BJCTA Partnerships Include Buses for Miles College, Transportation for Area Patients

August 1, 2024

By Sym Posey | The Birmingham Times

Charlotte Shaw, executive director and CEO of Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) has shown that MAX Transit is more than an agency to get riders from one destination to another. She’s also intentional about partnerships.

Charlotte Shaw, executive director and CEO of Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority, on board one of BJCTA’s newly branded buses. (Amarr Croskey, For The Birmingham Times)

The Alabama Regional Medical Service (ARMS) has recently collaborated with the BJCTA to purchase bus passes for their patients in need of transportation.

“We’re excited about this new collaboration and partnership with the Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority,” said Ted Greer, JR, CEO of ARMS. “Given the population that we serve as a federally qualified Health Center, we have a lot of patients who do not have means of transportation in order to be consistent with their doctor’s appointments and dental appointments. We wanted to find a way to help them bridge that gap.”

Greer said ARMS reached out to the Transit Authority “and they understood our mission, who we are, who we serve, why it’s important that people maintain their health care and they were so kind to provide an opportunity for us to receive discounted two-hour bus passes.”

This isn’t the first time that the BJCTA has done this.

Tevarius Foster, Director of Customer Experience at BJCTA, the agency also worked with the Daniel Payne Legacy Foundation as well. “They purchased $5,000 worth of passes for para-transit customers so that they may receive access anything pertaining to health and well-being such as doctors’ appointments, grocery stores, pharmacies, or if it’s mental health related, like a trip to the nail salon,”

In March, MAX Transit entered into a unique partnership with Miles College by donating two 40-foot buses to the Fairfield, Alabama-based, historically Black college and university (HBCU), just outside of Birmingham.

“Our buses are good buses,” said Shaw at the time. “I can’t keep them in useful life for a long time. [Because of federal regulations], I can do only 700,000 miles or 15 years, whichever comes first. And, of course, most of the time I meet my miles first. … I had two really good buses, and I wanted [Miles] to have them.”

“I am grateful to [Shaw] because bus service does not come into Fairfield,” said Miles College President Bobbie Knight. “If you go to Miles College and don’t have a car you can’t get around.”

These types of initiatives have led to recognition for Shaw’s leadership. In June, she was recognized as an honoree as one of Birmingham’s Top women by the Birmingham Business Journal for 2024, a prestigious annual recognition celebrating women who have distinguished themselves as key leaders in their organizations and the community.

And in May, Shaw also secured her second consecutive Executive Leader of the Year Award at the annual Minority Business Awards presented by Summit Media Group.

For more on MAX Transit visit maxtransit.org or contact customer service at (205) 521-0101.

Former State Rep. John Rogers, 83, Sentenced to 13 Months in Federal Prison

Birmingham Times

August 1, 2024

JohnRogers 2 (2) — After serving more than 40 years in the Alabama legislature, Rep. John Rogers was sentenced to 13 months in prison. (File)

Associated Press

The longest-serving member of the Alabama House of Representatives was sentenced to 13 months in federal prison Tuesday on charges of federal conspiracy and obstruction of justice, despite an earlier nonbinding plea agreement that gave the 83-year-old a more lenient sentence to be served at home.

John Rogers was also charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud and one count of conspiracy to obstruct justice, as part of a kickback scheme that diverted hundreds of thousands of dollars from a fund intended to pay for community projects in Jefferson County.

“What’s important is that we sent a message to future lawmakers,” George Martin, the federal prosecutor, said outside of the courthouse in Birmingham after the decision. “You will get caught and you will go to jail. So just don’t do it.”

Rogers is a Democrat from Birmingham first elected to the Alabama Legislature in 1982.

Between 2018 and 2022 federal prosecutors said that Rogers directed $400,000 to a youth sports organization run by then-Rep. Fred Plump. Federal prosecutors said that Plump then gave approximately $200,000 of that money back to Rogers and his former legislative aid Varrie Johnson Kindall. The kickbacks occurred before Plump took office.

Plump and Kindall were both sentenced to 12 months in prison last week for the kickback scheme. Kindall was also sentenced to an additional two years on separate charges related to stolen retirement funds.

Rogers initially agreed to a non-binding plea agreement in March. Federal prosecutors agreed to recommend a 14 month sentence to be served at home in exchange for Rogers’ resignation from the Alabama House of Representatives and a repayment of $197,950.

But the prosecutors rescinded the offer after Rogers’ attorney filed a document that stated Rogers didn’t remember conversations related to the obstruction charge, undermining the former lawmaker’s admission of guilt, prosecutors argued. On Tuesday, prosecutors recommended 14 months served in a federal prison.

Ultimately the judge said the disagreement over the initial plea agreement didn’t factor into his decision to sentence the 83-year-old to 13 months in prison.

Rogers’ attorney’s expressed disagreement with the judge’s decision, repeating concerns about Rogers’ health conditions, which include prostate cancer, diabetes and a prescription for dialysis.

Lawyers said that Rogers “has resigned his office and has accepted the embarrassment and humiliation that comes with his resignation under these circumstances. He let down not only his constituents and the people of Alabama but also the office that he held for more than 40 years.”

Rogers himself gave an emotional and apologetic testimony to the judge ahead of sentencing.

“I’m sorry for the whole escapade, I take full responsibility for it. I regret it,” Rogers said through tears. “It hurts me to no end.”

Rogers’ attorney said he didn’t know whether the sentence would be appealed.

How Love of the Electrical Business Became a Part of Lensey King’s Family Legacy

Birmingham Times

August 1, 2024

Lensey King’s grandfather and uncles, all electricians, inspired him to start his business, Electrical Maintenance and Troubleshooting. Now, his wife and children help run it. (Provided)

By Alaina Bookman | abookman@al.com

Lensey King remembers working alongside his grandfather, one of the first Black licensed electricians in Etowah County, at only eight years old.

King’s grandfather and uncles, all electricians, inspired him to start his business, Electrical Maintenance and Troubleshooting. Now, his wife and children help run it. His electrical business is not only his life’s work, but a part of his family’s legacy as King passes the company on to his children.

“My grandfather was the first Black, licensed electrician during his time. That connection between his life, and his work and segregation made me understand the significance of what he was doing,” King said.

“I know some of the struggles he had to go through just to even pursue that and obtain that license or credential. He thought enough about our family to train us at an early age. So out of respect for him, I make sure his grandchildren take advantage of that.”

Today, King spends his days doing the work that he loves, teaching his children the tricks of the trade and training others just as his family trained him.

Experts say running a family business is not an easy feat, with only 30 percent of family-owned businesses in the United States surviving into the second generation, 12 percent into the third, and 3 percent into the fourth and beyond, according to a 2024 Score study.

In 2021, Black-owned businesses made up about 3 percent of all U.S. firms, according to a Pew Research Center study.

And in 2022, Black electricians made up only 7 percent of the trade with 877,000 electricians working in the United States and only 61,656 being Black electricians, according to a Data USA study.

King says he has found success by putting his family first and doing the work in honor of the generations before him.

Journey Into The Family Business

King said he has fond memories working alongside his grandfather as a child.

“Those days looked like handing him and my uncle’s tools, holding the flashlights for them, fetching equipment. I was their apprentice,” King said. “My son, Lensey III, started helping me at age six and my daughter Katelyn started helping me around the same age. I started them off the same way my grandfather did.”

Johnnie Parker Sr., King’s grandfather, was a vocational school instructor at J.K. Weaver Technical School and owned a small electrical contracting company in Gadsden, Parker Electric Company, which his family helped him run.

Peggy Parker Hill, King’s mother, kept the books for her father’s business. Odessa Parker, King’s grandmother, delivered materials and meals for the business.

When Parker Sr. retired, King’s uncle, Johnnie Parker Jr., began teaching electrical engineering at J.K. Weaver Technical School and encouraged King to participate in electrical competitions.

“A lot of the stuff he was teaching his students, I already knew at the age of eight,” King said.

In ninth grade, King came in third place in a district competition. He was disappointed, but persevered. He competed every year, growing in skill and confidence.

By twelfth grade, King won first place in the district, first in the state and fifth in the nation.

In 1998, after graduating from Gadsden High School, King attended Gadsden State Community College for a year, but found that college was simply not the right path for him.

“I wanted to go to work. Growing up in Gadsden, I wanted to work in the big city and, to me, that was Birmingham,” King said.

Griffin Electric, a sponsor for the electrical competitions, offered King an apprenticeship at age 19. While working at Griffin Electric, he balanced other electrical projects at R&T Electric and Parker Electric.

In 2002, King went to work at CMC Steel Alabama, a steel mill in Woodlawn, where he did industrial electrical work at the recommendation of his uncle Roderick Parker, who is also an electrician.

Overtime, King worked his way up the ladder, earning multiple electrical certificates and licenses.

“I started as an electronic technician, then I worked my way up to electrical specialist, then I became shift supervisor. And then my last position at the steel mill was electrical supervisor. No degree, no college other than that one year, but I just understood the trade, understood the theory, and I was intrigued by it and I just wanted to just keep learning it,” King said.

Johnnie Parker Sr. died in September 2007, but his legacy lived on as King started Electrical Maintenance and Troubleshooting in 2008.

With his wife and children by his side, King grew the family business.

A Family Business

Today, the family sits around a table, laughing and sharing fond memories of working alongside each other.

“I remember putting fan blades together using the screwdriver. And even though that wasn’t really like a big thing, it made me feel like I was helping a lot,” the Kings’ daughter, Katelyn, 17, said. “It’s been fun. It’s very fulfilling. It is very inspiring to see how hardworking he is and it makes me want to work hard too. It makes me want to pass it on too.”

Katelyn laughed as their parents shared a story about her first time getting fired at age 10 after being caught watching cartoons on the job.

“It’s just cool to work with him and already have a job, but I still have to work pretty hard,” the Kings’ son, Lensey III, 14, said.

“When I was just starting, I was just handing him tools and holding the flashlight and just doing whatever he asked. But now that I’m starting the electrical work program at my school, he’s having me start to wire stuff up and do more of the work that he would do.”

On another early contracting job, Lensey III and Katelyn could be found playing with cardboard boxes on their heads while their parents laughed along.

“To be his wife and to just jump in and help him fulfill his vision and his dream with the business has been very rewarding,” Jennifer King, co-owner and CFO of Electrical Maintenance and Troubleshooting, said. “It’s a legacy for my children that he passed down.”

Today, both Lensey III and Katelyn are licensed electrician apprentices.

“My goal has always been to honor my grandfather and grandmother…It is extremely important to not only continue my grandfather’s legacy, but go further than he did. Valuable lessons and skills are passed down to us by grace. We should show gratitude by going further for the next generations to come,” King said.

On another early contracting job, Lensey III and Katelyn could be found playing with cardboard boxes on their heads while their parents laughed along.

Today, both Lensey III and Katelyn are licensed electrician apprentices.

PEOPLE, PLACES & THINGS

Birmingham Times

August 1, 2024

BY GWEN DERU | The Birmingham Times

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.

**SACRAMENTUM with VIMUR and ECTOVOID at Saturn.

**BREED 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.

**Q DOT DAVIS with JAXXXON, local artists of Hip-Hop/R&B and Rap (from Birmingham, AL) at The Nick.

**WILD NOTHING with PEEL DREAM MAGAZINE at Saturn

**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.

**DRAG NIGHT at The Nick.

**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.

**DJ JACK BAMA at The Nick.

**REDD KROSS with DALE CROVER at Saturn.

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.

**CAPTAIN KUDZU, CHLOE MARIE & BROTHA JOSH at Saturn.

MONDAY…

**BIRMINGHAM BAND STAND at The Nick.

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

**TWEN, 7:30 p.m. at Saturn.

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.

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.

**SATURN’S COSMIC KARAOKE at Saturn.

**FIGHT CLUB OPEN DECK with Host DJ LEMON BELOVED at The Nick.

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.

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

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

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.

**DJ JACK BAMA at The Nick.

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

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

AT THE BIRMINGHAM MUSEUM OF ART…

**ART ON THE ROCKS RETURNS with Art, music and good food, Friday, 7-11 p.m. The Birmingham Museum of Art is celebrating the return of Art on the Rocks with an evening of performances with headliner RIC WILSON, a Chicago based artist of hip-hop, funk and soul music. There will be DJs artist demos, pop-up performances, specialty cocktails and so much more. RIC WILSON will bring his party-ready hip-hop with an intelligent twist. His funk/disco-infused take on rap stimulates the mind and body with robust percussion, vocal arrangements and instrumentation.

AT SIDEWALK FILM FEST…

The 26th Annual Sidewalk Film fest is coming soon. If you like music, here are a few films to check out. These films will make you want to quit your job and start a band.

**AUGUST 22 – BLACK LENS SPOTLIGHT NIGHT: ‘The South Got Something to Say,’ Thursday, 7 p.m. at the Sidewalk Cinema.

**AUGUST 24 – S/HE is Still Her/E: the official ‘Genesis P-Orridge Documentary.’ Saturday, 10 a.m. at the ASFA Dorothy Jemison Day Theater.

**AUGUST 24 – Sonic Visions presents ‘Catching Fire: The Story of Anita Pallenberg,’ Saturday, 12:30 p.m. at the Sidewalk Cinema.

**August 24 – ‘1-800-On Her Own’, Saturday, 3 p.m. at the Alabama Theater.

**AUGUST 24 – ‘Angelheaded Hipster: The Songs of Marc Bolan & T. Rex,’ at the Lyric Theater.

**AUGUST 24. ‘The World According to Allee Willis,’ Saturday, 8 p.m. at the ASFA Dorothy Jemison Day Theater.

**AUGUST 24 – ‘It was all a Dream,’ Saturday, 8:30 p.m. at the Carver Theater.

**AUGUST 25 – ‘Max Roach: The Drum Also Waltzes,’ Sunday, 10 a.m. at the Carver Theatre.

**AUGUST 25 – ‘Resynator’, Sunday, August 12:39, at Alabama Theater

AUGUST 25 – ‘A Symphony Celebration: The Blind Boys of Alabama, 2L3o p.m. with Dr. Henry Panions, iii’ at Carver Theater.

**AUGUST 25 – ‘THE ALMOST STORY of Tuxedo Junction, 6 p.n. at the Carver Theater,

**AUGUST 25 – ‘Swamp Dogg Gets His Pool Painted,’ Sunday, 6 p.m. at the Lyric Theater.

AROUND TOWN…

**AUGUST 9 – 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.

**AUGUST 15 – 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.

**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.

**OCTOBER CREATE BIRMINGHAM TOURS – Guided and self-guided tours of the Joe Minter Exhibition for youth and adults are Fridays, October 4th, 11th and 18th. The tours are open to organizations and schools focusing on art education, to meet Alabama’s Visual Arts Standards, for 4th- 12th grades. For more info, contact Viola Ratcliffe at Viola@createbirmingham.org.

FOR GARDEN LOVERS…
AT THE BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL GARDENS…

**TODAY – SUMMER LAWN CARE & TURF ALTERNATIVES with JACOB TURNER. Learn how to care for your lawn and explore turf alternatives.

**AUGUST 6 – BENEFICIAL INSECTS VS GARDEN PESTS with BETHANY O’REAR. Learn effective pest managements’ strategies.

**SEPTEMBER 6-7 – FALL PLANT SALE with hundreds of plants.

AROUND TOWN…
**TASTY TUESDAYS – ALUMNI S2N JULY LINEUP at Platinum of Birmingham on
TODAY – Jess Lanier and TUESDAY – McAdory.

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.

Past Cares, Future Concerns and Gifts of the Present

Birmingham Times

August 1, 2024

I believe life is defined by us making the most of our present and that’s why they call it a gift (I know you have heard this already). And in doing so, we’re making the most of the moment. Have you ever sat and talked with someone and soon got the impression that their mind was a million miles away.

I mean you were talking and sharing your heart, hoping that they were there in the moment with you but for whatever reason (no criticism whatsoever because we’ve all been there) they just weren’t in sync with you.

When we are not “present” it can often inevitably be attributed to past cares or future concerns that capture our attention. There could even be unexpected concerns or urgent matters coming before that person at that time. Again, this is no criticism, because we’ve all been there. Consider it merely an observation. Here’s what I do know.

If we don’t become masters of taking advantage of the moment, we’ll live our lives in regret because really, it’s the only thing that we have. It’s the moment that we are in currently. We all live for many more great moments, but a life well-lived is not necessarily one that looks to the future in constant expectation of something different.

When we are not “present” it can often inevitably be attributed to past cares or future concerns that capture our attention. (Adobe Stock)

A life well-lived is one in which a person has mastered the art of making the most of their current situation by being present in the moment. In other words, they’re making the most of the situation, the time and the space or place that they have. That’s really a strong key for life. All of us have made decisions that weren’t top tier.

All of us wish we could go back and change some things and do better and rewind some part of our lives. I certainly can’t speak for everyone, but I think that it affects most people in that there’s something in our past that we wish we could do better or even do over. So, here’s the deal.

Why not purpose to go ahead and do that now knowing you can’t go back. You can take the lesson from then and apply it now, though. Imagine if we were to just do that and take those hard life lessons and apply it now?

It would probably be an almost immediate antidote to regret. Truly the only thing I’m encouraging you to do is enjoy your moment. Enjoy the moment with your coworkers. As you are at home in the evening after work, enjoy the moment with your family. As you are on vacation, enjoy the moment and make the most of it. And don’t just enjoy it, purpose to be there. That’s how we really, step by step, have a life that’s well lived.

I’m Keisa, Coach K, and remember, I’m cheering for you.

Keisa Sharpe-Jefferson is a life coach, author and speaker. Her column appears each month online and in The Birmingham Times. You can contact Keisa at keisasharpe@yahoo.com and visit http://www.allsheanaturals.com for natural hair and body products.

“When residents don’t have access to fresh produce and meat, they have to eat whatever they can find in convenience stores or fast-food restaurants.”

Birmingham Times

August 1, 2024

JAMES HARRIS, PRESIDENT AND CEO, ON THE OPENING OF THE NEW CARVER JONES MARKET FAIRFIELD; BHAMNOW.COM, JULY 25.

Life Jackets and Vests Should Top Your Boating, Swimming Checklist

Birmingham Times

August 1, 2024

The end of summer can be seen off in the near distance which means people will continue to plan some additional outdoor water fun activities before summer ends. Therefore, our safety article will continue its focus on water safety for a few additional weeks. This week we will focus on life safety jackets/vests.

Life safety jackets/vests are often believed by many to be the best and only safety measure needed to prevent drownings for children and adults. Where it has some major water safety cautionary and preventive measures, there are some other safety factors which must be considered and practiced helping to ensure their effectiveness.

One of those factors is that the life safety jacket/vest must be U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) tested and approved. They should be worn by everyone when in or around open/natural bodies of water, and when boating. Check the label inside the life safety jacket/vest to ensure its USCG approval. The label should be legible and clear.

Life safety jackets/vests are often believed by many to be the best and only safety measure needed to prevent drownings for children and adults. (Adobe Stock)

Check all zippers, buckles, straps and other fasteners to make sure they are intact and work properly. Tug on the buckles and straps to make certain they do not break. Carefully inspect the life safety jacket/vest to confirm there are no rips, tears or mold on the life safety jacket/vest.

Another important safety factor to check for regarding life safety jackets/vests is that the flotation foam does not appear to be damaged. The life safety jacket/vest should float if placed in water.

Some life safety jackets/vests are inflatable. On these types of life safety jackets/vests check to verify that the air bladder can become inflated and stay inflated with no rips or tears to the material. Hold an inflatable life jacket/vest underwater and check for air bubbles. Air bubbles indicate holes in the safety life jacket/vest.

The Sea Tow Foundation states that if all the above safety factors are satisfied, the life safety jacket/vest is considered to be in “serviceable condition” by the U.S. Coast Guard. The foundation further states that if even one of these safety factors is not met, the life safety jacket/vest should not be purchased and/or used by anyone. It should be immediately discarded if it is a life safety jacket/vest you currently own and/or use.

Where water can be an extremely calming and tranquil environment with the potential for numerous fun activities, it can become a very dangerous environment in a matter of seconds. Therefore, it cannot be over emphasized that you must Keep an Eye on water safety for you and your loved ones at all times.

How Donald Trump Split The Most Prominent Group of Black Journalists in the U.S.

Birmingham Times

July 31, 2024

NABJ_0731 — Donald Trump’s invitation to address the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) has sparked an intense debate within the organization and a flurry of arguments online. (AP)

BY MATT BROWN | Associated Press

WASHINGTON — Donald Trump’s invitation to address the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) has sparked an intense debate within the organization and a flurry of arguments online.

Journalism organizations for people of color traditionally invite presidential candidates to address their summer gatherings during election years. But Trump’s acceptance of NABJ’s invitation has led at least one high-profile group member to step down as a convention co-chair and others to argue their convention may become a platform for Trump to make false claims or be seen as winning NABJ’s endorsement.

Meanwhile, the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), which represents over 250 African American-owned newspapers and media companies called for the NABJ leadership, to rescind the invitation.

Trump will be interviewed at 12 p.m. CDT Wednesday in Chicago by three reporters: Kadia Goba of Semafor, Rachel Scott of ABC News and Harris Faulkner of Fox News. Vice President Kamala Harris, the likely Democratic nominee and first Black woman to hold her office, is not currently scheduled to address the convention.

A person familiar with her schedule, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the Harris campaign was unable to find a time to appear at NABJ in person and claimed the organization turned down an offer for her to appear virtually.

The debate over NABJ’s invite reflects how many journalists are still grappling with how to approach Trump nearly a decade after his first presidential run. Some group members argued journalists should allow newsmakers to be heard, while others pointed to Trump’s demeaning of prominent Black journalists while president and his frequent attacks on the free press, including labeling reporters “the enemy of the people.”

Trump and NABJ also have a tense history over his treatment of Black women journalists. In 2018, NABJ condemned Trump for repeatedly using words such as “stupid,” “loser” and “nasty” to describe Black women journalists including several Black journalists such as Yamiche Alcindor of NBC News; Abby Phillip of CNN; and April Ryan of The Grio.

“The most powerful man in the free world is verbally abusing journalists,” said then-NABJ President Sarah Glover. “His dismissive comments toward journalists April Ryan, Abby Phillip and Yamiche Alcindor are appalling, irresponsible, and should be denounced.”

When Trump told Alcindor “don’t be threatening” during a 2020 press conference, then-NABJ President Dorothy Tucker condemned the remarks as “not only unnecessary but demeaning and inappropriate.”

Former presidents George W. Bush, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama have all attended NABJ. President Biden attended a virtual NABJ panel during his 2020 run for president where he received criticism for saying: “Unlike the African American community, with notable exceptions, the Latino community is an incredibly diverse community.”

But for many NABJ members, the decision to host Trump polarizes the organization and threatens the convention’s ethos, which aspires to safeguard and advance Black journalists.

“I understand that the job should put us in tough situations if we’re doing it in a meaningful way,” wrote Tyler J. Davis, an NABJ member and freelance journalist, in The TRiiBE, a local Chicago Black news outlet.

“But this isn’t a story assignment or a news conference or a newsroom. NABJ is a place of learning, networking and feeling supported. It’s a space for Black folks to feel safe and celebrated; for Black media, specifically, to feel safe and celebrated,” Davis wrote.

Ken Lemon, president of NABJ, insisted that the invitation was “absolutely not an endorsement.”

“We invited both of them, we got a yes from one of them,” Lemon said. “We’d love to get a yes from Kamala as well, but in this case this is an important hour.”

Lemon added that the event would be a “great opportunity for us to vet the candidate right here on our ground” and added that the association had worked with both campaigns for “probably for more than a month” and each had given “the inclination that both were interested in being a part of what we’re doing.”

Yet, Lemon and other leaders at NABJ have faced internal backlash and calls to resign since Trump’s appearance was announced.

Karen Attiah, a global opinions columnist for The Washington Post, stepped down as the co-chair of the 2024 convention in the wake of the announcement of Trump’s appearance.

“To the journalists interviewing Trump, I wish them the best of luck,” Attiah wrote on social media. “While my decision was influenced by a variety of factors, I was not involved or consulted with in any way with the decision to platform Trump in such a format,” she continued.

NNPA National Chair Bobby Henry said he “strongly opposes” Trump’s participation at the NABJ convention. The NNPA, of which The Birmingham Times is a member, has been a pillar of the Black Press of America for 197 years.

“His divisive rhetoric and actions have harmed marginalized communities, particularly the Black community,” Henry said. “Allowing him a platform at this event undermines the NABJ’s values of inclusion and solidarity and risks normalizing his damaging behavior.”

NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. said it was “a tragic affront to Black America for NABJ” to have the former president at the convention.

“The NNPA urgently calls upon NABJ leadership to immediately rescind the invitation,” Chavis said. “The eyes of Black America and the world are watching with shame and disgust.”

Some industry leaders pushed back on the claim that Black journalists should not take opportunities to interview Trump, noting that any opportunity to hold powerful figures to account should not be wasted and that NABJ as a forum is especially suited to that mission.

“To suggest they not interview a Presidential candidate on issues relevant to the organization’s constituency is outrageous,” Rana Cash, the executive editor of the Charlotte Observer and an NABJ member, wrote on X.

This post was updated at 9:18 a.m. on 7/31/2024 to include the following:

A Message from NABJ President Ken Lemon:

NABJ has been in talks with both the Democratic and Republican parties since January. NABJ was in contact with Vice President Kamala Harris’ team for an in-person panel before President Joe Biden dropped out of the race in July.

However, we were advised by her campaign that her schedule could not accommodate this request. The last update we were provided was that Harris would not be available in person or virtually during our Convention. We are in talks about virtual options in the future and are still working to reach an agreement.

I consulted with a group of our Founders and past NABJ Presidents Tuesday on-site in Chicago, and as a group, we affirmed that the invitation to former President Trump was in line with NABJ’s usual practices since 1976. It has always been our policy to ensure that candidates know that an invitation is not an endorsement. We also agreed that while this race is much different — and contentious — so are the consequences.

While we acknowledge the concerns expressed by our members, we believe it is important for us to provide our members with the opportunity to hear directly from candidates and hold them accountable. We also want to provide our members with the facts. We have partnered with PolitiFact for live fact-checking using the hashtag #NABJFactCheck and via our initial announcement link here: bit.ly/NABJ24ConversationWithTrump.

FAQs

Why was Former President Donald J. Trump invited to the NABJ Annual Convention & Career Fair?

Invitations were sent to all 2024 presidential candidates so Black journalists have the opportunity to question and hold those in positions of power accountable. It is important to note that an invitation is not an endorsement.

Was it a last-minute decision to invite him to #NABJ24?

No, NABJ has been actively working with both the Democratic and Republican parties for several months. However, due to scheduling issues, Trump’s attendance was not officially confirmed until this week.

Was Vice President Kamala Harris invited to #NABJ24?

Yes, Vice President Harris was invited to #NABJ24. Her team informed us she was unable to attend the Convention.

How were the moderators selected?

Rachel Scott (ABC News), Harris Faulkner (FOX News) and Kadia Goba (Semafor) were recommended by NABJ.

How will the Black Press be included?

Prior to the Convention, NABJ directly reached out to Black Press at the local and national levels to ensure they received media credentials. Special attention has been given to the Black Press to ensure they have appropriate placement for coverage during the event.

How long will the event last?

The event is scheduled to last one hour. Times and lengths are subject to change.

Will the event be fact checked?

NABJ is working with PolitiFact to provide live fact-checking updates using the hashtag #NABJFactCheck. A link to view live updates will be available here: bit.ly/NABJ24ConversationWithTrump.

Will questions be taken from the audience?

No, questions will not be taken from the audience.

Did NABJ pay for or receive funding for Trump’s appearance at #NABJ24?

As a 501(c)(3) organization, NABJ does not accept political donations or pay for political appearances at our events. We did not use #NABJ24 Registration fees or NABJ membership dues to fund the appearance of Former President Donald Trump. NABJ is a nonpartisan organization and does not endorse any political candidate.

Will the event be livestreamed?

Yes, the interview will be livestreamed via NABJ’s YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@NABJOfficial/streams and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/NABJOfficial/.

Will there be an overflow room?

No, once the International Ballroom has reached capacity, attendees are advised to watch the livestream.

Associated Press writer Seung Min Kim in Washington contributed to this report.

Racial Disparities Persist as Alabama Infant Mortality Rate Drops

Birmingham Times

July 31, 2024

Black african newborn baby — In Alabama, Black infant mortality is nearly three times higher than white infant mortality. (Adobe Stock)

By Alander Rocha | Alabama Reflector

Alabama’s infant mortality rate continued a downward trend in 2022 even as infant deaths rose in the nation for the first time in nearly a decade, according to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report.

But Alabama’s infant mortality rate, which decreased to 6.58 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2022, remains higher than the national average, which increased from 5.44 deaths in 2021 to 5.61. And major racial disparities persist, with Black infant mortality nearly three times higher than white infant mortality.

Dr. Wes Stubblefield, the district medical officer at the Alabama Department of Public Health and a pediatrician, said Friday that the infant mortality improvements have been due to some department programs proving to be effective, though the department is still monitoring the data.

“We have had some improvement, although disparities persist,” he said.

The Fetal and Infant Mortality Review (FIMR) Program is a department initiative to review fetal and infant death cases. It conducts voluntary maternal interviews to improve the health of women, infants, and families. The team reviews case summaries, identifies issues, and recommends community changes. Stubblefield suggested data shows programs could be helping address maternal health disparities.

Ongoing Challenges

While Alabama’s progress is positive, the increase in the national average suggests ongoing challenges.

Compared to Alabama, the CDC report indicates that the overall number of infant deaths in the U.S. rose by 3 percent from 19,928 in 2021 to 20,577 in 2022. The neonatal mortality rate (deaths of infants less than 28 days old) also saw a 3 percent increase, while the postneonatal mortality rate (deaths of infants 28 days to less than one year old) increased by 4 percent.

Racial disparities in infant mortality persist across the country and in Alabama, with Black infants experiencing the highest mortality rate at 10.90 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2022 across the nation, followed by American Indian and Alaska Native infants at 9.06.

In Alabama, the infant mortality rate for Black infants was 12.4 per 1,000 live births in 2022. That’s an increase from 11 deaths per 1,000 in 2018, when numbers started to increase after a drop from 15.3 percent in 2015. For white infants, the mortality rate in 2022 was 4.3 per 1,000, an all-time low.

White infants account for 69.8 percent of births in Alabama but make up 44.5 percent of deaths. Black infants account for 28 percent of births but 51.4 percent of deaths.

The Black Belt

Counties in the Black Belt had some of the highest rates of infant mortality, well above the state average. Perry County’s infant mortality rate was 20.4 deaths per 1,000 live births. Pickens, Sumter, Perry, Conecuh and Butler counties followed respectively, with rates between 15.1 and 15.6 rate of mortality per 1,000 live births.

Many medical centers in the Black Belt don’t have labor and delivery units, forcing many expectant mothers to drive hours to have infants delivered.

Aretha Dix, a rural health care strategist with Lebleu Fields, a wellness consulting firm, said that partnerships between the health care community and rural residents are essential for improving maternal health. Consistent education on overall health, prenatal care and labor practices is needed, she said, along with efforts to overcome barriers to care access and follow-up.

25 counties in Alabama as maternity deserts, lacking obstetrics services or obstetricians available for residents, according to a 2022 report from the March of Dimes. Another 21 counties are classified as places with low access to maternity care.

She said Alabama still has maternity care deserts, particularly in the Black Belt.

“Although there may be medical centers in the Black Belt, they don’t have a prenatal care opportunities or labor and delivery units for expectant mothers,” Dix said. “This means that the expectant mothers have to drive hours to have their infants delivered. Issues that may impact that level of care are lack of resources such as transportation and money.”

She also said that expectant mothers may show up at the ER if they don’t have an established maternal health relationship at that facility, causing issues or delays in the delivery process since providers may not have a full health history on the mother.

Birmingham Celebrates Centennial of 3 Local Black Greek-letter Organizations

Birmingham Times

July 31, 2024

Greek 2 — Three Black Greek-letter organizations gathered in Birmingham City Hall on Tuesday as Mayor Randall Woodfin honored the collective centennial anniversaries in the city of each group. (Provided)

By Sym Posey | The Birmingham Times

A sea of pink, green, blue, and purple brightened City Hall on Tuesday as Birmingham honored the collective centennial anniversaries of three Black Greek-letter organizations in a special photo exhibition celebrating the groups and their service to the City.

Three Legacies, One Century recognizes the collective centennial anniversaries of The TAU Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated; The Alpha Phi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated; and The Omicron Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

“Sustaining an organization for 100 years is a major feat that is not easy. It’s not simple, and what’s represented here is the next generation,” Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin said during the unveiling. “The torch has been passed to represent and sustain these organizations. These college-educated African Americans you see standing here have maintained their mission … to serve our community for decades in spite of many challenges.”

Since 1924, each organization has continued to inspire and build up surrounding Birmingham communities through scholarships, education, and serving as role models, the City said.

Pauline Parker, President of Omicron Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. (Provided)

Pauline Parker, President of Omicron Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., said seven educated, brave, and courageous women brought the sorority to Birmingham. “They were trailblazers … and we stand on the shoulders of giants,” said Parker, about the current 440 members.

Parker said she hopes that when people visit the exhibit that will inspire younger generations to create change in their communities “to make this world better … to give back to [their] community. We are always lifting people up, so that’s what we want to do.”

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., an international service organization, was founded on the campus of Howard University in Washington, D.C. in 1908. It is the oldest Greek-letter organization established by African American college-educated women. Birmingham’s Omicron Omega Chapter was chartered on Oct. 24, 1924.
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., is an international organization comprised of 225,000 college-educated men, and built primarily on the ideology of promoting brotherhood, scholarship, and service. Over its one hundred plus years of existence, the fraternity has focused on improving the global community through dedicated service. Birmingham’s Tau Sigma Chapter was chartered on Jan. 9, 1924. Joseph Fenderson is the chapter president.
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. was founded as the first international fraternal organization on the campus of a historically Black college on Nov. 17, 1911, in Washington, D.C. Its cardinal principles are manhood, scholarship, perseverance, and uplift. Birmingham’s Alpha Phi Chapter was chartered on July 5, 1924. Robert Averhart is the chapter president.

The Three Legacies, One Century will be on display through September 2024, on Mondays through Fridays, from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. on the second floor of City Hall. For more information visit www.birminghamal.gov/threelegacies.

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