Home Blog Page 27

He Was Shaking and Talking so Fast … But Said ‘Will You Marry Me’”

By
Birmingham Times
-
0

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

VERONICA AND JOSEPH OWENS lll

Live: McCalla

Married: July 4, 2020

Met: Aug. 17, 2013, at a basketball tournament at New Hope Baptist Church in Birmingham. Veronica was there to support her cousin who was playing against Joseph’s team.

Veronica said she wasn’t paying Joseph any attention, but she had surely caught his. “I was the youth pastor at New Hope, and I knew I had never seen her before… and it was a tournament, so between games, I went up in the stands and started talking to her,” Joseph said. “I just made small talk and found out she was there to watch her cousin play, and started talking smack,” he laughed. “I felt some kind of way she was rooting for the losers.”

Joseph has a competitive spirit, “he was talking mess from the sidelines and he would look my way, and one time he winked, and I smiled and just looked away,” Veronica said. “And when I saw him coming towards me, I was like ‘oh my god, what does he want?’”

“Well, I noticed she smiled back, so I had to go talk to her. And she was taking too long to ask me for my number, so I asked her for hers because I didn’t want her to miss her blessing,” Joseph laughed. “He almost didn’t get my number because I didn’t pass out my number like that. I only gave it to him because he made me laugh,” said Veronica.

Although they’d made a connection, they didn’t get far right away because Veronica moved to Montgomery in 2013 and when she moved back to Birmingham in 2014 they were both in and out of relationships for a few years. It wasn’t until 2018 that timing would be right.

First date: Spring 2018, at Purple Onion on Green Springs Highway. “I couldn’t start her too off high, I couldn’t take her to Perry’s right away because I had to leave room to build,” Joseph laughed.

“And he almost didn’t get the chance to take me to Purple Onion because I still wasn’t sure I wanted to talk to him like that,” Veronica added. “But he was sweet, and he was still funny. He knew how to make me laugh without trying.”

“I remember the bacon cheeseburger was fire,” Joseph said. “But I knew we had always been feeling each other but it was always bad timing … so when we finally got to the date it was surreal because we were finally sitting there in front of each other and not just flirting at church. The conversation was always good because we’re both church kids, and love God. It was effortless, it just flowed.”

Veronica and Joseph Owens III met in 2013 at New Hope Baptist Church in Birmingham. The couple began dating in 2018 and married in 2020. (Provided Photos)

The turn: June 2018, at Joseph’s place in Hueytown. He had planned a romantic gesture to seal the deal.

“He had flowers and candles everywhere. He made a big heart out of candles, and rose petals surrounding it, and he said, ‘step into the heart if you will be mine,’” Veronica said.

“No I didn’t, I’m old school. I said, ‘will you go with me?’,” Joseph laughed.

“He had a whole little speech, and he said if you accept, step into the heart, and I did,” Veronica clarified.

The proposal: Dec. 7, 2019, at New Hope Baptist Church in the very spot they met: the gymnasium. Joseph had planned to propose the day before his pastoral installation at Mount Ararat Baptist Church in Birmingham.

“I had reached out to some of her family and friends, and had some of my friends and family come. Some of my friends decorated the gym at New Hope Baptist Church for me, and I had Veronica’s friend Mercedes bring her there and she thought they were coming to help me set up for my installation the next day,” Joseph said. “Veronica had a little Yorkie (named August), and I [incorporated] him into the proposal because I bought the dog for her … We had the gym lights dimmed, and I had her favorite Isley Brother’s song ‘Drifting on A Memory’ playing, and when Veronica walked into the gym, she didn’t know what was going on. I followed through with [my speech] and highlighted our history. I said, ‘this is our day one location, this is where we began’ and asked her if she would marry me.”

“He was so nervous, it was written all over his face. He was shaking and talking so fast, I couldn’t understand nothing, he said but ‘will you marry me’,” Veronica laughed. “One of my brothers had my daddy on FaceTime, and my daddy was yelling ‘What is he saying?’ I was a little nervous as well,” she admitted. “I was thinking ‘oh my gosh, this is happening’. When I first walked into the gym and saw all my family and friends [who were visiting because of Joseph’s installation the next day] I started to understand what was happening and I couldn’t stop smiling, and I said ‘yes’.”

The wedding: Originally, the couple had planned to have the wedding in Veronica’s hometown of Los Angeles, California, but since the country was in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, they opted for a small intimate wedding at their church, Mount Ararat Baptist Church, in Birmingham, officiated by their pastor, Gregory L. Clarke, of New Hope Baptist Church. Their colors were white and royal blue, and the bride recalls being an hour late to her own wedding because she had locked her car keys in the trunk of her car, “and I remember asking my mama if this was a bad sign,” Veronica laughed.

Most memorable for the bride was “when my dad was walking me down the aisle, and I just remember Joe staring at me and smiling and it just made me melt,” Veronica said.

Most memorable for the groom was finally feeling at ease after the hour delay. “I was a little frustrated because she was late, and I had to work some magic to get her there. But it was worth it when I saw her come out looking so beautiful and elegant. She looked like a queen and I melted too when I saw her coming down the aisle,” Joseph said.

“And since it was the fourth of July, and we had an evening wedding, when we stepped out the church there were fireworks in the air and that was so beautiful,” Veronica said. “It definitely put the cap on the day,” Joseph added.

Words of wisdom: “While learning each other, try not to lose yourself and your passion for things – selfcare, hobbies, interests. Especially with ministry, you sacrifice a lot for ministry … But it’s very important to take care of yourself and remember who you are.” Veronica said. “And, a lot of people say communication is key, but I think comprehension is. A lot of time, we have our own definition of words and we may think the other person knows what we’re trying to say, but having a discussion explaining your thoughts and where you are mentally is really important.”

“I have learned that marriage is about dying [to self]. Death always takes place at the altar, whether it’s a wedding or a funeral because the I’s become ‘we’, and a lot of people never make to the marriage because they stay stuck at the wedding,” Joseph said. “People need to understand that after that 20-minute celebration [the wedding] comes 20 years of challenges, and sometimes chaos … flaws and all, the good, bad, and ugly. Marriage is not just recreation, it’s also responsibility … “

Happily ever after: The Owens’ pastor Mount Ararat Baptist Church, in Birmingham, and Veronica serves in the music ministry. They have one daughter, Siara ‘Sisi’, two years old.

Veronica, 35, is Los Angeles native, and King Drew Magnet High School of Medicine Science grad. Veronica relocated from L.A. to Birmingham in August 2013, and attended Shelton State Community College, in Tuscaloosa where she earned an associate’s degree in nursing. Veronica works as a registered nurse at the V.A. Hospital in Birmingham.

Joseph, 43, is a Bessemer native, and Jess Lanier High School grad. He attended Birmingham Easonian Bible College, where he studied ministry. Joseph works as a teacher at McAdory Elementary School and as the Sr. Pastor of Mount Ararat Baptist Church, in Birmingham.

“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

Jefferson County Announced More than $400 Million in Economic Development Projects in 2025

By
Birmingham Times
-
0
Alabama Farm Center’s (tourism) $150 million investment in Warrior. (Provided)

By Barnett Wright | The Birmingham Times

Jefferson County announced preliminary estimates that show more than $400 million in economic development projects during 2025 including nearly 900 jobs and an average hourly wage of $30.60, according to figures provided by Jeff Traywick, economic development advisor for the Jefferson County Commission.

The projects, worth $401,492,499 and 886 jobs, were in a variety of industry sectors that included manufacturing, automotive, logistics, IT and health care and led by the Alabama Farm Center’s (tourism) $150 million investment in Warrior; CMC Steel’s (manufacturing) $135 million expansion in Birmingham and ITU AbsorbTech’s new planned facility in McCalla ($24.5 million).

The average worker in Jefferson County, Alabama, earned annual wages of $71,647 as of Q2 2025, and average annual wages per worker increased 5.4% in the region over the preceding four quarters. For comparison purposes, annual average wages were $75,686 in the nation as of Q2 2025. (Jefferson County)

Traywick said 2025 has been “an incredible year” for Jefferson County in terms of economic development activity.  “Every single economic sector has seen significant activity and wages have been seeing significant increases on average,” he said. “As we wrap up the year with the announcement of Jefferson County’s partnership with KultureCity in their planned $60 million development in downtown, we are moving forward with several significant projects.”

Those projects which could be announced in early 2026 “will add hundreds of millions in investment into the county along with the creation of hundreds of new job opportunities for our citizens,” Traywick said. “Additionally, we are looking at ways to better address the needs of small business and to address barriers to workforce that are keeping thousands sidelined at a time in which we are seeing significant job and wage growth and demand for quality workers.”

The county’s advisor said Amsterdam-based Nebius Group purchased property in Birmingham late last year for $90 million “and it is likely that this project could see an estimated investment of more than several billion over the first three years if the project moves forward,” according to estimates.

Amsterdam-based Nebius Group purchased property in Birmingham late last year for $90 million. (Provided)

Nebius is a NVIDIA Cloud Partner and in September of this year entered into an infrastructure agreement with Microsoft worth at least $17.4 billion.  Using estimates on the capital spend, Traywick said “this could potentially have an annual impact of more than $25 million for Birmingham City Schools and more than $10 million for Jefferson County Schools.”

The average worker in Jefferson County earned annual wages of $71,647 as of the second quarter of 2025, and average annual wages per worker increased 5.4 percent in the region over the preceding four quarters. For comparison purposes, annual average wages were $75,686 in the nation as of Q2 2025, Traywick said. One of the higher-growth sectors, in terms of wage growth, has come from manufacturing which has seen annual average wages grow by more than $20,000 since 2020.

Physicians Slam Move by U.S. to Cut the Number of Vaccines Recommended for Every Child

By
Birmingham Times
-
0
The U.S. has cut the number of vaccines it recommends for every child. (File)

BY ALI SWENSON and LAURAN NEERGAARD | Associated Press

WASHINGTON — The U.S. took the unprecedented step Monday of cutting the number of vaccines it recommends for every child — a move that leading medical groups said would undermine protections against a half-dozen diseases.

The change is effective immediately, meaning that the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will now recommend that all children get vaccinated against 11 diseases. What’s no longer broadly recommended is protection against flu, rotavirus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, some forms of meningitis or RSV. Instead, protections against those diseases are only recommended for certain groups deemed high risk, or when doctors recommend them in what’s called “shared decision-making.”

Trump administration officials said the overhaul, a move long sought by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., won’t result in families who want the vaccines losing access to them, and said insurance will continue to pay. But medical experts said the decision creates confusion for parents and could increase preventable diseases.

States, not the federal government, have the authority to require vaccinations for schoolchildren. While CDC requirements often influence those state regulations, some states have begun creating their own alliances to counter the Trump administration’s guidance on vaccines.

The change comes as U.S. vaccination rates have been slipping and the share of children with exemptions has reached an all-time high, according to federal data. At the same time, rates of diseases that can be protected against with vaccines, such as measles and whooping cough, are rising across the country.

Review came at the request of President Trump

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said the overhaul was in response to a request from President Donald Trump in December. Trump asked the agency to review how peer nations approach vaccine recommendations and consider revising U.S. guidance accordingly.

HHS said its comparison to 20 peer nations found that the U.S. was an “outlier” in both the number of vaccinations and the number of doses it recommended to all children. Officials with the agency framed the change as a way to increase public trust by recommending only the most important vaccinations for children to receive.

“This decision protects children, respects families, and rebuilds trust in public health,” Kennedy said in a statement Monday.

Trump, reacting to the news on his Truth Social platform, said the new schedule is “far more reasonable” and “finally aligns the United States with other Developed Nations around the World.”

Among those left on the recommended-for-everyone list are vaccines against measles, whooping cough, polio, tetanus, chickenpox and human papillomavirus, or HPV. The guidance reduces the number of recommended vaccine doses against HPV from two or three shots depending on age to one for most children.

Medical experts said Monday’s changes without what they said was public discussion or a transparent review of the data would put children at risk.

“Abandoning recommendations for vaccines that prevent influenza, hepatitis and rotavirus, and changing the recommendation for HPV without a public process to weigh the risks and benefits, will lead to more hospitalizations and preventable deaths among American children,” said Michael Osterholm of the Vaccine Integrity Project, based at the University of Minnesota.

Dr. Sean O’Leary of the American Academy of Pediatrics said countries carefully consider vaccine recommendations based on levels of disease in their populations and their health systems.

“You can’t just copy and paste public health and that’s what they seem to be doing here,” said O’Leary. “Literally children’s health and children’s lives are at stake.”

Most high-income countries recommend vaccinations against a dozen to 15 serious pathogens, according to a recent review by the Vaccine Integrity Project, a group that works to safeguard vaccine use.

France today recommends all children get vaccinated against 14 diseases, compared to the 11 that the U.S. now will recommend for every child under the new schedule.

Doctors’ groups criticize decision

The changes were made by political appointees, without any evidence that the current recommendations were harming children, O’Leary said.

The pediatricians’ group has issued its own childhood vaccine schedule that its members are following, and it continues to broadly recommend vaccines that the Trump administration demoted.

O’Leary singled out the flu vaccine, which the government and leading medical experts have long urged for nearly everyone starting at age 6 months. He said the government is “pretty tone deaf” for ending its recommendation while the country is at the beginning of a severe flu season, and after 280 children died from flu last winter, the most since 2009.

Even a disease that parents may not have heard of, rotavirus, could come roaring back if vaccination erodes, he added. That diarrheal disease once hospitalized thousands of children each winter, something that no longer happens.

The decision was made without input from an advisory committee that typically consults on the vaccine schedule, said senior officials at HHS. The officials spoke on the condition of anonymity because they weren’t authorized to discuss the changes publicly.

The officials added that the new recommendations were a collaborative effort between federal health agencies but wouldn’t specify who was consulted.

Scientists at the CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases were asked to present to the agency’s political leadership about vaccine schedules in other countries in December, but they were not allowed to give any recommendations and were not aware of any decisions about vaccine schedule changes, said Abby Tighe, executive director of the National Public Health Coalition, an advocacy organization of current and former CDC employees and their supporters.

“Changes of this magnitude require careful review, expert and public input, and clear scientific justification. That level of rigor and transparency was not part of this decision,” said Dr. Sandra Fryhofer, of the American Medical Association. “The scientific evidence remains unchanged, and the AMA supports continued access to childhood immunizations recommended by national medical specialty societies.”

Kennedy is a longtime vaccine skeptic

The move comes as Kennedy, a longtime activist against vaccines, has repeatedly used his authority in government to translate his skepticism about the shots into national guidance.

In May, Kennedy announced the CDC would no longer recommend COVID-19 vaccines for healthy children and pregnant women — a move immediately questioned by public health experts who saw no new data to justify the change.

In June, Kennedy fired an entire 17-member CDC vaccine advisory committee — later installing several of his own replacements, including multiple vaccine skeptics.

Kennedy in November also personally directed the CDC to abandon its position that vaccines do not cause autism, without supplying any new evidence to support the change.

Swenson reported from New York. Associated Press writer Mike Stobbe contributed to this report. The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

 

December 25, 2025

By
Birmingham Times
-
0
By multiple measures, the Birmingham area has seen dramatic declines in unemployment since the pandemic. (Adobe Stock)

____________________________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MERCHANDISE

 

 

 

____________________________

 

 

 

_____________________________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EMPLOYMENT

 

 

 

____________________________

 

Sales Account Manager

 

 

 

Develop pricing, products, and marketing strategies. 24 months of experience in overseas sales positions is required. 40 hrs./wk. Send resume to HS Hyosung USA, Inc. at 500 19th Avenue SE, Decatur, Alabama 35601

 

 

 

BT12/23/2025

 

______________________________

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LEGAL

 

 

 

______________________________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASE NO. CV-2025-904676.00

 

 

 

NOTICE OF FINAL HEARING BY PUBLICATION

 

TO: TAMMY INGRAM; JOHN O. MORRISON, II; UNKNOWN HEIRS OF HENRY O. MORRISON; UNKNOWN HEIRS OF NELLIE F. MORRISON; J.T. SMALLWOOD, JEFFERSON COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR; JEFFERSON COUNTY, ALABAMA; CITY OF BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA; and any and all other unknown heirs, claimants or interested parties claiming any right, title, estate, lien, or interest in the real estate described herein,

 

TAKE NOTICE that on October 28, 2025, the Birmingham Land Bank Authority filed the above-styled Complaint, and the Land Bank asserts that it has recorded notice of a pending quiet title and foreclosure action in the Probate Court of Jefferson County, Alabama concerning the rights and/or interests in the following real property:

 

 

 

Property Address: 724 84th Place South, Birmingham, Alabama 35206

 

 

 

Tax Parcel ID No.: 01-23-00-11-4-005-001.000

 

 

 

Legal Description: Lot 22, in Block 169, according to the Survey of Second Addition to South Highlands of East Lake, as recorded in Map Book 8, Page 76, in the Probate Office of Jefferson County, Alabama, situated in Jefferson County, Alabama (It appears said legal is the same as that certain legal described in Instrument No. 2023078101 as follows: LOT 22 BLK 169 SO HGLDS OF EAST LAKE 2ND ADD)

 

 

 

ANY PERSON WITH A PROPERTY INTEREST IN THE ABOVE PROPERTY IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THEY MAY LOSE SUCH INTEREST, IF ANY, AS A RESULT OF THE ABOVE-REFERENCED QUIET TITLE AND FORECLOSURE ACTION. The final hearing on this quiet title and foreclosure action is hereby set for February 26, 2026, in Room 340, Jefferson County Courthouse in Birmingham, Alabama at 9:00 A.M. The judgment of the Court may result in title to the property vesting in the Birmingham Land Bank Authority. Any person who proves to the Court’s satisfaction a right to redeem the property pursuant to Alabama Code §§ 40-10-73 (1975) et seq. or Alabama Code §§ 40-10-83 (1975) et seq. may redeem the property pursuant to those statutes within five (5) days after the appropriate Order on Final Hearing is issued. FAILURE TO REDEEM THE PROPERTY AND PRESENT PROOF OF REDEMPTION TO THE CIRCUIT COURT WITHIN THE 5-DAY PERIOD MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION.

 

 

 

The address of the Birmingham Land Bank Authority is City Hall, 710 North 20th St., Birmingham, AL 35203. The Birmingham Land Bank Authority may be contacted care of Cherokee W. Wooley, Law Offices of Thomas J. Skinner, IV, LLC, at (205) 802-2545.

 

 

 

IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED by the undersigned Clerk of Court that publication of this notice be made once a week for three consecutive weeks in the Birmingham Times, a newspaper of general circulation in Jefferson County, Alabama, and that all persons to whom this notice is addressed and any and all persons claiming any title to, interest in, or lien or encumbrance on the above-described land or any part thereof are hereby directed to plead, answer or otherwise respond to the Complaint in this cause before the hearing date or a judgment by default may be rendered against them it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint.

 

 

 

BT12/23/2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

 

 

 

 

 

CASE NO. CV-2025-904893.00

 

 

 

NOTICE OF FINAL HEARING BY PUBLICATION

 

TO: LEE E. LODER; JUANITA R. LODER; RESIDENTIAL FUNDING CORPORATION; REGIONS MORTGAGE, INC., as successor by merger to REAL ESTATE FINANCING, INC.; BALTIMORE FEDERAL SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION; HEALTHCARE COST CONTAINMENT UNITED ASSOCIATION, INC., as successor to HEALTH CREDIT UNION; J.T. SMALLWOOD, JEFFERSON COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR; JEFFERSON COUNTY, ALABAMA; CITY OF BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA; and any and all other unknown heirs, claimants or interested parties claiming any right, title, estate, lien, or interest in the real estate described herein,

 

TAKE NOTICE that on November 20, 2025, the Birmingham Land Bank Authority filed the above-styled Complaint, and the Land Bank asserts that it has recorded notice of a pending quiet title and foreclosure action in the Probate Court of Jefferson County, Alabama concerning the rights and/or interests in the following real property:

 

 

 

Property Address: 1404 23rd Street North, Birmingham, Alabama 35234

 

 

 

Tax Parcel ID No.: 01-22-00-25-2-030-021.000

 

 

 

Legal Description: Lot 26, Block 1, according to Sudduth Realty Company’s Resurvey of Block 667 Birmingham as recorded in Map Book 13 Page 63 in the Probate Office of Jefferson County, Alabama, situated in Jefferson County, Alabama (It appears said legal is the same as that certain legal described in Instrument No. 2019111470 as follows: LOT 26 BLK 1 SUDDUTH RLTY CO SUB OF BLK 667 BHM)

 

 

 

ANY PERSON WITH A PROPERTY INTEREST IN THE ABOVE PROPERTY IS HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THEY MAY LOSE SUCH INTEREST, IF ANY, AS A RESULT OF THE ABOVE-REFERENCED QUIET TITLE AND FORECLOSURE ACTION. The final hearing on this quiet title and foreclosure action is hereby set for February 26, 2026, in Room 340, Jefferson County Courthouse in Birmingham, Alabama at 9:00 A.M. The judgment of the Court may result in title to the property vesting in the Birmingham Land Bank Authority. Any person who proves to the Court’s satisfaction a right to redeem the property pursuant to Alabama Code §§ 40-10-73 (1975) et seq. or Alabama Code §§ 40-10-83 (1975) et seq. may redeem the property pursuant to those statutes within five (5) days after the appropriate Order on Final Hearing is issued. FAILURE TO REDEEM THE PROPERTY AND PRESENT PROOF OF REDEMPTION TO THE CIRCUIT COURT WITHIN THE 5-DAY PERIOD MAY RESULT IN A LOSS OF THE RIGHT OF REDEMPTION.

 

 

 

The address of the Birmingham Land Bank Authority is City Hall, 710 North 20th St., Birmingham, AL 35203. The Birmingham Land Bank Authority may be contacted care of Cherokee W. Wooley, Law Offices of Thomas J. Skinner, IV, LLC, at (205) 802-2545.

 

 

 

IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED by the undersigned Clerk of Court that publication of this notice be made once a week for three consecutive weeks in the Birmingham Times, a newspaper of general circulation in Jefferson County, Alabama, and that all persons to whom this notice is addressed and any and all persons claiming any title to, interest in, or lien or encumbrance on the above-described land or any part thereof are hereby directed to plead, answer or otherwise respond to the Complaint in this cause before the hearing date or a judgment by default may be rendered against them it being intended that this notice shall be used to perfect service against all parties who cannot be personally served with a copy of the Complaint.

 

 

 

 

 

BT12/23/2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

 

 

 

 

 

NOTICE OF COMPLETION

 

In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama, 1975, notice is hereby given that Syms Contractors Inc. has completed the contract for construction  of the Whatley Health Services Covid Storage Building 2371 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd Tuscaloosa Al, 35401 , the Owner(s), and has made a request for final settlement of said contract.

 

All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify:

 

Studio S2H DESIGN
1721 4TH AVE NORTH
BIRMINGHAM, AL 35203

 

 

 

BT12/23/2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

 

 

 

 

 

NOTICE OF COMPLETION

 

 

 

In accordance with Chapter 1, Title 39, Code of Alabama. 1975, as amended, notice is hereby given that SHELBY COMPANY, LLC contractor, has completed the Contract for Renovation UAB WALLACE TUMOR BASEMENT PET CT & UPTAKE ADDITION at 1824 SIXTH AVENUE SOUTH BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233 for the State of Alabama and the County, City of BIRMINGHAM Owner(s), and have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify BIRCHFIELD PENUEL ARCHITECTS 2805 CRESCENT AVE. BIRMINGHAM, AL 35209.

 

 

 

SHELBY COMPANY LLC

 

3120 4TH AVE SOUTH

 

BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233

 

 

 

BT12/23/2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

 

 

 

ADVERTISEMENT FOR COMPLETION

 

 

 

LEGAL NOTICE

 

 

 

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

 

that Williford Orman Construction LLC Contractor, has completed the Contract for Construction of Gymnasium Addition and Renovation to Locust Fork High School Package A: Administration Area Lobby and D Blount County for the State of Alabama and the Blount County Owner(s), and have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify Lathan Associates Architects

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Williford Orman Construction LLC

 

(Contractor)

 

 

 

 

 

______PO Box 1985, Pelham, AL 35124

 

(Business Address)

 

 

 

 

 

BT12/23/2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

 

 

 

ADVERTISEMENT FOR COMPLETION

 

 

 

LEGAL NOTICE

 

 

 

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

 

that Williford Orman Construction LLC , Contractor, has completed the Contract for Construction of Addition and Renovation to Career Technical Education Center at Columbiana for the State of Alabama and the (County) of Shelby, Owner(s), and have made request for final settlement of said Contract. All persons having any claim for labor, materials, or otherwise in connection with this project should immediately notify Lathan Associates Architects PC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Williford Orman Construction LLC

 

(Contractor)

 

 

 

 

 

______PO Box 1985, Pelham, AL 35124

 

(Business Address)

 

 

 

 

 

BT12/23/2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IN THE JUVENILE COURT OF MONROE COUNTY, GEORGIA

 

 

 

IN THE INTEREST OF:

 

 

 

  1. D. JR , SEX M , AGE 1, DOB 07/2023, CASE #2025-JV-JR-0040

 

 

 

CHILD UNDER 18 YEARS OF AGE

 

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, BLAKE HIGGINBOTHAM, ANY UNKNOWN PUTATIVE FATHERS; AND ANYONE CLAIMING A PARENTAL INTEREST IN THE ABOVE CHILD BORN TO MCKAYLA STORY

 

You are notified that a Petition for Finding of Dependency with Guardianship Placed with Maternal Grandparents was filed against you in said court on 4/10/25, an Order for Service by Publication was entered on December 1, 2025.

 

YOU ARE COMMANDED AND REQUIRED TO BE AND APPEAR before Monroe County Juvenile Court, being held at Monroe County Justice Center, Forsyth, Georgia on 02/12/26 at 8:30 o’clock a.m., for a hearing following service by publication being held at the Monroe County Justice Center in Forsyth, Georgia. Serve an answer on Petitioner’s Attorney, James E. Patterson, P. O. Box 1006, Forsyth, Georgia 31029.You may obtain a copy of the petition by contacting Monroe County Juvenile Court Clerk.

 

WITNESS the Honorable Judges of this court, this 1st day of December, 2025.

 

 

 

 

 

CLERK, MONROE COUNTY COURT

 

 

 

BT12/23/2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

 

 

 

STATE OF ALABAMA

 

DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES

 

STATE LANDS DIVISION

 

 

 

INVITATION FOR BIDS FOR TIMBER SALE

 

ON CERTAIN STATE LANDS IN

 

JEFFERSON COUNTY, ALABAMA

 

 

 

LOCATION OF TIMBER SUBJECT OF THIS NOTICE:

 

 

 

The “Turkey Creek Nature Preserve” sale more specifically described as follows:

 

 

 

Jefferson County, Alabama, Township 15 South, Range 2 West; portions of Section 26, containing 81 acres more or less to be thinned and 38 acres more or less to be clearcut (“Sale Area”).

 

 

 

VOLUMES OF TIMBER: The estimated product class timber volumes are as follows:

 

 

 

Pine Pulpwood 4,006 TONS

 

 

 

Pine Chip-N-Saw 961 TONS

 

 

 

Pine Sawtimber 791 TONS

 

 

 

Hardwood Pulpwood 772 TONS

 

 

 

Misc. Hardwood Sawtimber 77 TONS

 

 

 

Volumes are not guaranteed, and all bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of estimated quantity. The timber to be cut is a portion of all planted pine timber greater than four (4) inches DBH except for the specified leave tree basal area within the Sale Area. The residual leave tree basal area is to be 60 sq. ft. per acre in all first thinning plantations. The timber to be left within the Sale Area should consist of undamaged dominant and co-dominant classes resulting in a healthy and well distributed stand. In first thinning plantations, every third row (or equivalent, if the rows are not easily discernible) is to be removed for harvest access. As many diseased, forked, deformed, broken or undesirable trees as possible should be removed from the stand while maintaining acceptable leave tree basal area. In the clearcut area, all merchantable timber is to be cut. Specific instructions as to timber to cut is detailed in the COMPLETE INVITATION FOR BIDS FOR TIMBER SALE. (See below).

 

 

 

BID AMOUNT/DEPOSIT: Each bid must state the per unit bid for each of the products listed above to be produced pursuant to a contract authorizing the cutting and removal of timber until April 30, 2027. Bids must be accompanied by a CERTIFIED or CASHIER’S CHECK, made payable to State Lands Division, representing a bid deposit in the amount of $10,000.00. The successful bidder must execute and return the contract to the DCNR within ten days of receipt; otherwise, the award may be deemed to have been withdrawn and the deposit forfeited to the State.

 

 

 

DATE, TIME & LOCATION OF OPENING OF SEALED BIDS: Sealed bids will be received by Commissioner of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources until WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2026 at 2:00 P.M.. Each bid must be submitted in a separate envelope clearly marked on the outside “SEALED BID FOR TIMBER SALE, TURKEY CREEK NATURE PRESERVE – DO NOT OPEN” and submitted to: State Lands Division, 464 Folsom Administrative Building, 64 North Union St., Montgomery, AL 36130-1901. All bids received by this deadline will be publicly opened and read on the following day, Thursday, January 15, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. in the office of the State Lands Division. If ADA accommodations are needed to attend, contact Sandy Harris at (334) 242-3484. Requests should be made at least 7 days prior to opening.

 

 

 

PRIOR TO BID SUBMISSION: Interested parties must review the COMPLETE INVITATION FOR BIDS FOR TIMBER SALE (and Sale Area Map) at https://www.outdooralabama.com/public-notices/timber-sales which details specific requirements related to this Invitation and a resulting contract, if awarded, including, but not limited to, submission of bids, landowner assistance, posting security for performance, and payment of advertisement costs. Potential bidders seeking information as to accessing the tract for purposes of inspecting the timber may contact Shaun Powell at (251) 202-1249. It is the sole responsibility of potential bidders to seek information regarding access sufficiently in advance of the bid opening. The Sale Area Map is available by calling the State Lands Division at (334) 242-3484 or online at https://www.outdooralabama.com/public-notices/timber-sales.

 

 

 

NO BID SHALL BE RECEIVED FOR ANY REASON ANY TIME AFTER THE ADVERTISED DEADLINE.IT SHALL BE THE SOLE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE BIDDER TO ENSURE ACTUAL RECEIPT OF THE BID BY THE STATE LANDS DIVISION PRIOR TO THE ADVERTISED DEADLINE.

 

 

 

ALL RIGHTS ARE HEREBY RESERVED TO REJECT ANY AND ALL BIDS.

 

 

 

 

 

Christopher M. Blankenship, Commissioner

 

Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

 

 

 

 

 

BT12/23/2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

 

ADVERTISEMENT for BIDDER PRE-QUALIFICATION

 

And NOTICE of INTENT to RECEIVE BIDS

 

from PREQUALIFIED BIDDERS

 

 

 

Pre-qualification submittals will be received by the Owner’s Representative/Project Manager, David McCabe on behalf of Office of the Chief Facilities Officer, UAB Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the University of Alabama Board of Trustees at UAB Hospital Planning, 8th Floor Daniel Building, 15 20th Street S., Birmingham, Alabama 35233 until 4:00 PM Central Time, January 06, 2026.The original and two (2) flash drives with duplicates of submittals are required for pre-qualification approval; however, email transmission copies may be transmitted to the UAB Project Manager David McCabe at dcmccabe@uabmc.edu and cc’d to sheywood@ghafari.com and mfreeman@ghafari.com to expedite the review process with a hard-copy of the submittal and two flash drives to be delivered within 24 hours.

 

 

 

UAB Spain Wallace

 

Fire Pump Controller

 

University of Alabama at Birmingham

 

Birmingham, Alabama

 

Project No.:H255014

 

 

 

  1. SCOPE OF WORK:

 

 

 

The project consists of a replacement of the fire pump controller in the basement of the UAB Spain Wallace facility. The scope of work includes electrical demolition and new work, as well as associated architectural and mechanical modifications as required to facilitate the equipment replacement. The construction budget is anticipated to be between $250,000 and $350,000

 

 

 

The work will be performed under a single Prime General Contractor who will coordinate the work of this project. Particular and specific care will be required to coordinate complex shutdowns, limit disturbances, and follow strict Infection Controls and Interim Life Safety Measures (ICRA/ILSM) requirements for the protection of patients, family, and staff. The Prime General Contractors seeking to be pre-qualified will require experience with similar size and type hospital projects performed in and adjacent to an operating hospital environment and with the implementation and maintenance of infection control measures, interim life safety measures, coordinating shutdowns, and maintaining a clean and organized job site in an operating hospital. The General Contractor must have experience with representative projects as a General Contractor (not as a Construction Manager, Program Manager, etc.)

 

 

 

 

 

  1. PRIME GENERAL CONTRACTOR BIDDER PRE-QUALIFICATIONS:

 

 

 

Prime General Contractor bidders interested in submitting a proposal must apply for pre-qualification and must be licensed under the Provision of Title 34, Chapter 8, and Code of Alabama, 1975. A copy of current Alabama Contractors license is to be included in pre-qualification submittal.

 

 

 

 

 

Only bidders who have completed the pre-qualification process and that have been approved will be eligible to submit a bid for the Project. Prospective Bidder’s Pre-qualification Package must be received by the Owner’s Project Manager no later than 4:00 PM Central Time, January 06, 2026, after which no further requests will be considered.

 

 

 

Pre-qualification Requirements Information Package may be obtained from the Architect upon letterhead request sent by email or scanned into an email to sheywood@ghafari.com, copy mfreeman@ghafari.com and dcmccabe@uabmc.edu. Any addenda to the pre-qualification requirements will be issued to documented prime contractors only.

 

 

 

The pre-qualification procedure is intended to identify responsible and competent prime contractor bidders relative to the requirements of the Project. Each prospective prime contractor bidder will be notified of the results of the pre-qualification, on or about January 09, 2026.

 

 

 

The Owner reserves the right to waive technical errors in applications, extend or abandon the pre-qualification process, should the interests of the Owner appear to be promoted thereby.

 

 

 

Progress Design and Construction Documents:

 

Prior to the pre-qualification deadline, project progress plans and specifications may be examined at the following location beginning January 09, 2026:

 

 

 

Architect:

 

Ghafari Associates

 

2170 Highland Ave S

 

Suite 220

 

Birmingham, AL 35205

 

Phone:205-203-4611

 

Contact: Scott Heywood

 

Email: sheywood@ghafari.com

 

  1. BIDS BY PRE-QUALIFIED PRIME GENERAL CONTRACTOR BIDDERS

 

 

 

Documents: 

 

Bid documents will be available at the following locations after notice to pre-qualified bidders is given. Drawings and specifications may be examined at; ALGX Digital Plan Room, http://www.algraphics.com, 2801 5th Ave, South, Birmingham, AL 35233: Dodge Data & Analytics, http://www.construction.com, 2860 S State Hwy 161, Ste 160 #501, Grand Prairie, TX  75052-7361; at the AGC Internet Plan Room, 5000 Grantswood Road Suite 100, Irondale, AL 35210; at the Birmingham Construction Industry Authority, http://www.bcia1.org, 601 37th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35222; and at the Construction Market Data, http://www.cmdgroup.com, 30 Technology Pkwy, South, Suite 500, Norcross, GA 30092-2912.

 

 

 

 

 

Bonds:

 

A certified check or bid bond payable to the University of Alabama at Birmingham in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000 must accompany the bidder’s proposal. Performance and Statutory Labor and Material Payment Bonds will be required at the signing of the Contract.

 

 

 

Bids:

 

Bids must be submitted on proposal forms or copies thereof furnished by the Architect. No bid may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids for a period of ninety (90) days. The Owner reserves the right to reject bids if such action is determined to be in the best interest of the Owner. The Owner reserves the right to revoke pre-qualification of any bidder in accordance with Section 39-2-12, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended in 1997 (by Act 97-225). The Bid Date is January 22, 2026 at 2:00 PM Central Time at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, UAB Hospital Planning, 8th Floor Daniel Building, 15 20th Street S., Birmingham, Alabama 35233. Bids shall be clearly identified on the exterior of the package with the bidder’s name, address, State license number, the name of the project being bid, time and place of the bid opening. Sealed bids shall be properly identified.

 

 

 

On the date of the bid opening, bids may be hand delivered or received by Express Service mail to the Office of David McCabe, Project Manager Facilities and Capital Projects, 8th Floor Daniel Building, 15 20th Street S., Birmingham, Alabama 35233, until 12:00 noon. After 12:00 noon of the date of the bid opening, proposals must be hand delivered and presented at the bid opening. Sealed proposals shall be submitted in triplicate and shall be properly identified. All proposals received after 2:00 p.m. on January 22, 2026 (the date and time set for the receipt of bids) will be returned unopened.

 

 

 

Nonresident Prime Contractor Bidders:

 

Under Section 39-3-5, Code of Alabama, 1975, nonresident prime contractor bidders must accompany any written bid documents with a written opinion of an attorney licensed to practice law in such nonresident prime contractor bidder’s state of domicile as to the preferences, if any or none, granted by the law of the state to its own business entities whose principal place of business are in that state in the letting of any or all public contracts. Resident prime contractors in Alabama, as defined in Section 39-2-12, are granted preference over nonresident prime contractors in awarding of contracts in the same manner and to the same extent as provided by the laws of the state of domicile of the nonresident.

 

 

 

Fire Alarm Work:

 

In accordance with Title 34, Chapter 33A (the ACT), of the Code of Alabama 1975, bidders for fire alarm work of this project, if any, must include with their bid evidence of licensure as required by the ACT by including with the bid submittal a valid State Fire Marshal’s permit.

 

 

 

 

 

  1. PRE-BID CONFERENCE

 

A mandatory Pre-Bid Conference is currently scheduled to be held at 1:00 PM CST on January 12, 2026 at UAB Hospital Facilities, 8th Floor Daniel Building, 15 20th Street S., Birmingham, Alabama 35233. It is mandatory that all pre-qualified prime contractor bidders attend the Pre-Bid Conference.

 

 

 

BT12/23/2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

 

 

 

ADVERTISEMENT for BIDDER PRE-QUALIFICATION

 

And NOTICE of INTENT to RECEIVE BIDS

 

from PREQUALIFIED BIDDERS

 

 

 

Pre-qualification submittals will be received by the Owner’s Representative/Project Manager, David McCabe on behalf of Office of the Chief Facilities Officer, UAB Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the University of Alabama Board of Trustees at UAB Hospital Planning, 8th Floor Daniel Building, 15 20th Street S., Birmingham, Alabama 35233 until 4:00 PM Central Time, January 06, 2026.The original and two (2) flash drives with duplicates of submittals are required for pre-qualification approval; however, email transmission copies may be transmitted to the UAB Project Manager David McCabe at dcmccabe@uabmc.edu and cc’d to sheywood@ghafari.com and mfreeman@ghafari.com to expedite the review process with a hard-copy of the submittal and two flash drives to be delivered within 24 hours.

 

 

 

UAB Highlands

 

AHU 1-B Replacement

 

University of Alabama at Birmingham

 

Birmingham, Alabama

 

Project No.:H255017

 

 

 

  1. SCOPE OF WORK:

 

 

 

The project consists of the replacement of AHU-1B at the UAB Highlands facility. The scope of work includes mechanical demolition and new work, as well as associated architectural and electrical modifications as required to facilitate the equipment replacement. The construction budget is anticipated to be between $250,000 and $350,000

 

 

 

The work will be performed under a single Prime General Contractor who will coordinate the work of this project. Particular and specific care will be required to coordinate complex shutdowns, limit disturbances, and follow strict Infection Controls and Interim Life Safety Measures (ICRA/ILSM) requirements for the protection of patients, family, and staff. The Prime General Contractors seeking to be pre-qualified will require experience with similar size and type hospital projects performed in and adjacent to an operating hospital environment and with the implementation and maintenance of infection control measures, interim life safety measures, coordinating shutdowns, and maintaining a clean and organized job site in an operating hospital. The General Contractor must have experience with representative projects as a General Contractor (not as a Construction Manager, Program Manager, etc.)

 

 

 

 

 

  1. PRIME GENERAL CONTRACTOR BIDDER PRE-QUALIFICATIONS:

 

 

 

Prime General Contractor bidders interested in submitting a proposal must apply for pre-qualification and must be licensed under the Provision of Title 34, Chapter 8, and Code of Alabama, 1975. A copy of current Alabama Contractors license is to be included in pre-qualification submittal.

 

 

 

 

 

Only bidders who have completed the pre-qualification process and that have been approved will be eligible to submit a bid for the Project. Prospective Bidder’s Pre-qualification Package must be received by the Owner’s Project Manager no later than 4:00 PM Central Time, January 06, 2026, after which no further requests will be considered.

 

 

 

Pre-qualification Requirements Information Package may be obtained from the Architect upon letterhead request sent by email or scanned into an email to sheywood@ghafari.com, copy mfreeman@ghafari.com and dcmccabe@uabmc.edu. Any addenda to the pre-qualification requirements will be issued to documented prime contractors only.

 

 

 

The pre-qualification procedure is intended to identify responsible and competent prime contractor bidders relative to the requirements of the Project. Each prospective prime contractor bidder will be notified of the results of the pre-qualification, on or about January 09, 2026.

 

 

 

The Owner reserves the right to waive technical errors in applications, extend or abandon the pre-qualification process, should the interests of the Owner appear to be promoted thereby.

 

 

 

Progress Design and Construction Documents:

 

Prior to the pre-qualification deadline, project progress plans and specifications may be examined at the following location beginning January 09, 2026:

 

 

 

Architect:

 

Ghafari Associates

 

2170 Highland Ave S

 

Suite 220

 

Birmingham, AL 35205

 

Phone:205-203-4611

 

Contact: Scott Heywood

 

Email: sheywood@ghafari.com

 

  1. BIDS BY PRE-QUALIFIED PRIME GENERAL CONTRACTOR BIDDERS

 

 

 

Documents: 

 

Bid documents will be available at the following locations after notice to pre-qualified bidders is given. Drawings and specifications may be examined at; ALGX Digital Plan Room, http://www.algraphics.com, 2801 5th Ave, South, Birmingham, AL 35233: Dodge Data & Analytics, http://www.construction.com, 2860 S State Hwy 161, Ste 160 #501, Grand Prairie, TX  75052-7361; at the AGC Internet Plan Room, 5000 Grantswood Road Suite 100, Irondale, AL 35210; at the Birmingham Construction Industry Authority, http://www.bcia1.org, 601 37th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35222; and at the Construction Market Data, http://www.cmdgroup.com, 30 Technology Pkwy, South, Suite 500, Norcross, GA 30092-2912.

 

 

 

 

 

Bonds:

 

A certified check or bid bond payable to the University of Alabama at Birmingham in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000 must accompany the bidder’s proposal. Performance and Statutory Labor and Material Payment Bonds will be required at the signing of the Contract.

 

 

 

Bids:

 

Bids must be submitted on proposal forms or copies thereof furnished by the Architect. No bid may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids for a period of ninety (90) days. The Owner reserves the right to reject bids if such action is determined to be in the best interest of the Owner. The Owner reserves the right to revoke pre-qualification of any bidder in accordance with Section 39-2-12, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended in 1997 (by Act 97-225). The Bid Date is January 29, 2026 at 2:00 PM Central Time at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, UAB Hospital Planning, 8th Floor Daniel Building, 15 20th Street S., Birmingham, Alabama 35233. Bids shall be clearly identified on the exterior of the package with the bidder’s name, address, State license number, the name of the project being bid, time and place of the bid opening. Sealed bids shall be properly identified.

 

 

 

On the date of the bid opening, bids may be hand delivered or received by Express Service mail to the Office of David McCabe, Project Manager Facilities and Capital Projects, 8th Floor Daniel Building, 15 20th Street S., Birmingham, Alabama 35233, until 12:00 noon. After 12:00 noon of the date of the bid opening, proposals must be hand delivered and presented at the bid opening. Sealed proposals shall be submitted in triplicate and shall be properly identified. All proposals received after 2:00 p.m. on January 29, 2026 (the date and time set for the receipt of bids) will be returned unopened.

 

 

 

Nonresident Prime Contractor Bidders:

 

Under Section 39-3-5, Code of Alabama, 1975, nonresident prime contractor bidders must accompany any written bid documents with a written opinion of an attorney licensed to practice law in such nonresident prime contractor bidder’s state of domicile as to the preferences, if any or none, granted by the law of the state to its own business entities whose principal place of business are in that state in the letting of any or all public contracts. Resident prime contractors in Alabama, as defined in Section 39-2-12, are granted preference over nonresident prime contractors in awarding of contracts in the same manner and to the same extent as provided by the laws of the state of domicile of the nonresident.

 

 

 

Fire Alarm Work:

 

In accordance with Title 34, Chapter 33A (the ACT), of the Code of Alabama 1975, bidders for fire alarm work of this project, if any, must include with their bid evidence of licensure as required by the ACT by including with the bid submittal a valid State Fire Marshal’s permit.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. PRE-BID CONFERENCE

 

A mandatory Pre-Bid Conference is currently scheduled to be held at 2:00 PM CST on January 12, 2026 at UAB Hospital Facilities, 8th Floor Daniel Building, 15 20th Street S., Birmingham, Alabama 35233. It is mandatory that all pre-qualified prime contractor bidders attend the Pre-Bid Conference.

 

 

 

 

 

BT12/23/2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

 

 

 

 

 

NOTICE TO PUBLIC

 

 

 

As of October 31, 2025, DMS Moving Systems, Inc., located at 900 Powder Plant Rd Ste 128, Bessemer, AL 35022, no longer represents Atlas Van Lines, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BT12/23/2025

 

 

 

______________________________

 

 

 

ADVERTISEMENT for BIDDER PRE-QUALIFICATION

 

And NOTICE of INTENT to RECEIVE BIDS

 

from PREQUALIFIED BIDDERS

 

 

 

Pre-qualification submittals will be received by the Owner’s Representative/Project Manager,
Darren Kruty on behalf of Office of the Chief Facilities Officer, UAB Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the University of Alabama Board of Trustees at UAB Hospital Planning, 15 20TH St S., Birmingham, AL 35233 until 4:00 PM Central Time,
Friday, January 9, 2025.The original and two (2) flash drives with duplicates of submittals are required for pre-qualification approval; however, email transmission copies may be transmitted to the Project Manager at dkruty@uabmc.edu and copied to rachelh@bparchitects.com to expedite the review process with a hard-copy of the submittal and two flash drives to be delivered within 24 hours.

 

 

 

UAB Quarterback Tower SPECT Installation

 

For The

 

University of Alabama at Birmingham

 

Birmingham, Alabama

 

UAB Project No.: H255020

 

 

 

  1. SCOPE OF WORK:

 

 

 

Renovation for a new SPECT Imaging Room, control room, and future imaging room shell space, and associated renovations including but not limited to flooring, gypsum board, painting, ceilings, concrete work, plumbing, fire sprinkler, HVAC, and electrical work. The work will be performed using Infection Control measures so that clinical operations can continue without interruption. Adjacent spaces are sensitive to noise and vibrations and may require measures to mitigate these issues. The project is located contiguous with fully functioning patient clinical areas and Contractors must have significant experience in working in a hospital clinical environment and have knowledge and experience with implementation, monitoring, and maintaining Infection Control and Interim Life Safety measures. This project will require significant coordination, working with the Owners’ specified equipment vendors, and scheduling to successfully deliver the project. The estimated construction cost is estimated to be approximately between $700,000 and $900,000.

 

 

 

 

 

  1. PRIME CONTRACTOR BIDDER PRE-QUALIFICATIONS:

 

 

 

Prime contractor bidders interested in submitting a proposal must apply for pre-qualification and must be licensed under the Provision of Title 34, Chapter 8, and Code of Alabama, 1975. A copy of current Alabama Contractors license is to be included in pre-qualification submittal.

 

 

 

Only prime contractor bidders who have completed the pre-qualification process and that have been approved will be eligible to submit a bid/perform work for the Project. Prospective Bidder’s Pre-qualification Package must be received by the Owner’s Project Manager no later than 4:00 PM Central Time, January 9, 2025 after which no further requests will be considered.

 

 

 

Pre-qualification Requirements Information Package may be obtained from the Architect upon letterhead request. Any addendums to the prequalification requirements will be issued to documented prime contractors only.

 

 

 

The pre-qualification procedure is intended to identify responsible and competent prime contractor bidders relative to the requirements of the Project. Each prospective prime contractor bidder will be notified of the results of the pre-qualification, on or about
January 16, 2025.

 

 

 

The Owner reserves the right to waive technical errors in applications, extend or abandon the pre-qualification process, should the interests of the Owner appear to be promoted thereby.

 

 

 

Progress Design and Construction Documents:

 

Prior to the pre-qualification deadline, project progress plans and specifications may be examined at the following location:

 

 

 

Architect:

 

Birchfield Penuel Architects

 

2805 Crescent Avenue, Suite 200

 

Birmingham, Alabama 35209

 

Ms. Alicia Pughsley

 

205-870-1876

 

aliciap@bparchitects.com

 

 

 

  1. BIDS BY PRE-QUALIFIED PRIME GENERAL CONTRACTOR BIDDERS

 

 

 

Documents: 

 

After notice to pre-qualified bidders is given, the pre-qualified prime contractor bidders may obtain bid documents from the Architect (see address above) upon deposit of $100.00 per set. The deposit is refundable in full on the first two (2) sets issued to each prime general contractor bidder upon return of documents in reusable condition within ten (10) days after bid opening. Additional sets for pre-qualified prime contractor bidders, subcontractors, vendors, or dealers may be obtained upon payment of the same deposit. The deposit for additional sets shall be refunded less the cost of printing, reproduction, handling, and distribution, upon return of the documents in reusable condition within ten (10) days after bid opening.

 

 

 

Bid documents will be available at the following locations after notice to pre-qualified bidders is given. Drawings and specifications may be examined at the Office of the Architect; and electronically at ConstructConnect and Dodge Data & Analytics.

 

 

 

Bonds:

 

A certified check or bid bond payable to the University of Alabama at Birmingham in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid, but in no event more than $10,000 must accompany the bidder’s proposal. Performance and Statutory Labor and Material Payment Bonds will be required at the signing of the Contract.

 

 

 

Bids:

 

Bids must be submitted on proposal forms or copies thereof furnished by the Architect. No bid may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids for a period of ninety (90) days. The Owner reserves the right to reject bids if such action is determined to be in the best interest of the Owner. The Owner reserves the right to revoke pre-qualification of any bidder in accordance with Section 39-2-12, Code of Alabama, 1975, as amended in 1997 (by Act 97-225). The Bid Date is February 5, 2026 at 2:00 PM Central Time at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, UAB Hospital Planning, 15 20TH St S., Birmingham, AL 35233., Birmingham, Alabama 35294. Bids shall be clearly identified on the exterior of the package with the bidder’s name, address, State license number, the name of the project being bid, time and place of the bid opening. Sealed bids shall be properly identified.

 

 

 

Proposals may be hand delivered or received by mail on the date of the bid opening at the Office of Darren Kruty, Project Manager Facilities and Capital Projects, Daniel Building, 15 20TH St S., Birmingham, AL 35233, until 12:00 noon. After 12:00 noon of the date of the bid opening, proposals must be hand delivered and presented at the bid opening. Sealed proposals shall be submitted in triplicate and shall be properly identified. All proposals received after 2:00 p.m. on
February 5, 2026 will be returned unopened.

 

 

 

Fire Alarm Work

 

In accordance with Title 34, Chapter 33A, of the Code of Alabama 1975, bidders for fire alarm work of this project, if any, must include with their bid, evidence of licensure as required by the act, by including with the bid submittal, a valid State Fire Marshal’s permit.

 

 

 

  1. PRE-BID CONFERENCE

 

A mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at 10:00 am at UAB Hospital Facilities, 15 20TH St S., Birmingham, AL 35233. It is mandatory that all pre-qualified prime contractor bidders attend the Pre-Bid Conference.

 

 

 

 

 

BT12/23/2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

 

 

 

 

 

INVITATION TO BID

 

The City of Birmingham will accept sealed bids for the project Alley Resurfacing Citywide 2026; Project # ENG 2025-024.Bids will be received by the City Engineer in Suite 220 of City Hall, Birmingham, Alabama until Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 2:00 pm (CST).Sealed bids will be time-stamped at the time of arrival. Bids will then be publicly opened and read in Suite 220 Conference Room beginning at 2:00 pm. It is the bidder’s responsibility to make sure that the bid is in the possession of the City Engineer on or before time set for opening. Bids received after this time will not be considered. Bids can be dropped into the bid box located in Room 220 City Hall, hand-delivered to the City Engineer in Room 220 of City Hall or brought to the bid opening.

 

 

 

This is a project to resurfacing approximately 55 alley segments throughout the city. Approximate primary quantities:

 

Milling (1.5”) – 30,000 SY, Asphalt Seal – 4,000 Tons

 

 

 

A MANDATORY PRE-BID CONFERENCE will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at 3:00 pm (CST) in Conference Room 220 City Hall.

 

 

 

Bid documents are open to public inspection at the Office of the City Engineer in the Department of Capital Projects — Suite 220 of City Hall, 710 20th Street North, Birmingham, AL 35203.Bid documents may be viewed and purchased through the City of Birmingham online plans room site at https://www.birminghamplanroom.com/ under the project name 40th St N Street Improvements. Any cost for reproduction shall be the responsibility of bidders. Prospective bidders are advised to check their source of bid documents frequently for any addenda to the bid documents. It is the bidder’s responsibility to bid on the correct set of bid documents.

 

 

 

Bids shall be accompanied by a cashier’s check drawn on an Alabama bank, or a bid bond executed by a surety company duly authorized and qualified to make such bonds in the State of Alabama, in an amount equal to 5% of the bid (subject to maximum of $10,000) and payable to the City of Birmingham. Bid bonds of the three (3) lowest bidders will be held for a period of ninety (90) days unless bidders agree, in writing, to a longer period of time. No bid may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for the receipt of the bids for a period of ninety (90) days.

 

 

 

A performance bond equal to 100% of the contract amount and a payment bond equal to 100% of the contract amount will be required of the successful bidder during the award process. Said bonds shall be executed by a surety company duly authorized and qualified to make such bonds in the State of Alabama.

 

 

 

Liability insurance certificates shall be required of the successful bidder during the award process, and such certificates shall list the City of Birmingham, its officials, agents, and employees as additional named insured.

 

 

 

Only bids submitted by General Contractors licensed in the State of Alabama in accordance with Alabama Code Chapter 8, Title 34 (inclusive) will be considered.

 

 

 

Bids shall be submitted in a sealed envelope marked “Alley Resurfacing Citywide 2026” on the outside of each envelope. Contractors shall also write on the outside of the sealed bid envelope his or her State of Alabama general contractor’s license number as well as the name of the company submitting the bid.

 

 

 

The sealed bid envelope shall contain the following documents: (1) the Form of Proposal, (2) Sales Tax Attachment form, (3) the Authorization to Execute form, (4) fully executed bid bond or certified check, (5) MBE/DBE Forms A, C, and D, (6) a copy of the contractor’s current State of Alabama General Contractor’s License, (7) a current City of Birmingham Business License, (8) E-verify documentation, (9) Transparency in City Government form, and (10) List of Subcontractors.

 

 

 

This project is subject to the requirements of the Birmingham Plan-Construction Industry Program, which is designed to encourage the utilization of Minority Business Enterprises and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (“MBE/DBE”) in City of Birmingham construction projects. The program is administered by the Birmingham Construction Industry Authority (BCIA) which establishes a system of floating MBE/DBE goals which may differ from year to year and project to project. Overall, these goals shall not be less than the historical participation of MBE/DBE’s in construction projects of the City and its agencies.

 

 

 

Special attention is called to the requirement of all bidders to identify trades and activities for which it will solicit and accept bids from potential MBE/DBE subcontractors. Potential bidders are encouraged to contact the Birmingham Construction Industry Authority (BCIA) to request a list of potential subcontractors and submit the required MBE/DBE forms by contacting the Executive Director, Birmingham Construction Industry Authority at 601 37th Street South, Birmingham, AL, 35222; telephone (205) 324-6202 or info@bcia1.org.

 

 

 

As a matter of public policy, the City of Birmingham agrees to make opportunities available to the maximum extent possible, to actively include Historically Underutilized Business Enterprises (HUBE’s) such as architectural firms, engineering firms, investment banking firms, other professional consultant services providers, and construction contractors as part of business, economic and community revitalization programs.

 

 

 

The City of Birmingham reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive any informality in any bid.

 

 

 

Jesse Miller, PE

 

City Engineer

 

 

 

 

 

BT12/23/2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

 

 

 

Sealed Bid Proposals will be received by the Environmental Services Department, Jefferson County, Alabama, online at QuestCDN (eBidDoc #9986191), until 2:00 P.M. local time on Wednesday, FEBRUARY 4, 2026, and then publicly opened and read via virtual video conference using Microsoft Teams for the SANITARY SEWER SYSTEM – ASSET MANAGEMENT PROGRAM – CONTRACT NO. 2023 PS 01 – FIVE MILE CREEK WEST PUMP STATION IMPROVEMENTS. Microsoft Teams can be accessed using a direct invitation link sent via email (request this link from Tad Powell, Hazen and Sawyer, at email tpowell@hazenandsawyer.com).

 

 

 

The scope of work includes renovation of the wet well, repair to structural concrete and coatings, replacement of pumps, piping and valves, electrical improvements to meet NFPA 820, demolition of existing electrical building and replacement of electrical equipment including a new generator.

 

 

 

Bidding Documents are on file for inspection, by appointment only, at the following location:

 

 

 

Jefferson County Environmental Services Department

 

716 Richard Arrington Jr. Boulevard North, Suite A-300

 

Birmingham, Alabama 35203

 

Contact for Appointment: Colyn Bradley at (205) 325-5123

 

 

 

Complete sets of electronic Bidding Documents (Specifications and Drawings) are available at https://www.jeffcoes.org (navigate to “BID/CONTRACTS “to “NOTICE TO BIDDERS” To “Asset Management Program – Project Bid Information” for a listing of projects). Prior to downloading the Bidding Documents, Bidders will be required to set up a QuestCDN.com account and pay a $64.00 fee ($22.00 fee for download only).Hard copies of the Bidding Documents are the responsibility of the Bidders. Contact QuestCDN at 952-233-1632 or info@questcdn.com for assistance with navigating the website and digital project information.

 

 

 

Bids will only be accepted from pre-qualified contractors who are listed on the Plan Holders List, signifying that they have purchased a set of documents from the Engineer, and who attend the MANDATORY Pre-Bid Conference.

 

 

 

NO BID PROPOSAL SHALL BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE TIME STATED FOR RECEIVING BID PROPOSALS IN THIS NOTICE. A FORM CONTAINING THE CONTRACTOR’S NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE FIRM AND THE CONTRACTOR’S ALABAMA LICENSE NUMBER WITH THE DATE OF EXPIRATION IS REQUIRED WITH THE SUBMISSION OF THE BID. THESE REQUIREMENTS SHALL NOT BE WAIVED.

 

 

 

The Contractor is hereby advised that TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE on this project. The Contract Time for this project is five hundred and forty (540) consecutive calendar days. The first 270 days will be an administrative period followed by a 270-day construction period from the effective date of the written Notice to Proceed to achieve Final Acceptance. Liquidated damages will be assessed if this time limit is exceeded. The Contractor may apply for an extension of time in accordance with the provisions of the Contract; however, such an extension must be approved prior to the Contract Completion Date to avoid the imposition of liquidated damages.

 

 

 

The Contractor is hereby advised that a Pre-Bid Conference will be held via a virtual video conference on Wednesday, JANUARY 21, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. This Pre-Bid Conference is MANDATORY for all contractors planning to submit a Bid Proposal on this project. The conference call will be held using Microsoft Teams and can be accessed using a direct invitation link sent via email (request this link from Tad Powell, Hazen and Sawyer, at email tpowell@hazenandsawyer.com). If you are unable to join the call due to technical difficulties, call Tad Powell (Hazen and Sawyer) at 205-957-4151 or Colyn Bradley (Jefferson County) at 205-325-5123 for assistance.

 

 

 

Questions concerning meaning or intent of Bidding Documents shall be submitted to Tad Powell, PE, Senior Associate, Hazen, and Sawyer, at email tpowell@hazenandsawyer.com no later than 5:00 p.m. local time on JANUARY 28, 2026.All questions must be in writing on Bidder’s company’s letterhead.

 

 

 

THE ATTENTION OF ALL BIDDERS IS CALLED TO THE PROVISIONS OF THE STATE LAW GOVERNING GENERAL CONTRACTORS, AS SET FORTH IN ALABAMA CODE SECTIONS 34-8-1 THROUGH SECTION 34-8-28 (1975), AS AMENDED, CHAPTER 4, SECTION 65 TO 82 (INCLUSIVE) OF TITLE 46 OF THE CODE OF ALABAMA OF 1940, AS AMENDED; AND BIDDERS SHALL BE GOVERNED BY SAID LAW INSOFAR AS IT IS APPLICABLE. THE ABOVE-MENTIONED PROVISIONS OF THE CODE MAKE IT ILLEGAL FOR THE OWNER TO CONSIDER A BID PROPOSAL FROM ANYONE WHO IS NOT PROPERLY LICENSED UNDER SUCH CODE PROVISIONS.

 

 

 

THE ATTENTION OF BIDDERS IS CALLED TO THE PROVISIONS OF ALABAMA CODE SECTION 39-2-14 (1975) AS AMENDED, REQUIRING A NONRESIDENT CONTRACTOR TO REGISTER WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE PRIOR TO ENGAGING IN THE PERFORMANCE OF A CONTRACT IN THE STATE OF ALABAMA.

 

THE ATTENTION OF BIDDERS IS CALLED TO THE PROVISIONS OF ALABAMA CODE SECTION 39-3-5 (1975) AS AMENDED, REGARDING PREFERENCE TO RESIDENT CONTRACTORS.

 

THE ATTENTION OF BIDDERS IS CALLED TO THE PROVISIONS OF ALABAMA ACT 2016-312 AS AMENDED, REGARDING NOT ENGAGING IN THE BOYCOTT OF A PERSON OR ENTITY BASED IN OR DOING BUSINESS WITH A JURISDICTION WITH WHICH THIS STATE ENJOYS OPEN TRADE.

 

THE EXCAVATION PORTION OF THIS PROJECT IS CLASSIFIED AS A CLASS “D” SMALL WRF AND PUMP STATION PROJECT. ALL PROSPECTIVE BIDDERS MUST BE PRE-QUALIFIED WITH THE JEFFERSON COUNTY ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT TO BID CLASS “D” SMALL WRF AND PUMP STATION PROJECTS IN ORDER TO BID ON THIS PROJECT. To pre-qualify with the department and to construct class “D” SMALL WRF AND PUMP STATION PROJECTS, each prospective bidder must furnish written evidence of competency and evidence of financial responsibility to the county.

 

 

 

ACCORDINGLY, THE COUNTY WILL NOT ACCEPT PRE-QUALIFICATIONS AFTER JANUARY 9, 2026. BID PROPOSAL FORMS WILL NOT BE ISSUED TO PROSPECTIVE BIDDERS WHO DO NOT PRE-QUALIFY.

 

 

 

CONTRACTORS ARE ENCOURAGED TO CONTACT THE JEFFERSON COUNTY ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, 716 RICHARD ARRINGTON JR. BOULEVARD NORTH, SUITE A300, BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA, (205) 325-5496 IN ADVANCE OF THE DEADLINE TO DETERMINE IF THE CONTRACTOR IS PRE-QUALIFIED TO CONSTRUCT CLASS “D” SMALL WRF AND PUMP STATION PROJECTS, OR FOR OTHER INFORMATION REGARDING THE REQUIREMENTS FOR PRE-QUALIFICATION.

 

 

 

 

 

BY:

 

David Denard

 

Director of Environmental Services

 

Jefferson County, Alabama

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BT12/23/2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

 

 

 

 

 

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

 

SEALED PROPOSALS will be received from General Contractors by Hoover City Schools, 1070 Buccaneer Drive, Hoover, Alabama 35244 until the times noted below on January 29, 2026 for this project:

 

 

 

“HVAC Upgrades at South Shades Crest Elementary, Hoover Hall, and Hoover City Schools Board of Education Office”  Each facility will be an individual bid package as follows:

 

Package A – Re-bid: South Shades Crest Elementary  (1:30 PM CST)

 

Package B – Re-bid: Hoover Hall (2:00 PM CST)

 

Package C – Re-bid: Hoover City Schools Board of Education Office (2:30 PM CST)

 

at which time and place they will be publicly opened and read.

 

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

 

Drawings and specifications may be examined at the office of the Engineer.

 

Bid documents (Plans, Specifications, and Addenda) will be sent to General Contractors only from the Engineer electronically with no deposit. Subcontractors should contact a General Contractor for documents.

 

 

 

A MANDATORY PRE-BID CONFERENCE will be held at Hoover City Schools Maintenance Facility, 1070 Buccaneer Drive, Hoover, Alabama 35244  at 10:30AM CST January 20, 2026 for the purpose of reviewing the project and answering Bidder’s questions. Attendance at the Pre-Bid Conference IS REQUIRED for all General Contractor Bidders intending to submit a Proposal and is highly recommended for Subcontractors. Bids from General Contractors not attending the Pre-Bid Conference will be rejected.

 

Bids must be submitted on proposal forms furnished by the Engineer or copies thereof. All bidders bidding in amounts exceeding that established by the State Licensing Board for General Contractors must be licensed under the provisions of Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of Alabama, 1975, and must show evidence of license before bidding or bid will not be received or considered by the Engineer; the bidder shall show such evidence by clearly displaying his or her current license number on the outside of the sealed envelope in which the proposal is delivered.

 

The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive technical errors if, in the Owner’s judgement, the best interests of the Owner will thereby be promoted.

 

 

 

Hoover City Schools

 

2810 Metropolitan Way

 

Hoover, AL 35243

 

 

 

Dewberry Engineers Inc.

 

2 Riverchase Office Plaza

 

Suite 205

 

Birmingham, AL 35244

 

 

 

BT12/23/2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

 

 

 

 

 

BID 25-14-01

 

 

 

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

 

Central Alabama Water will be accepting sealed bids for Pipe (Annual), BID 25-14-01.

 

The specifications may be examined and obtained in the Purchasing Department’s office at3600 First Avenue North, Birmingham, AL 35222, or by emailing shayla.townsend@bwwb.org, or on our website at www.bwwb.org.

 

Sealed bids for Pipe (Annual) will be received in the Purchasing Department not later than Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at which time and place they will be publicly opened and read.

 

 

 

Prospective bidders should deliver or mail their sealed bids to 3600 1st Avenue North, Birmingham, Alabama 35222, directed to the attention of LyTonja Levert, Purchasing Manager, and marked in the lower left-hand corner of the envelope as follows: “Bid Pipe 25-14-01 Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.”

 

 

 

BT12/23/2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

 

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TENNESSEE AT CLARKSVILLE

 

 

 

NON-RESIDENT NOTICE

 

CASE NUMBER: CC-22-CV-2217

 

 

 

 

 

IN RE: CLINTON ALAN HARPER vs. ALLISYN BRIANNA HARPER

 

 

 

You are ordered to appear and defend an action filed against you entitled CLINTON ALAN HARPER vs. ALLISYN BRIANNA HARPER which has been filed in Circuit Court, Montgomery County, Tennessee, and your defense must be made within thirty (30) days from the date of the last publication of this notice, which shall be published for four (4) consecutive weeks in The Birmingham Times and send a copy to the plaintiffs’ attorney at the address listed below. In case of your failure to defend this action by the above date, judgment by default may be rendered against you for the relief demanded in the Petition.

 

 

 

Ordered 09/19/2025, by Judge Joel Wallace Attorney for Plaintiff

 

Amy C. Bates

 

412 Franklin Street

 

Clarksville, TN 37040

 

931-919-5060

 

 

 

 

 

BT12/23/2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

 

 

 

 

 

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

 

 

 

Track resurfacing for Central High School Track

 

For Tuscaloosa City Schools

 

Tuscaloosa, Alabama

 

 

 

OWNER PROJECT #: 2025-6

 

Sealed proposals will be received by Mr. Edward Smith, Executive Director of Facilities, Tuscaloosa City Schools, Central Office, 1210 Almon Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401, until 2:00 PM CT on Monday, Jan 12, 2026, at which time they will be opened and read aloud. Only bids received by Certified Mail, FedEx, DHL, UPS, or In Person will be accepted.

 

Contractors must visit the site prior to bidding. Project location: Central High School, 905 15th St, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401.

 

Bidders must carry general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. Bids shall exclude taxes and be submitted on forms provided by the Owner’s Representative. No bid may be withdrawn for 90 days. The Owner reserves the right to reject any proposal or waive technical errors.

 

A certified check or Bid Bond payable to Tuscaloosa City Schools Board of Education for 5% of the bid amount (max $10,000) must accompany each bid. Performance and payment bonds are required at contract signing.

 

Bidders exceeding State Licensing Board limits must be licensed under Title 34, Chapter 8, Code of Alabama (1975) and must list their license number on the outside of the sealed envelope.

 

Bid documents may be obtained by emailing jana@gamedayassociates.com. Only documents issued through this process are endorsed by the Owner/Engineer. Addenda will be issued only to confirmed bidders. The Owner/Engineer retains all document copyrights.

 

All RFIs regarding the bid documents shall be sent to Jana Cox at: jana@gamedayassociates.com.

 

 

 

Completion Time: See Scope of Work in Project Documents.

 

 

 

Supervision: Contractor to ensure proper supervision of all work.

 

 

 

Owner: Tuscaloosa City Schools, Dr. Mike Daria, Superintendent, 1210 Almon Ave, Tuscaloosa, AL 35401

 

 

 

Owner’s Representative: Gameday Associates, LLC, Jana Cox, jana@gamedayassociates.com

 

 

 

BT12/23/2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

 

 

 

 

 

____________________________

 

 

 

PETS

 

____________________________

 

 

 

Puppies for Sale

 

 

 

Beautiful mini schnauzer, pups, registered white and salt and pepper first shots, tails, docked, and wormed ready for Christmas !

 

$700. each.

 

 

 

BT12/23/2025

 

______________________________

 

 

 

 

Birmingham (AL) Records Less Than 100 Homicides in 2025, Dropping to 10-Year Low

By
Birmingham Times
-
0
In this Feb. 10, 2025 photo, interim Birmingham Police Chief Michael Pickett, alongside Sgt. Laquitta outlines steps the Birmingham Police Department has taken to strengthen its response to gun violence in the city. (Photo by Greg Garrison/AL.com)

By Carol Robinson | crobinson@al.com

For the first time in a decade, Birmingham ended 2025 with less than 100 homicides.

There were 88 homicides in 2025, down from 152 in 2024 when the city’s homicide tally broke a record set in 1933.

The city’s year-end tally mirrors the national trend in what experts describe as a dramatic drop in crime and in killings.

“The number of crimes reported to law enforcement agencies almost certainly fell at a historic clip in 2025, led by the largest one-year drop in murder,” said leading crime analyst Jeff Asher.

Birmingham fared even better, said Police Chief Michael Pickett.

“What I think is unique about what we’ve seen in Birmingham is while in other cities they are seeing reductions, their reductions are 25 percent, 30 percent,” Pickett said, “but in Birmingham, the majority of the year, we saw around 50 percent consistently for the vast majority of the year.”

The homicide reduction rate in the city ended with a 44 percent drop but peaked at 56 percent.

The last time Birmingham dipped below 100 was in 2015 with a year-end tally of 92.

From 2016 through 2025, homicides continued to mostly rise each year:

  • 2016 — 104
  • 2017 — 111
  • 2018 — 107
  • 2019 — 106
  • 2020 — 122
  • 2021 — 132
  • 2022 — 144
  • 2023 — 135

Among the 2025 Birmingham homicides was a man who was shot in 2024 and died in 2025.

Two of homicides happened at the hands of Birmingham police, two others were accidental and 11 were ruled justified.

Police agencies only have to report chargeable homicides to the FBI for statistical review and for 2025, that would be 72.

“Let me be clear, this is not a victory lap,” Mayor Randall Woodfin said in a Facebook post Wednesday.

“Because even one homicide is too many,” he said. “Every number is a person. A family. A community changed forever.”

The last time Birmingham dipped below 100 homicides was in 2015 with a year-end tally of 92. (File)

In all of Jefferson County, there were 128 homicides, including the 88 in Birmingham.

Those slayings happened in:

  • Bessemer, 9
  • Unincorporated Jefferson County, 8
  • Hoover, 3 which included a shooting by law enforcement from an outside agency
  • Center Point, 3
  • Graysville, 2
  • Tarrant, 2
  • Midfield, 2
  • Fairfield, 2
  • Lipscomb, 2
  • Homewood, 2, both of which were shootings by Homewood police officers
  • Gardendale, 1
  • Hueytown, 1
  • Trussville, 1
  • Brighton, 1

Additionally, the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office recorded the death of a 45-year-old Birmingham man as a homicide after he was stabbed to death in William Donaldson Correction Facility.

AL.com does not include traffic fatalities where criminal charges were filed in the annual homicide county.

As of Dec. 29, the latest statistics available from the city, there were also decreases in the crime categories of robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, and auto theft.

Thefts rose roughly 11 percent, statistics show. The city no longer posts numbers for the category of rape, though the reason is unclear.

In all, the city is reporting a 1.1 percent in all crime.

The drop in crime in 2025 continues a trend that began in 2023, accelerated in 2024, and likely would become historic in 2025, Asher has said.

‘We just can’t be in people’s homes’

Pickett said it’s significant that Birmingham is nearly doubling the national trend.

He and Woodfin attribute the success to the department’s strategy for fighting violent crime, and the execution of that strategy from the officers.

Pickett, who was 40 and the youngest person to lead the police department in the city’s history when he was initially appointed interim chief in October 2024, said his implementation of the Special Enforcement Team has played a major role in decreasing crime.

“They’re going after people who are known shooters, going after the areas where we know there is potential violent activity and engaging those individuals before they can act,” he said.

“The strategy is pursuing those once we know they’ve committed some type violent act whether it was a homicide, a discharging into an occupied dwelling or vehicle, and getting that person in custody.”

“When we had our homicides throughout the year,” the chief said, “we wanted to as quickly as possible identify those responsible and get that person in custody.”

Doing so, he said, prevents retaliation and prevents them being able to reoffend.

It also inspires confidence from the community.

“When the public sees how swift we are arresting people, how proactive we’re being, the criminals see that so they dial it back a little bit,” Pickett said, “and it gives the public confidence that if they have information they want to share with us to help us, they’re more willing to talk with us as well.”

In the record-breaking 2024, there were three mass shootings in the city and also multiple shootings involving clubs or establishments that operated at night.

“So we did add components to our Business Compliance Unit and we had much stronger enforcement through the year as it relates to nightclubs and bars to make sure they were in compliance with the public safety plan they presented to the City Council,” he said.

He said they also focused on smaller businesses such as food trucks and car washes.

“We noticed there were incidents, shootings, around illegally or improperly operating businesses and there was definitely more enforcement in that space (in 2025),” he said. “I think that helped.”

In 2025, especially in the last half of the year, Pickett said the major trend was domestic violence homicides.

“We saw our traditional conflict resolution, disagreements, things that sparked in the moment and not so much of an organized type of crime situation that we saw last year, and not so much retaliation,” Pickett said. “We did have a slightly different profile than we saw last year.”

Domestic homicides are always challenging.

“The main challenge is we just can’t be in people’s homes to prevent that,” he said.

Jefferson County (AL) Democrats Open Qualifying for 2026 Primary Elections

By
Birmingham Times
-
0
Candidate qualifying for the 2026 Democratic Primary Election will open today and close on Friday, January 23. (File)

The Birmingham Times

The Jefferson County (AL) Democratic Party announced Friday that candidate qualifying for the 2026 Democratic Primary Election that include races for Jefferson County Commission and Jefferson County Sheriff will open on today Monday, January 5 and close on Friday, January 23.

Qualifying will take place in person at 1601 5th Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203, during the following dates and times:

  • Monday–Friday: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Saturday, January 17: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Qualifying will occur only during these designated dates and times. No exceptions will be made for the primary elections, which are scheduled for Tues. May 19.

Josh Coleman

Josh Coleman, Chair of the Jefferson County Democratic Party, said the qualifying period is an important step in building strong Democratic leadership in the state’s most populous county.

“Jefferson County has made clear that Democratic leadership delivers,” said Coleman. “Candidate qualifying is about sustaining that progress and ensuring we continue to elect leaders who are committed to good governance, strong public services, and representing the diverse communities that make our county thrive.”

Coleman added that the party is focused on encouraging thoughtful, prepared candidates who understand the responsibility of public service.

“The work of governing doesn’t start on Election Day — it starts now,” Coleman said. “We are encouraging candidates who believe in service, accountability, and moving Jefferson County forward to take part in this process.”

The following offices will qualify through the Jefferson County Democratic Party:

  • Jefferson County Commission (All 5 districts)
  • Jefferson County Sheriff
  • Jefferson County Tax Assessor
  • Jefferson County Tax Collector
  • Assistant Tax Assessor (Bessemer Division)
  • Assistant Tax Collector (Bessemer Division)
  • Jefferson County Board of Education – District 4
  • Jefferson County Democratic Executive Committee
  • Three (3) men and three (3) women per County Commission District. All candidates must complete the full qualifying process during their in-person visit, including submission of required paperwork and payment of qualifying fees. Candidates who do not complete all required steps will not be considered qualified.

For additional information, candidates and members of the public may visit www.jeffcodems.com or contact Josh Coleman, Chair of the Jefferson County Democratic Party, via email at josh@jeffcodems.com.

Birmingham Begins Construction on Permanent East Lake Safety Barriers

By
Birmingham Times
-
0
The City of Birmingham has began construction on the next phase of its Safe Streets: Eastlake initiative. (Provided Rendering)

By Alaina Bookman | abookman@al.com

After 18 months, the city of Birmingham has begun construction on permanent barriers for their Safe Streets: East Lake initiative.

Construction for the East Lake crime curbing project in began in late December and is expected to be completed by March 30, according to a city of Birmingham spokesperson. The temporary concrete barriers, placed to literally stop crime from entering the neighborhood, have long been a controversial topic for some residents. But officials say the project has been successful at improving quality of life in the neighborhood.

“There have been serious crime concerns. You have to strike a balance…When you look at the balance of public safety versus someone’s convenience, I think all of us are going to err on the side of public safety,” City Council President Darrell O’Quinn told AL.com.

The Safe Streets initiative, which launched July 2024, aimed to make East Lake safer by controlling and limiting access points to the neighborhood.

For a year and a half, city officials worked to deter speeding, shootings, theft, prostitution and violent crime through targeted blight removal and by placing speed bumps, stop signs and temporary concrete barriers at 19 key access points.

In September 2025, the Birmingham city council approved a $372,482 contract with Gillespie Construction LLC to install the new, permanent barriers.

The new barriers will include steel bollards and planted trees.

18 months in the making

Between the project’s launch and now, city officials knocked on doors and held meetings to inform residents of updates and listen to their comments and concerns.

The temporary barriers, brightly painted concrete blocks normally seen at construction sites, were a controversial topic for many residents.

In January 2025, during a city council meeting some residents said the barriers had not improved their quality of life. One resident said bullets were shot into her home.

On the other hand, another resident said the initiative was like an answered prayer.

O’Quinn said the benefits of the barriers outweigh the negatives.

In December 2025, O’Quinn and other city officials sat in on a neighborhood association meeting to answer questions and field concerns from residents.

“What I’ve heard from residents is almost uniform appreciation for the project,” O’Quinn told AL.com. “The concerns that I’ve heard are mostly related to convenience and not safety concerns.”

He added that Birmingham police and fire officials have reported that response times to emergencies in the neighborhood have not been affected by the barriers.

“I’m sure there are some folks who have some negative things to say about the project. However, by my observation, they are in a clear minority, and most of the folks who have cared to show up or write correspondence have been positive about the project,” O’Quinn said.

What’s next

O’Quinn said that with reports of violent crime on East Lake’s First Avenue North dating back to the 1980’s there is still more work to be done to make the neighborhood safer.

“This is not a silver bullet. There’s still serious safety concerns in that area,” O’Quinn said. “The city has done a lot of work to try and address those issues in that neighborhood, and I don’t see those priorities really changing significantly.”

The city of Birmingham website states that there are plans to expand the Safe Street initiative across the city.

“With this type of project, the Safe Streets initiative, code enforcement, additional staffing in the Birmingham Police Department, and new technologies, I think we’re on the right trajectory towards improving conditions that have been less than desirable in neighborhoods like East Lake for the past few decades,” O’Quinn said.

AABE’s HBCU Energy Hackathon Continues Mission of Opening Minds and Doors for Students

By
Birmingham Times
-
0
Winners of the fourth annual HBCU AABE Hackathon by division were: Best four-year institution, Alabama A&M; Best two-year institution, Lawson State Community College; and Community impact, Talladega College. (Submitted)

By Anthony Cook | Alabama News Center

Students from five historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) squared off recently in the fourth annual HBCU Energy Hackathon presented by the  American Association of Blacks in Energy (AABE). The event featured teams from Alabama A&M University, Tuskegee University, Talladega College,  Lawson State Community College  and Trenholm State Community College competing for prizes totaling $17,500.

The Birmingham Chapter of AABE partnered with the Alabama Power Foundation to present the hackathon last month at  Alabama Power  headquarters in downtown Birmingham. The purpose is to introduce students to human-centered design thinking and foster innovation around energy-related challenges.

The hallenge was to “Quantify the Impact: A Digital Tool for Non-Energy Benefits of Home Efficiency.” Students were tasked with designing a digital platform (web or mobile) to estimate and visualize non-energy benefits – such as health improvements, economic gains, and social outcomes – resulting from energy efficiency upgrades. The teams were scored on creativity, innovation, potential impact and presentation delivery.

Winners by division were: Best four-year institution, Alabama A&M; Best two-year institution, Lawson State Community College; and Community impact, Talladega College.The HBCU Energy Hackathon is just one facet of Alabama Power’s and the Alabama Power Foundation’s ongoing support of Alabama HBCUs. So far this year, the Foundation has awarded more than $1.2 million in grants to support HBCU institutions and students.

“We’re committed to creating opportunities where students can showcase their talents and connect with mentors who are invested in their growth,” said Staci Brooks, Alabama Power VP of Charitable Giving. “The hackathon is a springboard for future leaders, and it’s inspiring to see students seize every opportunity to learn and lead.”

Serving as judges were Dr. Brittany Holloman, executive director of HBCU CARES; Chris Blake, Alabama Power assistant treasurer; Estes Hughes, vice president of innovation and entrepreneurship for the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama; Dr. Patrick Murphy, Goodrich chair and professor, director for the J. Frank Barefield Jr. Entrepreneurship Program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham; and Monica McShan, supplier inclusion manager for Southern Company Services.

Students from five HBCUs participated recently in the fourth annual HBCU AABE Hackathon hosted by Alabama Power. (Submitted)

Students participating in this year’s hackathon included:

  • Tuskegee University — Team: Tuskegee Golden Roar
  • Christopher Anderson — Junior, Computer Science
  • Madison Harper — Junior, Computer Engineering
  • Izhar Jean — Sophomore, Electrical Engineering
  • Diara Lawrence — Senior, Mechanical Engineering
  • Azya Wilson — Senior, Mechanical Engineering

Lawson State Community College — Team: Cougar W.A.T.T.S.

  • Taylor Grace — Sophomore, Aerospace Engineering
  • Akira Hubbard — Sophomore, Electrical Engineering
  • McKinley — Freshman, General Studies (Civil Engineering concentration)
  • Dale Miller — Sophomore, Computer Science
  • AJay Thedford — Sophomore, Graphic Arts Communication / Media Production

Talladega College — Team: Dega Tornadoes

  • Abigail Osunde — Junior, Computer Science
  • Oluwatosin Oseni — Junior, Computer Science
  • Mark Willis — Senior, Computer Science
  • Natassia Mohammed — Junior, Cybersecurity
  • Rokibat Adepoju — Junior, Business Administration (Marketing concentration)

Trenholm State Community College — Team: Terrific Titans

  • Jacqueline Pou — Senior, Computer Information Systems
  • Roosevelt Robinson Jr. — Sophomore, Computer Information Systems
  • Kennedi Kemp — Senior, Computer Information Systems (Cybersecurity concentration)
  • Henry Chun — Sophomore, CIS
  • Jaylen Hardy — Sophomore, Computer Information Systems

Alabama A&M University — Team: Enerlytix

  • John Adeyemo — Junior, Electrical Engineering
  • Uchenna Justin — Junior, Computer Science
  • Tapiwa Musinga — Junior, Computer Science
  • Amarachi Ezekiel — Junior, Computer Science
  • Ayoola Akinlawon — Junior, Accounting

In addition to tackling a critical energy issue, the event also provides networking opportunities, exposure to energy careers and mentorship from energy professionals. The evening before the hackathon, students were able to attend a fireside chat featuring McShan and moderated by Tondra Fields, program manager for Southern Company Services, Campus Recruiting.

The AABE Birmingham Chapter, founded in 1989, is a nonprofit organization and one of nine chapters in the Southeast Region. Its mission is to provide direct input into the deliberations and developments of energy policies, regulations, emerging technologies, and environmental issues.

AABE chapters are dedicated to promoting and building awareness around energy and energy issues and sustainability by offering community engagement opportunities and innovative educational programs. Another focus for AABE is encouraging African American students to pursue careers in energy-related fields.

As a testament to the impact of the hackathon, a first-year participant, LaTroy Wagner, attended this year’s competition. Wagner is now employed in Transmission Planning at Alabama Power.

Terrance Moultrie, AABE Birmingham Chapter president, said that’s what it’s all about.

“As we celebrate our fourth annual HBCU Hackathon, we’re reminded of the power of partnership and mentorship,” Moultrie said. “This event gives students the chance to showcase their skills, build relationships, and envision their future in the energy sector.”

Learn more about the American Association of Blacks in Energy at AABE.org. Learn more about the Alabama Power Foundation at powerofgood.com.

Be Inspired By These Five Food Resolutions for the New Year

By
Birmingham Times
-
0
Consider spending most of your eating-out money at locally owned independent restaurants, and buying local produce for meals at home. (Adobe Stock)

By Eric Velasco | SoulGrown

It’s that time again when we make resolutions for how we’ll live in the new year and perhaps assess how we did with the goals we set 12 months ago.

As a culinary writer, my thoughts naturally turn to what and how I plan to eat and drink this coming year, while also providing readers some food for thought.

Here are five goals for 2026 that can tie into locally driven and sustainable food habits:

Eat more food grown nearby

In Alabama, we are blessed to have such easy access to homegrown food, especially vegetables and fruit. There are many reasons they should play a prominent role on the plate. Picked at or near the peak of ripeness — within 24 hours in most cases when buying from a local farmers market — these healthful options taste much better and are more nutrient-dense than their chain-grocery counterparts.

Eating seasonally has a flavor benefit, too. Anyone who has tried a strawberry that was grown in South America — and shipped through a series of warehouses before reaching the supermarket shelf — knows it pales (literally and figuratively) in comparison to the juicy sweetness of a bright-red Alabama strawberry during its springtime growing season.

Finally, the far-flung network that produces and delivers commodity food generates a substantial proportion of overall greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. The farther food travels from farm to distribution center and on to the store, the bigger the ecological impact. Eating food grown within 100-200 miles and sold in your community lowers your carbon footprint.

It may not be better for your health, but getting your fast food from Milo’s is better for the community. (Milo’s Hamburgers)

Support more local producers

This ties into the above goal. We all decide who roasts the coffee we drink, who brews our beer or kombucha, and where we shop for food. Buy local.

That includes seeking out supermarkets that go out of their way to promote local products — sausages, produce, eggs, sauces and condiments — like the Birmingham-area Piggly Wiggly stores. Farm stands like Andy’s and Murphree’s in Vestavia Hills specialize in farm-fresh food. Both pop-up and permanent farmers markets all over the state give local growers the customers they need to stay in business, especially while their restaurant clients continue to struggle. It’s a multifaceted win for our economy.

Keep more restaurant spending in the community

Consider spending most of your eating-out money at locally owned independent restaurants — fancy or down-home, barbecue or international. When eating fast food, consider choosing an Alabama-based chain like Milo’s or Jack’s, which keeps more of the money customers spend in this area than, say McDonald’s or Burger King.

Food that’s good for your health doesn’t have to be boring, as this salad from Blueroot demonstrates. (Blueroot)

Get more creative

A personal goal this year is to discover more cuisines from other countries, explore more regional cooking styles from this country and broaden the types of libations I consume. By incorporating diverse dishes into your routine, you’re not only broadening your taste horizons but you’re also learning about other cultures while doing so.

Eat healthier

Now here’s the challenge. Lifestyles change as we get older. We all need to eat more of this or drink less of that. But one of my culinary weaknesses is fatty, cured meats. In my default diet, bacon practically is its own food group. I’m not deluding myself and saying I’ll give up my porky indulgences, just cut back.

Incorporating more fresh vegetables, fruit and meatless proteins in any diet can help to offset (to a degree) less healthy choices. As the household cook, I know it’s more work to prepare several distinct vegetarian dishes than quick-firing a slab of meat and a modest side. But it’s worth the effort. My wife and I have big plans for after our children graduate from college and start their own households. A healthier diet is an investment in you.

This story originally appeared on the SoulGrown website.

Black Veterans Speak Out on PTSD and the Path to Recovery

By
Birmingham Times
-
0
For Black veterans, the impact of PTSD can be even greater and more difficult to get help for due to cultural stigma, and more. (Adobe Stock)

By Tashi McQueen | AFRO Staff Writer

For many military veterans, what they endure while serving their country is just half of the battle. The toll of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can appear in every part of life, including strained relationships, halted careers and a fading sense of identity.

For Black veterans, the impact can be even greater and more difficult to get help for due to cultural stigma, racial disparities in care and a shortage of personalized mental health support.

Dr. Diandra Poe is a dedicated mental health professional and veteran advocate committed to breaking stigma and improving access to care. Photo Credit: Courtesy photo
Dr. Diandra Poe is a dedicated mental health professional and veteran advocate committed to breaking stigma and improving access to care. (Courtesy photo)

“From a clinical standpoint, one of the biggest hurdles for military personnel dealing with PTSD is the pervasive stigma around mental health,” said Dr. Diandra Poe, a mental health professional and veteran advocate. “Even today, mental health challenges are often seen as a sign of weakness in a culture that prioritizes constant performance and endurance. For many service members, the idea of seeking help is intertwined with fear that it could impact their careers or label them as incapable.”

Untreated mental health conditions such as PTSD can create a serious ripple effect on military individuals and their families.

“Unaddressed PTSD can spill over into home life—affecting relationships, the ability to keep a job and ultimately the family’s stability,” Poe said. “It becomes a cycle of trying to push through alone until it’s no longer possible.”

A national health study by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) found that about 22 percent of Black veterans who were deployed had PTSD, compared to 14.1 percent of White veterans. Around 16 percent of Black veterans who were not deployed had PTSD, compared to 9.2 percent of their White counterparts.

“For Black service members, the military might have been a path out of challenging environments, and facing PTSD can feel like they’ve traded one set of struggles for another,” said Poe. “While they might technically have access to care through the VA or military services, actually utilizing that care can be a unique challenge due to cultural stigma and a lack of culturally competent support.”

James Harris, a U.S. Army veteran and community advocate, saw and lived these disparities, inspiring him to establish Men to Heal to help fill the gap.

“I emancipated myself at 16. Fast forward, I joined the Army for eight years, two deployments, one Iraq, one Afghanistan,” said Harris. “Going to therapy…there was a disconnect.”

James Harris is a U.S. Army veteran and founder of Men to Heal, a movement devoted to helping others overcome trauma through culturally informed mental health care and community support. Photo Credit: Courtesy photo
James Harris is a U.S. Army veteran and founder of Men to Heal, a movement devoted to helping others overcome trauma. (Courtesy photo)

Harris said from his time in therapy as a child and a veteran, he did not feel like the therapists adequately understand what he went through and therefore could not truly help him.

“Since I had those experiences—in addition to the book knowledge, in addition to the case studies, in addition to the license—I thought I could provide greater assistance to veterans, as well as people who look like me, and who have traveled this road,” said Harris.

Through Men to Heal, a movement he started to offer counseling for veterans, youth, families, and couples, Harris does the work of giving back. Through the movement, Harris operates a wellness center in Richmond, Va., providing financial resources, outpatient therapy, and yoga.

Harris said veterans often come home feeling isolated and unable to be understood by the people in their lives.

“You feel like you’re the only person that’s been through it or don’t have anybody who can relate to your experience besides the people that you deployed with,” Harris said.

To better support veterans upon their return home, especially those diagnosed with PTSD, Harris said families and communities can best help by making sure to include them in various activities.

“Avoidance or isolation is no good, so we want to try to involve them as much as possible,” said Harris. “The family should also understand that veterans are oftentimes on alert or have heightened senses. They’re looking for threats; they want to position themselves so that they can see exits and take care of situations.”

Harris emphasized that having patience is key. Veterans can also benefit from widespread access to culturally informed care and a dismantling of stigmas both in the military and the community around mental health.

Veterans do have options for receiving care.

“If you would feel more comfortable with a provider of the same race, religion, or cultural background, share your preference with VA. When you start seeing a new provider, ask about their experience treating Veterans of color or Veterans with similar religious or cultural backgrounds,” say VA officials, in resources that speak directly to veterans on race, culture, and PTSD.

“Don’t hesitate to bring up issues related to race with your provider. Remember, your conversations with your provider are confidential. If it turns out your provider doesn’t have the experience to meet your needs, or you don’t feel it’s a supportive match, you can ask to switch to someone else.”

1...262728...1,736Page 27 of 1,736
©