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PEOPLE, PLACES & THINGS

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Birmingham Times
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Jewell Pitts the Adult Female Athlete of the Year 2025. (Alabama State Games)

By Gwen DeRu | The Birmingham Times

HAPPY WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH!!

“CELEBRATE THE SHEROES IN YOUR LIFE!!!”

TODAY, MARCH 26

**READ THE BIRMINGHAM TIMES. Catch up on the news!!!

**WOMEN’S BUSINESS OWNERS FORUM AND LUNCHEON, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at the Hampton Inn & Suites, with the Alabama State Black Chamber of Commerce. Speakers include: Dr. Ona Brown, Dr. Lashunda Scales, Latisha Scott and Moderator Muriel Smith-Varner. For more email: info@AlBlackCC.org.

**JAZZ HAPPY HOUR with JOSE CARR AND HIS BAND, 5 p.m. at the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame.

**CHOKO AIKEN PIANO TRIO at High Dive, 7 p.m.

**FREE – SATURN’S COUNTRY KARAOKE with TRISTEN KLAVENGA at Saturn.

**KARAOKE KICKBACK EVERY THURSDAY, 6 – 9 p.m. at Jazzi’s on 3rd.

**BLUES JAM EVERY 3rd THURSDAY, 7- 10 p.m. at True Story Brewing.

**THAT’S MY JAM THURSDAYS KARAOKE & MINGLE at Platinum with music by DEVYBE BAND and hosted by Jirus Horton. Line Dance with DESI KEITH & D2 at 6 p.m.

**TAND with MEDICINE BUS at The Nick.

**SPECIAL EVENT” COMEDIAN PHIL HANLEY at the StarDome Comedy Club.

**RnB POETICALLY LIT, 5-7 p.m. at Lit on 8th, 518 Abraham Woods Jr. Blvd. with HUNCHO ZAVY, KD MCQWEEN, CAROL HOOD, DKMODE, BRIANNE SHARDAW and hosted by HEMP THE ARTIST. Every Thursday.

**3rd THURSDAY at the Nick with RAMBLIN’ RICKY TATE at The Nick.

**FILMMAKER NETWORKING NIGHTS, 5 p.m. at 1821 2nd Avenue North

**THAT’S MY JAM THURSDAYS, 7 p.m. at Platinum of Birmingham with DJ Slugga.

**ALABAMA BLAZIN BINGO, 6 p.m. at Overtime Grill and Bar.

**KARAOKE, 7 p.m. at True Story Brewing.

 

FRIDAY, MARCH 27

IT IS FRIDAY…the weekend starts…

**FISH FRY FRIDAY at Lil Mama’s, 1200 Hall Avenue EVERY FRIDAY, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.

**COMEDIAN SPECIAL EVENT: TONY BAKER at the StarDome Comedy Club.

**COMEDIAN MASON JONES at the StarDome Comedy Club.

**WATCH HOUSE at Iron City.

**THE NOWHERE SQUARES + MARA MAGRA + ABUSEMENT + BOLEE at The Nick.

**THE BROOK & THE BLUFF: WEREWOLF TOUR w/CASSANDRA COLEMAN at Avondale Brewing Co.

**ROBERT LESTER FOLSOM with RAMBLER KANE at Saturn.

**FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS, 5 p.m. at Howard’s Unlimited Lounge & Cocktail Bar at 4010 Avenue I with food by 1918 Catering Food Truck. Happy Hour at 5 p.m. Call 205-213-9097 for more.

**GOOD PEOPLE & GOOD MUSIC WITH GOOD PEOPLE BREWING at Dave’s, 6 p.m. at Dave’s Pub.

 

SATURDAY, MARCH 28

**FOOTSTEPS OF FAITH PRAYER WALK, 9 – 10 a.m. at Irondale City Hall with Mayor James D. Stewart, Jr. and Irondale City Chaplain Mike McClure, Sr.

**KEEP IT IN THE FAMILY: Estate Planning, Heirs’ Property and Homeownership in Birmingham, 10 a.m. at The Grove BHM, 200 6th Avenue SW.

**THE NEW EDITION WAY TOUR 2026 with NEW EDITION, BOYZ II MEN, TONI BRAXTON is coming to Birmingham.

**CANDLELIGHT: NEO-SOUL FAVORITES featuring songs by Prince, Childish Gambino and more, 8:45 p.m. at the Carver Theatre under the glow of candlelight.

**COMEDIAN SPECIAL EVENT: COMEDIAN TONY BAKER at the StarDome Comedy Club.

**COMEDIAN MASON JONES at the StarDome Comedy Club.

**DIE SPOTZ with BIRTHDAY GIRL at Saturn.

**DRAG NIGHT at The Nick

 

SUNDAY, MARCH 29

**SPRING FESTIVAL at Railroad Park, 1 – 4 p.m. for families with food and laughter.  There will food trucks, Easter eggs, photos with the Easter bunny, music and more.  Take your basket.

**EASTER EGGS-PERIENCE 2026, 2 p.m. at the Ruffner Park Sports Complex with FREE ice cream, crafts and Easter Bunny Photos. SCHEDULE including Ages, Times and Locations: AGES 0-3, 2 p.m. at Field 3B; AGES 4-6, 2:30 p.m. at Field 3A; AGES 7-10, 2:30 p.m. at Field 2; AGES 11+, 2:45 p.m. at Field 1 and Seniors (55+), 3 p.m. at Field 3.

**HOWARD’S UNLIMITED LOUNGE & COCKTAIL BAR, 4010 Avenue I, in Belview Heights with our own favorite son radio personality D.J. CHRIS COLEMAN. Check it out for Sunday Brunch with food by 1918 Catering, music and more!! For more, call 205-213-9097. 1918 Catering is the best food for lunch, dinner or your special event. (Take my word.)

**JOSE CARR performing at JAZZ IN THE GARDEN SUNDAYS, Every 1st and 3rd Sunday, 5-8 p.m. at Denim on 7th, 2808 7th Avenue Suite105.

**EASE BACK 4th SUNDAYS, 5 p.m. at True Story Brewing.

**2ND SUNDAY FREE SHOW with ZACH AUSTIN at The Nick.

**4th SUNDAY FREE SHOW with our favorite TAYLOR HOLLINGSWORTH at The Nick.

**MOTION SUNDAYS at Platinum, 8 p.m. – 1 a.m. with DJ CUZZO X DJ A1 Controlling the Vibes.

**FREE – NULL X DUG with REFUSE TO THRIVE, HOCKY at Saturn.

**COMEDIAN SPECIAL EVENT: COMEDIAN TIM SHROPSHIRE at the StarDome Comedy Club.

**COMEDIAN MASON JONES at the StarDome Comedy Club.

**THE STIFFTONES with FIRE CAMINO at The Nick.

 

MONDAY, MARCH 30

**WEEKDAYS – IRONDALE SENIOR ACTIVITY CENTER has activities starting at 8 a.m. with a Hot Lunch served for Seniors Monday – Friday, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.  Call 205-951-1418 for details about the FREE program.

**MONDAYS – THURSDAYS – CFJS CARES RESPITE PROGRAM, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Call 205-278-7113 for more info.

**MONDAYS – GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP, 10-11:30 a.m. at CJFS Conference Room. Open to survivors who have experienced loss within the past 2 years. Call 205-278-7101 to sign up.

**MONDAYS – DEMENTIA CAREGIVER VIRTUAL SUPPORT GROUP, 3 p.m. and/or Tuesday at 7 p.m. on Zoom. Call 205-278-7113 for more info.

**BIRMINGHAM BANDSTAND Open Mic at The Nick.

 

TUESDAY, MARCH 31

**TOWN HALL MEETING – State of the City Recap, 6 p.m. at Irondale City Hall, 101 20th Street South presented by Mayor James D. Stewart, Jr.

**TACO TUESDAY R & B NIGHT, EVERY THURSDAY at Hemings on 2ND Avenue.

**PODCASTING 101 at CREED63, EVERY TUESDAY at 5:45 p.m. Learn how to launch and create your own podcast at 1601 5th Avenue North, Birmingham 35203.

**JOSE CARR EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT at True Story Brewing.

**SONGWRITER’S NIGHT EVERY 2ND TUESDAY at The Nick.

**REAL FUNNY COMEDY WEDNESDAYS at True Story Brewing. Sign up at 7:30 p.m.

**MODEL/ACTRIZ at Saturn at 8 p.m.

 

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1

**REAL FUNNY COMEDY WEDNESDAYS at True Story Brewing. Sign up at 7:30 p.m.

**SPECIAL EVENT: GRITS & EGGS PODCAST: THE FIRST COUSINS TOUR at The StarDome Comedy Club.

**FREE – OLD CITY CHAMPS with GUTHRIE ECHOES, ALSOTHE BAND, and MARK ROBINSON at Saturn.

 

NEXT THURSDAY, APRIL 2

**READ THE BIRMINGHAM TIMES. Catch up on the news!!!

**JAZZ HAPPY HOUR with JOSE CARR AND HIS BAND, 5 p.m. at the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame.

**JUVENILE’S BOILING POINT ALBUM RELEASE TOUR WITH THE 400 DEGREEZ BANDS at Iron City.

**FREE INTERCEPTOR at Saturn.

**WARREN ZEIDERS w/LAKEVIEW at Avondale Brewing Co.

**KARAOKE KICKBACK EVERY THURSDAY, 6 – 9 p.m. at Jazzi’s on 3rd.

**BLUES JAM EVERY 3rd THURSDAY, 7- 10 p.m. at True Story Brewing.

**THAT’S MY JAM THURSDAYS KARAOKE & MINGLE at Platinum with music by DEVYBE BAND and hosted by Jirus Horton. Line Dance with DESI KEITH & D2 at 6 p.m.

**SPECIAL EVENT: COMEDIAN CHARLESTON WHITE at the StarDome Comedy Club.

 

NEXT FRIDAY, APRIL 3

**FISH FRY FRIDAY at Lil Mama’s, 1200 Hall Avenue EVERY FRIDAY, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.

**COMEDIAN SPECIAL EVENT: COMEDIAN ATTELL at the StarDome Comedy Club.

**FLESHWATER at Saturn.

 

NEWS TO KNOW AND USE – PEOPLE, PLACES AND THINGS TO WATCH 

CELEBRATE THE SHEROES IN YOUR LIFE – Across the Americas, Caribbean and beyond, women have fought for freedom, championed culture and redefined leadership. During Women’s History Month, we honor the women on the world stage. From entertainers to pioneering educators and scientists shaping the next generation, women and their influence is woven into the fabric of our history.  This month, we’ve honored their legacy and celebrate the women continuing to break new ground.

 

FOR SPORTS LOVERS

Celebrating and Honoring Alabama native JEWELL YVETTE COBBS PITTS who was the ‘Adult Female Athlete of the Year -Pickleball and Tennis’. She was the 2025 Honoree for the Alabama State Games, a part of the National Congress of State Games. It is the state’s largest multi-sport event that brings athletes together for Olympic-style competitions with a belief that sports should be accessible to everyone. It was started in 1982 at the request of the United States Olympic Committee (now named the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee). The Alabama State Games organizers honored Jewell Pitts, a Montgomery native last year, with the creation of the JEWELLFEST for her accomplishments. Jewell Pitts’ commitment to her decades long career in the Alabama Department of Mental Health and her love of tennis made a great impact on the lives of children and adults alike that had physical, intellectual and development disabilities. Her heart was in DREAM COURT, a non-profit organization that reflects her love and its mission providing an adaptive tennis program that strives for inclusion and acceptance where Jewell touched lives and hearts throughout the Montgomery-River Region Community. Dream Court is hosting THE JEWELL JOY CUP 2026, on May 2, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Lagoon Tennis Park in Montgomery. Pitts also known as a professional photographer was an advocate for the Special Olympics, an active member of numerous civic and church organizations including the Red Tails Aviation Flight Academy Foundation. She competed in the National Senior Games in pickleball and badminton. Jewell Pitts will be honored June 12-14, 2026, during the Alabama State Games in Birmingham. Jewell would have carried that legacy forward, this year, as a torchbearer during the Alabama State Games opening ceremony. Pitts died February 2026.

 

AROUND BIRMINGHAM

IN IRONDALE

**KEEP IRONDALE BEAUTIFUL – SPRING TRASH Amnesty Weeks: District 1 -March 30-April 2; District 2 – April 6-9; District 3 – April 13-16;

District 4 – April 20-23; District 5 – April 27-20.

**APRIL 4 – RUFFNER PARK SPORTS COMPLEX OPENING DAY, 9 a.m. -2 p.m.

 

IN MOUNTAIN BROOK

**MARCH 31 – YOUNG PROFESSIONAL MORNING MIXER, 7:30 – 9 a.m. at The Welch Group, 3940 Montclair Road for ages 25 – 40 on the fourth floor with a Coffee and Light Breakfast. You must register.

**APRIL 4 – MOUNTAIN BROOK EASTER EGG ROLL, 10 a.m. on the Grassy Field by the O’Neal Library. INTERESTED IN PARTICIPATING? Donate Eggs to the chamber to be included as a sponsor for this year’s event and have your logo on the banner. Email chamber@mtnbrookchamber.org to confirm and Drop off eggs at the chamber office by Thursday, April 2.

 

AT THE BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS

**APRIL 2 – GOT SUN? GROW FOOD!, 11 a.m. – Noon with Advance Master Gardner KAREN MITCHELL. You must register.

**APRIL 16 – 18 – SPRING PLANT SALE. Members ONLY at 1-5:30 p.m. on Friday; Open to the PUBLIC on Friday, 8 a.m. – 5:30 pm. and Saturday 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Bring your cart or wagon to get plants including: Natives, Perennials, Tropicals, Herbs, Camellias, Ferns, Trees & Shrubs, Roses, Heirloom Vegetables, Azaleas and Japanese Maples. Check and Credit Card ONLY. Rain or shine.

 

FOR MUSIC LOVERS

AT JAZZI’S ON 3RD…

**APRIL 17 – A TRIBUTE TO BABYFACE, 7-10 p.m. at Jazzi’s on 3rd featuring BT Collective, Eclectic Soul and ABRAHAM THE VOICE.

 

AT THE HISTORIC CARVER THEATRE

**APRIL 20 – JACKSONVILLE STATE UNIVERSITY LIVE, 5 – p.m. at the Carver Theatre for the Sunday Series, Jazz on 4th.

**JUNE 13 – JAZZ GIRLS DAY, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Carver Theatre. This groundbreaking event will celebrate young women in jazz through workshops, mentorship, and music-making.

**JUNE 20 – TYREEK MCDOLE LIVE at the Carver Theatre. This will be an unforgettable evening with a multi-award-winning Haitian American vocalist whose rich baritone and soulful artistry will capture audiences across the country. McDole transforms each performance into a powerful space for reflection, connection and collective experience.

**JUNE 28 – EXCELSIOR BAND, 5 p.m., at the Carver Theatre for the Sunday Series – Jazz on 4th.

**MAY 3 – THE MICHAEL J. AND MARY ANNE FREEMAN PARLOR CONCERT 2026, 2:#o p.m. at the Hoover/Randle Jome, 2255 Tyler Road, Bluff Park featuring CARLOS IZCARAY with Birmingham Music Club. Get your tickets early.

 

COMING SOON

**APRIL 11 – YARD SALE, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Sardis Missionary Baptist Church, 1615 4th Court W, supporting the youth ministry.

**APRIL 29 – MAY 3 – BLUES TRAVELER BAND TO PERFORM AT THE REGIONS TRADITIONS – Get Ready to Rock on May 2 with the Blues Traveler on Hole 10 at the White Claw Watering Hole. The Regions Tradition Golf Tournament is April 29 – May 3 at the Greystone Golf & Country Club.

**MAY 30 – MAGIC CITY CLARINET FESTIVAL – The 3rd Magic City Clarinet Festival is 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Birmingham Museum of Art. There will be concerts, master classes and competition with registration at 10:30 a.m. and classes at 11 a.m. Contact: director@bhammusicclub.org or 205-253-1313, for more.

 

Well, that’s it. Tell you more ‘next’ time. People, Places and Things by Gwen DeRu is a weekly column. Send your questions, contact info with your events, your things of interest and more to: gwenderu@yahoo.com AND thelewisgroup@birminghamtimes.com.

Alabama Unveils ‘SUN Bucks,’ Providing $120 Per Eligible Child for Summer Food

By
Birmingham Times
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0
The Alabama SUN Bucks program, also known as Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer or Summer EBT, will provide a one-time payment of $120 per school-age child for qualifying families. (Adobe Stock)

The Birmingham Times

This summer, eligible school-age children will receive a one-time payment of $120 per child in grocery benefits through the Alabama SUN Bucks program. These benefits can provide the nourishment your children need during the summer break.

SUN Bucks benefits are in the form of a pre-loaded card with a one-time $120 benefit for the summer that families can use to purchase groceries. Alabama SUN Bucks will be  accepted at grocery stores, farmers’ markets, convenience stores and online retailers. Alabama SUN Bucks can buy most SNAP-eligible foods, except hot and prepared foods.

The Alabama SUN Bucks benefit will start being sent in June 2026 and families that need to apply can do so anytime. The Alabama Department of Human Resources will send a letter about your child’s eligibility if you applied or are automatically eligible.

School-age students are eligible and will be enrolled automatically for Alabama SUN Bucks if:

  • Your child attended a school during School Year 2025-2026 with the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP), and your household meets the free or reduced-price school meals income guidelines; or
  • Your child attended a school during School Year 2025-2026 with the NSLP or SBP and your household received benefits through SNAP, TANF, Medicaid (through school demonstration project), Foster Care, Homeless, Migrant, Runaway or Head Start. (Not all Head Start locations participate).

If you have not applied for or stopped receiving any of these benefits, you need to apply for Alabama SUN Bucks to start receiving grocery benefits for the summer. The last date to apply is August 15.

Email your application to: support@alabama-sunbucks.com or mail application to P. O. Box 241089, Montgomery, Alabama, 36124-1089. For any questions, reach out to DHR at: support@alabama-sunbucks.com or you may contact us at 1-800-443-3536.

‘He Told Me He Asked My Mama [For My Hand in Marriage] and I Broke Down’

By
Birmingham Times
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By Mia Watkins | The Birmingham Times

TRALANA & HENRY BARNETT

Live: Pleasant Grove

Married: October 18, 2014

Met: Facebook is a place where you can find anything from a couch to your soulmate. Henry Barnett should know. That’s how he connected with his wife, Tralana.

“I was scrolling, and I noticed I had a friend request,” he said. “I click on it, and I see Tralana Wyatt. I had never met her. I scrolled through the pictures to see if, you know, seeing her face would jog my memory. It didn’t. I had no idea who she was. Back then, I would just accept friend requests just because, which is silly now. We started chatting, and she told me that she knew my sister.”

It turns out, the couple crossed paths way before social media. They went to the same high school. Henry was a year ahead of Tralana.

“I guess she’d seen me in the hallway in passing, but I never noticed her,” he said. “But I was like, ‘I don’t know who she is, but she’s fine, so I’ll accept it.”

First date: When the Barnetts first started talking, Henry lived in Montgomery, and Tralana lived in the Birmingham area. Their first date was a low-key one at a Montgomery Hooters.

“I was like, I’m going to be in town whatever weekend it was, and we can get together,” Tralana recalled. “Then he told me that he was planning on watching a UFC fight at Hooters. I was like, ‘Cool, I’ll tag along.’ That was kind of surprising for him because, usually, women aren’t into UFC. But I actually had watched it previously and enjoyed it.”

Henry said Tralana was late, so he got a beer and waited for her to arrive. After that, the evening flowed well for them.

“It was cool,” she said. “It was a good fight. We tried to have some conversation through nerves here and there. I ordered a grilled chicken salad with honey mustard dressing and offered him some. Unbeknownst to me, he wasn’t a salad eater at the time, but I kind of opened his palate up to that. It didn’t feel like we had to try a lot. We were just chilling.”

But their second date was more of a mini disaster, they said.

“I came up to visit her, and on my way to her apartment, I ended up getting lost,” Henry said. “I wasn’t really the one to take road trips, and this was before GPS on your phone. This was back in the MapQuest days. What was so crazy was that I stopped at a gas station to fill up. It turns out, I was all of maybe 10 minutes away from her apartment.”

Henry got back on the interstate and ended up in Leeds by the time Tralana called to check on him.

“I was so embarrassed,” he said. “I think I read off one of the road signs, and she was like, ‘No, no, no!” When I finally got to her apartment, I was thinking that I just messed this up. I was embarrassed for the rest of the night.”

“Coincidentally, I had been at a wedding reception for one of my line sisters earlier that afternoon and caught the bouquet,” Tralana explained. “I was like, I could have stayed at the reception longer.”

She used that moment later for the ultimate callback to their beginning.

“This was spring, and by Christmas, we were officially a couple,” she said. “I got him a GPS for his car for his first Christmas gift.”

The turn: Henry said that personal hardship helped him see that Tralana was the one for him.

“When we met, I had fallen on hard times just from being one of those young people who don’t make the best decisions,” he said. “She stuck by me through all of that. She didn’t judge me. She didn’t treat me any kind of way. If anything, she helped pull me out of it. I’m not going to say all women, but some women won’t do that. If they see a man who doesn’t have his stuff together, they may say they aren’t dealing with that. She didn’t do that; she stuck by me through it all. That’s when I knew. She helped me get back on my feet. She didn’t judge me, and that’s what I was really worried about.”

Tralana said that Henry’s relationship with his niece did it for her.

“Seeing him interact with his niece, our niece now, and how much he cares for her and loves her and puts effort towards a bond and a relationship with her,” she said. “I thought that was pretty solid. He’s caring and gentle with her. I felt like I could trust him with my heart, seeing that interaction.”

Tralana and Henry Barnett connected on social media, but had previously been at the same high school in different grades. The couple married in 2014. (Provided Photos)

The proposal: The two got engaged in June 2013 on their dating anniversary.

“At least two years prior, we had formed a tradition to go to Ross Bridge and staycation for our anniversary,” Tralana said. “We would do a couple’s massage and just stay in, order room service and just be. We got to the hotel, checked in for our massages, and then we came back to the room. He wanted to go ahead and exchange gifts. He opened his gift first. Then, asked me to close my eyes, and when I opened them, he was down on one knee with the ring. Just like he was saying that I stuck by him, that’s part of what he said during his proposal.”

Tralana said it took her a moment to process her emotions, but she immediately said yes.

“He told me he asked my mama [for my hand in marriage] and I broke down,” she said. “I’m a delayed crier. I should have been crying when he asked me. That meant a lot to me. Everybody knew except for me.”

In fact, their family was afraid that their four-year-old niece was going to give away the surprise, but she didn’t.

The wedding: The couple was married at Beulah Primitive Baptist Church, Tralana’s home church in Hope Hull, with Elder Tim Gardner III presiding over the ceremony. Their colors were teal and purple, with peacock accents.

Tralana said she has fond memories of walking down the aisle.

“His reaction to seeing me, he cried really hard,” she said. “It was beautiful. I was like, ‘Wow.’ He doesn’t necessarily emote like that. I’ve only experienced him crying once before. I was like, ‘Wow, he’s really feeling the love. I looked around, and I saw other people also reacting to that, including my dad who was walking me down the aisle. I was smiling really hard. Cheeks hurting. It was very touching.”

“I was trying to hold it in, but I couldn’t,” Henry added.

Henry’s father served as his best man and helped him pull it back together.

He said that his anxiety was through the roof that day. He anxious about two things: falling and eating.

“On the way to the church, we stopped by the gas station, and I got a bag of popcorn and a Red Bull,” he said.  “I was going to eat it on the way, but I couldn’t because I didn’t have an appetite. After the ceremony, I was so hungry. I was starving. We had to take pictures, and that took forever. That memory stands out. Also, I was like, please don’t let me trip walking down the aisle. It was cables and cords from the cameras and all that. Outside of that, it was a pretty smooth day for me.”

The honeymoon: The two haven’t been on an official honeymoon because they had to return to work the following week.

“We had to get right back to regular life,” Henry said.

Words of wisdom: The two say communication is key to a successful relationship.

“Just talk,” Henry said. “It’s not going to be peaches and cream every day. That’s not really life; you’re going to go through stuff. Just learn to talk it out. You’re going to have moments, every relationship does, but just learn to talk it out.”

Tralana added to that by saying that couples should learn each other’s communication styles.

“Everybody doesn’t communicate the same,” she said. “Whenever an issue comes up, try not to be defensive. Just listen to hear, not to respond, like the saying goes. That’s a good thing to do. Don’t get offended by it or be ready with your retort. You didn’t absorb anything that was just said to you. Everybody’s perspective is different. What’s important to one may not be important to the other, but it shouldn’t lessen the impact of it for the one who it may not be important to.”

Happily ever after: Tralana and Henry are busy raising their 8-year-old daughter, Haylee. Henry works at Mercedes-Benz building cars, while Tralana works at South College in the financial aid department. They are currently searching for a church home in the Birmingham metro area.

“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 editor@birminghamtimes.com. Include the couple’s name, contact number(s) and what makes their love story unique.

Phi Iota Omega Chapter Celebrates 26 Years of Service with Time Capsule Opening

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Birmingham Times
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Charter Members and Chapter Presidents of the Phi Iota Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (Provided)

The Birmingham Times

The Phi Iota Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., commemorated 26 years of service to the Birmingham community with a Founders’ Day and Rededication Ceremony, highlighted by the opening of a time capsule sealed in 2001.

The capsule, prepared in honor of the chapter’s chartering on December 11, 1999, contained treasured artifacts from the early years of the chapter’s formation — photographs, program materials, written reflections, newspaper clippings and keepsakes that captured the vision of its 37 charter members.

“What began as a vision in 1999 has expanded into a powerful legacy of leadership, scholarship, and community impact,” said President and Charter Member Nikki Seaborn. “Opening the time capsule reminded us that the prayers and plans of our charter members were not in vain. We are their answered vision.”

Over the past 26 years, the chapter, which now has more than 150 members, has provided scholarships to deserving students, supported local schools through literacy initiatives, led voter education and civic engagement efforts, hosted health and wellness programs, and partnered with community organizations to address economic empowerment and social justice concerns.

As Phi Iota Omega looks ahead, members reaffirmed their commitment to expanding scholarship opportunities, deepening community partnerships, and continuing programs that positively impact youth and families throughout the city.

The Phi Iota Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., commemorated 26 years of service by the opening of a time capsule sealed in 2001. (Provided)

Birmingham’s Railroad Park in the Running for America’s Best City Park

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Birmingham Times
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Known as “Birmingham’s Front Lawn,” Railroad Park has brought the community together and helped catalyze Birmingham’s revitalization. (File)

The Birmingham Times

USA Today wants to know if Birmingham’s Railroad Park is the country’s best city park.

Railroad Park, along with 19 other city parks across the nation, is in the running for Best City Park in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice poll.

Formerly a rail waste yard, Railroad Park is a 19-acre green space that honors the city’s industrial and artistic heritage. Much of the park, which opened in 2010, was created with reclaimed materials from the site’s industrial past.

Also known as Birmingham’s “front lawn,” the park hosts a variety of concerts and cultural events, including Symphony in the Summer and Magic City Wine Fest, as well as free fitness classes. There are pedestrian pathways and picnic facilities, and the Rail Trail offers great views of the passing trains.

Votes for Railroad Park can be cast daily through April 6 at 10best.usatoday.com/awards/railroad-park-birmingham-alabama.

The USA Today 10Best contest invites readers to choose the 10 best across several travel and lifestyle categories. A panel of experts makes nominations in awards covering food and drink, shopping, sports and outdoors, travel destinations, lodging, attractions, and more.

Other Birmingham favorites nominated this year include the Pizitz Food Hall for Best Food Hall and the Farmers Market at Pepper Place for best Farmers Market.

Learn more at 10best.usatoday.com/awards.

Miles College Cheer Team Wins National Championship After 20-Year Hiatus

By
Birmingham Times
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Miles College cheer team poses for a photo after winning the titles for Overall Grand Champions and College Coed Game Time Champions at the CCA Christian Cheer Nationals & Collegiate Championship at Fayetteville, North Carolina on March 7. (Le'Andrea Anderson Tolbert, Provided)

By Ann Brown | blackenterprise.com

Their return alone marked a major milestone, but their performance elevated the moment into a historic breakthrough.

Miles College has made history with a victory at a national cheerleading competition.

The Golden Bears cheer team captured both the Overall Grand Champion title and the College Coed Game Time Championship at the CCA Christian Cheer Nationals & Collegiate Championship on March 7 in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Miles College, located in Fairfield, became the first Historically Black College or University to earn both titles at the competition. The Golden Bears were just the second HBCU cheer team to compete at CCA nationals.

The team had not competed on a national stage in more than 20 years. Their return alone marked a major milestone, but their performance elevated the moment into a historic breakthrough.

The journey to nationals was far from easy. Funding was a major hurdle, and initially, the trip wasn’t considered financially feasible. Head coach Le’Andrea Anderson-Tolbert stepped in and covered registration costs. From there, the team rallied support, raising more than $10,000 through community donations, family contributions, and grassroots efforts, HBCU Gameday reports.

Limited access to proper facilities forced the team to adapt. They sometimes practiced routines without full stunts or rehearsed in unconventional spaces. Yet the Golden Bears overcame the challenges and represented smaller HBCUs on a national level.

“This whole competition season… was about what we’re doing for our community and showcasing what smaller HBCUs can bring,” Anderson-Tolbert shared, according to AL.com.

When the team finally took the stage, the members delivered a high-energy routine that blended precision, spirit, and the signature performance style deeply rooted in HBCU cheer culture. Their execution and presence quickly set them apart from the competition.

The Golden Bears’ victory is being hailed as a defining moment, not only for Miles College but for HBCU cheer programs across the country.

Local Nonprofit Opens Nominations for Its Annual Top 50 Over 50 Awards

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Birmingham Times
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People attend a previous Positive Maturity Top 50 Over 50 Gala at The Club in Birmingham. (File)

By Javacia Harris Bowser | The Birmingham Times

A Birmingham-based nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the lives of older adults is looking to celebrate residents over 50 doing noteworthy work.

Positive Maturity, a nonprofit organization serving older adults across Central Alabama, has announced a call for nominations for its 2026 Top 50 Over 50 Awards.

“The Top 50 Over 50 Awards honor the extraordinary individuals whose leadership, service, and commitment have inspired others to make a difference,” said Wanda McCoy, board president of Positive Maturity. “By celebrating their achievements, we celebrate the importance of positive aging and highlight the lasting impact these remarkable honorees continue to have on Central Alabama.”

Now in its 13th year, the annual awards celebrate 50 outstanding Alabamians who continue to effect change in their communities through business leadership, civic engagement, volunteerism, innovation, philanthropy, education, healthcare, law, the arts and other fields of influence.

Top 50 Over 50 trophies. (Provided)

Nominees must:
• Be 50 years of age or older by July 26, 2026
• Live in Alabama or be originally from Alabama
• Have made a significant positive impact on their community, workplace, or state
• Demonstrate leadership, service, and a commitment to improving the lives of others
• Nominations may be submitted by colleagues, community members, organizations, or individuals familiar with the nominee’s contributions.

Nominations can be submitted online at Top50Over50.com through Friday, April 3.

The awards ceremony will take place Thursday, July 23, 2026, at The Club Birmingham atop Red Mountain.

About Positive Maturity

Established in 1972, Positive Maturity encourages older adults to remain independent, stay engaged, volunteer, and build meaningful connections within their communities. Over the years, Alabama’s aging population has evolved significantly. Today’s older adults are not sitting on the sidelines. They’re living longer, healthier lives, working well into their 70s and 80s, and often caring for parents, adult children, and even grandchildren. Many are launching second careers, and, perhaps most notably, they continue to give back in impactful, life-changing ways.

As one of the first senior-focused organizations in Jefferson County, Positive Maturity now extends its reach to Blount, Jefferson, Shelby, and Walker counties. The organization is powered by more than 1,200 active volunteers who contribute over 150,000 service hours each year.

Learn more about Positive Maturity at www.positivematurity.org. 

Opinion: Why Fluoridated Water Still Matters for Jefferson County

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Birmingham Times
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City officials say the sudden removal of fluoride is a “public nuisance” that threatens the dental health of the city’s 90,411 residents. (Adobe Stock)

By Dr. David Hicks | Jefferson County Health Officer

When public health works well, most people never notice. We expect our water to be safe, our food to be inspected, and our communities to support health — not illness. Community water fluoridation is one of those behind-the-scenes protections, and in Jefferson County, it remains an important part of keeping our families healthy.

Tooth decay is often dismissed as minor, but it is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting children and adults. In Alabama, recent school-based screenings show that more than one in five kindergarteners and nearly one in four third graders have untreated tooth decay, rates that exceed national averages.

Untreated cavities cause pain, infection, missed school days, and costly emergency care — problems that disproportionately affect families with limited access to dental services.

Fluoridated water helps prevent these outcomes. By maintaining a low level of fluoride in the mouth throughout the day, it strengthens tooth enamel and reduces the risk of cavities across the lifespan. Decades of research show that communities with fluoridated water experience lower rates of tooth decay than those without it, even in the modern era of fluoride toothpaste.

In Alabama, about 77% of people served by public water systems receive fluoridated water, slightly above the national average but still leaving large gaps. Jefferson County performs better than many counties, with nearly all residents on public water systems receiving fluoridated water. That matters, because counties with lower fluoridation coverage tend to see higher rates of untreated tooth decay in children.

Some have asked whether fluoridation is still needed now that fluoride toothpaste is widely available. Toothpaste is important, but it requires regular access, proper use, and consistent habits. Fluoridated water provides continuous, passive protection, benefiting everyone who drinks it — regardless of income, insurance status, or ability to see a dentist. When communities discontinue fluoridation, cavity rates reliably rise, particularly among children and low-income families.

Safety is another common concern. Fluoride is one of the most studied public health interventions in history. In the United States, water systems target 0.7 milligrams per liter, a level chosen to maximize dental benefits while minimizing risks. Extensive reviews by national scientific bodies find no credible evidence of serious health harm at this level.

Fluoridation is a highly cost-effective choice for communities. For every dollar invested, several dollars are saved on dental treatments — benefiting families, schools, and taxpayers. Supplying optimally fluoridated water across US communities for a year saves $6.5 billion in dental expenses and achieves an average return of $20 for every dollar spent. On average, communities with fluoridated water see 25% fewer cavities, saving $32 per person each year by avoiding dental costs and reducing missed work and school days.

In Jefferson County and across Alabama, we face real challenges in access to dental care. Water fluoridation is not a cure-all, but it is a proven and affordable tool that protects everyone, especially children. Preserving it is a practical step toward a healthier community.

Dr. David Hicks is a board-certified family medicine physician and serves as Health Officer at the Jefferson County Department of Health (JCDH).

Women and Wealth: Tips For Navigating Your Lifelong Financial Journey

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Birmingham Times
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J.P. Morgan Wealth Management’s 2025 Investor Study found that women are not only set to receive significant wealth – they’re actively working to build it on their own. (Vithun Khamsong/Moment, with Getty Images)

Sponsored by J.P. Morgan Wealth Management

We are in the midst of a seismic shift in wealth. This phenomenon, often referred to as the “Great Wealth Transfer,” describes the unprecedented movement of assets from the Baby Boomer generation to their heirs — an estimated $105 trillion by 2048. And women are poised to inherit most of this.

J.P. Morgan Wealth Management’s 2025 Investor Study found that women are not only set to receive significant wealth – they’re actively working to build it on their own. Ninety-three percent of women surveyed who are expecting an inheritance aren’t relying on it to reach their goals.

Here are a few tips for women to consider in their wealth-building journey.

Create a financial roadmap

A detailed, well thought out plan is important. J.P. Morgan’s study found that 90% of those surveyed with a plan feel confident about reaching their financial goals, compared to 49% without one.

Your plan should reflect your unique goals, priorities and circumstances. Consider your investment horizon and risk tolerance, and remember to revisit your plan regularly as life evolves.

Are you saving up for goals like buying a house, sending your kids off to college or retiring early? Where do you want to be in the next five, ten or twenty years? Everyone’s financial situation is unique, so it’s important to think about these questions and build a plan that is unique to your life.

Women tend to live longer than men on average. Many take career breaks or care for family members, which can influence long-term planning. It’s important to adjust your strategy with these factors in mind.

Where to start with investing

Don’t let misconceptions hold you back. Starting to invest doesn’t require a large sum, and beginning early can be beneficial. The earlier you start, the more time your money has to potentially grow over the years. Understand your overall financial situation, set clear goals and develop a long-term plan.

It’s important to also make sure you’re covered for unexpected expenses that come up before you start to invest. Build up a cash emergency fund, typically enough to cover three to six months of expenses, and pay down any high-interest debt.

Taking charge of your finances

The good news is that women are taking charge of their finances. J.P. Morgan’s research found that 75% of women respondents make financial decisions with their partner or take the lead themselves. For those who have a spouse or partner, it’s important for each person in the relationship to play an active role in the process.

Building wealth can be empowering for many women. The same survey found that 73% of women respondents said money gives them “security,” while 64% of Gen Z and Millennial women associated it with “freedom.”

The power of having a team

Some people find it helpful to work with a financial advisor, so you don’t have to tackle things alone. An advisor can help you craft a plan tailored to your needs and keep you on track throughout your lifelong financial journey. If you expect to receive an inheritance, you should also consult with estate planning and tax professionals.

No matter where you are on your wealth-building path, education is key. It’s so important to be an informed investor, and there are plenty of resources out there to help. You can find a library of free educational resources at chase.com/theknow.

As the landscape of wealth continues to evolve, women have a unique opportunity to shape their financial futures and those of generations to come. By staying informed and planning ahead, women have the tools to help them confidently navigate the Great Wealth Transfer and set themselves up for financial freedom.

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

The views, opinions, estimates and strategies expressed herein constitutes the author’s judgment based on current market conditions and are subject to change without notice, and may differ from those expressed by other areas of J.P. Morgan. This information in no way constitutes J.P. Morgan Research and should not be treated as such. You should carefully consider your needs and objectives before making any decisions. For additional guidance on how this information should be applied to your situation, you should consult your advisor.  

JPMorgan Chase & Co., its affiliates, and employees do not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any financial transaction.  

Investing involves market risk, including possible loss of principal, and there is no guarantee that investment objectives will be achieved. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. 

Diversification and asset allocation does not ensure a profit or protect against loss. 

J.P. Morgan Wealth Management is a business of JPMorgan Chase & Co., which offers investment products and services through J.P. Morgan Securities LLC (JPMS), a registered broker-dealer and investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC.  

City of Birmingham, Housing Authority of the Birmingham District Announces Several Job Opportunities

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Birmingham Times
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City of Birmingham officials and the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District have announced several job openings. (Adobe Stock)

The Birmingham Times

The City of Birmingham has announced new openings for positions with the city. Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin encourages recently laid-off Central Alabama Water employees to inquire about these positions.

The Housing Authority of the Birmingham District will also host a job fair Monday. Those qualified and affected by CAW layoffs are encouraged to attend.

The Maintenance Technician Employment Fair is an event for qualified candidates to explore opportunities to support communities served by the HABD.

The City of Birmingham is accepting applications for several positions:

  • Assistant Automotive Technician
  • Automotive Technician (Heavy Equipment)
  • Automotive Technician (Heavy Truck)
  • Civil Engineer
  • Fire Paramedic
  • Firefighter
  • Fleet Operations Superintendent
  • Landscape Crew Leader
  • Magistrate
  • Maintenance Mechanic
  • Painter
  • Plumber
  • Police Officer
  • Recreation Leader
  • Senior Attorney
  • Senior Civil Engineer
  • Traffic Control Technician
  • Urban Arborist

For more information on classified positions, visit www.birmingham.jobsquest.org

Contact recruiting@birminghamal.gov, for more information.

Also, the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District invites qualified candidates to attend our upcoming Maintenance Technician Employment Fair to explore opportunities to support the communities we serve.

Event Details:

  • Date: Monday, March 23, 2026
  • Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  • Location: Birmingham Career Center | 3216 4th Avenue South | 35222

Event Highlights:

  • Same-day interviews for qualified candidates
  • Direct engagement with HABD staff
  • Information on compensation, benefits, and career pathways

Important: All candidates must complete an online application prior to attending the event to be considered for employment. Please visit http://habd.org/jobs, select an open position, and click “Apply.”

In addition to Maintenance Technician roles, HABD is hiring for a variety of positions across the organization, including opportunities in property management, administration, resident services, and other operational areas. All available openings can be viewed at http://habd.org/jobs.

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