminghamal.gov. For more information, visit www.birminghamal.gov .
FOR NATURE LOVERS AND YOUTH…
FRESHWATER LAND TRUST will have a few things for you to get involved with, but first … Let’s congratulate the leadership!
**PATHFINDERS – CONGRATULATIONS!!! Leadership Birmingham highlights the pathfinders that made the Fairfield Trail and Valley Creek Rails-To-Trails projects possible. These trails will help to develop the western segments of the Red Rock Action Plan. Individuals that were instrumental and recently on the cover of the Leadership Birmingham’s summer newsletter are KELVIN DATCHER, Senior Advisor, Special Projects, City of Birmingham: RUSHA SMITH, Freshwater Land Trust’s Executive Director, BOBBIE KNIGHT, President of Miles College and DR. DAVID HICKS, Health Office for the Jefferson County Department of Health. They are connecting communities through trails. Congratulations!!
**SEPTEMBER 14 Mulga Loop Road 10 a.m. 12 p.m. you can join neighbors for the litter Clean-Up at Mulga Loop and surrounding roadways. It is focused on removing litter from the roadways to prevent litter being washed by rain or carried by wind into Village Creek and Bayview Lake. Volunteers are asked to drive to a designated area and work in groups. Certificates for 8 hours of community service will be available after event. Materials are provided: t-shirts, safety vests, gloves, trash bags, trash grabbers and bottled water. Register at Minor Community Center, 3105 Church Avenue, 35224. For more info, contact Jefferson County’s Stormwater Program at 205-325-8741.
**SEPTEMBER 20 – ANNUAL ENDANGERED SPECIES TOUR, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. will go to six unique sites throughout Jefferson County to observe the endangered fish: watercress, rush and vermilion darters. Presenters include Bernie Kuhajda of the Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute, Jeffrey Drummond from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Charlie Scribner from Black Warrior plus more. The Alabama Forestry Foundation will provide lunch. Register FREE. Transportation and lunch is provided with registration.
**ADOPT-A-TRAIL Program is for families, neighborhoods, business groups of all kinds to help keep the RED ROCK TRAIL SYSTEM clean, safe and enjoyable. Possible trails include: Shades Creek Greenway, high Ore Line West and Birmingham Eastside Ecogardens. Contact Savannah at savannah.thompson@freshwaterlandtrust.org
**MAN PROJECT – BORN 2 LEAD Mentoring Session: Conflict & Stress Management Workshop, September 14, Saturday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at 1133 Tuscaloosa Avenue, 35211. Teaching topics including: Self-confidence, Anger management, social skills, self awareness, identity behavior and study tips for upcoming academic school year. Free and open to the Public to boys ages 8-18. Register at eventbrite and search by name.
**SAFE HAVEN INITIATIVE AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM is Monday through Wednesday for grades K-5 beginning September 9, 3:30- 7 p.m. that will provide reading initiative, chess club, homework help, creative writing and tutoring. It will be in Central Park, Ensley, Memorial, Hawkins, Fountain Heights, or ML King. Call 205-254-2391 for location and more information. This is a Birmingham Parks and Recreation After School Program.
Well, that’s it. Tell you more ‘next’ time. People, Places and Things by Gwen DeRu is a weekly column. Send your contact info with your events, your things of interest and more to:gwenderu@yahoo.com and thelewisgroup@birminghamtimes.com
Meghan Venables-Thomas, left, Birmingham's director of community development and Kirkpatrick Tyler of Urban Alchemy, inside City Hall discuss The Homeless Engagement Assistance Response Team (HEART) program. (Sym Posey, The Birmingham Times)
By Sym Posey | The Birmingham Times
The City of Birmingham on Tuesday announced a $1.7 million contract with Urban Alchemy, a California-based organization, that will provide a public safety and call program responding to non-emergency situations involving the city’s homeless population.
Urban Alchemy will respond to non-emergency 911 and 311 calls relating to the homeless.
Most of those working with the company have overcome long-term incarceration, homelessness, mental illness and/or drug addiction. That helps when it comes to de-escalating situations that can lead to confrontations with law enforcement, said Kirkpatrick Tyler, Urban Alchemy’s Chief of Community and Government Relations.
“When an unhoused neighbor is experiencing a crisis, they often panic when an armed, uniformed law enforcement officer shows up, which can lead to unnecessary escalation that can have tragic outcomes,” said Tyler on Tuesday. “Our team members are trained to empathize and calm everyone involved down. They then offer to connect the person in crisis to resources they may need, such as shelter and medical care.”
Founded in 2018, the company’s Homeless Engagement Assistance Response Team (HEART) has seen success in de-escalating situations in and around San Francisco, Los Angeles, Portland, and Austin where it has addressed homelessness, crime, and challenging street conditions, according to Tyler.
Meghan Venable-Thomas, Director of Community Development for the City of Birmingham, said the company will be about to divert calls from 911 and 311 to give the unhoused the “direct, coordinated care that they need to move … to move into potential housing opportunities that meet their needs.”
The program is tentatively scheduled to launch at the beginning of 2025 and employ a team of nearly 20 people. Teams will respond to calls from 7 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
“I think it’s an important cog in the wheel … because often times our unsheltered neighbors don’t have a resource that sees them or that can connect with them that has empathy and understanding,” Tyler said.
Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin said the program can be “transformative.”
“We are excited about serving alongside Urban Alchemy to support our unhoused communities,” he said. “These residents deserve specialized services and care, and we aim to support them using our best resources and our heart. HEART Birmingham will be transformative for our unhoused community and for Birmingham at large.”
The Alabama Minority Vendor Conference for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals is set to return on Thursday at the Hyatt Regency Birmingham – The Wynfrey Hotel. (Provided)
The Alabama Minority Vendor Conference for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals is set to return on Thursday, September 5, and Friday, September 6, in Birmingham, AL at the Hyatt Regency Birmingham – The Wynfrey Hotel.
This two-day conference will offer attendees opportunities to expand their networks, gain insights into procurement opportunities, and connect with key decision-makers across a variety of industries.
This year’s conference focuses on building a roadmap to scale and promises to be an essential gathering for corporate and business leaders looking to forge valuable connections, gain actionable business insights, and propel their businesses.
Curated for minority-owned businesses and other small business enterprises, the conference offers a supportive environment for learning, networking, and collaborating with peers and industry professionals.
“The Alabama Minority Vendor Conference is more than just an event; it’s a vital platform for fostering partnerships, enhancing business capabilities, and championing diversity in supply chains,” says Kandis Daramola, Acting Director. “We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where minority businesses can connect with successful business owners, subject matter experts, and public and private sector leaders. This conference offers not just inspiration, but practical instruction to help elevate their businesses to new heights.”
During the first day of the conference, the Minority Vendor Showcase will feature exhibits, public procurement agencies, and private companies, facilitating valuable interactions and networking opportunities.
“The Minority Vendor Program exists to support inclusivity and ensure fair access to opportunities, working to create pathways for direct engagement with procurement opportunities and business development resources,” says Tammy Knight Fleming, of the Alabama Minority Vendor Program, a leading conference sponsor. “We believe that diversity in business is not just a goal but remains a necessity for driving innovation and economic growth in Alabama.”
This year’s conference will feature an impressive lineup of speakers, including Lance Gross, Award-Winning Actor and Producer; Stormi Steele, CEO of Alabama-Based Canvas Beauty; Austin Goble, REACH Women’s Business Center; Dr. Travis Davis, CEO MalMar; Cynthia Crutchfield, Innovate Alabama; Megyn Rodriguez, SBA; Latesha Isbell, Savvy Diva Enterprises; Peter Gibbs, President, Foundation Surety & Insurance Solutions; Holly Owens, Co-Founder, Hauling Forward Logistics; and others.
Roy Williams holds a copy of the book "America's Heroes" and a photo of his late brother, Army Maj. Dwayne Williams, who was killed in the terrorist attack on The Pentagon Sept. 11, 2001. (Solomon Crenshaw Jr. / Alabama News Center)
Every Sept. 11 since 2001, Roy Williams has been reminded of the way his brother, Army Maj. Dwayne Williams, died.
This year, the former Birmingham News reporter wants to remember the life of his brother and the legacy he left by organizing a free concert.
“We’re purposely calling it ‘Take the Day Back: A 9/11 Tribute to Army Major Dwayne Williams,’” said Williams, now the public relations director of the Birmingham Public Library. “After 22 years of regretting and not looking forward to the day, for the first time I am excited because we’re going to be doing a program to honor the way Dwayne lived instead of how he died.”
The event will be at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 11, in the Trussville Entertainment District at 119 Beach St. in Trussville, adjacent to Ferus Artisan Ales. The concert will feature Aretha Franklin impersonator Kimberly Harmon as the opening act. The main act is Elvis Presley impersonator Rob Langford. Each singer will be backed by the award-winning Beale Street Band.
Williams recalled fielding a call from Langford, a friend who recounted having had Dwayne Williams as his military commander when Langford went into the Army. The entertainer broached the idea of doing a concert to honor his former commander and asked if doing it on Sept. 11 was OK.
‘Take The Day Back’
“I said, ‘You know what? Yes, let’s do it on September 11. Let’s take the day back,’” Roy Williams said. “We are purposely having it on September 11 so that we’ll be honoring how he lived with Elvis and Aretha impersonators instead of how he died. I’m excited about it. For the first time, I’m looking forward to it.”
For nearly 23 years, the 11th day of September took Roy Williams back to the fateful day when terrorists hijacked four commercial airplanes, committed to leaving death and destruction in their wake. Those airplane hijackings resulted in the collapse of the World Trade Center in New York City, the crashing of a passenger airliner near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, and damage to the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, killing all 64 people on the plane and 125 people in the Pentagon, including Dwayne Williams.
Roy Williams remembers being at home and thinking a terrible accident had happened when the first plane struck a World Trade Center tower. His assessment would change minutes later.
“When the second plane hit, I knew we were under attack,” he said. “I said to myself, ‘Oh boy, Dwayne is about to have to go to war again.’”
When Williams got to work at The Birmingham News, his mother, Pearl Williams, called and told him about the Pentagon. He was sure she was mistaken.
“I told her, ‘No, you’re wrong. That was the World Trade Center towers. Don’t worry. Dwayne is fine,’” he said. “As soon as I got off the phone with my mom, I looked up and saw the images of the Pentagon on fire.
“I freaked out and tried to call Dwayne,” Roy Williams said. “No answer on his cell. No answer on his office. All day long, no answers. I didn’t find out until that evening that Dwayne was among the missing. Then, life as we know it changed.”
Roy Williams said he always idolized his brother, Dwayne, who was Roy’s best man at his wedding. After telling his big brother that he wanted to be like him, Roy recalled Dwayne telling him to believe in himself and to “Be you, little brother.”
Roy has that message tattooed on one arm. On the other arm, he has a tattoo of praying hands. “Prayer is what got me through losing Dwayne,” he said.
Langford has performed Elvis tunes across the country. Harmon has been an Aretha Franklin impersonator since 2015, performing across the Southeast; she grew up listening to Aretha as a child of the 1970s in Mississippi. Harmon is the lead vocalist of the Andrew Thielen Big Band of South Carolina, which plays across the Southeast.
Free To The Public
The concert on Sept. 11 will be free to the public because of the contributions of sponsors. Donations will be accepted, with proceeds going to help fund a bronze bust of Maj. Williams. Organizers hope the bust can be unveiled on Memorial Day 2025 in the Alabama Fallen Warrior Monument just off U.S. 11 in Trussville. Maj. Williams is among 227 killed in the War on Terror honored in the park.
Additionally, proceeds will go toward the Maj. Dwayne Williams Memorial ROTC Scholarship at Jacksonville State University, the alma mater of Dwayne’s mother, Pearl Williams, and his twin brothers Roy and Troy.
“This event is about honoring our heroes and servicemembers … to remember their stories and sacrifice to this great country,” said Carroll, who has served in the Air National Guard for 15 years.
For more information, call Roy Williams at 205-572-1359 or email roywillwrite@gmail.com.
“You Had Me at Hello’’ highlights married couples and the love that binds them. If you would like to be considered for a future “Hello’’ column, or know someone, please send nominations to Barnett Wright bwright@birminghamtimes.com. Include the couple’s name, contact number(s) and what makes their love story unique.
RICCO AND DENISE MCADORY
Live: Irondale
Married: April 6, 2002
Met: July 1998 at Denise’s home church – First Baptist Church Booker Heights – for a Women’s Day program. That Sunday evening, as Denise sang in the choir and Ricco played the organ, they had no idea their paths would cross. Ricco jokingly said Denise “couldn’t keep her eyes off of him” which she said isn’t exactly true.
They spoke after the program, but there was nothing after that initial meeting, or at least not immediately.
Ricco’s mother and father were also on program at that event where they first met.
First date: About a year after their initial meeting, in 1999, they reconnected again at Denise’s home church. Ricco came back out to play the organ again after visiting from his home church, Faith Missionary Baptist Church in Bessemer that, his dad pastored and although they did exchange numbers and begin conversing occasionally, there were still no sparks the second time around. But by the fall they decided to go on a dinner date. They ate at Olive Garden on Crestwood Boulevard in Irondale (the restaurant is no longer there). Things remained cool between the two while they continued to get to know one another.
The turn: Ricco said he always knew she was the one. Denise just “fit” what he needed in a wife, he said.
Denise, 27, said she’d prayed about a husband and was at the point where she was ready to settle down. Then she received what she believed was a word from the Lord about her future husband – from a complete stranger.
“I worked for a local bank (at the time) and I was actually on the phone with some lady from Texas. Out of the blue she told me God told me to tell you that he is sending you your husband,” recalled Denise. She can’t remember the exact year, but worked for the bank from 1998 – 2002.
Those words came to pass as Denise understood Ricco was her husband after she asked Ricco a very specific question. His answer proved that he was the husband for her, she said. According to Denise, “God told me to ask him, “Who sent you?” To which Ricco said he responded, “The Lord sent me.” That confirmed he was her husband, she said.
Denise also remembered the woman on the phone asked, “Do you have children yet? I was like ‘no,’ and she told me, ‘your first child is going to be a son.’”
Ricco and Denise McAdory met in 1998 at First Baptist Church Booker Heights and married in 2002. (Provided Photos)
The proposal: Ricco went to serve with the United States Navy in 2000 as an electrician’s mate and once the two began dating, it was a whirlwind of events to follow with an engagement and his pressing military duty in the Naval Services.
“I actually asked her on the telephone to marry me …. I was away on military duty aboard the U.S.S Carl Vinson (a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier) stationed in Bremerton, Washington,” said Ricco.
And then they got engaged.
As she thought on the proposal, Denise said “I don’t even think I saw it coming.”
Reality set in after the excitement of the upcoming nuptials. “We dated each other (after the engagement) a month or two before he had to go back on the ship (in Bremerton, Washington),” said Denise.
“We got to know each other, but then, we really didn’t get to know each other as we were going on what God told us,” she said.
Ricco came back home to Birmingham summer 2001, adding, “my family threw me a party and I also had an engagement ring for Denise at that party.” Turns out, it was their engagement celebration, too. And not long after, Ricco went back to military duty aboard the U.S.S Carl Vinson. In fact, Ricco was on the water on Sept. 11, 2001, when the World Trade Center and the Pentagon were bombed.
“The first planes to bomb Afghanistan came off of my ship,” he said.
“So most of our engagement was me being away (on the ship) and technology wasn’t like it was today. The phones on the ship were few and far in between and we had to wait until we pulled into the port (in Bremerton, Washington),” said Ricco. Still, their wedding plans moved forward.
The wedding: Ricco returned home to Birmingham in February 2002 and he and Denise married that April. It was a traditional wedding at the church that Ricco’s father pastored, Faith Missionary Baptist Church in Bessemer. Their colors were lavender and white and they had two groomsmen and two bridesmaids.
Two days after their wedding they embarked on a drive across the country to Bremerton, Washington from Birmingham, being that Ricco was still active military.
He spent another two years traveling back and forth. His wife became pregnant during this time and his first son was born in September 2003. “Most of the pregnancy I was gone – at least eight of nine months,” said Ricco. “And they were telling us we’d be out until after he was born.”
But Ricco said his faith grew in that moment as he believed God to allow him to see his firstborn son. “I accepted the call to ministry April 2003,” said Ricco. “I ministered my first message on that ship.”
And he also made it home to Birmingham in time to see his wife deliver, Ricco Jr. in September 2003.
Words of wisdom: “There’s something about having the right life partner to complement your assignment,” said Ricco.
“I encourage those interested in marriage to become the best version of you that God made. It’s really a covenant that you’re making with this person, and wherever you go, you’re taking that person with you,” he said.
Denise said she believes the success of their 22-year marriage rested in her initially recognizing God’s plan and said simply, “God picked Ricco out for me.”
“Being married to her next to being saved is the best decision I ever made,” said Ricco. And he added for those planning to marry, “spend time with God and allow God to reveal the hearts of your mates more so than their looks.”
“My heart is for this girl, and this girl is for me,” added Ricco, “We keep God in the center and our foundation is strong.”
Happily ever after: Both Ricco and Denise grew up in Birmingham. Denise, 54, graduated in 1988 from West Jefferson High School.
Ricco, 46, is a 1997 Shades Valley High School graduate, and he said he was part of the first class to graduate in that school in his hometown of Irondale. He served four years active duty in the Navy and reserve duty until 2008. He currently works in ministry as an Identity Leadership teacher, author and coach.
Denise works as an administrative coordinator for an insurance company.
The McAdory’s have three children, Ricco Jr. 20; David 18; and Trinity Grace 16.
Both are members of Faith Chapel in the Wylam community.
“You Had Me at Hello’’ highlights married couples and the love that binds them. If you would like to be considered for a future “Hello’’ column, or know someone, please send nominations to Barnett Wright bwright@birminghamtimes.com. Include the couple’s name, contact number(s) and what makes their love story unique.
As election season ramps up, Megan Hays, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, says it is common to feel overwhelmed by the constant influx of political news, debates and campaign rhetoric. (Adobe Stock)
As election season ramps up, Megan Hays, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, says it is common to feel overwhelmed by the constant influx of political news, debates and campaign rhetoric. Research shows that politics can negatively impact one’s physical and mental health and can lead to stress, anxiety and unhappiness. According to the 2024 American Psychiatric Association’s annual mental health poll, 73 percent of respondents are especially anxious about the upcoming presidential election.
Hays says, by adopting strategic wellness practices this election season, one can maintain their balance and focus amid the political storm. She has five evidence-based strategies people can use to help stay grounded this election season.
Acknowledge and accept emotions
“During uncertain times like an election, feeling difficult emotions like anxiety, sadness or anger is normal,” said Hays, an associate professor in the UAB Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. “Start by labeling your emotions to normalize and accept them, rather than fighting them. As psychologist Carl Jung said, ‘What you resist, persists,’ and research indeed suggests that resisting negative feelings can intensify them. Instead of trying to get rid of anxiety or anger about the election, use mindfulness to acknowledge and accept your emotions.”
Hays says, when hit with moments of strong emotions surrounding the political uncertainty, it is important to resist the urge to obsessively read news updates on the latest polls, but instead notice and describe one’s feelings to oneself without judgment. One way to dial down a stress response to political news is by acknowledging it, letting it pass and gently redirecting one’s attention to what they were previously doing.
Engage in mindful media consumption
Hays suggests reducing media consumption to improve mental health and reduce political fixation.
“During election years, social media can become saturated with political content, and news feeds that show only perspectives we agree with — known as filter bubbles — can intensify political divisions,” Hays said.
In one randomized experiment, researchers found that deactivating a social media account for the four weeks prior to the 2018 midterm election increased subjective well-being and reduced political polarization. Hays recommends limiting media consumption to specific times of the day and establishing a “news-free zone” in the evenings to avoid disrupting sleep and to help manage stress. Additionally, opting for text-based news over video can help minimize exposure to disturbing imagery.
Communicate healthy boundaries in relationships
Election season can test relationships — whether with family, friends or colleagues — due to heightened political tensions and differing viewpoints. Hays recommends the following steps to help communicate healthy boundaries in relationships.
Set clear limits: Individuals should determine how much political discussion they are comfortable with having with everyone they interact with and communicate these boundaries politely and firmly. An example of setting these boundaries may look like saying “I’d prefer not to talk about politics right now; can we talk about something else?”
Remove oneself if needed: Do not hesitate to take a break from a political discussion or step away entirely if the other person is not respecting stated boundaries.
Designate politics-free zones: Sometimes the best course of action is to avoid discussing politics altogether. Individuals should express their needs without blaming or criticizing the other person. For example, saying something like “political conversations are stressful for me, so I’d like to avoid them for now” is a good way to redirect the conversation.
Do not take the bait: If someone tries to provoke a political discussion, choose not to engage.
Focus on common interests: Shift the conversation from politics to shared interests or values to maintain connection and find common ground.
Remember that anger often stems from fear: Many people who seem outraged during this election season are actually driven by fear. Understanding this can help one remain calm during challenging conversations.
Pivot to action and agency
“Instead of dwelling on worst-case scenarios, focus on what you can control by channeling your energy into productive actions that align with your values,” Hays said. “Civic engagement can positively impact health and well-being.”
Hays recommends channeling political stress into productive action by participating in community volunteer groups. Engaging in civic activities benefits the community and enhances one’s overall sense of purpose and even contribute to a longer lifespan.
Respect different perspectives
Practice respecting different opinions, even when it is difficult.
“It is highly unlikely that you will change the minds or votes of your friends and family who support a different candidate, just as they are unlikely to change your vote, so stop trying to convince them,” Hays said. “Recognize that people have varied experiences and viewpoints that shape their opinions. Respecting this diversity can help maintain positive relationships despite disagreements.”
If the conversation becomes heated and personal, Hays suggests calmly redirecting the discussion, and emphasizing that the relationship matters more than the election outcome. Agreeing to disagree can preserve relationships while acknowledging that not all differences need to be resolved.
Navigating election season with its whirlwind of political news and debates can be daunting, but implementing these wellness strategies can help manage stress and facilitate healthier interactions with others. By prioritizing mental and emotional health, one can engage with people more constructively and preserve meaningful relationships.
“By staying grounded and focusing on what you can control, you can face this challenging time with resilience and clarity,” Hays said.
“We’re purposely calling it ‘Take the Day Back: A 9/11 Tribute to Army Major Dwayne Williams,’” said Williams, now the public relations director of the 
