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‘It Was Church’: Alabama State Sen. Merika Coleman Joined 40,000 Other Black Women on Zoom to Support Kamala Harris

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Birmingham Times
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State Senator Merika Coleman (D-Pleasant Grove) has announced her candidacy for Treasurer of the Democratic National Committee. (Brian Lyman, File)

By Sym Posey | The Birmingham Times

Four years ago, a Zoom meeting to build support for Kamala Harris as the Democratic vice presidential nominee attracted just 90 participants. On Sunday night, an estimated 40,000 Black women and allies logged on to Zoom and another 50,000 women on other platforms at the same time to support her brand-new presidential campaign.

Among those was State Sen. Merika Coleman (D-Pleasant Grove) who said the virtual gathering was “church. It was a celebration of sisterhood, but it was also a call to action,” she told The Birmingham Times on Tuesday. “It was supposed to be a max of 1,000 people on the call, then we got notice that they were going to up it and it went 3,000 and it just continued to grow and grow. That’s the excitement of Black women all over the country.”

The excitement and discussion came just hours after President Joe Biden announced the end of his reelection campaign and endorsement of Harris.

Zoom typically maxes out at 1,000 participants but a female executive at the video conferencing company stepped in to increase the capacity to 40,000, said Aimee Allison, who has attended many of the weekly calls organized by the #WinWithBlackWomen network over the years.

“It was thrilling,” Allison said. “It wasn’t chaos. The infrastructure was there amongst Black women to be able to scale and meet the moment. And I think this is the difference Kamala Harris is injecting into the race.”

Coleman is one of 52 delegates plus 4 delegates from Alabama who will be in Chicago Aug. 19-22 to nominate Harris to be the Democrat nominee for president in the Nov. 5 general election against Republican Donald Trump. The state senator said Harris is the best person to represent the Democratic Party.

“I think [she] was the only pick that [Biden] could’ve made,” Coleman said. “He said in his endorsement that he would have never picked her as his Vice-Presidential running mate or his Vice President if he did not believe she was ready to be President on day one. I support her wholeheartedly. I’ve already given my official endorsement and change my paperwork [to Harris from Biden] with the DNC, “said Coleman.

Harris is by far “one of the most qualified presidential candidates that we’ve ever had, and she just happens to be a woman and happens to be African American as well,” Coleman continued, “… she’s a former prosecutor, former attorney general, and former U.S. Senator, and now the current Vice President of the United States.”

Jefferson County Commissioner Shelia Tyson (File)

Jefferson County Commissioner Shelia Tyson, who received more votes for Alabama delegate in the elections earlier this year, and was also on the Zoom call said Harris brings a strong resume to the race.

“If you look at her background, being an attorney, being a prosecutor …  She went to an Historically Black College and University (HBCU), and she belongs to the AKA (Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority) which puts her around a diversity of people, a whole different group of people with different issues and the way she voted on things as the Vice President. She has everything we need in order to lead this country.”

Black voters in general, and women in particular, were key to Biden’s victories in both the 2020 primaries and general election. While Donald Trump had a modest advantage among white women, Biden won overwhelmingly among Black women, 93 percent to Trump’s 6 percent, according to AP VoteCast, a survey of more than 110,000 voters.

Just last week, more than 1,300 Black female leaders and allies published a letter supporting Biden and Harris. But if Sunday and Monday’s calls are any indication, they’re now all-in for Harris, who is of Black and Indian descent.

“This wasn’t just policy people or legislative people or elected officials. This was across the board. Everybody came with their toolbox and was like, okay, so how do we pitch in?” said Angelique Roche, a writer and consultant who described the Sunday Zoom call as powerful and galvanizing.

“These were different generations with different education levels, different jobs, different backgrounds, different industries, all coming to the table and saying, we’re ready, we’re in,” she said.

Earlier this month, Harris herself extolled “the power of sisterhood and service” when she addressed the annual gathering of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, which she joined as a student at Howard University, one of the nation’s most storied historically Black colleges.

“Our nation is counting on the leaders in this room to guide us forward,” she told the crowd of Black women, some shaking pompoms to cheer her on. “When we mobilize, nations change. And when we vote, we make history.”

Associated Press contributed to this report.

University of Alabama Systems Close DEI Offices, Open New Ones Under Different Names

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Birmingham Times
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All three University of Alabama System campuses will be closing their diversity, equity and inclusion offices and opening new offices under different names. (File)

By Alaina Bookman | abookman@al.com

All three University of Alabama System campuses will be closing their diversity, equity and inclusion offices and opening new offices under different names.

The schools cite a law recently signed by Gov. Kay Ivey that bans DEI offices, programming and training in public colleges and other state agencies. SB129 becomes effective Oct. 1, 2024.

“Our mission has not wavered, and we remain committed to our institutional goals to welcome all, serve all and see all thrive and succeed,” University of Alabama President Stuart Bell wrote in a statement.

A UA spokesperson said no Tuscaloosa staff have been fired; a UA System spokeswoman similarly said that no system-level staff have been fired, but that “duties and responsibilities of impacted employees will be adjusted.”

It’s not clear whether any of the schools are making significant changes to staff responsibilities and programming — or just renaming offices and projects.

In Tuscaloosa, the Division of Opportunities, Connections and Success has been opened and will be led by Christine Taylor, who formerly led the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

And the University of Alabama at Birmingham is erecting a new Office of Access and Engagement, led by Paulette Dilworth, who formerly led the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

The University of Alabama at Huntsville, similarly, is shifting efforts toward recruiting students and engaging current students.

In an internal email Tuesday, UAB President Ray Watts said the new office will focus on making sure “everyone has access to available programs and resources they need to succeed,” and pointing out plans to support students and faculty who are first-generation students, veterans or coming from rural areas.

Watts also stressed that legal protections remain for research, teaching and programming that support specific gender, race and affinity groups.
Bell said UA remains committed to diversity of speech and thought.
“Differences, including differences of opinion shared with civility, strengthen our campus community. Our faculty, staff and students will continue to engage in free speech, exercise academic freedom and join in wide-ranging thought and discussion on issues that impact our world,” Bell wrote.
Other campuses have seen similar changes this year. Earlier in the summer, Jacksonville State closed its DEI office.

And at the University of Texas at Austin, about 50 staff members who previously worked in diversity, equity and inclusion roles were laid off in compliance with state law, according to news reports.

Universities also are managing updated guidance since the U.S. Supreme Court in 2023 struck down race-conscious admissions. Alabama colleges do not practice race-conscious admissions, but have shifted their approach to some scholarship and affinity programs.

Birmingham Medical Professionals on What to Know During Fibroid Awareness Month

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Birmingham Times
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Whether you choose the medical route or the holistic route to treat fibroids, it’s always best to consult a doctor or holistic practitioner so that you are provided with all available and safe options. (Adobe Stock)

By Ameera Steward | For The Birmingham Times

With the month of July, observed nationally as Fibroid Awareness Month, coming to an end, we decided to take a look at some of our past reporting on fibroids to create a list on how women with fibroids can shrink or heal theirs — outside of getting a hysterectomy (the partial or total surgical removal of the uterus).

Small fibroids may shrink or disappear without intervention in some cases. Researchers believe this happens when estrogen levels drop, as in menopause.

However, this isn’t the case for all women. Only about 10 percent of fibroids get smaller or resolve on their own. The likelihood of this depends on numerous factors, such as their size, location, and individual circumstances. It’s important to see a medical specialist to assess your unique situation and determine the most appropriate course of treatment.

After reviewing past articles with area medical professionals such as Ebonee Lyons, DNP, Tomeka Roberts, M.D., and Osunde Ajala, yoni steam practitioner we discussed some medical and holistic practices that will help women live with their fibroids.

Here’s what we found:

Medical: 

Keep up with regular checkups to treat fibroids early on.

Acessa: An outpatient procedure that destroys fibroid tissue using a thin radiofrequency needle. During the procedure, which is performed under anesthesia, Acessa can thermally “dehydrate” uterine fibroids. The technology changes the consistency of the fibroid from a baseball to a marshmallow. a procedure allows for a thorough and minimally invasive method of treating fibroids.

Laparoscopic myomectomy is a minimally invasive procedure to remove uterine fibroids. A surgeon makes four tiny incisions in the abdomen then uses a laparoscope, which is a special instrument that contains a light and video camera, to operate through the incisions. The surgeon views the surgery on a video monitor.

Hysteroscopic myomectomy is the most minimally invasive procedure to treat fibroids. A surgeon removes fibroids by inserting a hysteroscope into the uterine cavity through the vagina and cervix. A hysteroscope is a rigid tube with a light that has an operative element that can remove fibroid tissue.

Holistic:

Yoni/vaginal steaming: a woman sits on a special stool or seat over a pot of steaming herbs to help clean the uterus, shrink or heal fibroids, reduce heavy bleeding, and reduce pain.

Staying clear of foods that contribute to weight gain and fibroid growth. These foods include red meat, dairy, and processed sugar.

Heat therapy: through methods such as placing a heating pad on the womb, placing a hot water bottle on the womb, or using a sauna or steam room. This method reduces inflammation and relaxes the level of stress a person has. The heat penetrates fatty tissues and helps relieve abnormal cell growth.

Yoga: practicing yoga stretches the uterine region, sends blood flow to the uterine region, and reduces stress overall. For these purposes, it is best to practice restful yoga as opposed to the more active classes.

Whether you choose the medical route or the holistic route, it’s always best to consult a doctor or holistic practitioner so that you are provided with all available and safe options. Consulting a doctor or practitioner will also assist you in finding what works best for your body, specifically when it comes to what type of fibroids you’re dealing with as well as how severe your symptoms.

For more information on fibroid health here’s a list of past stories regarding fibroid health:

What women need to know about fibroids and potential risks | The Birmingham Times

Osunde Ajala helps women experience the benefits of Yoni Steams | The Birmingham Times

Ascension St. Vincent’s Builds on a New Advancement in Treating Fibroids | The Birmingham Times

‘I Was Willing to Wait Because I Knew She Would Be My Wife [And] It Happened Right on Time’

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Birmingham Times
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BY KEISA SHARPE | Special to the Birmingham Times

JOY AND ROBERT EVERSON

Live: Bessemer

Married: Nov. 6, 1993

Met: Pine Valley in the summer of 1982 when both were teens. Joy remembers visiting the park (located just outside of Trussville) when she was 12 and Robert was 13.

Joy went on a family trip with her cousin Rhonda Briggins, who was also a close friend throughout elementary (McElwain Elementary and Woodrow Wilson Elementary and middle school (Putnam Middle School) in Birmingham. They enjoyed the trip and toward the end of it “as we were getting back on the bus to leave Pine Valley, Robert and I noticed each other,” recalled Joy. “Not knowing it then, but I learned later that Rhonda and Honey Bee (Robert) were cousins.”

After that meeting, Joy and Robert would ask Rhonda about one another.

At age 14, Joy moved from Birmingham in fall 1985 as her dad was a member of the United States Army. Her travels with her family would take her to Fort Campbell, Kentucky to finish high school.

First date: After Robert graduated from Jackson Olin High School in 1987 , Joy moved back to Birmingham after graduating from Fort Campbell High School Kentucky in 1989. and “that’s when we looked each other back up,” said Robert.

Robert and Joy’s first “dates” would often involve others.

“My friends and I would ride through the community of Thomas (near Forestdale in Jefferson County) just so I could see Honey Bee,” said Joy. “He would be with his friends and we would all laugh and have fun. We would go to Put Put Golf, the movies, bowling and other activities with friends.”

The turn: It’d be several years later before they became serious. Joy had two children and Robert had one child from previous relationships.

“I graduated in 1992 from cosmetology school and was pregnant with my second child,” said Joy. “Honey Bee and I would talk on the phone forever and he would listen to me.”

As they talked, their feelings grew. “We were both established in our jobs,” said Robert. “We both wanted more than what we had experienced in our previous relationships.”

The proposal: Rather than a formal proposal, Robert and Joy say it was more of a mutual decision to marry. Heart-to-heart, serious phone conversations had been a mainstay of her friendship with Robert and in February 1993 the decision was made. She had just had her son and a bad snowstorm hit the Magic City and the circumstances led to an epiphany for her.

“We started talking about marriage on the phone and in person,” said Joy. “I realized that I was done with any previous relationships, and we set a date to get married November 1993.”

Robert says there was never any doubt about his spouse. “I knew Joy was my wife and I didn’t have to look any further. I was willing to wait on her because I knew she would be my wife. It happened right on time.

Joy and Eobert Everson met in the summer of 1982 when they were both teenagers. The couple reconnected in 1985 and married in 1993. (Provided Photos)

The wedding: Most memorable for the Eversons wasn’t the actual ceremony. It was what happened the night before.

“Myself, my female cousins and friends went to T’s Club (a club that’s now closed in downtown Birmingham) for a hot 30 minutes and I used the car of my husband-to-be. When we came back out, Honey Bee’s car had been broken into … and all of our purses were stolen and a mink coat was gone,” she said.

And that’s not all. Their marriage license and wedding cake money were in Joy’s purse, which was stolen. But the groom-to-be came to the rescue.

Robert says he “came riding through just on time … and the police were there, and they were able to locate the robbers.” All of their stolen items were returned.

Their wedding colors were cream, teal and black and family helped them pull off their big day without a hitch.

“From Minister Michael Everson, Sr., who is my husband’s oldest brother, to the flowers, to decorations, dress, veil and food … they were all done or provided by family members. Our wedding was the most inexpensive, beautiful, big wedding. If I would put a price on it, I would say we spent less than $1,000 dollars out of our pocket. Our family was amazing.”

The Eversons also say they also remembered the wonderful prayer prayed over them during the ceremony.

The couple honeymooned in Las Vegas after the wedding.

Words of Wisdom: “Put God first, then live, laugh and love,” Robert said. “Appreciate life and enjoy every moment while making memories to last forever.”

Joy added, “Sometimes it takes asking one another for forgiveness. It’s perfectly ok if you are wrong. Acknowledge it and continue to walk in love,” she said.

Happily Ever After: The Eversons have been married 30 years and will celebrate their next anniversary in November.

Robert, 55, is a 1987 graduate of Jackson Olin High School, works for FedEx and is an Associate Pastor at Love, Joy, Peace Ministries in Tarrant.

Joy, 53, a licensed REALTOR with RealtySouth Shelby (Joy Everson Real Estate Group), graduated from Fort Campbell High School in Kentucky in 1989 and Ayers State Community College in Oxford with a certificate in cosmetology 1991-1992.

The couple enjoys spending time with their children, grandchildren, family and church family and enjoy traveling.

Their blended family includes a son Brandon, who was killed in 2018 ; son Jaylin (31); and daughters CaTerri (34); CaTyndra (28); and CaTericka (25).

They have seven grandchildren – four boys and three girls and are expecting another granddaughter in September.

“You Had Me at Hello’’ highlights married couples and the love that binds them. If you would like to be considered for a future “Hello’’ column, or know someone, please send nominations to Barnett Wright bwright@birminghamtimes.com. Include the couple’s name, contact number(s) and what makes their love story unique.

Birmingham Personal Injury Attorney | Guster Law Firm, LLC

Who Are Some Members of the Alabama Delegation Who Endorsed Kamala Harris as Nominee for President?

By
Birmingham Times
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Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a campaign event earlier this month. She is now working to gain the Democratic nomination for president. (Associated Press)

By Barnett Wright | The Birmingham Times

Alabama delegates to the Democratic National Convention (DNC) on Monday night unanimously endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the nominee for president.

Congresswoman Terri Sewell, chair of the Alabama delegation, said in a press release the delegates were all in for Harris. “We are immensely grateful to President Biden for his transformative leadership, and we look forward to continuing his legacy of accomplishment under Vice President Kamala Harris,” Sewell said.

Biden on Sunday announced he would not run for a second term. Harris will face former President Donald Trump, the Republican nominee, in the Nov. 5 general election.

Alabama has 52 delegates, plus four alternates, to the DNC which will be held Aug. 19 to 22 in Chicago.

Here’s a look at some in the Alabama delegation who will serve in operational roles. Each individual is named, followed by their titles and positions in the delegation.

  • Randall Woodfin, Mayor, City of Birmingham/Party Leaders and Elected Officials, or PLEO
  • Steven Reed, Mayor City of Montgomery/PLEO
  • Merika Coleman, State Senator, Pleasant Grove/PLEO
  • Adline Clarke, Alabama House of Representatives, 97th district/PLEO
  • Doug Jones, former U.S. Senator/PLEO
  • Don Siegelman, former Alabama Governor/PLEO
  • Juandalynn Givan, Alabama House of Representatives, 60th district/PLEO
  • Marilyn Lands, Alabama House of Representatives, District 10/At-Large
  • Earl Hilliard Jr., City of Birmingham/At-Large
  • Jamie Lowe, Chair, Lee County Democratic Executive Committee (Delegate Captain)/At-Large
  • Abina Billups, Deputy to the President, Talladega College/At-Large
  • Bobbie Knight, President, Miles College/At-Large
  • Shomari Figures, Candidate, U.S. House Alabama District 2/At-Large
  • Shelia Smoot, Executive Board State Democratic Executive Committee/At-Large
  • Donna Foster, ADC Chair, Tuscaloosa/At-Large
  • Mark Pettway, Sheriff, Jefferson County/At-Large
  • Vanessa Pettway, Jefferson County/At-Large
  • Joe L. Reed, Chair, Alabama Democratic Conference/Minority Chair Alabama Democratic Party/At-Large
  • Tereshia Huffman, Chair, Birmingham Water Works Board/Alternate
  • James Spearman, former executive director of the Alabama Democratic Party/Alternate
  • Amerika Blair, former chair of the Montgomery Education Foundation/Alternate
  • Earl Hilliard Sr., former U.S. Congressman/Alternate
  • Doug Turner, Senior Fellow, Center for American Progress/Platform Committee
  • Jarralynne Agee, Senior Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, Miles College/Platform Committee
  • Courtney French, Birmingham lawyer, entrepreneur/Rules Committee
  • Tyna Davis, Manager Education Police and Professional Practice, Alabama Education Association/Rules Committee
  • William Parker, former Birmingham City Council President/Credentials Committee
  • Marisol Urena, Human Resources Supervisor, Florence-Muscle Shoals/Credentials Committee

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, Biden Delegate, On Why He’s Supporting Kamala Harris

By
Birmingham Times
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Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin on Sunday put his full support behind Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party’s nominee for President. (Provided)

By Barnett Wright | The Birmingham Times

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, a longtime ally of President Joe Biden, on Sunday put his full support behind Vice President Kamala Harris, saying she brings vigor, leadership, resilience, and commitment to progress as the Democratic Party’s nominee for President.

Biden dropped out of the 2024 race for the White House on Sunday, ending his bid for reelection just four months before the election. The President threw his support behind Harris, the party’s instant favorite for the nomination at its August convention in Chicago.

Woodfin, a 2024 Biden delegate, said he would encourage “the entire Democratic Party, the base, Progressives, young folks, women, elites, money folks … everyone, moderates to [support] Kamala Harris  … it’s all about uniting the party and winning the election in November” against Republican candidate Donald Trump, he said.

Alabama Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell released a statement that said she plans “to do everything in my power, from now until November, to make Kamala Harris the next President of the United States.”

Late Sunday, delegations in North Carolina and Tennessee came out in unanimous support of Harris and South Carolina Democrats also delivered a public vote of confidence.

Biden’s endorsement of Harris speaks volumes, the mayor said. “If Biden would have stayed in the race, I also think he would have won in November, now that he’s thrown his support behind Kamala Harris. I think that guarantees she will win in November as well,” Woodfin told The Times.

Harris is the first woman, Black person or person of South Asian descent to serve as vice president. If she becomes the Democratic nominee and defeats Trump in November, she would be the first woman to serve as president.

Harris described Biden’s decision to step aside as a “selfless and patriotic act,” saying he was “putting the American people and our country above everything else.”

“I am honored to have the President’s endorsement and my intention is to earn and win this nomination,” Harris said. “Over the past year, I have traveled across the country, talking with Americans about the clear choice in this momentous election.”

Sewell said Biden will go down in history “as one of the most consequential and transformational leaders America has ever seen.”

“At a time of great uncertainty, President Biden rescued our nation from a pandemic, beat back attacks on our democracy, and restored decency to the White House,” Sewell said. “I was proud to work alongside him to deliver billions of dollars in infrastructure investments to Alabama, lower health care and prescription drug costs, cancel student debt, and so much more.

She added, “November’s election remains the most critical of our lifetime, when our rights and freedoms hang in the balance. For the sake of our democracy, we as Democrats should come together, follow President Biden’s lead, and unite behind Kamala Harris as our nominee.”

Associated Press contributed to this post.

Harris Receives Growing Chorus of Endorsements as the Democratic Party’s Presidential Nominee

By
Birmingham Times
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“My intention is to earn and win this nomination,” Vice President Kamala Harris declared in a statement as she was thrust into the presidential race with the decision from Joe Biden to step down. (White House)

 www.msn.com

Vice President Kamala Harris thanked President Joe Biden for his leadership following the news Sunday that he will not continue his bid for reelection.

Her statement comes amid a growing chorus of endorsements for her candidacy in the 2024 presidential race.

“On behalf of the American people, I thank Joe Biden for his extraordinary leadership as president of the United States and for his decades of service to our country,” she said in a statement released Sunday.

Election 2024 updates: Harris says she intends to seek nomination for president

“His remarkable legacy of accomplishment is unmatched in modern American history, surpassing the legacy of many presidents who have served two terms in office,” she said.

Biden endorsed Harris in his statement on his exiting the race, offering his “full support and endorsement” of her as the Democratic Party’s presidential nominee.

At a July 11 press conference, Biden also hinted at his belief in Harris’ ability to lead, saying at the time: “I wouldn’t have picked her unless I thought she was qualified to be president.”

In a poll released July 11, asking if Harris were to replace Biden as the nominee, vote choices were 49-46 percent, Harris-Donald Trump, among all adults (and 49-47 percent, respectively, among registered voters). Harris’ 49 percent was slightly better than Biden’s 46 percent, although she doesn’t have a statistically significant lead over Trump, the poll found.

Clintons Endorse

Former President Bill Clinton and former presidential candidate and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton also endorsed Harris on Sunday.

“We are honored to join the president in endorsing Vice President Harris and will do whatever we can to support her,” the two said in a statement on X.

Several House reps endorsed Harris on Sunday, issuing statements of support and thanking Biden for his decision to step down.

“Kamala Harris will be the next President of the United States. I pledge my full support to ensure her victory in November. Now more than ever, it is crucial that our party and country swiftly unite to defeat Donald Trump and the threat to American democracy. Let’s get to work,” Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said in a statement.

Ilhan Omar wrote on X, “Thank you, Mr. President. This was the president’s decision to make and I’m grateful for his years of service to our country. Thrilled to support @KamalaHarris as our Democratic nominee and remain committed to working alongside her to defeat Donald Trump in November.”

Ayanna Pressley wrote on X, “Thank you for your dedicated service President @JoeBiden. And @KamalaHarris. I’m all in, let’s go. #BlackWomenLead.”

Delia Ramirez wrote, “We must defeat Donald Trump. VP @KamalaHarris is the proven, qualified leader ready to move our country forward. She has my endorsement. I look forward to working with her to realize a permanent ceasefire, immigration reform, and a bold agenda that centers working families.”

Greg Casar, D-TX, posted, “I am ready to elect @KamalaHarris as President. Together we can defeat Trump in November — and together we can raise wages for workers, restore abortion rights, win a lasting ceasefire in Gaza, and preserve our democracy for generations to come.”

Jamaal Bowman wrote, “Now that President Biden has suspended his campaign, Vice President Kamala Harris is the most qualified and best choice to lead us forward.”

Rep. Adam Schiff posted, “Joe Biden will go down in history as one of the greatest presidents of our time. He led our nation out of a deadly pandemic and rescued our economy,” adding, “I am excited to endorse @KamalaHarris for President, and give her my full support!”

Read President Joe Biden’s full letter announcing he’s leaving 2024 race

House And Senate Endorsements

In the House, Harris has received endorsements so far from:

Rep. Jamal Bowman, D-N.Y.; Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash.; Rep. Ami Bera, D-Calif.; Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif.; Rep. Joaquin Castro, D-Texas; Rep. Salud Carbajal, D-Calif.; Rep. Dan Kildee, D-Mich.; Rep. Haley Stevens, D-Mich.; Rep. Cori Bush, D-Mo.; Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn.; Rep. Maxwell Frost, D-Fla.; Rep. Frederica Wilson, D-Fla.; Rep. Susie Lee, D-Nev.; Rep. John Garamendi, D-Calif.; Rep. Hank Johnson, D-Ga.; Rep. Gwen Moore, D-Wis.; Rep. Sean Casten, D-Ill.; Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y.; Rep. Jim Clyburn, D-S.C.; Rep. Debbie Dingell, D-Mich.; Rep. Bobby Scott, D-Va.; Rep. Don Beyer, D-Va., and Rep. Suzanne Bonamici, D-Ore. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., Ilhan Omar, D-Min., Ayanna Pressley, D-Mass., Delia Ramirez, D-Ill., Greg Casar, D-TX, Summer Lee, D-Penn., Cori Bush, D-MO, Adam Schiff, D-Calif.

In the Senate, Harris has received endorsements so far from:

Sen. Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii; Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va.; Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va.; Sen. Tina Smith, D-Minn.; Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash.; Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass.; Sen. Ed Markey, D- Mass.; Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn.; Sen. Laphonza Butler, D-Calif.; Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn.; Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del.; Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., and Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif.

Former Sec. of State John Kerry threw his weight behind Harris, writing on X, “For democracy, alliances, economic fairness, and the future of our planet, now is the time to listen to the only person who has ever beaten Donald Trump, and join with President Biden in every effort to make Vice President Harris the next President of the United States. No citizen of good conscience should stay on the sidelines.”

“Patriot Worthy Of Our Support”

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro also backed Harris, calling her a “patriot worthy of our support.”

“I’ve known Kamala Harris for nearly two decades – we’ve both been prosecutors, we’ve both stood up for the rule of law, we’ve both fought for the people and delivered results. Kamala Harris is a patriot worthy of our support and she will continue the work of generations of Americans who came before us to perfect our union, protect our democracy, and advance real freedom. She has served the country honorably as Vice President and she is ready to be President,” Shapiro said in his statement.

“The best path forward for the Democratic Party is to quickly unite behind Vice President Harris and refocus on winning the presidency,” he continued. “The contrast in this race could not be clearer and the road to victory in November runs right through Pennsylvania – where this collective work began. I will do everything I can to help elect Kamala Harris as the 47th President of the United States.”

North Carolina Roy Cooper also endorsed Harris, writing on X, “Kamala Harris should be the next President. I’ve known @VP going back to our days as AGs, and she has what it takes to defeat Donald Trump and lead our country thoughtfully and with integrity. I look forward to campaigning for her as we work to win NC up and down the ticket.”

California Gov. Gavin Newsom also announced his support for Harris, a former state senator and attorney general.

“Tough. Fearless. Tenacious,” he wrote on X. “With our democracy at stake and our future on the line, no one is better to prosecute the case against Donald Trump’s dark vision and guide our country in a healthier direction than America’s Vice President, @KamalaHarris.”

Transportation Sec. Pete Buttigieg said in a statement, “Kamala Harris is now the right person to take up the torch, defeat Donald Trump, and succeed Joe Biden as President. I have seen her extraordinary leadership firsthand, working closely with her during the 2020 campaign and then in the historically effective Biden-Harris administration. I will do all that I can to help her win this election to lead America forward as our next President.”

Sen. Elizabeth Warren also issued a statement in support of Harris.

“I endorse Kamala Harris for President,” Warren said in her statement. “She is a proven fighter who has been a national leader in safeguarding consumers and protecting access to abortion. As a former prosecutor, she can press a forceful case against allowing Donald Trump to regain the White House. We have many talented people in our party, but Vice President Harris is the person who was chosen by the voters to succeed Joe Biden if needed. She can unite our party, take on Donald Trump, and win in November.”

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy also joined the endorsements, posting on X, “@KamalaHarris has been an outstanding VP and has what it takes to be an even better President.

“She’s a former prosecutor who will draw a sharp contrast against Trump. She has my full support as our presidential nominee and I urge all Democrats to unite behind her candidacy.”

Several Abstain From Endorsing Harris

Despite the wave of support from some Democratic figures, others did not immediately endorse Harris on Sunday.

Former President Barack Obama did not mention Harris in his statement on Biden’s exit. Instead, he focused on his experience in the White House with Biden as his vice president: “Sixteen years ago, when I began my search for a vice president, I knew about Joe’s remarkable career in public service. But what I came to admire even more was his character  —  his deep empathy and hard-earned resilience; his fundamental decency and belief that everyone counts,” Obama said in a statement.

Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.Y., also did not mention Harris in his statement on Biden’s exit.

“I cannot overstate the gravity of the noble and history-making decision that President Biden just made. The feeling that I have right now is one of profound gratitude,” Booker said.

Texas Rep. Lloyd Doggett, who was the first House Democrat to call on Biden to step aside in the presidential race, back on July 2, applauded Biden’s decision but put the breaks on endorsing Harris.

“Once again President Biden comes through for America, putting country over ego in a way that Donald Trump never could,” Doggett said, in part.

He added, “While, with President Biden’s endorsement, Vice President Harris is clearly the leading candidate, we should be open to all talented individuals who wish to be considered.”

Some Donors Express Excitement

Some Democratic donors who previously planned to withhold their campaign contributions told ABC News on Sunday that they are now excited to coalesce their support around Vice President Harris, even if she was not their first pick to replace Joe Biden at the top of the ticket

“I don’t think that having some kind of bitter inner party fight over the nomination is going to help. If Biden is endorsing Harris, then I think that basically decides it,” said one donor who initially pledged to contribute more than $1.8 million to Biden before withholding their contribution over concerns about Biden’s viability as the nominee.

Reacting to Biden’s decision to drop out of the race and endorse Harris, that same donor said they now plan to resume their pledged contribution to Harris.

“I just texted Rufus Gifford,” the donor said, referring to the Biden-Harris campaign finance chair. “I told him I’m all in.”

Another donor — who originally said that she planned to withhold her contribution and preferred an open convention — told ABC News that she now fully supports Harris following Biden’s withdrawal and endorsement.

“I am convinced that 100% of us will get behind her,” said the donor, who previously held a fundraiser for Biden in her home. “Some people are getting their funds transfer information organized as we speak.”

Some of the donors who spoke with ABC News were not enthusiastic about Harris compared to other Democratic politicians — including California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer — but described Harris as the inevitable nominee.

“I can’t see how any other serious candidate could come out at this point and say, I’m running for the nomination against Harris,” another Democratic donor said.

President Biden Drops Out of 2024 Race; Endorses VP Kamala Harris

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Birmingham Times
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After announcing his decision to not seek re-election, President Joe Biden said he plans to fulfill his duties as President for the remainder of his 2020-2024 term. (Associated Press)

BY  COLLEEN LONG, ZEKE MILLER AND DARLENE SUPERVILLE

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Birmingham Mayor Names Accounting Veteran as Chief Financial Officer

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Birmingham Times
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Mayor Randall L. Woodfin has named Diana L. Bolden as Chief Financial Officer in the City of Birmingham’s Department of Finance. (Adobe Stock)

City of Birmingham

Diana L. Bolden

Mayor Randall L. Woodfin has named Diana L. Bolden, a 26-year accounting professional, as Chief Financial Officer in the City of Birmingham’s Department of Finance. Bolden, who has served the city for a decade, moves into the role upon the retirement of Kevin Moore.

After years of experience in the healthcare and energy sectors, Bolden joined the city in 2014. She has served in various roles including principal accountant, manager of budget management and deputy director of the department. She recently moved into the role of Acting Chief Financial Officer. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Talladega College and Master of Business Administration from Virginia College. She is a member of Government Finance Officers Association and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

As Chief Financial Officer, Bolden’s duties include oversight of budget preparation and administration, grants administration, investments, insurance and risk management, accounting, auditing; and the collection of taxes, licenses and other revenues.

UAB Offers Tips to Shop on a Budget When Going Back to School This Fall

By
Birmingham Times
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Tax-free weekends, like the one in Alabama this weekend, serve shoppers who want to save money on school supplies and other school-related purchases. (UAB)

Back-to-school season is right around the corner, and it is a time when many parents are left scrambling to buy classroom supplies and an updated wardrobe for a growing kid along with paying registration and sports fees.

University of Alabama at Birmingham Regions Institute for Financial Education Director Stephanie Yates, Ph.D., provides insight into how parents can use budgeting to plan and save on back-to-school items this fall, along with tools that can help school groups raise funds.

YatesStephanie Yates, Ph.D. (UAB)

According to Yates, an associate professor of finance in UAB’s Collat School of Business, back-to-school shopping can be burdensome for many families who do not have the funds to spend a lot of money at one time.

“That’s why budgeting is key to shopping smart and saving as much as possible,” Yates said. “Families who prepare and are knowledgeable about sales and different offers out there really benefit from the budget processing.”

For example, she said, “A big mistake parents make is to look at this shopping event as strictly back-to-school and not as the entire school year. Your family will likely run out of school supplies before the year is over, and this may be the only time of year they are on sale, so you should stock up now if you can.”

Yates offers tips to stay within a back-to-school budget:

  • Create an estimated cost list. Look at your student’s school supplies list, estimate the total costs of basic purchases, and set aside funds for your shopping trip. Determine how many of each item your student will need so that you do not end up overbuying items and stocking up on supplies that will never get used.
  • Know all your options. Not every deal is found at a big box store. Thrift stores are priced low, and many offer additional discounts. Auction websites are another platform that often offers lower prices on new and used items. If your child wears a uniform, check with your school to see if they re-sell previously worn uniforms.
  • Look online first. Shopping online can be convenient for the busy parent or college student who does not want to make a few extra trips to the store, and it is a great way to compare prices and find coupon codes. Consider the cost of shipping and taxes when making higher-priced purchases. Also check the return policy in case you do not really need something or end up having to buy a different style, brand or item. Look for the option of buying online and picking up at your local store to avoid shipping fees.
  • Shop with a gift card. A major benefit to using a gift card is that it can be used online and in the store. Perhaps even more important is that it forces you to stick to a set budget based on the allotted dollar figure on the card.
  • Watch for sales. Many retailers are offering 48-hour sales in conjunction with tax-free weekend, which potentially increases savings.
  • Coupons are good online and in-store. When adding coupons on top of sale prices and tax-free discounts, there are great deals to be had. Websites like Retail Me Not are great for finding coupon codes. Keep an eye on mailers and newspaper circulars for in-store savings.

Shop for supplies during tax-free weekends. 

Tax-free weekends serve shoppers who want to save money on school supplies and other school-related purchases. You could save up to 7 percent on your entire purchase by planning your school supplies shopping trip during a tax holiday. There are also tax breaks on clothing and electronics. Find out more about Alabama’s guidelines on the Alabama Department of Revenue’s website.

With many schools’ enforcing uniform policies, it is important to know these policies and what is in your child’s closet. Yates suggests buying a few basic clothing items in case there is a sudden change in policy and your child does not have to wear uniforms anymore.

Beyond school supplies, school organizations and groups ask for donations and funds to support extracurricular activities. Yates recommends getting creative with how these funds are raised.

  • Connect with retailers and restaurants that donate a percentage of sales back to organizations. Some apps do the work. All consumers have to do is submit receipts.
  • Get creative with fundraising. What talents does the group possess? How can this be used to leverage fundraising? For example, an athletic group could conduct a camp for younger children. A choral group could seek out paid opportunities to perform. An art group could sell their creations to raise money.
  • Research grants and funding available from the government to support your organization. There may be scholarships or government funds available for groups that go unused each year.
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