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Meet the Area Leaders Partnering to Help Improve Childcare in Alabama

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Inaugural members of the Childcare Accelerator cohort alongside Women’s Foundation of Alabama team at the center. (Provided)

By Javacia Harris Bowser | For The Birmingham Times

Just as it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a village to improve childcare in Alabama.

In this case, Women’s Foundation of Alabama (WFA); the United Way of Central Alabama (UWCA); ASL Creative Strategies; Childcare Resources and several other organizations partnered to offer an 8-week program that focuses on the business side of owning a daycare facility with the goal of helping participants open centers that can provide affordable and high-quality services.

The initiative is part of WFA’s Advancing Alabama Childcare Accelerator with the United Way of Central Alabama and its Early Learning Acceleration Institute (ELAI) that also includes Success by 6, which works to improve the quality of early learning for children in childcare settings.

Katrina Watson, Senior Vice President of Community Impact for the UWCA

“The [ELAI] was generated from the Early Learning Action Network, which is a collaboration that has existed since 2014, and it has the best and brightest minds in childcare,” said Katrina Watson, Senior Vice President of Community Impact for the United Way of Central Alabama.

“Through our collaborative efforts that have existed for 10 years, we have heard directly from centers that they needed additional funding for expansion and that expansion funds don’t exist,” said Watson, who added that additional partners included the Department of Human Resources, childcare professionals and center leaders, and more. “Part of our role is to hear what community needs are and then to develop solutions for that.”

United Way assisted with and helped streamline the application and selection process for WFA’s Childcare Accelerator and provided $25,000 grants to three participants of the program. (All participants received grants thanks to support from other local and national partners.) Additionally, United Way provided more than $100,000 to WFA to help fund the business development coaching that the Childcare Accelerator offered.

“Overall, our mission is for us to care for the community, and one of the most important ways to care for the community is to support early childhood development and education,” Watson said. “We believe that every child deserves the tools to succeed, and early learning is key for that. Our six-county region has areas considered to be a childcare desert … So, if we can increase access to quality childcare, then we are giving children the tools that they need to succeed. Ultimately, they’ll be kindergarten-ready, which will, in turn, help them perform better in school, increase their likelihood of graduation, and be both college and career ready.”

ASL Creative Strategies

WFA Childcare Accelerator received funding from the Kresge Foundation and essential support from Childcare Resources and ASL Creative Strategies, a firm founded by Alycia Levels-Moore that specializes in helping businesses and organizations launch new programs.

Alycia Levels-Moore, founder, ASL Creative Strategies

For Levels-Moore, being a part of this project was a no-brainer.

“I’m a mom of four,” Levels-Moore said. “Childcare is a big part of how I’m even able to do all the work that I do. Childcare providers who are equipped and who are passionate about the work they do, provide support to women who are doing the things that really keep the world going.”

Zhaundra C. Jones, Vice President of Philanthropy and Learning at the Women’s Foundation of Alabama and the brainchild behind the accelerator, said Levels-Moore was the first person she called when she knew she wanted to revamp what WFA and Childcare Resources had piloted “to create a full-on business-focused accelerator to really pour into childcare business owners.”

“I respect the Women’s Foundation for the work that they do and to provide them with the support they needed was a privilege and honor,” Levels-Moore said. “I also respect Zhaundra for who she is and the role that she plays in the ecosystem. Anything I can do to support that I was going to do, hands down.”

ASL Creative helped find some instructors for the accelerator and provided coaching, curriculum development, project management and online learning space for the program.

Being a partner was a way to make a positive impact not only on the participants but the communities they represent, Levels-Moore said.

Zhaundra C. Jones, WFA Vice President of Philanthropy and Learning.

“When we support women, we support communities,” she said. “Every community needs a safe place for their children to go so that parents can work, so that they can add to the bottom line of the economy. When women are successful, the community can’t help but to be impacted and to thrive because of them.”

Childcare Resources

Catrice Pruitt, Director of Programs at Childcare Resources, helped kick off the eight weeks of learning by serving as one of the first instructors.

“We talked about various topics that are important to operating and managing a childcare program, making sure that they had some foundational knowledge,” Pruitt explained. “So many of the owners who are doing this great work come into this field because they have a passion for children. They see a need and they want to fill the gap in their communities, but they may not know how that looks from a business lens as far as budgeting, planning, projecting, and strategically thinking through things.”

Catrice Pruitt, Director of Programs at Childcare Resources

Pruitt believes that helping childcare center owners build their businesses on solid foundations will not only help strengthen the workforce of today but of the future too.

“This sets the foundation for education,” she said. “This is the groundwork and if we can have children ready to enter school, then we know that they’re going to be successful academically and they’re going to be successful in life.”

Additionally, several other organizations – including Success by 6, Jefferson State Community College’s Child Development Program, Alabama Partnership for Children, and the school readiness program Small Magic – collaborated for a resource fair. These connections, as well as the cohort model of the program helped participants build a sense of community and the social capital that could help sustain their businesses.

WFA has already been asked to implement a childcare accelerator program in Limestone County and is in talks with groups from Montgomery and Huntsville too.

“We don’t purport to have all the answers,” Jones said.  “But we’re trying to figure out how we can continue to represent the voices of childcare workers, the women that are working in that space, and help professionalize this space so that people see it as providing the value that it actually provides.”

Learn more about Women’s Foundation of Alabama at wfalabama.org.

Archie Clay III Dedicates His Latest Fashion Venture to Clean Living and Healthy Minds

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Archie Clay III is the creator of Brain Love, a luxury apparel brand dedicated to cultivating spaces within the community dedicated to clean living and healthy minds. (Provided)

By Ameera Steward | For The Birmingham Times

After parting ways with his close friend and business partner, as well as shutting down their business, WEAR BRIMS, last year, 34-year-old Archie Clay III found himself depressed. “I had to step back to figure out what was next for myself and my future,” said Clay, who grew up in Atlanta, Georgia.

While reflecting, he realized there was an opportunity to advocate for those struggling with mental health issues through his love for fashion. The result was Brain Love, a luxury apparel brand dedicated to cultivating spaces within the community dedicated to clean living and healthy minds.

Brain Love is a luxury apparel brand dedicated to cultivating spaces within the community dedicated to clean living and healthy minds. (Provided)

“The whole thought process [behind Brain Love] is just giving people a [clean] lifestyle—how you eat, how you read, what you read—everything that aligns with being a better person inside and outside,” he said.

A History of Mental Illness

During his depression, one thing that kept Clay from going “down this dark rabbit hole” was remembering what his father went through.

“My dad has struggled with mental health his entire life,” said Clay. “He had a mental breakdown when I was 3 years old, and [he was] off and on in my life. … We’ve never really connected, [but] he did come to my wedding [in April].”

As a result of his younger years, mental health has always been part of Clay’s life since he can remember, and it’s an area he has always wanted to fully understand.

“Some people do not know how to ask for help,” he said. “There’s so much pressure on individuals, and there’s not a safe space for people to even ask for [help].”

Clay added that he’s a mental health advocate not only because of his dad but also because his wife of four months, Alexandra Clay, has a history of mental health issues within her family, as well. “I even told my wife, ‘We have to be very mindful with our [future] kids,’” he said.

Humble Beginnings

Clay was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee. His parents eventually moved to the Atlanta metro area, and he attended Stone Mountain High School in Stone Mountain, Georgia, where he played basketball, tennis, and soccer and participated in band.

He also practiced and became proficient in the Korean martial art of Taekwondo, earning a black belt in the sport: “Throughout high school, until I was 16 or 17, I competed in national championships and almost went to the Junior Olympics when I was in high school,” he said.

Clay now practices both Muay Thai, “a sport and martial art from Thailand that uses punches, kicks, knees, and elbows in combat,” according to MuayThai.com, and boxing to help with his mental health.

“Muay Thai and boxing are my safe spaces where I can clear my mind and be fully present,” he said. “I’ve been practicing martial arts since I was 3 years old and have always appreciated the mental discipline it offers. It continues to have the same positive effect on me today. Training at the gym at least four times a week has been crucial for my mental well-being.”

Sense of Style

Clay’s love of fashion was instilled early. When he was a baby, his mother would take him to her fashion merchandising classes. “I feel like that early exposure and knowledge rubbed off on me,” he said. “Inspired by her energy and support, I always wanted to work in fashion.”

When it comes to style, Clay has always been unique and was never a follower.

“Of course, when you’re younger, you’re trying to fit in. But when it came to my own fashion, it was just me,” he said, adding that his grandparents wore hats, particularly fedoras.

“After my grandmother passed away [in 2010], this passion [to work in fashion] intensified, and I felt guided by God to focus on creating hats,” he said. “From there, it all fell into place.”

Clay and former his business partner, Tajh Crutch, gained nationwide recognition for their successful luxury hat company WEAR BRIMS, but the duo ended the partnership at the end of 2023, leaving Clay despondent.

Loving on the Brain

Archie Clay’s love of fashion was instilled early. When he was a baby, his mother would take him to her fashion merchandising classes. (Provided)

Given what he was going through, in September 2023 Clay decided to take on the mental health space with Brain Love, which is his second solo business after starting the Rosetta Capital Group, a parent company named after his grandmother Rosetta Clay that houses smaller companies, such as Brain Love.

The mission behind Brain Love is to be a vehicle of change through fashion, said Clay, who added that he wants to allow fashion to change the narrative and perspective of how people see mental health.

Customers have always formed deep connections with brands, and brands have always aligned with people’s values and self-expression, he said.

“People don’t just buy clothes; they connect with the identities and messages of these brands,” Clay said. “We want to leverage our brand for good, recognizing the significant influence brands wield today.

“Our goal is to show that being stylish, cool, and mentally aware is crucial not only for personal happiness but also for navigating life’s challenges. While life can be tough and struggles are inevitable, staying focused on mental health can make these challenges a bit more manageable.”

Tools gained from earlier therapy sessions helped Clay “get back on track” following his recent struggles, he said.

“My focus was on drawing closer to God and aligning with the path … laid out for me,” he said. “I meditated, read the Bible and the Quran, and prayed daily, believing that connecting with God was essential for determining my next steps. Additionally, my family and community played a crucial role in my mental health during that time. Their support was invaluable, relieving much of the pressure I felt.”

As part of his commitment to being an advocate for mental health, five percent of Brain Love’s sales are donated to Silence The Shame, an organization “dedicated to revolutionizing mental health in vulnerable communities,” Clay said.

With a price point starting at $60 and inspiration from the warm colors and vegetation of Mexico City, Mexico, Brain Love offers minimalistic and high-quality pieces dedicated to the progression of self. The brand is dedicated to helping its customers feel clean and serene.

Visitors to the website, brainlove.store, hear the song “Hold On, Be Strong” because Clay is focused on the small details of cultivating a space of peace. This tune, the intro on the widely acclaimed “Aquemini” album by hip-hop duo OutKast, features soothing vocals accompanied by rapper, singer, and songwriter Andre 3000 playing the kalimba, an instrument of African origin that is sometimes called a finger piano. This peaceful vibe trickles down to the way orders are packaged, for which Clay uses the Japanese method of Kintsugi, the art of using gold to repair things that are broken.

“Meaning that you can always put yourself back together. … Basically, there’s never a space where you can’t get better,” Clay said. “That’s kind of the whole philosophy behind Brain Love—just because you failed doesn’t mean you can’t make something happen out of yourself.”

To learn more about the Brain Love brand, visit brainlove.store or check out the Instagram pages @brainlove_official or @archieclaythe3rd.

Boating, Water Safety and Navigation Markers

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As we enter into the close of our summer’s safety article series, which has been centered around water safety, it is important that we add an article about understanding navigation markers when boating.

These myriad shapes, sizes and colors of boating signs, markers and buoys become the road signs and painted lines on water for a boater. They can be confusing to a new boater, but these aids are the traffic signals that guide boaters safely along waterways. All the different “road signs” of the water are called “aid to navigation (AIS).” Those aids to navigation identify dangerous or controlled areas and give directions and information.

There are many AIS and they can be confusing to read and understand. These AIS will include fixed markers on poles and pilings as well as a variety of floating buoys that are anchored to the bottom. Why the variety you may ask? The answer is simple, mostly, it is a matter of physical geography.”

The two main types of AIS are buoys and beacons. Buoys float on top of the water and are anchored to the bottom. (Adobe Stock)

Knowing the basic AIS is a good idea and will keep you and other boaters out of trouble. You need to start with the most common AIS and some others used elsewhere throughout the nation’s coastal and inland waters.

The two main types of AIS are buoys and beacons. Buoys float on top of the water and are anchored to the bottom. A buoy with a cylindrical shape and a conical top is referred to as a “nun”. Those mark the edge of the channel on your starboard (right) side when entering from the open sea or heading upstream on a river or lake. A buoy with a cylindrical shape and flat top is called a “can”. Those mark the edge of the channel on the port (left) side when entering from the open sea heading upstream.

Buoys are commonly used in deep water where it is difficult to drive a piling. In other places, channels may shift and change over time, so again utilizing a buoy (which can be moved and re-anchored at a later date) is the norm.

Beacons are permanently fixed and most commonly anchored to the bottom. In areas where the bottom composition does not change much over time and the water is shallow enough to drive a piling, a fixed marker (which does not require as much regular maintenance) is often a better option.

Also remember that some, but not all, beacons and buoys will be lit. Those that are lighted will blink at a specific frequency. These frequencies are marked on charts and chartplotters. So, if you see a red one blinking every three seconds, for example, you can look at your chart, find the nearest red marker that blinks at that frequency, and easily identify the marker you are looking at.

A beacon that has a light attached is simply referred to as a “light.” A beacon without a light attached is called a “daybeacon.” Buoys and beacons offer a variety of navigation information according to shape, color, light and audible signal.

A boater should treat the beacons (fixed markers) and the buoys exactly the same. Knowing and understanding these AIS is essential to Keeping an Eye on Safety while boating.

PEOPLE, PLACES & THINGS

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dream hampton (Provided)

By Gwen DeRu | The Birmingham Times

WELCOME TO BIRMINGHAM! ENJOY OUR CITY AS YOU ENJOY SIDEWALK FILM FEST!! COME BACK SOON!!

TODAY…
**READ THE BIRMINGHAM TIMES. Catch up on the news!!!
**ALABAMA BLAZIN BINGO, 6 p.m. at Overtime Grill and Bar.
**FILM at Sidewalk Film.
**3RD THURSDAY BLUES JAM, 7 p.m. at True Story Brewing.
**KARAOKE WITH JOSEPH, 7 p.m.  at True Story Brewing.
**BEERSIPPERS ALBUM RELEASE SHOW at Saturn.

FRIDAY…
**CONCEPTION, 8 p.m. At True Story Brewing.
**MAGIC CITY MAYHEM featuring LYNAM, VELCRO PYGMIES and more at Iron City.
**MILK & HONEY at Saturn.
**METAL NIGHT with BLOOD AND BRUTALITY, CASKET KIDS and BLOOD STAINED DUSK at The Nick Rocks.
**ROARING 20’s Gatsby Murder, 6:30 p.m .at Arlington historic House and Gardens.
**NORTH MISSISSIPPI ALLSTARS, 8 p.m. at Avondale Brewing Company.

SATURDAY…
**SATURDAY MORNING CARTOONS (FREE), 10 – 11:45 a.m. at Sidewalk Film Fest, 1821 2nd Avenue North, downtown.
**SELF-SOOTHE SATURDAY: ART AND YOGA, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the Birmingham Museum of Art.
**Film: WE STRANGERS, 12:30 p.m. at ASFA Dorothy Jemison Day Theatre.
**COMMUTED a Sidewalk Fest Film, 12:30 – 2p.m. at the Carver Theatre. Sponsored by the Alabama Appleseed Center for Law and Justice.
**JAMMIN’: AN IMPROV JAM, 1-2 p.m. at the ASFA Black Box with live comedy. There are surprise guests, also.
**Film: ERA OCULTA, 3 p.m. at the Carver Theatre.
**ALT ART MARKET, 5 p.m. at True Story Brewing.
**Film: WHERE LIFE BEGINS, 5:15 p.m. at ASFA Black Box. A Senegalese immigrant’s journey to  mother-hood takes an unusual turn.
Film: DORIS, 5:15 p.m. at ASFA Black Box. – In Ghana, a young woman struggles with disruptive fits and a growing jealousy toward her friend.
**SECRET SCREENINGS, 5:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. at the Sidewalk Cinema Theater B and A. You don’t want to miss these.
**AFTER DARK, 7:45 p.m. at ASFA BLACK BOX with Burn Out, The Rainbow Bridge, Who’s There?, Chairs, Lemon-Aid, Neon Banana, The Others Partners, and Deathless.
**SEAN OF THE SOUTH will sing the National Anthem and throw out the first pitch at the Birmingham Barons baseball game.
**WASHED OUT at Iron City.
**SOULTOPIA at Saturn.
**LATE NIGHT SATURDAY NIGHT with R.1.Y.T. at The Nick Rocks.
**NOLAN’S FLIGHT AND MALICE JACKSON at The Nick Rocks.
**PARTY ON SET! SATURDAY NIGHT at WorkPlay.
**STEPH AND THE WEB, BROTHA JOSH, THE RUGS, 8 p.m. in the Upstairs at Avondale

SUNDAY…
**BLACK LENS DOCUMENTARY, 1:15 p.m. at ASFA BLACK BOX. See the films: Weree, Solace of Sisterhood, Mama’s Sundry, Please Ask For It, Ma njaye Masaala A se ka Wometi (From God to Man), Legacy in the Making: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Empathy in Africa.
**BURGERS, 3 p.m. and EASE BACK 4th SUNDAYS, 5 p.m. at True Story Brewing.
**Film: ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENTARIES, 4 p.m. at ASFA Black Box including Tuhaymani’chi Pal Waniqa (The Water Flows Always), Trash & Burn, The Return of Noouhan-Toka’na (Swift Fox), FL*shing Injustice, and TreeHugger.
**Film: PINE GROVE: MORE THAN A SCHOOL- Pine Grove was built in 1917 to educate African American children in the South during the Jim Crow era. The historic schoolhouse is now listed on America’s “Most Endangered Historic Places.”
**KAT HUNTER at The Nick Rocks.
**EVERY 4TH SUNDAY TAYLOR HOLLINGSWORTH at The Nick Rocks.

MONDAY…
**THE MOTH BIRMINGHAM STORYSLAM: HOT MESS at Saturn.

TUESDAY…
**THRA with DEFENSE WOUND and SERAPHIC ENTOMBMENT at Saturn.
BIRMINGHAM SONGWRITER’S ROUND EVERY TUESDAY with SUSANNAH SEALES at The Nick Rocks.
**JOSE CARR EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT at True Story Brewing.

WEDNESDAY…
**THE COLLECTION at Saturn.
**REAL FUNNY COMEDY WEDNESDAYS at True Story Brewing. Sign up at 7:30 p.m.

NEXT THURSDAY…
**READ THE BIRMINGHAM TIMES. Catch up on the news!!!
**BLUES JAM EVERY 3rd THURSDAY, 7- 10 p.m. at True Story Brewing.
**OPEN MIC THURSDAYS with EUNICE ELLIOTT,  7 p.m. at StarDome Comedy Club.
**SISTER CITIES SHOWCASE with COMEDIANS FUNNYMAINE AND JOEY LYCETT – From Birmingham, Alabama to Birmingham UK. Live taping to be aired on Skymax in the UK.
**GLADYS IMPROV at Saturn.
LAST WAVE INDIE NIGHT at the Nick featuring ALEXA FONTAINE, DANNY HAMMONS, COLBY REGISTER & TBA at The Nick Rocks.

NEXT FRIDAY…
**GOGOL BORDELLO at Iron City.
**GIMME GIMME DISCO at Saturn.

THIS WEEK ….
**SATURDAY – 21st ANNUAL TASTE OF 4th AVENUE JAZZ FESTIVAL, 2-10 p.m. in downtown Birmingham, with live music, spoken word, dance, vendors and more.

NEXT WEEK…
**NEXT SATURDAY – JAMAICA BAMA REGGAE BLOCK PARTY, 7 p.m. at Black Creek Tavern in Fultondale, 1731 Decatur Highway. If you love Caribbean food and drink, come and grab a rum punch and pineapple bowl and enjoy the Caribbean Party for Adults ONLY. There will be JERK CHICKEN AND SHRIMP (Specials 7-9 p.m.) Hosted by Rich Muzic, with Island Vibe Beats by TRINI FRESH/DJ PUMPKIN. There is a Limbo Line contest. FOR PARTY BUS INFO, call or text 205-538-1533 OR 205-427-0710. (If you are experiencing any symptoms associated with respiratory illness, including shortness of breath, fever, or cough, they ask that you stay home.
**NEXT SATURDAY – PURPLE MADNESS -TRIBUTE TO PRINCE at Iron City.

ALL WEEK LONG…SIDEWALK FILM FEST – This week through Sunday, is the Annual Sidewalk Film Festival in Birmingham.  There will be films of all kinds including documentary, narrative, and shorts of all kind for youth, after dark, Black Lens, animated, music videos and more.
….HERE ARE A FEW PICKED FOR YOU…but don’t take my word, check the full list every day… Go to Sidewalk Film Fest location and the website.

TODAY…
**Black Lens Spotlight Night – The SOUTH GOT SOMETHING TO SAY, 7 p.m. at the Sidewalk Film Center + Cinema. The documentary serves as a nostalgic journey through the evolution of Southern Hip-Hop, resonating with those who grew up in the ‘80s and ‘90s. It captures the essence of an era, blending good times and challenges while celebrating the transformative power of music. It offers a compelling narrative that reflects on both the hardships and triumphs of Southern artists in showcasing their contributions to a genre that shaped a generation. The documentary educates and evokes a sense of cultural pride and musical appreciation.

FRIDAY… (Bessemer Native Andre Holland is in the film.)
**OPENING NIGHT – Film: EXHIBITING FORGIVENESS, 7 p.m. at the Alabama Theatre. The film follows the journey of Tarrell (Andre Holland) a successful Black artist whose life is disrupted by the return of his estranged father, La’Ron (John Earl Jelks) a recovering addict seeking reconciliation. While his mother, Joyce (Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor) has forgiven La’Ron, Tarrell grapples with the challenges of forgiveness. The film is directed by Titus Kaphar and blends emotional depth and visual artistry, exploring themes of familial strife and complexities of forgiveness against the backdrop of the contemporary art world. -T.Marie King, Lead Shorts & Black Lens Programmer.

SATURDAY…
**Film: FAMILY TREE, 10 a.m. at the Carver Theatre. Rarely do we get to explore the lives of Black families as they navigate the adversity that comes with generational wealth. This film is a story of the Newby and Williams families as they work to maintain the land their grandparents passed down. Among the challenges they face are corrupt land developers, growing environmental demands and family dynamics. Directed by Jennifer MacArthur. Directed by Jennifer MacArthur.- Patrick Johnson, Shorts Programmer.
**Film: COMMUTED, 12:30 – 2 p.m. at the Carver Theatre. This film is about Danielle Metz’s triple life sentence that was commuted and how she got a rare chance to regain the life and family that she’d been dreaming about in prison. But back home in New Orleans, she steps into a different reality. Commuted traces her journey to find a purpose and love, and to confront the wounds in incarceration that linger after release from prison.
**Film: FOLLOWING HARRY, 5:30 p.m. at the Carver Theatre. This film is a powerful call to action that challenges audiences to reflect on the progress made and the work that still lies ahead in the pursuit of social justice. It is a testament to Belafonte’s influence and a reminder of the importance of continuing the struggle for a just and equitable world. Directed by Susanne Rostock.
**Film: IT WAS ALL A DREAM, 8 p.m. at the Carver Theatre. Thirty years ago, New York University music journalist dream hampton dug into the emerging world of a male-dominated rap scene. She persistently questioned rap icons about the role of female rappers in the industry and captured raw footage from artists like Lil’ Kim, Snoop, Biggie and Dr. Dre. Directed by dream hampton.

SUNDAY…
**Film: MAX ROACH: THE DRUM ALSO WALTZES, 10 a.m. at the Carver Theatre. The film is about a musician whose far-retching ambitions were inspired and challenged by the inequities of society.  His stunningly diverse seven-decade career marked him as one of the greatest musical artists of the 20th century – and a pioneering cultural activist – at times when the nation was steeped in racism. Directed by Sam Pollard and Ben Shapiro.
**Film: BLACK TABLE, 12:15 p.m. at the Carver Theatre. This documentary chronicles the experiences of Black students at Yale University during the ‘90s. Against the backdrop of affirmative action debates and cultural shifts of the era, it focuses on a group of students who form a close-knit community around a dining table. Directed by John Antonio James and Billy Mack.
**Film: A SYMPHONY CELEBRATION: THE BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA, 2:30 p.m. at the Carver Theatre. With DR. HENRY PANION, III. This was collaboration with Grammy  Award-winning artists, an orchestra, and choir featuring members from Historically Black Colleges and Universities and the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Directed by Michael Edwards and Henry Panion.
**Film: TUXEDO JUNCTION, 4:45 p.m. at Carver Theatre. The Almost Lost Story of Tuxedo Junction is a feature-length documentary about the rise and fall of a small neighborhood in Alabama that produced some of the finest Black Musicians in American history – who they were, how they came to be and why they should be remembered and celebrated. – Directed by Katie Rogers.
**CLOSING NIGHT – Film: MISSING FROM FIRE TRAIL ROAD, 6 p.m. at the Alabama Theatre. The film is a riveting documentary detailing the case of Mary Ellen Johnson–Davis, a Native American woman who disappeared in 2020. Her story exposes how hundreds of indigenous women continue to go missing in the United States of America., perpetuating trans-generational trauma on Indian reservations.- Sabrina Van Tassel Director.
**Film: SEEKING MAVIS BEACON, 7 p.m. at the Carver Theatre. The film is about the most recognizable woman in technology. Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing taught millions globally, but the software’s Haitian-born cover model vanished decades ago. Seeking Mavis Beacon follows two DIY detectives as they search for the model and pose questions about identity and artificial intelligence. Directed by Jazmin Jones. – T.Marie King, Lead Shorts & Black Lens Programmer.

FOR BOOK LOVERS…
**BOOK: NIGHT FLYER – HARRIET TUBMAN and the FAITH DREAMS of a FREE PEOPLE by Author TIYA MILES. The book explores Tubman’s Spiritual life, inner world and intimate relationships. Tubman was an abolitionist, hero and addressed slavery to freedom. A little history for you.
**BOOK: IF BEALE STREET COULD TALK by author JAMES BALDWIN. Baldwin is well known for many books. This book is set in the 1970s Harlem and is a love story about the relationship between Tish, a pregnant 19-year-old and Fonny, her finance’ a 22-year-old sculptor. The book explores two Black families that are trying to survive against the odds of a deeply racist criminal justice system where Fonny is falsely accused of rape and being arrested.

FOR YOUTH…JOBS AND CAREERS…
**LEAD EARLY BIRMINGHAM 2024-2025 COHORT APPLICATION deadline is August 30. Apply at www.bhamyouthfirst.or/leadearly. This is for families and children ages birth through five. To learn more visit bhamyouthfirst.org/leadearly-birmingham/ OR call 205-320-0879 OR email: dys@birminghamal.gov.
**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.
**FALL TRADE EXPO 2024 – Looking for career opportunities? Then this is for you. UAB’s TRIO Educational Opportunity Center’s Fall Trade Expo 2024 is September 5, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. with plumbing, GED, CNA, PST, CDL, Cosmetology, welding and more, at the Birmingham downtown Library, at 2100 Park Place North. Sign up for a trade or apply for a job. For more information, contact Rico Drakes at 205-224-7571 or rdrakes@uab.edu.
**STRIVE BIRMINGHAM, a 10 week, NO COST PROGRAM to start a career in Healthcare and Office Operations. Program includes training, certifications and job placement assistance, earn-as-you-learn incentives for students and lifetime support services for graduates. Strive helps people facing the biggest societal barriers to employment obtain the training and support they need to build a career. Visit www.strive.org/birmingham OR contact birmingham@strive.org.
**BETTERHELP – Think Big Foundation and BetterHelp are bringing you free therapy. Betterhelp removes the traditional barriers to therapy to give everyone access to affordable and convenient mental health care – 100% online. Think Big Foundation has partnered with BetterHelp to offer 3-months of free therapy to support you and give you a head start on your mental wellness journey. Starting therapy for the first time is something to be proud of, but it can also feel daunting. Here are a few reminders about the process: Your therapist isn’t here to judge you. BE honest and be authentically you. It’s ok to start therapy even if you feel like you don’t have lots to talk about. Figuring out your goals is part of the process. Your therapist cares about who you are and how you’re doing. The relationship between you is where a lot of the most important work happens. Switching therapists is totally ok. You can switch anytime and as many times as you need to find the right fit. Go to betterhelp.com/voucher and type in: think-big. Have a question? Email contact@betterhelp.com.
**BIRMINGHAM CAREER CENTER WORK BASED LEARNING is short-term training on the job for young adults. Employers benefit also. Information of what or how you can help is available. Young adults develop occupational skills through worksite instruction & supervised job tasks in a structured, paid work experience. (Earn while you learn.) It is available to in-school and out-of-school youth and can be part time, full-time, internship, summertime and more. Go to the Birmingham Career Center, 3216 4th Avenue S, Birmingham, 35222 OR Call 205-582-5200. TODAY!
**BE THE PEACE COMMON GROUND INITIATIVE will help empower youth in Birmingham City Schools. Common ground is a restorative justice program.
**BROOKS LAW GROUP CAR ACCIDENT SCHOLARSHIP is accepting application for their annual Car Accident Scholarship. It is open to high school seniors and undergraduate students. The deadline for applications is December 31. The scholarship amount that will be awarded is $1,000.

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.

“We are breaking the ground of the first, and only, autism day care center in Alabama so far.”

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FOUNDER AND OWNER OF MY ANGEL’S AUTISM CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER, SHEMAIAH JONES ON THE BESSEMER-BASED, STATE-OF THE-ART FACILITY THAT WILL SERVE CHILDREN ON THE AUTISM SPECTRUM; WBRC.COM, AUGUST 17.

 

August 22, 2024

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By multiple measures, the Birmingham area has seen dramatic declines in unemployment since the pandemic. (Adobe Stock)
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Employment
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CITYWALK AMBASSADOR PART TIME
BJCC, is recruiting for a CityWalk Ambassador Part Time, for information & to apply visit https://www.bjcc.org/jobs/ or send resume to careers@bjcc.org /fax resume 205-458-8530.
BT08/22/2024
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LEGAL
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CASE NO. CV-2024-902403
THE BIRMINGHAM LAND BANK AUTHORITY, a Public Corporation,
NOTICE OF FINAL HEARING BY PUBLICATION
TO: TARVARUS BROOKS; CITY OF BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA; J.T. SMALLWOOD, JEFFERSON COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR; AND JEFFERSON COUNTY, ALABAMA, and any and all other unknown heirs, claimants or interested parties claiming any right, title, estate, lien, or interest in the real estate described herein,
TAKE NOTICE that on June 17, 2024, the Birmingham Land Bank Authority filed the above-styled Complaint and the Land Bank asserts that it has recorded notice of a pending quiet title and foreclosure action in the Probate Court of Jefferson County, Alabama concerning the rights and/or interests in the following real property:
North 50 feet of Lot 19, Block 28, according to the Survey of Birmingham Realty Company’s Addition Number 4 as recorded in Map Book 9, Page 14, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Jefferson County, Alabama.
It appears said legal is the same as that certain legal described in Instrument Number 2018022809 as follows: N 50 FT OF LOT 19 BLK 28 BHAMRLTY COS ADD NO 4
and assigned Parcel ID No. 22-00-24-4-023-010.000
ANY PERSON WITH A PROPERTY INTEREST IN THE ABOVE PROPERTY IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THEY MAY LOSE SUCH INTEREST, IF ANY, AS A RESULT OF THE ABOVE-REFERENCED QUIET TITLE AND FORECLOSURE ACTION. The final hearing on this quiet title and foreclosure action is hereby set for October 11, 2024, in Room 340, Jefferson County Courthouse in Birmingham, Alabama at 9:00 a.m. The judgment of the Court may result in title to the property vesting in the Birmingham Land Bank Authority.  Any person who proves to the Court’s satisfaction a right to redeem the property pursuant to Alabama Code §§ 40-10-73 (1975) et seq. or Alabama Code §§ 40-10-83 (1975) et seq. may redeem the property pursuant to those statutes within five (5) days after the appropriate Order on Final Hearing is issued.  FAILURE TO REDEEM THE PROPERTY AND PRESENT PROOF OF REDEMPTION TO THE CIRCUIT COURT WITHIN THE 5-DAY PERIOD MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION.
The address of the Birmingham Land Bank Authority is City Hall, 710 North 20th St., Birmingham, AL 35203. The Birmingham Land Bank Authority may be contacted care of Jake A. Kiser at (205) 918-5037.
IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED by the undersigned Clerk of Court that publication of this notice be made once a week for three consecutive weeks in the Birmingham Times, a newspaper of general circulation in Jefferson County, Alabama, and that all persons to whom this notice is addressed and any and all persons claiming any title to, interest in, or lien or encumbrance on the above-described land or any part thereof are hereby directed to plead, answer or otherwise respond to the Complaint in this case before the hearing date or a judgment by default may be rendered against them it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Comp/2024
BT08/22/2024
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CASE NO. CV-2024-902181
THE BIRMINGHAM LAND BANK AUTHORITY, a Public Corporation,
NOTICE OF FINAL HEARING BY PUBLICATION
TO: RONALD W. JACKSON; A.K. WATFORD HOUSTON; CITY OF BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA; J.T. SMALLWOOD, JEFFERSON COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR; AND JEFFERSON COUNTY, ALABAMA, and any and all other unknown heirs, claimants or interested parties claiming any right, title, estate, lien, or interest in the real estate described herein,
TAKE NOTICE that on May 30, 2024, the Birmingham Land Bank Authority filed the above-styled Complaint and the Land Bank asserts that it has recorded notice of a pending quiet title and foreclosure action in the Probate Court of Jefferson County, Alabama concerning the rights and/or interests in the following real property:
The West 110.0 feet of Lot 12, in Block 28, according to the Survey of Birmingham Realty Company’s Addition No. 4, as recorded in Map Book 9, Page 14, in the Probate Office of Jefferson County, Alabama.
It appears said legal is the same as that certain legal described in Inst. No. 2017074287 as follows: W 110FT OF LOT 12 BLK 28 BHAM RLTY COS 4TH ADD NO 4
and assigned Parcel ID No. 22-00-24-4-023-002.000
ANY PERSON WITH A PROPERTY INTEREST IN THE ABOVE PROPERTY IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THEY MAY LOSE SUCH INTEREST, IF ANY, AS A RESULT OF THE ABOVE-REFERENCED QUIET TITLE AND FORECLOSURE ACTION. The final hearing on this quiet title and foreclosure action is hereby set for September 20, 2024, in Room 670, Jefferson County Courthouse in Birmingham, Alabama at 9:30 a.m. The judgment of the Court may result in title to the property vesting in the Birmingham Land Bank Authority.  Any person who proves to the Court’s satisfaction a right to redeem the property pursuant to Alabama Code §§ 40-10-73 (1975) et seq. or Alabama Code §§ 40-10-83 (1975) et seq. may redeem the property pursuant to those statutes within five (5) days after the appropriate Order on Final Hearing is issued.  FAILURE TO REDEEM THE PROPERTY AND PRESENT PROOF OF REDEMPTION TO THE CIRCUIT COURT WITHIN THE 5-DAY PERIOD MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION.
The address of the Birmingham Land Bank Authority is City Hall, 710 North 20th St., Birmingham, AL 35203. The Birmingham Land Bank Authority may be contacted care of Jake A. Kiser at (205) 918-5037.
IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED by the undersigned Clerk of Court that publication of this notice be made once a week for three consecutive weeks in The Birmingham Times, a newspaper of general circulation in Jefferson County, Alabama, and that all persons to whom this notice is addressed and any and all persons claiming any title to, interest in, or lien or encumbrance on the above-described land or any part thereof are hereby directed to plead, answer or otherwise respond to the Complaint in this case before the hearing date or a judgment by default may be rendered against them it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint.
Jacqueline Anderson Smith, Circuit Clerk
BT08/22/2024
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CASE NO. CV-2024-902391
THE BIRMINGHAM LAND BANK AUTHORITY, a Public Corporation,
NOTICE OF FINAL HEARING BY PUBLICATION
TO: HEARTWOOD 88 LLC; CECILE SCOTT BYRD; SHELIA W. BROWN; CITY OF BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA; J.T. SMALLWOOD, JEFFERSON COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR; AND JEFFERSON COUNTY, ALABAMA, and any and all other unknown heirs, claimants or interested parties claiming any right, title, estate, lien, or interest in the real estate described herein,
TAKE NOTICE that on June 14, 2024, the Birmingham Land Bank Authority filed the above-styled Complaint and the Land Bank asserts that it has recorded notice of a pending quiet title and foreclosure action in the Probate Court of Jefferson County, Alabama concerning the rights and/or interests in the following real property:
North 150 feet of Lot 21, according to the Survey of Anderton Addition as recorded in Map Book 17, Page 8, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Jefferson County, Alabama.
It appears said legal is the same as that certain legal described in Instrument Number 2017074293 as follows: N 150 FT LOT 21 ANDERTON ADD
and assigned Parcel ID No. 29-00-08-1-034-004.000
ANY PERSON WITH A PROPERTY INTEREST IN THE ABOVE PROPERTY IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THEY MAY LOSE SUCH INTEREST, IF ANY, AS A RESULT OF THE ABOVE-REFERENCED QUIET TITLE AND FORECLOSURE ACTION. The final hearing on this quiet title and foreclosure action is hereby set for October 11, 2024, in Room 340, Jefferson County Courthouse in Birmingham, Alabama at 9:00 a.m. The judgment of the Court may result in title to the property vesting in the Birmingham Land Bank Authority.  Any person who proves to the Court’s satisfaction a right to redeem the property pursuant to Alabama Code §§ 40-10-73 (1975) et seq. or Alabama Code §§ 40-10-83 (1975) et seq. may redeem the property pursuant to those statutes within five (5) days after the appropriate Order on Final Hearing is issued.  FAILURE TO REDEEM THE PROPERTY AND PRESENT PROOF OF REDEMPTION TO THE CIRCUIT COURT WITHIN THE 5-DAY PERIOD MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION.
The address of the Birmingham Land Bank Authority is City Hall, 710 North 20th St., Birmingham, AL 35203. The Birmingham Land Bank Authority may be contacted care of Jake A. Kiser at (205) 918-5037.
IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED by the undersigned Clerk of Court that publication of this notice be made once a week for three consecutive weeks in The Birmingham Times, a newspaper of general circulation in Jefferson County, Alabama, and that all persons to whom this notice is addressed and any and all persons claiming any title to, interest in, or lien or encumbrance on the above-described land or any part thereof are hereby directed to plead, answer or otherwise respond to the Complaint in this case before the hearing date or a judgment by default may be rendered against them it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint.
Jacqueline Anderson Smith, Circuit Clerk
BT08/22/2024
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CASE NO. 01-CV-2023-904364
THE BIRMINGHAM LAND BANK AUTHORITY, a Public Corporation,
NOTICE OF FINAL HEARING BY PUBLICATION
TO: SHIRLEY ANN FORDHAM; MARION MOORE; SEVETRA G. FORDHAM; J.T. SMALLWOOD, JEFFERSON COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR; JEFFERSON COUNTY, ALABAMA; CITY OF BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA; and any and all other unknown heirs, claimants or interested parties claiming any right, title, estate, lien, or interest in the real estate described herein,
TAKE NOTICE that on December 4, the Birmingham Land Bank Authority filed the above-styled Complaint and the Land Bank asserts that it has recorded notice of a pending quiet title and foreclosure action in the Probate Court of Jefferson County, Alabama concerning the rights and/or interests in the following real property:
That Parcel of real property located at 1212 15th Court North, Birmingham, Alabama 35204 and having a legal description of:
Lot 16 in Hewitt & Bradley Survey, a map of which Survey is recorded in Map Book 6, Page 85, in the Office
of the Judge of Probate of Jefferson County, Alabama, a/k/a LOT 16 HEWETT & BRADLEY SUR
ANY PERSON WITH A PROPERTY INTEREST IN THE ABOVE PROPERTY IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THEY MAY LOSE SUCH INTEREST, IF ANY, AS A RESULT OF THE ABOVE-REFERENCED QUIET TITLE AND FORECLOSURE ACTION. The final hearing on this quiet title and foreclosure action is hereby set for September 6, 2024, at 9:30 a.m., in Room 670, 716 Richard Arrington, Jr. Boulevard North, Birmingham, Alabama. The judgment of the Court may result in title to the property vesting in the Birmingham Land Bank Authority.  Any person who proves to the Court’s satisfaction a right to redeem the property pursuant to Alabama Code §§ 40-10-73 (1975) et seq. or Alabama Code §§ 40-10-83 (1975) et seq. may redeem the property pursuant to those statutes within five (5) days after the appropriate Order on Final Hearing is issued.  FAILURE TO REDEEM THE PROPERTY AND PRESENT PROOF OF REDEMPTION TO THE CIRCUIT COURT WITHIN THE 5-DAY PERIOD MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION.
The address of the Birmingham Land Bank Authority is City Hall, 710 North 20th Street, Birmingham, AL 35203. The Birmingham Land Bank Authority may be contacted care of Greer B. Mallette, Christian & Small,
LLP, 505 20th Street North, Suite 1800 Financial Center, Birmingham, AL 35203 at (205) 795-6588.
IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED by the undersigned Clerk of Court that publication of this notice be made once a week for three consecutive weeks in The Birmingham Times, a newspaper of general circulation in Jefferson County, Alabama, and that all persons to whom this notice is addressed and any and all persons claiming any title to, interest in, or lien or encumbrance on the above-described land or any part thereof are hereby directed to plead, answer or otherwise respond to the Complaint in this case before the hearing date or a judgment by default may be rendered against them it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint.
Dated this the 5th day of August, 2024.
Jacqueline Anderson Smith, Circuit Clerk
BT08/22/2024
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CASE NO. 01-CV-2023-904656
THE BIRMINGHAM LAND BANK AUTHORITY, a Public Corporation,
NOTICE OF FINAL HEARING BY PUBLICATION
TO: THOMAS E. BADDLEY, AS RECEIVER FOR COMMUNITY HOME BANC, INC.; J.T. SMALLWOOD; JEFFERSON COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR; JEFFERSON COUNTY, ALABAMA; CITY OF BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA; and any and all other unknown heirs, claimants or interested parties claiming any right, title, estate, lien, or interest in the real estate described herein,
TAKE NOTICE that on May 2, 2024, the Birmingham Land Bank Authority filed the above-styled Amended Complaint and the Land Bank asserts that it has recorded notice of a pending quiet title and foreclosure action in the Probate Court of Jefferson County, Alabama concerning the rights and/or interests in the following real property:
That parcel of real property located at 1009 12th Street North, Birmingham, Alabama 35204 and having a legal description of:
The southern 22.2 feet of the western 125 feet of Lot 4 in Block 6 of J.M. Ware Survey as recorded in Map Book 3 on Page 120, in the Probate Office of Jefferson County, Alabama,  and a strip 4 feet in width adjoining same on the South, said strip being more particularly described as follows: Commence at the intersection of the Northwesterly line of 10th Avenue North as now located with the Northeasterly line of North 12th Street as now located and run thence Northwesterly along the East line of North 12th Street 196 feet to the Point of Beginning; thence continue Northwesterly along the Northeasterly line of 12th Street 4 feet; thence in a Northeasterly direction parallel with 10th Avenue North 125 feet; thence Southeasterly parallel with 12th Street 4 feet; thence Southwesterly parallel with 10th Avenue North 125 feet to the Point of Beginning, a/k/a PART OF LOT 4 BLK 6 J M WARE DESC AS COMM AT NE INT 10TH AVE N & 12TH ST N THENCE NW 196 FT S TO POB THENCE NE 125 FT S NW 22 FT S SW 125 FT S SE 22FT S TO BEG SECT 35 TWSP 17 S RANGE 3W
ANY PERSON WITH A PROPERTY INTEREST IN THE ABOVE PROPERTY IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THEY MAY LOSE SUCH INTEREST, IF ANY, AS A RESULT OF THE ABOVE-REFERENCED QUIET TITLE AND FORECLOSURE ACTION. The final hearing on this quiet title and foreclosure action is hereby set for September 6, 2024, at 9:30 a.m., in Room 670, 716 Richard Arrington, Jr. Boulevard North, Jefferson County Courthouse, Birmingham, Alabama 35203. The judgment of the Court may result in title to the property vesting in the Birmingham Land Bank Authority. Any person who proves to the Court’s satisfaction a right to redeem the property pursuant to Alabama Code 40-10-73 (1975) et seq. or Alabama Code 40-10-83 (1975) et seq. may redeem the property pursuant to those statutes within five (5) days after the appropriate Order on Final Hearing is issued. FAILURE TO REDEEM THE PROPERTY AND PRESENT PROOF OF REDEMPTION TO THE CIRCUIT COURT WITHIN THE 5-DAY PERIOD MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION.
The address of the Birmingham Land Bank Authority is City Hall, 710 North 20th Street, Birmingham, AL 35203. The Birmingham Land Bank Authority may be contacted care of  Greer B. Mallette, Christian & Small,
LLP, 505 20th Street North, Suite 1800 Financial Center, Birmingham, AL 35203 at (205) 795-6588.
IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED by the undersigned Clerk of Court that publication of this notice be made once a week for three consecutive weeks in The Birmingham Times, a newspaper of general circulation in Jefferson County, Alabama, and that all persons to whom this notice is addressed and any and all persons claiming any title to, interest in, or lien or encumbrance on the above-described land or any part thereof are hereby directed to plead, answer or otherwise respond to the Complaint in this case before the hearing date or a judgment by default may be rendered against them it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint.
Dated this the 5th day of August, 2024.
Jacqueline Anderson Smith, Circuit Clerk
BT08/22/2024
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CASE NO. CV-2024-902401
THE BIRMINGHAM LAND BANK AUTHORITY, a Public Corporation,
NOTICE OF FINAL HEARING BY PUBLICATION
TO: ESTATE OF JOE E. CULWELL; PHYLLIS CULWELL; DEREK A. WHITE; ALBERT SMITH; SHEILAH SMITH; ESTATE OF JAMES KNIGHT; JAN KNIGHT; ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE; CITY OF BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA; J.T. SMALLWOOD, JEFFERSON COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR; AND JEFFERSON COUNTY, ALABAMA, and any and all other unknown heirs, claimants or interested parties claiming any right, title, estate, lien, or interest in the real estate described herein,
TAKE NOTICE that on June 17, 2024, the Birmingham Land Bank Authority filed the above-styled Complaint and the Land Bank asserts that it has recorded notice of a pending quiet title and foreclosure action in the Probate Court of Jefferson County, Alabama concerning the rights and/or interests in the following real property:
Lot 15, Block 133, according to the Survey at East Lake, as recorded in Map Book 1, Page 217, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Jefferson County, Alabama.
It appears said legal is the same as that certain legal described in Instrument Number 2017074288 as follows: LOT 15 BLK 133 EAST LAKE
and assigned Parcel ID No. 23-00-11-3-008-028.000
ANY PERSON WITH A PROPERTY INTEREST IN THE ABOVE PROPERTY IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THEY MAY LOSE SUCH INTEREST, IF ANY, AS A RESULT OF THE ABOVE-REFERENCED QUIET TITLE AND FORECLOSURE ACTION.  The final hearing on this quiet title and foreclosure action is hereby set for October 11, 2024, in Room 340, Jefferson County Courthouse in Birmingham, Alabama at 9:00 a.m. The judgment of the Court may result in title to the property vesting in the Birmingham Land Bank Authority.  Any person who proves to the Court’s satisfaction a right to redeem the property pursuant to Alabama Code §§ 40-10-73 (1975) et seq. or Alabama Code §§ 40-10-83 (1975) et seq. may redeem the property pursuant to those statutes within five (5) days after the appropriate Order on Final Hearing is issued.  FAILURE TO REDEEM THE PROPERTY AND PRESENT PROOF OF REDEMPTION TO THE CIRCUIT COURT WITHIN THE 5-DAY PERIOD MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION.
The address of the Birmingham Land Bank Authority is City Hall, 710 North 20th St., Birmingham, AL 35203. The Birmingham Land Bank Authority may be contacted care of Jake A. Kiser at (205) 918-5037.
IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED by the undersigned Clerk of Court that publication of this notice be made once a week for three consecutive weeks in The Birmingham Times, a newspaper of general circulation in Jefferson County, Alabama, and that all persons to whom this notice is addressed and any and all persons claiming any title to, interest in, or lien or encumbrance on the above-described land or any part thereof are hereby directed to plead, answer or otherwise respond to the Complaint in this case before the hearing date or a judgment by default may be rendered against them it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint.
Jacqueline Anderson Smith, Circuit Clerk
BT08/22/2024
______________________________
CASE NO. CV-2024-902732.00
THE BIRMINGHAM LAND BANK AUTHORITY, a Public Corporation,
NOTICE OF FINAL HEARING BY PUBLICATION
TO: PLEDGED PROPERTY II LLC; LITTON LOAN SERVICING LP; J.J. BAKER and UNKNOWN HEIRS OF J.J. BAKER; GWENDOLYN TREADWELL and UNKNOWN HEIRS OF GWENDOLYN TREADWELL; MUTUAL SAVINGS CREDIT UNION; STATE OF ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE; J.T. SMALLWOOD, JEFFERSON COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR; JEFFERSON COUNTY, ALABAMA; CITY OF BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA; and any and all other unknown heirs, claimants or interested parties claiming any right, title, estate, lien, or interest in the real estate described herein,
TAKE NOTICE that on July 11, 2024, the Birmingham Land Bank Authority filed the above-styled Complaint, and the Land Bank asserts that it has recorded notice of a pending quiet title and foreclosure action in the Probate Court of Jefferson County, Alabama concerning the rights and/or interests in the following real property:
Property Address: 2037 Fayette Avenue, Birmingham, Alabama 35208
Tax Parcel ID No.: 01-22-00-32-4-033-007.000
Legal Description: Lot 1, Block 10, according to the survey of Owenton Ensley Highlands, as recorded in Map Book 14, Page 11, in the Probate Office of Jefferson County, Alabama, situated in Jefferson County, Alabama (It appears said legal is the same as that certain legal described in Instrument No. 2024052992 as follows: LOT 1 BLK 10 OWENTON-ENSLEY HLDS)
ANY PERSON WITH A PROPERTY INTEREST IN THE ABOVE PROPERTY IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THEY MAY LOSE SUCH INTEREST, IF ANY, AS A RESULT OF THE ABOVE-REFERENCED QUIET TITLE AND FORECLOSURE ACTION. The final hearing on this quiet title and foreclosure action is hereby set for October 11, 2024, in Room 670, Jefferson County Courthouse in Birmingham, Alabama at 9:30 A.M. The judgment of the Court may result in title to the property vesting in the Birmingham Land Bank Authority. Any person who proves to the Court’s satisfaction a right to redeem the property pursuant to Alabama Code §§ 40-10-73 (1975) et seq. or Alabama Code §§ 40-10-83 (1975) et seq. may redeem the property pursuant to those statutes within five (5) days after the appropriate Order on Final Hearing is issued. FAILURE TO REDEEM THE PROPERTY AND PRESENT PROOF OF REDEMPTION TO THE CIRCUIT COURT WITHIN THE 5-DAY PERIOD MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION.
The address of the Birmingham Land Bank Authority is City Hall, 710 North 20th St., Birmingham, AL 35203. The Birmingham Land Bank Authority may be contacted care of Cherokee W. Wooley, Law Offices of Thomas J. Skinner, IV, LLC, at (205) 802-2545.
IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED by the undersigned Clerk of Court that publication of this notice be made once a week for three consecutive weeks in The Birmingham Times, a newspaper of general circulation in Jefferson County, Alabama, and that all persons to whom this notice is addressed and any and all persons claiming any title to, interest in, or lien or encumbrance on the above-described land or any part thereof are hereby directed to plead, answer, or otherwise respond to the Complaint in this cause before the hearing date or a judgment by default may be rendered against them it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint.
Jacqueline Anderson Smith, Circuit Clerk
BT08/22/2024
______________________________
CASE NO. CV-2024-902670
THE BIRMINGHAM LAND BANK AUTHORITY, a Public Corporation,
NOTICE OF FINAL HEARING BY PUBLICATION
TO: JESSE B. LEONARD AND HIS HEIRS AND DEVISEES (DECEASED); FREDDIE MAE LEONARD AND HER HEIRS AND DEVISEES (DECEASED); GAY L. SMITH; ARLENE LEONARD; ROMELIA ROBERTSON; ANTHONY B. LEONARD (DECEASED) AND HIS HEIRS AND DEVISEES; WILLIAM EARL WILLIAMS; STRAKCRAFT CUSTOM EXT., INC.; MIDLAND FUNDING, LLC; CAPITAL ONE BANK (USA), N.A.; J.T. SMALLWOOD, JEFFERSON COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR, JEFFERSON COUNTY, ALABAMA; CITY OF BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA; and any and all other unknown heirs, claimants or interested parties claiming any right, title, estate, lien, or interest in the real estate described herein,
The Birmingham Land Bank Authority (the “Land Bank”), a public corporation organized under the laws of the State of Alabama, filed a Petition to Quiet Title and Foreclosure (the “Petition”) on the property described herein on July 3, 2024, in the Circuit
Court of Jefferson County and recorded or will record a Notice of Pending Quiet Title and Foreclosure Action (the “Lis Pendens”)
in the Probate Court of Jefferson County of Jefferson County, Alabama on August 2, 2024. Notice is hereby given that a final
hearing was set to be heard September 12, 2024 at 10:00 A.M. at the Jefferson County Courthouse, Courtroom 340, 716 Richard Arrington, Jr. Boulevard, North, Birmingham, Alabama 35203. The property that is the subject of this  hearing is
described as follows:
Property Address: 400 63rd Street North, Birmingham, Alabama 35212
Tax ID No.: 23-00-16-4-001-009.000a/k/a 0123001640010090000000
Legal Description: Lot 3 and the East 1/2 of Lot 2, in Block 1, according to the Survey of Pine Grove as recorded in Map Book 14, Page 74, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Jefferson County, Alabama a/k/a LOT 3 & E 1/2 OF LOT 2 BLK 1 PINE
GROVE.
ANY PERSON WITH A PROPERTY INTEREST IN THE ABOVE PROPERTY IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THEY MAY LOSE SUCH INTEREST, IF ANY, AS A RESULT OF THE ABOVE-REFERENCED QUIET TITLE AND FORECLOSURE ACTION. Any person who proves to the Court’s satisfaction a right to redeem the property pursuant to Alabama Code §§ 40-10-73 (1975) et seq. or Alabama Code §§ 40-10-83 (1975) et seq. may redeem the property pursuant to those statutes within five (5) days after the appropriate Order on Final Hearing is issued. FAILURE TO REDEEM THE PROPERTY AND PRESENT PROOF OF REDEMPTION TO THE CIRCUIT COURT WITHIN THE 5-DAY PERIOD MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION.
The address of the Birmingham Land Bank Authority is City Hall, 710 North 20th St., Birmingham, AL 35203 and may be contacted care of the City of Birmingham Law Department at 205-254-2117.
IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED by the undersigned Clerk of Court that publication of this notice be made once a week for three consecutive weeks in The Birmingham Times, a newspaper of general circulation in Jefferson County, Alabama, and that all persons to whom this notice is addressed and any and all persons claiming any title to, interest in, or lien or encumbrance on the above-described land or any part thereof are hereby directed to plead, answer, or otherwise respond to the Complaint in this cause before the hearing date or a judgment by default may be rendered against them it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint.
Signed this the 12th day of August, 2024.
Jacqueline Anderson Smith, Circuit Clerk
BT08/22/2024
________________________________
CASE NO. CV-2023-904570
THE BIRMINGHAM LAND BANK AUTHORITY, a Public Corporation,
NOTICE OF FINAL HEARING BY PUBLICATION
TO: JUDITH ANDREWS; DARYL O. MALONE; DEBRA R. MALONE; J.T. SMALLWOOD, JEFFERSON COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR; JEFFERSON COUNTY, ALABAMA; CITY OF BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA; and any and all other unknown heirs, claimants or interested parties claiming any right, title, estate, lien, or interest in the real estate described herein,
TAKE NOTICE that on December 18, 2023, the Birmingham Land Bank Authority filed the above-styled Complaint and the Land Bank asserts that it has recorded notice of a pending quiet title and foreclosure action in the Probate Court of Jefferson County, Alabama concerning the rights and/or interests in the following real property:
That parcel of real property located at 1011 12th Street North, Birmingham, Alabama 35204
The West 125 feet of Lot 4, Block 6, according to the Survey of J.M. Ware Estate, survey of which is shown in Deed Volume 158, Page 131, in the Office of the Judge of Probate of Jefferson County, Alabama, except the South 25 feet thereof, a/k/a PART OF LOT 4 BLK 6 JM WARE DESC AS COMM AT NE INT 10TH AVE N & 12TH ST N THENCE NW 218 FT S TO POB THENCE NE 125 FT S NW 53 FT S SW 125 FT S SE 53 FT S TO BEG
ANY PERSON WITH A PROPERTY INTEREST IN THE ABOVE PROPERTY IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THEY MAY LOSE SUCH INTEREST, IF ANY, AS A RESULT OF THE ABOVE-REFERENCED QUIET TITLE AND FORECLOSURE ACTION. The final hearing on this quiet title and foreclosure action is hereby set for October 7, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. in Room 360, 716 Richard Arrington, Jr. Boulevard North, Jefferson County Courthouse, Birmingham, Alabama 35203. The judgment of the Court may result in title to the property vesting in the Birmingham Land Bank Authority.  Any person who proves to the Court’s satisfaction a right to redeem the property pursuant to Alabama Code §§ 40-10-73 (1975) et seq. or Alabama Code §§ 40-10-83 (1975) et seq. may redeem the property pursuant to those statutes within five (5) days after the appropriate Order on Final Hearing is issued.  FAILURE TO REDEEM THE PROPERTY AND PRESENT PROOF OF REDEMPTION TO THE CIRCUIT COURT WITHIN THE 5-DAY PERIOD MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION.
The address of the Birmingham Land Bank Authority is City Hall, 710 North 20th Street, Birmingham, AL 35203. The Birmingham Land Bank Authority may be contacted care of Greer B. Mallette, Christian & Small, LLP, 505 20th Street North, Suite 1800
Financial Center, Birmingham, AL, 35203 at (205) 795-6588.
IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED by the undersigned Clerk of Court that publication of this notice be made once a week for three consecutive weeks in The Birmingham Times, a newspaper of general circulation in Jefferson County, Alabama, and that all persons to whom this notice is addressed and any and all persons claiming any title to, interest in, or lien or encumbrance on the above-described land or any part thereof are hereby directed to plead, answer or otherwise respond to the Complaint in this case before the hearing date or a judgment by default may be rendered against them it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint.
Dated this the 19th day of August, 2024.
Jacqueline Anderson Smith, Circuit Clerk
BT08/22/2024
______________________________
NOTICE OF COMPLETION
In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, notice is hereby given that Williford Orman Construction LLC , Contractor, has completed the Contract for Construction of New Playground for Fayetteville Elementary School at Talladega County for the State of Alabama and the County of Talladega, Owner(s), and have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify Lathan Associates Architects PC
Williford Orman Construction LLC
Contractor
PO Box 1985
Pelham, AL 35124
BT08/22/2024
______________________________
NOTICE OF COMPLETION
In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, notice is hereby given that Williford Orman Construction LLC , Contractor, has completed the Contract for Construction of New Playground for Stemley Road Elementary School at Talladega County for the State of Alabama and the County of Talladega, Owner(s), and have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify Lathan Associates Architects PC
Williford Orman Construction LLC
Contractor
PO Box 1985
Pelham, AL 35124
BT08/22/2024
______________________________
NOTICE OF COMPLETION
In accordance with section 39-1 as amended by H275 Code of Alabama,  1997, notice is
hereby given that Lower Alabama Heating Cooling and Refrigeration, LLC has completed
Fire Stations (14) Owner-Furnished HVAC Equipment Installation 2221  For the City of
Birmingham and have made request for final settlement of said contract.
Lower Alabama Heating Cooling and Refrigeration, LLC
95 Massey Street
Chatom, Alabama 36518
BT08/22/2024
______________________________
NOTICE OF COMPLETION
In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended, notice is hereby given that J.T. Harrison Construction Co., Inc., Contractor,  5870 Charlie Shirley Road, Northport, AL 35473, has completed the Contract for the Renovation of WP2 GME Wellness Center Renovation at 1813 6th Ave. S., Birmingham, AL 35233 for The Board of Trustees of the University of Alabama for the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Owner, and has made request for final settlement of said Contract.  All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify Williams Blackstock Architects, Architect.
BT08/22/2024
______________________________
NOTICE OF COMPLETION
In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended, notice is hereby given that J.T. Harrison Construction Co., Inc., Contractor, 5870 Charlie Shirley Road, Northport, AL 35473, has completed the Contract for the Renovation of North Pavilion 6th Floor Heart and Vascular Center Labs 5 & 7 Equipment Replacement and Renovation at 1802 6th Avenue S., Birmingham, AL 35233 for The Board of Trustees of the University of Alabama for the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Owner, and has made request for final settlement of said Contract.  All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify Birchfield Penuel & Associates, Architect.
BT08/22/2024
______________________________
NOTICE OF COMPLETION
In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, notice is hereby given that Williford Orman Construction LLC , Contractor, has completed the Contract for Construction of New Home Bleachers for Chelsea High School Football Stadium at Chelsea, AL for the State of Alabama and the County of Shelby, Owner(s), and have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify Lathan Associates Architects.
Williford Orman Construction LLC,
Contractor
PO Box 1985
Pelham, AL 35124
08/22/2024
______________________________
NOTICE OF COMPLETION
In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, notice is hereby given that Adkins and Kimbrough Mechanical, LLC, Contractor has completed the Contract for Equipment for Hall Kent Elementary School Rooftop Replacement at 213 Hall Ave., Birmingham, AL 35209 for the State of Alabama and the City of Homewood, Owner(s), and have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify Bernhard TME, LLC.
Adkins and Kimbrough Mechanical, LLC
4415 Turin Drive
Bessemer, AL 35020
08/22/2024
______________________________
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS
The Birmingham Airport Authority is requesting Statements of Qualifications (SOQs) from professional service firms (Respondents) for civil engineering services associated with the Runway Intersection Drainage Improvements project. SOQs and Project Proposals will be received by August 31st, 2024, at 2:00 PM local time. Copies of the RFQ, including detailed submission instructions and requirements, can be obtained by visiting the airport’s website at https://www.flybirmingham.com/about-bhm/doing-business-at-bhm/ or via an email request sent to eseoane@flybhm.com.  A non-mandatory pre-submittal conference will be held on August 15th, 2024, at 2:00 P.M. local time via Zoom.
BT08/22/2024
______________________________
ADVERTISEMENT for BIDDER PRE-QUALIFICATION
And NOTICE of INTENT to RECEIVE BIDS
from PREQUALIFIED BIDDERS
Pre-qualification submittals will be received by the Owner’s Representative/Project Manager, Jeff Orr on behalf of Office of the Chief Facilities Officer, UAB Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the University of Alabama Board of Trustees at UAB Hospital Planning, 2020 University Blvd., Birmingham, AL 35249 until 4:00 PM Central Time, August 30, 2024. The original and two (2) flash drives with duplicates of submittals are required for pre-qualification approval; however, email transmission copies may be transmitted to the UAB Project Manager Jeff Orr at jeorr@uabmc.edu and cc’d to sheywood@ghafari.com and mfreeman@ghafari.com to expedite the review process with a hard-copy of the submittal and two flash drives to be delivered within 24 hours.
UAB Offsite Reprocessing Center
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, Alabama
Project No.: H245003
A. SCOPE OF WORK:
The project consists of a new 8,000 SF prefabricated, owner-provided modular offsite sterile processing building to support UAB’s surgical services.  The scope of work includes site work to support the new modular building, structural foundations, architectural canopies, stairs, and ramps, as well as fire sprinkler and electrical infrastructure to support the new modular building. The construction budget is anticipated to be between $3,000,000 and $3,500,000.
The work will be performed under a single Prime General Contractor who will coordinate the work of this project.  Particular and specific care will be required to coordinate complex shutdowns, limit disturbances and follow strict Infection Controls and Interim Life Safety Measures (ICRA/ILSM) requirements for the protection of patients, family and staff. The Prime General Contractors seeking to be pre-qualified will require experience with similar size and type hospital projects performed in and adjacent to an operating hospital environment and with the implementation and maintenance of infection control measures, interim life safety measures, coordinating shutdowns, and maintaining a clean and organized job site in an operating hospital. The General Contractor must have experience with representative projects as a General Contractor (not as a Construction Manager, Program Manager, etc.)
B. PRIME GENERAL CONTRACTOR BIDDER PRE-QUALIFICATIONS:
Prime General 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 bidders who have completed the pre-qualification process and that have been approved will be eligible to submit a bid for the Project.  Prospective Bidder’s Pre-qualification Package must be received by the Owner’s Project Manager no later than 4:00 PM Central Time, August 30, 2024 after which no further requests will be considered.
Pre-qualification Requirements Information Package may be obtained from the Architect upon letterhead request sent by email or scanned into an email to sheywood@ghafari.com, copy mfreeman@ghafari.com and jeorr@uabmc.edu. Any addenda to the prequalification requirements will be issued to documented prime contractors only.
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, on or about September 06, 2024.
The Owner reserves the right to waive technical errors in applications, extend 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 beginning September 06, 2024:
Architect:
Ghafari Associates
2170 Highland Ave S
Suite 220
Birmingham, AL 35205
Phone:  205-203-4611
Contact: Scott Heywood
C. BIDS BY PRE-QUALIFIED PRIME GENERAL CONTRACTOR BIDDERS
Documents:
Bid documents will be available at the following locations after notice to pre-qualified bidders is given.  Drawings and specifications may be examined at; ALGX Digital Plan Room, http://www.algraphics.com, 2801 5th Ave, South, Birmingham, AL 35233: Dodge Data & Analytics, http://www.construction.com, 2860 S State Hwy 161, Ste 160 #501, Grand Prairie, TX  75052-7361; at the AGC Internet Plan Room, 5000 Grantswood Road Suite 100, Irondale, AL 35210; at the Birmingham Construction Industry Authority, http://www.bcia1.org, 601 37th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35222; and at the Construction Market Data, http://www.cmdgroup.com, 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 26, 2024 at 2:00 PM Central Time at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, UAB Hospital Planning, 2020 University Blvd., Birmingham, Alabama 35294. Bids 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 bids shall be properly identified.
On the date of the bid opening, bids may be hand delivered or received by Express Service mail to the Office of Jeff Orr, Project Manager Facilities and Capital Projects, 2020 Building, 2020 University Blvd, Birmingham, Alabama  35233, until 12:00 noon.  After 12:00 noon of the date of the bid opening, proposals must be hand delivered and presented at the bid opening.  Sealed proposals shall be submitted in triplicate and shall be properly identified.  All proposals received after 2:00 p.m. on September 26, 2024 (the date and time set for the receipt of bids) will be returned unopened.
Nonresident Prime Contractor Bidders:
Under Section 39-3-5, Code of Alabama, 1975, nonresident prime contractor bidders must accompany any written bid documents with a written opinion of an attorney licensed to practice law in such nonresident prime contractor bidder’s state of domicile as to the preferences, if any or none, granted by the law of the state to its own business entities whose principal place of business are in that state in the letting of any or all public contracts. Resident prime contractors in Alabama, as defined in Section 39-2-12, are granted preference over nonresident prime contractors in awarding of contracts in the same manner and to the same extent as provided by the laws of the state of domicile of the nonresident.
Fire Alarm Work:
In accordance with Title 34, Chapter 33A (the ACT), of the Code of Alabama 1975, bidders for fire alarm work of this project, if any, must include with their bid evidence of licensure as required by the ACT by including with the bid submittal a valid State Fire Marshal’s permit.
D. PRE-BID CONFERENCE
A mandatory Pre-Bid Conference is currently scheduled to be held at 1:00 PM CST on September 11, 2024 at UAB Hospital Facilities 2020 Building, 2020 University Blvd., Birmingham, Alabama 35233. It is mandatory that all pre-qualified prime contractor bidders attend the Pre-Bid Conference.
BT08/22/2024
______________________________
ADVERTISEMENT for BIDDER PRE-QUALIFICATION
And NOTICE of INTENT to RECEIVE BIDS
from PREQUALIFIED BIDDERS
Pre-qualification submittals will be received by the Owner’s Representative/Project Manager, Darren Kruty on behalf of Office of the Chief Facilities Officer, UAB Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the University of Alabama Board of Trustees at UAB Hospital Planning, 2020 University Blvd., Birmingham, AL 35249 until 4:00 PM Central Time,
Thursday, September 5, 2024. The original and two (2) flash drives with duplicates of submittals are required for pre-qualification approval; however, email transmission copies may be transmitted to the Project Manager at dkruty@uabmc.edu and copied to rachelh@bparchitects.com to expedite the review process with a hard-copy of the submittal and two flash drives to be delivered within 24 hours.
UAB HOSPITAL – Wallace Tumor Institute
Basement PET/CT
For The
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, Alabama
UAB Project No.: H235013
A. SCOPE OF WORK:
The project consists of the renovation of a 470 SF imaging room which will hold a new PET/CT. To serve the new PET/CT, a 575 SF shell space will be built out to provide Uptake treatment rooms, storage, and a restroom. These new rooms will be constructed with means to shield from radiation. Additionally, an existing 375 SF room will be subdivided to provide a new Mechanical/Equipment room. The scope of work includes, but is not limited to, new partitions, ceilings, finishes, concrete patching, plumbing, fire sprinkler, fire alarm, HVAC, electrical work, and equipment installation coordination. The construction budget is anticipated to be between $750,000 and $1,250,000.
The work will be performed under a single Prime General Contractor who will coordinate the work of this project. Particular and specific care will be required to coordinate complex shutdowns, limit disturbances and follow strict Infection Control and Interim Life Safety Measures (ICRA/ILSM) requirements for the protection of patients, family, and staff. The Prime General Contractors seeking to be pre-qualified will require experience with similar size and type hospital projects performed in and adjacent to an operating hospital environment and with the implementation and maintenance of infection control measures, interim life safety measures, coordinating shutdowns, and maintaining a clean and organized job site in an operating hospital. The General Contractor must have experience with representative projects as a General Contractor (not as a Construction Manager, Program Manager, etc.)
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/perform work for the Project.  Prospective Bidder’s Pre-qualification Package must be received by the Owner’s Project Manager no later than 4:00 PM Central Time, September 5, 2024 after which no further requests will be considered.
Pre-qualification Requirements Information Package may be obtained from the Architect upon letterhead request. Any addendums to the prequalification requirements will be issued to documented prime contractors only.
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, on or about September 17, 2024.
The Owner reserves the right to waive technical errors in applications, extend or abandon the pre-qualification process, should the interests of the Owner appear to be promoted thereby.
Progress Design and Construction Documents:
Prior to the pre-qualification deadline, project progress plans and specifications may be examined at the following location:
Architect:
Birchfield Penuel Architects
2805 Crescent Avenue, Suite 200
Birmingham, Alabama  35209
Ms. Stacy Williams
205-870-1876
C. BIDS BY PRE-QUALIFIED PRIME GENERAL CONTRACTOR BIDDERS
Documents:
After notice to pre-qualified bidders is given, the pre-qualified prime contractor bidders may obtain bid documents from the Architect (see address above) upon deposit of $100.00 per set. The deposit is refundable in full on the first two (2) sets issued to each prime general contractor bidder upon return of documents in reusable condition within ten (10) days after bid opening.  Additional sets for pre-qualified prime contractor bidders, subcontractors, vendors, or dealers may be obtained upon payment of the same deposit.  The deposit for additional sets shall be refunded less the cost of printing, reproduction, handling and distribution, upon return of the documents in reusable condition within ten (10) days after bid opening.
Bid documents will be available at the following locations after notice to pre-qualified bidders is given. Drawings and specifications may be examined at the Office of the Architect; and electronically at ConstructConnect and Dodge Data & Analytics.
Bonds:
A certified check or bid bond payable to the University of Alabama at Birmingham in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000 must accompany the bidder’s proposal. Performance and Statutory Labor and Material Payment Bonds will be required at the signing of the Contract.
Bids:
Bids must be submitted on proposal forms or copies thereof furnished by the Architect. No bid may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids for a period of ninety (90) days. The Owner reserves the right to reject bids if such action is determined to be in the best interest of the Owner. The Owner reserves the right to revoke pre-qualification of any bidder in accordance with Section 39-2-12, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended in 1997 (by Act 97-225). The Bid Date is October 31, 2024 at 2:00 PM Central Time at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, UAB Hospital Planning, 2020 University Blvd., Birmingham, Alabama 35294. Bids 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 bids shall be properly identified.
Proposals may be hand delivered or received by mail on the date of the bid opening at the Office of Darren Kruty, Project Manager Facilities and Capital Projects, 2020 Building, 2020 University Blvd, Birmingham, Alabama 35233, until 12:00 noon.  After 12:00 noon of the date of the bid opening, proposals must be hand delivered and presented at the bid opening. Sealed proposals shall be submitted in triplicate and shall be properly identified. All proposals received after 2:00 p.m. on
October 31, 2024 will be returned unopened.
Fire Alarm Work
In accordance with Title 34, Chapter 33A, of the Code of Alabama 1975, bidders for fire alarm work of this project, if any, must include with their bid, evidence of licensure as required by the act, by including with the bid submittal, a valid State Fire Marshal’s permit.
D. PRE-BID CONFERENCE
A mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held Thursday, October 17, 2024 at 10:00 am at UAB Hospital Facilities 2020 University Blvd., Birmingham, Alabama 35233. It is mandatory that all pre-qualified prime contractor bidders attend the Pre-Bid Conference.
BT08/22/2024
______________________________
ADVERTISEMENT for BIDDER PRE-QUALIFICATION
And NOTICE of INTENT to RECEIVE BIDS
from PREQUALIFIED BIDDERS
Pre-qualification submittals will be received by the Owner’s Representative/Project Manager,
Jeff Orr on behalf of Office of the Chief Facilities Officer, UAB Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the University of Alabama Board of Trustees at UAB Hospital Planning, 2020 University Blvd., Birmingham, AL 35249 until 4:00 PM Central Time, Friday,  August 28, 2024. The original and two (2) flash drives with duplicates of submittals are required for pre-qualification approval; however, email transmission copies may be transmitted to the Project Manager at jeorr@uabmc.edu and copied to rachelh@bparchitects.com to expedite the review process with a hard-copy of the submittal and two flash drives to be delivered within 24 hours.
UAB HOSPITAL – HSROC BRACHYTHERAPY RENOVATION
For The
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, Alabama
UAB Project No.:  H245010
A. SCOPE OF WORK:
The project consists of renovation of a 665 square foot SF imaging room which will serve UAB’s Brachytherapy patients. The scope of work includes, but is not limited to, new partitions, ceilings, finishes, concrete patching, plumbing, fire sprinkler, fire alarm, HVAC, electrical work, and equipment installation coordination. The construction budget is anticipated to be between $400,000 and $500,000.
The work will be performed under a single Prime General Contractor who will coordinate the work of this project. Particular and specific care will be required to coordinate complex shutdowns, limit disturbances and follow strict Infection Control and Interim Life Safety Measures (ICRA/ILSM) requirements for the protection of patients, family, and staff. The Prime General Contractors seeking to be pre-qualified will require experience with similar size and type hospital projects performed in and adjacent to an operating hospital environment and with the implementation and maintenance of infection control measures, interim life safety measures, coordinating shutdowns, and maintaining a clean and organized job site in an operating hospital. The General Contractor must have experience with representative projects as a General Contractor (not as a Construction Manager, Program Manager, etc.)
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/perform work for the Project.  Prospective Bidder’s Pre-qualification Package must be received by the Owner’s Project Manager no later than 4:00 PM Central Time, August 28, 2024 after which no further requests will be considered.
Pre-qualification Requirements Information Package may be obtained from the Architect upon letterhead request. Any addendums to the prequalification requirements will be issued to documented prime contractors only.
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, on or about
August 30, 2024.
The Owner reserves the right to waive technical errors in applications, extend or abandon the pre-qualification process, should the interests of the Owner appear to be promoted thereby.
Progress Design and Construction Documents:
Prior to the pre-qualification deadline, project progress plans and specifications may be examined at the following location:
Architect:
Birchfield Penuel Architects
2805 Crescent Avenue, Suite 200
Birmingham, Alabama  35209
Ms. Stacy Williams
205-870-1876
C.  BIDS BY PRE-QUALIFIED PRIME GENERAL CONTRACTOR BIDDERS
Documents:
After notice to pre-qualified bidders is given, the pre-qualified prime contractor bidders may obtain bid documents from the Architect (see address above) upon deposit of $100.00 per set. The deposit is refundable in full on the first two (2) sets issued to each prime general contractor bidder upon return of documents in reusable condition within ten (10) days after bid opening. Additional sets for pre-qualified prime contractor bidders, subcontractors, vendors, or dealers may be obtained upon payment of the same deposit. The deposit for additional sets shall be refunded less the cost of printing, reproduction, handling and distribution, upon return of the documents in reusable condition within ten (10) days after bid opening.
Bid documents will be available at the following locations after notice to pre-qualified bidders is given. Drawings and specifications may be examined at the Office of the Architect; and electronically at ConstructConnect and Dodge Data & Analytics.
Bonds:
A certified check or bid bond payable to the University of Alabama at Birmingham in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000 must accompany the bidder’s proposal. Performance and Statutory Labor and Material Payment Bonds will be required at the signing of the Contract.
Bids:
Bids must be submitted on proposal forms or copies thereof furnished by the Architect. No bid may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids for a period of ninety (90) days. The Owner reserves the right to reject bids if such action is determined to be in the best interest of the Owner. The Owner reserves the right to revoke pre-qualification of any bidder in accordance with Section 39-2-12, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended in 1997 (by Act 97-225). The Bid Date is October 17, 2024 at 2:00 PM Central Time at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, UAB Hospital Planning, 2020 University Blvd., Birmingham, Alabama 35294. Bids 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 bids shall be properly identified.
Proposals may be hand delivered or received by mail on the date of the bid opening at the Office of Jeffry Orr, Project Manager Facilities and Capital Projects, 2020 Building, 2020 University Blvd, Birmingham, Alabama 35233, until 12:00 noon. After 12:00 noon of the date of the bid opening, proposals must be hand delivered and presented at the bid opening. Sealed proposals shall be submitted in triplicate and shall be properly identified. All proposals received after 2:00 p.m. on October 17, 2024 will be returned unopened.
Fire Alarm Work
In accordance with Title 34, Chapter 33A, of the Code of Alabama 1975, bidders for fire alarm work of this project, if any, must include with their bid, evidence of licensure as required by the act, by including with the bid submittal, a valid State Fire Marshal’s permit.
D.  PRE-BID CONFERENCE
A mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held Friday, September 27, 2024 at 10:00 am at UAB Hospital Facilities, 2020 University Blvd., Birmingham, Alabama 35233. It is mandatory that all pre-qualified prime contractor bidders attend the Pre-Bid Conference.
BT08/22/2024
_______________________________
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
THE WATER WORKS BOARD OF
THE CITY OF BIRMINGHAM
SARDIS ROAD REINFORCEMENT
Project Number(s):  P.04209
Capital Budget Number(s):  1D & 1E
Sealed Bids for a water main reinforcement project will be received by The Water Works Board of the City of Birmingham, System Development Department, 3600 First Avenue North, Birmingham, Alabama until 9:00 a.m. local time on Thursday, September 5, 2024. The Sealed Bids will be opened and read at 10:00 a.m. local time on Thursday, September 5, 2024, by System Development Department staff in the System Development Conference Room on the Second Floor of the Main Campus Building located at 3600 First Avenue, North in Birmingham, Alabama. Each Prospective Bidder will be able to listen to the Bid Opening via conference call [Number: 1-888-278-0296 / Access Code: 2875407]. Bids received after 9:00 a.m. local time on date aforementioned will be rejected and returned unopened.
The Work consists of, but is not limited to, the installation of approximately 8,730’ of 12” DICL “Zinc Coated” pipe; 120’ of 8” DICL “Zinc Coated” pipe; 510’ of 16” HDPE pipe (carrier pipe) at creek crossing; 3 water services; and other miscellaneous associated items as necessary to complete the Work along Sardis Road, located in unincorporated Jefferson County, Alabama.
This project is supported, in whole or in part, by Federal Award #SLFRP 1176, awarded to Jefferson County by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.
Bids shall be based on unit price items and lump sum items as indicated on the Bid Form
(Section 00410).
Bidding Documents may be examined at the office of the Manager – System Development Department, The Water Works Board of the City of Birmingham, 3600 First Avenue, North, Birmingham, AL 35222.
Bidders may obtain one (1) complete set of Bidding Documents from the office of the Manager -System Development Department, The Water Works Board of the City of Birmingham. Partial sets of Bidding Documents will not be available to any Bidder. Neither the OWNER nor the ENGINEER will be responsible for full or partial sets of Bidding Documents, including any addenda, obtained from other sources. No Bidder may withdraw or alter his bid within ninety (90) calendar days after the actual date of the Bid Opening.
A Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held at 10:00 a.m. local time on Thursday, August 22, 2024, in the Meter Department Conference Room, 1st Floor Main Office Building (3600 1st Avenue North). All Prospective Bidders are required to attend the Pre-Bid Conference. The purpose of the Pre-Bid Conference is to raise questions pertaining to the Bidding Documents and Contract Documents and for the OWNER or its representatives to clarify any points. Bids will NOT BE ACCEPTED from any Prospective Bidder who does not attend the Pre-Bid Conference via conference call. HUB Program Acknowledgement (HUB Form 1), HUB Compliance Form (HUB Form 2), HUB Resource Engagement Form (HUB Form 3), HUB Subcontractor Performance Form (HUB Form 5) and HUB Subcontractor Utilization Form (HUB Form 6) of Section 00451 HUB Program must be submitted at the Bid Opening as shown above.
Each Prospective Bidder is required to visit the site(s) at which the Work is to be performed. The OWNER will not conduct a site visit with the Prospective Bidders.
Each Bid shall be accompanied by a certified check or Bid Bond in the amount of five percent (5%) of the bid not to exceed $10,000.00 in the form and subject to conditions provided for in Section 00435, Bid Bond.
The Successful Bidder will be required to furnish a Performance Bond and a Labor & Material Payment Bond each in an amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Award.
Bidders shall comply with all statutory requirements in accordance with the Instruction to Bidders.  Bids will only be received from CONTRACTORS who are licensed by the State of Alabama.
Contract time of commencement and completion will be in accordance with the Agreement.
The Water Works Board of the City of Birmingham (“BWWB”) has adopted a voluntary Historically Underutilized Business (“HUB”) Program designed to encourage the participation of HUB firms in construction projects. To that end, the BWWB will never exclude any firm from participation in, deny any person benefits of, or otherwise discriminate in connection with the award and performance of BWWB contracts based on social or economic status. Historically Underutilized Business (HUB): a business formed for the purpose of making a profit and is at least 51% owned, operated and/or controlled by one or more American citizens or permanent resident aliens who are a: Minority Business Enterprise (MBE); Women Business Enterprise (WBE); or Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) [herein sometimes collectively referred to as a HUB].
It is the intent of the BWWB to foster competition among contractors, suppliers and vendors that will result in better quality and more economical services for the BWWB. Under this program, the BWWB has established a goal of 30% participation of HUB firms for services required for BWWB construction projects. The BWWB’s stated goal will not be the determining factor in construction contract awards; rather bidders must demonstrate compliance with the Good Faith Efforts, more particularly outlined in the HUB Program, toward meeting said goal.
Failure on the part of a bidder to fully submit the information required herein may be considered by the BWWB in evaluating whether the bidder is responsive to bid requirements.
Alabama Code §31-13-9 (1975) provides that as a condition for the award of any Contract by The Water Works Board of the City of Birmingham (“BWWB”), a business entity or employer that employs one or more employees within the State of Alabama shall provide documentation of enrollment in the E-Verify program.
Each Prospective Bidder must read and acknowledge compliance with Section 00200a ARPA Federal Award Terms and Conditions. The compliance acknowledgement must be complete in its entirety and must be included with the Prospective Bidder’s Bid (NO EXCEPTIONS).
Each Prospective Bidder must read and acknowledge compliance with Section 00200b ARPA Civil Rights Certification Requirements. The compliance acknowledgement must be complete in its entirety and must be included with the Prospective Bidder’s Bid (NO EXCEPTIONS).
Each Prospective Bidder must read and acknowledge compliance with Section 00200c ARPA Lobbying Certification / Disclosure. The compliance acknowledgement must be complete in its entirety and must be included with the Prospective Bidder’s Bid (NO EXCEPTIONS).
Each Prospective Bidder must complete Section 00200d Certification Regarding Debarment. The Certification must be complete in its entirety and must be included with the Prospective Bidder’s
Bid (NO EXCEPTIONS).
Each Prospective Bidder must complete Section 00200e Certification Regarding EEO Requirements.  The Certification must be complete in its entirety and must be included with the Prospective Bidder’s Bid (NO EXCEPTIONS).
Each Prospective Bidder must complete Section 00200f Certification Regarding AIS Requirements.  The Certification must be complete in its entirety and must be included with the Prospective Bidder’s Bid (NO EXCEPTIONS).
Each Prospective Bidder must comply with Section 00452 Non-Discrimination Policy, while conducting business or participating in events or activities for the OWNER. Each Prospective
Bidder shall maintain an environment free of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation at all times.
Each Prospective Bidder must read, understand, and adhere to the requirements of Section 00740 Wage Determination Schedule relative to the minimum prevailing wage rates mandated by the applicable state labor department or other authority having jurisdiction (NO EXCEPTIONS). Each Prospective Bidder is required to make sure his or her Subcontractor(s) understand the minimum prevailing wage rates for the work location.
Each Prospective Bidder must read and provide documentation relative to the “Request for Company Product and Service Information Letter” and complete the “EEO Report Form” document for the corporation, partnership, joint venture, etc. submitting a bid included at the end of the Section 00200 Instruction to Bidders. These two (2) items must be included with the Prospective Bidder’s Bid [Section 00200g and Section 00200h].
Each Prospective Bidder shall read and understand the Alabama Department of Revenue’s (ADOR’s) sales and use tax exemption policy pursuant to Act 2013-205 Section 1(g)  [CONTRACTOR accounts for the sales tax not included in the Bid Form by submitting an Accounting of Sales Tax – Attachment to BWWB Bid Form].  Failure to provide an accounting of sales tax shall render the Bid non-responsive. Other than determining responsiveness, sales tax accounting shall not affect the bid pricing nor be considered in the determination of the lowest responsible and responsive bidder. After Notice of Award, Prime Contractor and Subcontractor(s) licensed by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors must comply with ADOR reporting requirements for the duration of the project. For further information see Section 00409, Alabama Department of Revenue-Sales and Use Tax Exemption, Section 00200 Instruction to Bidders (Article 33) and refer to paragraph 6.10 in the Supplementary Conditions.
If a Contract is to be awarded, it will be awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible Bidder, who has neither been disqualified nor rejected pursuant to these Contract Documents, and whose Bid based on an evaluation by the OWNER indicates that the award will be in the best interest of the project and will result in the lowest overall cost to the OWNER for completion of the project. Unless extended by OWNER, a Contract will be awarded within ninety (90) calendar days after the day of the opening of Bids.
The OWNER reserves the right to reject any and all proposals, the right to waive irregularities or to accept any proposal deemed to be in the best interest of the OWNER.
Owner:
The Water Works Board of the City of Birmingham
3600 First Avenue North
Birmingham, Alabama 35222
Primary Contact:
Mr. Douglass W. Stockham, IV, P.E.
Telephone: (205) 244-4186
Facsimile: (205) 244-4686
Secondary Contact:
Ms. Janice Acoff
Telephone: (205) 244-4265
Facsimile: (205) 244-4765
BT08/22/2024
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REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS
DATE: August 1, 2024
FROM: Jefferson County Commission
General Services Department, Room 1
716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North
Birmingham, Alabama 35203
The General Services department on behalf of the Jefferson County Commission is conducting the A/E services selection process for the described Project.
PROJECT TITLE: Jefferson County 2121 Building Architectural Design for Interior Renovations
PROJECT LOCATION:  2121 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr. Boulevard North, Birmingham, AL 35203
PROJECT ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION BUDGET: TBD
DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS: August 28, 2024, 2:00 pm
This project consists of design and construction of various floors at the Jefferson County 2121 Building. The overall project is for remodeling of selected floors. The full design scope includes the development and preparation of programming and conceptual plans, space designs, plans and specifications, preparation of bid documents, assistance in the bid process, and construction and warranty phase administration for private and open office space, meeting rooms, and support space. Architectural and Engineering design services shall include plans for comprehensive demolition of interior architecture spaces and replacement with new interior architectural design and new finishes, new systems design (mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, fire alarm, technology, and telecommunications), and office systems furnishings design and specification.
General requirements:  The A/E shall be responsible for the professional quality, technical accuracy, and the coordination of the engineering and design work; construction documents shall be signed and “sealed” by the responsible registered professional architect(s) and engineer(s).
The A/E shall coordinate with the appropriate public utility companies and commissions, if required, to prepare connection designs according to the applicable guidelines. Submissions shall be prepared (and revised and resubmitted, if necessary) for securing approvals, class of service, permits, and service hook-ups.
The work shall comply with all applicable City of Birmingham, Jefferson County, State of Alabama, federal codes and regulations; and applicable utility provider, construction industry and ASHRAE standards, requirements, and guidelines.
The work shall conform with the “to be established” project budget and scope, once finalized, throughout planning, design, and construction.
The A/E shall make site visits, attend meetings, produce meeting minutes, make presentations, utilize the services of consultants, and submit required deliverables as necessary to execute specific parts of the work ‘to be established’ and in the Contract and the Scope of Work for the project. The A/E will be available to perform optional construction phase services at the agreed upon rate, if so requested by the Jefferson County Commission.
If you would like to be considered for this Project, please provide four complete copies of your submission documentation for the Project to our office by the deadline indicated above. Minority, women and disabled veteran-owned enterprises (DBE) are encouraged to apply. Significant local participation is recommended for engineering services for firms outside the State of Alabama. All qualification submissions shall be made in hard copy, bound 8 1/2 x 11 format with project and firm identification on cover stock.
Please include the following items in your packet and identify each specific qualification request identifiable by associated item numbers and tabbed accordingly below:
Qualification Package
1. Approach. A general statement of the firm’s approach to each of the project packages with particular focus on distinguishing characteristics or services.
2. Work proposed to be performed. A discussion of the firms understanding of the scope of services to be provided and the major work tasks to be performed.
3. Key personnel. A list of the proposed project team assigned to this project and their roles, previous related experience, education, date that person joined the firm.
4. Relevant experience. A statement of the firm’s relevant experience, including a brief description of projects similar in scope and size as the proposed project, include project title, dates work was performed, construction value, client contact information.
5. List of Proposed Engineers/Technology Consultants. Provide a list of proposed engineers/technology consultants the firm plans to use for each specific package for this project. Include their statements of qualifications, profiles and lists of previous experience with projects similar in scope, value, and size, and current client contact information.  It is imperative that the technology consultant have previous experience in recording, storing and retrieving job applicant screening and testing data.
6. Certificate of Insurance. Submit copy of firm’s certificate of insurance.
7. Include statement of DBE status. Is your firm a “Disadvantaged Business Enterprise”; Minority, women or disabled veteran-owned enterprise? Include statement of DBE status for each identified sub consultant/engineer listed for each package if applicable.
All questions regarding this project and submittal of the Statements of Qualification shall be directed to Trisha Hill, Committee Chair at email address trisha.hill@jccal.org. Any contact with the selection committee team members other than Ms. Hill may disqualify the firm’s proposal from consideration.
BT08/22/2024
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ADVERTISEMENT FOR A/E
REQUEST FOR STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS
DATE: August 15, 2024
FROM: Jefferson County Commission
General Services Department, Room 1
716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North
Birmingham, Alabama 35203
RE: REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS
The General Services department on behalf of the Jefferson County Commission is conducting the A/E services selection process for the described Project.
PROJECT TITLE: Jefferson County Commission Courthouse Roof Terrace Architectural Design
PROJECT LOCATION:  716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North, First Floor Roof Terrace, Birmingham, Alabama 35203
PROJECT ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION BUDGET: TBD
DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS:  September 12, 2024 2:00 P.M.
This project consists of design and construction of the First Floor Roof Terrace at the Jefferson County Courthouse. The overall project is for renovating the terrace paver roof system at the Linn Park entrance to the Jefferson County Courthouse.
The full design scope includes the development and preparation of plans and specifications, preparation of bid documents, assistance in the bid process, and construction administration.  Architectural and Engineering design services shall include plans for comprehensive demolition of existing system components as needed and replacement with new system components, as well as building envelope specialist recommendations.
General requirements: The A/E shall be responsible for the professional quality, technical accuracy, and coordination of the engineering and design work; construction documents shall be signed and “sealed” by the responsible registered professional architect(s) and engineer(s).
The A/E shall coordinate with the appropriate public utility companies and commissions, if required, to prepare connection designs according to the applicable guidelines. Submissions shall be prepared (and revised and resubmitted, if necessary) for securing approvals, class of service, permits, and service hook-ups.
The work shall comply with all applicable City of Birmingham, Jefferson County, State of Alabama, federal codes and regulations.  The work shall also comply with any applicable utility provider, construction industry and ASHRAE standards, requirements, and guidelines.
The work shall conform with the “to be established” project budget and scope, once finalized, throughout planning, design, and construction.
The A/E shall make site visits, attend meetings, produce meeting minutes, make presentations, utilize the services of consultants, and submit required deliverables as necessary to execute specific parts of the work ‘to be established’ and in the Contract and the Scope of Work for the project. The A/E will be available to perform optional construction phase services at the agreed upon rate, if requested by the Jefferson County Commission.
If you would like to be considered for this Project, please provide four (4) complete copies of your documentation to our office by the deadline indicated above. Minority, women and disabled veteran-owned enterprises (DBE) are encouraged to apply. Significant local participation is recommended for engineering services for firms outside the State of Alabama. All qualification submissions shall be made in hard copy, bound 8 1/2 x 11 format with project and firm identification on cover stock.  Electronic files may be submitted in addition to these copies but are not required.  Electronic submissions are to be PDF files emailed to dotsonant@jccal.org.
Please include the following items in your packet:
Identify each specific qualification request identifiable by associated item numbers and tabbed accordingly below:
Qualification Package
1. Approach. A general statement of the firm’s approach to each of the project packages with particular focus on distinguishing characteristics or services.
2. Work proposed to be performed. A discussion of the firm’s understanding of the scope of services to be provided and the major work tasks to be performed.
3. Key personnel. A list of the proposed project team assigned to this project and their roles, previous related experience, education, and date that each person joined the firm.
4. Relevant experience. A statement of the firm’s relevant experience, including a brief description of projects similar in scope and size as the proposed project.  Include project title, dates work was performed, construction value, and client contact information.
5. List of Proposed Engineers/Technology Consultants. Provide a list of proposed engineers/technology consultants the firm plans to use for each specific package for this project. Include their statements of qualifications, profiles and lists of previous experience with projects similar in scope, value, size, and current client contact information.
6. Certificate of Insurance. Submit copy of firm’s certificate of insurance.
7. Include statement of DBE status. State whether your firm is a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise, including minority, women or disabled veteran owned. Include statement of DBE status for each identified sub consultant/engineer listed for each package if applicable.
All questions regarding this project and submittal of the Statement of Qualifications shall be directed to Trisha Hill, Committee Chair at email address trisha.hill@jccal.org. Any contact with the selection committee team members other than Ms. Hill or her designee may disqualify the firm’s proposal from consideration.
BT08/22/2024
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INVITATION FOR BIDS
JEFFERSON COUNTY, AL
Bids will be received by the Jefferson County Commission Purchasing Agent Michael D. Matthews, Ph.D., C.P.M., until 4 PM CST on September 11, 2024, for 57-24 GENERATOR INSTALLATION, INSPECTIONS AND REPAIR. All Solicitation information including forms, and specifications are available for download free at https://jeffcobids.jccal.org/Search.aspx.
Interested parties must meet bidder requirements and qualifications as specified in the bid documents on or before the date that the bids are due.
A performance bond will be required in the amount of 5% OF BID NOT TO EXCEED $10,000.00. All questions must be submitted in writing to procurementservices@jccal.org. Attention CHARLES LINDSEY.
A pre-bid conference will be held on August 29, 2024, at 2 PM in Suite 830 of the Jefferson County Main Courthouse or Teams. For special accommodations please call 205-325-1810.
BT08/22/2024
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FINAL PY 2023 (JULY 1, 2023-JUNE 30, 2024)
ACTION PLAN-ONE YEAR USE OF FUNDS SUMMARY
30 DAY COMMENT PERIOD
CITY OF BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA
In accordance with 24 CFR Part 91, the City of Birmingham’s (“the City’s) Community Development Department is hereby publishing its Program Year (PY) 2024-2025 (July 1, 2024-June 30, 2025) Action Plan One Year Use of Funds Submission for citizen comments for a period of at least Thirty (30) calendar days from the date of this publication.  The summary is published in order to afford affected citizens an opportunity to examine the contents and to submit comments relating thereto.
All activities’ proposed allocations will be proportionally increased or decreased from the estimated funding levels to match actual allocation amounts.
Copies of the City’s Final PY 2024-2025 Action Plan-One Year Use of Funds are available for review in the City’s Community Development Department, 710 North 20th Street, Room 1000, Birmingham, Alabama from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except legal holidays and is posted on the City website-Community Development Department webpage at www.birminghamal.gov/community-development.
All interested parties who desire to submit written comments regarding the City’s development of its Final PY 2024-2025 Action Plan-One Year Use of Funds submission may do so by mail addressing them to Dr. Meghan V. Thomas, Director; Community Development Department; 710 North 20th Street, 10th Floor City Hall; Birmingham, Alabama 35203 or by email at housingandcommunityinfo@birminghamal.gov. Persons needing special assistance (such as translated materials or a draft copy of the report) or a reasonable accommodation to provide comments, please contact the City of Birmingham at housingandcommunityinfo@birminghamal.gov or (205) 254-2309. Please include, “Action Plan Request”, in the e-mail subject line.
ALL WRITTEN COMMENTS MUST BE RECEIVED IN THE CITY’S COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT AT THE REFERENCED ADDRESS NO LATER THAN AUGUST 4, 2024, BY 4:00 P.M. TO BE CONSIDERED IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE CITY’S FINAL PY 2024 ACTION PLAN ONE-YEAR USE OF FUNDS SUBMISSION.
RECOMMENDED ACTION PLAN BUDGET
July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025
PY 2024 Community Development Block Grant
$  5,760,968.00
PY 2024 Anticipated Program Income:
$  50,000.00
CDBG Total:
$  5,810,968.00
PY 2024 HOME Grant:
$  1,122,100.00
PY 2024 Anticipated HOME Program Income:
$    100,000.00
HOME Total:
$  1,222,100.00
PY 2024 Emergency Shelter Grant (ESG):
$    518,372.00
PY 2024 HOPWA Grant:
$  1,788,325.00
TOTAL
$  9,339,765.00
PROJECT: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG)
PLANNING & ADMINISTRATION
Administrative Funds (20% cap)
$  1,122,193.60
One Roof
$  40,000.00
PROJECT: REPAYMENTS OF SECTION 108 LOAN
Section 108 Loan Principal
$  60,000.00
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Rev Birmingham
$  120,000.00
Urban Impact
$  220,000.00
Small Business Loan
$  250,000.00
Roebuck Revitalization YMCA
$  500,000.00
Façade Improvement Program
$  210,000.00
HOUSING REHABILITATION
Program Cost
$  890,000.00
Single-Family Rehabilitation Program
$  1,000,000.00
Christian Service Mission
$  170,000.00
House Proud
$  100,000.00
Power UP
$  47,129.20
Disability Rights and Resources
$  200,000.00
Acquisition
$  10,000.00
PUBLIC SERVICES (15% cap)
Homeless Programs:
Men
Cooperative Downtown Ministries
$  55,300.00
Women
First Light, Inc.
$  60,000.00
Pathways/Day Center
$  50,000.00
Pathways Stepping- Stones/Overnight Shelter
$  30,000.00
YWCA
$  50,000.00
Changed Lives Christian Center
$  25,000.00
Supportive Services:
Bridge Ministries
$  16,000.00
Jimmie Hale Mission
$  56,500.00
Other Public Services:
Employment and Housing Assistance
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Treatment Center
$  25,000.00
Birmingham Urban League
$  50,000.00
Fair Housing Center of Northern Alabama
$  45,000.00
Help 2 Others Foundation
$  29,142.00
Jefferson State Community College
$  35,000.00
Legal Services of Alabama
$  90,000.00
Food for Our Journey
$  25,600.00
Be Kind Birmingham
$  2,278.85
Children/Youth Development/Senior Citizens
Childcare Resources, Inc.
$  20,000.00
Children’s Village, Inc.
$  55,000.00
Girls Inc.
$  35,000.00
Pathway’s Early Learning Center
$  15,000.00
Positive Maturity, Inc.-East Lake
$  27,000.00
Rose Garden Adult Day Services, Inc.
$  25,000.00
PUBLIC FACILITIES & INFRASTRUCTURE
Broadband
$  10,000.00
Public Facilities & Infrastructure
$  39,824.35
HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM (HOME)
ADMINISTRATION- 10%
$  122,210.00
CHDO ACTIVITIES- 15%
$  183,315.00
Down Payment Assistance
$  500,000.00
Home Buyer/ Rental
$  416,575.00
PROJECT: EMERGENCY SOLUTIONS GRANT PROGRAM (ESG)
Street Outreach Essential Services & Maintenance Operation Emergency Shelter
Cooperative Downtown Ministries, Inc.
$  60,000.00
Pathways/Day Center
$    60,000.00
One Roof-Street Outreach
$    20,000.00
Pathways Stepping -Stones/Overnight Shelter
$    40,000.00
Pathways Early Learning Center
$  25,000.000
Pathways Warming Station
$  20,000.00
Family Connection
$  85,494.10
AIDS AL Way Station
$  30,000.00
First Light, Inc.
$  55,000.000
HOMELESSNESS PREVENTION
Bridge Ministries
$  50,000.00
RAPID RE-HOUSING
YWCA RR FVC & IHH
$  34,000.00
ADMINISTRATION (7.5%):
$  38,877.90
PROJECT:  HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES FOR PERSONS WITH AIDS (HOPWA)
AIDS ALABAMA, INC.
Rental Assistance/TBRA
$  410,000.00
Rental Assistance/STRMU
$  70,000.00
Supportive Services
$  538,598.00
Operating Costs
$  520,894.50
Resource Identification
$  70,000.00
Sponsor Administration (7%)
$  125,182.75
ADMINISTRATION (Grantee) (3%)
$  53,649.75
GRAND TOTAL
$  9,765,934.00
BT08/22/2024
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PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE: The manufactured dwelling located at 4631 Elfreth Johnson Rd is now abandoned and will be sold by private sealed bid auction. To inspect the dwelling and submit a sealed bid, call Diana Valdez, 205-968-1640 ext. 3, by 9:00 am on August 14, 2024. The dwelling community owner may bid on the dwelling. Bids will be unsealed, and the winning bidder will be announced on August 28, 2024, at 10:30 am at the dwelling location noted here.
1.  Lot 31 Lexas Leonard
BT08/22/2024
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SENIOR HOUSING
Pratt City – New Haven Apts.
Senior Housing AGES 55+; 1 & 2 BR’S., Water, Sewer, & Garbage Services Furnished. Appliances Included. Office Hours M, T, Th, 9 am-2 pm, Fri 9 am-1 pm. Closed Wed. (205)798-0880. THIS INSTITUTION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PROVIDER.
BT08/22/2024
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Obamas Close DNC’s Second Night with Harris Endorsement, Warnings About Trump

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Former President Barack Obama walked out to a hero’s welcome at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago Tuesday night, telling the crowd he’s “fired up” and “hopeful.” (AP produced by Javier Arciga)

By  ZEKE MILLER, STEVE PEOPLES and JONATHAN J. COOPER | Associated Press

CHICAGO (AP) — Warning of a difficult fight ahead, former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama on Tuesday called on the nation to embrace Kamala Harris in urgent messages to the Democratic National Convention that were at times both hopeful and ominous.

“America, hope is making a comeback,” the former first lady declared. She then tore into Republican Donald Trump, a sharp shift from the 2016 convention speech in which she told her party, “When they go low, we go high.”

“His limited and narrow view of the world made him feel threatened by the existence of two hardworking, highly educated, successful people who also happened to be Black,” Michelle Obama said of Trump.

Barack Obama, the first Black president in U.S. history, insisted the nation is ready to elect Harris, who is of Jamaican and Indian heritage and would be the nation’s first female president. He also called Trump “a 78-year-old billionaire who hasn’t stopped whining about his problems since he rode down his golden escalator nine years ago.”

“It’s been a constant stream of gripes and grievances that’s actually gotten worse now that he’s afraid of losing to Kamala,” he said.

The fiery messages from two of the Democratic Party’s biggest stars underscored the urgency of the moment as Harris works to stitch together a broad coalition in her bid to defeat Trump this fall. The vice president is drawing on stars like the Obamas and other celebrities, officials from the far left to the middle, and even some Republicans to boost her campaign.

Former President Barack Obama and Former First Lady Michelle Obama both spoke Tuesday on the second night of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)

And while the theme of the night was “a bold vision for America’s future,” the disparate factions of Harris’ evolving coalition demonstrated, above all, that they are connected by a deep desire to prevent a second Trump presidency.

In an appearance perhaps intended to needle Trump, his former press secretary Stephanie Grisham — now a harsh critic of her former boss — also took the convention stage.

Trump “has no empathy, no morals and no fidelity to the truth,” Grisham said. “I love my country more than my party. Kamala Harris tells the truth. She respects the American people. And she has my vote.”

Sens. Chuck Schumer, the Senate Democratic leader, and Bernie Sanders, the Vermont independent beloved by progressives, both praised Harris.

Schumer called on voters to elect another Democratic majority to the U.S. Senate. “She can’t do it alone,” he said of a prospective President Harris.

Sanders, a self-described democratic socialist, said he was eager to work with Harris in the White House as well. Their policy goals, he said, are “not a radical agenda.”

As Democrats addressed the nation from Chicago, Harris faced an estimated 15,000 people in battleground Wisconsin in the arena where Republicans held their convention last month. She said that she was running “a people-powered campaign.”

“Together we will chart a new way forward,” the vice president said in remarks that were partially broadcast to the DNC. “A future for freedom, opportunity, of optimism and faith.”

Still, it was not all serious on the second night of the four-day convention.

A symbolic roll call in which delegates from each state pledged their support for the Democratic nominee turned into a party atmosphere. A DJ played a mix of state-specific songs — and Atlanta native Lil Jon ran out during Georgia’s turn to his hit song with DJ Snake, “Turn Down for What,” to the delight of the thousands inside the cavernous United Center.

Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris and her running mate Tim Walz were in Milwaukee Tuesday night for a campaign rally. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

And various speakers offered personal stories about Harris, who has served as a California senator and vice president, but remains largely unknown among many voters.

Second gentleman Doug Emhoff, who would become the nation’s first gentleman if his wife wins the presidency, shared details about his relationship with the vice president — their cooking habits, their first date and her laugh, which is often mocked by Republican critics.

“You know that laugh. I love that laugh!” Emhoff said as the crowd cheered. Later, he added, “Her empathy is her strength.”

Trump, meanwhile, was out on the campaign trail as part of his weeklong swing-state tour during the Democratic convention. He went to Howell, Michigan, on Tuesday and stood aside sheriff’s deputies as he labeled Harris the “ringleader” of a “Marxist attack on law enforcement” across the country.

“Kamala Harris will deliver crime, chaos, destruction and death,” Trump said in one of many generalizations about an America under Harris.

Throughout their convention, Democrats have sought to balance a message of unity with an embrace of diversity.

Barack Obama’s speech Tuesday night made perhaps the most forceful case for that model as a logical step forward for a bitterly divided nation. In contrast to the party’s rhetoric in the recent past around race, Obama framed the Democrats’ approach as “a new way forward” for a modern society in contrast to a “divisive,” “old” and “tired” strategy of vision offered by the party’s chief opponent, Trump.

Michelle Obama also addressed race directly as she jabbed Trump, referencing a comment he made in a June debate.

“Who’s going to tell him that the job he’s currently seeking might just be one of those ‘Black jobs’?” she said. ”It’s his same old con: doubling down on ugly, misogynistic, racist lies as a substitute for real ideas and solutions that will actually make people’s lives better.”

Former President Barack Obama spoke Tuesday on the second night of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)

Barack Obama returned to the convention stage 20 years after making his first appearance at a national convention, a 2004 appearance in Boston that propelled him into the national spotlight ahead of his successful presidential run. And he praised President Joe Biden, who ended his reelection bid last month and endorsed Harris.

“History will remember Joe Biden as a president who defended democracy at a moment of great danger,” Obama said Tuesday as the crowd chanted, “Thank you, Joe.” “I am proud to call him my president, but even prouder to call him my friend.”

Harris, meanwhile, cast the election in dire, almost existential terms. She implored Americans not to get complacent in light of the Supreme Court decision carving out broad presidential immunity, a power she said Trump would abuse.

She has also seized on Trump’s opposition to a nationally guaranteed right to abortion.

“They seemingly don’t trust women,” she said of Trump and his Republican allies. “Well, we trust women.”

The vice president’s speech in Milwaukee evoked some of the same themes that underlaid Biden’s case for reelection before he dropped out, casting Trump as a threat to democracy. Harris argued that Trump threatens the values and freedoms that Americans hold dear.

Trump said he would be a dictator only on his first day in office, a quip he later said was a joke, and has vowed as president to assert more control over federal prosecutions, an area of government that has traditionally been left to the Justice Department.

Someone with that record “should never again have the opportunity to stand behind the seal of the president of the United States,” Harris said. “Never again.”

How Women’s Foundation of Alabama is Working to Address the Childcare Gap Across the State  

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Inaugural members of the Childcare Accelerator cohort alongside Women’s Foundation of Alabama team members during graduation. (Provided)

By Javacia Harris Bowser | For The Birmingham Times

Even though 74 percent of Alabama families rely on a female breadwinner, Alabama has the 49th lowest female labor force participation rate in the nation. Research has shown that one of the key factors holding women back is lack of childcare.

Women’s Foundation of Alabama’s (WFA) now has an initiative in place to help address that problem. Advancing Alabama Childcare Accelerator is an 8-week program that focuses on the business side of owning a daycare facility with the goal of helping participants open centers that can offer accessible quality services for parents and competitive wages for the centers’ workers.

Zhaundra C. Jones, WFA Vice President of Philanthropy and Learning. (Provided)

The accelerator is the brainchild of Zhaundra C. Jones, Vice President of Philanthropy and Learning at WFA, which seeks to accelerate economic opportunity for women by supporting legislation, research and philanthropy that promote gender and economic equity.

“Comprehensively, what we’re really trying to do is focus on access, affordability, and workforce,” Jones said.  “I felt like an accelerator would allow us to design something that would pour into these business owners and if we could also give them access to much needed infrastructure capital, we could do our part of this puzzle of addressing the childcare gap in the state.”

Thanks to financial support from United Way of Central Alabama and other local and national partners, participants are also awarded grants to help with the launch of their centers.

Participants met weekly this past spring — sometimes online, sometimes in person at Polaris in Woodlawn — and each class was led by a different subject matter expert.

Kaitlee Daw, WFA Program Officer who facilitated the Childcare Accelerator. (Provided)

Kaitlee Daw, the Women’s Foundation of Alabama program officer who facilitated the accelerator, worked closely with the participants to ensure the program was providing the cohort with the resources they needed.

“I was meeting with them every week to make sure they felt it was a worthy use of time,” Daw said. “They were coming one to two nights a week and some were driving as far as Chilton County or Walker County to be there.”

Participants are working to open facilities in areas across Central Alabama including Bessemer, Center Point, Clanton, Hueytown and Parrish; and other places in Chilton, Jefferson, Shelby, and Walker counties.

Several are thinking outside the box, too. One entrepreneur in the program is developing a program centered on nature-based learning. Another is working on a program for kids with learning differences.

“They’re bringing really innovative programs to communities and still making them accessible,” Daw said.

Though classes were typically scheduled for only 90 minutes, they often lasted for two or three hours because the participants had so many questions.

“They were like sponges,” Daw said.  “They wanted all the information they could get. They would come early, and they would stay late.”

For the first cohort, which began in April 2024, the selection committee had to choose 12 applicants from a pool of 55 candidates. They considered several factors when selecting the cohort participants.

“What’s your mission? What’s your goal here? What’s your background in childcare?” Daw said, listing some of the questions the selection committee had for applicants.

Jones explained, “We were really looking for folks that wanted to open a center and were pretty well positioned to do so within the next three to six months.”

During the program, participants also learned how to give pitch presentations, which they each delivered at their closing ceremony held in June.

Crystal May, owner of Little Royalties Child Development Center in Hueytown which is set to open in mid-September, is one of 12 members of the first cohort of this program.

May said she enjoyed learning about profit and loss statements, marketing strategies, and the importance of community engagement. “I know it was geared towards childcare, but what I learned in that class can take you on to any type of business,” she said.

May said she also appreciated learning about the importance of businesses having unique selling propositions and what makes her center stand out from others.

Learn more about the Women’s Foundation of Alabama at wfalabama.org

Dr. Rolando Herts to Oversee National Monuments in Birmingham

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A Park Ranger shares the significance of the A.G. Gaston Motel with visitors on a summer day. (Alabama Tourism Department / Chris Granger)

www.nps.gov

The National Park Service (NPS) announced the selection of Dr. Rolando Herts as superintendent of Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument and Freedom Riders National Monument in Alabama, effective Sep. 9.

Dr. Rolando Herts

“We are excited to welcome Rolando as superintendent as he builds on more than a decade of distinguished leadership advancing cultural heritage tourism and education in partnership with the National Park Service,” said Mark Foust, NPS South Atlantic-Gulf Regional Director. “Rolando’s experience developing sites of memory and empowering communities to preserve nationally significant stories will help solidify the foundation of these two relatively new parks.”

Since 2014, Herts has served as the director of The Delta Center for Culture and Learning, and executive director of the Mississippi Delta National Heritage Area, a Congressionally designated partnership with the National Park Service. He was previously associate director with the Office of University-Community Partnerships at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, where he received the Berkowitz Distinguished Service Award as a Leadership Newark Fellow.

Through community engagement and partnership development, Herts has strengthened collaborations with the National Park Service, the Alliance of National Heritage Areas, the National Endowment for the Humanities, Mississippi Delta Blues Festival Brazil and various regional and community-based organizations. Under his leadership, The Delta Center and Mississippi Delta National Heritage Area received awards and recognitions from the National Park Service, National Humanities Alliance, Mississippi Heritage Trust, Mississippi Department of Archives and History, GRAMMY Museum Mississippi, Delta Business Journal, among others.

“I am excited and honored to have been selected for this key leadership role with the National Park Service,” Herts said. “Community engagement is essential to developing authentic cultural heritage tourism, especially with civil rights sites. I look forward to collaborating with various communities to further illuminate stories of the Birmingham Civil Rights and Freedom Riders national monuments.”

Herts is a research fellow with Tourism RESET, a multi-university and interdisciplinary research and outreach initiative focused on race, ethnicity and social equity in tourism. He serves on the Association of African American Museums Board of Directors and the Advisory Committee for the Center of Southern Culture at University of Mississippi. He previously served on the Delta Regional Authority’s Delta Leadership Network Regional Advisory Council, Mississippi Blues Commission and Mississippi Commission for Volunteer Services.

Herts holds a Ph.D. in planning and public policy from Rutgers Graduate School-New Brunswick, an M.A. in social science from The University of Chicago and a B.A. in English from Morehouse College. As an Executive Academy Fellow with the Delta Regional Authority’s Delta Leadership Institute, he earned an executive education certificate in authentic leadership from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government. His interests include organizational partnerships and holistic cultural heritage development, which involves community engaged approaches to tourism planning, education, storytelling and preservation.

About Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument

Established in 2017, Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument interprets the struggle for equality and civil rights in Birmingham, Alabama. The park’s boundary includes The Gaston Motel, Kelly Ingram Park, 16th Street Baptist Church, St. Paul United Methodist Church and a number of other historic properties that are part of the Birmingham Civil Rights National Register Historic District. These properties are significant with regard to the civil rights organizing and protests that occurred in downtown Birmingham between 1956 and 1963.

About Freedom Riders National Monument

Established in 2017, Freedom Riders National Monument preserves and interprets the sites where, on Mother’s Day in 1961, a Freedom Riders bus was attacked at the Greyhound Bus Station in downtown Anniston, Alabama, and attacked again and firebombed six miles away on State Highway 202. The Freedom Riders were a small interracial band of activists challenging discriminatory laws that required separation of the races in interstate travel. Images of the attack appeared in hundreds of newspapers, shocking the American public and spurring the federal government to issue regulations banning segregation in interstate travel.

About the National Park Service. More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 430 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov, and on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube

 

‘He Told Me He Loved Me and I Said it Back…We Confessed Our Love to Each Other’

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BY JE’DON HOLLOWAY-TALLEY | Special to the Birmingham Times

KATRINA AND DAVID DADA

Live: Hueytown

Married: Sept. 5, 2016

Met: September 2015 at their mutual friend Adeola Odutola’s housewarming in Gardendale. The men are frat brothers, and Katrina and Adeola were engineers at Alabama Power.

“I thought I knew all of Adeola’s friends, but got to the party and there were like 30-40 people there and I noticed Katrina immediately,” David recalled. “And about an hour later Adeola asked me to change a song and I went to his phone to do it and Katrina asked me, ‘What are you about to change the song to?’, and now this beautiful woman was talking to me so we made small talk.

Katrina and David began seeing one another in Adeola’s home at future gatherings. Soon after, Adeola hosted meetups for young professionals “and we would fellowship afterward, and we got to know each other at those gatherings…,” Katrina said.

By Adeola’s 2015 New Year’s Eve party, the attraction between David and Katrina had intensified. Eventually, Katrina slid into David’s DM’s on Facebook.

“I was already out having dinner with my line sister and we agreed to meet up at an eatery in Five Points South and we literally shut the place down,” Katrina said. “From that night forward, we’ve literally spent every day together.”

First date: January 2016. They took ballroom dance classes at the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Hoover.

“I knew she liked to dance, I knew she had danced in college at Tuskegee on the Golden Essence [basketball dance team], and I thought it would be cool to learn something fun together,” David said. “I can two-step, I can hold my own. I have rhythm and that was a cool experience, I had never done the Waltz or the Rumba, and it was cool to learn.”

“I remember when he approached me with the date, I was freaking out about what to wear because that’s an unconventional first date. … And with the thought that he put behind the date, I could tell there was something different about him. He was really listening to me in those interactions that we had in the past, and he listened to my interests and wanted to make sure that this first attempt was something that I really enjoyed,” Katrina said.

And she got to know another side of him, she said. “David is really reserved, he’s like a scholar, and I got to see a more fun side of him and it was a great way to get to know each other in a different way. He stepped on my toes a couple of times, but it was impressive and it set the foundation that let me know this was someone I could grow and build with.”

The turn: For Katrina, it was late February 2016. “David has a friend who was running for city council in Huntsville and he hosted a fundraiser event here in Birmingham, and David asked me to go with him… and [after the event] on the way to the car he was oddly quiet and I felt like he had something to say but wouldn’t say it… The next day he told me he loved me and I said it back and that was the first time we confessed our love to each other and made it official,” Katrina said.

For David, it was March 2016. David had been praying about what he wanted in a wife since June 2015 after hearing a sermon that said he should be specific in his prayer details. After meeting and dating Katrina, he began to notice that she checked all of the boxes, and after the political fundraiser they attended together, he showed her his prayer list.

“I showed her the prayer because she was the fulfillment of all of those things … and when I shared it with her she looked up at me and said, ‘what are you trying to say?’ and I told her, ‘you embody all of the things I’m looking for and I want to pursue you with that goal [marriage] in mind,” David said.

“I was wondering if that was a proposal, that’s why I looked up at him like, ‘is there anything else you want to say?’” Katrina laughed. “That showed me that he was serious and confirmed that he was different than other guys I had been involved with.”

Katrina and David Dada met in September 2015 at a mutual friend’s house. The couple married a year later. (Provided Photos)

The proposal: June 11, 2016, at Symphony in the Summer at Railroad Park. David had arranged a surprise engagement party on the rooftop at Southern Kitchen in the Uptown District to celebrate with close friends, family, and their fraternity and sorority brothers and sisters.

“I knew she didn’t want a public proposal, so I had discerned that for the proposal it should just be us, but I knew she’d want to celebrate afterward. So we went to Symphony in the Summer and I proposed to her when we got back to the car. I opened the door, and I got on one knee and asked her to marry me, and she said ‘yes’,” David said.

“He was so quiet that day, and that whole walk to the car he wasn’t talking, similar to how he was the day I knew he was trying to tell me he loved me but didn’t say it. And so, he told me we were going to dinner so I started switching from flats to heels, and when he proposed I literally had one shoe on,” Katrina laughed, “I was like, ‘oh, this is happening.’ He didn’t make a big speech, he got straight to the point and asked me to marry him. And he ended up spilling the beans about the gathering at Southern Kitchen.”

The wedding: At The Bessemer Civic Center, officiated by Pastor Andra Sparks, of 45th Street Baptist Church in East Lake. Their colors were red, white, and black.

Most memorable for the bride were several small moments throughout the day. “I’m all about getting confirmations about stuff and there was one specific moment during the wedding day that let me know David was definitely my person. I’m a daddy’s girl, so for the father-daughter dance, the song I chose was Beyonce’s ‘Daddy’ song, and during the dance, my daddy said, ‘Why you ain’t pick a more upbeat song?’ and I laughed it off,” said Katrina.

She continued, “And David and I choreographed our first dance and David was great about it. I remember us practicing in our apartment. We danced to John Legend’s ‘You And I’, and having a husband that would agree to have a choreographed dance with me, and that [reminded me of] our first date and the dance lessons… And I had a ‘thank you God’ moment because he sent me a person who was very complimentary to me and whom I love a lot.”

Most memorable for the groom was learning from the videographer after the wedding ceremony that the videographer thought he’d lost the footage.

“…and we had to reenact [parts of the] wedding with the pastor, and in the midst of all of that, I was just calm and extremely happy. He ended up having the original footage, but I was just excited that we were married and was being optimistic,” David said.

They honeymooned in Coco Beach, Florida. “We changed hotels because the first one was crap,” Katrina said. “And it was on me because I’m the one who booked the hotel… it gave 4 stars on the website, but gave one star in person.”

Words of wisdom: “Don’t try to make your relationship or marriage like anyone else’s. That’s something we had to grow into early on in our marriage because you get these ideas of gender roles thrown at you throughout your life, and then when you [get married] you try to make what you learned fit into your marriage versus focusing on the two people in the marriage and what works for the two of you. Focus on building your own relationship,” Katrina said.

“Every day is an opportunity to grow, growth is the goal, and I’m not alone in that. I have an amazing partner that I get to grow with and the foundation is set for love. I don’t have to earn approval, I can have flaws and be free to work on things but we accept one another,” David said. “… enjoy the path of growing together. And love them as they grow into the best versions of themselves.”

Happily ever after: The Dada’s attend 45th Street Baptist Church in East Lake where David serves as a deacon, Katrina leads the praise dance ministry, and they both lead their church’s couples ministry. They have two children, a son, David III, 7, and a daughter, Davis, 3.

Katrina, 32, is a Bessemer native and Bessemer City High School grad. She attended Tuskegee University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., and works for Ed Farm nonprofit in Birmingham as the senior program manager.

David, 35, is a Pratt City native and Ramsay High School grad. He attended The University of Alabama at Birmingham [UAB] where he earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in public administration. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and serves as the director of government relations at UAB.

 “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.

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