Ludacris Pens Emotional Tribute Song to His Late Dad, Wayne Bridges

August 8, 2013

Eurweb.com

Ludacris has paid tribute to his late father in an emotional new song which details his battle with alcoholism.
The “Area Codes” hitmaker’s dad, Wayne Bridges, struggled with booze for much of his son’s life, and his health took a turn for the worse after he was diagnosed with diabetes in 2006.
Wayne Bridges continued to drink right up until he was hospitalized in February, 2007, and Ludacris admits he seriously considered skipping the Grammy Awards that year, when he was favorite to win the Best Rap Album category, to remain by his father’s bedside.
He ended up attending the prestigious Los Angeles ceremony and winning the Grammy for his album Release Therapy, and he dedicated the prize to his sick dad; during a “VH1 Behind the Music” special, which aired this past Sunday.
“It was 100 per cent special for me, all the emotion that was going on during that time with my father,” said Luda. “I felt like I won it for him, and as soon as I went backstage, I just kind of broke down.”
The elder Bridges passed away two weeks later, at the age of 52, and Ludacris has used recent recording sessions for his next album as a form of therapy to help him come to terms with the loss.
Discussing the song, “Oceans and Skies,” which is about his strained relationship with his alcoholic dad, he explained:
“It was extremely therapeutic putting it together and I honestly think I shed a tear or two actually doing it. They say music is all about emotion, if you don’t feel something then you shouldn’t be listening to it. There was a lot of emotion put into this song and I think people are going to feel that.”

(BPRW) KESHIA KNIGHT PULLIAM AND ROMEO MILLER DISCOVER THEIR TRUE FEELINGS IN THE UP ORIGINAL MOVIE THE LOVE LETTER

Birmingham Times

August 8, 2013

– PREMIERES SATURDAY, AUGUST 10 AND SUNDAY, AUGUST 11 AT 7, 9 AND 11 P.M. EDT • Ensemble Cast Includes Jackée Harry, Marques Houston, Erica Hubbard, Tequilla Whitfield, and Terrill Patterson –

(BLACK PR WIRE) – ATLANTA – August 2, 2013 – UP, America’s favorite channel for uplifting family entertainment, presents the UP Original Movie The Love Letter (#TheLoveLetter), a romantic drama about the path from friendship to true love, starring Emmy® nominee Keshia Knight Pulliam (“House of Payne,” “The Cosby Show”), Romeo Miller (Madea’s Witness Protection, Jumping the Broom, Honey), Emmy Award winner and Golden Globe® nominee Jackée Harry (“The First Family,” “Sister, Sister,” “227”), Marques Houston (“Cuts,” “One on One”), Erica Hubbard (“Lincoln Heights,” “Let’s Stay Together”), Tequilla Whitfield (“A Cross to Bear,” Stomp the Yard 2: Homecoming), and newcomer Terrill Patterson. Gary Wheeler (UP’s The Perfect Summer, Somebody’s Child) directs from a script by Chazitear Martin. The Love Letter will premiere exclusively on UP on Saturday, Aug. 10 and Sunday, Aug. 11 at 7, 9 and 11 p.m. EDT.  The Love Letter explores just how tricky things can get when your best friend is the opposite sex. Parker (Keshia Knight Pulliam), an established entertainment columnist, and her sports-fanatic best friend, Aaron (Romeo Miller), have been inseparable since childhood. They know everything about each other – from her dating mishaps to the fact that he doesn’t love his current girlfriend, which makes his sudden engagement all the more surprising and planning his wedding very difficult. Parker’s meddling mother, Josephine (Jackée Harry), is determined to get her mind off of Aaron’s wedding by introducing her to “nice guys,” including millionaire Wesley (Marques Houston). Still, Parker finds it impossible to focus on much besides Aaron and his relationship. She decides to explore her feelings in her magazine column, penning a letter from an “anonymous” reader looking for advice. Surprised by the overwhelming reader feedback and her feelings, Parker realizes something about herself and what she really wants out of life.  “The Love Letter is a charming story about the search for happiness and putting friendship to the test for love – something everyone can identify with,” says Leslie Glenn Chesloff, executive vice president of programming, UP. “This film explores the adage that you can find love where you least expect it and that it might be right in front of you all along.”  Keshia Knight Pulliam began her career when she was nine months old in a national print ad for Johnson & Johnson Baby Products. By age four, she had appeared in several national commercials, in the feature film The Last Dragon and was a regular on “Sesame Street.” Best known as Rudy Huxtable, the youngest daughter of Clair and Cliff Huxtable on “The Cosby Show” (1984–92), she won several NAACP Image Awards, Young Artist Awards, a People’s Choice Award, a Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Award and a host of other honors for that role. She also starred in a host of TV movies, including the period holiday drama The Little Match Girl (1987), the Mark Twain update A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court (1989), and Debbie Allen’s musical version of Pollyanna, Polly (1989), as well as the sequel Polly: Comin’ Home! (1990). After “The Cosby Show,” Pulliam took several years away from acting to concentrate on school, graduating in 2001 with honors from Spelman College with a B.A. in Sociology and a concentration in film. Since then, she has appeared with Queen Latifah in Beauty Shop (2005), with Boris Kodjoe and Idris Elba in The Gospel (2005), and Tyler Perry and Derek Luke in Madea Goes to Jail (2009). Pulliam currently stars in Perry’s “House of Payne,” for which she has won three NAACP Image Awards. She also appeared beside basketball great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and comedian Louie Anderson in the reality television series “Splash” on ABC, and on “Guys with Kids” on NBC. Pulliam heads her own Atlanta-based production company, Kizzy Productions, and is the founder of Kamp Kizzy, a non-profit organization for young girls. She also is the co-founder and member of The A-List Experience, which serves as a fundraising vehicle for celebrities.  Romeo Miller found success in the entertainment industry early as a recording artist. At age 10, he became the youngest entertainer to top the Billboard charts. A multi-platinum recording artist, he has sold more than 10 million records worldwide and won both a Grammy® and an American Music Award. By the time he was a teenager, Miller starred in his own television show on Nickelodeon, “Romeo!” (2003–06), and began quickly began building his resume by appearing on TV and in feature films. He appeared in the film Honey (2003) with Jessica Alba, as well as on the TV series “The Defenders” and “The Cape” before starring in Jumping the Broom (2011) alongside Angela Bassett and Paula Patton. Fans also caught up with Miller in Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Witness Protection (2012). He is the CEO of the multimillion-dollar record company No Limit Forever and serves as the national spokesperson for Urban Born, a non-profit dedicated to changing the lives of at-risk youth. In that role, Miller travels the country visiting inner-city schools and community centers to teach young people the importance of staying in school, staying off drugs and staying out of gangs. Miller majored in business and film at the University of Southern California, where he and his teammates on the basketball team won the school’s first PAC 10 Championship.  Jackée Harry landed her first role – the King in her school’s production of “The King and I” – at the age of 14. She made her professional acting debut in Richard Wesley’s “Goin’ Through Changes” in 1973, and shortly thereafter made her Broadway debut as Melinda Bernard in “A Broadway Musical.” Jackée made her television debut opposite Morgan Freeman in the daytime soap opera “Another World” in 1983, and a year later landed her iconic role of Sandra Clark on the NBC sitcom “227,” for which she became a Golden Globe nominee and the first African-American to win an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. She starred opposite Oprah Winfrey in the critically acclaimed adaptation of Gloria Naylor’s novel The Women of Brewster Place (1989), and in 1991, Jackée joined an all-star cast led by Della Reese in the TV series “The Royal Family.” From 1994–99 she starred as the adoptive mother of Tia and Tamara Mowry’s characters on the ABC/WB sitcom “Sister, Sister,” winning the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for two consecutive years (1999 and 2000). Jackée also made guest appearances on “Amen,” “Designing Women,” “Dave’s World,” “Hollywood Squares,” “7th Heaven” and “That’s So Raven” before joining the cast of “Everybody Hates Chris” in 2006. She returned to the stage in 1994 as Billie Holiday in “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill,” and in 2003 played the Madam in “The Boys From Syracuse” on Broadway. More recently, Jackée performed before sold-out audiences across the nation in the stage play “The Cleanup Woman.” Currently starring on the CW’s “The First Family,” she has a recurring role on BET’s “Let’s Stay Together,” and will have a recurring role on “Girl Meets World,” Disney Channel’s new spin-off of the popular show “Boy Meets World.” Jackée is proud to be a spokesperson for the Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund, and a Global Ambassador to the Women’s International Center. The National Congress of Black Women presented her with the “Woman of Substance” Award in 2010.  Marques Houston was first introduced to audiences at age 11, when Immature, the band he formed with childhood friends Jerome “Romeo” Jones and Don “Half Pint” Santos, released its first single, “On Our Worst Behavior,” which was produced by Chris Stokes. As the band became more successful, Houston began pursuing an acting career, lending his voice to the character Kahill in the animated feature film Bébé’s Kids (1992) and appearing with his band mates on the TV series “A Different World” (1993). He went on to star as Roger Evans in “Sister, Sister” (1994–99) and landed a role in the feature film Good Burger (1997). Later, Houston faced tragedy at home when his mother was diagnosed with cancer. Inspired by her, he wrote “Please Don’t Go,” which was featured on the Immature album “We Got It.” In 1998, the band changed its name to IMx and released two more albums before disbanding in 2002. As a solo artist, Houston appeared on the Scream tours with B2K, Nick Cannon and Bow Wow as his single “Clubbin’” hit the UK Top 20. At the same time, Houston appeared in You Got Served (2004) and Fat Albert (2004) and on the TV series “One on One” (2004–06) and its spinoff, “Cuts,” (2005–06). He appeared alongside R&B artist Omarion in the film Somebody Help Me (2007), while releasing his second album, “Naked,” and his third album, “Veteran,” which reached Number 5 on the Billboard Hot 200. Recently, Marques starred in Battlefield America (2012) with co-stars Mekia Cox and Lynn Whitfield, a film directed by Chris Stokes.  Erica Hubbard got her start in Chicago, landing her first TV show after graduating from Columbia College, where she studied broadcast journalism and theater. Her work on the show, “Up ‘N Running” (1997–2001), which was geared toward teens and tweens and aired on a UPN affiliate in Chicago, garnered her a Regional Emmy and a Service to America Award from the National Association of Broadcasters. After doing voice-over work and starring in numerous national commercials including McDonald’s, MCI, Reebok, Sears and Noxzema, she moved to Los Angeles and promptly landed roles in the feature films Save the Last Dance (2001), A Cinderella Story (2004), The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005) and Akeelah and the Bee (2006). Her television credits include guest-starring roles on “CSI: Miami” (2005), “Everybody Hates Chris” (2005) and “Cold Case” (2010), and she was a series regular and the voice of Abbey on the animated series “The Replacements” (2006–07). Hubbard won an NAACP Theater award for Best Supporting Actress for her work in the play “What Would Jesus Do?” in 2008, and starred for four successful seasons in the critically acclaimed ABC Family drama “Lincoln Heights,” which won a 2010 NAACP Image Award. Currently, she stars as Kita in BET’s hit series “Let’s Stay Together.” An active philanthropist, Hubbard volunteers for organizations including the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and is the Executive Director of The Erica Hubbard Foundation, speaking in schools, community centers and youth organizations helping at-risk, inner city kids that deal with low self-esteem and poverty.  Tequilla Whitfield made her television debut in GMC’s A Cross to Bear, opposite Kim Fields. Her mentor and acting coach Terri J. Vaughn also produced the film. Focused and devoted to her craft, Tequilla has invested in her acting career by attending many acting workshops and theater classes. She studies with Emmy Award Winner Gregory Alan Williams, Emmy-nominated director Mary Lou Belli. In addition for the past 3 years, she has studied with Image Award-winning actress, Terri J. Vaughn.

SPEAKING OF SOAPS

Birmingham Times

August 8, 2013

BY MEREDITH COOPER
NOW IN ITS 36TH YEAR

ALL MY CHILDREN

Evelyn was concerned when she saw Celia getting chummy with Colby and advised her to keep her distance. Pete lamented to Jane that he wished Celia would attend the auction with him. Billy Clyde injected himself into the conversation when he advised Pete not to give up on Celia. Miranda was feeling like the fifth wheel when it came to AJ and Heather, but Zach convinced her to buy a new dress and go to the gala, anyway. Lea tried to justify busting Jesse to Zach. David and Jesse got into an argument about what’s best for Angie and Cassandra. Things got so heated that David told Jesse that Cassandra had an abortion. At the hospital, Angie consoled Cassandra who was wracked with guilt over the abortion. Jesse arrived and Angie confided to him that Cassandra was afraid that Jesse would turn against her for this. Jesse let Angie know he resigned from the department in order to get the charges against him dropped. Miranda was grateful that Zach was so supportive and she was excited to see Bianca as soon as possible.

THIS WEEK: David is the object of JR’s wrath. Celia thinks that things are beginning to unravel.

THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL
Hope watched with delight and flattery when Wyatt and Liam verbally and physically sparred over her. Liam became irate when Hope and Wyatt confirmed that they have kissed on several occasions, and she has even seen him naked. Katie surprised Bill when she told him that she hasn’t completely ruled out a possible reconciliation with him. Bill and Brooke were unknowingly under the watchful eye of Katie. With Katie looking on, Bill and Brooke came close to giving her exactly what she had been anticipating. After hearing the seemingly genuine profession of love for his wife, Donna urged Katie to reconcile with Bill. When Hope reminded Liam that she has more options than him, he asked her why she still stays with him. Bill overruled Liam’s decision to kick Wyatt out of the Spencer house with a single text. Despite his acknowledgement of having feelings for her, Hope assured Wyatt that she will marry Liam. Hope insisted that as long as they are in her life, Liam and Wyatt must get along. Not convinced that Bill and Brooke no longer have feelings for each other, Katie set them up for another test…with an added ingredient. Being rejected once again by Katie, Bill was encouraged by Brooke to not give up on his marriage. Katie was pleasantly surprised when Bill unknowingly passed one of the two tests that she set up for him. After observing Bill and Brooke, Katie began to consider taking Bill back. Knowing how Caroline had been manipulative in the past, Maya grew concerned about how close Rick has been working with her. From their basement offices, Thomas and Thorne conspired to oust Rick as president of Forrester Creations. Thomas and Thorne went to Eric with a proposition about taking over Forrester Creations because Rick was slacking in his presidential duties. Maya, Carter and Rafael hosted an exclusive screening of the premiere of Room8.

THIS WEEK: Bill is blindsided when Katie tells him that she is ready to forgive him and that she will not be filing for divorce. Brooke and Donna take off to Monte Carlo to publicize Brooke’s Bedroom.

DAYS OF OUR LIVES
Kristen found herself trapped as Eric and Daniel insisted on speaking with the woman who “accidentally” destroyed the evidence from Eric’s hotel room. Nicole caught up with Rafe, who questioned her feelings for Eric. She later had a warning for Daniel. Jennifer realized she couldn’t risk losing Daniel and made a surprising move to save her relationship. Theresa gained a new ally. Marge confronted Sami in her jail cell, shaking her up. Later, Justin gave EJ and Sami some good news regarding her case. Eric was shocked when Kristen informed him of Nicole’s secret affair with Brady. Brady advised Nicole to come clean with Eric about her feelings. Kristen freaked out when Father Matt made a special request. Jennifer and Daniel reunited – but not in the way Daniel thought. Theresa shamelessly flirted with Nick, mistakenly believing he’s a wealthy stock broker. JJ fumed at the sight. EJ and Sami celebrated after learning the judge had granted a court order to exhume Bernardi’s body. But their joy was short-lived when Marge dropped a major bombshell. Nicole allowed Eric to believe an unflattering lie in order to cover up her feelings for him. Nicole and Kristen clashed when Nicole learned Kristen will be working with Eric at the church. Marlena went ballistic when she learned Brady and Kristen are back together. After a tense encounter with Justin, Adrienne feared her marriage may be over. Rafe confided in Kate that he fears he might never walk again. Kate privately worked with Kayla to help Rafe. As Cameron and Abigail grew closer, Chad met with a specialist to find out if he truly does have a brain tumor. Marlena and Kristen had a heated argument – which led to Marlena physically attacking her rival! Sami gave Sonny advice about Adrienne while Will urged EJ to save his mom. EJ came up with a new plan to clear Sami. Chad finally learned whether or not he has a brain tumor.

THIS WEEK: Eric receives some shocking info. Chad gets long-awaited news on his health.

GENERAL HOSPITAL
Luke continued to search for a cure and discovered that all trails lead to a Mr. Jacks in Australia. After hypnosis with Kevin, Alexis recounted the night Sam was conceived, and she told Sam the name of her father. Scott bargained for Lucy to get more money for Deception in exchange for promising to vote with Tracy regarding ELQ. Ava warned Silas to stay away from Kiki. Alexis crossed paths with Derek – and felt a twinge of déjà-vu. Derek agreed to run a front page story to try and find a donor for Danny. However, Connie decided to trump the donor story and moved forward with her breaking news front page story. When Sonny offered to help her build a new magazine, Connie regretted her decision to go behind his back with the front page story. A.J. and Liz considered spending the night together. When Morgan told Kiki he loves her, he couldn’t help but notice she didn’t return the sentiment. After some prodding, Kiki finally told Morgan that she loves him. As the sun rose, Port Charles awoke to the front page news story. Connie told Sonny she went against his wishes and ran the story. Sonny blew up at Connie, who defended herself, opening a rift between the two. AJ awakened with Liz, but their bliss was fleeting as the front page story changed everything along with Tracy informing A.J. that his leadership of ELQ is at an end because of Connie. A.J. was livid. Ava tried to withhold the DNA test results from Silas – but she was not successful. AJ went after Connie for publishing the story. A.J. backed Connie into a wall screaming at her – when in walked Sonny. Ava was stunned to discover the front page story. Michael realized how the front page story will change everything – and affect everyone in his life. Sam was upset that Derek went back on his word and didn’t put the bone marrow drive on the front page.

THIS WEEK: Silas confronts Ava for the truth. The truth about Obrecht is revealed.

ONE LIFE TO LIVE
When a drunken Clint caused a ruckus at Shelter and punches the doorman there, the police were called in and the doorman insisted that Bo arrest Clint. This happened despite Matthew and Cutter’s efforts to defuse the situation. Nikki got under Cutter’s skin when she teased him about having a crush on Natalie. Nikki was up to more mischief when she gave Shelter’s doorman some cocaine for his swollen lip. Destiny and Jeffrey kissed in secret. Jack got an earful from Dorian about her breakup with David. Jack was sympathetic and tried to raise her spirits by taking her out for a jog. Viki was called to the loft by Bo and Nora who are trying to get Clint to sleep it off. Viki refused to take Clint back, and Clint made things worse when he shoved Nora, which prompted Bo to take Clint into police custody. Arturo was impressed by Dani’s apartment until she told him that Todd pays for it. Dani had to admit that this was Todd’s way to try to get her to forgive him. Dani wanted to kiss Arturo, but he told her he prepared another time and place. Todd broke the news to Blair that he was being forced to leave town by people who have Victor and are threatening the lives of Todd’s friends and family.

THIS WEEK: Natalie lashes out at Cutter when she finds out Clint cooled his heels in the slammer. Michelle is stunned when she finds out Matthew is a daddy and Destiny is the child’s mother.

THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS
Sharon snuck into Phyllis’ room and begged for her to wake up while hoping that she wouldn’t remember her secret. Nick told Avery that he thought Summer and Daniel were right to want to send Phyllis out of town to recover. Jack bid a heartfelt goodbye to Phyllis and told her that he’ll be waiting for her no matter how long it takes. Melanie went to see Paul and told him that she wants to press charges against Adam for rape. When Paul questioned why Melanie has taken so long to come forward, she told him that she wouldn’t be able to live with herself if Adam harms someone else. Later, Paul placed Adam under arrest for rape as Melanie watched from a booth. Michael got a call that Fen had been arrested for stealing drugs. Fen denied stealing drugs from the hospital cart, but the security camera footage proved otherwise. Chelsea told Victoria to stop blackmailing her with the truth about the baby. Noah visited Sharon and questioned if she is off her medication. Sharon tried to assure Noah that she was fine. Adam admitted to having sex with Melanie but denied raping her. Adam asked Paul to have Melanie come in and accuse him to his face. Leslie arrived and told Adam not to talk as she’ll be acting as his lawyer. She had him consent to Paul’s DNA sample. Dylan asked their doctor how early the baby will be if Chelsea goes into labor. Chelsea panicked and considered telling Dylan everything. While Dylan was out finding the doctor, Chloe told Chelsea that she shouldn’t tell Dylan anything. Later, Dylan told Chelsea that she wants to get married before the baby is born. Victor summoned Noah and Summer to the ranch house. Summer worried Victor was trying to stake his claim because he didn’t want an Abbott in the family, and that’s what she’s now since everyone knows that Jack’s her father. Victor reminded her that she’s still a Newman. Noah and Lily figured out that Tyler spent the night with Abby. Hilary commented that it’s a shame that Lily and Tyler don’t work together anymore, because they did an amazing job on the new Jabot campaign.

THIS WEEK: When Lily is snarky toward Abby for being late to a meeting, Abby asks if it’s because she is late or because she’s with Tyler. Devon asks Abby and Lily to help convince Tyler to return to Jabot.

Alpha Phi Alpha Charity Picnic

Birmingham Times

August 8, 2013

Brothers of the Mu Psi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity are inviting the public to our charity picnic at Homewood Central Park at 1632 Oxmoor Road on Saturday, Aug 10th from 3-8p.m. Enjoy food, fun and fellowship!!! The purpose of the charity picnic is to raise money and awareness for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Donations will be accepted in any amount at the picnic to support Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. national programs include Go-to-High-School, Go-to-College; A Voteless People is a Hopeless People voter registration initiatives; Project Alpha which educates teen males on teen pregnancy prevention and Brothers’ Keeper program, a service program to help improve the quality of life for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity brothers, their spouses, and widows who are retired, are elders, have disabilities and are ailing.
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (ΑΦΑ), founded in 1906, is the first Black, Inter-Collegiate Greek-Lettered fraternity founded at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. Its founders are known as the “Seven Jewels.” Notable members have included Nobel Prize winner Martin Luther King, Jr., Olympian Jesse Owens, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, United Nations Ambassador Andrew Young, Singer Lionel Richie, Miles College President, Dr. George French and former Birmingham Mayor, Richard Arrington, Jr. Other prominent local members include local officials, Commissioner George Bowman, Councilor Steven Hoyt, Councilor Jay Roberson and Council President, Roderick Royal.

Justin Woolen of Holy Family Cristo Rey Catholic High School Among 20 Area Seniors Named 2014 Super Students by Birmingham Magazine

Birmingham Times

August 8, 2013

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Justin Woolen, a senior at Holy Family Cristo Rey Catholic High School, has been named a Class of 2014 Super Student by Birmingham Magazine. He is featured in the August issue.
The article, on area newsstands now, has individual profiles of 20 Birmingham area Class of 2014 seniors. Since 2010, Birmingham Magazine has reached out to area high schools, asking high school guidance counselors and other professionals to nominate an outstanding boy and girl from the rising senior class.
“We ask schools what makes these students so outstanding – not only their GPAs, which are typically very high, but also who they are and what they do outside of their academic lives,” said Carla Jean Whitley, managing editor of Birmingham Magazine. “Our editorial staff then reviews the entries and selects the 20 students.”  As a junior, Woolen made academic honors, served on the school Student Government Association and was a point guard on the boy’s basketball team. He also worked one day a week at Collateral Holdings Ltd, filing and shredding documents as part of the school’s Corporate Internship Program.
Justin said he is thankful for the experience, adding working around accountants led him to eliminate that as a career choice. He credits Holy Family Cristo Rey for introducing him into broadcasting, as he made a highlight video for the school. Justin plans to major in communications at Auburn University.
In his profile, Justin says transferring to Holy Family Cristo Rey for his junior year last fall allowed his academics to soar. He had a perfect 4.0 GPA last year.
“I came over (to Holy Family) with an ambition to get stuff accomplished, because I realized that my first two years of high school, I didn’t take them as seriously as I should have.”
In addition to being in the August issue, Birmingham Magazine is airing a video profile of each Super Student during the month of August. Justin’s video will go live on Aug. 22. The videos are at www.Bhammag.com.

Located at 2001 19th St. in Ensley, Holy Family Cristo Rey offers a high-quality college preparatory education that is affordable and in a safe environment for students. Students work one day a week at 80-plus businesses across metro Birmingham, gaining valuable workplace experience that pays off in adulthood. The 30 graduates of 2013 received a combined $2.34 million in scholarships, a school record. For more information on Holy Family, visit www.hfcristorey.org or call (205) 787-9937.

A Man of Integrity

Birmingham Times

August 8, 2013

Dr. Fred Primm Bessemer City School’s District Superintendent — Dr. Fred Primm
Bessemer City School’s District Superintendent

By Charlene Holmes
Dr. Fred Primm has been Superintendent of the Bessemer City Schools District for two years. He said in that two year span, Board Members, the community and he have fostered and nurtured a good relationship and are “working together.”
Having served as Superintendent in another district for six years before coming to Bessemer, Dr. Primm said, in hindsight, “I don’t think I would have done anything differently. My previous experience helped. I just had to acclimate myself to this system.”
“I feel great about the system. It has potential. It was a good system when I arrived. My goal is to leave the system better than when I arrived.”
As Chief Executive Officer and Chief Instructional Officer, Dr. Primm “oversees and is held responsible for the day to day operations of the system in every aspect,” he explained.
He mentioned three things that he would like for the public to know about the Bessemer System. “We care about our students. We strive for excellence especially in the area of curriculum and instruction. We hold ourselves accountable,” for what we do and “we embrace accountability from parents and the public.”
He continued, “I am a strategic and consistent person” and that helps a lot.
Dr. Primm said the system has created a Strategic Plan with four goals that serve as a framework for improving the District that will be shared through a series of public meetings.
He said a concern right now is the “decrease in enrollment” and we are “focusing on increasing enrollment”, he added.
When asked what he thought could make the system better, he said, “Providing students and teachers with the resources that they need to be successful.”
He mentioned the transition of 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students from James A. Davis Middle School to the old unoccupied Jess Lanier High School building. Before the decision was made, “there were many considerations,” he said.
He continued, “After a survey was generated by the Parent Advisory Council, the students and staff decided that Bessemer City Middle School would be the new name and the Purple Tigers would be the mascot. Furthermore, this move would promote camaraderie throughout the school system.
Negotiations have begun with City Officials about selling the old Davis Middle School building.
Dr. Primm suggested the public should become more educated about all of the components of the Alabama Accountability Act. “Parents should do their homework about this new law.”
Where does Dr. Primm see himself in five years? “Hopefully, in five years we will have addressed all of the critical needs of the students and enhanced the curriculum and have one of the best school systems in the state and the country.”

Celebrating Our Heritage

Birmingham Times

August 8, 2013

and More Descendants of Dock and Estella Edwards!

(Photo credit: Winthrop Nall)
The Edwards Family Reunion July, 12-14, 2013
Dock Edwards and Estella Wilson Edwards 1882- 1949
Origin: Church Hill, Lowndes County, Alabama held at the Redmond Hotel. Picnic at Patton Park.

Mortgage Payment Assistance Program

Birmingham Times

August 8, 2013

Hardest Hit Alabama is a statewide homeowner assistance program that offers programs including mortgage payment assistance for unemployed homeowners, as well as loan modification and short sale options for borrowers facing financial hardships. Go to www.HardestHitAlabama.com for more details.

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Leadership Principles for All Organizations

Birmingham Times

August 8, 2013

Most people have never heard of him. But everyone can learn from his leadership. He survived childhood in Nazi-occupied Hungary and Communist domination of that nation after the war and came to this country in 1956.
Andy Grove, who joined Intel Corporation the day of its incorporation in 1968, received numerous awards during his long tenure. The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, one of the most renowned graduate schools of business, voted Grove the most influential business leader of the past 25 years.
Grove, currently a senior advisor to Intel, served as CEO and chairman prior to his retirement. During his watch, the company’s stock rose 31.6 percent per year, revenue grew from $1.9 billion to $25.1 billion, the workforce doubled, and Intel became a global competitor as a manufacturer of microprocessors.
How did Grove achieve these feats? He employed five basic principles that are central to the success of all organizations.
First, he set the example. He expected much of others, but no less than of himself. Notably, he declined customary corporate perks, working out of a tiny cubicle instead of a larger corner office.
Grove developed a vision for the company and pursued it with vigor. But at the same time, he realized the industry was in constant turmoil, requiring the vision to be tempered by marketplace realities.
He also created a work environment that allowed for individualism but also imposed discipline. Grove challenged colleagues to be innovative, but he demanded that they measure all aspects of their performance.
Grove’s legacy perhaps will be best captured in terms of timely response to change. In fact, he wrote books and articles on the necessity for quick response in industries such as microchips that seem to be in a constant state of flux.
Finally, Grove demonstrated over and over the ability to rebound from setbacks. As Japanese producers threatened to destroy Intel’s ability to produce memory chips, Grove responded with a monumental change of direction for the company, leading Intel into the new field of microprocessors.
While readers may not be aware of Andy Grove’s contributions, they can benefit from his experiences. The five principles he used in transforming Intel apply to anyone in a leadership position.

Wayne Curtis, Ph.D., a former superintendent of Alabama banks and business school dean, is retired from the board of directors of First United Security Bank. He may be contacted at wccurtis39@gmail.com.

Classified

Birmingham Times

August 8, 2013

**EMPLOYMENT

*LOCAL SALES MANAGER
Formal education equivalent of a Bachelor’s degree in Sales/Marketing or related field preferred. Four years experience in local broadcast sales, preferably in a leadership role. Proven track record in generating revenue and managing people. Must be able to motivate staff and be creative in sales strategies. Send resume to: Jean Ziegert, Director of HR, Alabama’s ABC 33/40, 800 Concourse Parkway #200, Birmingham, AL 35244 or fax to 205-982-3928. E-mail:*jeanz@abc3340.com. No Phone calls please. EOE
BT08/08/13

**DRIVERS
Professional Flatbed Drivers. Run
Midwest to South *(AL,TN,MS)
Home Weekends (possibly during
week too) Join our Family 42 cpm
to start full benefits. Schilli
(Formerly Wabash Valley)
877-261-2101 or Schilli.com
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*Drivers: Top Paying Bessemer Dedicated Account! $500 Sign-On Bonus, Great Miles, Weekly Home-Time & More! Werner Enterprises: *1-888-567-4856
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*Drivers: Great Pay/Benefits!
Paid Vacation! Rider Program.
DryBulk, Longhaul.CDL-A w/Haz;
6mos exp, 21yoa. 855-777-WSTL
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**SPECIALTY

*SANDRA DESIGNER’S CLOSET
*DRESS FOR LESS!
*Call (205) 788-7862
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**AUTOS FOR SALE!

2007 Toyota Camry
4 door automatic
Power locks and windows
Habla Espanol
Call Jay 205-863-7556

2011 Toyota Camry
4 door automatic
am/fm stereo CD player
power windows and locks
Call Sammy 205-514-6454

2010 Toyota Corolla
4 door automatic
economy fuel saver
power windows and locks
call Ivory 205-821-0491

2004 Toyota 4 Runner
2 wheel drive
Automatic S.U.V.
Call Sammy 205-514-6454

2007 Chrysler 300
Red Leather Automatic
Call Ivory 205-821-0491
08/08/13

*REAL ESTATE

*Calling all singles ….

I have the best 2 BR with DEN home in Ensley Highlands for you. Beautiful yard, separate garage, C/A, porch and patio. Call me to take a look see; *Cynthia Marzette (205) 910-7149 or Barnes and Associates (205)328-*3330
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*Veterans looking for a home? I will work with you in any area of town to find you the best on the market. Call *Cynthia Marzette (205) 910-7149 or *ask for me at Barnes and Associates, (205) 328-3330.
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**OFFICE BUILDING FOR SALE

Ideal for medical office or hospital equipment sales directly across from Baptist Princeton Hospital. Off street parking, private shower, beautiful reception room. *Cynthia Marzette (205) 910-7149 or *ask for me at Barnes and Associates, (205) 328-3330.
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**Apartments for Rent

*Hueytown. Edenberry Apartments. Total electric, stove,
refrigerator, dishwasher, central a/c. 1 bedroom with den $535
water furnished. *2 bedroom 1 bath $535, tenant pay water on
2 bedrooms. 425 Oakwood Avenue, Birmingham 35023. Call
205-879-2177 ext. 213.
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**REPAIRS
*abc waterproofing we repair wet basements,
*crawl spaces, install french drains
*24/7 service call van at 230-8197 any time.
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*LEGALS

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

*Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority Elevator Maintenance Contract

This will be for the use of the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority, Birmingham, Alabama.

*The Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North, *Birmingham, Alabama will receive bids, up to the hour of 2:00 P.M. on Tuesday, September *10, 2013, and will thereafter be publicly opened and read aloud at the BJCC Executive Board Room 4th Floor, North Exhibition Hall in Birmingham, AL. Bids must be submitted on bid forms furnished by the Authority. Bids shall be clearly identified on the exterior of the package with bidder’s name, address, STATE CONTRACTOR LICENSE NUMBER, the name of the project being bid, and time and place of bid opening. Sealed bids shall be properly identified.

Bids may be sent to *BJCC Purchasing Department, Attn: Purchasing Coordinator, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N, Birmingham, AL 35203. Any bid not received by 8:00 A.M. September 10, 2013, must be hand delivered and presented at the bid opening. Sealed bids shall be submitted in duplicate and shall be properly identified. *All bids received after 2:00 *P.M. on the bid date will be returned unopened.

A Cashier’s Check drawn on an Alabama bank or bid bond, executed by a Surety company duly authorized and qualified to make such bonds in Alabama, payable to the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority in the amount of 5% of the amount of bids, but in no event more than $10,000, must accompany the bidder’s bids. Performance and Labor and Material Payment Bonds in the amount of 100% of the contract price will be required when the contract is presented by the contractor to the Authority.

*A mandatory pre-bid meeting will be conducted on Tuesday, August 27, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. *Bidders shall meet at the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority Dock #6, 2100 *Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N, Birmingham, Alabama.

Questions should be directed to Jerry Nelms, BJCC Facility Engineer at (205) 458-8409 or email jerry.nelms@bjcc.org.
Sharon Proctor Purchasing Coordinator
Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority
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The Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority will receive sealed bids for:

*BJCC Tenant Improvements 10th Floor Forum Building

This will be for the use of the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority, Birmingham, Alabama. *General Contractors will be required to make a good faith effort to include MBE *and DBE companies in the execution of this project.

*The Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North, *Birmingham, Alabama will receive bids, up to the hour of 2:00 P.M. on Thursday, September *5, 2013, and will thereafter be publicly opened and read aloud at the BJCC Executive Board Room 4th Floor, North Exhibition Hall in Birmingham, AL. Bids must be submitted on bid forms furnished by the Authority or its representative. Bids shall be clearly identified on the exterior of the package with bidder’s name, address, *STATE CONTRACTOR LICENSE NUMBER, the name of the project being bid, and time and place of bid opening. Sealed bids shall be properly identified.

A copy of this bid package is available at the above address or on our website:* www.bjcc.org (under Jobs & Vendor Opportunities – Open Bids section). There is no charge for downloading bid documents. All project documents and drawings will also be available at the pre-bid meeting and in the BCIA plan room.

Bids may be sent to* BJCC Purchasing Department, Attn: Purchasing Coordinator, 2100 *Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N, Birmingham, AL 35203. Any bid not received by 10:00 A.M. September 5, 2013, must be hand delivered and presented at the bid opening. Sealed bids shall be submitted in triplicate and shall be properly identified. All bids received after 2:00 P.M. on the bid date will be returned unopened.

Construction contracts shall be awarded only to qualified Contractors, licensed by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors, as required by Title 34, Chapter 8, and Code of Alabama. Contracts in excess of $50,000 shall be awarded only to Contractors licensed as required by the 1978 Code of Alabama, Title 34, and Chapter 8 as amended. Bidders must be “responsible” in accordance with criteria in the bid and as stipulated by Title 30-2-3-(e) of the code of Alabama.

*A mandatory pre-bid meeting will be conducted on Tuesday, August 20, 2013 at 1:30 p.m. *Bidders shall meet at the Forum Building, 950 22nd St. N, Second floor lobby, Birmingham, *Alabama. The pre-bid meeting will be conducted in the tenant space.

*Questions should be directed to Jerry Nelms, BJCC Facility Engineer at (205) 458-8409, jerry.nelms@bjcc.org, *or Nathan Varner at Williams-Blackstock Architects at (205) 252-9811, nathan@wba-architects.com.
Sharon Proctor
Purchasing Coordinator
Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Authority
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*NOTICE TO PROPOSERS
*FINANCIAL AUDIT ACCOUNTING SERVICES

Notice is hereby given that the BJCTA is soliciting proposals from experienced and qualified proposers to provide Financial Audit Accounting Services to BJCTA for the fiscal years 2013, 2014 and 2015. The proposal document is available for download on the BJCTA’s website, www.bjcta.org.
The* Request for Proposal (“RFP”), *#13-12, outlines a description of the services sought and the required documents for submission. Questions or requests for clarifications or approved equals concerning the RFP must be received by the BJCTA, using Attachment B of the RFP, no later than *4:00 P.M. *Central on August 9, 2013. Responses will be made available at www.bjcta.org no later than *4:00 P.M. Central on August 16, 2013. All communications with BJCTA personnel about the substance of this RFP should be made through Attachment B of the RFP.
Proposals should be addressed as follows
Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority
1735 Morris Avenue
Birmingham, Alabama 35203

The lower left corner of the address label should state the RFP number and title and should state, “PROPOSAL DOCUMENTS ENCLOSED”. The cover page of the proposal should include the RFP number and title.
One original and three copies of a proposal should be sent to the BJCTA. The failure to do so will result in a proposal being ruled non-responsive. Non-responsive proposals will not be awarded the Contract.
All requested information must be submitted in the required format.
Proposals may be hand delivered or sent by U.S. Mail or some other shipping service. It is suggested that proposers use a shipping method that will ensure delivery before the deadline. The deadline for submissions is *4:00 P.M. *Central on August 26, 2013. Any proposal received after the deadline may not be considered, even if the proposal was timely mailed.
The BJCTA reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive any irregularities or informalities in any proposal or in the proposal procedure. Conditional proposals and any proposal taking exception to any provision in this RFP will be considered non-responsive and may be subject to rejection.
Proposals may be withdrawn by written request to the BJCTA prior to the time fixed for the proposal opening. No proposer may withdraw a proposal for a period of 120 days after the scheduled time for the proposal opening.
This RFP does not commit the BJCTA to award a Contract, nor to pay any cost incurred in preparation of a proposal. The BJCTA reserves the right to cancel the RFP or to issue a subsequent RFP.
The award of a Contract to a proposer may be contingent upon a financial assistance contract between the BJCTA and the United States Department of Transportation (“Financial Assistance Contract”). All proposers agree to comply with any and all provisions and regulations relative to the Financial Assistance Contract. Proposers are required to certify that they have not been suspended or debarred from participation in federally-funded contracts. Proposers must also disclose lobbying activities. Full compliance with all applicable Occupational Safety and Health Standards, DBE requirements, Equal Employment Opportunity, and Americans with Disabilities Act laws and regulations is required. The BJCTA reserves the right to reject any or all proposals received or to negotiate separately with any source whatsoever in any manner necessary to serve the best interests of the BJCTA.
If available, more detailed information about this RFP will be found at www.bjcta.org, or through the Procurement Officer,Darryl Grayson at 205-521-0144 / dgrayson@bjcta.org.
BT08/08/13

*ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
*UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM
*BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA

The Board of Trustees of the University of Alabama for the University of Alabama at Birmingham requests proposals from General Contractors for furnishing all labor and materials required for HSIS Web Design Area 5th Avenue Parking Deck for the UAB Health System.

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

*Proposals will be received until 2:00 p.m. CT on August 20, 2013 and will thereafter be publicly opened and read aloud in the large conference room of the 2020 Building, 2020 8th *Avenue South, Birmingham, Alabama 35294-6552. Bids must be submitted on Proposal Forms furnished. Proposals shall be clearly identified on the exterior of the package with the bidder’s name, address, State license number, the name of the project being bid, time and place of the bid opening. Sealed proposals shall be submitted in triplicate and shall be properly identified.

Proposals may be hand delivered or received by mail on the date of the bid opening at the Office of Amy Cope, 2020 Building, 2020 8th Avenue South, Birmingham, Alabama 35294-6552, *until *12:00 noon. After 12:00 noon of the date of the bid opening, proposals must be hand delivered and presented at the bid opening. Sealed proposals shall be submitted in triplicate and shall be properly identified. All proposals received after 2:00 p.m on *August 20, 2013 will be returned unopened.

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

A Cashiers Check drawn on an Alabama Bank or bid bond, executed by a Surety company duly authorized and qualified to make such bonds in Alabama, payable to The Board of Trustees of the University of Alabama in the amount of 5% of the amount of bids, but in no event more than $10,000.00, must accompany the bidder’s proposals. Performance and Labor and Material Payment Bonds in the amount of 100% of the contract price will be required when the Contract is presented by the Contractor to the Owner.

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.

*A Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held on August 12, 2013 at 4:00 p.m. at the site of the work, 1915 4th Avenue South, Birmingham, Alabama.

The Owner has designated that bid documents will be available for examination at the AGC Internet Plan Room, 5000 Grantswood Road, Irondale, AL 35210; at the Birmingham Construction Industry Authority, 3600 Fourth Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35222; and at the Reed Construction Data Office, 30 Technology Pkwy, South, Suite 500, Norcross, GA 30092-2912; and electronically through McGraw-Hill Construction Dodge.

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

The Board of Trustees of the University of Alabama for the University of Alabama at Birmingham requests sealed proposals from General Contractors for furnishing all labor and materials required for the UAB Renovation of NHB 3rd Floor for Quality Offices, UAB Job #H135036A.

The scope of work includes the selective demolition of +/- 5,000 SF of existing clinic space on the 3rd floor of the UAB New Hillman Building and the upgrade of various finishes throughout the space. The scope includes architectural as well as minimal mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection work.

Work will be performed under strict infection control guidelines to ensure the safety of patients and staff. The contractor will be responsible for and should have experience with implementing and maintaining the infection control requirements, interim life safety measures, coordinating shutdowns with UAB, and maintaining a clean and organized job site.

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

*Proposals will be received until 2:00 PM CST on August 22, 2013 and will *thereafter be publicly opened and read aloud in the large conference room of the *2020 Building, 2020 8th Avenue South, Birmingham, Alabama 35233. Bids must be submitted on Proposal Forms furnished. Proposals shall be clearly identified on the exterior of the package with the bidder’s name, address, State license number, the name of the project being bid, time and place of the bid opening. Sealed proposals shall be submitted in triplicate and shall be properly identified.

Proposals may be hand delivered or received by mail on the date of the bid opening at the Office of JVann Martin, Director of Health Systems Planning & Technology, 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. August 22, 2013 will be returned unopened.

*A Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held on August 14, 2013 at 2:00 PM CST *in the large conference room of the 2020 Building. UAB has designated that bid documents will be available for examination at the Plan Room of F.W. Dodge Corporation, 3000 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233; at AGC Internet Plan Room, 5000 Grantswood Road, Irondale, Alabama 35210; at The Birmingham Construction Industry Authority, 3600 Fourth Avenue South, Birmingham, Alabama 35222; the Construction Data Control, 398 DeKalb Technology Park, Atlanta, GA 30340.

Two (2) sets of bid documents will be issued by the Architect, *Kahn South Inc., *2821 Second Ave S., Suite G, Birmingham, AL 35233 to qualified bidders upon deposit of * $200.00 per set, by check drawn to the order of UAB. Deposits will be refunded in full to bona fide General Contract bidders, and the difference between deposits and cost of reproduction and handling will be refunded to others, upon return of all documents in good condition. Deposits will be forfeited if bid documents are not returned within ten (10) days after the Bid Opening.
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*ADVERTISEMENT for BIDDER PRE-QUALIFICATION
*And NOTICE of INTENT to RECEIVE BIDS from PREQUALIFIED BIDDERS

Pre-qualification submittals will be received by Juan DeOnis 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 Friday, August 16, 2013 at 5:00 *PM CST. The original and two (2) duplicates of submittals 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 MEB5
*DEMOLITION PROJECT
*UAB JOB # H125038A

*A. SCOPE OF WORK:

The scope of work includes the demolition of +/- 14,000 SF of office space on the 5th floor of the UAB Medical Education Building to accommodate future renovations. The scope includes architectural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection work.

The work will be performed adjacent to functioning health care units and care will be taken to limit disruptions to the units. Work will be performed under strict infection control guidelines to ensure the safety of patients and staff. The contractor will be responsible for and should have experience with implementing and maintaining the infection control requirements, interim life safety measures, coordinating shutdowns with UAB, and maintaining a clean and organized job site.

*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 5:00 PM CST on August 16, 2013 *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 *5:00 PM CST on August 23, 2013.

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:
*Kahn South, Inc.
*2821 Second Ave S. Suite G
*Birmingham, AL 35233
*Phone: 205-460-1912
*scott.heywood@akahn.com

*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 $200.00 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; McGraw-Hill Construction Dodge, 3000 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233; at the AGC Internet Plan Room, 5000 Grantswood Road, Irondale, AL 35210; at the Birmingham Construction Industry Authority, 3600 Fourth Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35222; and at the Reed Construction Data Office, 30 Technology Pkwy, South, Suite 500, Norcross, GA 30092-2912.

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 September 24th, 2013 at 2:00 PM CST at the UAB 2020 Building Large Conference Room.

D. PRE-BID CONFERENCE
A mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held on September 4, 2013 at 10:00 AM CST at the UAB 2020 Building Large Conference Room. It is mandatory that all pre-qualified prime contractor bidders attend the Pre-Bid Conference.
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