Mobile County CommissionMobile County Seal
District 2
News & Events

Commis
sioner Connie Hudson
June 6, 2014 
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MESSAGE FROM COMMISSIONER

CONNIE HUDSON

AIDT'S ALABAMA AVIATION TRAINING CENTER SET TO OPEN

June 24 marks the formal grand opening date for the Alabama Aviation Training Center located at the Brookley Aeroplex. The $7 million dollar facility, designed to train employment prospects for the Airbus A320 final assembly line, includes six classrooms, five laboratories, general office space, a conference room, break room and a shop floor for on-site training. The labs will focus primarily on electrical, composite, paint, welding, and assembly operations. Anyone interested in submitting an application for acceptance into the training program should Click Here to view opportunities.

Have a great weekend!

 

Warmest Regards,

Connie

 

JOINT TOWN HALL MEETING WITH CONGRESSMAN BRADLEY BYRNE  

MEMORIAL DAY 2014
Memorial Day 2014 at the Mobile National Cemetery with Baldwin County Commissioner Tucker Dorsey

Memorial Day 2014 at the Mobile National Cemetery with Captain Hal "Sea Lord of Mobile" Pierce

Memorial Day 2014, City of Semmes Honor Park, with City of Semmes Mayor Judy Hale following the park dedication.

The South Alabama Regional Planning Commission (SARPC) awarded the 2014 Norman J. Walton Award to the Mobile County Commission May 27, 2014. Pictured with Commissioner Hudson (L to R) Chris Miller, Executive Director of SARPC, Commissioner Merceria Ludgood and Commissioner Jerry Carl.

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IN THIS ISSUE
 
dogFEATURED MOBILE COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER
PET OF THE WEEK, "DAPHNE"

"Daphne" is a one-year-old, 39 pound Basset Hound mix brought into the shelter after roaming at large. She is very calm and friendly and would be an awesome addition to any loving home. The current cost of her adoption is $80, which includes one set of shots, spaying and a rabies vaccination. If you are interested in adopting Daphne, please contact the Mobile County Animal Shelter at 574-3647(DOGS).  

      

For more information on the Mobile County Animal Shelter or to view a list of all current adoptable pets at the MCAS Click Here.   

 

NEW SHELTER HOURS

 

The Mobile County Animal Shelter will be closed over the June 7 and June 8 and will open only one Saturday per month, effective immediately due to staff vacancies and the low volume of Saturday adoptions. Shelter hours will be 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays and a special adoption event will be planned for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the fourth Saturday of each month.


Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Alabama (BBBSSA) is the largest one-to-one mentoring organization in south Alabama, providing children (ages 6 through 18) facing adversity with strong, enduring and professionally supported one-to-one mentoring relationships that change lives for the better, forever. Aimee Risser, CEO of BBBSSA stated, "We identify children,"Littles", in our community who may come from a low income, single-parent family, are being raised by extended family members, are in the care of the state, or have a parent who is incarcerated. We then find a caring adult who has similar interests and is willing to volunteer time to uplift this child and provide an extra layer of support and guidance. Our volunteers,"Bigs", commit to being in the child's life for at least a year with the intention of developing a mentor relationship. Our measured outcomes suggest that children who stay matched in our program for at least a year are more likely to do better in school, avoid risky behaviors, feel socially accepted by their peers, and are more confident that they will finish high school." For one volunteer who lives in Mobile County District 2, the experience has been life changing. 

 

Royce Ray was introduced to Big Brothers Big Sisters through his place of employment at American Equity Underwriters (AEU). AEU provides an opportunity for Royce to leave work once a week for an hour to meet with his Little at school, during school hours. At first Royce was uncertain how his participation would make any real difference in a child's life, but he decided to give the program a chance and after being a Big for over five years, he cannot imagine life without a Little!

 

Royce and Carl in 2008.
Royce and Carl in 2014.





 





Royce met his Little, Carl in 2008. At the time they were matched, Carl was 11 and in the 6th grade. Carl was a great kid with endless potential, but due to his circumstances, he needed a male role model in his life. Royce spent countless hours that first year being Carl's friend and discussing many subjects important to Carl's future and development, including academic performance, participation in sports, avoiding drugs, getting a good education, attending college, doing his best, and setting goals. Royce constantly encouraged Carl and emphasized that what he was doing at that time would set the foundation for his future and Carl had big plans for himself. Carl just now completed his 11th grade year, staying on the A/B Honor Role and a member of his High School basketball and football teams.

 

There are so many more children in our community like Carl who need an additional person in their life to uplift them and provide the "you can do it" attitude despite the obstacles they face.

 

If you are at least 18 years of age and are able to commit to at least one year to be a part of a child's life, contact Big Brothers Big Sisters at 344-0536 ext. 102 or Click Here to learn about BBBSSA's school-based and community-based programs.

 

summercalendarMOBILE COUNTY SUMMER CALENDAR       

MARKET ON THE SQUARE

 

When: 7:30 a.m. to noon Saturdays, Now through July 26

Where: Cathedral Square, Downtown Mobile

 

The market features locally grown produce, seafood, beef, honey, breads, pastas, cheeses, plants, handcrafted goods for kitchen and home, live music and other activities. Arts and crafts vendors are featured on alternate Saturdays.

 

NEW! MARKET ON THE HILL

   

When: 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Thursdays, Now through July 31 

Where: Lavretta Park, Old Shell Road, Mobile

 

For more information Click Here or call the City of Mobile's Neighborhood and Community Services at 208-1550.

 

   

SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION OPEN AT THE GULF COAST EXPLOREUM

   

When: Now through August 15 

Where: Gulf Coast Exploreum, 65 Government Street, Downtown Mobile

 

These camps feature explosions, rockets, dinosaurs, mad science, engineering and more. If you have a child with a passion for science, education or just plain fun, then we have everything they need for an exciting and educational summer at the Gulf Coast Exploreum.  

 

Click Here to download the camp guide which includes camp schedule and cost information. Click Here to download the registration form.  

 

For more information contact the Exploreum at 208-6892 or Click Here to visit their website.

 

 

CONNIE HUDSON MOBILE REGIONAL SENIOR COMMUNITY CENTER FOUNDATION FISH FRY

    

When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 7

Where: CHMRSCC, 3201 Hillcrest Road, Mobile

 

This fish fry (eat in or take out) will benefit the senior community center and assist in their efforts to construct a covered patio/BBQ area at the center. The Modern Woodmen of America Chapter 18192 will match the proceeds raised up to $2,500. 

 

Cost: Donation of $10 per plate.

 

For more information or to purchase tickets contact Gary Hilburn, Modern Woodmen Activities Coordinator at 591-0835. 

 

 

FUSE PROJECT DRAGON BOAT RACE

   

When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 7

Where: 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, Spanish Fort

 

This event is a fundraiser for the FUSE project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing the spark for innovation, funding and implementation of projects benefiting children along Alabama's Gulf Coast. The Fuse Project invests in initiatives promoting the health, fitness, education and social responsibility of our children. This free family-friendly event will feature the dragon boat race, hot air balloon rides ($15 per person), art walk style vendors, food trucks, face-painting, dragon dancers, live music and much more!

 

For more information on this event or the FUSE project Click Here or call 654-2293. 

 

 

  

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA CHILDREN'S & WOMEN'S HOSPITAL 25TH NICU REUNION

   

When: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, June 8

Where: USA Children's & Women's Hospital, Geri Moulton Children's Park 


NICU graduates are babies who were born premature, underweight or ill, and were treated in the Wiseman NICU at USA Children's & Women's Hospital. A Level III NICU, it provides the region's most advanced care for premature and critically ill newborns. Nearly 1,000 babies are admitted annually to

the hospital's NICU, with more than 20 percent of those infants brought from other hospitals. There is no admission charge, there will be light refreshments and children's games.

 

For more information about the NICU reunion, please call USA hospital at 415-1000.

 

 

MOBILE MUSEUM OF ART: ART BLAST! SUMMER CAMP

 

When: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, June 9 through Friday, August 1

(not during the week of July 4)

Where: Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Drive, Mobile 

 

Art Blast, the Museum's summer art camp offers classes (both individual 2-hour classes or full day program) for 4-7-year olds, 8-11-year olds and 12 and up. Ceramics, painting and drawing in all styles inspire students to energize their creativity, while learning about elements of art and art history. All classes are taught by experienced art educators and are based on the Discipline-Based Arts Education principles of creating art, viewing art, discussing art in the context of history, while considering its aesthetics. 

 

For more information or to register contact Kim Wood at 208-5212 or Click Here to view a camp brochure.

   

 

PLAYHOUSE IN THE PARK HOSTS "ANNIE!- THE MUSICAL" AUDITIONS

When: 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, June 9 and Wednesday, June 11

Where: Playhouse in the Park, 4851 Museum Drive, Mobile 

 

The Playhouse in the Park's summer production will be "Annie!" the story of the fiery young orphan girl whose adventurous life goes from rags to riches. Those auditioning should be prepared to sing a 30-second song of their choice and also be prepared to perform a short dance audition. Auditions are open to ages 5 through mid-20s. The show will run from July 25 through August 17 on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m.

 

For more information Click Here or call the Playhouse at 602-0230. 



SAVE THE DATE: CITY OF MOBILE DISTRICT 5 COMMUNITY MEETING

When: 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 10
Where: St. Pius, 217 South Sage Avenue, Mobile

Join Councilmember Joel Daves for this important community meeting. Invited guests feature Mayor Stimpson, Police Chief James Barber, Executive Director of Public Safety Bill Harkins and Executive Director of Planning and Urban Development Dianne Irby.

 

For more information contact the City of Mobile Council Office at 208-7441.

 

  

WONDERFUL WEDNESDAYS AT BELLINGRATH GARDENS AND HOME

   

When: 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays,

June 11 through July 30

Where: Bellingrath Gardens and Home, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road, Theodore 

 

Every Wednesday, enjoy a special program about Bellingrath Gardens and Home, gardening, local history and nature among 65 acres of blooms!

 

Cost: Adults, $12; children 5-12, $6.50; and children 4 and under are free. Additional charges for Home Tour and/or Riverboat Cruise. Reservations are requested. 

 

For more information or to make reservations Click Here or contact BGH at 973-2217.

 

LODA ARTWALK

 

When: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, June 13

Where: Lower Dauphin Art District, Downtown Mobile 

 

Second Fridays in downtown Mobile is the place to be! Join downtown art galleries, institutions, studios and unique shops as they open their doors and welcome you inside to see beautiful artwork, sample delicious foods and hear the sounds of the LoDa Artwalk.  

 

 

DISTINGUISHED YOUNG WOMEN 57TH PRELIMINARIES AND NATIONAL FINALS  

 

 

 

When: 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, June 26 through June 28

Where: Mobile Civic Center Theater, 401 Civic Center Drive, Downtown Mobile 

 

The Distinguished Young Women Preliminary Competitions are on Thursday and Friday as the Class of 2014 competes in fitness, talent and self-expression. On Saturday evening, celebrate 57 years of inspiring young women during the Distinguished Young Women National Finals. Check out the ten finalists as they compete in fitness, talent and self-expression and enjoy performances from Nicole Renard, Distinguished Young Woman of America for 2013.

 

Cost: Tickets for the Distinguished Young Women Preliminaries and National Finals are $82.50 for all three nights. Individual night tickets are also available.

 

For more information Click Here or to purchase tickets or call 431-0063.

 

 

MOBILE FIRE-RESCUE JOB EXPO

   

When: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 28

Where: Mobile Fire-Rescue Department Training Academy, 860 Owens Street, Mobile

 

The Mobile Fire-Rescue Department is hosting a job expo for men and women 18 years of age or older, who are interested in a career in the fire service. This is the first event of its kind in Mobile, which will allow participants the ability to go through several hands-on job performance stations and to introduce them to the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT). A representative from the Mobile County Personnel Board will be onsite to answer any application questions. Though this is not an offer of employment, it is the first step towards becoming eligible to take the firefighter entrance exam.

For more information on Mobile Fire-Rescue Click Here.

 

 


CELEBRATE FREEDOM EVENT
 
When: 4:30 p.m. Thursday, July 3
Where: Mary G. Montgomery High School, 4275 Snow Road, Semmes

Celebrate Freedom is a one-day event for the whole family featuring a car show, a kid-zone, hot air balloon rides, a craft show, live music by Mark Harris and fireworks sponsored by the City of Semmes.

For more information Click Here to view the event's website.


MOBILE POPS INDEPENDENCE DAY CONCERT
 
When: 7 p.m. Friday, July 4
Where:
USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park, Causeway, Mobile

Come and enjoy live music by the Mobile Pops under the direction of David Dueitt. Following the concert, a fireworks display will begin at 9 p.m.

For more information Click Here to visit the Mobile Pops website.
 

For additional information on City of Mobile events Click Here.

diMOBILE COUNTY COMMUNITIES' NEWSLETTER LINKS   

Click Here to view the Town Crier, the official news of Dauphin Island from Mayor Jeff Collier and the Town Council. 
 


Click Here to view the official newsletter of the Tillman's Corner Chamber of Commerce.

 

 

 

Click Here to view the latest newsletter from the Downtown Mobile Alliance. 

 DISTRICT 2 ROAD PROJECTS UPDATEroad 

Current District 2 road projects are moving along toward completion. Click Here to view a complete list of ongoing road projects in Mobile County Commission District 2.

seniorcenterSEMMES SENIOR CENTER NEWSLETTER  

Click Here for the latest edition.
 Click Here for the June activities calendar.
Semmes Senior Center
9635 Moffett Road, Semmes, Alabama
financeMOBILE COUNTY FINANCIAL UPDATE
Through April we have completed 58% of the fiscal year. Our year-to-date revenue through April 2014 is $83,861,428.98. This represents 68.77% of budgeted FY2014 revenue. Receipt for many of our major revenues lags by one month. Most of the property tax revenue and business license revenue is collected in December and January. The positive variance in Miscellaneous Revenue is due to the sale of property. The year-to-date expenditures through April are $67,891,593.60. This is 53.42% of total budgeted expenditures for the fiscal year. We expect expenditures to be below 58% on this report. The Health, Welfare and Education categories are primarily appropriations that are paid quarterly. Through April both expenditures and revenues are within expected ranges.

Click Here to view the latest financial update.
kudosKUDOS & CONGRATULATIONS
Graduation
Congratulations to all 2014 Mobile County District 2 graduates! Best Wishes!

Every animal at the Mobile County Animal Shelter was adopted out at the Maddie's Fund Adoption Event the weekend of May 31. Fifty seven animals were adopted from the county and almost 500 from all the shelters in the Mobile area. Thank you to all of the partners, particularly ASPCA and Janine Woods for masterminding this event.

 

Congratulations to Beth Marietta Lyons, recipient of the Mobile Bar Association's Women Lawyers 2014 "Trailblazer" award. Commissioner Hudson is pictured with (L to R) Beth Marietta Lyons and State Representative Margie Wilcox. 

 

 

Congratulations to United States Coast Guard (USCG) Captain Tom Maine who will be retiring on June 13. Captain Maine most recently served as the Commanding Officer of the USCG Aviation Training Center on Tanner Williams Road in West Mobile since 2011. Thank you Captain Maine for your service to our country and to our local community. Best Wishes! 

 

 

 meetings MOBILE COUNTY UPCOMING COMMISSION MEETINGS 

Commission Regular Meeting
When: 10 a.m. Monday, June 9
Where: Government Plaza Auditorium

Combined Commission Conference and Regular Meetin
When: 10 a.m. Thursday, June 19
Where: Government Plaza Auditorium  

Combined Commission Conference and Regular Meetin
When: 10 a.m. Thursday, July 10
Where: Government Plaza Auditorium


Commission Conference Meeting 
When: 9 a.m. Thursday, July 24
Where: Government Plaza Multi-Purpose Room

Commission Regular Meeting 
When: 10 a.m. Monday, July 28
Where: Government Plaza Auditorium

Click Here for more information and to view the agendas for the above meetings as they are posted.  
CONTACT COMMISSIONER HUDSON
   Commissioner Connie Hudson
   Mobile County Commission
   P.O. Box 1443
   Mobile, Alabama 36633
   Office: (251) 574-2000
   Office Fax:
(251) 574-2001

   Mailing Address:
205 Government Street, 10th Floor
   Mobile, Alabama 36602