SHINING THE LIGHT ON SELMA AND DALLAS COUNTY, ALABAMA July 25, 2019 | Volume 4, Issue 26
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City leaders: Selma youth sports will continue BY CINDY FISHER Selma Sun Staff
After weeks of confusion over the future of Selma’s city youth sports leagues due to lack of funding, the city’s top leaders say the Parks and Recreation Department is operational and youth sports will continue. Fall football registration is expected to open on schedule, Mayor Darrio Melton told the Selma Sun. “It will be the same way it has always been,” he said. City Council President Corey Bowie told the Selma Sun the department is not closed, and football season will continue. This comes despite the City Council voting to defund the Parks and Recreation director position in late June and
reports that the assistant directors had been moved to the Public Works department. Melton said the Parks and Recreation director, Sean VanDiver, has not been terminated and that the council’s vote to defund VanDiver’s position was not official because only the mayor has the power to appoint and remove department directors. “The council can’t take away the mayor’s appointment power,” he said, adding, “you can’t fire someone without due process.” When the future of youth sports came into question after the defunding vote, volunteers from across Dallas County offered to keep it alive. An outpouring of support on social media brought volunteers together, saying they will
help coach or repair facilities to make sure Selma’s kids get to play sports. Others suggested forming a nonprofit that would run the league. Morgan Academy’s Athletic Director and head football coach Josh Thacker was one of those avid volunteers, saying kids who grow up in city leagues are better prepared to play at the higher level, like high school and college. Recreation teams also build community, he said. Thacker suggested rallying the city of Selma behind city recreational sports, much like the community did to cut grass at the cemeteries after city workers were laid off late last year. Those workers have not returned to work due to budget constraints.
City officials say Selma’s youth football league should play this fall, despite confusion over funding and recreation department leadership.
The Bridge Academy Selma offers adults another path to achieve a high school diploma BY FRED GUARINO Selma Sun Staff
Under the umbrella of The Gospel Tabernacle Church in Selma, The Bridge Academy Selma is helping to impact the Selma/Dallas County dropout rate by giving people an opportunity to earn a high school diploma through an accredited education program from home. The online school was founded by Pastor John Grayson of the Gospel Tabernacle Church and his wife Dr. C. C. “Chinester” Grayson and is taught by Dean of Instruction Cynthia Hobbs. The Graysons may be familiar to Selma residents as the owners and operators of the Walton Theater. They also operate a food drive that feeds about 3,000 families per month and a restaurant that feeds children 600 to 1,000 meals a day for free. C.C. said her husband had a dream: “How can we help the educational dropout rates here in Selma/Dallas County.” “We found out that a lot of kids who drop out of school don’t go on and finish their high school diploma,” she said. When they learned Hobbs from nearby Jones, Ala., was already working tutoring people who were working on their high school diplomas, “we managed to merge what she was doing with our vision to come up with The Bridge Academy.” Hobbs explained that she had been teaching the GED program at a community college but decided to tutor on her own in her own way. And she said
Melvin and Idell Parker are the elderly couple, ages 77 and 71, from Jones, Ala., who recently graduated from The Bridge Academy Selma with high school diplomas. He said it meant a lot to him because he’s been a pastor for 49 years. His wife said she wanted her diploma before she died. Photo submitted.
the success rate of her students went up. She explained that in programs like those offered at a community college, students must take a TABE (The Adult Basic Education Test) and move up through it before they can even start the GED program. She said many get frustrated and quit. She also said the GED classes were offered 8 a.m. until 12 p.m. or 12 p.m. - 3 p.m. every day, which was not convenient for someone with children. “What we The Bridge Academy Selma provide is one-on-tutoring,” Grayson said. She said students take the programs on line so they don’t have leave their babies or leave a job. She said The Bridge Academy Selma uses the KET (Kentucky Education Television) Program, which is an accredited program approved by the Alabama State Department of Education. Hobbs said the program covers all 274 objectives Alabama high school graduates must meet. The final exam is taken online, face-to-face with the students via a camera. The difference, according to Hobbs, is that The Bridge Academy Selma offers its students a Home School Diploma. It has the same curriculum as a GED but it can be done at home. Home schools have to have a church to cover them, and the Gospel Tabernacle Church in Selma provides that cover for The Bridge Academy Selma. Grayson said The Bridge Academy Selma opened in June of 2017, and the first graduation of the program was May of 2018 at the Family Guidance Center in Montgomery. She said that
Jessica Brown, 29, of Selma, who works at Dominos, said achieving the diploma “meant so much to me because I can accomplish what I thought I couldn’t accomplish.” Photo by Fred Guarino
Coffee Shoppe named one of state’s Retailers of the Year BY BRAD FISHER Selma Sun Staff
The 2019 Graduating Class of The Bridge Academy Selma. Photo submitted. was because most of the students were from Montgomery, Jefferson, Autauga, Elmore or Lowndes counties. This year she said the graduation was held at the Walton Theater in Selma on May 28 with 71 people who completed the program. Included in the graduating class was a couple, ages 77 and 71, from nearby Jones, Ala. Grayson said The Bridge Academy Selma Home School transcripts and diplomas are welcome in all public colleges in Alabama and beyond. But she and Hobbs said most of their students go to Trenholm State Community College. Others, they said, attend Stillman, Wallace, AUM and Coastal. Hobbs said The Bridge Academy currently has 93 students enrolled in college. And she said their students get ACT scores that range from 17 to 21. With the KET Program, she said, the students “are truly college ready.” Grayson said student who come to them through the Family Guidance Center in Montgomery only have to pay for their diploma and cap and gown. But there is a $290 fee for the program for all students that covers them from start to finish, including the KET program, the four exams required, the diploma and cap and gown. Grayson and Hobbs said they are hoping that sponsors will step forward to buy seats for the KET program license required for each student and which costs $69 each. About 60 students are currently enrolled with the next graduation in May of 2020. “The greatest thing about this (The Bridge Academy) is it unfreezes people,” Hobbs said.
She said there was woman who was disabled with three children who will now start school at Wallace. And Grayson said, “That’s our goal: to help people to move on.” C.C. Grayson has a master’s in counseling from Capella and doctorate degrees in transformational counseling and ministry. John Grayson completed his master’s in pastoral counseling. Hobbs has a bachelor of arts degree from Troy State and taught for three years. John said his church serves the community. Melvin and Idell Parker are the elderly couple who recently graduated. He said it meant a lot to him because he’s been a pastor for 49 years. His wife said she wanted her diploma before she died. Jessica Brown, 29, of Selma, who works at Dominos, said of the program, “It meant so much to me because I can accomplish what I thought I couldn’t accomplish. I wanted to go into criminal justice, but I thought I could never do it.” She wants to be police officer. Lorenza Hall, 20, of Tuskegee said of the program, “I like it because I needed it to do what I want to do. See, I wanted to be a truck driver, and I had to have a diploma.” He said he is filling out an application for a job as a truck driver now. Anyone can make a donation to help sponsor students to Gospel Tabernacle/The Bridge Academy Selma, P.O. Box 892, 36701 or phone 334-872-0888 and dedicate their donation for the school. The Bridge Academy Selma is an adult education program for students ages 17 and older.
A steaming cup of congratulations to Jacqueline T. Smith, owner and operator of The Coffee Shoppe in Selma. The Coffee Shoppe is among this year’s 14 Alabama Retailer of the Year winners. She has won either the gold, silver or bronze award in her annual sales category. Smith and the other Retailers of the Year will be honored Oct. 22 at the annual Alabama Retail Day celebration in Birmingham. The exact level of her award will not be revealed until that date.
The Alabama Retailer of the Year awards program, started in 1999, honors outstanding retailers who have demonstrated growth, innovation and a commitment to their respective communities. Winners are chosen by an independent judging panel, consisting of representatives from chambers of commerce, media, retail developers, academia and past winners. Selma’s most recent winner was Dave’s Market in 2017, when owner David Oliver was named bronze Retailer of the Year in the Annual Sales $5 Million to $20 Million category that year.
Jackie Smith, owner of the Coffee Shoppe.
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July 25, 2019
COMMUNITY
SELMA SUN
Pepsi marks 65 years of operations in Selma
Cheyenne Bradford, vice president and director of operations of Pepsi in Selma, shows off photos of the company's historic moments over the past 65 years in the city. He started out as a salesman on a route truck and will have 41 years with the company this September. Photo by Fred Guarino. A 1954 opening celebration advertisement dated July 14, 1954. BY FRED GUARINO The Selma Sun
Pepsi celebrated 65 years of operations in Selma on Wednesday, July 17 with free hot dogs, soft drinks, games and a live broadcast by Dixie Country. Cheyenne Bradford, vice president and director of operations, showed off photos of the company’s historic moments in Selma. He said he will have 41 years with the company this September. And fighting to choke back his emotions, he said the 65th anniversary celebration of the company was “a big day.” “It’s been great,” Bradford said. Bradford said he started out with the company at age 20 as a salesman on a route truck. Over the past 41 years he has done a bit of everything with Pepsi. Sales Manager Mark McElhaney, Controller Sylvia
Smith and Supervisor Robert Massey also attended the event. Bradford said the Selma Pepsi operation boasts several employees who have more than 30 years of service with the company. “We do a lot of things for the community,” Bradford said. “We’re involved in just about everything that goes on. And that’s a good thing. We’re involved with all the schools.” The building at 1400 West Highland Ave. was constructed in 1954 and was outfitted with mixing and bottling equipment as well as a warehouse and office space. The company operated as a bottling plant until the late 1970s and now serves as a distribution center. Bradford explained that Pepsi in Selma was started by Leon Seymour along with his partner Bob Hagler. The plant continued to operate under the leadership of Leon Seymour’s
son, John Seymour, and now under John’s son, Gordon Seymour. At the ceremony, Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Sheryl Smedley asked everyone on hand to join her in “thanking the third Pepsi generation for their generosity and for believing in our community.” Bradford showed the Selma Sun an opening celebration invitation to the public dated July 14, 1954 announcing “A Brand New Home” for the Pepsi plant in Selma. The invitation shows that entertainment was provided by “The Famous Blue Rhythm Boys.” And it invites to the public to “come and visit our new plant located on Highway 80 West, 1/2 mile past Summerfield Road intersection. See a model of modern, industrial efficiency in action … Come and have a Pepsi with us!”
Brian Robitaille and Jordan Dailey enjoy hot dogs and Pepsi products as the company celebrates 65 years of operations in Selma. Photo by Fred Guarino.
Zion, Zachary and Zariah Rascoe enjoy Pepsi soft drinks as part of Pepsi’s 65th anniversary of operations in Selma. Photo by Fred Guarino.
With lots of Pepsi products and memorabilia behind them are from left, Mark McElhaney, sales manager, Robert Massey, supervisor, and Cheyenne Bradford, vice president and director of operations, for Pepsi in Selma. They were on hand Wednesday, July 17 to mark the company’s 65 years of operations in Selma. Photo by Fred Guarino.
Annette Lassiter enjoys a bean bag toss game as Pepsi celebrated 65 years of operation in Selma on Wednesday, July 17. There were games, hot dogs and a live broadcast by Dixie Country. Photo by Fred Guarino.
SELMA SUN
July 25, 2019
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NEWS Steak Pit reopening after being closed for two years BY CINDY FISHER Selma Sun Staff
The Steak Pit restaurant that operated as a meat-and-three buffet in Selma for 44 years is about to reopen. The owners of the Steak Pit are completing renovations and hiring servers to reopen the restaurant on Highland Avenue in the next few weeks. That includes the Pancake House portion of the restaurant. Ed and Sandra Glover bought the Steak Pit in 2000
but closed it after Ed had a bad car accident when leaving the restaurant on the night of Oct. 6, 2017. Ed Glover said he is nearly recovered and ready to bring back the “best steak in Selma” along with the hot bar buffet at lunch and full dinner menu. The real estate investor turned restauranteur says it’s a good time to come back because Selma needs more eateries. “We need more places to eat,” he said, listing his restaurant’s options of seafood, steak
and breakfast staples like grits and eggs. “If you eat here, you know it’s going to be good.” The Glovers have brought back the cook, Gracie Dower, and are hiring for more help. Since starting the renovations, the restaurant has had some setbacks, including five or six break-ins where thieves took the dishes, silverware, freezers, TVs. The restaurant now has a security system and is ready to open in the next few weeks, he said.
The Steak Pit has been in Selma for 44 years, but most recently was closed for two years.
Owner Ed Glover said he has recovered from the car accident that caused him to close the Steak Pit in 2017 and is ready to run the restaurant again with his wife, Sandra.
Narrative for Selma developed Selma Redevelopment Authority continues work to move Selma forward BY FRED GUARINO Selma Sun Staff
The Selma Redevelopment Authority continues work to move Selma forward with a strategic plan, a narrative for the city and promotion of the city‘s Opportunity Zone. An update on where things stand toward achieving those goals was presented at a meeting of the SRA Board of Directors at Eyemax Vision Center on July 18. Board members Martha Lockett, Billy Young, Clint Wilkerson and Board Chairwoman Juanda Maxwell were in attendance. Maxwell reported the SRA can pay routine office expenses out of Education Foundation of America funds. However, she said, prior to the hiring of any new staff, including an executive director, EFA has asked the
SRA to undertake the process of strategic planning to set a clear direction. She said strategic planning consultant Autumn Foster Sanders of Quire in Birmingham will help “so that when we do hire someone, they will have better direction.” Maxwell reported that she attended a meeting regarding the Cori Project at which it was “unofficially” determined that “Selma does need a digital economy.” Wilkerson asked if that meant SRA would get a grant, but Maxwell replied, “It means it opens us up to work with hopefully the city and hoping that we will get a grant later on to help facilitate that.” She explained, however, the SRA had a grant just to determine if Selma needed a digital economy or not. By way of explanation, the SRA received a grant from the Center on Rural Innovation to assess the viability of a digital
economy based on digital computing technologies forthcoming in Selma. Maxwell said the SRA will have to see if it can find other money. But, she said, the mayor and City Council are “the ones who should try to find the wherewithal to get the digital economy.” Maxwell and board member Lockett said that a meeting with Design Alabama and a marketing consultant at marked the beginning of developing a marketing strategy for Selma, including “developing a narrative for Selma.” The meeting was also attended by Selma Mayor Darrio Melton, the city’s Department of Planning and Development director and the mayor’s executive assistant, according to Maxwell. The SRA received a grant from Design Alabama to bring architects, graphic designers
Copperwing Design LLC in Montgomery recently worked with the Selma Redevelopment Authority to develop a narrative of what they thought Selma looks like and what it should look like.
This is what they developed: “Selma is a historically significant place of pilgrimage and equality and democracy. As the bridge to the future, we are becoming the technology center of the Black Belt with a strong and growing economy. Located in Central Alabama, we are accessible to major transportation hubs. Our river offers a wonderful recreational opportunity for recreation and commerce alike. We are a supportive environment for entrepreneurship. We offer affordable and friendly neighborhoods where Southern hospitality is alive and well. Selma is unique in that it inspires a calling for the greater good locally and globally. Selma is a place that changes you.” Maxwell said the narrative not only speaks about the past in that Selma is a “historically significant, wonderful place,” but she said it speaks of the fact that “we also are stuck, and we also need to move forward.” She said it asks, “How do we move forward in unity?” Board Chairman Juanda Maxwell said the mayor is “on board” with the narrative. What do you think? Email your thoughts to news@selmasun.com.
Selma Redevelopment Board members get an update on the status of various projects. From left around the table are Board members Martha Lockett, Clint Wilkerson, Chairman Juanda Maxwell and Board member Billy Young. The SRA held its regular monthly meeting July 18 at Eyemax Vision Center. Photo by Fred Guarino. and landscape architects to propose ideas to enhance the downtown corridor. Lockett said at Thursday’s SRA meeting that Design Alabama will be coming to Selma at the end of August on Thursday, Friday and Saturday for open community meetings and planning. She said the focus will be to come up with a project that can be accomplished “so that there is something to be seen with it.” Maxwell explained that Design Alabama will take input to find out “what we would like the downtown area to look like to make it neat and pretty. Painting. Street scapes. The beautification of downtown.” Maxwell also reported at Thursday’s meeting that she will forward a list of city-owned properties to Young and Wilkerson of the SRA’s Opportunity Zone
Committee. The board members are to get in touch with Alex Flachsbart, president and CEO of Opportunity Alabama, about bringing investors for the zone. Regarding a request by Rhaglan Construction to use the SRA as a conduit to purchase equipment and supplies
for the St. James Hotel renovation project, Maxwell said she is still awaiting word from SRA’s attorney. “We can’t move forward or do anything until we have a better understanding of what is needed from us and what we can do,” Maxwell said.
Selma Redevelopment Authority Board member Clint Wilkerson discusses the status of SRA projects with SRA Board Chairman Juanda Maxwell. The SRA held its regular monthly meeting July 18 at Eyemax Vision Center. Photo by Fred Guarino.
City of Selma to provide free internet to housing complexes, Housing Authority to give kids tablets as part of digital initiative SELMA SUN STAFF The City of Selma has announced that free broadband internet and tablets will be provided to the Selma Housing Authority as part of what has been dubbed "Smart City Initiative" by Mayor Darrio Melton. Starting on Aug. 1, free Wifi service will be given to George Washington Carver Homes, one of Selma's public housing facilities, in cooperation with Selma Housing Authority. The speed of internet service will
reach up to one gigabit per second. The new service is the first phase of a program called Inspire Connect, which aims to deliver free or low-cost broadband services to low-income households. The Selma Housing Authority provides low-cost housing to over 2,000 people, and Melton said in a statement he wants to offer the new service to every one of them. “Our hope is to add every public housing complex within the city,” Melton added. Kennard Randolph, Executive Director of Selma Housing
Authority, said he is very excited about Inspire Connect. “As the City of Selma roll out high speed Wi-Fi to the housing authority residents,” Randolph said, “I am excited for the children and families who will benefit from this much needed utility. Such access allows our children to compete with students throughout the world.” Additionally, the city and housing authority will also provide tablets to residents in the complex ages 11 to 18. The Housing Authority purchased the tablets.
WHEN YOU NEED TO COOL THINGS OFF AT HOME Publisher:
Contributors:
Cindy Fisher
Todd Prater Chico Cleveland Nathan Prewett
Specializing in Residential and Commercial Installation
Fred Guarino Copyright 2019. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or part other than for personal use is prohibited without the express written consent of the publisher Kingfisher Media LLC The Selma Sun is a news source for the community of Selma and Dallas County, Alabama. Information gathered for coverage of Selma-Dallas County is from sources that are considered reliable, but accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Issues with accuracy or errors should be brought to the attention of the publisher at publisher@selmasun.com. Email news tips to news@selmasun.com The Selma Sun (USPS) is published weekly for $26 per year by Kingfisher Media, LLC, 711 Alabama Avenue, Selma, AL 36701. Periodicals postage (USPS #21110) at Selma, Alabama. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Selma Sun, PO Box 476, Selma, AL 36702-0476. Published by: Kingfisher Media LLC 711 Alabama Ave. Selma, AL 36701 Stay up-to-date on Selma News at SelmaSun.com Subscribe for only $26 a year at selmasun.com/about
State Licensing Board for General Contractors: 37505 Alabama Board of Heating & Air Conditioning Contractors: 83239 Alabama Board of Refrigeration Contractors: 51829 Alabama Master Plumber/Gas Fitter: 17-0149
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July 25, 2019
SELMA SUN
VOICES REPRESENTING
Waiting for a signature BY PRINCE CHESTNUT This past session, there were several bills proposed by me but only a few made their way into becoming law. It is a long and arduous journey for an idea to become a bill and then ultimately a law. Not only do you have to get a bill drafted, revised and vetted prior to introduction, but you must also navigate it through committees and then work to
get them on the floor of both the House and Senate. Afterward, you have to get it passed in both chambers in the same form and get the governor to sign the bill in its last and ultimate form. The governor can decide that she does not want to lend her signature to your bill and it is done. This is why politics is serious business; you want a person who is tough enough to fight for your issues but smart enough to
know when to pull back. You get on the wrong side of the governor as a legislator and your job is more difficult. A governor may veto your bill either by explicitly letting you know she will not sign your bill or by not saying or doing anything at all and allowing a “pocket veto” to take place. The governor has a liaison to the House and Senate who will periodically walk on the floors in the two chambers and watch the process, ask questions, and
tell you what her office’s position may be. When I had bills delivered and ready for signature, I was not hearing anything from the liaison. Because these were my bills and they were not products of any preferred special interest, I assume this is why there was little to no communication. I texted, communicated and tracked my bills and finally came across proof of my bills being approved a week after being delivered for signature.
Those two bills were HB355 (bill permitting the rehiring of retired officers in rural Alabama cities and towns who have issues finding qualified patrol cops as long as the new employer uses the same or similar retirement system as their previous employer) and HB378 (bill creating the Municipal Audit Accountability Act to ensure accountability with municipalities in audit compliance). I had to keep my foot on the pedal. If
I did not, these bills probably would not have made it. Together we will get good bills signed, sealed and delivered for the people. Prince Chestnut is State Representative for House District 67.
Alabama is a Republican state but US is probably a Democratic nation
BY STEVE FLOWERS The 2020 Presidential Election year has already begun. It usually begins on Labor Day of the year prior to the Election. However, in recent decades the parade has started early. They really are four-year caravans. They begin the day after the President is sworn in. Indeed, President Trump never shut down his campaign organization, He essentially has
never stopped campaigning. He loves to campaign. He loves to entertain. That is really what he was before he was President and that is what he has been as President, an entertainer. He treats the Presidency as though it is an extension and continuation of his television game show. As long as he is the center of attention he is happy. Trump is amazingly similar to our two most colorful and prominent Alabama political icons, Big Jim Folsom and George Wallace. He is just as uninhibited and disarming as Big Jim was with the same irreverence for protocol and decorum. He is similar to Wallace in that he really likes campaigning and prefers campaigning to governing. Wallace really didn’t want to govern, he just liked running and getting elected governor. Speaking of Wallace, he liked to run for President also. He ran several times. He usually ran under some third-party
banner. As he ran around the country running as a third-party state’s rights candidate, he would proclaim that there is not a dimes worth of difference in the national Democratic and Republican parties. However, even Wallace could not say that with a straight face today. Folks, there are a lot of philosophical differences in the national Republican and Democratic parties. They really should change their names to the Conservative and Liberal parties. The Republican Party is extremely conservative and the Democratic Party is very liberal. This extreme philosophy by each party is what has driven people into different political corners and is the reason for the political polarization of American politics. The electronic media and news networks have further driven and enhanced this polarization. Fox News Network is simply the network that Republicans watch. CNN and
MSNBC could be and people assume they are appendages of the national Democratic Party. The CBS Stephen Colbert show is unashamedly the hate Donald Trump show. They should change the title to that name. The two-party machinery and nomination process is designed to choose a presidential contender as their nominee that is from the extreme segment of the party. This is especially true in the Democratic ranks. Therefore, the probability of a left wing socialist like Bernie Sanders or Elizabeth Warren being the nominee is likely. This does not bode well for our anomaly junior Democratic U.S. Senator Doug Jones. He will be running along with one of his liberal Democratic buddies. Jones has organized and voted lockstep with the Democrats since his arrival last year, which is what most folks who know Jones expected. He is a real national, liberal Democrat. He has
always been and will always be a Democrat. In Jones’s defense, he is not a demagogue. He will not change his stripes or beliefs to get elected. That was evident with his vote against the conservative Trump Supreme Court appointee, Brett Kavanaugh. Jones was the only Southern Senator to vote against Trump. Indeed, Jones is the only Democratic Senator in the Deep South. His being on the ticket with the Democratic Presidential candidate in November 2020 in the Heart of Dixie, makes his chance of being elected slim-tonone. It would be a surprise if he gets 40% even with a ton of left-wing money pouring into the state on his behalf. Last year’s General Election proved we are a Red Republican State. One of the most Republican in the Nation. Donald Trump, or for that matter any Republican, will carry Alabama next year. Mickey Mouse would carry Alabama 60 to 40 if he were the
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nominee. However, Donald Duck would carry California and New York if he were the Democratic nominee. Folks, I hate to break it to you, but California and New York have more electoral votes than we do. It was just as much an anomaly that Donald Trump carried Michigan, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and even Ohio and Florida, as it was that Doug Jones won in Alabama. As we look to the 2020 elections, it is evident that Alabama is a Republican state. However, the United States is probably a Democratic nation. Steve Flowers has analyzed Alabama politics for national television audiences on CBS, PBS, ABC and the British Broadcasting Network. Steve has been an up-close participant and observer of the Alabama political scene for more than 50 years and is generally considered the ultimate authority on Alabama politics and Alabama political history.
SELMA SUN
July 25, 2019
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Legal Notices
Legal Notices
Legal Notices
Legal Notices
Legal Notices
Legal Notices
In accordance of Alabama Law, notice is hereby given that 1st Choice Storage LLC at 1215 W Highland Ave. Selma, AL
36701 will sell at public auction or dispose of contents, on August 2, 2019 @ 9:00am. 87 Brandon
Childers 3443 Moore Ferry Rd Marion JCT, AL. 19 Vanessa Beajour 6819 Park Ave Cincinnati, OH 45236. 20 Rufus
Ford 302 Laurel Ave Selma, AL 36701. 7 Dora Woods 1207 Highland Ave Selma, AL 36701. 48 Howard Barron 2419 N.
Board St. Selma, AL 36701. The personal goods stored therein by the following may include, but are not limited to gener-
al household, furniture, boxes, clothes and appliances.
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Rural Development West Dallas Water Authority: Notice of Finding of No Significant Impact AGENCY: Rural Utility Service, USDA ACTION: Notice of Finding of No Significant Impact. SUMMARY: The Rural Utility Service (RUS) has made a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) with respect to a request for possible financing assistance to West Dallas Water Authority (WDWA) for the construction of the Water System Improvements (Project) in Dallas County, Alabama. FURTHER INFORMATION: To obtain copies of the EA and FONSI, or for further information, contact: Nivory Gordon, Jr., Area Director at USDA, RD, 321 Depot Street, Camden, AL 36726, 334-682-4116 Ext. 110 or via email at Nivory. gordon@usda.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The proposal is for construction of water
mains along county roads to improve flow and serve new customers and to replace filter media. Alternatives considered by RUS and WDWA include: No action and constructing private wells. The alternatives are discussed in the EA. RUS has reviewed and approved the EA for the proposed project. The availability of public review for the EA was announced via notice in the Selma Sun on June 27 & July 4, 2019. A 14-day comment period was announced in the newspaper notice. The EA was also available for public review at the USDA Rural Development office. No comments were received. Based on its EA, commitments made by WDWA, and lack of public comments received, RUS has concluded that the project would have no impacts to water quality, wetlands, floodplains, land use, aesthetics, transportation, or human health and safety. The proposed project will have no adverse effect on resources listed or eligible for
listing on the National Register of Historic Places. The Agency has also concluded that the proposed project is not likely to affect federally listed threatened and endangered species or designated critical habitat thereof. The proposed project would not disproportionately affect minority and/or low income populations. No other potential significant impacts resulting from the proposed project have been identified. Therefore, RUS has determined that this FONSI fulfills its obligations under the National Environmental Policy Act, as amended (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), the Council on Environmental Quality Regulations (40 CFR §§ 1500-1508), and USDA Rural Development's Environmental Policies and Procedures (7 CFR Part 1970) for its action related to the project. RUS is satisfied that the environmental impacts of the proposed project have been adequately addressed. RUS’s federal action would not result in significant impacts to the quality of the human environ-
ment, and as such it will not prepare an Environmental
Impact Statement for its action related to the proposed project.
Dated: July 16, 2019 Selma Sun – July 25, 2019
July 18, 25
Ready or not‌It’s time for school BY AVIS WILLIAMS
Superintendent of Selma City Schools Where did the summer go? At this time of year, many people often ask me, “Are you ready for school to start back?’. My short answer is a simple yes. But ready or not, it’s just about that time. This means that our scholars need to start preparing. Parents and families can help beginning now. Here’s how. First and foremost, start getting accustomed to those mornings by adjusting bedtime and wake up time. The body has
a memory and it works better when put on a consistent schedule. Now is the time to begin thinking about night and morning routines and how long it will take to go from waking up to heading out the door. Getting to school on time and prepared are essential to success throughout the school year. Creating a family planner for the school year is also helpful. Many dates of important events will be available before the start of school. The school calendar for the year is great resource as well. Mark the
dates for school holidays to include spring break and teacher work days. We know how busy parents are and we need your involvement. Planning ahead by using a family planner will help ensure that priorities are set and that there are minimal surprises as the year progresses. If your child is going to kindergarten or to a new school, early preparation can make the transition less stressful. Prior to the first day, find out about open house dates, uniform or dress requirements, summer reading and even special class
or grade-level specific events. Even if your child is not new to their school, nervousness is natural as we approach the first day of school. Believe it or not, teachers, principals and yes even your superintendent get nervous at this time of year also. A little anxiety is normal. Help curtail it by getting a good night’s rest before the first day. Get up in time so that no one is stressed out due to rushing. Ensure that your scholar arrives a little early, with a positive attitude. Finally, goal setting is a positive way to prepare for the new
school year. Whether it’s clubs, athletics, grades or behavior, work with your scholar to set two to three reasonable goals to achieve during the year. Include several check points within the year and consider rewards or celebrations for goal attainment. Summer is great but like many great things, it will eventually come to an end. Embrace this new school year and plan for success because, ready or not, it’s about that time. For more information, email me at avis.williams@selmacityschools.org
Deadly summer for boating accidents should lead to more funding for Alabama marine patrol
BY PAUL DEMARCO This summer has proven to be deadly on Alabama waterways, with 25 fatalities so far this year. The high number of deadly boating accidents has made
2019 one of the worst years for deadly boating accidents in over 20 years. While only midway through the year, the numbers have already eclipsed fatal boating accidents in each of the past two years in Alabama. There is no rhyme or reason for the recent increase in deaths on the state’s waters. The accidents have occurred both at daylight and night, while alcohol and driver error have also been involved. However, one consistent fact is that Alabama has woefully underfunded the state’s marine police who can patrol and enforce state boating laws. This past session, in an effort to reduce traffic fatalities, the Alabama Legislature increased funding by the tune
of $7 million to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency to put an additional 50 troopers on the state’s highways. The State Marine Patrol told AL.com that there are more boaters on the water and fewer law officers, with over one million boaters each year on the state’s lakes, rivers and coastline. However, there are only 45 current marine patrol troopers with 21 vacancies. State lawmakers need to now budget more monies to the Marine Patrol to provide for more presence on the state’s waters. Hopefully more law enforcement on Alabama’s waterways will reduce the accidents and fatalities. Paul DeMarco is a former Alabama State Representative.
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July 25, 2019
6
SELMA SUN
LIFESTYLE
Country cooking recipes that take you down memory lane This week’s column is all about country cooking. We all love the kinds of foods you eat at your church potluck and family gatherings. If you're like me, I'm sad to say that so much of my family has now passed away. My memories are full of adventure and big meals on Sundays like what I experienced growing up. When I was a kid, we went down to my great grandmother Bessie Johnson's house in Chelsea. It was an every-Sunday thing and it truly was some of the best days of my life. I recently came across a recipe book that was published in the 1960s by the Huntsville, Alabama historical society. These recipes are a blast from the past and I hope you will enjoy them! If you have an exciting recipe to share in 2019, then please send it to me at P.O. Box 693 Leeds, Alabama 35094 -Andrew M. Armstrong
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ACROSS 1 Something to tote 4 Choice 8 Flagged vehicle 11 Wear and tear 12 Shake, as a tail 13 One may be caught in it 14 Blitzed 15 Ending for school or middle 16 Do some simple calculating 17 It holds water 19 Forms a lap 21 ___ Brunswick 23 Fireplace stuff 26 Of the shore 30 Give assistance to 31 Attempt to persuade 32 Hit the spot 34 Fruit-basket items 36 Dire declaration 37 News story 39 Fall on the set, perhaps 43 Cheering crowd member 45 Go the distance 47 Word paired with "neither" 48 The I in TGIF 49 Have good feelings about 50 Big or baby, e.g. 51 Receive 52 Dropped 53 White Monopoly item
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Sudoku
The 11th Annual City of Selma Youth Conference is scheduled for July 24-27. This year’s theme is “Imagine That.” Workshops cover individual and team leadership classes and education topics ranging from “Free To be Me” to “ACT & College Preparation” to how to survive in the woods everything in between. Hosted by City Councilwoman Angela Benjamin by City Hall. Edmundite Missions Uniform Drive. We are asking for donations of new or gently used khaki or navy bottoms and white polo shirts. These items can be for boys and girls of all sizes. To donate please bring to Edmundite Missions on Minter Avenue or ship to 1002 Minter Avenue, Selma, Al 36701. Through the McKinneyVento Assistance Act, the Dallas County School District is actively seeking to identify and enroll all students who are living in a homeless situation that reside with Dallas County School’s jurisdiction. To be eligible for local services, students must meet the criteria of homeless and attend school. For questions or assistance, of knowing of a school-age child who needs assistance in enrolling and attending school, contact Dorothy Irvin at 334-8726251 or a local school. Lunch & Life Monday Table Talk with Pastor Tonya Chestnut-Every Monday from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at The Coffee Shoppe, 308 Broad Street, Selma, AL-Session 1 at 11:45 a.m. and Session 2 at 12:30 p.m. Register for the 2nd Annual AIM for Excellence 5K 1-Mile Fun Run & Walk scheduled for Saturday, August 3, 2019 at 7:30 a.m. at Bloch Park, Selma, AL-All ages welcome-Registration $10 and up-Virtual Run available-For more information and to register at https://runsignup.com/Race/AL/Selma/ AIMFOREXCELLENCE5K or call 334-874-1600. Farmers Market Season begins Saturday, June 1, 2019- The market opens on Tuesday’s, Thursday’s and Saturdays beginning June 1 – Nov. 15 from 6 a.m. until 2 p.m. or until the last vendor sells out. The market is located at Bloch Park on Dallas Avenue in Selma. For more information or if you have questions, please contact the market manager at 334-518-0346.
Solutions
TUNA BURGERS 1 can of tuna, drained (7 Ounces) 3 boiled eggs, chopped 2 Tablespoons of pickle relish 2 Tablespoons of minced onion 2 Tablespoons of stuffed olives, chopped 1/2 Cup of mayonnaise 1/2 Cup of cheese, shredded Pat the meat into the desired sizes and cook like normal. These burgers can be fried in a skillet or cooked on the grill. If you preheat the oven at 325 degrees and spray down a baking sheet, they can be baked at 325 for 15 minutes. If you bake
them, flip the patties after 7 minutes. VEGETABLE CASSEROLE 1 head of cauliflower, chopped 8 small potatoes, chopped 1 large onion, chopped 1 Cup of English peas, chopped 2 Tablespoons of butter 2 Tablespoons of flour 2 Cups of heavy cream 1 teaspoon of salt 1 teaspoon of black pepper 3 Cups of cheese, shredded French fried onions Preheat the oven at 350 degrees. Whip the heavy cream stiff and fold in the remaining ingredients. Top with the French fried onions. Pour into a greased Casserole dish and bake at 350 degrees for one hour. EGG SALAD CASSEROLE 1 Cup of bacon bits 1 dozen boiled eggs, chopped 1/4 teaspoon of salt 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper 1/4 Cup of nuts, chopped 1 Cup of potato chips 1 small onion, chopped 2/3 Cup of mayonnaise 1 1/2 Cups of celery, diced
1/4 Cup of cheese, shredded Preheat the oven at 350 degrees. Mix all the ingredients together and pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. COUNTRY NOODLE CASSEROLE 1/2 Pound of bacon, cooked & crumbled 1 package of egg noodles, soaked in boiling water for 10 minutes 3 Cups of cottage cheese 3 Cups of sour cream 2 cloves of garlic, crushed 2 onions, chopped 2 Tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce 1 dash of hot sauce 1 egg Prepared Horse radish to taste 1 Cup of grated Parmesan cheese Preheat the oven at 350 degrees. Mix all the ingredients together and pour into a buttered Casserole dish. Cover and bake for one hour. Remove the covering and top with more Parmesan cheese. Bake for 15 to 20 more minutes, until the noodles are soft and the topping is golden brown.
Community Calendar
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DEVILED EGGS CASSEROLE 6 hard boiled eggs, halved 1 teaspoon of vinegar 1/2 teaspoon of mustard Mayonnaise to taste
1 can of mushroom soup 1 package of onion rings, frozen Salt and Pepper to taste Preheat the oven at 350 degrees. Spray a Casserole dish with cooking spray and place the onion rings in the bottom. Sliced the white of the eggs over the onions. Mix the yolks together with the remaining ning ingredients. Pour the mixture over the onions and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes.
Register for the Grist-Brown Memorial YMCA Summer Camp at 1 YMCA Drive, Selma happening June 3 - August 2. Cost $85 per week for members and $95 per week for non-members. Summer Day Camp will operate Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.6 p.m. Official start time is 8 a.m. and pick up time is 5 p.m.For more information call 334375-8301.
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Dallas County Family Resource Center -Money Smart
Classes Wednesdays from 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. at the Dallas County Family Resource Center, 10096 AL Highway 14 W, Selma. To reserve your seat in these classes call 334-8747785. Water and light snacks provided. American Red Cross Seeking VolunteersVolunteers needed for Disaster Action Team, Office Support, Volunteer Services Recruitment Lead, Service to Armed Forces, Biomed/Blood Services, Disaster ServicesFor more information contact Sandy Zuiderheok at 334-2011620 or sandy.zuiderhoek@redcross.org. To apply, visit www. redcross.org/alabama/volunteer. SAG-The Selma Art Guild Summer Juried Art Exhibition. Call for entries. Receiving May 31, 12 p.m.- 4 p.m. and June 1, 12p.m.-4 p.m. at the gallery. Pick up on June 8, 12 p.m.-4 p.m. Reception on June 9 at 2 p.m.-4 p.m. Awards presented at 3 p.m. Pick up on July 27, 12 p.m.-4 p.m. For further information, contact Gena Clements at selmabelle@ yahoo.com or selmaartguild@ yahoo.com. Black Belt Community Foundation now accepting applications for a free Preschool program for children ages 3-5-Enrolling at the following locations: Easterseals 2906B Citizens Parkway, Selma; Keith, 1166 County Road 115, Orrville; Southside, 3104 Old Montgomery Highway, Selma; Choctaw, 201 Tom Orr, Butler, AL; GP Austin, 550 Martin Luther King Dr., Linden, AL; JE Hobbs, 30 Claiborne, Camden, AL-Bring Proof of residency, verification of birth, parent/guardian ID, proof of family income, and current shot record to complete an application-To schedule an appointment please call 334-431-3706 For more information, visit www.blackbeltfound.org. Pre-K Registration 2019-2020 Byrd Pre-K Program. Selma City Schools will continue to offer our premiere First Class Early Learning Program. Online registration available at https://alprek.asapconnected. com. Open to all children four years of age by Oct. 1. Copy of birth certificate and two proofs of residence required. Visit www.children.alabama. gov and see Pre-Registration Info under First Class Pre-K. Please call 334 874-1620 for any questions or www.selmacityschools.org. The Dallas County School District is offering Free Introductory Computer Classes to all parents and guardians with children in the county school system. Participants will learn the basics of how to use a computer in a funfilled atmosphere, introduction to Microsoft Word 2016, Internet and more. Classes will meet every Tuesday, beginning
Sept. 5 from 10 a.m.-noon at the Dallas County Learning Resource Center, located at 5570 Water Avenue and from 3 p.m.-5 p.m. at Keith High School. For more information, or to enroll, call Dorothy Irvin or Ivery Williams at 334-8726251. Through the McKinneyVento Assistance Act, the Dallas County School District is actively seeking to identify and enroll all students who are living in a homeless situation that reside with Dallas County School’s jurisdiction. To be eligible for local services, students must meet the criteria of homeless and attend school. For questions or assistance, of knowing of a school-age child who needs assistance in enrolling and attending school, contact Dorothy Irvin at 334-8726251 or a local school. Backyard Bible Club from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at Moody Circle at Craig Field, Sardis Community Center, and Water Avenue trailer Park. Sponsored by United for the City. Register for the 2nd Annual AIM for Excellence 5K 1-Mile Fun Run & Walk scheduled for Saturday, August 3, 2019 at 7:30 am at Bloch Park, Selma, AL-All ages welcome-Registration $10 and up-Virtual Run available-For more information and to register https://runsignup.com/Race/AL/Selma/ AIMFOREXCELLENCE5K or call 334-874-1600. Ready to Work Training is a free program available to people who are unemployed, seeking entry-level skills, or want to re-enter the workforce. The mobile training unit is located behind the headquarters building at 48 Fifth Street, Craig Field. Classes begin Monday, April 15 from 8:30-11:30 am, Monday through Thursday. The ready to work program provides trainees the entry-level skills required for employment with most businesses and industries. Specific training is in the following areas: Communication skills, conflict resolution, and financial management, problem solving strategies, computer technology skills, decision-making, career exploration and teamwork. For more information, call Kimberly WalkerCrowe at 334-874-7419. Book Bunch from 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. at the SelmaDallas County Public Library, Vaughan Room every Wednesday - Everyone is welcome. Bring a friend and to share and talk about good books. Pet Adoptions - Selma Animal Shelter in conjunction with the Human Society of Central Alabama are open on the 1st Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Adoptions Only, no take ins. All adoptions are fully vetted, ready to go to a loving home. Call 334- 877-2204.
Kingian Nonviolence Conflict Reconciliation Train the Trainer Institute Level II with Dr. Bernard Lafayette & Team at Healing Water Retreat Center, 8 Mulberry Rd, Selma, AL-$450 which includes breakfast and lunch daily. Full scholarships are available for Selma residents and reduced rates for others based upon need. Must have completed Level I to qualify for Level II training and includes learning on the go with visits to historical sites in the regionRegister at https://tinyurl. com/KingianNVre g-online, BOConner@SelmaCNTR. org or 334-526-4539 Ext. 3. For more information, visit www. SelmaCNTR.org.
July 25 Summer Movie Blast at the Walton Theater showing “Christopher Robin” at 10 a.m. at the Walton Theater Selma on 1000 Selma Avenue. Doors open at 9:30 a.m.-$5 (includes small popcorn & small drink). Movie subject to change due to availability. For more information, visit www.waltontheaterselma.org or Walton Theater Selma on Facebook. Movies every Thursday for the months of June and July.
July 27 Wannabe Rescued Annual Yard Sale at 7 a.m. at Westwood Baptist Church, 4085 Highway 80 West (Across from the Old Taylorville). Accepting taxdeductible donations of items until July 21. For more information, contact Rotton Weiler at 251-610-5758, Jeni Saylor at 251-581-2454, Beverly Huffman at 334-239-1039, or Lorraine Alexander at 334-412-1963. All proceeds benefit homeless, sick, and abused animals of Dallas County. Michael Johnson 93-90 Foundation Family Fun Day/ Back to School Giveaway from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at the YMCA, located at 1 YMCA Drive, Selma. 2019 Gospel Summer Fest at 5 p.m. at the J.A. Pickard Auditorium, located at 400 Washington Street, SelmaAdvance tickets $25 - At the door $30 - For more information call 334-419-0609.
July 29 - July 30 Landscaping Course and Certification from 8:30 a.m.3:30 p.m. each day at the Central Alabama Farmers Co-op, Highway 80 West in Selma. Cost: Free. Please RSVP at www.agitc.org/classes/course or call Jim Nabors at 205-981-2326 ext. 11. A minimum of five participants is required for the class to be held and you must register by July 26.
July 29 - August 1 Tennis Camp with Vaval Tennis from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at Selma City Courts-Ages 12 and under-Online registration at www.allinsportsoutreach.org.
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SELMA SUN
July 25, 2019
7
COMMUNITY
Hudson High School 1969 graduating class celebrated 50th reunion with tour, donation
Alexis and Corbyn served as tour guides. R. B. Hudson’s Graduating Class of 1969 celebrated their 50th reunion on a tour of the new R. B. Hudson STEAM Academy and made a donation to the school.
R. B. Hudson's Graduating Class of 1969 celebrated their 50th reunion on The Hudson High School alumni donated $2,000 to the new R.B. Hudson a tour of the new R. B. Hudson STEAM Academy. STEAM Academy.
STEAM Academy's new Principal Cicely Curtis said she is excited about the support received from the Class of 1969. “This fine class donated $2,000 to the school and many
have committed to volunteering throughout the school year,” she said. “It is clear to me that the Class of 1969 understands that they are part of the
village that is needed to raise our children.“ Curtis would like to issue a charge to other Hudson High graduating classes to get
Summer Blast event provides info for parents of children with special health care needs SPECIAL TO THE SELMA SUN Families of children and youth with special health care needs in the Selma and Dallas County area are invited to attend the 2019 Summer Blast Family Resource and Fun Day on Aug. 2. The event will take place at the Children’s Rehabilitation Service (CRS) office in Selma and will feature food, fun, face painting, resource information booths, a wheelchair wash and much more. CRS Social Worker Constance Phillips said Selma CRS is hosting Family Resource and Fun Day as a way to give back to their families and let them know that CRS staff are also invested in the well-being of the children they serve. Throughout the day, speakers will provide helpful and
relevant information on a variety of topics related to children and youth with special health care needs. “We also have community providers that will bring resources and information that can be a means of support for parents taking care of children with special needs,” Phillips said. “In addition to being a learning event, it’s a fun day with family-friendly entertainment that will put smiles on everyone’s face.” Phillips said this event can be an eye-opening experience for parents who might not be aware of the resources available. “It’s important for our parents to attend because the most important thing for a parent of a youth or child with special healthcare needs is to be
involved and to be proactive in the care and development of their child,” she said. CRS is a program of the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services. The
Selma CRS office is at 720 Alabama Ave. For more information, contact Rick Couch at richard. couch@rehab.alabama.gov or (334) 293-7046.
involved in the many initiatives to help support building our local scholars. “Community involvement can make a difference in trans-
forming our schools,” Curtis said. Their motto for success this year is #STEAMing4Excellence. - Chico Cleveland
Michael Johnson 93-90 Foundation back to school event set for Saturday In anticipation of the new school year the YMCA of Selma-Dallas County will host the Michael Johnson 93-90 Foundation’s annual Family Fun Day Back to School Bash this Saturday. Instead of money, participants are asked to bring canned goods or non-perishable food items as admission. The event will feature food, face painting, music, a water slide and other activities. The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the YMCA of Selma-Dallas County located at 1 YMCA Drive. For more information, call 334-419-3544.
Families can learn what services are available at the Summer Blast. Photo from Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services.
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July 25, 2019
8
SELMA SUN
OUTDOORS
Beat the heat the smart way this summer BY TODD PRATER Selma Sun Staff
It’s hot in Alabama, and it will get even hotter in the next few weeks. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the warmest part of the year is usually mid-July through mid-August. The hottest part of the day is generally between 2 and 4 p.m. Jamie Durham, director of the Alabama Department of Public Health’s Bureau of Prevention, Promotion and Support, said there are three points he would like for everyone to consider when planning summer activities. First, Durham suggests folks “stay in a cool environment during the heat of the day.” He recommended scheduling activities for the coolest times of day, in the morning and afternoon hours. Durham added that light-fitting, light-colored clothing, frequent rest breaks and cool-down time are good ideas also. Second, “hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Don’t wait until you
are thirsty. Hydrate before, during and after any outdoor activities,” he said. Water is the best thing for your body, but during heavy activities, sports drinks are good because they replenish minerals and the electrolytes that your body will lose during these activities. If sugar is an issue, there are sugar-free sports drinks, or drink Pedialyte. Do not drink alcoholic beverages; they dehydrate, as do caffeinated drinks. Third, be weather aware. Keep informed of the weather conditions to better plan your activities. High temperatures in Alabama are nothing new, but most folks are no longer acclimated to the heat because we have become used to air conditioning. As recently as the late 1960s, many homes and buildings were not air-conditioned. We lived in the heat, and our bodies were accustomed to it. Today it would be hard to find any home or office that is not air conditioned; even our vehicles come standard with air conditioning.
If for some reason you get outside in the heat and overdo it, Durham said you should watch for symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Red splotches or a rash on your skin are an early warning that you need to cool down. If you sweat heavily and your skin becomes cold and clammy, and if you begin to experience muscle cramps and dizziness, you may be going into heat exhaustion. “If you start passing out, you may actually be on the verge of heat stroke,” Durham said. If you have any of these symptoms, first loosen clothing. Then get into a cool place and rest. But you want a gradual cool down. “If you put someone with these symptoms in an area that is too cold too quickly, it could make them go into shock,” Durham said. Some good cool down places are in the shade, in front of a fan, or an air conditioned vehicle if the vents are not directly on the person. An air conditioned building is also good, but don’t let the air blow directly on the person.
“If you stop sweating and your temperature goes above 100 degrees and you lose consciousness, someone needs to call 911 immediately and get you into a cool place,” Durham said. This is heat stroke, and it
can be life threatening, Durham explained. Durham said age and physical condition are all factors that determine sensitivity to heat. Always consult your doctor when you are planning to
engage in any strenuous physical activity. If you would like more information you can go to the Alabama Department of Public Health web page at www.alabamapubilchealth. gov.
in specific areas of Alabama’s waterways. The 2019 advisory is available at the Alabama Department of Public Health website; http://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/tox/fish-advisories.html There is more information also available at the Alabama
Department of Environmental Management website; http://www.adem.alabama. gov/programs/water/wqsurvey/table/2017/2017FishTissueMonitoringProgramAnnualReport.pdf http://adem.alabama.gov/ programs/water/wqsurvey/ WQMonitoringStrategy.pdf
Watch for mercury in Alabama fish BY TODD PRATER Selma Sun Staff
Fish is an important and healthy addition to any diet, but the Alabama State Department of Public Health wants you to know that there are some toxins, mainly mercury, found in fish caught in certain bodies of water around the state. ADPH issues advisories every year to inform the public about where the most affected fish may be. But before you read this year’s advisory and decide to quit eating fish, State Department of Public Health Environmental Toxicologist John Grisco said you need to put the advisories in their proper context.
“The fish advisories are based on continual consumption of fish across the course of a lifetime,” Grisco said. If you occasionally catch and eat fish with mercury in its tissue, it will not harm you, but it could become a problem if you do it every day for many years. Mercury is a natural element found in many places around the world. It’s found in ore-bearing rocks, deep sea vents and even volcanos. Some is produced as a byproduct of using of coal to produce energy. Dust containing mercury falls to the earth, and rain washes it into the water. Bacteria in the water often retain some
mercury in their system, and then the heavy metal works its way up the food chain, eventually to the bass family. In Alabama, Grisco said, bass are the fish that are the most concern, especially largemouth bass. Grisco said the Environmental Protection Agency established what he called a “trigger level,” a level of toxins that places the fish on the advisory. Several years ago, EPA reduced the trigger level to one third of what it was, which placed many more fish on the advisory, according to Grisco. Grisco reiterated that the advisory is not all fish everywhere; it’s for certain spe-
Smallmouth bass
Largemouth bass cies in specific areas of the streams, rivers and lakes across the state. And most fish will have such a low level of mercury that eating them will do no harm. He said the advisory is a recommendation that over a lifetime you should consume only the suggested amount of specific fish caught
Striped bass
The Selma Sun sizes up Selma and Dallas County's 2019 football teams in a Football Preview Edition on August 22.
#E A PARƑ OF THIS SPECIAL EDIųON AND WISH THE TEAMS LUƂ IN THE FALL For more information, contact Publisher Cindy Fisher at publisher@selmasun.com or
205-789-0973.
CALL THIS NEWSPAPER’S AD DEPARTMENT TO PLACE YOUR AD Or call 1-800-264-7043