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After Vitriolic Mayor’s Race, Juandalynn Givan Speaks: ‘Birmingham Not Ready for a Woman to Lead’

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Birmingham Times
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Mayoral candidate Juandalynn Givan gives her remarks after losing the election to incumbent Randall Woodfin at the 4 Seasons Sports Bar & Grill. ( Reginald Allen, For The Birmingham Times.)

By Je’Don Holloway Talley | For The Birmingham Times

State Rep. Juandalynn Givan, who finished a distant third in Tuesday’s Birmingham mayor’s race, ended her campaign the way she began it: Firing on all cylinders.

The mayoral hopeful did not address her supporters during a Watch Party at the 4 Seasons Sports Bar & Grill on Graymont Ave. and by nine o’clock most had left anyway except for a few loyalists, but when approached by a Birmingham Times reporter in the restaurant’s back room the candidate did not hold back.

“I’ve said this time and time again, if the people of Birmingham like what they have, at the end of the day, on August 26th, they will keep it,” she told The Birmingham Times. “I believe in democracy, and I believe that democracy spoke. And the vote said that the people of Birmingham liked what they had.

“So, with that being said, I also leave the citizens of Birmingham with this: It is a clear indication that the city of Birmingham does not have a belief that a woman can lead this city. And I think that’s the thing that bothers me the most … I think that’s the takeaway.”

“And I think it’s very obvious,” she continued. “The [crime] numbers are almost similar to what they were four years ago with a crime rate that is [number] two or three in the country, nearly 1,000 people dead, potholes in the streets, brush, litter, debris, and overgrown lots that have not been repaired, restored, or fixed in eight years.”

“So what do you think is going to change in the next four [years]? But the people have spoken. And with that being said, I’ve done what I needed to do. My job and task was to tell the world and I think I did a good job of that.”

According to unofficial results, incumbent Randall Woodfin won his third term on Tuesday with 24,559 votes, or 74.87 percent; Jefferson County Commissioner Lashunda Scales finished second with 4,781 votes, or 14.5 percent and Givan finished third with 1,395 votes for 4.2 percent.

One of her biggest challenges during the campaign was not being accepted by other women, Givan said.

“The women of Birmingham were atrocious. I’m just going to say it. There’s just no way around it,” she said. “I went to a precinct [Tuesday] afternoon, and this was another candidate’s person, … and she said that working the precinct she felt as if almost she was traumatized because the reaction from the women was so mean and so nasty and so dismissive.”

“It was challenging connecting with the women, and the women are the predominant voters here in the city of Birmingham. And, unfortunately, the women are the biggest critics. And that’s just a realization, but it’s not just here. It’s in many [cities and states]. Unfortunately, sometimes with these types of elections, that’s just the mentality that we have.”

She continued, “this was a very interesting process trying to run citywide. I represent a district. But what I did see is that the women have no appetite, not only myself but other women said the same thing [as it pertains to] women leadership on this level. I think tonight was a clear indication here in the city of Birmingham that we are not ready for women leadership.”

“We saw it nationally with [Presidential candidate] Kamala Harris. Although we [female political leaders] fight the good fight, we tell the truth, we lay it out on the line, [they say] we’re either not smart enough, we don’t fit the bill, our looks are not the looks of those that should be in office, our dress is not the dress of those that should be in office, and unfortunately [they want to say] we’re not the brightest one in the room. So with that being said, the people spoke, and they liked what they liked.”

Givan said her campaign was based on “making it make sense” which was a message she hammered on her social media channels.

“I made it make sense that we have communities that are under siege . . .,” she said. “I made it make sense that the lots are overgrown, that the potholes are not filled. But also I made it make sense tonight, that my statement held true. If you like what you have, you keep it. And so with that, the people decided to keep it. And so we just move forward.”

Givan, who ran unsuccessfully for Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District 2024, Birmingham mayor in 2025, said she will run again for Alabama House of Representatives District 60, seeking a fifth term, in 2026.

“I show up when others are nowhere around,” she said. “I’m there to answer every call for help, and it has been like that for 15 years. So much so that a few years ago I wore myself down, I wore myself thin. But with that being said, I’m going to keep on pushing and keep on kicking.”

Birmingham Board of Ed Seats in Districts 2, 8 and 9 Headed to Oct. 7 Runoff

By
Birmingham Times
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All seats for Birmingham Board of Education (BOE) have been decided except for those in Districts 2, 8 and 9. (File)

The Birmingham Times

All seats for Birmingham Board of Education (BOE) have been decided except for those in Districts 2, 8 and 9.

Sherman Collins (District 1), Derrick Billups (District 4), and Leticia Watkins Harvell (District 6) all won their races comfortably on Tuesday. Mary Boehm (District 3), James Sullivan (District 5) and Walt “Big Walt” Wilson (District 7) were unopposed.

In the District 2 race, Terri Michal received 1,177 votes or 48 percent and incumbent Neonta Williams received 642 votes, or 26.2 percent.

In the District 8 race, Antwon Bernard Womack received 1,910 votes or 44.8 percent and Pamela Bass, received 1,865 or 43.8.

In District 9, Yamika Foy received 1,781 votes or 39 percent and Eric Hall received 1,625 or 35.6.

A candidate must receive 50.1 percent of the vote before being declared the winner. In races for which no candidate reaches that threshold, a runoff election will be held on October 7.

District 2

Michal is a former member of the Birmingham Board of Education, representing District 2 from 2017 until 2021. Elected in a closely contested race in 2017, she served a four-year term before being unseated by Williams in the 2021 election. During her tenure, Michal was an advocate for public education, opposing the expansion of charter schools in Birmingham and promoting increased investment in mental health resources, social-emotional learning, and workforce development programs within the school system.

A Birmingham native, Williams holds a bachelor’s degree in social work from Miles College and a master’s in public administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Her career includes service in the U.S. Army, roles in public health and corrections, and leadership positions in educational advocacy organizations such as the Black Alliance for Educational Options and Nashville Rise.

District 8

As a first-time candidate, Bass said she was both humbled and energized by the support she received. “The results affirm that our community is ready for new leadership that puts students first,” she said. “I’m grateful to the residents of District 8 who believed in my vision, and I look forward to continuing this important conversation with even more families and school administrators as we move toward the runoff.”

Over the next six weeks, Bass said her campaign will continue to listen and engage with the community “and I plan to double down on that grassroots approach,” she said. “I will remain visible in our neighborhoods, attend community meetings, knock on doors, and meet with parents, teachers, and students,” she said.

If elected Bass, a mother of Birmingham City Schools (BCS) graduates, said her priority is to “ensure that every child in BCS has access to a safe, supportive, and high-quality education. That means focusing on strengthening literacy and math outcomes, advocating for resources that support both students and teachers, and creating stronger partnerships between schools, families, and the community,” said Bass.

Womack said he was ecstatic by Tuesday’s results.

“We worked hard,” he said. “We reached out, we canvassed, but overall people already knew who I was because I have always been an advocate for public education. Being a neighborhood officer was definitely a big part of it,” said Womack, president of the Ensley Highlands Neighborhood Association.

Leading up to the October 7 runoff, the candidate said he plans “to remind people of where I come from, what I have presented before them and make sure that we keep our reading and our math scores up, make sure that we keep all of our district 8 schools off of the state’s failing list.”

Womack is a graduate of the Birmingham City Schools’ Dropout Recovery Program who went on to earn degrees in business administration from Columbia Southern University and now works as a freelance paralegal. If elected, he would become the first openly gay Black man to hold public office in Alabama.

District 9

Foy has a background in public housing and serves as an Assistant Asset Manager at the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District, where she interprets and administers HUD regulations and PHA policy.

Hall is a Birmingham native and graduate of Jackson-Olin High School, Hall served in the U.S. Army and Alabama National Guard, including deployment during Operation Enduring Freedom. He serves as an associate minister at Peace Missionary Baptist Church and has held roles such as outreach director for the Alabama Voter’s Coalition and community liaison for the Birmingham City Council. He is co-founder of the Black Lives Matter Birmingham chapter.

PEOPLE, PLACES & THINGS

By
Birmingham Times
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Oak Mountain State Park has water activities that include cable wake boarding, marina rentals to enjoy the park’s three lakes, an inflatable aquapark obstacle course and there is sand all over the place if you prefer. (Provided)

By Gwen DeRu | The Birmingham Times

ENJOY THE OUTDOORS AND THE WEATHER!!!

HAPPY LABOR DAY WEEKEND!!!

TODAY, AUGUST 28…

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

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

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

**FREE – SUBCARRIER: UNRELEASHED & B-SIDES at Saturn.

**CHRIS SIMMONS + KYLE KIMBRELL at The Nick.

**THAT’S MY JAM THURSDAYS KARAOKE MINGLE, each week with Karaoke at 8 p.m., Spin to Win ‘til 9 p.m. and Happy Hour ‘til 9 p.m. with Sounds by DJ SLUGGA and hosted by JIRUS HORTON at Tee’s on 2nd.  FREE Entry all night.

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

**JOSE CARR EVERY THURSDAY, 5-7 p.m. at the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame, at 1631 4th Avenue North.

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

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

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

**FILM at Sidewalk Film.

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

FRIDAY, AUGUST 29…

IT IS FRIDAY…the weekend starts…

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

**DIRTY CRUMBURNS with CLEMENTINE & MUSCLE at The Nick.

**(FREE) POP PLANET: UTOPIA with JOSIE DAISY at Saturn.

**WILLA MAE w/MOOD ROOM at the Upstairs at Avondale Brewing Co.

**THE FIXX at Iron City.

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

SATURDAY, AUGUST 30…

**(FREE) ELETRIC FUNERAL: TRIBUTE TO OZZY OSBOURNE at Saturn.

**ECHO PILOT with GASLIGHT FIASCO at the Nick.

**LATINOS CON ONDA presents 3BALLMTY at Iron City.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 31…

**SINGO BINGO EVERY SUNDAY, 1 p.m. at Cahaba Brewing Company.

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

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

**THE RANSOME BROTHERS at The Nick.

**LATE NIGHT AT THE NICK – at The Nick.

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

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

**THE STOLEN FACES – 10th ANNIVERSARY LABOR DAY SUNDAY SHOW at Avondale Brewing Co.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1…

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

**BIRMINGHAM BANDSTAND at The Nick.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2…

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

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

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

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

**SUPERSTAR KARAOKE LATE NIGHT TUESDAYS at The Nick.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3…

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

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

**WEDNESDAY OPEN DECK with SUNDROP at The Nick.

**SATURN’S COSMIC KARAOKE at Saturn.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4…

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

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

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

**LOW TICKET WARNING: DURAND BERNARR with LADY STOUT at Saturn.

**Q DOT & JAXXXON + FRIENDDS at The Nick.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5….

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

**GRAVEHUFFER AND DROOD at The Nick.

**JAMES MCMURTRY with BETTYSOO at Saturn.

**COLORS WORLDWIDE presents: R&B ONLY LIVE at Iron City.

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

**TALLADEGA SUPERSPEEDWAY 2026 RACES – The Superspeedway has announced its 2026 Schedule. The Spring Race is the NASCAR Cup Series and the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series on April 25-26, 2026 weekend. The Playoff action will be three NASCAR national series during the Playoffs Round of 8 in the Fall on October 23-25, 2026 weekend.  Talladega will be a part of the trio of races (Phoenix Raceway, Talladega Superspeedway and Martinsville Speedway) that will cut the field of eight title hopefuls to the Championship 4 for the Cup Series, O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. The four drivers that make it through the gauntlet will have a chance to race for the 2026 crown at Homestead-Miami Speedway.  BREAKING IT DOWN: SPRING RACES are the weekend of APRIL 25-26 – SATURDAY RACE (April 25) is the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Love’s Ag-Pro 300. SUNDAY RACE (April 26) is the NASCAR Cup Series Jack Kink’s 500.  FALL RACES are the Weekend of OCTOBER 23-25 – FRIDAY RACE (October 2) is the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Love’s RV Stop 225. SATURDAY RACE (October 24) is the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Race and SUNDAY RACE (October 25) is the NASCAR Cup Series YellaWood 500.

**LAST OF THE 2025 RACES AT TALLADEGA SUPERSPEEDWAY…Fans can still catch some action in 2025 the weekend of October 17- 19. FRIDAY RACE is the CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Love’s RV Stop 225. SATURDAY RACE is the NASCAR Xfinity Series United Rentals 250. SUNDAY RACE is the YellaWood 500.

FOR LABOR DAY WEEKEND FUN… LAUGHTER, FOOTBALL AND MUSIC…

Still looking for a LABOR DAY WEEKEND ESCAPE here is a little something for you. There are sporting events, food festivals, concerts and something to do outdoors.  CHECK THEM OUT!!!

The 1st ANNUAL LABOR DAY CLASSIC includes comedy, football and BBQ:

**FRIDAY – WEEK ZERO CLASSIC COMEDY JAM featuring BILL BELLAMY, hosted by NEPHEW TOMMY with Special Guest MS. VEE at the Historic Boutwell Auditorium.

**SATURDAY – FOOTBALL – CLARK ATLANTA UNIVERSITY vs VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY AND FORT VALLEY STATE UNIVERSITY vs UNIVERSITY of WEST ALABAMA at Legion Field.

**SATURDAY – BBQ FESTIVAL at Legion Field with live music and food.

Then, there is the Tribute to Luther Vandross and a Labor Day Show…

**SUNDAY – LABOR DAY CONCERT – ONE NIGHT ONLY – A TRIBUTE TO LUTHER VANDROSS featuring JAY LAMBERT & THE BYRON THOMAS COLLECTIVE, 7 p.m. at the Birmingham Museum of Art.

**SUNDAY – THE STOLEN FACES – 10TH ANNIVERSARY LABOR DAY SUNDAY SHOW at Avondale Brewing Co.

FOR OUTDOORS LOVERS…Looking for something to do…

Alabama has lakeside and oceanside beaches, campgrounds, beautiful vistas and great hiking trails.  Check these out…

 BEACHES FOR THAT LAST SUMMER SWIM AND A BIT OF RELAXATION…

**LAKE GUNTERSVILLE STATE PARK not only has beaches but there is the Screaming Eagle Zipline, an 18-hole golf course hiking trails and 6,000 acres of natural space located along the banks of the Tennessee River in northeastern Alabama.  It is home to the largest lake in the state of Alabama.

**OAK MOUNTAIN STATE PARK has water activities that include cable wake boarding, marina rentals to enjoy the park’s three lakes, an inflatable aquapark obstacle course and there is sand all over the place if you prefer. The beaches are Double Oak Lake (with a concession stand) and Beaver Lake that has restrooms on both beach. There is also hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Campgrounds and cabins are available.

**GULF STATE PARK has the Gulf State Park Beach Pavilion, located six miles east of Highway 59 that leads to three miles of beachfront for your pleasure.  There are 6,000 acres and 28 miles of trails to explore while exploring the park.

**JOE WHEELER STATE PARK has the 69,700-acre Wheeler Lake that was created by the Tennessee River that flows through Joe Wheeler State Park.  You can enjoy playing in the sand or jumping in the river. You can even stay overnight at the Joe Wheeler Resort Lodge. 

WALKS IN THE PARKS AND FORESTS…Alabama has parks with trails that deliver challenges, solitude, waterfalls, mountains, with great scenery and so much more right in our own backyard.

Here are a few to make memories that you will cherish…

**SIPSEY WILDERNESS, BANKHEAD NATIONAL FOREST has trails with as many waterfalls. Some call it the ‘Land of a Thousand Waterfalls.”  There are trails such as Fall Creeks Falls and White Falls Trail. AND there is lots of history with the remnants of old homesteads hidden.

**OAK MOUNTAIN TRAILS is really part of a state park that connects to Alabama many landscapes.  There are over 40 miles of trials.  IT is a great place to hike with rolling hills, lakes and pine groves such as Lake Trail.  Fall is a great time to visit this trail with all of the great fall colors.

NOW, these next few are in the TALLADEGA NATIONAL FOREST with plenty of what hikers like. Here they are:

**PINHOTI TRAIL in the forest is connected to the Appalachian Trail system with more that 170 miles through Alabama. There are hardwood forests, vistas, and ridgelines that wind throughout.

**CHINNABEE SILENT TRAIL is a 7.3 mile-trail that follows the Cheaha Creek with cascading waterfalls and swimming holes. There is Cheaha Falls and then there is Devil’s Den that is a waterfall carving its way through a rock gorge.  This is a great trail for families that love to hike and experienced hikers.

**CHEAHA STATE PARK has the highest point in Alabama at 2,407 feet.  There are some of the best views in the entire state of Alabama with views that can be seen for miles and vistas across the mountain range. Don’t miss checking the views out at sunset.

THINGS TO DO IN SEPTEMBER…

**NEXT THURSDAY – FEARLESS – REMEMBERING BIRMINGHAM VOTING RIGHTS CHAMPIONS is celebrating 60 years of the 1965 Voting Rights Act TODAY. The reception is 5 p.m. with an Artifact Display and 6 p.m. Panel of Experts/Community Conversation at the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute.  This event will reflect on the legacy of these champions and ongoing work to protect voting rights. Register at bcri.org/events. For more: Ballardhouseproject.org or BCRI.org.

FOR FOOD LOVERS…

**NEXT SATURDAY – BLACK FARMERS EXPO, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at 17th Street and 3rd Avenue North (Downtown) with Black owned food and merchandise producers with live music, food trucks and family fun.

**SEPTEMBER WE ARE ONE – An All White Celebration Honoring the Legacy of FRANKIE BEVERLY with YUNG VOKALZ AND THE MOVEMENT featuring JUBU SMITH plus CHOCOLATE IN THE THROWBACK MIX, 7-11 p.m., at the Tuxedo Ballroom.  There will be live music, food, cash bar and a cigar lounge.

AT ALYS STEPHENS CENTER…IN SEPTEMBER…

**SEPTEMBER 5 – “NIGHT OF THE ARTS” GALA starts the 2025-2026 Season with WILSON PHILLIPS headlining 5:30 p.m. This celebration of the arts raises fund for the Alys Stephens Center and UAB Abroms-Engel Institute for the Visual Arts, Art Play Community Education and Arts in Medicine. The Gala will showcase the best of each organization’s programming and culminate with a private concert by the vocal group.

**SEPTEBMER 11 – ARTIST DRAKE WHITE, country-soul artist performs, 7 p.m. at ASC.

**SEPTEMBER 28 – SUTTON FOSTER, Tony award-winning Broadway powerhouse is a dazzling talent who captivates audience with her magnetic stage presence and energy, her talent as a television star and an accomplished recording artist. She is called a triple threat. She performs 7 p.m. at ASC.  Get there early and see students from the UAB Department of Theatre and ArtPlay perform in the lobby before the show.

FOR OUR YOUTH…

**YOUTH INITIATIVES APPLICATION DEADLINE by the Jefferson County Alumnae Chapter (JCAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. has a DEADLINE OF SUNDAY by 11:59 p.m. The Delta Academy is for ages 11-14, grades 6-8. Delta G.E.M.S is for ages 14-18, grades 9-12 and E.M.B.O.D.I. is for ages 11-18, Grades 6-12.  Go to www.dstjcac.or/events to get more. SAVE THE DATE – SEPTEMBER 20 for the Kickoff Celebration. Event details will be emailed to the participants.  Any questions email: education@dstjcac.org.

**TUESDAY – SERVE AND SUPPORT SOCIAL, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Build UP and Youth Build UP.  This is a gathering for public servants to share resources and build community at 222 6th Avenue SW.

**APPLICATIONS FOR MAGIC CITY YOUTH BUILD to Earn while you learn. Must be 16-24 years old.  It is a 6 to 9-month program where you can earn you GED, get paid a biweekly stipend and get training in construction and healthcare careers.  For more contact youthbuild@habd.net or call 205-983-7550 to learn more.

**KIDS FEELINGS SURVEY – University of Alabama is sponsoring a research study and KIDS ARE NEEDED, ages 6-11. Families receive up to $600 for participating Involvement includes: 11 sessions at the clinic at UA, engaging activities for kids, kids earn prizes and cash payments for parents and kids.  The program is designed to help kids learn about other peoples’ feelings. Questions: Does your child show little concern for others’ feelings? School performance? or Rules and consequences?

Contact 205-737-4619 or fastclinicaltrial@ua.edu.

**SAFE HAVEN AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS – This program has hours Monday -Thursday, 3:30 – 8 p.m. and Friday, 3:30 – 6 p.m. for Grades K-8. It will offer reading initiatives, chess club, homework assistance, creative writing, tutoring and more. This program is offered at the following parks: Central Park, Ensley, Fountain Heights, Hawkins, Inglenook, Memorial, M.L. King. For more info, contact 205-254-2391 or www.birminghamal.gov/parks-and-recreation/

**YOUTH VOLLEYBALL is September 15 – October 27 for 3rd – 8th Grade games on Mondays at 6 p.m. Game location is Fountain Heights, 1101-15th Avenue North. Contact 205-335-0483 and 205-451-9895.

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

When Older May Not Be Wiser

By
Birmingham Times
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Let me ask a question: If you were honest, have you ever had an issue receiving direction, wisdom or guidance from someone because of their age – especially if they were younger than you?  I’ve thought to myself, at times, that since I’m older, I should be wiser than someone younger in certain areas.

But I’ll give you two examples that proved otherwise for me.

In the first, as a former television news anchor, we had had hired a producer who was a few years younger than me. I had an issue with that. My faulty logic was that since this person is younger, she would have less experience. She hasn’t been in the television news business as long as I have, therefore, she should not know as much, I told myself.

Here’s what I learned really quickly: As the producer, she was gifted to do her job with ease. She made it look easy and was unshakeable in the most stressful times. She always had her information in in a timely manner. She fact-checked our newscasts diligently.

My news peeps will appreciate the fact that she fact checked like a boss, meaning it didn’t matter if it was in the middle of the newscast. If the information was wrong, she would make the necessary edits immediately. She was dependable and had a great attitude, and thanks to her integrity, I hold those days as some of my best memories as a news anchor.

My second example, fast forward to today, a young lady I mentored back in the day (and remained friends with) really helped me through a tough life situation. Her compassion, sound advice and general concern for was so needed.

She, too, was a news producer on one of the newscasts I’d worked on in my earlier career. I believe it was orchestrated for her to talk to me in these recent years, for her to be that listening ear for me during my situation. She called to check on me and sometimes, she would just listen. Other times, she would ask me questions. In all that she did, she’d make sure I was doing OK.

After I thought about the deposit she made in my life in that season, I sent her a thank you note letting her know my sincere appreciation for her presence and compassion. And she quickly reminded me and said it was not only a pleasure for her, but it was her responsibility. She told me that she remembered the times that I took care of her when we were working together many years ago.

At times, I provided genuine support in the form of caring words, or even nourishing food for those long, tough hours we shared putting together a newscast. She then said, “It’s the least I can do for you.” Talk about a statement that was humbling and inspiring all in one.

Both of these ladies are younger than me, but both of them immensely blessed me at different times in my life. When it comes to wisdom, age truly isn’t a factor because you just never know where or from whom your next direction or insight will come. Be open and don’t allow pride to shut out a crucial step for you.

Blessings and remember, I am always cheering for you.

“Just be fair. We know the rabbit’s got the gun. If you’re going to get rid of Jones, get rid of everybody.”

By
Birmingham Times
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JEFFERSON COUNTY COMMISSIONER SHEILA TYSON AFTER THE FIRING OF BIRMINGHAM LOBBYIST GREG JONES BY MAJORITY OF CENTRAL ALABAMA WATER, FORMERLY THE BIRMINGHAM WATER WORKS; BIRMINGHAMTIMES.COM, AUGUST 21.

College Student Safety Tips

By
Birmingham Times
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College is often the first true experience of independent living for most youngsters. It is a time they make their own decisions about virtually everything from the simple to the complex. Like all decisions, there are consequences.

The impact of these consequences can be both good and some unfortunately not so good. The latter is why one should always equip themselves with tools to stay safe while enjoying their college life.

We will begin with some basic safety tips:

  • Keep the emergency telephone number for your University Police department stored in your phone and also written down in a convenient location.
  • Keep the emergency phone numbers near your phones. Program emergency contact numbers into your personal phone.
  • Learn the locations of the emergency telephone call stations on your campus and how to use them.
  • Ensure that you are subscribed to the campus mass notification system on your campus.
  • Participate in any campus emergency notification, whistle or other safety programs offered by the college/university.
  • Familiarize yourself with the layout of the campus. Survey the campus while classes are in session and after dark to see that academic buildings, walkways, facilities, and parking lots are adequately secured and well-lighted.
  • Plan the safest route when walking to your destination; choose well-lighted, busy pathways and streets. Avoid alleyways or “short cuts” through isolated areas.
  • Travel in groups and avoid going out alone at night.
  • Use your campus escort or shuttle services at night.
  • Tell a friend or roommate where you are going and your expected time to return.
  • Stay alert, walk near the curb and avoid shrubbery or other places of possible concealment.

These are a few basic campus safety tips to help you Keep an Eye on Safety while away in school. Other safety tips will be forthcoming in this new series on campus life and safety.

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin Elected to Third Term with 75% of the Vote

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Birmingham Times
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Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin addresses supporters with wife Kendra by his side during his Election Night Watch Party at Workplay. (Amarr Croskey, For The Birmingham Times)

By Barnett Wright | The Birmingham Times

Randall Woodfin, who spent election day knocking on doors up until the polls closed, saw his hard work pay off on Tuesday as he routed eight challengers with a landslide victory for a third consecutive term as Birmingham mayor.

According to unofficial results, Woodfin won with 24,559 votes, or 74.87 percent in a field that included Jefferson County Commissioner Lashunda Scales who finished second with 4,781 votes, or 14.5 percent. Scales also finished second to Woodfin in the 2021 mayoral election. No one else on Tuesday topped 5 percent and that included state Rep. Juandalynn Givan who finished with 1,395 votes for 4.2 percent.

With a third term secured, the incumbent mayor accomplished something that hasn’t happened in Birmingham since 1987 when Richard Arrington won his third term after being elected as the city’s first African American mayor in 1979.

Following the most decisive of his victories for the city’s highest elected office (59 percent in 2017, 64 percent in 2021, and 75 percent on Tuesday), Woodfin took to the stage during his Election Night Watch Party at downtown Birmingham’s WorkPlay. Surrounded by family and friends, he addressed a jubilant crowd of supporters and volunteers.

“From East Birmingham to West End, from North Birmingham to Avondale, you showed up and you showed out today,” he said. “That’s because you know that Birmingham deserves leadership that continues to put them first. … And to the great people of his city, whether you voted for me or not, I work for you and … want you to know I am ready keep moving the city forward with you.”

He added, “Eight years ago we said Birmingham deserves better and tonight we celebrate what we built together, and not just me as a person, but together. We led in the pandemic, we stood up for justice, we never stopped putting people first.”

Different Than Before

This victory was far different than the previous two for several reasons. Scales and Givan—who introduced “Randemic” to Birmingham’s political lexicon—proved to be the most tenacious of his opponents when compared to previous ones like William Bell in 2017 and 2021 and even Scales in 2021. Both were seasoned officeholders who used billboards, social media, yard signs, and neighborhood meetings unlike in any past Birmingham campaign.

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin addresses supporters during his Election Night Watch Party at Workplay. (Amarr Croskey, For The Birmingham Times)

The win was also different for Woodfin because this was the first time he came before supporters as a husband and a father which influenced his victory speech.

“Speaking from the heart, this work isn’t just political to me. This work is personal,” he said. “I’m not just a mayor, I’m a dad now. And I think every day about the future we are building for my daughter, I think about the future I’m building for Aubrey and Mason [his blended family] and any other kids in this building and our city tonight.

“I think about what kind of city they’ll grow up in. What kind of opportunities they will have. What kind of safety they will feel, what kind of pride they will carry in calling Birmingham home. I ran for mayor because I wanted to give back to the city that raised me, but I stay in this fight because of them and because of every young person in this city who deserves to dream big, live free and walk into a future full of promise.”

Education

Based on exit polling conducted by The Birmingham Times, much of Woodfin’s popularity came from ensuring that each Birmingham City Schools (BCS) graduate can attend college debt-free.

“I have a 12-year-old in Birmingham City Schools so I’m looking forward to my baby being a part of Birmingham Promise so she can go to college with a little money,” said Mallory Shank, who lives near the airport and voted for Woodfin. “I appreciate him paving our streets. I appreciate all the work Woodfin is doing for our city. But mainly [I appreciate] Birmingham Promise for my sweet baby to get her into college.”

Birmingham Promise provides up to four years of free tuition assistance for [BCS] graduates who attend public colleges and universities in Alabama. It also manages a paid internship program that allows high school seniors to build valuable work experience.

Supporters get selfie with Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin during his Election Night Watch Party at Workplay. (Amarr Croskey, For The Birmingham Times)

Sara McMillion, who lives in East Birmingham, said outside the Huffman precinct, “I voted for Woodfin. I like what’s he’s done for the city in his last two terms, Birmingham Promise being at the top of the list for me. The youth are the future and having that initiative in place is breaking barriers that many people in our community face. I’m excited to see what Birmingham will continue to grow into under Woodfin.”

While Woodfin acknowledged Birmingham Promise on Tuesday— “over 2,000 Birmingham Promise scholars sent to college tuition-free”—he also highlighted a 50 percent reduction in homicides this year, expanded investments in mental health, affordable housing, and revitalization of Birmingham’s neighborhoods.

What’s next for the mayor and the city?

“The next chapter is about finishing what we started and pushing further,” Woodfin said during his victory speech.  “What does that look like? We are going to keep taking illegal guns off the streets. We are going to keep investing in our children’s education, mental health, and safety. We are going to make housing more affordable, public transportation more reliable, and every corner of city more connected and cared for. Together we are building a Birmingham that works for everyone.”

Besides Woodfin, Scales, and Givan, other challengers finished the race as follows: Frank Woodson received 999 votes, or 3 percent; Brian Rice, 650 votes, or 1.98 percent; Kamau Afrika, 106, or 0.3 percent; Jerimy Littlepage, 189 votes, or 0.58 percent; David Russell 71 votes, or 0.22 percent; and Marilyn James-Johnson, 52 votes, or 0.16 percent.

After Scuffles at Football Opener, Birmingham City Schools Issues Guidelines for Sporting Events

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Birmingham Times
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The Birmingham Times

Birmingham City Schools on Tuesday announced new guidelines for attendance at sporting events to help create a “safe and enjoyable environment.”

Videos circulating on social media depict people running and fights being broken up during a Thursday night football game between Ramsay High School and Parker High School at Legion Field, which was part of the third annual “Stop the Violence” event.

The Birmingham Police Department confirmed there were no reported injuries and no further acts of violence after the situation was controlled.

BCS Superintendent Mark Sullivan Ed.D. on Tuesday issues a statement that read, “Safety is a priority in Birmingham City Schools. In recent months we’ve invested in hi-tech scanners as well as alert systems for our school employees. These new guidelines are part of our ongoing commitment to safety and security in our schools and facilities as well as our events.”

The guidelines include the following:

  • All children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire game.
  • The parent or guardian must have a valid photo identification.
  • All attendees are expected to follow the rules of the athletic facilities where the athletic event is being held.
  • Only clear bags are allowed, and all bags are subject to search.
  • Those who fail to follow the facility rules may be escorted from the facility.
  • Spectators are asked to remain seated in the stands during the game. Loitering or gathering of groups in the aisles, concourses, ramps, entrances, or exits is prohibited.
  • Smoking, including using electronic cigarettes or intoxicants, and/or possessing alcohol are not permitted.
  • No rough housing, running, fighting, use of profanity, or acting in a manner considered to be offensive, threatening, insulting, humiliating, embarrassing, disruptive, obscene, sexually explicit, gang-related, or violent will be allowed.
  • BCS students who violate the BCs Student Code of Conduct or create and unsafe environment or condition will be removed from the game without ticket reimbursement.

‘I Wanted to Begin Planning the Life We Had Dreamed and Prayed About’

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

LASHONDA AND JIMMIE JOHNSON JR.

Live: Bessemer

Married: April 12, 2008

Met: The two attended Pentecostal Lighthouse Church in Huntsville as children, and with Jimmie being five years older “she was literally a child to me back then… I was a teen,” Jimme said. However, in December 2006, Jimmie moved back to Huntsville after living in Birmingham for a few years and returned to Pentecostal Lighthouse Church. Lashonda, then 26, was now all grown up.

“Shonda was quiet,” said Jimmie. “She was the type that as soon as church was over she’d beeline for the door, and I was the opposite. I used to stay and talk and be one of the last ones to leave. But one Wednesday night after Bible study, Shonda asked me what I was doing [the upcoming weekend] and we started talking. She asked me for my number, and I must’ve asked 10 people for a pen,” he laughed. “And [at that moment], I remembered a dream I had had about her a year prior, and I knew [it was coming full circle].

“I had always had a crush on him, but being so much younger I kinda looked at him like a big brother… But I had had my first child [daughter, Azariah, then 1], and I was more mature and no longer saw him as a big brother [but rather] a man I would like to be with,” Lashonda laughed. “I had been watching him for a couple Sundays, and I saw he was raising [his 5-year-old son] as a single father and I could tell he was a good dad. And my daughter gravitated towards him… That night [after Bible study] I decided to make my move to see what happens.”

At that point, both Lashonda and Jimmie had small children. Jimmie had three children: Tayzha, then 8, Deanna, then 7, and DJ, then 5. The two exchanged numbers and set up their first date. Jimmie said he and Lashonda started talking on the phone and he learned that she was very different from other women he had dated.

First date: January 2007, at Ruby Tuesdays in Huntsville. “Being around Lashonda felt like home,” said Jimmie. “I could relax, I could be me, I could rest with her. It felt so natural, our conversations were very organic. I didn’t have to put on pretense or be somebody I wasn’t. It was very refreshing, and she was what I had been needing. And although she came through as just a flash in that dream, I realized that maybe it was more than my mind entertaining itself; maybe it was showing me something.

“So, on that first date, I laid all my cards out,” he said. “I knew she was going to be mine, so I wanted to tell her everything pertinent that I believed she needed to know. I told her my plans for the future, and secrets I had never told anyone else… I didn’t want there to be anything that could come between us because I knew she was going to be my wife.”

Lashonda remembered starting off nervous on the date, but Jimmie’s honesty put her at ease. “For him to express all of that let me know his character and who he was,” Lashonda said. “With us both having children, we had to do it that way. We had to lay it all out, and I appreciated him expressing all the things… …and spiritually speaking, I had had a dream about him too, so him sharing his dream was confirmation.”

Overall, the couple shared their hopes, dreams, reservations and past experiences and knew that they wanted to move forward with building something real.

Lashonda added that she ate whatever she wanted on the menu that night– “It wasn’t no little salad, I ate well,” she laughed. “I may have been nervous, but I wasn’t too nervous to eat!”

The turn: Lashonda and Jimmie said their exclusivity went without saying. “It was understood,” Phil said. “But I may have been the first one to recognize that this was it and we were going to get married. Shonda may have been a little apprehensive at first, but, I was sure.”

“Being a single mother, I had my reservations,” said Lashonda. “I came from a household where it was just me, my mom, and my sister, and I was very independent. …I had to tell Jimmie to give me a little room. He wanted to be on dates three-five times a week, he was smothering me. I loved it, but it was a bit much.”

“I was excited. I had found my lady and I’m the type that when something is good, why wait? Like, why don’t you want to be with me four days a week?” Jimmie laughed. “I just wanted to shower her with all of my attention and drink from the fountain of her love. But I understood. I was breaking into the ladies trio {her, her mom and sister], and over time I realized I could back up a little bit, and that she wasn’t going anywhere.”

Lashonda and Jimmie Johnson Jr. met as children, but reconnected in 2006. The couple married in 2008. (Provided)

The proposal: April 2007, at Big Springs Park in Huntsville. Lashonda remembers that it was early evening when Jimmie picked her up from her mother’s house. Jimmie had an elaborate plan with the help of coworkers.

“We got a bunch of flower pedals and candles, and at the park there’s this big flight of stairs that leads up to a gazebo, so I had candles lining both sides of the stairs.  [During setup] It was really windy that day and the candles kept blowing out, and before I left to go pick her up, I prayed at the top of the stairs. I said, ‘Lord, I’m proposing to Lashonda today and I need the wind to stop so these candles can stay lit. And the wind stopped immediately, and when I got back they were still lit,” Jimmie said. “We often took walks in that park and when we got to the stairs and she thought somebody was having a party, she didn’t think it was for her. So I said, ‘let’s go see what’s going on and she said, ‘we can’t mess with these people’s stuff.’

“But I led her to the top of the stairs and started talking,” Jimmie continued. “I gave a brief synopsis of our dating life and told her that when I think about my life and being an old man, she’s there. She’s my person, and I wanted to begin planning the life we had been dreaming and praying about. I got down on one knee and proposed, and she said ‘yes’.”

“I should’ve known something was up because he was acting so weird. Nervousness was out of the norm for him. And when he took me for a walk at that park, which we had done many times before, when he tried to lead me up those steps to mess up those folks stuff, I was hesitant,” Lashonda laughed. “But everything came together so beautifully. It was a surprise, and I was having so many different emotions because it was so surreal. I was like ‘am I really about to get married, is this real? Is he sure?’ I was overwhelmed and overjoyed, but he said he was my person, and I was his, so I said ‘yes’.”

The wedding: Pentecostal Lighthouse Church in Huntsville, officiated by its pastor, Bishop Johnny Burrell. Their colors were sage and orchid [a shade of purple].

Most memorable for the bride was the support they had on their wedding day. “It was such a warm, beautiful spring day, and I looked out the window and noticed a bunch of cars. We had invited people, but I didn’t expect so many people to come and support us on that day. I saw a lot of old faces and new faces, and that did my heart good to know there were so many people that supported our union,” Lashonda said.

Most memorable for the groom was also the support from loved ones. “I was sitting in the room for the groom, and I was looking out of the window and saw all the people and I said to one of my groomsmen, ‘Man, I don’t even know some of these people’. And to me, when people show up to your wedding, that says that they believe in your union and will be there to be an advocate for your marriage. It let me know that all the things Lashonda and I felt about what our marriage would be, other people were agreeing with us and came to support our union,” Jimmie said.

The honeymoon was in Miami, Florida. “My husband got a chance to meet my grandparents and the rest of my side of the family. That was awesome because some of them couldn’t come for the wedding,” Lashonda said.

“We had a good time enjoying each other’s company. And while we were at the beach, a guy came and sat a 75-pound boa constrictor on my shoulders because he wanted us to pay him to take a picture of me with it on my shoulders. I had to save face. I was terrified and had never been so scared in my life,” Jimmie said. “But I didn’t want my wife to think I was a pansy, so I stood strong, but told him, ‘No, go on and come and get it off my shoulders’,” he laughed.

Words of wisdom: “My take on marriage may not be for everybody, but by being a minister and a Christian has let me see the reflection of God in marriage. One relationship speaks to the other. How I love my wife reflects how Christ loved the church… Lean into your relationship with your spouse and grow your relationship with God and learn more about each other. Your spouse is the only relationship the Lord gives you to keep till you die.
And I know it’s cliche, but marriage is work. It takes intention, but it’s the most beautiful thing you’ll ever experience in your natural life if you put that work in. We see each other in our best moments and our worst moments. All life moments are made more beautiful when you have someone to share it with,” Jimmie said.

“Don’t forsake dating each other. Date. Date all the time. Take out the time to continue getting to know each other as you grow and evolve,” Lashonda said. “Pray with your spouse. It keeps you connected and shows your vulnerable side. And, feed off each other’s strengths and weaknesses. I appreciate that we can balance each other out, and we realize that those things make us a great couple.

Happily ever after: The Johnsons attend Kingdom Warriors Ministries in Bessemer where Jimmie serves as an associate minister, and Lashonda in the women’s ministry. They are a blended family with six children: Tayzha, 27, Deanna, 26, DJ, 24, Azariah, 20, and twins Sean and Kensley, 5, and three grandsons.

Lashonda, 45, is an army brat and was born in Germany, but spent her formative years in Huntsville, Ala. She attended Butler High School and Drake State Technical College in Huntsville, where she earned an LPN certification, as well as Calhoun Community College [Huntsville], where she earned an associate’s degree in nursing. Lashonda works as an RN for the Alabama Department of Public Health.

Jimmie, 49, is a West End native, and graduated from J.O. Johnson High School in Huntsville. He attended Alabama A&M University, where he studied communications, works for Amazon Distribution Warehouse in Bessemer, and is a licensed Realtor.

“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

2025 Taste of 4th Avenue Jazz Festival Energizes Downtown Birmingham

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Birmingham Times
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Jazz trumpeter Bo Berry of the Birmingham Heritage Band performs during the 22nd Annual Taste of 4th Avenue Jazz Festival. (Marika N. Johnson, For The Birmingham Times)

Marika N. Johnson | For The Birmingham Times 

The 22nd Annual Taste of 4th Avenue Jazz Festival lit up the historic Fourth Avenue Business District on Saturday with a lively celebration of music, culture and community. From 2 p.m. until 10 p.m. the downtown corridor between 16th and 18th Streets brimmed with the sounds of jazz and lively entertainment.

Tenor saxophonist Ronald Goodwin performs during the 22nd Annual Taste of 4th Avenue Jazz Festival. (Marika N. Johnson, For The Birmingham Times)

Performances by the Birmingham Heritage Band, tenor saxophonist Ronald Goodwin, Yarbrough & Company, Eric Essix, Hoover High Jazz Band, Dee Lucas among others delivered a rich mix of jazz and soulful melodies that kept the crowd moving and dancing in the streets well into the evening.

Festival goers enjoyed more than music. Local food vendors, retail booths, and community resource tables offered a variety of experiences throughout the day.

Presented by Urban Impact, Inc and Taste of 4th Ave, Inc the festival reinforced its roots in Birmingham’s historic district and its mission to uplift Black-owned businesses and local entrepreneurs by providing vital exposure and connection.

As the city continues to build on this annual tradition, the Taste of 4th Avenue Jazz Festival remains a highlight of Birmingham’s cultural calendar bringing together families, businesses, artists and jazz lovers alike.

Jazz songstress Nadine Smith. (Marika N. Johnson, For The Birmingham Times)
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