James Mokaya Omweri Put Family And Faith First; Now He’s a UAB Ph.D. Grad

August 10, 2024

Inside_Omweri_Kids — James Mokaya Omweri and his children, Bernoulli, 7, and Bernice, 10. James will graduate today with a doctoral degree in chemistry from the College of Arts and Sciences. (Photography: Jennifer Alsabrook-Turner)

For James Mokaya Omweri, attending the University of Alabama at Birmingham has been a steppingstone in the future he is building for his family.

Born in Kenya, Omweri is a Ph.D. student set to graduate today with a doctoral degree in chemistry from the College of Arts and Sciences.

Family First

The second oldest sibling in a family of five, the now 37-year-old Omweri navigated his childhood and teenage years as a provider for his family.

“Me and my sister would do manual jobs within our village town to earn money and food for our family,” Omweri said. “I knew that this wasn’t the ceiling for me, though. Something in me told me ‘James, you can do it, keep going.’”

When Omweri went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in science education in Kenya through a government sponsorship, he was the first in his family to receive postsecondary education.

“I trained as a high school teacher and got employed by the Kenyan government to teach high school physics and chemistry, and I taught for seven years,” Omweri said.

After meeting his wife and having two kids, Omweri desired to continue his education for the betterment of his family.

Unable to receive a scholarship in Kenya, Omweri set his sights on the United States. Omweri moved to Ohio in 2017 after receiving a scholarship to study for his master’s degree in chemistry.

Inside James and Wife — James and his wife, Annan. (Photography: Jennifer Alsabrook-Turner)

Seeking a warmer environment to pursue a Ph.D. and to raise his family in, Omweri found UAB and applied to the Department of Chemistry.

Changes and Challenges

Omweri enrolled in UAB for the fall of 2020 as a doctoral student. Omweri faced not only the challenges of being a Ph.D. student but navigating the pandemic as well.

“Not being from America, there are so many things you have to learn and get used to that go beyond the realm of just being a student,” Omweri said. “Technology is not as advanced and as accessible in Kenya, so it was challenging starting my Ph.D. program trying to learn new material and meet new people without being face to face.”

In addition to adapting to the nuances of COVID life, Omweri worked as a teaching assistant. But while working through his program, Omweri would focus on his “why.”

“From the community to the infrastructure and the instrumentation, there is a place for you at UAB,” Omweri said. Learn more about finding your place at UAB here.

“My daughter would ask me all the time how much longer I would spend reading, and it was those moments that would remind me why I was studying in the first place,” Omweri said. “I wanted to be an example of encouragement for them one day as they have been thus far for me.”

To Be a Blazer

Despite the challenges of balancing being a father, learning rigorous material, doing research and adapting to new ways of life, Omweri expressed the admiration and respect he has for his mentors and professors.

Omweri joined the lab of Suzanne Lapi, Ph.D., whom he accredits largely with his success in radiochemistry.

Inside J Omweri — Photography: Jennifer Alsabrook-Turner

“If it had not been for Dr. Lapi, I wouldn’t be here today celebrating this milestone,” Omweri said. “The professors at UAB take an intent interest in making sure you succeed, and I am forever grateful for the preparation I have received and the patience that has been shown.”

Omweri says the past four years at UAB have been amazing, and looking back he appreciates the growth and opportunities UAB has provided him.

“I feel more knowledgeable and valuable,” Omweri said. “Staying focused, remembering where I come from and thinking on what God has done for me has helped get me through the challenges.”

Under Dr. Lapi’s lab, Omweri has been able to write and publish multiple research papers.

“UAB was able to match my drive and present me with opportunities that I would never have dreamed of as little boy in Kenya,” Omweri said.

After three industry offers for postgraduation opportunities, Omweri has accepted a position as a full-time radiochemist. He says UAB is the perfect place for anyone looking to expand the horizon of their future.

“I recommend to anyone interested in pursuing more education to not allow your background to deter you from chasing your goals,” Omweri said. “From the community to the infrastructure and the instrumentation, there is a place for you at UAB.”

August 8, 2024

Birmingham Times

August 9, 2024

Birmingham, Alabama, USA downtown city skyline. — 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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Ticket Seller Part Time

BJCC, is recruiting for a 1) 1. Ticket Seller Part Time, for information & to apply visit https://www.bjcc.org/jobs/ or send resume to careers@bjcc.org /fax resume 205-458-8530.

BT08/8/2024

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CityWalk Ambassador Part time

BJCC, is recruiting for a 1) 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.

BT08/8/2024

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LEGAL

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NOTICE OF COMPLETION

In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, notice is hereby given that

Comfort Systems USA Mid South, Inc. has completed the Contract for

Homewood Middle School Chiller Replacement at Homewood Middle School for the State of

Alabama and the City of Homewood, Owners, 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, 3332 Old Montgomery Highway, Suite 103, Birmingham, AL 35209, Architect.

Comfort Systems USA Mid South, Inc.

3100 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N

Birmingham, AL 35203

BT08/8/2024

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LEGAL NOTICE

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 Renovations to C-Wing and Band Storage Building at Pelham High School at Pelham, AL for the State of Alabama and the (City) of Pelham, 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

(Business Address)

BT08/8/2024

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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, 10^th 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

BT08/8/2024

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PUBLIC NOTICE

In the Circuit Court of Montgomery County, Alabama

Barlow Barbara A., Plaintiff

Barlow Harry, Defendant.

Case No.: DR-2023-000707.00

ORDER OF PUBLICATION

Upon review by the Court, the Plantiff shall be allowed to serve the Defendant by

Publication pursuant to Rule 4.3 (b) of the Alabama Rules of Civil Procedure.

Harry Barlow whose whereabouts are unknown, is required by June 27, 2024, to

answer the Petition for Divorce and or other relief requested of Barbara A. Barlow, or

thereafter, default judgment may be rendered against Harry Barlow in case

DR-2023-707, Montgomery County Circuit Court.

Dome this 17th day of April, 2024.

/s/ Monica L. Arrington Circuit Judge

BT08/8/2024

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NOTICE OF COMPLETION

In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, notice is hereby given that

Comfort Systems USA Mid South, Inc. has completed the Contract for:

Corner High School Cooling Tower Coil Replacement Bid #22-24 at Corner High School for the State of

Alabama and Jefferson County, Owners, 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: Comfort Systems USA Midsouth, 3100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd North, Birmingham, AL 35233, Contractor.

Comfort Systems USA

3100 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N

Birmingham, AL 35203

BT08/8/2024

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ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS FOR

JEFFERSON COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT

VEHICLE STORAGE FACILITY

Project Address:

3385 Happy Hollow Lane

Fultondale, AL 35068

Scope of Work: The project is for the design of a pre-engineered metal building with metal roof and wall panels and construction of the building based on the bid documents provided. The project also includes all associated site and MEP/FP work indicated in the bid documents. The building is approximately 12,000 SF and provides storage of vehicles for the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department. The project will be constructed in a single phase.

A mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held on July 29, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. CDT at Jefferson County Sheriff’s Training Center Classroom Building, 3490 Happy Hollow Lane, Fultondale, AL 35068.

Sealed proposals from the General Contractors will be received by Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office at Jefferson County Sheriff’s Training Center Classroom Building, 3490 Happy Hollow Lane, Fultondale, 35068 until 2:00 p.m. CDT on August 15, 2024, at which time and place they will be publicly opened and read.

No Bids will be accepted after 2:00 pm CDT on August 15, 2024. This requirement will not be waived. The official time will be determined by the Architect, or his designated representative.

A cashier’s check or Bid Bond payable to Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the amount of the proposal but in no event more than $10,000 must accompany the bid. Performance and Statutory Labor and Material Payment Bonds in the amount of 100% of the Contract Price will be required at the signing of the Contract.

Drawings and Project Manual will be open to public inspection beginning July 22, 2024, at the offices of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office; CMH Architects, Inc.; Birmingham Construction Industry Authority (BCIA); Dodge Data and Analytics; and ConstructConnect. Bidders must call the Owner and Architect’s office at least 24 hours in advance to arrange a time to review the documents. These documents cannot be removed from the Owner’s or Architect’s office, nor will any copies of these documents be provided to bidders.

Bid Documents must be obtained from the Architect upon deposit of $150.00 per set. Said deposit will be refunded to unsuccessful bidders if the bid drawings and specs are returned to the Architect, complete and in good condition, within 10 calendar days of the bid date. Following purchase of the initial set, Bidder will be provided with PDFs of the Bid Documents for reproduction of additional sets at Bidder’s discretion and cost.

The project is being bid EXCLUDING TAXES and requires the Contractor to comply with the requirements of Act 2013-205, which was signed into law May 19, 2013. The Contractor and Owner will be required to apply for Certificates of Exemption with the Alabama Department of Revenue, which will handle the administration of the certificates. The Contractor shall account for the tax savings on the Accounting of Sales Tax form included in the specification behind the proposal form. Failure for the Contractor to complete and include this form with their proposal shall render the bid non-responsive.

The general contractor awarded the project shall be responsible for paying all Project Permit Fees.

All bidders must submit three (3) copies of their bids on proposal forms furnished by the Architect or copies thereof. All bidders bidding in amounts exceeding that established by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975 and must show evidence of license before bidding or bid will not be received or considered by the Architect; the bidder shall show such evidence by clearly displaying his or her current license number on the outside of the sealed envelope in which the proposal is delivered. The successful bidder must provide evidence of enrollment in the E-Verify program per The Alabama Immigration Law (also referred to as “Act 2011-535” and codified in state law as Title 31, Chapter 13 of the Code of Alabama 1975) and amended by Act No. 2012-491 (2012) before awarding of contract. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive technical errors if, in the Owner’s judgement, the best interest of the Owner will thereby be promoted.

Performance time: The project is a single-phase project and is to be substantially complete within 250 calendar days from Notice to Proceed. Liquidated damages apply to this project per the Supplementary Conditions.

Awarding Authority:

Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office

2200 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd

Birmingham, AL 35203

Architect:

CMH Architects, Inc.

1800 International Park Drive, Suite 300

Birmingham, Alabama 35243

Tel. (205) 969-2696

Fax. (205) 969-3930

BT08/8/2024

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INVITATION FOR BIDS

ITB# 48-24 “ARC Flash Study Analysis and Repair”

JEFFERSON COUNTY, AL

Bids will be received by the Jefferson County Commission Purchasing Agent Michael D. Matthews, Ph.D., C.P.M. , until 4:00 (CST) p.m. on 8/20/2024, for ARC Flash Study, Analysis and Repair. A public opening and a virtual Bid opening will be held 8/21/2024 at 10:00 a.m. at 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North, Suite 830, Birmingham, Alabama 35203.

The Jefferson County Commission Department of General Services desires to enter into an agreement with a Contractor for ARC Flash Studies and Analysis for 14 locations within Jefferson County to study, provide analysis and repair of the power systems.

All Solicitation information including forms, and specifications are available for download free at https://jeffcobids.jccal.org/Search.aspx

Prequalification is not required.

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 100% of the contract price.

All questions must be submitted in writing to procurementservices@jccal.org

attention Harriett Bell.

A Pre-bid conference will be held on Thursday, August 8, 2024 at 10:00 am (CST) at 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. North, Suite 830, Birmingham, Alabama 35203. For special accommodation please call 205-325-5381.

BT08/8/2024

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ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Sealed proposals will be received by the Alabama Community College System at Southern Union State Community College, Center for Integrated Manufacturing Class Room 227, 301 Lake Condy Rd. Opelika, AL 36801 until 2:00 p.m. CST Tuesday, August 20, 2024, for Southern Union State Community College, Hangar Training Facility – Auburn University Airport at which time and place they will be publicly opened and read.

A cashier’s check or bid bond payable to Alabama Community College System in an amount not less than five (5) percent of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000, must accompany the bidder’s proposal. Performance and Payment Bonds and evidence of insurance required in the bid documents will be required at the signing of the Contract.

Drawings and specifications may be examined at the office of Williams Blackstock Architects at 2204 1^st Avenue South, Suite 200, Birmingham, AL 35233 starting on July 23, 2024. Digital documents will be available for examination at Alabama Graphics Digital Plan Room. (https://www.algraphicsplanroom.com/)

Bid Documents may be obtained from Alabama Graphics upon deposit of $150 per set made payable to Williams Blackstock Architects and held at Alabama Graphics. The deposit will be refunded in full on the first 2 sets issued to each general contract bidder submitting a bonafide bid, upon return of documents in good condition within ten days of bid date. Other sets for general contractors, and sets for subcontractors and dealers, may be obtained with the same deposit, which will be refunded as above, less cost of printing, reproduction, handling, and distribution.

Bids must be submitted on proposal forms furnished by the Architect or copies thereof. All bidders bidding in amounts exceeding that established by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975, and must show evidence of license before bidding or bid will not be received or considered by the Architect (Engineer); the bidder shall show such evidence by clearly displaying his or her current license number on the outside of the sealed envelope in which the proposal is delivered. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive technical errors if, in the Owner’s judgement, the best interests of the Owner will thereby be promoted.

A Pre-Bid Conference will be held on Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at 2:00 pm CST at Southern Union State Community College, Center for Integrated Manufacturing Class Room 227, 301 Lake Condy Rd. Opelika, AL 36801. A walkthrough of the site will be conducted at the end of the meeting. The pre-bid conference is not mandatory but encouraged.

Architect:

Williams Blackstock Architects

Kyle R. Franklin, Jr.

2204 1st Avenue South, Suite 200

Birmingham, AL 35233

Phone: (205) 252-9811

kyle@wba-architects.com

Owner:

Southern Union State Community College

Ben Jordan

301 Lake Condy Rd.

Opelika, AL 36801

Phone: (256) 395-2211

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Request For Qualifications (RFQ)

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 31^st, 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 15^th, 2024, at 2:00 P.M. local time via Zoom.

BT08/8/2024

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To: Terry Lee Rayer II, the putative father of A.J.M., a minor, whose whereabouts are unknown; and to any other person claiming to be the legal father or putative father of A.J.M., a minor.

Please take notice that Petitioner Hunter Preston Floyd has filed with this Court a Petition for Step-Parent Adoption to adopt A.J.M., a boy born to Jessica Nicole Mentzer on November 9, 2020 in Alabaster, Shelby County, Alabama. As a notified party, you may appear in the adoption proceedings to contest or support the Petition for Step-Parent Adoption.

Please be advised that if you intend to contest this adoption, you must file a written response within thirty (30) days from the last day this Notice of Adoption Proceedings is published with the attorney for said Petitioner, whose name and address is Rebbca Lee, 71A Town Center Drive NW, Huntsville, AL 35806, and with the Chief Clerk of Limestone County Probate Court at 100 South Clinton Street, Suite D, Athens, AL 35611. If you fail to respond within said thirty (30) days, the Court may construe that failure as an implied consent to the adoption and as a waiver of a right to appear and of further notice of the adoption proceedings. If the adoption is approved, your parental rights, if any, will be considered terminated.

MAYBE <<<<

BT08/1/2024

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Legal Notice

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

BT08/8/2024

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INVITATION TO BID

Sealed Bids for construction of the Paul B. Krebs Water Treatment Plant – Sodium Hypochlorite Conversion will be received at the office of The Water Works and Sewer Board of Anniston, Alabama, (Owner), 931 Noble Street, Suite 100, Anniston, AL 36201, until 10 a.m., local time, on Thursday, August 29, 2024. Any Bids received after the specified time will not be considered.

Bids will then be publicly opened and read.

The Project contemplated consists of:

1. Installation of new polyethylene hypochlorite tanks and corresponding instrumentation and sensors.

2. Installation of a new steel canopy over the hypochlorite tanks along with lighting system.

3. Construction of a new concrete slab and equipment pads for the new hypochlorite tanks.

4. Demolition of an existing chlorine scrubber, concrete slab, and masonry screen wall surrounding the scrubber.

5. Installation of a new chemical fill panel.

6. Installation of a new emergency shower and eye wash station including required plumbing modifications.

7. Installation of new chemical feed pumps, piping, instrumentation, and chemical injection vault.

8. Relocation of existing generator, including reconnection to the existing power system.

9. Relocation and reconnection of the existing gas line and meter entering the water treatment plant.

The Work will be substantially completed within 270 days and completed in all respects within 300 calendar days from the date when the Contract Times commence to run.

Bidding Documents may be examined at the Engineer’s office, Jacobs, 1 Perimeter Park South, Suite 315 N, Birmingham, Alabama 35243. Electronic Bidding Documents may be viewed and downloaded by registering with QuestCDN online at www.questcdn.com. To view and download digital documents for this project at QuestCDN.com, login or sign up for a free membership within the website’s Bidders Tab. Navigate to the digital bidding documents by inputting the Quest Project No. 9240269 on the Project Search page. The digital bidding documents can be viewed for free or downloaded for a non-refundable charge of $22. Any addenda will be posted digitally on the project’s website via QuestCDN.com. It is the responsibility of the Bidder to print hard copies of the sets. No partial sets, individual pages, or drawing sheets will be provided.

Each Bid must be submitted on the prescribed Bid Form and accompanied by Bid security as prescribed in the Instructions to Bidders.

The Successful Bidder will be required to furnish the additional bond(s) and insurance prescribed in the Bidding Documents.

The Owner will only accept Proposals from contractors duly licensed by the Alabama State Licensing Board for General Contractors as required by applicable Alabama law, including without limitation Ala. Code § 34-8-1, et seq., Bidders’ Alabama General Contractor License Number shall appear on the outside of the envelope containing such bid prior to opening.

For information concerning the proposed Work, contact Dustin Harris, Jacobs, 205-960-3788.

Attendance at a prebid conference will be a mandatory requirement of submitting a Bid for this Project. The mandatory prebid meeting will be held on Thursday, August 20, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at the office of the Owner (931 Noble Street, Suite 100, Anniston, AL). The meeting will be followed by a visit to the site.

Owner’s right is reserved to reject all Bids or any Bid not conforming to the intent and purpose of the Bidding Documents.

In compliance with the BEASON-HAMMON ALABAMA TAXPAYER AND CITIZEN ACT, the successful bidder will be required to submit proof of Immigration Compliance as the law applies. The following language is required by § 31- 13-9 (k) Code of Alabama 1975 to be placed in all contracts covered by the Act: “By signing this contract, the contracting parties affirm, for the duration of the agreement, that they will not violate federal immigration law or knowingly employ, hire for employment, or continue to employ an unauthorized alien within the state of Alabama. Furthermore, a contracting party found to be in violation of this provision shall be deemed in breach of the agreement and shall be responsible for all damages resulting therefrom.”

The Water Works and Sewer Board of the City of Anniston, Alabama

Clif Osborne

Project Manager

BT08/8/2024

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THE WATER WORKS BOARD OF THE CITY OF BIRMINGHAM

______________________________________________________________________________

SARDIS ROAD REINFORCEMENT

Project Number(s): P.04209

Capital Budget Number(s): 1D & 1E

__________________________________________________________________________

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

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, 1^st Floor Main Office Building (3600 1^st 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

E-mail: doug.stockham@bwwb.org

Secondary Contact:

Ms. Janice Acoff

Telephone: (205) 244-4265

Facsimile: (205) 244-4765

E-mail: janice.acoff@bwwb.org

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LEGAL NOTICE

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

(Business Address)

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ADVERTISEMENT FOR COMPLETION LEGAL NOTICE

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 6^th 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.

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ADVERTISEMENT FOR COMPLETION LEGAL NOTICE

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 6^th 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.

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LEGAL NOTICE

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

(Business Address)

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The Birmingham Airport Authority (“BAA” or “Authority”) is requesting proposals (RFP) for the Operation and Maintenance Service Agreement of the Baggage Handling System (BHS) and Passenger Boarding Bridges (PBB) at the Birmingham Shuttleworth International Airport. A Mandatory Pre-Bid meeting followed by a non-mandatory site visit is scheduled for Friday August 19, at 2 pm Central Time. All interested should RSVP to Ed Seoane at eseoane@flybhm.com no later than 2:00 PM on Friday, August 16, 2024. Meeting will be held in Meeting Room A, Lower Terminal Lobby (south end near Entry Door 4L) Note Single use Parking Deck validations will be provided to attendees at the meeting.

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PUBLIC NOTICE: Cellco Partnership and its controlled affiliates doing business as Verizon Wireless (Verizon Wireless) is proposing to collocate antenna on a 43-ft replacement light pole located at 502 20th St S in Birmingham, Jefferson County, AL 35233 (33° 30′ 28.930″ North, 86° 48′ 5.551″ West). Public comments regarding potential effects from this site on historic properties may be submitted within 30-days from the date of this publication to J. Wood, Terracon, 2105 Newpoint Place, Suite 600, Lawrenceville, GA 30043; 770-623-0755; jkwood@terracon.com. Terracon Reference No.: 49247574.

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ADVERTISEMENT FOR A/E REQUEST FOR STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS

DATE: August 1, 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 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, 2:00pm

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.

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Bid Proposal for Various Goods and Services

Notice is hereby given by the City of Talladega that Sealed Bids will be accepted on or before 10:00 AM, Thursday, August 22, 2024, at the City of Talladega, located at 255 South Street West, Talladega, AL 35160, for the goods and services listed below. Bids will be opened and read in the Council Chambers of City Hall on the above-referenced date and time. Information Packets may be obtained by emailing requests to talladegabids@talladega.com. Contact Andrea Garrett with any questions at 256-362-8186 ext. 1078 Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM.

Aviation Jet Fuel

Fleet Maintenance

Ground Maintenance- Water Facilities

HVAC Maintenance

Oak Hill Cemetery

Nusiance Overgrown Lots

Personal Protective Equipment – Fire Fighter Equipment

Petroleum

Stone Products

Water Treatment Chemicals

Water Construction Supplies

Work Uniforms

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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 20^th 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.

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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 20^th St, Birmingham, AL 35203. The Birmingham Land Bank Authority may be contacted care of Jake A. Kiser at (205) 918-5037.

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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

The address of the Birmingham Land Bank Authority is City Hall, 710 North 20^th St, Birmingham, AL 35203. The Birmingham Land Bank Authority may be contacted care of Jake A. Kiser at (205) 918-5037.

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NOTICE OF OPEN SEASON FOR RECEIPT OF PROGRAM YEAR 2025-2026 APPLICATIONS FOR GRANTS FROM THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM AND THE EMERGENCY SOLUTIONS GRANT (HOMELESS) PROGRAM FOR JEFFERSON COUNTY, ALABAMA AND INFORMATION REGARDING HOME PROGRAM ACTIVITIES

Please be advised that the Jefferson County Office of Community Services will receive Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) applications from municipalities, non-profit organizations, and citizens groups located in Jefferson County, Alabama outside the cities of Birmingham, Bessemer, Helena, and Sumiton. Information pertaining to proposal content is available upon request from the Jefferson County Office of Community Services; 716 Richard Arrington, Jr. Blvd. North, Suite A-430, Birmingham, AL 35203. Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) applications are received from approved local non-profit providers of homeless assistance in Jefferson County. All CDBG applications and ESG applications must be received (in hand) in the Office of Community Services by 5:00 PM on January 31, 2025.

Applications for housing rehabilitation for homeowners will be due by 5:00 PM on February 28, 2025. Applications submitted for previous years but not funded must be resubmitted to be considered.

In accordance with Jefferson County’s Citizen Participation Plan and HUD’s regulatory requirement waivers, a series of virtual public hearings will be held and to encourage submission of qualified applications, all applicants must attend one of the following virtual meetings:

Day Date Time

Thursday 08/29/2024 10:00 a.m.

Tuesday 09/24/2024 6:00 p.m.

Thursday 10/24/2024 6:00 p.m.

Tuesday 11/19/2024 10:00 a.m.

Those wishing to attend must pre-register with the Department of Community Services no later than 12:00 noon the day before the event via email: mappp@jccal.org or voicemail, 205-325-5761, extension 1931. Individuals must provide their name, organization, address, telephone number, and email.

Those needing to attend in person can attend the August 29, 2024, or November 19, 2024, meeting at the Jefferson County Courthouse located at 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd N, Suite A-420.

Information will also be provided regarding proposed activities funded under the HOME Program, affordable housing opportunities, housing counseling and Fair Housing. Jefferson County is an Equal Housing Opportunity provider.

Special accommodations are available, upon request, for those with disabilities and for those with limited English proficiency. Those requiring special accommodation should call 205-325-5761 in advance for assistance. The Jefferson County Office of Community Services is located at 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd North, Suite A-430, Birmingham, AL 35203.

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PUBLIC NOTICE

THE JEFFERSON COUNTY CONSORTIUM

PROPOSED 2024-25 ONE-YEAR ACTION PLAN

REGARDING COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS IS AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW AND PUBLIC COMMENT.

Regarding the proposed 2024-2025 One-Year Action Plan, Jefferson County held a Technical Advisory Committee meeting for community partners at 10:00 AM on July 11, 2024, in Room A-430, followed by a public hearing on July 16, 2024, at 10:00 AM in Room 200 of the Jefferson County Courthouse located at 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd N, Birmingham, AL 35204.

AVAILABILITY OF THE PROPOSED ONE-YEAR ACTION PLAN

Copies of proposed One-Year Action Plan may also be reviewed online at (Community Development (Plans and Policies) – Jefferson County, Alabama), or by calling 205-325-5761. Copies will also be provided to the 34 participating consortium cities: Adamsville, Argo, Brighton, Brookside, Cardiff, Center Point, Clay, County Line, Fairfield, Fultondale, Gardendale, Graysville, Homewood, Hoover, Hueytown, Irondale, Kimberly, Leeds, Lipscomb, Maytown, Midfield, Morris, Mountain Brook, Mulga, North Johns, Pinson, Pleasant Grove, Sylvan Springs, Tarrant, Trafford, Trussville, Vestavia Hills, Warrior, and West Jefferson.

Community Development (Plans and Policies) – Jefferson County, Alabama

The Official Website of Jefferson County, Alabama

Comments must be submitted prior to 5:00 p.m. on August 12, 2024. Written comments must be submitted to the following:

Jefferson County Department of Community Services

716 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N, Ste. A-430

Birmingham, AL 35203

Attn: Annual Action Plan Comments

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ADVERTISEMENT for BIDDER PRE-QUALIFICATION

And NOTICE of INTENT to RECEIVE BIDS

from PREQUALIFIED BIDDERS

Pre-qualification submittals will be received by the Owner’s Representative/Project Manager,
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

stacyw@bparchitects.com

C.            BIDS BY PRE-QUALIFIED PRIME GENERAL CONTRACTOR BIDDERS

Documents:

After notice to pre-qualified bidders is given, the pre-qualified prime contractor bidders may obtain bid documents from the Architect (see address above) upon deposit of $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

BT08/8/2024

______________________________

The Birmingham Airport Authority (“BAA” or “Authority”) is requesting proposals (RFP) for quarterly inspection of CCTV, Access, and Control Systems at the Birmingham Shuttleworth International Airport. The goal of this procurement effort is to enter a contract with the best-valued Contractor to perform the annual inspections. A Pre-Bid meeting followed by a non-mandatory site visit is scheduled for August 21, at 2 pm Central Time. All interested should RSVP to Ed Seoane at eseoane@flybhm.com no later than 2:00 PM on August 20, 2024. Meeting will be held in Meeting Room A, Lower Terminal Lobby (south end near Entry Door 4L) Note Single use Parking Deck validations will be provided to attendees at the meeting.

BT08/8/2024

______________________________

As DNC Nears, Alabama Becomes Battleground For Some Democrats — Among Themselves

Birmingham Times

August 9, 2024

Election 2024 Convention Planning — Media attend a Democratic National Convention walk through at the United Center in Chicago earlier this year. (Pablo Martinez Monsiváis, AP)

By Barnett Wright | The Birmingham Times

Alabama has turned into a battleground state in the 2024 presidential election, but the fight is not between Democrats and Republicans, but some Democrats at the state and national level.

The clash comes less than two weeks before the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago where Vice President Kamala Harris has secured enough delegates to be the party’s presidential nominee against Republican Donald Trump.

In July, Alabama’s delegates voted unanimously to endorse Harris as the Democratic nominee for president. The state has 52 delegates, plus four alternates.

However, Randy Kelley, chair of the Alabama State Democratic Party, has accused the DNC of engaging in “shenanigans” by appointing delegates to the party’s upcoming convention rather than allowing Alabama Democrats to elect their preferred delegate candidates.

Jamie Harrison, chair of the Democratic National Committee, in a letter dated August 1, 2024, warned Kelley to “refrain from any further miscommunication or misinformation to convention participants” regarding the “status of Alabama’s delegation to the National Convention” in Chicago from Aug. 19-22.

Kelley denied there was any “misinformation” but a national party that “handpicked” delegates that the people of Alabama did not get a chance to vote on, he told The Times on Thursday. “No other [state] party in the history of the Democratic National Committee has been robbed of all delegates,” Kelley said. “… this is unprecedented.”

Harrison wrote that the Credentials Committee of the DNC on July 21, 2024, credentialed “the duly elected” Alabama district-level delegates to the convention.

Kelley told The Times that Alabama is “the only state in the Democratic Party and territories where we didn’t vote on a single delegate … the Democratic Party says it stands for a free and fair elections, [but] delegates were picked by some forces inside our party in the state along with people who don’t even live in Alabama,” Kelley said.

Friction between Alabama Democrats and between the Alabama Democratic Party and the national party is not new, AL.com has reported. Five years ago, then-U.S. Sen. Doug Jones, backed by the DNC, joined with a faction of the state party to approve new by-laws and replace longtime Chairman Nancy Worley, a Joe Reed ally, with state Rep. Chris England.

Reed is a longtime party leader and chairman of the Alabama Democratic Conference, the party’s most influential Black organization,

Control flipped back in 2022 when the State Democratic Executive Committee elected Kelley as chairman with the backing of Reed and the Alabama Democratic Conference.

The state party was supposed to elect delegates on June 8. However, the party failed to reach a quorum on their meeting that day, so the state’s delegation selected those positions, according to a statement by the DNC.

In the event a delegate was not approved, the Biden campaign selected a replacement.

Kelley said he and his supporters, who include Reed, have petitioned to go before the Credentials Committee in Chicago with their concerns. However, DNC Chair Harrison may have signaled that door has closed.

In his Aug. 1 letter to Kelley, Harrison wrote, “There are no pending credentials challenges and the window to file challenges has long passed … We look forward to supporting our Presidential and Vice Presidential nominees in Chicago and hope you will join us in working together to support the Democratic Party and our shared successes in November.”

The City of Birmingham Offering Free Recycling Carts for Residents

Birmingham Times

August 9, 2024

happy woman with bottles sorting glass waste — Beginning today, August 9, Birmingham residents can register to receive one of 5,100 new 64-gallon recycling carts. (Adobe Stock)

City of Birmingham

The City of Birmingham is launching the second phase of its new recycling cart program. Beginning Friday, August 9, residents can register to receive one of 5,100 new 64-gallon recycling carts. This is part of the city’s initiative to support the reduction of waste sent to landfills, conserve natural resources, and prevent pollution.

There are two ways to register to receive a cart:

On August 9, during the City’s Food Truck Friday event in front of City Hall, residents can come in person from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. to complete a form.
Residents can sign up online anytime here.

The first phase of the city’s recycling initiative kicked off in 2020 with a pilot program. Now, in this new phase, carts will be made available citywide and distributed, starting in mid-August for those who sign up.

Once a resident completes and submits the form, they will be redirected to a confirmation page that includes information about what items are acceptable for recycling. Then, upon verification of their address and approval of their application, a cart will be delivered within two weeks.

The free carts are available while supplies last. They are only available for Birmingham residents; and only one cart is available per household. Businesses or residents of multi-dwelling units are not eligible to participate.

City of Birmingham recycling days are on the first and third Wednesday of each month. On weeks with city holidays, pickup may be rescheduled to the Wednesday of the following week. The first recycling date for the new carts will begin Wednesday, Sept. 11. Until then, residents should continue to use their old recycling methods.

Email your questions to recycle@birminghamal.gov. For more information of what’s allowed for recycling and what is not, visit www.birminghamal.gov/recycle.

The Return of Birmingham’s Roy Wood Jr.; Comedian to Host News and Comedy Series on CNN

Birmingham Times

August 9, 2024

RoyWoodJr1006 — Roy Wood Jr., formerly a high-profile correspondent on “The Daily Show,” is set to host a new series on CNN, “Have I Got News For You.” (File)

By Mary Colurso | mcolurso@al.com

If you’ve missed seeing Roy Wood Jr. on television, the wait will soon be over. The comedian from Alabama, formerly a high-profile correspondent on “The Daily Show,” is set to host a new series on CNN, “Have I Got News For You.”

Wood, 45, confirmed his new job on Thursday via social media, after reports by Deadline, The Hollywood Reporter and other media outlets. “Mortimer …. we’re back!,” the comedian posted on Instagram, along with a photo referencing the story on Deadline. (With the “Mortimer” quip, Wood was referencing a line from the 1988 movie “Coming to America.”) “See you all Saturday nights on CNN starting in September,” he posted.

The show is CNN’s version of a popular British series, featuring two teams of panelists who answer questions about that week’s news. “Have I Got News For You” also relies heavily on humor, with the host and panelists relying on “comic observations from the satirical to the surreal through the lens of a news quiz show,” as Deadline said. Ian Hislop and Paul Merton are team captains for the BBC version, and Wood will be joined by two team captains for the CNN version, with names TBA.

Ten episodes are planned for CNN’s limited series, scheduled to premiere on Sept. 14 and airing on Saturdays at 9 p.m. ET. Episodes will stream on MAX the following day. Hat Trick Productions, the company behind the BBC original, is set to produce the new show for CNN Originals.

“For far too long immigrants have been coming to America and taking Black jobs, kudos to CNN and the immigrants at Hat Trick Productions for bringing a Black job to the States,” Wood said in a statement, poking fun at Donald Trump’s “Black jobs” remark during the June presidential debate. “It is an honor to be a part of such a hallowed British institution to help make sense of the American institutions of chaos, name calling, disinformation, reality television and the 8-hour news cycle.”

Wood has a new stand-up special for Hulu on his agenda, as well, with a taping planned in September at the Lincoln Theater in Washington DC., according to Variety. He’s also been writing a memoir, “The Man of Many Fathers.”

The comedian, who’s also a writer, actor and producer, spent eight years as a correspondent on “The Daily Show,” 2015-2023. He served as one of the guest hosts for the series on Comedy Central in April 2023, after host Trevor Noah made an exit in 2022. Wood initially was reported to be short-listed as a replacement for Noah, but he left “The Daily Show” in fall 2023, saying he wanted to pursue other opportunities and “whatever else the comedy gods may have in store for me in 2024 and beyond.”

Wood had another major showcase last year, as the featured entertainer for the 2023 White House Correspondents’ Dinner. Headlining the dinner in D.C. is a plum assignment for any comedian, as the proceedings are nationally televised and often go viral in politics and entertainment.

Wood, who grew up in Birmingham, has been building a career in comedy since the late ‘90s, when he started working as a standup while majoring in broadcast journalism at Florida A&M University. During the early 2000s, Wood emerged as a quick-witted jokester making prank phone calls on radio station 95.7 JAMZ.

Wood’s resume also includes a 2010 stint as a contestant on “Last Comic Standing,” a role on the sitcom “Sullivan & Son,” appearances on late-night talk shows, comedy specials and albums, movie roles, podcasts and more.

Wood’s journalism roots run deep, as well. His father, Roy Wood Sr. (1915-1995), was a radio and TV journalist who covered the civil rights movement, the Vietnam War and more. Wood paid tribute to his father with a Twitter thread in 2020 for Father’s Day, lauding his achievements and calling his resume in civil rights journalism “very unsung.”

Wood also hosted a 2024 podcast linked to his hometown, “Road to Rickwood,” exploring the history of historic Rickwood Field and the Negro Leagues in Birmingham. The narrative series from National Public Radio and Major League Baseball spanned five episodes, late May through mid-July.

How ASFA’s Germaul Barnes Became the Renowned ‘Global Dance Maker’

Birmingham Times

August 8, 2024

fav 2dancers-11 — Germaul Barnes, an award-winning dancer and choreographer at the Alabama School of Fine Arts (ASFA), has traveled the world but now calls Birmingham home. (Marika N. Johnson, For The Birmingham Times)

By Javacia Harris Bowser | For The Birmingham Times

Germaul Barnes describes himself as a “Global Dance Maker.”

An award-winning dancer and choreographer, Barnes’ work has been presented on stages around the world, in countries like Canada, England, and Poland. He’s danced in numerous cities, including Paris, France, and Tokyo, Japan.

But, since 2019, Barnes has proudly called Birmingham, Alabama, home. The Phoenix, Arizona, native who previously lived in New York for 24 years, came to The Magic City to teach dance at the Alabama School of Fine Arts (ASFA).

“There comes a time as a choreographer, as a dancer, when you sit to evaluate the longevity of a career and what is valuable,” Barnes said.

Reflecting on time he’d spent working with emerging dancers across the U.S. and around the world, Barnes knew he loved to teach.

“I really enjoyed passing on the information that was given to me, [though] sometimes I even still question, ‘Why me?’ I’ve been very fortunate to work with some of the legends of modern dance,” including icons like Katherine Dunham, Eleo Pomare, and Arthur Mitchell, he said.

Barnes, 53, has taught at Yale University, in New Haven, Connecticut; the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, in Champaign, Illinois; and Skidmore College, in Saratoga Springs, New York.

Germaul Barnes, an award-winning dancer and choreographer at the Alabama School of Fine Arts (ASFA), has traveled the world but now calls Birmingham home. (Marika N. Johnson, For The Birmingham Times)

Nurturing In The Classroom And Beyond

“I love to see how I can help dancers become artists and be good people in society,” he said. “For me, teaching dance is just a gateway of how to help young people be great adults.”

And that is his goal at ASFA, which begins its fall semester on August 12.

The school, located downtown Birmingham, is a state-funded, tuition-free public school that provides an intensive education in the arts, math, and science to students from across Alabama.

After spending each morning in core academic classes that exceed state high school diploma standards, ASFA students devote their afternoons to honing their craft in one of six specialties: creative writing, dance, music, theater, visual arts, or math and science.

Students at the school consistently receive recognition in competitions in the arts and in academics at the state, regional, and national levels. Furthermore, in the past five years, 91 percent of ASFA’s graduating seniors have received merit scholarships for study at colleges, universities, and conservatories.

Barnes is only the second Black full-time dance instructor at ASFA in the school’s 53-year history. Mimi Twyman, who taught at ASFA from 1992 until her retirement in 2011, was the first Black dancer and choreographer to teach full-time at ASFA.

Twyman said of Barnes, “During the time I was teaching, I was exposing the students to other genres of dance that they were not accustomed to, and his ideas were an extension of what I was trying to do.”

But this is just one of the reasons Twyman believes ASFA students are lucky to have Barnes—or “Mr. Gee,” as the students call him—as a teacher.

“[Barnes] is a choreographer that allows students to be part of the process, which gives the students some ownership to the piece,” she said. “As an educator, he nurtures the students not just in class but beyond, guiding them to places outside Alabama, to conferences, workshops and performances to further expose them to the larger global world of dance.

“ASFA students are very fortunate to have him as an instructor. He offers so much to the department through his knowledge of dance and his experience as a professional dancer that has been there and done that,” she added.

Leaning into his “Global Dance Maker” moniker, Barnes strives to expose ASFA students to a wide variety of dance styles through his World Dance series. He’s brought in African dance instructors and choreographers and Afro Caribbean artists from countries like Barbados.

“It’s important to expose our students to a broad range of cultures and understanding and acceptance,” said Barnes. “That only helps them expand themselves as people.”

Students like Hannah French, who graduated from ASFA in May 2024 and plans to start studying dance at New York University in the fall, said Barnes not only expanded her dance knowledge but also imparted life wisdom.

“He has taught me [and] his other students valuable lessons not only in the studio but outside the studio, as well,” French said. “Mr. Gee has always been there for advice on navigating life and is a teacher that students feel comfortable going to when they need guidance. He is open, he is kind, he is inspiring, and he is a teacher who believes in his students and sees everyone’s potential. I am so grateful for all that Mr. Gee has poured into me and the wisdom he has imparted that will impact me for the rest of my life.”

From left: Ciara Martin, Eryn Cade, Ally Campbell, Zoey Jenkins, Germaul Barnes, Nicholas Thacker, Daniel Hernandez, Cedrick Scruggs. (Marika N. Johnson, For The Birmingham Times)

“I Knew I Was Going To Be A Dancer”

Born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, Barnes can’t remember a time in his life when he wasn’t dancing.

“My late mother would say I was dancing as a fetus,” Barnes shared with a laugh.

He still has fond memories of dancing in his family’s living room to songs by artists like Michael Jackson, The Jackson 5, Peaches & Herb, and Earth, Wind & Fire. He also loved the syndicated television series Solid Gold, a music show that featured the biggest artists of the moment.

Recognizing her son’s natural talent, Barnes’ mother, Sandra Sykes, who passed away in December 2018, sought out free dance programs at the local parks and recreation department. At the age of 7, Barnes enrolled in a dance class that taught him several dance styles, including jazz, tap, ballet, and even disco.

“And from that point on, I just knew that I was going to be a dancer,” he said.

Barnes, his youngest sister, Serena, and a friend from the neighborhood formed a group they called “The Little Bits.” The trio won all the community talent shows and were even featured on local TV.

“My mom would stay up for hours making our costumes,” Barnes recalled.

His mother was also active in local demonstrations meant to amplify the voices of Phoenix’s small Black community. Barnes still has a photo of himself and The Little Bits in a march for Juneteenth, the celebration of the end of slavery in the U.S.

Barnes went on to attend the Center of Performing Arts at South Mountain High School in Phoenix, a school like ASFA. He also studied with the Phoenix School of Ballet and Ballet Arizona before continuing his dance training at the University of the Arts, a private arts university in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, which closed in June of this year.

The Seven-Year Interview

Acclaimed dancer, choreographer, and instructor Teri Weksler first brought Barnes to Birmingham to set a work for Southern DanceWorks, for which she served as artistic director from 1997 to 2021. When Weksler became a full-time instructor at ASFA, she invited Barnes to visit as a guest artist each year.

“That was seven years prior to getting the [full-time job at ASFA], so I said I had a seven-year interview,” Barnes said.

During those seven years, he learned that ASFA was a good fit.

“It’s a wonderful institution that supports teachers and encourages instructors to stay in the professional world because they see that it’s valuable to know what is out there and bring back the information to the students,” Barnes said of ASFA. “I found that most institutions might have that in their mission statements—that they want to encourage their instructors to continue being professionals—but they don’t actually do it. ASFA has it in the mission statement, and they’re about it.”

In the early part of his professional career, Germaul Barnes, 53, performed with a host of companies. (Marika N. Johnson, For The Birmingham Times)

World Traveler, World renown

Whether at Alabama School of Fines Arts (ASFA) or halfway around the world, Barnes believes dancers are like anthropologists or archivists whose work should reflect the issues of the time. In his work, he unapologetically explores the challenges people of color face today. Yet, he also strives to infuse optimism and joy in his choreography.

“As a Black artist, I am interested in telling a narrative of the Black experience through a sense of pride, not ‘woe, me’ all the time,” Barnes said.

After decades of dancing with various companies, Barnes said he realized that he’d lost that joy he felt as a kid dancing in the living room to the sounds of Michael Jackson and the syndicated music television series Solid Gold, a music show that featured the biggest artists of the moment.

“The groove, the naturalness, was lost because I was so into these Eurocentric ideas of what a dancer was,” he said.

So, he went to the studio determined to fan the flames of the joy that he once found in dance. And he embeds this in his choreography and teaching techniques.

“In my technique, with different exercises and lots of conversation and self-evaluation, we ignite joy through the physical and mental space that allows dancers to retain a sense of exuberance for what they’re doing,” he said.

An Impressive Resume

In the early part of his professional career, Barnes performed with a host of companies. In 1995 he started dancing with Bill T. Jones/Arine Zand Dance Company, which he’s worked with for nearly 30 years. After retiring from dancing with the company in 2005, Barnes began restaging works of Jones. He’s currently working on a restaging for the University of Alabama, bringing Jones’ work to the state of Alabama for the first time.

Barnes serves as a choreographer adviser for One Dance-UK’s – Dance of the African Diaspora and Movement Research. He’s worked with dance companies in Russia and Spain, too.

He’s the curator of Contemporary Improvisation for Black Men, a program that uses dance to bring together Black men across generations.

Barnes also served as the choreographer for “Bob Marley: A Musical,” which premiered in 2015 at Center Stage in Baltimore, MD.

“That was the first commercial contract that I’d ever gotten so when they said to have your people contact my people, I had to go and find some,” Barnes said with a hearty laugh. “I was very excited. I love Bob Marley and I’ve always like connected with his message.”

Full Circle

Dance has afforded Barnes the pleasure of being “in every continent of the world except for Antarctica,” he said. “And this is a little boy from the projects of Arizona.”

Despite all his accomplishments, Barnes said the highlights of his dance life were dancing in a park in Arizona for his aunt’s 90th birthday in November of 2018 and performing at block parties in Brooklyn when he lived there.

Barnes may travel the world, but he still deeply cares about the places he calls home.

Coming full circle, Barnes is now artistic director of Southern DanceWorks, the company that first brought him to Birmingham. Barnes is striving to breathe new life into the 60-year-old company.

“I hope that Southern DanceWorks can help with a contemporary identity of not only Alabama, but of the South,” he said. “I’m hoping that this company is lending to that fabric of the new identity of Birmingham.”

Southern DanceWorks will present “Lurks Behind,” a new dance performance rooted in the rich history of Birmingham’s 99 neighborhoods, on Sunday, August 25 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the City Walk BHAM Amphitheater (Green Block, Behind the Birmingham Museum of Art).

The production explores topics such as food insecurity, home ownership, and community pride. “Lurks Behind” is a free public event. To learn more and to support Southern DanceWorks in their commitment to making dance accessible and relevant, visit southern-danceworks.com/support.

Full disclosure: Javacia Harris Bowser is a graduate of the Alabama School of Fine Arts and taught English at the school from 2009- 2019.

The Life and Teaching Lessons of Kimberly Strickland, aka Kim Scott, Accomplished Classical Flutist

Birmingham Times

August 8, 2024

_DSC2090 — Kimberly Strickland serves as Director of Student Services at the Alabama School of Fine Arts (ASFA) in Birmingham and is also an accomplished classical flutist, Billboard chart-topping jazz musician who goes by the name of Kim Scott. (Amarr Croskey, For The Birmingham Times)

By Javacia Harris Bowser | For The Birmingham Times

By day, Kimberly Strickland serves as Director of Student Services at the Alabama School of Fine Arts (ASFA) in Birmingham. After hours, she becomes Kim Scott, an accomplished classical flutist, Billboard chart-topping jazz musician, and host of the weekly two-hour nationally syndicated radio show “Kim Scott’s Block Party Radio.” (Scott was Strickland’s last name before she married Stephen “DJ Strick” Strickland.)

With five albums to her credit, Strickland is considered a mainstay in jazz, and she’s made her name for herself in classical music, too, playing with the Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra and as a soloist.

Though she’s called Mrs. Strickland when she’s inside the walls of ASFA—where she is a National Board Certified Teacher and previously held the role as chair of ASFA’s music department—and Kim Scott when she’s performing on stages around the globe, Strickland stresses that she is both a teacher and an artist in both worlds.

“What I do in my professional life allows me to be great at ASFA,” said Strickland, who’s also a 1993 graduate of the school. “God gave me the gift of performance, so I’m going to continue to do that. And everything I learn from doing that, I’m going to bring back to these kids.”

In fact, Strickland loves teaching so much that when she transitioned to her current role in administration at ASFA, she volunteered to continue teaching flute in the music department for no extra pay.

“I’ve been able to bless [my students] by the steps that I’ve taken and through the experiences I’ve had,” said Strickland, 48. “It’s like a dream.”

Kimberly Strickland is also an accomplished classical flutist, Billboard chart-topping jazz musician who goes by the name of Kim Scott. (Amarr Croskey, For The Birmingham Times)

An Appreciation For Music

Teaching is important to Strickland, in part, because she credits her teachers for getting her to where she is today. Her first teachers, however, were her parents, who led by example, instilling in her an appreciation for music.

“I grew up in a musical household,” said Strickland, raised Birmingham’s South Hampton neighborhood, near Forestdale and Pratt City, with her parents and two brothers. “My mother was a music educator in the Birmingham City Schools system for 30-plus years before retiring.”

Strickland’s mother, Belinda Floyd, retired from Norwood Elementary School but also taught at Kirby Middle and West Hills Elementary schools during her career.

“And my dad, although he worked for [a telecommunications company], also played saxophone and sang,” she added.

Strickland’s parents nurtured in her a love for all genres of music.

“I can remember my mom putting on the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s vinyl records, and we would just sit there and jam out to symphonies by [Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky] like that was normal,” Strickland recalled. “And then my dad would put on some funk music by [flutist and saxophonist Hubert Laws].”

Before having children, Strickland’s parents were signed to Stax Records, the legendary Memphis, Tennessee-based record label often credited with the creation of Southern soul music.

“You can still go to YouTube to this day and look up the Dynamic Soul Machine and listen to their records,” Strickland said.

As a child, Strickland played piano and violin, but when she tried the flute she’d found her true love, she said: “My mom bought me a flute, and I became obsessed with it. I took it super seriously.”

“The Ultimate Band Nerd”

At the time, though she was only in the fifth grade at the now-closed Robert C. Arthur Elementary School in Birmingham, Strickland was committed to practicing her flute whenever she could. When she went to Lewis Martin Smith Middle School, also in Birmingham, the following year, she met Suzanne Winter, the school’s band director, who was also a flutist.

“I felt like I won the lottery,” Strickland said of Winter. “She wasn’t just my band director, but she played my instrument. She had great insight on how to build technique on the flute, how to make a really good sound, how to have the right posture.”

Winter often would give Strickland additional lessons after school. “I thought she was doing that for everybody, but later she told me, ‘I just felt like you were on to something,’” Strickland recalled, adding that she made first chair, meaning she was the lead musician in her band section, every year in middle school.

“I was a good student, but band was my jam,” Strickland said. “I was the ultimate band nerd.”

Strickland’s mother saw her daughter’s commitment and soon learned about ASFA, a state-funded, tuition-free public school that provides an intensive education in the arts, math, and science to students from across Alabama. The school, located in downtown Birmingham, begins this year’s fall semester on August 12.

Students attending the school consistently receive recognition in competitions in the arts and in academics at the state, regional, and national levels. Furthermore, in the past five years, 91 percent of ASFA’s graduating seniors have received merit scholarships for study at colleges, universities, and conservatories.

When Strickland first applied for ASFA’s music department as a student she was accepted but turned down the offer. She wanted to go to John Herbert Phillips High School (now John Herbert Phillips Academy), so she could study with renowned band director Harry McAfee and be part of his lauded marching band.

While Strickland loved her marching band experience, she said she often felt like “the oddball” at the school. After a year and a half at Phillips, she enrolled at ASFA.

“Once I got [to ASFA], I found my spot, I found my people,” she said. “I had extra time to practice. I was in an orchestra and taking music classes with an amazing flute teacher, Katherine Kitzman, who nourished my gift and exposed me to so many things I had no idea existed, like National Flute Association conventions and competitions and summer camp intensives.”

Kitzman also gave her extra lessons after school, free of charge: “She said, ‘I’m doing this because I know where you’re going,’” Strickland remembered her flute instructor telling her.

“Monster Talent”

With five albums to her credit, Kimberly Strickland is considered a mainstay in jazz, and she’s made her name for herself in classical music, too, playing with the Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra and as a soloist. (Amarr Croskey, For The Birmingham Times)

After graduating from ASFA in 1993, Strickland went on to study at The University of Alabama (UA) in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where she worked with renowned flutist, Sheryl Cohen, Doctor of Music (D.M.).

“She was the flute teacher that said, ‘I’m preparing you because you’re a star and you don’t know it,’” Strickland recalled. “She just nurtured every gift. She set me up to be a great educator, to be a great flutist, and to be a great performer. She took me on my first plane ride to go to a flute convention in Chicago, [Illinois]. She told people about me in other countries. So, when I was 21. [I was invited to] teach in South America for flute festivals and to go here and go there.”

Cohen, who retired from UA in 2004 but continues to perform and teach at international festivals and via private lessons, said her goal with all her students was to teach them to become world citizens.

“[Strickland] has utmost integrity as a human being, she’s brilliant, and she has monster talent,” Cohen said of her former student. “She has all the qualities, and she has the temperament to be an artist. She has the temperament to go out on stage and own the place. All those things were in her. I didn’t put any of that in her. What I did was I helped her draw them out. I helped her realize what was inside and to go for it.”

After doing her graduate work from 1998 to 2000 in pedagogy (the study of teaching methods) and flute performance at Oklahoma State University, Strickland got a call from ASFA. The school needed a flute teacher and thought she’d be perfect for the job.

“Teaching was very natural for me, and I felt like I was home,” Strickland said. “I was working with students that reminded me of myself when I was at ASFA. I loved working with students who were little sponges for music. They were flute nerds just like I was.”

Once Strickland started teaching in August 2000, she knew she didn’t want to stop.

“I loved the gratification I got from watching [students] succeed and win competitions or make good grades on their juries and be so excited,” she said. So, she knew she’d keep teaching while also building a career as a performer.

Smooth Jazz

One day while listening to a jazz radio show, Strickland noticed that she hadn’t heard any flutists, so she broke out her flute and recorded a jazzy cover of “Déjà Vu,” by megastar Beyoncé. She posted the video to YouTube in the summer of 2010 and shared it with friends who encouraged her to do more.

Next, Strickland did a cover of “Orange Moon,” by singer-songwriter Erykah Badu, often called “The Queen of Neo Soul.” Pretty soon, she was performing at a jazz festival. When folks in the audience started asking to buy her record—which she didn’t have at the time—she knew it was time to get in the studio.

Jazz guitarist Keith “Cashmere” Williams showed Strickland the ropes of the record business, teaching her how to find a manager, put a band together, and write songs. He taught her about publishing and royalties, too.

“I didn’t know anything about [the recording] world, but we recorded a record, put it out, and radio picked it up,” Strickland said.

Eventually, she was signed to Innervision Records and today has five albums and scored multiple number-one hits on the Billboard music charts.

Strickland, who has been married to Stephen “DJ Strick” Strickland for nine years and has an 18-year-old son and twin “bonus sons” age 28, is currently working on her sixth album, which she hopes will be released early next year. Still, she has no plans to stop teaching any time soon.

Of teaching, Strickland said, “I could do this forever!”

“Aspirational Role Model”

Tim Mitchell, Ph.D. President of Alabama School of Fine Arts, calls Strickland an “aspirational role model.”

“When she leads a department for student support, the students know she gets them; she’s been one of them,” Mitchell said. “She’s an alumna of the school who came back to serve the next generation because her own education was transformational in her life. That is why students, especially young aspiring Black musicians at ASFA, are inspired to challenge themselves. They know they can thrive because she shows the way.”

Strickland believes that she can break stereotypes that Black people don’t play in symphonies. “I think it’s important for all people to see people of color in the arts and to see them be successful in the arts,” she said.

While women are more prevalent in classical music today than they were in past decades, they’re still the minority in jazz, Strickland said, and must work twice as hard to gain respect. “And when we perform, we’ve got to be decked to the nines,” she added.

Strickland’s proud to be part of the supergroup Jazz in Pink, a collective of today’s top female jazz artists.

Balancing performing with her career in education and her life as a wife and mother used to be overwhelming, Strickland admits.

“I was working all week and then jumping on a plane on Fridays to go play shows and coming back on Monday, getting off a plane and coming to work,” she said. “Sometimes I was like, ‘Oh, my God, what am I thinking?’”

Then she learned that the key to balancing it all was to stop compartmentalizing the different parts of her life, she said. When she’s on tour she can be both organized and creative because that’s what she must do as an educator. At ASFA, she can pour into her students because of lessons learned while performing. And she can take her passion for music and put it into caring for her family.

“I have to stay aware of all of that to continue to make it work,” she said. “But what I found is, when I do that, I’m not stressed out.”

Now entering her 25th year in education, Strickland said her goal at ASFA is for her students to be even more successful than she has been.

“Everything I’m learning, I’m supposed to teach them so that when they become professionals, they go way, way further than I have,” she said. “I think of students like Coreisa Lee, who started with me and now I get to watch her on stage with Lizzo.”

Lee has not only performed with Lizzo but also at the Met Gala and on Broadway. She’s currently in Los Angeles working on a project in connection with the blockbuster Barbie movie and she’s doing all of this while pursuing her doctorate at West Virginia University.

Lee still remembers Strickland teaching her to “play to the very back of the audience.”

She said, “That really did something to my psyche, and I still repeat this message in my practice.”

Moreover, Strickland also showed Lee what was possible.

“Ms. Scott helped me to see that I didn’t have to stay in a box as a classical flutist,” she said. “Watching her teach me, and conduct the orchestra and string orchestra, and then run to a jazz recording session – a different genre than what she was teaching me — that was very cool to see. I really think it’s important to see someone you relate to in a bigger light.”

Strickland’s proud of her students who decided not to pursue music professionally, too. “They work for NASA, they’re doctors, they’re lawyers, and they still keep in touch,” she said.

Full disclosure: Javacia Harris Bowser is a graduate of the Alabama School of Fine Arts and taught English at the school from 2009- 2019.

Tyesha Brown: The Filmmaker Producing, Casting, Hiring in Birmingham

Birmingham Times

August 8, 2024

Tyesha Brown and her team filmed ‘Checkmate’ in June utilizing locations such as downtown Birmingham’s Wine Loft bar and lounge, The Mint House, Snatched BodiSpa in Adamsville, Oak Hill Cemetery in North Birmingham, a local jailhouse, and downtown luxury lofts Station 21. (Amarr Croskey, For The Birmingham Times)

By Je’Don Holloway-Talley | For The Birmingham Times

Local indie Birmingham filmmaker Tyesha Brown doesn’t make up storylines for her films. She doesn’t have to.

“Most of the time, I’m writing from experiences or situations I’ve encountered,” she said. “You hear me say, ‘I can’t make this up’ and that’s what I mean. I’m always writing, regardless of what is going on around me because the thought of turning these pages into reality keeps me motivated.”

Brown’s productions are centered on urban stories, comedies, romantic comedies, and biopics.

Her latest project, ‘Checkmate,’ a romantic thriller that follows the story of a young couple who find themselves entangled in a dangerous game of love and betrayal has ties to her hometown.

“I love being able to produce films in Birmingham, and I’m always casting and hiring in the city. Not only is Birmingham beautiful, but the amount of talent in this city is insane,” she said. “I also teach film workshops and work with kids in the Birmingham City School system.”

She’s taught classes with The Flourish Alabama, a local non-profit geared towards community/cultural arts; Encore Theatre and Gallery, a community theater in the Roebuck Springs neighborhood and Make It Happen Theater Company, a community theatrical program.

Brown and her team filmed ‘Checkmate’ in June utilizing locations such as downtown Birmingham’s Wine Loft bar and lounge, The Mint House, Snatched BodiSpa in Adamsville, Oak Hill Cemetery in North Birmingham, a local jailhouse, and downtown luxury lofts– Station 21.

Unbeatable Work Ethic

Her personal experiences have also fueled Brown’s drive for success. The loss of her parents instilled an unbeatable work ethic.

“My only sibling is my [younger] sister Daphne, [36], and I’m not sure where I would be without her…,” Brown said. “We lost our parents when we were young. My dad was 32 when he passed from colon cancer [and] I was only 12, and my mom was 40 when she passed from breast cancer while I was in college at Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland. I was 21. But I was blessed to have them long enough to curate an unbeatable work ethic. If I’m in a bind, no one is coming to save me, so I need to be able to look out for myself, and my younger sister,” she said.

“Their absence drives me to create a fulfilling life because our time here is short– we’re here for a good time not a long time,” said Brown.

Local indie Birmingham filmmaker Tyesha Brown’s latest project, ‘Checkmate,’ a romantic thriller that follows the story of a young couple who find themselves entangled in a dangerous game of love and betrayal has ties to her hometown, Birmingham. (Amarr Croskey, For The Birmingham Times))

Industry Experience

The Ensley native and Ensley High School graduate has worked on numerous television and reality shows across CBS, ABC, and NBC as an associate and field producer. Her credits include NBC’s ‘The Voice’, and CBS’s ‘Big Brother’, ‘Survivor’, and ‘The Amazing Race’ and her expertise lies in story development, where she helps producers identify needs related to storytelling.

She splits her time between Los Angeles and Birmingham, staying on the West Coast during the industry’s peak season and returning home in between. However, the ripple effects of the 2023 SAG-AFTRA [Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists] labor strike led Brown to start her own company, IAMCLASSYBROWN Productions.

She earned a dual bachelor’s degree in journalism and film studies from Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland in 2005 and was inspired to pursue filmmaking after a successful high school film project as part of Girls Inc.’s Snapshots pregnancy prevention program, and her first film, “Destani’s Eyes.”

“Through that program I learned a lot about film and television and that my ideas were valid and decided [the film industry] was where I wanted and needed to be,” said Brown. “…‘Destani’s Eyes’ was about a girl who lived in a foster home and journaled about her experiences… We won all kinds of awards for it” including a Sidewalk Film Festival award which connected her with a writer/showrunner out of Los Angeles who became her mentor, said Brown.

“Dayna Lynn North (Showrunner of HBO’s Insecure, Writer/EP for the Best Man Final Chapters, and more) has been instrumental in my success, and if it were not for Sidewalk we probably never would’ve crossed paths,” Brown said. “She mentored me throughout college, and when I finished, I moved to LA and her guidance and connections helped me build my career.”

Who You Know

The evolving film industry and value streaming platforms have brought to independent filmmakers are refreshing, she said.

“The indie film scene is growing and it’s important to me that Birmingham be a part of that, and being able to get your films on streaming platforms lets [independent filmmakers] know that it’s possible,” said Brown. “…

Breaking into the industry can be as much about who you know as it is about what you know, she said.

“Make it a point to connect with people, and don’t always approach it with the attitude of ‘what can I get?’ Figure out how you can serve, and people and things will serve you in return,” said Brown. “To anyone looking to make movies and need funding, I would suggest networking. Be sure to put yourself in rooms with people who can help you.”

She continued, “I’ve spent years working for and with other people, and although I’ve done tons [of projects] for myself, I’m really just now breaking off on my own in terms of my films being under my company and it’s starting to build momentum.”

Collaboration is also the key, she said.

“I’ve worked with a local filmmaker from here named Marques McConico on [an independent film called] ‘Juug Gong Wrong’ with Clifton Powell an NAACP Image Award Nominee for Outstanding Supporting Actor for his work in ‘Ray’, opposite Jamie Foxx, ‘Next Friday,’ and ‘Friday After Next’, opposite Ice Cube and Mike Epps, and the series BOUNCE Tv’s Saints & Sinners, that was also shot in here in Birmingham, and Clifton enjoyed the process so much that he came back for the latest project [Checkmate] with Selph Paid Productions,” said Brown.

Commitment and Determination

Producing films and television shows is not all glitz and glamour. “Production is very challenging,” she said. “Long hours, little credit, little pay, and appreciation are shown while on set; you have to do it for the love of the craft.”

“You have to commit to the process. If you can’t be committed don’t even enter the business… [this industry] will try you. Locations fall through, cast members get sick, I mean anything can happen and you still have to be prepared to move forward. You have to be resourceful, you have to create backup plans on the spot and have contingency plans in place for everything from casting to production and crew,” said Brown.

Also, funding and staffing are significant challenges in independent filmmaking.

“Crewing up in Birmingham is difficult because not many people can afford to work in film fulltime. Another challenge is funding for your project; securing investors is a task on its own.”

Another challenge can be maintaining motivation in a competitive field, she said. “If you have a vision, see it through … focus on what’s in front of you.

Follow Tyesha Brown’s journey on IG at @iamclassybrown.

Full disclosure: Je’Don Holloway Talley served as a publicist for Tyesha Brown’s latest film Checkmate.

Safety Measures Can Help Minimize Drowning Risks While Boating

Birmingham Times

August 8, 2024

Last week’s safety article reviewed a checklist to ensure your safety life jacket/vest met the necessary safety factors to be considered in “serviceable condition” by the U.S. Coast Guard. This week we will continue our water safety, narrowing our focus to discussing boating safety.

Boating is an activity which can be fun with family and friends, but it also can be dangerous. This danger can be minimized drastically if certain safety measures are practiced consistently.

Therefore, the first safety tip to practice is to keep safety first, always. All passengers onboard, regardless of age, should be thoroughly briefed on the importance of being alert and following the rules while boating. All safety rules and measures should be explained to guests before setting off on an outing.

Boating is an activity which can be fun with family and friends, but it also can be dangerous. (Adobe Stock)

Another very important safety tip to help decrease drowning risks while boating is not drinking alcohol while boating. It is not good practice to drink and drive a motor vehicle and it is not a good idea while boating either. It is one of the leading factors in boating fatalities. In 2021, it accounted for 100 deaths.

This safety rule does not only apply to the captain of the boat, but the passengers as well. Everyone should be alert and not impaired by alcohol in an emergency. Therefore, everyone should be sober.

Remember wearing a safety life jacket/vest on a boat is mandatory. This is not just a safety tip. Life jackets/vests must be United States Coast Guard (USCG) approved. Look for the USCG stamp inside the life jacket, alongside sizing and other valuable information.

Some may feel like wearing a life jacket/vest on calm weather days is overkill, it is not. It’s not because it is difficult to predict the weather and if the wind suddenly picks up and waves get rougher, even the most skilled boaters can be surprised and quickly get into trouble. Events can happen quickly and unexpectedly, and boaters might not have time to grab their life jackets before finding themselves in the water.

Do not remove your life jacket/vest even if you feel it is too warm or cumbersome. Safety life jackets/vests save lives! This practice and others are essential in Keeping an Eye on Safety. Other tips will be reviewed next week.

PEOPLE, PLACES & THINGS

Birmingham Times

August 8, 2024

PPT0808 1a — The Birmingham Botanical Gardens will host several events this month. (File)

BY GWEN DERU | The Birmingham Times

CELEBRATE BLACK BUSINESS MONTH!!! SUPPORT BLACK BUSINESSES!!!

TODAY…

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

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

**FILM – 7 p.m. at the Sidewalk Film.

**3RD THURSDAY BLUES JAM, 7 p.m. at True Story Brewing.

**QUADRAPHONIC FEATURE: FRANK ZAPPA’S OVER-NITE SENSATION at Saturn.

**PATSY’S PLAYHOUSE BURLESQUE KARAOKE at The Nick.

**REAL FUNNY BHM COMEDY OPEN MIC, 7:30 p.m. at True Story Brewing Company.

**THIRST TRAP THURSDAY, 5 p.m. at 2400 7th Avenue South.

**KIKSTART at Water Mark in Bessemer with Free Food Boxes, 9 a.m.

**COMPUTER CLASSES AT THE FIVE POINTS WEST LIBRARY every Tuesday and Thursday.

**EACH AND EVERY THURSDAY HAPPY HOUR, 5-8 p.m. at D’ZIRE with SPECIALS.

**THIRSTY THURSDAYS at D’ZIRE Bar and Lounge.

**KARAOKE, 5-9 p.m. at Courtyard Alabaster Bar and Grill.

**THIRD THURSDAY BLUES JAM, 7 p.m. at True Story Brewing.

**TASTEMAKER THURSDAY – Every Thursday at Blaze Ultra Lounge, 228 Roebuck Plaza Drive, 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. with DJ Ace Twon (95.7 JAMZ) in the mix hosted by Audio Life and GMC Promo.

**THIRSTY THURSDAY at Hookah 114 17th Street No.

**TEQUILA THURSDAY at the Vibe Bar & Lounge.

**THROW BACK THURSDAY at Tha Vibe Bar & Lounge, 3801 Richard Arrington, Jr., Blvd.

**FILMMAKER HAPPY HOUR- Every 3rd Thursday, at Sidewalk Film Fest. Meet with other filmmakers and discuss your newest projects.

**EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT KARAOKE, 6:30 at Ruth’s Place hosted by LADY WOO and with DJ SHAY.

FRIDAY…

**EVERY FRIDAY – STORYTIME AT THE GARDENS, Every Friday, 10 – 11 a.m. FREE at BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS.

**FRIDAY NIGHT WRITES, 8 – 11 p.m. at 7611 1st Avenue North.

**THE LADIES OF WITH RIVAL HANDS & MILLENNIAL JONES at The Nick.

**DJ JACK BAMA LATE NIGHT at The Nick.

**NO SCRUBS: 90S DANCE PARTY at Saturn.

**ELECTRIC AVENUE – 80’S MTV EXPERIENCE at Iron City.

**EVERY FRIDAY – STORYTIME AT THE GARDENS, Every Friday, 10 – 11 a.m. FREE at BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS.

**EVERY FRIDAY, R&B at The Chandelier, 212 Cahaba Valley Road in Pelham with DJ MANISH mixing live.
FREE Entry.

**EACH AND EVERY FRIDAY HAPPY HOUR, 5-8 p.m. at D’ZIRE with SPECIALS.

**LIT FRIDAYS WITH RIPCORD, 8 p.m. – 2 a.m. at 4501 Gary Avenue in Fairfield.

**AFRO CARIBBEAN NIGHTS (Every Friday Night) at Ash’s on 2nd, 7 p.m. until with Reggae, Afro Beats, Dancehall and Top 40 Hits.

**FIREBALL FRIDAY at Tha Vibe Bar & Lounge.

**FRIDAY NIGHT RAP, Every 1st and 3rd Friday at Crescent Cultural Center, 1121 Tuscaloosa Avenue, SW.

SATURDAY…

**BESSEMER FARMERS MARKET, 9 a.m., at 100 14th Street Highway 150.

**EVERY SATURDAY at BIRDSONG FARMERS MARKET, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., 2824 5th Avenue South, at Automatic Seafood.

**WINE DOWN HAPPY HOUR, 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. at Saferoom Lounge Bar.

**EACH AND EVERY SATURDAY HAPPY HOUR, 5-8 p.m. at D’ZIRE with SPECIALS.

**EVERY SATURDAY SOLD OUT – THE SATURDAYS JUMP OFF, 10 p.m. at Onyx of Bham, 615 8th Avenue West.

**SATURDAY NIGHT with SWEET SPOT at The Nick.

**LATE NIGHT WITH R.1.Y.T. at the Nick.

**FRIENDS OF DAN SARTAIN at Saturn.

**ELECTRIC FEELS: INDIE ROCK + INDIE DANCE PARTY at Iron City.

SUNDAY…

**WORSHIP AT THE SIXTH, 9:30 a.m. at Sixth Avenue Baptist Church.

**EVERY SUNDAY – SOUL FOOD SUNDAYS, 1-5 p.m. (Every Sunday) at 1918 Catering, 197 Vulcan Road.

**SUNDAY FUN DAY at DZIRE BAR AND LOUNGE, 4120 3rd Avenue South. Call 205-266-2594 for more.

**SUNDAY FUNDAY for the grown Folks Kickback at Tha Vibe Bar & Lounge.

**EVERY 3rd SUNDAY JAZZ JAM SESSION, 4-8 p.m. at the Ferus on 41st.

**CITY WIDE PRAYER MEETING, Every 4th Sunday, 4 p.m. for one hour at Birmingham Easonian Baptist Bible College. The Lord’s Supper will be served and hosted by the Knights of Pythias & Court of Calanthe.

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

**SUNDAY FUNNIES with STACEY J, AISHA BROWN, LADIBOMBAY and DE’ANTHONY TURNER hosted by

**SUNDAY WITH JASON GRUBBS at The Nick.

MONDAY…

**BO JOHNAMASSA at The Nick.

**RNB MONDAYS, 10 p.m. at Onyx of Bham, 615 Eighth Avenue West.

TUESDAY…

**KIKSTART at Water Mark in Bessemer, 9 a.m. with Free Food Boxes…until gone.

**COMPUTER CLASSES AT THE FIVE POINTS WEST LIBRARY every Tuesday and Thursday.

**DIAPER GIVEAWAY every Tuesday, 10 a.m. at the Titusville Library.

**EVERY TUESDAY SPECIAL TUESDAYS with Food, Drinks Specials at 1918 Catering, 197 Vulcan Road.

**EVERY TUESDAY – TUESDAY NIGHT TRAILS 5:45 p.m. at Red Mountain Park.

**EVERY TUESDAY is SOUL CAFÉ Happy Hour introducing the Soul Café Happy Hour, 5:30-9:30 p.m. with Soul Goodies, Soul Spirits and Soul Music including $5 Titos and Redmont, at The Vault.

**JOSE CARR’S JAZZ JAM, 7:30 p.m. at True Story Brewing Co. 5510 Crestwood Blvd.

**CARIBBEAN NIGHTS with Reggae, Caribbean and Island Vibes, 9 p.m. – until… with DJ Serious Mixing and hosted by KJ and MANNY at The Vault, downtown.

**TASTY TUESDAYS at Platinum of Birmingham.

**BIRMINGHAM SONGWRITER’S ROUND with Host SUSANNAH SEALES at the Nick.

**SUPERSTAR KARAOKE EVERY TUESDAY at the Nick.

**CHRIS & CHRIS COMEDY CONNECTION at Saturn.

WEDNESDAY…

**INTERFAITH NOONDAY PRAYER SERVICES, every Wednesday, at Linn Park, in Downtown Birmingham.

**WORKOUT WEDNESDAY at Five Points West Library at 10:30 a.m. for chair yoga and other chair exercises.

**WEDNESDAY NIGHT POOL TOURNAMENT AND KARAOKE NIGHT, 5 p.m. at
Carter’s Hookah Lounge and Grill, hosted by Jo Sweetz with the Pool Tournament, at 7 p.m. and Karaoke at 8 p.m.

**EVERY WEDNESDAY, YOU, ME & RNB, 6 p.m. at 2206 Bar & Lounge, 2206 31st Street, with DJ You, Me &
Playlist.

**D’ZIRE WEDNESDAYS, EACH AND EVERY WEDNESDAY with Free Mimosas, 8- 10 p.m. with DJ GORGEOUS in the Mix at 4120 Third Avenue South.

**REAL FUNNY BHM COMEDY OPEN MIC, 7:30 p.m. at True Story Brewing Company, 5510 Crestwood Blvd. Food until 9 p.m., Music until 10 p.m. and Drink until 11 p.m.

**EVERY 4th WEDNESDAY at FACE’S LOUNGE KARAOKE hosted by ARETTA, 6:30 p.m. at 7070 Aaron Aronov Dr. in Fairfield.

**FILM TRIVIA NIGHT at Saturn.

**FIGHT CLUB OPEN DECK WITH Host DJ LEMON BELOVED EVERY WEDNESDAY at The Nick.

**JUVENILE & THE 400 DEGREEZ BAND at Iron City.

NEXT THURSDAY…

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

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

**FILM – 7 p.m. at the Sidewalk Film.

**3RD THURSDAY BLUES JAM, 7 p.m. at True Story Brewing.

**THAT 90’S LOVE: AN OLD SCHOOL R&B PARTY at Saturn.

**BURLESQUE NIGHT at The Nick with Host BELELA DONNA at The Nick.

**LUCKY DAYE at Iron City.

NEXT FRIDAY…

**EVERY FRIDAY – STORYTIME AT THE GARDENS, Every Friday, 10 – 11 a.m. FREE at BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS.

**FRIDAY NIGHT WRITES, 8 – 11 p.m. at 7611 1st Avenue North.

**LATE NIGHT WITH DJ JACK BAMA at The Nick.

**PERPETUAL GROOVE at Saturn.

FOR CAR LOVERS…
**THIS SATURDAY – CUSTOM CAR AND BIKE SHOW – YOU ARE INVITED!!!! IF you love cars, 1971-1977 Chevy(s), Capri(s), Impala(s), big wheels, customized paint, customized interior and just what some call ‘cute’ cars, then this Saturday, 1 p.m. until, is when you need to be at the Lassiter Mountain Dragway, 3995 Raceway Park, Mt. Olive, Alabama for cars in the DONK CAR SHOW that you have been waiting to see. Join other car lovers for a day of fun and excitement as car owners show the latest custom cars and bikes. Gates open at 1 p.m. School aged kids are free. Free parking. Food of all kinds and drinks will be available for purchase from your favorite food truck. You don’t want to miss this amazing event!! If you know, then you ‘DO’ know! For more information, call 205-266-1714.

AT THE BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS…

**ART AT THE GARDENS for August will have artwork by WILLIAM DARBY on display in the gallery outside the library.

**AUGUST 12 – CREATING DRIP IRRIGATION FOR CONTAINERS AND RAISED BEDS,
9- 10:30 a.m. in the Outdoor Classroom.

**AUGUST 13 – NATURE TRIVIA NIGHT is 7-9 p.m. in the Rushton Garden.

**AUGUST 20 – ALABAMA DROUGHT TOLERANT LANDSCAPES, 11 a.m. – Noon.

**SEPTEMBER 6-7 – FALL PLANT SALE with hundreds of plants. The sale time for members is 1-5:30 p.m. on Thursday. The sale is Open to the Public on Friday, 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

**SEPTEMBER 10 – A SURVEY OF FERNS, 11 a.m. – Noon.

**SEPTEMBER 12 – CREATE YOUR OWN DESERT TERRARIUM, 11 a.m. – Noon.

**ANTIQUES AT THE GARDENS The 18th Antiques AT THE GARDENS is October 36 at the Birmingham
Botanical Gardens, 10 a.m. 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. -4 p.m. There will be 25 celebrated dealers at the three day show. There will be antique furniture, fine art, vintage and fine jewelry,
silver, rugs and textiles, home décor and garden accessories. Thursday will be the GALA IN THE GARDENS
where guests will be transported into an evening through the garden entryway that will be created by designer
Norman K. Johnson and Will Newton and Kate Newton of Landscape Services.

AT SIDEWALK FILM FEST…
**SHORT FILM PRODUCTION GRANT – There is a $50,000 Curated Grant to support development of short film with a deadline of August 13, next Tuesday. STOWE STORY LABS, a 501(c)(3) is dedicated to helping emerging screenwriters, filmmakers and creative producers get their work made and seen.
The 26th Annual Sidewalk Film fest is coming soon. Apply at FilmFreeway or Coverfly. Use code SSLSIDEWALK 24. To learn more, go to stowestorylabs.org.

AROUND TOWN…
**FRIDAY – COFFEE WITH CREATIVES, 8:30 – 10 a.m. at UAB’s Abroms Engel Institute for the Visual Arts in the AEIVA Gallery. The theme is Opportunities or Artists with Arts Organizations. With representatives that will speak about their organizations and the opportunities they offer. Go to Createbirmingham.org to register.
**NEXT THURSDAY – FILM INDUSTRY NETWORKING NIGHTS, 5-7 p.m. at the Sidewalk Cinema with filmmakers, local crew, industry professionals and creatives. Networking nights are held quarterly in conjunction with Sidewalk’s monthly meetups.
**AUGUST 31 – QUEER TO STAY GRANT PROGRAM – August 31 is the deadline for this program that is designed to support LGBTQ+ small businesses especially those owned by people of color, women and the transgender community. For more contact: Create Birmingham.

FOR ART LOVERS…
**SEPTEMBER 28 – RHYTHMS OF COLOR Art Festival and Student Art Competition, 5- 9 p.m. at the Harbert Center hosted by ARETTA WOODRUFF with live entertainment, wine tasting and hors d’oeuvres with a Bit of Everything including original art, pottery, jewelry, apparel, accessories, purses, eyewear, soap, perfume and books. Special guests are Atlanta Artist BRIAN DAGREAT, Dallas Artist DELORES GEE, St. Croix, Virgin Island CLARITY LEVEL and New Orleans Culinary Artist TONI NORTH.

HAPPENINGS AT SIXTH AVENUE BAPTIST CHURCH…
**WORSHIP SERVICE every Sunday.
**EVERY MONDAY MORNING MEDITATION WITH PASTOR CANTELOW, 7:15 a.m. Contact the church at (205) 321-1136 or (205) 321-1137.
**CHILDREN’S CHURCH & COLLISION CHURCH, each First Sunday at 9:30 a.m. for K-5th (Children’s Church), 6-12th (Collision).

AT GIFTED CITY CHURCH… EVERY SUNDAY!
**GIFTED CITY CHURCH, Sunday Worship is 10 a.m. at 228 Second Avenue North in the Downtown, City Center. Join the one-hour service with children’s service and complimentary coffee and tea. For more: info@thegiftpad.org.

COMING SOON…
**SEPTEMBER 13 – ZOO GALA SAFARI SOIREE – A black-tie event that is a Safari Soiree for an unforgettable evening filled with elegance, entertainment, exceptional cuisine and majestic animals. SAVE THE DATE!
**SEPTEMBER 28 – MAXWELL: THE SERENADE TOUR at the Legacy Arena.
**OCTOBER 5 – THE REUNION TOUR 2024 with KIRK FRANKLIN, YOLANDA ADAMS, FRED HAMMOND, MARVIN SAPP & THE CLARK SISTERS with special guest KIERRA SHEARD-KELLY at the Legacy Arena.
**OCTOBER 13 – 85 SOUTH: BIG BUSINESS COMEDY TOUR at the Legacy Arena.

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

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