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Pittsburgh Courier NEW
VOL. 107, NO. 43
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OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016
INSIDE
Doyle on his record and his opponent MIKE DOYLE
Voters Guide 2016 Special Section
LENNY McALLISTER
MIKE DOYLE
Doyle and McAllister trade shots at Great Debate by Christian Morrow
challenger Lenny McAllister began with Doyle saying he is proud to serve the disCourier Staff Writer trict, having brought in $75 million to the district, and wants to continue to do so. While all was pleasant and civil during McAllister immediately fired the first volwelcoming remarks from host Tim Stevens ley by asking the audience if their lives, of the Black Political Empowerment Proschools neighborhoods and career opportuject, a description of the event by League of nities have gotten any better during the 22 Women Voters President Annette Shimer, years Doyle has represented the district. an introduction of moderator and KDKA “Is this as good as it’s going to get, or can Money and Politics Editor John Delano by we have more,” he asked. Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh PresDoyle said that when he worked with the ident and CEO Esther Bush, and even TIM STEVENS (Bill) Clinton administration the district through statements supporting Josh prospered, it was only under Republican Shapiro for Attorney General by Dr. Cyril Wecht, and Katie McGinty by John Fetterman, it President George W. Bush that the district and redidn’t extend much further—even though it was gion began “bleeding” jobs. “You ask any legislator, Republican or Democrat, graciously hosted by the Church of the Reconciliawhether I’ve worked with both parties to make tion. The Great Debate between veteran incumbent SEE DEBATE A4 U.S. Rep. Mike Doyle, D-Pa., and his Republican
MILT WASHINGTON
Businessman, philanthropist Washington dead at 81 by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
Though he’d agreed to appear at an Oct. 26 candidate’s forum, U.S. Rep. Mike Doyle, D-Pa., had no idea it was being promoted as a debate between himself and his Republican challenger Lenny McAllister—because, frankly, he doesn’t consider his opponent much of a challenge, let alone one deserving a debate. “I only did this because B-PEP (the Black Political Empowerment Project) asked me. Then I see this flier calling it The Great Debate,” he told the New Pittsburgh Courier editorial board recently. “This is not a competitive race and not one I’m spending any money on.” In his first two elections, 1994 and 1996, Doyle faced down Republican challengers who both garnered more than 40 percent of SEE RECORD A4
A push for foster care for teens at TRAC
Sheridan Broadcasting founder Ron Davenport Sr. knew Milt Washington when both were kids in Philadelphia. He was there when Milt and his wife, Nancy, moved here in 1968, and he was there at the end, too. “I was there when he died. And while it wasn’t unexpected, it still hurts. We’d been friends since high school—we were like family,” said Davenport. “He was a great, down-to-earth guy, a dear friend who had a fabulous career and made tremendous contributions to this city in so many ways. His Beacon Construction Company was aptly named because he was a beacon of hope to a lot of people.”
by Paige Mitchell For New Pittsburgh Courier
STAFF MEMBERS—Three Rivers Adoption Council staff members.
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A wise man once said, “We cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future.” “There are more than 3,000 children ages 10 and up that are listed as foster care youth and in need of permanent homes and help. The statistics of homelessness happening in our own backyards is incredibly high, and demands our efforts. It is important that we create lasting solutions to homelessness by addressing not only emergency needs, but
also by dealing with the underlying issues facing our children,” said Chief Executive Officer Jacqueline D. Wilson. “Three Rivers Adoption Council (TRAC) has served as Pennsylvania’s foremost resource for adoption information, referral services, support, and education. As we grow, we will continue to spread our mission of improving adoption opportunities for children awaiting permanency throughout the state of Pennsylvania.” TRAC recognizes the imporSEE FOSTER A5
Homewood-Brushton YMCA cuts ribbon on new youth center by Christian Morrow
tion kitchen where the next B. Smith might whip up healthy meals, a high-tech flexible classroom for tomorrow’s Internet entrepreneurs, and much more. The celebration was sponsored by YMCA partners Remake Learning, APOST and BMe Community. “At the YMCA, our commitment to youth development means that we care deeply about nurturing children’s physical, mental and emotional growth,” said YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh President and CEO Kevin Bolding. “The Creative Youth Center is
Courier Staff Writer
In January, the HomewoodBrushton YMCA began a $6.5 million comprehensive renovation project that would result in a new facility called the Creative Youth Center. On Oct. 20, the Y celebrated the completion of Phase 1 of the project with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Funded through a $1.52 million grant from The Heinz Endowments, the facility now boasts a music studio where Pittsburgh’s future musical stars might record their first singles, a demonstra-
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POPULAR GROUP BRAKES IN NEW STAGE—INK, a Lighthouse music group, performs on the new stage during the celebration of the YMCA’s new Creative Youth Center. (Photo by J.L. Martello)
Louis ‘Hop’ Kendrick asks
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INTERNATIONAL
OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016 NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
This Week In Black History
Week of Oct. 26-Nov. 2 October 26 1749—The British parliament legalizes slavery in the American colony, which would become known as Georgia. 1806—Benjamin Banneker dies at 74. He had become a recognized inventor and scientist. He also completed the design and layout of Washington, D.C., after L’Enfant returned to France. 1868—B.F. Randolph, a prominent Black politician in South Carolina after the Civil War, is assassinated. He was believed to have been killed by former Confederate soldiers seeking to re-establish White racist rule in the state via terrorist organizations such as the Ku Klux Klan. 1872—Inventor T. Marshal patents the fire extinguisher. 1911—Famed gospel singer Mahalia Jackson is born in New Orleans, La. She is generally consid- BENJAMIN BANNEKER ered the greatest gospel singer that ever lived. October 27 1891—Inventor P.B. Downing patents the street letter mailbox whose basic design remains in use today. Not much HIP-HOP STAR—Akon, R&B artist and co-founder, Akon Lighting Africa initiative. (AP Photo/File) is known about Downing. 1960—President John F. Kennedy intervenes to get Martin Luther King Jr. released from the Georgia State Prison in Reidsville, where he had been imprisoned because of his civil rights activities. The Kennedy action endeared him to Black voters. 1981—Former United Nations MAHALIA JACKSON Ambassador Andrew Young is elected mayor of Atlanta, Ga., becoming the city’s second Black mayor. October 28 1798—Levi Coffin, who is White, is born in the slave state disagreed with those who argue the by Jonathan Paye-Layleh of North Carolina but becomes a strong opponent of slavery. government should be responsible for Associated Press Writer He and his wife, Catherine, are credited with being among everything. the original founders of the “Underground Railroad”—the MONROVIA, Liberia (AP)—Senega“A lot of people don’t realize that it’s system of transports and safe houses that enabled Blacks to lese-American hip-hop star Akon is the people that develop countries,’’ he escape slavery in the South to freedom in the North. endorsing Liberia’s plan to outsource said. “All government does is to try to October 29 oversight of its primary education sysmanage the process, and in Africa we 1929—The Stock Market collapses ushering in the Great tem to a Kenya-based for-profit company, have a tendency of thinking that the ANDREW YOUNG Depression bringing about Black unemployment rates a decision that some local educators government does it all for us.’’ ranging from 25 to 40 percent. The effects of the Great Depression would last until the have denounced. The singer is partnering with Bridge start of World War II which created massive war industry jobs and a second mass migraThis West African nation six months International Academies on a program tion of Blacks from the South to the industrial North. ago unveiled plans to allow Bridge Inthat promotes expanding electricity to 1994—Famed dancer Pearl Primus dies. She blended Afternational Academies to write curricula increase learning opportunities. rican and Caribbean dance and music with Black American and train teachers. Some Liberian edAkon said he became convinced of the traditions of blues, jazz and the jitterbug to form a new viucators say this small country of about need to invest in power in Africa when, brant dance form. She formed a dance troupe and she per4 million should focus on improving after living for 20 years in the U.S., he sonally appeared in such early Broadway hits as “Showboat” salaries and not cede control of schools traveled to Senegal to find his grandand “Emperor Jones.” Primus was known for her amazingly to outsiders. mother still using candles. high leaps. In 1991, the first President Bush awarded her the But Liberian officials argue that rad“A wake-up call like that makes you National Medal of Arts. ical reforms are needed. In 2013, Pressay, `OK, it just doesn’t make sense how 2009—A report is published suggesting that the old selfident Ellen Johnson Sirleaf described 20 years can pass by and the condition hate mantra of “I am Black enough; I don’t need any sunshine” the education system as “a mess’’ after doesn’t change,’’ he said. could be shortening the lives of African-Americans. Dr. Jonall 25,000 students failed the entrance Bridge International Academies, which athan Mansbach’s report found, among other things, that exams for the University of Liberia. has received $10 million in backing from American Blacks are not getting enough sunshine or more In an interview with The Associated Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, also specifically, vitamin D—the sunshine vitamin. Mansbach disPress on Oct. 20, Akon said the outside works in other African countries such as PEARL PRIMUS covered, for example, that an astonishing 90 percent of Black partnership could be helpful, and he Uganda. children were vitamin D deficient. Vitamin D deficiency can contribute to various cancers, diabetes and weak bones. October 30 1831—Minister and mystic Nat Turner, leader of the bloodiest slave revolt in U.S. history, is captured in South Hampton County, Va. The uprising took place Aug. 21 and 22 of the same year and left 55 Whites dead. Turner was hanged and then skinned on Nov. 11. 1954—The U.S. Department of Defense announces the official end of all segregated military regiments in the armed forces. 1966—The Black Panther Party is founded in California by Huey Newton and Bobby Seale. The full name was ABUJA, Nigeria (AP)— the group at Wednesday’s Buhari said they would the Black Panther Party for Self Defense. It was formed in Nigeria’s president on Oct. be reintegrated into sociceremony. “We are happy major measure to bring attention to and combat brutality 19 vowed to “redouble’’ ef- ety “as quickly as possito see this wonderful day against Blacks by the Los Angeles Police Department. forts to secure the release because we didn’t know ble.’’ 1974—Muhammad Ali defeats George Foreman for of nearly 200 schoolgirls that we would come back,’’ Some 276 girls were the heavyweight boxing title. The fight took place in Zaire who remain missing more kidnapped from a school she said, adding that (now the Congo) and was billed as the “Rumble in the Junthan two years after being in the northeast town of she was praying for the gle.” abducted by Boko Haram Chibok in April 2014. Doz- release of the others. 1991—BET Holdings, Inc. sells 4.2 million shares of extremists. Not all may want to come ens escaped early on, and stock in an initial public offering becoming the first Black President Muhammadu another was found in May. home. More than 100 of company listed on the New York Stock Exchange. Founder Buhari met for the first the schoolgirls appear Last week marked the Bob Johnson has since sold the company to the media gitime with the 21 Chibok unwilling to leave their first negotiated release of NAT TURNER ant Viacom. schoolgirls who were captors, perhaps because any of the schoolgirls. 2002—One of the original released last week after they have been radicalOne of the schoolgirls, founders of modern rap music Jam Master Jay of the negotiations with Boko ized by Boko Haram or Rebecca Malu, delivered group Run-DMC was killed in a shooting at his New York Haram. brief remarks on behalf of are ashamed to return recording studio. He was 37. His group, Run-DMC, was a because they have marmajor force attracting young Whites to rap music. ried extremists and have October 31 babies, Chibok community 1517—Revolutionary Christian leader Martin Luther leader Pogu Bitrus has posted his famed 95 Theses on the door of Wittenberg Paltold The Associated Press. ace in Germany setting off the Protestant Reformation The president said the against the Catholic Church. It is believed the parents of government will assume American Civil Rights Movement icon Martin Luther King responsibility for the Jr. named him after Martin Luther. However, King’s origischoolgirls’ personal, edunal name was “Michael” and was later changed to “Martin.” cational and professional 1820—(circa) Irish Catholics bring Halloween to goals. America where it first gains popularity among the lower “These dear daughters of MUHAMMAD ALI classes and becomes heavily influenced by both American ours have seen the worst Indian and Black American (slave) superstitions. that the world has to 1896 (or 1900)—Actress and singer Ethel Waters is born in Chester, Pa. She became offer,’’ Buhari said. “It is one of the nation’s best known jazz and gospel singers. Waters was born to a 12-year-old now time for them to exBlack girl who had been raped by a White man. perience the best that the November 1 world can do for them.’’ 1604—William Shakespeare’s great play “Othello” was first performed at Whitehall Palace in London. It is the earliest known European play with a Black lead character. THE 1866—America’s first Civil Rights Act is passed over the veto NEW PITTSBURGH of President Andrew Johnson. In part, it was Johnson’s opposition COURIER to such pro-Black legislation that led a group called the “Radical Republicans” to seek his impeachment. Johnson had become presPUBLISHING COMPANY ident after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln and adopted a Publication No.: USPS 381940 wide-range of anti-Black policies. 1910—Scholar and political activist W.E.B. DuBois published 315 East Carson Street the first issue of the NAACP’s monthly magazine “Crisis.” DuBois Pittsburgh, PA 15219 would later break with the NAACP charging that its approach to ETHEL WATERS ending discrimination against Black was too “gradualist.” Phone: 412-481-8302 1945—The first issue of Ebony Magazine was published in Chicago by founder John Fax: 412-481-1360 H. Johnson. Johnson died in September 2005. The magazine and its sister publication, Jet, are now facing financial difficulties and may be purchased by a group of non-Blacks. The 1991—Clarence Thomas takes his seat on the United States Supreme Court after New Pittsburgh Courier a prolonged controversy over his alleged sexual harassment of former co-worker Anita Hill. Thomas would go on to disappoint much of Black America by rendering votes on is published weekly major issues, which many leading African-American felt were anti-Black. 1999—Chicago Bears running back great Walter Payton dies of cancer at the age of periodicals 45. His power and grace on the football field led to his nickname “Sweetness.” paid at Pittsburgh, Pa. November 2 PRICE $1.00 1889—The last great African king is crowned. Menelik II became “Negusa Nagast” (King of Kings) of Abyssinia (Ethiopia). At that time Abyssinia included not only present day Ethiopia but parts of Kenya, Somalia and the Sudan. European colonialism would (Payable in advance) weaken and reduce the size of the kingdom. Menelik could trace his heritage back to 6 Months.....$25 King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba of the Christian Bible. 1903—Maggie L. Walker opens the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank in Richmond, Va. 1 Year....$45 Walker was one of the most accomplished business women in Black American history 2 Years...&85 having founded a bank, a newspaper, other businesses and a political party known as the Lily Black. Constant refrain in her speeches was “Let us put our money together… 9 Month School Rate $35 and reap the benefits.” 1930—Haile Selassie is crowned emperor of Ethiopia after the death of Ethiopian POSTMASTER: Send Empress Zawditu. Tracing his lineage back to the Bible’s King Solomon and the Queen address changes to: of Sheba, some Blacks (most notably the Jamaican Rastafarians) consider him a god. Selassie’s name prior to being crowned emperor was Raz Tafari. New Pittsburgh Courier 1983—Conservative Republican President Ronald Reagan signs the law that designates the third Monday in January as Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Shortly after the 315 East Carson Street signing he angers some Blacks when in response to a reporter’s question he suggests Pittsburgh, PA 15219 that King may have been a communist.
Akon backs Liberia schools’ partnership with firm
Nigeria’s leader meets 21 schoolgirls, vows to free the rest
NATIONAL
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016
Black Women will elect the next president by Freddie Allen
NNPA Newswire Managing Editor
Black women will play a key role in electing the next president, according to a recent report by the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO). Carmen Berkley, the director of civil, human and women’s rights policy at the AFL-CIO, said that the labor group wanted to provide context to the power that Black women voters have displayed over the past two presidential election cycles. In the briefing paper, researchers provided a case for why labor unions and non-profit organizations should be paying attention to Black women. “Without Black women, President Obama would not have won the White House in 2012,” said Berkley. “Black women voters delivered in key battleground states like Ohio, Pennsylvania and Florida where President Obama picked up 67 additional electoral votes.” Berkley continued, “If Black women had not turned out, President Obama would have been five electoral votes shy of winning the presidency.” Denise Rolark Barnes, the publisher of The Washington Informer and chairwoman of the NNPA, said that Black women voters could make a monumental difference in the outcome of the 2016 election, just like they did in 2012. But Barnes also expressed concerns that neither of the presidential candidates have touched on the issues that are important to Black women and single parents, who are also the primary breadwinners in their families; issues like health care, education and the environment are very important to Black women and their families. “I don’t think we’ve heard enough from the candidates about how they plan to address issues that affect Black and Latino families,” Barnes said. Berkley said that Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump has said that he knows the Black community, but he hasn’t proven that he understands the impact that Black people, especially Black women, have on society. “Black women drive turnout for the Black community,” said Berkley. “We care a lot about police reform, raising the minimum wage, protecting social security and we are economically liberal when it come to the government.” Berkley also noted that Black women have been very reliable voters in the past two election cycles. In 2012 and 2014, Black women voted at higher rates than other women.
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en union members have stepped up in remarkable ways. “Not only are they organizing inside of their unions, they are organizing the Black community around vote registration efforts,” said Talley. And when Black women take on leadership roles, they have the power to significantly affect elections inside their unions. The briefing paper states, “As labor scholars Kate Bronfenbrenner and Dorian Warren found in their oft-cited study ‘Race, Gender, and the Rebirth of Trade Unionism,’ unions won 89 percent of elections where Black women were the lead organizers compared with 53 percent for female organizers overall and 42 percent for male organizers.” The briefing paper states that as the labor movement grows, it should look to Black communities and Black women organizers as a potential base for power. “This requires incorporating Black communities into long-term strategic thinking and lifting up the most progressive voice of the Democratic base,” it states. “For organized labor and other parts of the political left, Black women CLINTON SUPPORTERS—Supporters listen to First Lady Michelle Obama as she speaks during a cam- are a smart investment, in 2016 and paign rally for Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton Thursday, Oct. 20, 2016, in Phoenix. beyond.” (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin) Barnes said that Black women hold the power of the vote and also have the ion and political strategy research firm, influence in their households to make Berkley said that Black women do Black workers are far more likely to sure their families and friends get out more than vote. view labor unions favorably (77 percent to vote. “We’re very active in our churches, for Blacks vs. 50 for all-respondents) Barnes continued, “We need to come we’re very active in our communities out strong, like we did before, and make and we’re very active in our unions,” she compared to other workers. Petee Talley, the secretary-treasurer the difference we know we can make in said. of the Ohio branch of the AFL-CIO, said November.” According to a survey by Lake Rethat evidence shows that Black womsearch Partners, a leading public opin-
How AP rates the presidential race and the Road to 270 by Emily Swanson Associated Press Writer
WASHINGTON (AP)—With the three presidential debates complete, and amid a steady stream of allegations and revelations about Donald Trump’s treatment of women, the Republican nominee’s poll numbers are casting doubt on his ability to win some traditionally GOP states. The Associated Press this week moves Arizona, where recent polls have shown a close race and early vote numbers appear positive for the Democratic nominee, to a toss-up. The AP also moves Texas and Alaska, where surveys have suggested unexpectedly narrow gaps between Trump and Clinton, to leaning Republican. Virginia moves to solidly Democratic.
Recent polls show a double-digit lead there for the Democratic nominee, whose campaign has pulled resources out of defending the state. The analysis is of the map as it stands today. It considers preference polling, recent electoral history, demographic trends and campaign priorities such as advertising, travel and on-the-ground staff. Clinton continues to hold a clear lead over Trump nationally, and her current advantage in battleground states would be enough to give her an electoral college victory in November. SOLID DEMOCRATIC: California, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon,
Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and Washington state (213 total electoral votes). LEANS DEMOCRATIC: Colorado, Michigan, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin (59 total electoral votes). TOSS-UP: Arizona, Florida, Maine 2nd District, Nebraska 2nd District, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio and Utah (87 total electoral votes). LEANS REPUBLICAN: Alaska, Georgia, Iowa, Missouri and Texas (73 total electoral votes). SOLID REPUBLICAN: Alabama, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, West Virginia and Wyoming (106 total electoral votes).
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OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
METRO
Businessman, philanthropist Washington dead at 81 CONTINUED FROM A1
Washington, who parlayed a vice presidency with the Allegheny Rehabilitation Housing Company into a business empire that included ownership of that firm, a construction company, sheet metal and roofing businesses, real estate and investment capital firms, died Oct. 22, less than a month after his 81st birthday. Though he built his fortune by building much of the affordable housing properties and communities throughout Pittsburgh, he is more often remembered for his charitable donations and fundraising ef-
forts aimed at strengthening small and Black-owned businesses, and community institutions. “He set the bar on how we should carry ourselves, and he’ll be missed,“ said African American Chamber of Commerce of Western Pennsylvania President and CEO Doris Carson Williams. “He was a charter member of the chamber, and a corporate sponsor for 15 years. He was a small business advocate—because he didn’t start out big, and made major contributions to African American businesses in the area. He was a great philanthropist—he and Nancy
made major contributions to the August Wilson Center. He was a good soldier.” Washington spearheaded a capital campaign that raised $5.1 million for the Hill House Association, and led the One in A Million drive that raised $1 million for the August Wilson Center, also contributing $700,000 for the center’s theater. He and his wife also established the Nancy and Milton Washington Fund of the Pittsburgh Foundation and a Gallery at the Carnegie Museum of Art. Washington also provided annual scholarships to youth identified by the Pittsburgh branch of the NAACP and A.N. Minney
Doyle, McAllister trade shots at Great Debate CONTINUED FROM A1
Pittsburgh better, there isn’t one who’ll say I haven’t,” said Doyle. “But here we have someone who, if he is elected, said he wouldn’t work with Hillary because she’s corrupt. I’ve worked with Republicans and I’ve brought resources to the Hill District, to the Mon Valley, to Rankin.” McAllister countered that while that may be so, the Black unemployment rate in the Mon Valley is 14 percent, in Rankin is 15 percent and in McKeesport is 20 percent. “I don’t doubt you worked hard, but I’m still seeing unemployment in double digits,” said McAllister. “I’m still seeing the disparities between young and old, rich and poor, Black and White when it comes to education, employment and economics. If your hard work for 22 years only has us to this point, what else do we need to do because it seems like you’re tapped out.” Doyle replied, “I’m sure if you’re elected you’ll turn this around in a year or two. Am I satisfied, no we need some federal help, if your party weren’t obstructing President Obama at every turn, we’d get some.” “But you’re supposed to be skilled enough after 22 years in politics to get around such obstructions and bring people together,” said McAllister. “If you can’t, then what makes you think years 23 and 24 would be any different?” “I’m skilled enough to bring $75 million to this district,” said Doyle. “I’m sorry I’m not the benevolent dictator who can make magic happen overnight. I’m not responsible for 22 years of national policy but I’ve worked to make Pittsburgh prosper and I
want everyone’s children to prosper.” The candidates sparred over education, with Doyle saying schools need to tailor their curricula more to the needs of the job market, adding that he has funded training programs to do just that. McAllister said he favors school choice, noting that pubic schools have always tried to match what the job sector needed. On abortion, though Doyle is pro choice and McAllister pro-life, both agreed that their goal is to make abortions rare. On gun control, Doyle said he was proud to stage a sit-in with Rep. John Lewis in an attempt to reauthorize an assault weapons ban, get expanded background checks and pass no-fly, no-buy legislation to keep people on the no-fly list from buying guns. McAllister said, “As a survivor of gun violence, with a wife that’s a survivor and a father that’s a survivor, let me tell you a little bit: it’s not legal gun owners that are killing people—it’s people using illegal guns because the economy is no good in their community, the schools are no good, and they can’t get access to jobs.” On Obamacare, Doyle said Republicans have blocked every attempt to fix the legislation, though he himself prefers a single payer health insurance solution. McAllister said the ACA is already selflimiting because unpopular features like the Cadillac tax on union policy were left out, as was the tax on medical devices, which seniors opposed. He said it should be replaced by a system that fosters competition—which will drive down prices. (J.L.Martello contributed to this story.)
scholarships at the Rankin Christian Center. He established property management, maintenance, and construction training on the job at ARHCO and Beacon. Washington donated computers to the Mon View Heights Housing Community and assisted the Carnegie Institute in bringing art education to Black youngsters. He also funded scholarships at Point Park University. “The tears just rolled when I heard he had died,” said Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh President and CEO Esther Bush. “Not just because he was a friend, but because of what he stood for. The Washington family was an Urban League family—he was former board chair and his daughter, Lara, just rotated off the board. There
are just a few families in African American community that mean a lot to the whole city—he and Nancy were one.” In addition to the Chamber and Urban League, Washington also served on the boards of the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh, the Allegheny Conference on Community Development, the United Way of Allegheny County, the Greater Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield and PNC. He was also a member of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland. Washington is survived by his wife; daughters, Linda, a New York physician, and Lara, president of AHRCO; granddaughters, Courtney and Zoe; grandsons; Kendall and Tanner; sons-in-law Gre-
gory Armstrong and Ken Spruill; and cousins, Barbara Willis, William Kinchelow and their families. Donations in lieu of flowers may be sent to the Greater Pittsburgh YMCA, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in honor of Dr. William Follansbee, and the August Wilson Legacy Fund of the Pittsburgh Foundation. Family will receive guests Thursday, Oct. 27 from 12– 1:45 p.m. at Calvary Episcopal Church, 315 Shady Ave., Pittsburgh, Pa., 15206. A Boule and Alpha Phi remembrance Ceremony will take place from 12 – 12:30 p.m. The funeral ceremony will begin at 2 p.m. Arrangements are courtesy of White Memorial Chapel, 412-241-7998, or WhiteMemorialChapel. com.
Doyle on his record and opponents CONTINUED FROM A1
the vote, neither of his next two challengers managed to reach 33 percent. Prior to the 2002 election, his district was redrawn to include much more of the city of Pittsburgh, and since then he has faced one Republican—she did not even reach 30 percent. “If a Republican running in this district got more than 20 percent, I’d be surprised,” he said. And though he continued to say it isn’t a race, Doyle addressed one of McAllister’s main criticisms—that he has a “thin” record. That, said Doyle, exemplifies how little McAllister knows about the legislative process. “If you’re in the minority party, you don’t get to sponsor legislation,” he explained. “The best you can do is write amendments, and I’ve done that. And when we were in the majority, I’ve pushed major legislation. The Affordable Care Act was written in my committee.” Doyle also objected to the characterization that he hasn’t done anything for the Black community. He noted that, with the elimination of earmarks, the only big pots of federal funding are Transportation Infrastructure Generating Economic Recov-
ery grants and Choice Neighborhood grants distributed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and he has brought considerable amounts of each to his district, and to neighborhoods like the Hill District and East Liberty. “I got $30 million for affordable housing in Larimer, I put the first $10 million into the Energy Innovation Center and there was $150 million for the East Liberty Transit Hub,” he said. “I had the transportation secretary tour the (28-acre former) arena site, when we applied to get TIGER fund for the street grid, and he told me, ‘I’m interested in the cap idea to reconnect the neighborhood to downtown.’ I asked if that meant we should change the focus of our application,” he said. “I’m interested in the cap idea. So we changed the application and got $19 million. In the past five years, I’ve brought $45 million to the district.” That’s the kind of thing Doyle says he does, he builds partnerships and relationships that don’t always have his name on them, but they get things done—like the free coder training program being run by the Pittsburgh Academy in Allentown. “I want Pittsburgh to grow and do well,” he said. “There isn’t any part of the district I ignore.”
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
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OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016
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Homewood-Brushton YMCA cuts ribbon on new youth center CONTINUED FROM A1
an environment where students are given the tools that teach them how to collaborate with one another, motivate themselves, practice empathy and rely on their ingenuity and grit. In
JULIE MOTLEY-WILLIAMS Executive Director Homewood-Brushton YMCA
conjunction with their academic education, teaching young people these ‘soft skills’ will help them grow up to be motivated, compassionate and successful members of the community.”
KEVIN BOLDING Chair Homewood YMCA Advisory Board
Push for Foster Care for teens at TRAC CONTINUED FROM A1
tance in pushing to find permanent homes for teens and the non-profit organization is dedicated to seeing a decrease in the amount of teens who are in need of loving homes. “The need to spread love and find firm foundations for our youth is crucial,” she said. “The youth are crying out to us for help, and this issue requires our attentiveness. The church is the chief place for spiritual edification and growth. And if we approach adversities wisely, our hardest times can become the times of our greatest growth,” Wilson said. “The main hope of a nation lies in proper education and upbringing of its youth,” said TRAC recruiter Khalilah Brandon. “Teens are the future. It’s time that we step up and face the fact that our youth needs us.”
TRAC is viewed statewide as the highest quality provider of innovative family-focused adoption services with an emphasis on African American and special needs children as measured by our key stakeholders: children and families, employees, funders, member and peer agencies, and all levels of government. While the mission of TRAC is to create and provide adoption opportunities and a range of services for all children growing up without permanent, caring families. “Since 1979 TRAC has worked so that no child will have to face a life without permanency, and today in 2016 our intentions are not only the same but greater because we are intentional about finding homes for children,” Wilson concluded.
MULTI PURPOSE ROOM—One of the interactive rooms where one can use the computer, write on the new chalkboard, take photos, Dee Jay, etc. (Photos by J. L. Martello_
JAMES BROWN Director of Youth Development
The Creative Youth Center idea grew out of the success of the HomewoodBrushton YMCA’s Lighthouse Project at Westinghouse High School. The program supplements students’ education by introducing them to creative arts projects, including digital media, filmmaking and visual arts. The completion of Phase 1 will allow the Y to move the Lighthouse Program from Westinghouse High School to the YMCA and serve more students. The Y will also use the new center to expand Y Creator Space, a youth program that helps students apply science,
ability to pick yourself up and move on after failure.” When completed, Phases 2 and 3 will bring more inspiring amenities online, including a film lab, a 75-seat black-box theater, a visual arts, sculpture, fashion and graphic design lab, and a “maker space” equipped with 3-D printing equipment, and robotics development and assembly. Additional plans call for a computer lab, expanded urban garden, a basketball court, a new outdoor plaza for gatherings and performances, and a youth employment center.
technology, engineering, art and math skills to complete projects. The center houses stateof-the-art new equipment dedicated to both programs, including a music education suite and recording studio, teaching artist lounge, a commercial kitchen with demonstration area, hightech flexible classroom and expanded community space for Y programs for individuals, families and seniors. During the tour of the new facilities, guests could also hear demonstrations on the new equipment by participants from Youth Express, Pittsburgh Black Media Federation, Assemble, Bible
NEW RECORDING BOOTH
THROUGH OCT. 27—From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., every Thursday. This season will see the addition of 10 new full and part-time vendors including Two Acres Farms, A519 Chocolate and Pittsburgh Fudge Co. Again this year, Just Harvest’s Fresh Access program will allow credit/debit and food stamp EBT cards to be used to purchase fresh produce, meat, dairy and baked goods.
Haunted Mansion THROUGH OCT. 31—Pittsburgh’s scariest haunted house, the Hundred Acres Mansion at South Park, is now open from 7 p.m. nightly, featuring six attractions and escape rooms. Experience why Hundred Acres Manor Haunted House has been named “One of The Best Haunted Houses in America.” For complete schedules and tickets, visit www.hundredacresmanor.com.
Flu Vaccine Clinic Opens
Halloween Cruises OCT 28—Second Chance Prom Dance With The Dead: Join TJ the DJ spinning the hits from the 80’s to 2016! It will be a thrilling night of music, dancing contests and games with chances to win tickets to see DAYA, TWENTY-ONE PILOTS, SHAWN MENDES and more! Call 412-355-7980 for details.
Boo N Brew OCT 29—BOO N BREW: Come on down to an extended Halloween Party on the dock and out on the water, starting at 6:00 pm for free psychic and tarot card readings, and prizes. At 8 pm, the party hits the water with the band “Walk of Shame” playing all your favorites hits. Don’t forget to wear your Halloween costumes for your chance to win great prizes including concert and event tickets, and a grand prize of a $1500 Green Apple Barter Travel Certificate. Call 412-355-7980 for details.
Community Trauma Forum
ONGOING—The Allegheny County Department of Health is now offering seasonal flu and high dose flu immunizations. The vaccines are available at the walk-in immunization clinic located at 3441 Forbes Avenue in Oakland – on the third floor. The immunization clinic will be open weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., except for Wednesdays, when the clinic hours are 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. No appointment is necessary. The price of the regular seasonal flu shot is $26 for anyone with insurance. The high dose is $47. A limited supply of flu vaccine will be available, at no cost, to uninsured and underinsured residents of Allegheny County. Please call 412-578-8060 to see if you or your child qualifies.
OCT. 29—The Community Empowerment Association will host the first in a series of forums on community mental health, 12 p.m., 7120 Kelly Street. The series will examine educational and solutions-based approaches to mental well-being, including workshops and presentations to address community health and wellness. For more information call 412-371-3689.
Women Achievers Reception
Coat Drive
OCT. 28—Talk Magazine will honor its 2016 Women Achievers with a reception and ceremony, 5:30-8 p.m. at the Marriott Pittsburgh City Center, 112 Washington Place, Uptown. For more information, call 412-823-4007.
Gateway Clipper Fleet
NCM Awards 2016 NOV. 4 –NCM Life Achievement and Legendary Award recipients this year are: Joe Preston, Sylvia Wilson, Edward Tibbs and Oscar Petite. The event will be held at the Rivers Club Ballroom at 6 p.m. For more information call 412-9831866, 412-731-6607 or online at www.ncmawards2016.com NOV. 16 & 19—East End Cooperative Ministries will hold its annual coat drive distribution at 6140 Station Street in East Liberty. Anyone wishing to donate, or to volunteer with set up and organization on NOV. 14 & 15, contact Tracy Hudson at 412345-7124 or by email at tracyh@eecm.org.
(J.L. Martello contributed to this story.)
Corrections
Community Calendar Market Square Farmers Market
Center Church, Homewood Children’s Village, 91.3 WYEP Reimagination Media, Higher Achievement Pittsburgh, and Beatmaking by DJ Thermos. Youth Development Director James Brown said the ideas is to spark imagination and drive. “We want to create a community of young people who have the freedom and resources to pursue projects that ignite their passion,” he said. “These projects are designed to teach students two lessons that are key to success in life: the satisfaction of earning success through hard work, and the
“Burrell looks to pay it forward for the homeless” in Oct. 19-25 edition, Pittsburgh Mercy’s Operation Safety Net was incorrectly identified as Mercy Hospital’s Operation Safety Net. Pittsburgh Mercy is part of Trinity Health, serving in the tradition of the Sisters of Mercy. It is not affiliated with UPMC or UPMC Mercy hospital. *** “Goldsmith thankful to be in Pittsburgh” in the Oct. 19-25 edition Brittny McGraw’s name was misspelled, noisy should be “nosey,” and in the stories she covered at THV, “country ordinances” should be “county” ordinances.
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OPINION
OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Faith community unites with B-PEP in fight against violence
Guest Editorial
Misguided bill on police use of force Since 2014, police shootings have led to the deaths of unarmed African Americans in places like Ferguson, Mo., Charlotte, N.C., Tulsa, Okla., Baton Rouge, La., Cleveland, Milwaukee and elsewhere. These fatal encounters and others have led to a series of national protests in addition to state and federal investigations. In light of these incidents the last thing needed is less information on the circumstances surrounding deaths caused by police-involved use of force. But Pennsylvania House Bill 1538 would put significant restrictions on the ability of police departments and other public officials to release the names of a police officer who discharges his firearm or uses force while on duty. The legislation would prohibit disclosing information of the officer involved in a shooting or an excessive use of force incident until the conclusion of an official investigation. The Senate Law & Justice Committee amended HB 1538 to add a 30-day blackout period and provide that after 30 days, identifying information may be disclosed. But this is left to the discretion of the police where they determine that there is no reasonable expectation of harm or upon the consent of the officer involved. The bill’s amendment gives complete discretion to law enforcement on whether to release an officer’s name, unless the officer is charged with a crime. The legislation is a misguided and unnecessary attempt by some Pennsylvania legislators to protect police officers. According to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Fraternal Order of Police leaders in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh could not name any incidents in which an officer or his family was harmed or threatened during an investigation of a shooting or incident involving force. The decision on what information should be released in police-involved shootings or use of force is best left up to local officials who can assess the circumstances of an individual case in their communities. When it comes to the released information, in most cases more information is better than less. The Philadelphia Tribune and the New Pittsburgh Courier join with the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association (PNA), a trade organization for Pennsylvania news media, in opposing House Bill 1538. “Police officers serve critical roles in our communities,” stated the PNA. “They also carry and use weapons that can dramatically change, or even end, a person’s life, in an instant. When a person is injured by police action, it is crucial for community members to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident. The identity of an officer, as well as the accused, is a critical piece of this understanding.” Withholding critical information from the public on controversial shootings will only heighten tensions and reduce trust between the police and the community. (Reprinted from the Philadelphia Tribune)
Founded 1910
Rod Doss Editor & Publisher Stephan A. Broadus Assistant to the Publisher Allison Palm
Ulish Carter
Jeff Marion
Office Manager
Managing Editor
Circulation Consultant
John. H. Sengstacke
Editor & Publisher Emeritus (1912-1997)
B-PEP is to be commended for their efforts to bring the many communities of faith into the battle to end both, street and domestic violence in the Black neighborhoods throughout Pittsburgh and the country. B-PEP, headed by Tim Stevens, Celeste Taylor and many other veteran and new activists, recently took the fight against street and domestic violence within the Black community to church. The church use to be the central institution of the Black community because they were not controlled by others; most ministers were paid by the church and all the expenses of the church were paid by the congregation, not the government, non-profit foundations or corporations, which allowed them to be independent. With this independence no one could control when and where they met, or what issue they deemed important. That was during the 1950s, ‘60s and ‘70s, and mostly in the South. For some reason, many so-called educated Blacks moved away from the church to the suburbs and the church moved away from social issues that affected its congregation, such as jobs, police brutality, supporting businesses in the community, family, violence in the streets and home, and most of all morality as a whole. Most of what we get in the church is that Jesus Christ died for our sins, and only when we die and meet Jesus will we have true happiness. We must die in order to have true happiness? I don’t think God put us here to suffer, but to be happy and enjoy all he has given us. It has been men/women who have created all this mess. We, as Christians, have to correct it; not stand back and do nothing. I get so tired of hearing Christians say that there’s nothing we can do here on earth, only after the coming of Jesus will there be peace on earth.
Ulish Carter
Just Sayin’ That’s living for death. I don’t want to hear it, neither do young people. You are telling me I must suffer here on earth my entire life, and I can’t, through God, bring about any change? So I should just throw up my hands and say there’s nothing I can do? What kind of God are they worshiping? The God I worship says that I can do all things through Him. So because of this kind of thinking the Black neighborhoods have become war zones of drugs, guns and death. B-PEP and other groups are saying yes we can make a change. And thanks to ministers like Bishop Loran Mann of Pentecostal Temple COGIC, in East Liberty, who provided the space for the City-Wide Interfaith Service on Violence and Civic. The meeting was a call to the churches, synagogues, mosques, Kingdom Halls, and people of faith to join forces and become familiar with the issues that create the climate of lethal behavior that threatens the safety of the entire country. We are talking about life and death in the numbers of hundreds per year, and thousands over the years, in urban cities and towns throughout this country. It is hard to find a family or individual that hasn’t been affected by it, yet, too many of us Christians and our places of worship are still waiting on Jesus to come back and fix it. We all need to pray to God for guidance and direction, and then listen for his response. Then through His
guidance, through prayer and the Bible, He will show you the right thing to do. And it’s not sitting on your butt doing nothing. God gave us all a talent and we must worship and do His work through that talent. So each of us must use that talent to stop the violence. What if the Good Samaritan had left the man on the side of the road without giving him help, like so many Christians did? Yes we must accept Christ as our savior, but we must also do his work while we are on earth. That’s not just telling people about Jesus and telling them to pray. For Jesus asked in the Bible, “what good is it to say you love me if you don’t do what I tell you to do?” I know the Bible is confusing if you try to read it from cover to cover. Try Matthew, Mark, John, Luke and Acts, first, then the rest. Use these books as your foundation. But there’s no way anyone can justify not doing anything with all hell going on in this country and the world. When we see something that goes against the Bible do we just shut up and wait for Jesus to come back? We have most of our civil and human rights as Black people because the churches––their ministers and congregations––believed that God put us here to do His work and that He made us all equal; and we weren’t going to wait for Jesus to come back to sit in the front of the bus, to have the high paying jobs, to eliminate slavery and, later, Jim Crow. Now we must stop bad police from murdering our young males and our youth from murdering each other, all while we stop our men and women from engaging in domestic violence. We must become warriors for the King, not wimps or, even worse, just observers. Waiting for Jesus to come while evil is destroying the world that God created and we say nothing. (Ulish Carter is the managing editor of the New Pittsburgh Courier.)
Why we must continue to fight efforts to suppress Black votes (NNPA)—In all democracies, the right to vote is fundamental to the legitimacy of an elected government chosen by the participatory action and will of the people eligible to vote. For 47 million Black Americans, the right to vote is a sacred responsibility without the fear of reprisal, retribution or repression. It’s 2016 and this year’s national elections in the United States are only a few days away. Yet, in many states early voting has already begun. Keep in mind in the last national presidential race in 2012, Black Americans went to the polls in record numbers with over 17.8 million casting their ballots even in face of voter suppression tactics mainly by Republican officials in various states in the Midwest, Southwest and in the South. Black America had a higher percentage turnout of voters than White voters across the nation in 2012. The Black percentage turnout was 66.2 percent versus 64.1 percent for White voters. The election results in November will ultimately be determined by the percentage of overall voter turnout. If the Black vote was not so strategically important and determinative today, you would not see the current manifestations of blatantly racist acts designed to suppress the Black vote. Such is the case today, especially in Indiana, North Carolina and in other states where Black voter turnout is key to winning the election. Indiana Governor Mike Pence, who is now aggressively campaigning to be Vice President of the United
Benjamin F. Chavis Jr.
Commentary States of America, has permitted and encouraged the Indiana State Police to target and shut down the most successful voter registration organization that has registered Blacks to vote in Indiana. The dastardly use of state police to intimidate and prevent Black people from registering to vote demands public outcry and challenge. On Oct. 4, Indiana State Police raided the headquarters of the Indiana Voter Registration Project, coordinated by a group named Patriot Majority USA in Indianapolis, Ind. The Indiana State Police shut down this voter-registration program that was helping to register tens of thousands of law-abiding, eligible Black Americans in Indiana. According to Craig Varoga, the president of Patriot Majority USA, “Mike Pence has a well-oiled political machine that is using the Indiana State Police to suppress African American votes and violate the Constitutional rights of tens of thousands of Hoosiers. This is not only voter suppression at its worst, it is an insult to all of the honest troopers in the state police, and to law enforcement officials across the country, who disapprove
of wasting precious crime-fighting resources on partisan witch hunts that further harm relations between police officers and minority communities.” In North Carolina, even after the 4th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals recently overturned the state’s severe voter suppression law, many Republican county officials across the state have established policies to limit early voting and Sunday voting that will, again, target those counties in North Carolina, where Black Americans are concentrated. But Black leaders and organizations are fighting back. Reverend Dr. William Barber, President of the North Carolina NAACP, affirmed, “We’re fighting and staying strong. Tomorrow early voting starts in North Carolina. They can register and vote the same day. We’re leading a march on the campus of North Carolina Central University and going all over the state and other HBCUs.” The ultimate antidote to Black voter suppression is to ensure a massive Black voter turnout across the nation between now and Tuesday, November 8, 2016. Let’s all work to stop racist voter suppression. We vote for freedom, justice, equality and empowerment. Follow the NNPA’s voter registration campaign on social media with #BlackVotesMatter, #BlackPressMatters, #BlackVotersPoll. (Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. is the President and CEO of the NNPA and can be reached for national advertisement sales and partnership proposals at: dr.bchavis@nnpa.org.)
Letter To The Editor
Yes Trump, there are radical Muslims and Christians, but no radical religion
Dear Editor: This Muslim-American wants Presidential candidate Donald Trump to know that he and the billion plus other Muslims in the world wish to end ISIS more than he does, because these extremists not only destroy peace in the world, but they also hijack the very name of Islam. The way to get rid of extremism is not, however, to insist that the White House use the term “radical Islamic terror.” For example, if a group of people orchestrated some of the worst atrocities in human history—such as conducting the systematic, centuries-long Spanish Inquisition, meant to brutally torture Muslims and Jews into becoming Christians or justifying the enslavement of generations of Africans in America using verses from the Bible, as has sadly occurred—they could
rightfully be called terrorists, but I would not attack the original teachings of Christianity for their wrongs. So instead of labelling Islam as a radical faith because of the misdeeds of a tiny minority of medieval Muslim renegades, I invite Trump and my fellow Americans to dialogue with their Muslim neighbors. In fact, come visit us at our weekly “Coffee, Cake, and True Islam” Open House at my Ahmadiyya Muslim Community’s Pittsburgh mosque on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. (at 747 South Avenue, Wilkinsburg, Pa.). Rather than polarizing citizens against one another, we need to work in harmony to defeat extremism. That’s how together we will truly make our country great again. Sohail Husain, MD Pittsburgh, Pa. (The author is a member of the Muslim
Writer’s Guild of America (www.muslimwriters.com) and a member of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community (www.trueislam. com).)
Letters to the editor for publication The New Pittsburgh Courier welcomes all responsible viewpoints for publication. All letters should be typewritten and contain writer’s address and phone number for verification. All letters will be edited for clarity and length. Address all letters to: Letters to the Editor New Pittsburgh Courier, 315 East Carson Street Pittsburgh, Pa. 15219 You may fax your letter to 412-4811360, or via e-mail to letters@newpittsburghcourier.com.
FORUM
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Despite GOP’s failure to reach Black voters I’m still voting for Trump (NNPA)—What the hell is going on with Blacks in this Republican Party? My phone has been ringing off the hook since last week with people from across the country asking me to explain the unexplainable. Memo to my readers: I DON’T WORK FOR THE REPUBLICAN PARTY. But, it seems everyone wants to call me to get an understanding or insight into the inner workings of some of the strategies coming out of this party from the party’s “so-called” Black operatives. First, in order to be an operative, by definition, you must know how to operate. These Blacks have little to no significant campaign experience and have absolutely no understanding of messaging and communications. Last week, I was with a Black nationally syndicated radio talk show host who is extremely liberal. He asked why the party has not brought on people like me to help with their efforts with the Black community, as opposed to suing people like me? I told him to call the party and ask them that same question. But then he said something very interesting. “They don’t want people like you [referring to me] who know what they are doing,” he said. “They want people who they can control.” I thought that was extremely insightful. Part of a true operative’s background is a thing called experience. Only through experience can one know what to do, as well as what not to do. By this party constantly bringing on people with no relevant experience, they are setting their Black surrogates up for failure. I guess this explains why I have been receiving phone calls from all over the country, especially from North Carolina, Ohio, and Florida. It seems like these Black staffers have received orders from the party to go into the Black community and ask Blacks to vote Republican, but not for Trump. Yep, you heard me correctly! Memo to Black Republicans: the Black community doesn’t make a distinction between Trump and the Republican Party; they are one in the same. You can’t have steak without meat, you can’t have basketball without the ball, you can’t watch TV without a TV. How in the world do you go into the Black com-
Raynard Jackson
Commentary munity and tell them that you are not supporting Trump’s campaign for the presidency on the Republican ticket and then turn around and ask them to vote Republican down ballot? What these Black Republicans are doing is akin to asking a person to buy a Big Mac hamburger from McDonald’s without the beef. I know, I know, that doesn’t make sense and it’s impossible; well then, you get my point, thus I rest my case. I unapologetically support Trump, because of the balance of the Supreme Court, my belief that amnesty for illegals will further exacerbate the Black unemployment rate, and our party’s establishment needs to be totally shaken up! We need totally new leadership from top to bottom on every level of the party. To me, all the other issues swirling around Trump is mere background noise. Here’s another memo to Black Republicans: If you are not supporting Trump, then why are you taking money from an organization, the Republican National Committee, whose sole purpose is to get Donald Trump elected as president? Are you that desperate for money that you are willing to sell your political soul for thirty pieces of silver? If you are not supporting Trump, then have some principle and resign immediately. One of the fundamental tenets of marketing as it applies to getting consumers to switch brands, i.e., from Democrat to Republican, is “messenger credibility.” How can you go into the Black community with credibility and ask for them to vote for Republicans down ballot, but don’t support the person at the top of the ticket? Would you support your local NAACP branch and try to distance yourself from the group’s national officers? I don’t think so. These staffers should be embarrassed to ask Black folks to buy a product that they themselves don’t even believe in. Do they really think that Blacks are that stupid? If I have to choose between making money and keeping my integrity, I will always choose keeping my integrity. I can always make more money, but I can’t get more integrity. To be honest with you, the party should fire all those involved in this diabolical scheme. This should not be allowed to stand. How can the party justify paying someone who is in opposition to its very raison d’etre? Not one of these Black staffers has publically endorsed Donald Trump; nor can you find in any public statements or in their media appearances indicating their support for Trump. When they have been challenged about this by the media, they quickly deflect to the point that they work for the party, not the Trump campaign. Again, you can’t have one without the other. The party and Trump are joined at the hip at this point. This is why these Blacks have absolutely no credibility when they go into the Black community. If they don’t even believe in the product they are selling, so how can they convince others to believe in it? (Raynard Jackson is founder and chairman of Black Americans for a Better Future, a federally registered 527 Super PAC established to get more Blacks involved in the Republican Party. BAFBF focuses on the Black entrepreneur. For more information about BAFBF, visit www.bafbf. org. You can follow Raynard on Twitter @Raynard1223.)
OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016
A7
Does television still discriminate? There was a period of time that the entire staffs of television stations were white as snow. However we bought pressure to bear and helped convince them to change their ways, and they did. They hired competent Black men and women and now they occupy positions across the gamut. Some of my best friends are White and I happened to run into one the other day whom I had not seen for a number of years. We embraced and shook hands and laughed and during our conversation we both were reminded of an important and old conversation. A number of years ago Joey said to me that I was the first colored person he ever knew. My response was that I found that difficult to believe because he was born and raised in New York, and New York had as many colored folks as Africa. Joey then replied that he had no way of knowing them because he lived in an all-White neighborhood, went to an all-White school and worshipped
Louis ‘Hop’ Kendrick
To Tell The Truth in an all-White church. He then continued by stating the only colored folks he had any idea about were the ones in the daily news. The newspaper wrote stories about colored folks being arrested for various charges and television would highlight the same persons on what they described as news. The conversation reminded me of the immense power of image making that television possesses. Politicians spend unbelievable amounts of money on television because it works. A very disturbing bit of information
was bought to my attention the other day. It was that for the first time in the history of the 14th congressional district the candidates were having a debate. What made it disturbing was that it was it is only the third time in history that a Black candidate was running and no local television was going to broadcast it. The first Black candidate, Algia Gary, ran in 1968, 48 years ago and the second was Byrd R. Brown in 1970 and now the third candidate Lenny McCallister in 2016 and that is definitely news. If an act of negativity occurs particularly in the Black community it is the story on the news around the clock. The question that we are compelled to ask is it discrimination to not consider positive history being made in the congressional race worth broadcasting? I will call the television stations this week and ask this question why don’t you do the same? (Louis “Hop” Kendrick is a contributor to the New Pittsburgh Courier.)
Suppose Nat Turner succeeded…then what? Actor Nate Parker made his directorial debut with a biopic about Nat Turner, the slave turned preacher who led the 1831 slave revolt in which his band of “freedom fighters” murdered over fifty Whites on neighboring plantations in Virginia. That’s all I’m going to say about the movie. Most know this story from Black History Month or William Styron’s novel: The Confessions of Nat Turner. But I remember when it was mentioned by a high school substitute teacher, a Black woman that incorporated tales like Nat Turner’s into every subject because she felt the public school system didn’t give Black students a sense of dignity, and she called the event the most successful slave revolt in the United States. But I knew Nat Turner got hung. Her notion of success confused me. Success is defined as the accomplishment of a goal, and when you hear “slave revolt,” you assume the goal is freedom not a body count of dead Whites. The historical record details Nat Turner’s actions, but killing slave holders doesn’t grant freedom in a slave state. Now suppose Nat Turner’s revolt lasted more than two days and he killed as many Whites as possible until the rest fled the state. (For help, of course) Then what? How were they going to obtain freedom? That detail is missing from the historical record, but it’s not missing from the record of previous slave rebellion plots that were foiled before they begun.
J. Pharoah Doss
Commentary In 1800, in the same state of Virginia, Gabriel Prosser, a hired-out, well-traveled, blacksmith, planned a slave rebellion. During his travels Prosser heard of the slave uprising in Saint-Domingue (The Haitian Revolution). Prosser was political. He ordered his men to kill all Whites except Methodist and Quaker missionaries active in manumission (The act of a slave owner freeing his or her slaves). Prosser’s plan was to invade the capital city of Richmond, take the governor hostage, and negotiate an end of slavery. In 1822 Denmark Vesey planned a slave revolt in South Carolina. Vesey was born into slavery in the Caribbean, brought to Charleston, and eventually purchased his freedom. He was a carpenter and a preacher. Vesey organized a network of over 1,000 slaves and free Blacks. They had a battle plan and an exit strategy. One unit would storm the Charleston Meeting Street Arsenal and secure weapons, another group was going to kill White slaveholders throughout the city liberating the slaves, and then they were going to converge on the harbor, commandeer ships, and sail to Haiti.
But if Nat Turner succeeded his followers would have been in the same position as the Israelites at the Red Sea. And when the Israelites saw Pharaoh’s army approaching, they asked Moses, “Why did you bring us out here? What have you done to us? It would have been better to be a slave in Egypt than a corpse in the wilderness.” So was Nat Turner going to part the Atlantic Ocean and lead the people back to Africa? If not, then what was his goal? One account suggested Turner said he wanted to spread “terror and alarm” among Whites. If that’s true, then my substitute teacher attributed success in the execution of the plan. But what does “terror and alarm” have to do with freedom? Some scholars said Turner wanted to awaken the consciousness and change the attitudes of the architects of slavery by proving violence begats violence. Maybe. But that sounds like a romanticized theory rooted in hero-worship and hero-worshippers always manipulate the motives of their heroes to justify their admiration. Since Nat Turner was known as a prophet with a special mission from God revealed to him through visions. It’s possible Nat Turner interpreted these visions as apocalyptic revelations and he secretly believed his divine purpose was to purge evil in preparation for the second coming. And if that’s the case, what on earth does that have to do with freedom? (J. Pharoah Doss is a contributor to the New Pittsburgh Courier.)
Leave him out I was overjoyed and proud of my peeps for the building of the African American History and Culture Museum in Washington. It’s long overdue if you ask me. But better late than never I guess. Anyway, silly me, I told myself that I was going to take a trip down to Washington with the Mrs., spend the night, hit up a nice restaurant, and spend a day visiting the shiny new museum. Not! What was I thinking? Tickets are sold out until at least March of 2017. Apparently the place is a hit, and getting a ticket is almost as tough as scoring a ticket to see Hamilton in New York. So I was thinking about the museum and all of its early success, when I read the following article about one of my least favorite people on this earth. “The National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. only has one reference to Clarence Thomas: that of Anita Hill testifying against him in his confirmation hearings. But a petition launched from the StandUnited website is looking to change that, calling for Thomas’ inclusion in the museum as part of African-American history. The petition is called “Director for Smithsonian Museum of African-American Culture and History, Lonnie Bunch III : Don’t Overlook African American Leaders like Justice Clarence Thomas” and was launched on October 6. Already, it has garnered hundreds of signatures. “Justice Thomas is the longest-serving African American Supreme Court Justice in our nation’s history,” Angela Morabito, who is the senior campaign manager of the website, told CNSNews.com. “StandUnited users are commenting on the petition about how they want to see Smithsonian embrace history, instead of selectively editing it.” “Justice Thomas has a uniquely American story, in all its complexity— he grew up in the segregated South, and is now the second most powerful African American man in government,” Morabito continued. “Petition signers think he deserves credit for his extraordinary contributions to American government and constitutional scholarship.”[Source]
The Field Negro
Commentary You have got to be kidding me! As Whitney used to say to Bobby: “Hell.To.The.No.!” First of all, this Negro was traded from the Negro race years ago. We disowned this Negro, and everything that his cooning behind stands for. White folks can embrace him if they want to, and that’s fine, but put him in
your own museum. I suspect that he would prefer to be there with you in the first place. And yet he has his supporters. This is what his fellow traveler, Armstrong Williams, wrote. “No matter your view of Thomas’s conservative politics, it is simply undeniable that his record of jurisprudence on the Supreme Court over the past 25 years makes him one of the most important Black figures of the post-civil rights era. While Thomas has not present-
ed himself as a “race” leader per se—he’s much like Obama in that regard—the very fact that he wields the quiet power of the court and helps to settle so many of the nation’s most contentious and complex legal controversies cements his place in African American history. Thomas must be given his due. Like him or not—and personally I admire him very much—he has been a groundbreaking advocate of the textualist approach to constitutional interpretation, perhaps even exceeding the record of the late justice Antonin Scalia. He has meticulously sought to remove what he regards as barnacles that have attached themselves to American law over the years. One of the most notable examples was his 2005 dissent in Kelo v. City of New London, a case in which the majority stretched to extremes the plain meaning of the Constitution to affirm the power of a local government, in cahoots with private developers, to seize and demolish the homes of citizens — indeed an entire thriving neighborhood—to make way for a corporate office complex.. It is something of an irony, then, that Thomas was left out of the African American Museum because of what can only be his principled dissent from the political orthodoxy of today’s African American leadership. By erasing Thomas in this way, however, the curators of the museum have done a grave disservice to the legacy of the African American experience in this country. And by denying Thomas a rightful place among the pantheon of African American achievers and strivers, they also deny themselves the very legitimacy they are seeking by erecting a monument in the heart of the nation’s capital.”[Source] No we are not. Clarence Thomas stopped viewing himself as an African American as soon as it stopped being convenient for him to play the race card. ( Remember his “High tech lynching” comment?) So why should he be honored in a museum next to real heroes who paved the way for us to be where we are today as a people? I say leave him out. I just hope that I get to make my visit before the folks at the museum change their minds.
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OCTOBER 26-N0VEMBER 1, 2016 NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
GRATEFUL—In this photo taken Sept. 21, a grateful Fidencio Sanchez pushes his paletas cart one last time before a group of of media after accepting a check for $384,290 during a news conference outside the ice cream shop, Paleteria y Neveria Poncho, where he rented his paletas cart in Chicago’s Little Village. (Antonio Perez/ Chicago Tribune via AP)
STILL WORKING—In this photo taken Oct. 18, Gwen Strowbridge, 71, poses for a photograph among photos of her grandchildren wearing her work uniform at her home in Deerfield Beach, Fla. Strowbridge works six days a week caring for a 100-year-old woman. She has worked all her life and plans to work until she can’t physically work anymore. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
For some low-income workers, retirement is only a dream by Maria Ines Zamudio Associated Press Writer
CHICAGO (AP)—It was a striking image. A photo of an 89-year-old man hunched over, struggling to push his cart with frozen treats. Fidencio San-
chez works long hours every day selling the treats because he couldn’t afford to retire. The photo and his story went viral and thousands of people donated more than $384,000 for his retirement. His story is a window
into a dark reality: Many low-wage workers say they can’t afford to retire. With no money saved for retirement, home care worker Gwen Strowbridge, 71, of Deerfield, Florida, plans to stay on the job until she can’t physically
work anymore. “I can’t see it in the future. I’ll stop working if my health won’t allow me to keep working,” said Strowbridge. Now 71, she works six days per week caring for a 100-year-old woman in Florida.
Studies have found that about one-third of low wage workers like Strawbridge say they’ll never be able to afford retirement. The problem is particularly acute among minority women. A 2016 study by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that one-quarter of workers 50 and older say they won’t retire. Among low wage workers, earning less than $50,000 a year, it was 33 percent. Strowbridge’s first job, in the 1960s, paid 98 cents an hour, setting her out on a path of low-wage jobs that stretched across five decades. She raised three sons with her husband, Roy, a dock attendant who unloaded cargo from boats. The couple was forced to use the little money they had saved for retirement on family medical issues. Strowbridge stopped working briefly after she turned 63 to care for her husband, who had quadruple bypass heart surgery. Their Social Security benefits weren’t enough to cover medical expenses, rent, utilities and food. When he died, she went back to work. Jacquelyn B. James, co-director of Boston College’s Center on Aging and Work, said it is common for low-wage workers to stay on the job, with no plans for retirement. “It is really easy for them to say ‘I’m going to work forever’ but things happen,” said James. Among those things: health issues. A 2016 report by the nonpartisan research nonprofit National Institute on Retirement Security shows that many Black, Latina and Asian women have to work past retirement age to be able to afford basic expenses. Women were 80 percent more likely than men to be impoverished. The research showed that for men between 70 and 74, about 19 percent of their income comes from wages. For women, it’s about 15 percent. “You couldn’t put nothing in the bank because I was
always underpaid,” Strowbridge said. “I just didn’t make enough to save.” Januario Salgado’s financial situation mirrors Strowbridge’s. He never saved for retirement. He is 64 years old and doesn’t plan to retire. He works 10 hours, six days per week in a grocery store in a suburb outside Chicago. “I couldn’t save,” Salgado said in Spanish. “I worked a lot to help my family. I used to send money to my parents in Mexico.” While caring for elderly parents is a norm in Mexican culture, many of the children don’t think it’s their responsibility, said Salgado, who came to the United States 40 years ago. His sons are among them. Salgado plans to start collecting Social Security benefits when he turns 65 but he will continue to work as long as he is physically able. He doesn’t want to become a burden to his children. For Esther Bolanos, 64, the situation is even more difficult. A domestic worker, she has been able to save some money for retirement but said it is not enough. She won’t be able to receive Social Security benefits because she doesn’t have legal status. “It’s sad to think about my situation. I was forced to close my business and leave the economic stability I had in my country to come here,” Bolanos said in Spanish. “I left everything behind because of the violence.” Bolanos owned a successful cheese factory in Mexico City, but success made her a target, she said. Her husband was killed and she was robbed at gunpoint twice. After the last robbery, she decided to migrate north. “I told my daughter, I’m going to take you to a safe place” even if I have to work cleaning houses, she said. If Bolanos had stayed in Mexico City, she would be retired. But now that she’s in the U.S., she doesn’t think she ever will. “I don’t think about retirement,” she said. “I think about what would happen to me if I get sick.”
1955 University of Iowa student finally gets honor, apology IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP)—It took more than six decades, but the first Black student to be named Miss State University of Iowa in 1955 has received official recognition—and an apology—from the university. The Iowa City PressCitizen reports (http:// icp-c.com/2dxWF64) that 78-year-old Dora Martin Berry was 17 when her fellow students elected her in the annual contest. The university at that
time was called the State University of Iowa. But university officials at the time denied Berry representation as Miss SUI at official school events, including that year’s Rose Bowl parade. Other events at which Miss SUI would have traditionally appeared were canceled. At an event Friday, university President Bruce Harreld apologized to Berry “for 60 years plus of official neglect of your status.’’
LIFESTYLES New Pittsburgh Courier
Jung Phil takes hip hop different direction B5
OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
Baptist Temple celebrates 95th year B2
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Debbie Norrell
Lifestyles Report
What works for some On Oct. 17, I attended the Tiny Wardrobe project at Uptown Sweats in East Liberty. If you are not familiar with Uptown Sweats, it is the boutique owned by Kiya Tomlin, and if you don’t know her, she is the wife of Mike Tomlin, the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers. When I found out about this event I thought it sounded interesting. A lady from Salt Lake City, Utah, was coming to town to talk about her Tiny Wardrobe Project. The fee was $20 and that included a gift from Kiya Tomlin. I have to admit that the idea of a gift from Kiya Tomlin was the big attraction for me. I read about the project and was not sure I could buy in to a smaller wardrobe. I found out that Courtney Carver was traveling nationally with her Tiny Wardrobe Tour and plans to visit 33 cities. The 33 cities all fit in to the 33 items. She was to share the how and why of starting Project 333 (the minimalist fashion challenge that invites you to dress with 33 items or less for three months) to bring more simplicity, love and joy into your life. Since starting Project 333, Carver has been featured on a number of national publications and TV shows, including BBC; CNN; O, The Oprah Magazine; More magazine; and Real Simple magazine. Carver told us that her “enough is enough” moment was when her closet grew out of control. She also said no one runs out of clothes and people shop for every event and emotion, but still do not feel better. She began the project in 2010, after blogging about it, 100 people got involved. Since that time, thousands of people have tried it across 80 countries. The key rule of the project is to wear 33 items over 3 months and the items are to include clothing accessories, jewelry, outerwear and shoes. She even brought her wardrobe with her and gave some examples. I asked her to show me what she would wear for an after five event or her cocktail attire. She showed two black basic dresses. Personally, I would get so bored with a wardrobe that small. I can see how this might fit into the new tiny houses; Carver and her husband also moved from their 2000 square foot home into a smaller space. A tiny wardrobe is just not for me. I admit I need to trim down my wardrobe, but not to 33 pieces. I have multiple wardrobes: a day job wardrobe, part-time job wardrobe and an audition wardrobe. I talked to a few ladies who attended the event and they came for the same reason I did, an opportunity to shop in Uptown Sweats; and who doesn’t like a gift bag? I’m sure you are wondering what was in the gift bag. It was a charcoal grey infinity collar, perfect for fall and works with so many things in my wardrobe. I can’t wait to wear it and add it to the hundreds of things already in my closet. (Email the columnist at debbienorrell@aol.com)
HONOREES—Valerie McDonald Roberts, Dr. William Simmons, Commander LaVonne Bickerstaff and Monretta Aarons RN, BSN
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT—Allen Places’ Carol Popp, executive director, and Jerry Ann Allen.
by Debbie Norrell Lifestyles Editor
There is nothing like the “senior prom.” For most of us, it is like a rite of passage that you attend when you are a student in high school. On Sept. 25, at the Pittsburgh Marriott City Center, the word prom took on a whole new meaning. Allen Place Community Services, Inc. invited Northside Senior residents to their Partnerships Reaching the Organizational Mission (PROM) event with Bob Allen, of KDKA-TV, and Winifred Torbert, a retired UPMC director, as the emcees. The PROM event raises funds to support of the ongoing and much needed health and wellness programs of the center. Instead of a prom king and queen, eight individuals were selected for their outstanding attire. DJ Sly Jock, and Flo Wilson and The Old School Band provided the sound track while Joy Maxberry Woodruff MISTRESS AND MASTER OF CEREMONIES—Winifred Torbert and served as the PROM event chair. On this Bob Allen special evening, Allen Place also took the opportunity to applaud five honorees who have had a direct impact on community health as caregivers, physicians, educators and community leaders. For over seven years, Allen Place Community Center has provided outstanding health and wellness services to individuals of all ages in the Pittsburgh area.
MR. HOLLYWOOD—Douglas Lee
MS. GLAMOROUS—Carol Neyland
MR. DAPPER—Rufus Ward with Karen Mobley MS. INNOVATIVE—Natalie Green
MR. SNAZZY—Ronald Green (Photos by Debbie Norrell)
MS. DAZZLING—Marjorie Singleton
MAKING THE PROM HAPPEN—Joy Maxberry Woodruff, event chair, and Jerry Ann Allen, Allen Place co-founder and president of the board of directors. MS. FASHION FORWARD—Phyllis Jackson
MR. CHARISMA—Lou Ransom
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RELIGION
OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016 NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Praise & Worship
Church Circuit Teaching Academy
ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CATHOLIC CHURCH
Month of Oct.—Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, 9 Port Perry Rd, North Versailles, will present its Second Annual Teaching Academy “Inspirational Ministry in a violent culture” for the month of October on Tuesdays from 6–8 p.m. The instructor is Rev. Dr. Richard Wingfield of Unity Baptist Church in Braddock. For more information call 412-823-4049. Rev. Barbara A. Gunn is the pastor.
Crawford & Centre Ave. Pgh., PA 15219 412-281-3141 Mass Sunday 9:00 A.M. & 12:00 P.M. Sunday (Gospel Choir Mass) 12:00 P.M. www.stbtmchurch.org
METROPOLITAN BAPTIST CHURCH
Free Concert
22 Sampsonia Street, Northside Pittsburgh, PA 15212 412-231-2554 FAX 412-231-6395 Rev. Lacy F. Richardson, Ph.D., Pastor Church School.................................9:30 A.M. Worship Service.................8:00 & 10:45 A.M. Bible Study/ Prayer Wednesday...................6:30/7:30 P.M. www.metropolitanbaptistchurch.com metropolitanbaptist2224@gmail.com
East Liberty Presbyterian Church Rev. Dr. Randy Bush, Senior Pastor 412-441-3800 116 S. Highland Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206
www.cathedralofhope.com
Journey Worship........8:45 a.m. Sanctuary Worship........11 a.m.
BAPTIST TEMPLE CONGREGATION PRAYING DURING WORSHIP SERVICE (Photos by J. L. Martello)
Baptist Temple celebrate 95th year with rededication
To have your church included in the Praise & Worship section contact Ashley Johnson at 412-481-8302 ext. 128 for ad rates.
Join our growing Praise and Worship Church Community
Women of the Bible
GUEST PASTOR REV. DOC TOUSSAINT JR.
email: ajohnson@newpittsburghcourier.com
PASTOR RODNEY A. LYDE
Live DVD Recording
OCT. 28—Northside Institutional COGIC, 302 West North Ave., will honor Rev. Curtis Lewis with a Live DVD Recording and birthday celebration concert at 6 p.m. For more information call 724419-6872. OCT. 29—Macedonia Baptist Church in Duquesne cordially invites the public to its Bowling for Jesus at North Versailles Bowling Alley, at 6 p.m. The cost is $10 and that includes 3 hours of bowling. Hot dogs, chips and drinks will be free. Reverend Archie D. Perrin Jr. is the senior pastor; Susan Jackson-Lower is the secretary.
Pastor’s anniversary celebration
THE CHURCH CHOIR
BENNIE TURNER Soloist
serving the community with sion under the leadership of a special program where Pastor Rodney A. Lyde. they rededicated themBTC has a long track selves to their historic mis- record of living out their mission. The church recommitted to ministering KRALL to Homewood by addressSister Loretta, CSJ ing the hurts, needs, and Sister Loretta Krall, CSJ, (Sister Bernarda), 81, died Monday, October 17, in her 64th year as a Sister of St. Joseph. The daughinterests of the whole 21st ter of James B. and Maryanna (May) Robinsky Krall, Sister Locentury individual, family retta entered the Congregation from Our Lady of Peace Parish, and community. Over the Conway, PA. For nearly six decades, Sister Loretta ministered in years, BTC has held events education, serving as a teacher at Annunciation in Pittsburgh, St. that brought the communiBernard in Indiana, PA, and Holy Rosary School in Pittsburgh. Af-
ty with police together for better mutual understanding, addressed the needs of at-risk youth, and confronted local and systemic problems. Pastor Lyde and church members have been at the forefront of community-wide fights like the effort to help UMPC workers and ensure police accountability.
Homewood’s Baptist Temple Church (BTC), located at 7241 Race St., celebrated, last month, its 95th year of
New Pittsburgh Courier 315 E. Carson St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Fax: 412-481-1360
FIRST LADY REV. JACQUELINE ELISA LYDE Reading of the Word
OCT. 28—Pastor Deborah Moncrief & Sisters in Sync (Missionary Temple Women’s Ministry) present Women of the Bible, Testimonies and Timeless Truths at 7:30 p.m. at Missionary Temple Ministries, 6378 Centre Ave., in East Liberty. There will be creative presentations of the history of the Women of the Bible and anointed ministry in song. They look forward to this time of fellowship and healing and hope to see you there. For additional information, please call 412-3623656.
Bowling party
For rate information, call 412481-8302, ext. 128. We are looking to feature our positive youth in the church communities. You can e-mail, fax or mail
their bios and photo to:
OCT. 27—First Baptist Penn Hills will host its “Fall Fest: The Real You,” featuring guests Rev. Marco Tinor and St. Paul Baptist Choir at 7 p.m. Oct. 29, at 6 p.m., the church will host the College and University Gospel Choir Concert. Gospel choirs from California University of Pa., Clarion University, George Washington University of Washington, D.C., Indiana University of Pa. and Slippery Rock University will perform. In addition, Chosen Mime Troupe, Steel City Jazz Factor and rapper Min. Ronnell Hunt will also take part. The concert will be held at Bethany Baptist Church and is free to the public. Oct. 30, at 10:45 a.m., the worship service with the theme, “One Call Away” with feature tag team preaching by Rev. Julian Hunt and Min. Teresa Hunt. All events, with the exception of the concert, will be held at First Baptist Penn Hills.
ter teaching four years at St. Richard in Pittsburgh, Sister Loretta became principal of the school (1968-1976) and was instrumental in helping to introduce a K-8 Free Learning Environment project with the University of Pittsburgh Black Studies and Guidance and Counseling departments. Parents praised Sister Loretta for “bringing a program of educational excellence to the community.” During the summers of 1968 and 1969, sister established and operated a Camp Achievement near Connellsville, PA, a residential camp for disadvantaged youth. From 1976-2012, Sister Loretta served as an educational consultant for the Diocese of Pittsburgh. While working directly with principals in this role, she never lost sight of the students, recognizing that each child has the capacity to know, love and serve God. What distinguished her as an exceptional educator was her ability to listen to and relate with children, teachers, parents and colleagues with genuine respect and professional competence. Fun-loving and street smart, Sister Loretta carried responsibility with reverence and sincerity. Exceedingly humble, she will be remembered for her generous outreach to those who were poor or disenfranchised. Friends recall that she lived by the words she often quoted: “This is what Yahweh asks of you, only this: to act justly, to love tenderly and to walk humbly before God.” Sister is survived by two brothers, Ron Krall of North Carolina, Len Krall of Monaca, PA, one sister, Yvonne Burkett of Freedom, PA, nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, the Associates, and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Baden. Friends will be received from 1 to 8 p.m. on Friday, October 21, and from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 22, at the Motherhouse of the Sisters of St. Joseph in Baden. Prayer vigil is at 6 p.m. on Friday, October 21. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 4 p.m. on Saturday, October 22, in the Motherhouse Chapel. Burial will follow in the Sisters’ Cemetery on the Motherhouse grounds. Donations in the name of Sister Loretta may be sent to the Sisters of St. Joseph Memorial Fund, St. Joseph Convent, Development Office, 1020 State Street, Baden, PA 15005.
OCT. 29-30–The members and friends of Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church will proudly celebrate the third pastoral anniversary of Rev. Dr. Vincent K. Campbell, Senior Pastor, with a anniversary weekend-long celebration. Appreciation will be shown to the pastor, First Lady Jamie Campbell and First Family of Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church.
Music In A Great Space
NOV. 4–Duquesne University Choirs will perform Nov. 4 and Nov. 6 at Shadyside Presbyterian Church. Friday is entitled “Radiant is the World Soul” and Sunday is “A Service of Rememberence for All Saints.” The Friday concert starts at 7:30 p.m. and the Sunday concert starts at 3 p.m.
Youth Ministry Fall Revival
Nov. 23—Bethlehem Baptist Church, 716 Walnut St, McKeesport, will host the Youth Ministry Fall Revival. For more information call 412-664-7272. Minister Laphon Flood-Francis Morningstar Baptist Church, Clairton Guest Preacher. Rev. Earlene Coleman, Sr Pastor. Rev. Jamie Grayson, assistant pastor; Rev. Phil Williams, youth pastor.
LIFTING THEIR HANDS TO GOD
(All announcements, events and press releases must be sent 2 weeks in advance with contact phone number and email address to newsroom@newpittsburghcourier.com.)
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
(Family Features)—Planning ahead for family meals around the holidays can be a headache-inducing practice, but putting to work recipes that everyone can enjoy makes it a much more enjoyable process. By planning out an evening’s worth of courses, you can take care of hungry pre-dinner guests, knock a main dish out of the park and cap off everyone’s night with a spectacular dessert. These recipes for Culinary Education Center House Fondue, Pan Chicken with Grapefruit Shallots and Mint Sauce, and Chocolate Buttermilk Layer Cake will help keep everybody satisfied throughout the party, from start to finish. Find more holiday recipes at culinary.net.
Pan Chicken with Grapefruit Shallots and Mint Sauce
Servings: 4 1/4 teaspoon salt, plus additional, to taste 1/4 teaspoon coarse black pepper, plus additional, to taste 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, halved 3 teaspoons olive oil, divided 1/4 cup shallots 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper 1 cup chicken broth 1/2 cup fresh Texas Rio Star Grapefruit juice 1 tablespoon minced mint, divided 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour 4 mint leaves Salt and pepper chicken. In large skillet, heat half the oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear until both sides are browned well, about 3 minutes on each side. Transfer chicken to plate and tent with foil. Reduce heat to medium and add remaining oil to pan. Add shallots and crushed red pepper. Cook about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. In small bowl, whisk together broth, grapefruit juice, half the minced mint and flour. Add to skillet. Cook, whisking until slightly thickened, about 3 minutes. Return chicken to skillet with juices; reduce heat to low. Season with additional salt and pepper, to taste. Simmer until chicken is cooked through, about 4 minutes. Serve chicken with sauce spooned over. Use remaining minced mint and mint leaves to garnish.
Culinary Education Center House Fondue
Cook time: 45 minutes Servings: 6 3/4 pound Grand Cru Original, shredded 3/4 pound Grand Cru Reserve, shredded 1/2 pound Roth Fontina, shredded 16 ounces Pinot Grigio or other light- to medium-bodied white wine 1 loaf crusty artisan bread Fresh apples, grapes and pears Black and white pepper (optional) Nutmeg (optional) In ceramic fondue pot, combine cheeses and wine; stir to combine. Allow mixture to soak 15-30 minutes. Heat mixture over low heat, approximately 7-10 minutes, stirring constantly with wooden spoon. Do not allow mixture to boil. When cheese has melted completely, remove from heat and transfer to tabletop burner. Serve fondue with chunks of bread and fruit. If desired, provide pepper and/or nutmeg guests can sprinkle onto a plate and use for dipping bread and cheese. Pair with chilled dry Riesling and a shot of authentic Swiss kirschwasser.
Chocolate Buttermilk Layer Cake Servings: 12 3/4 cup Nestlé Toll House Baking Cocoa, plus extra for coating pans 2-1/4 cups cake flour 2 teaspoons baking soda 1 teaspoon fine salt 1-1/4 cups buttermilk, at room temperature 1/2 cup brewed coffee or water 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature 2 cups superfine sugar 4 large eggs, at room temperature 2-3 containers (16 ounces each) prepared chocolate frosting, or about 3 3/4-5 1/2 cups homemade 1-2 Nestlé Crunch Candy Bars, finely chopped 24-36 pieces Nestlé Butterfinger Bites Candy, finely chopped Heat oven to 350 F. Grease bottoms of three 8- or 9-inchround cake pans; line with parchment or wax paper circle. Grease parchment then coat lightly with small amount of cocoa, tapping out excess. In large bowl, sift together flour, 3/4 cup cocoa, baking soda and salt. In small bowl, combine buttermilk, coffee and vanilla extract. In large mixing bowl, beat butter until smooth. Beat in sugar until smooth and creamy. Beat in eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down sides of bowl with rubber spatula; beat again. Alternately add flour mixture in three additions with buttermilk mixture in two additions, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Scrape down sides of bowl; beat again. Pour batter evenly into prepared pans. Bake 20-25 minutes, or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans on wire racks for 10 minutes. Invert each layer onto wire rack; remove parchment paper then invert right-side-up. Cool completely. To assemble, level cakes (trim tops off), if desired, using serrated knife. Place dollop of frosting in center of cake pedestal or serving platter. Tear four strips of parchment paper and place in square around outer 3 inches of pedestal. Place one cake layer over dollop of frosting. Spread about 1 cup frosting over top; sprinkle top evenly with about 1/4 cup chopped candy bar. Top with another cake layer; spread with about 1 cup frosting. Sprinkle with remaining chopped candy bar. Top with third cake layer. Cover top and sides with thin layer of frosting. Refrigerate 15 minutes then cover with remaining frosting. With hands, press chopped candy pieces around sides of cake. After frosting has set, gently remove strips of parchment paper. Cut cake into slices to serve.
CUISINE
OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016
Holiday Menu Magic
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ENTERTAINER New Pittsburgh Courier
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OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
Cover To Cover
‘Truevine’
by Terri Schlichenmeyer For New Pittsburgh Courier
Life these days is a threering circus. The clowns at your job dominate ring one. Ring two features the juggler (you) and your checkbook, schedule, chore list and family obligations. And in ring three, there’s a wild combination of the other two. Run away and join the circus? Yeah, that’s already happened, but in the new book “Truevine: Two Brothers, a Kidnapping, and a Mother’sQuest: A True Story of the Jim Crow South” by Beth Macy, it was far from voluntary. Harriet Muse was nearly beside herself with worry. According to a legend handed down from mother to child for generations, Harriet’s sons were snatched away from their field chores on a warm day in 1899—kidnapped in broad daylight by a white man with candy because Willie and George, ages 6 and 9, were not like other African American children of their day. The two Muse boys were albinos with white hair, pale skin and pink eyes.
FREDDIE JACKSON WITH HIS BAND (Photos by J. L. Martello)
Fans say Freddie still has it by Paige K. Mitchell For New Pittsburgh Courier
Perfect, in other words, for the sideshow. But was the legend true? For Macy, a modern-day journalist, it was an intriguing tale. She wrote a story on it for her newspaper and then started to dig some more, but she was thwarted by a greatniece intent on protecting an elderly uncle. Even so, lots of people remembered the Muse boys, but nobody knew what had happened to them nor did dates or details explain how the Muses end up as sideshow exhibits. Circus memorabilia collectors may recognize Willie and George from old postcards. The boys had supposedly been “discovered” by “freak hunters” in a country du jour and, through the years, were mostly captive to a series of handlers, circuses and managers who paid them nothing. Still, the boys seemed to have embraced circus life, although, from town to town, their names often changed, as did their stories and racial stereotypes they were forced to enact. In truth, they were just two uneducated boys with a genetic anomaly who’d been told all their lives that their mother was dead. The boys were men before they knew that she wasn’t… And therein lies the most difficult unknown in this book: what was the role of “dear old mother” in what happened to the boys? Author Macy presents evidence that’s sometimes contradictory, and which leads to more questions. In “Truevine,” Macy patiently puts things into perspective through an overall sense of the times; a micro-look at one area of Virginia, a century ago; and peeks into circus life. More importantly, we feel the crushing despair of Jim Crow laws and the despair Harriet Muse must’ve felt; when her Mother-Bear power emerges, we’re surprised, but not too much. (“Truevine: Two Brothers, a Kidnapping, and a Mother’s Quest: A True Story of the Jim Crow South” by Beth Macy, c.2016, Little, Brown, $28/$34 Canada, 432 pages.)
FREDDIE JACKSON
DON TRENT Promoter
Well-known soul singer, Frederick Anthony “Freddie” Jackson performed his career hits on Oct. 8, at the Homewood Coliseum, to a packed house of his shouting fans. “Pittsburgh, thank you for a great night, ” Jackson shouted to the screaming fans. At 59 years old, the legendary, soulful Jackson showed that he still has it as he had the women screaming as he performed his unforgettable love ballads, such as “You Are My Lady,” “Rock Me Tonight,” “Have You Ever Loved Somebody,” “Jam Tonight” and “Do Me Again.” Concert attendee Oasis McClendon said, “‘You Are My Lady’ was released in 1985. I remember because that’s the year my now husband and I went on our first date, and that was the song we had our first dance to. Now, here we are years later, still dancing to it––Priceless.” “I started out singing television jingles and background for other popular artists,” Jackson said. “Now I’m a solo artist and I’m happy. At the time that I started singing backup, I originally just wanted to buy furniture. I remember I
had an apartment with no furniture in it. And I still had a full-time job, until the manager told me that I should let my full-time job go. “Every city is different, and when I perform at a city where there’s great energy, I have to give it back. My love for what I do helps me to give my best and act like I’m 30, but when I get back to the hotel it’s a whole different thing.” He added, “I find myself to be more experienced now. I have a new album coming out in March, and there’s a new song on the album called ‘Love & Soul.’ And we’re getting ready to give the industry something that it’s missing––some pure soul music. Not the fabricated stuff. I’m doing Freddie.” Jackson explained how he stays motivated to continue in the music business. “I’m from the hood. Walking streets, such as these, is not foreign for me. I want to be where the people are; that gives me the stamina I need to perform and do what I love to do,” he said. When it comes to the other musicians Jackson has on his personal playlist, he said, “I’m loving Anthony Hamilton, he is
my favorite. I enjoy Jill Scott, Anita Baker, Aretha Franklin, all-time singers from the heart and soul. Smokey Robinson (and) Jennifer Hudson; I think (she) is powerful. And I believe she has a career that can span forever as
long as she stays loyal to her fans,” he said. Mike Saunders said, “I got to give it to him. Freddie still sounds the same as he did when he was 30. Enjoyable show.” (J.L. Martello contributed to this story.)
HAVING A GOOD TIME—Many started dancing when Freddie Jackson performed their favorite songs.
A PACKED COLISEUM—The crowd at the Homewood Coliseum during the Freddie Jackson concert.
ARTS & CULTURE
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016
Nov. Freddy Cole
Oct. 29—Join The Manchester Craftsman’s Guild as we celebrate legendary jazz musician Freddy Cole’s 85th birthday. Freddy will be joined on stage with vocalist Nnenna Freelon and saxophonist Joel Frahm. We had originally planned to host two shows, but as we finalized the plans to celebrate with Freddy and his special guests, we decided to host one extended show with two sets and an intermission. The first and only show of the evening will begin at 6 pm. Tickets are still available! Please call the box office at 412322-0800 or visit mcgjazz.org!
Pitt Jazz Seminar
OCT. 31—NOV. 5 Kickoff Performance at the William Pitt Union the Pitt Jazz Ensemble, featuring assistant director Yoko Suzuki.
Open Jazz Sessions
Nov. 1—Evening Jazz Presentation at Frick Fine Arts Auditorium. Nov. 2—Film screening “Round Midnight” Frick Fine Arts Auditorium. Nov. 3—The History of Jazz, Lecture and Q & A session by Maxine Gordon at Frick Fine Arts Auditorium. Nov. 4—The Business of Jazz, Lecture and Q & A by Linda Lorence. Daytime seminars Nov. 4—Artist Seminar with Cassandra Wilson. Listen like a musician, sing like a songbird. Fred Wesley, the Role of Jazz in Funk. Perry Hughes, My Life In Music. Jamison Ross, What Now? NOV. 5—Ambrose Akinmusiree; A Letter to My Yoounger Self. S. Epatha Merkerson; A Conversation with Merkerson.
For Jobs and Freedom Film
NOV. 9—The Senator John Heinz History Center and the Homewood Library presents the “From Slavery to Freedom” film series, featuring, “A. Philip Randolph: For Jobs and Freedom” a documentary film that traces Randolph’s early years as an activists and founder of the magazine, The Messenger, Wednesday, from 5:30 pm to 8 pm. Along with Chandler Owen, Randolph founded the National Association for the Promotion of Labor Unionism Among Negroes. He is best known as the founder of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters. A veteran of Civil Rights Randolph’s active life spans form the WWI era to the March on Washington. Members of the A. Philip Randolph Institute will join and moderate the post film dialogue.
Black Poets Speak Out
Nov. 9—Kelly Strayhorn Theater co-presented with The Center for African American Poetry and Poetics at the University of Pittsburgh Starting as a Tumblr hashtag video campaign, Black Poets Speak Out unities poets from across the country who refuse to accept the continuous murders of Black people. Video responses to these atrocious events us the force of art to transform policy, redefining what is normal. Hosted by organizing members of Black Poets Speak Out Jericho Brown, Mahogany L. Browne and Amanda Johnson will lead participants in an interactive poetry workshop at the Alloy Studios followed by readings and #BlackPoetsSpeakOut videos.
“Live Music Thursdays”
Wallace’s TapRoom in Hotel Indigo® East Liberty is continuing its popular “Live Music Thursdays” with a very diverse schedule of musical offerings by first class Pittsburgh musicians, during November & December, according to Hotel General Manager. Wallace’s TapRoom is located in Hotel Indigo® East Liberty, 123 North Highland Ave., 412665-0555. Valet ($6) and street parking is available. “Live Music Thursdays” are from 6 to 8 p.m. and there is NO cover charge. Nov. 3—Calvin Stemley’s Stemtec—Smooth jazz. The Stemtec Band was started by Calvin Stemley in 2013. The vision of the band was to cover the Smooth and Jazzy Sounds of Melodic material both covers and originals.
Najee, Downing
Nov. 30—Najee will be at the Byham Theater at 8 p.m. Join the Hill House Association for its annual year end fundraiser as the organization presents the Soulful Sounds of Christmas, featuring legendary musicians Will Downing and Najee. This truly remarkably concert promises to put you in a festive spirit as we welcome the winter holidays and season of giving. The Hill House relies heavily on the generous support of the Pittsburgh community and attending Soulful Sounds of Christmas is a fun and meaningful way to give back. For more information call 412-456-6666.
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Jung Phil takes hip hop different direction by Ashley G. Woodson For New Pittsburgh Courier
A question and answer with rapper Jung Phil. Where are you from and where did you grow up? “I’m originally from South Jersey and was raised in Philadelphia. I do a lot of moving around. I lived in seven states growing up across the country. I was raised by a single mother with three kids and it was a hard struggle for her and we couldn’t really get on our feet. When I turned 17 I was on my own and started traveling and doing music.” Is your music mainstream, militant, pop or gangsta? “It’s mainstream and more of an Urban Pop. We do a lot of radio, club and mainstream records. We’re not really into doing underground music. Urban Pop is a mixture of hip hop and pop put together. Artist like Big Sean, J. Cole are considered to be Urban Pop and that’s the type of music I’m putting out there. In addition to producing music, I also play the piano.” Why did you to become a rapper and what is it like to be a male artist today? “Growing up my mom played music all day. We listened to a lot of old school R&B, Kenny G., Jazz and everything else. I became obsessed with music. When I first heard Master P., I was living in Orlando, Fla., and I thought he was the hardest rapper back then.
JUNG PHIL (Photo by Ashley G. Woodson) I also grew up listening to Big L. People don’t really know about him. He is an underground artist that was discovered by Jay Z. He was supposed to be the protégé of Tupac Shakur. Big L. made me fall in love with hip hop because the way he flowed through the music.” Do you have any advice for others trying to get into the music industry? “Honestly you have to take your craft seriously. I’ve been doing this for 15 years and for my first 6 years I couldn’t get anywhere with it. It takes money and it takes knowing people. The way the music industry
used to be is that you had to have a hot record, great image and a budget. These days you have to have your own budget and your song could be crap and they’ll still sign you. My advice to others is to take it seriously because there are a million people out here doing this trying to be the next famous person. You have to be different. I put out a song called “100 Racks” and the record is brilliant, but I haven’t been able to record another one because I have to come up with another one better. In other words, you can’t put out a great hit and put out garbage later.” Since you’re 30, why did
you decide to get into the game now? “It’s crazy because when people see me, and hear my music, they say there is no way he’s 30 years old because I look 20 years old. When I was 20 I had my first kid and my second at 22 so I had to take a break from the music. I was also in jail and when I returned I went to Social Media and looked for an investor that was willing to invest into my career. I would approach investors and say, ‘If you’re interested please email me and I will send you material and information.’ I hired an investor and they invested a lot of money and we did a contract. This was the best way to do it for me. My former manager, Joanna Halton, who ran Pittsburgh hip hop website, seen my talent, potential and background. She was impressed that I traveled and done a lot of things with major artist. She felt that if she invested in my career, that she would profit from it. Over time we started doing things in the ‘Burgh and traveling. After that, she became my manager officially. At this time, she is no longer my manager, but we accomplished a lot together. We linked up with WAMO and lot of big producers from I.D. Labs worked with Wiz Khalifa.” Is this a hobby or are you in this for the long haul? I quit my full time job and got off the street and I did
not want to go back to jail because of my kids. I got a 9 to 5 at first, but then I said that I’m getting money from royalties, album sales and streaming is big and you can make a lot of money so I took that on full time. I would not be 30 years old and still doing my craft if this were just a hobby.” What do you think about the current state of hip hop? “Hip-hop is wacked today because it is not the same. People do not know the elements of hip hop. We have a lot of artists who make a mockery of hip hop. They are doing it for the money and not for the love of the music. The meaning of hip hop is purity and natural and I feel like a lot of new artists are having hip hop giving to them. They can say whatever they want as long as it is over a hot beat. It is sad that new generation loves this garbage and that is changing hip hop. It is all about the money.” Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years? “Right now, I am producing my own album but in the next 5 years, I will be working on marketing, touring and merchandising. I plan to do that by getting investors. I have a few people that are interested from Los Angeles. If you sign to a label, they will eat your money up so do things for yourself in the beginning and then you will have something to show the label later.”
Movie Review: Let Michel’le tell her story
by Merecedes J. Howze For New Pittsburgh Courier
Dr. Dre got a chance to tell his rags-to-riches story in the 2015 blockbuster “Straight Outta Compton”. But, according to singer and ex-lover Michel’le, he conveniently left her out. She said the film also failed to mention his aggressive, drunk behavior as an abuser and habitual cheater. It is now Michel’le’s turn to set the record straight in Lifetime’s biopic, “Surviving Compton,” which premiered this past Saturday. Played by Rhyon Nicole Brown, Michel’le rose to fame in the late 1980s as the first lady of Eazy-E’s Ruthless Records. In the film, Michel’le narrated two painful relationships with N.W.A. member Dr. Dre and Death Row Records co-founder Suge Knight. After watching the film, some are questioning the validity of her accounts. No one seemed to question Suge Knight’s abuse. But, everyone wants to know how true are her stories about Dr. Dre, the man who brought us Eminem and good quality headphones. We have painted such a pretty picture of Dr. Dre. Maybe accepting Michel’le’s side is so conflicting because her own picture is far from pleasing. I was not surprised when my Facebook timeline was filled with such hatred towards the movie and Michel’le’s version, it is as if
the norm is to further victimize the victim. Let Michel’le live. She had the courage to tell her side of the story. I am sure she spilled her own tea with the hopes to give another domestic violence sufferer a glimmer of faith. Nate Parker was crucified for a rape that our judicial system say he did not commit. Nobody touched a hair on Dr. Dre’s head when his major biopic was released, even after many women, including Michel’le, claimed he was abusive. And yeah, I’m still on this Nate Parker “Birth of a Nation” kick because he was slammed without hesitation, while society still widely accepts other alleged rapists and abusers like Michael Jackson, R. Kelly, Woody Allen, and your beloved Ben Roethlisberger. Where do you draw the line on the credibility of rape or domestic abuse? Michel’le told her story. Let her live. Whether there were exaggerations or embellishments, it’s not up to us to play detective or vilify her for her truths. Thankfully, these Lifetime movies are getting better. The women’s network and VH1 caught a real bad rap for the biopics. R&B legends like Aaliyah, Whitney Houston, and Toni Braxton all had to settle for the cheap version of their stories. “Surviving Compton” was promising though. There’s hope after all for the made for TV biopics.
CAST OF ‘SURVIVING COMPTON’
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OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Homewood native serves aboard warship named after United States of America by Ricky Burke For New Pittsburgh Courier
(SAN DIEGO)—A 2015 Taylor Allderdice High School graduate and Homewood native is playing a key role in supporting the newest and largest amphibious warship in the Navy. Seaman Christian Wingate, a boatswain's mate serving aboard USS America (LHA 6), is based in San Diego, Calif. America is the fourth warship to be named for the United States. As a boatswain's mate, Wingate is responsible for preservation of the ship, involved with safety of the crew, providing security, and maintaining the wellness of the ship. “My job is very unique because I get to be a part of a team that assists in safely getting the ship underway, which includes driving small boats that escort the ship," said Wingate. America is equipped with a fuel-efficient hybrid electric propulsion system, which is an energy initiative designed to increase range, endurance and longer deployments enhancing America's combat capability. It’s 844 feet long and 106 feet wide and weighs nearly 45,000 tons, with two gas turbine engines that push the ship through water at more than 22 knots. Its mission is to support a wide spectrum of military operations and missions, including putting Marines ashore for combat operations, launching air strikes, keeping sea lanes free and open for the movement of global commerce, and delivering humanitarian aid
RIDE FOR PEACE HONOREES—The honorees recognized by Iron Cross Ministries for the work they do in the community are, from left: Donald Rozman, Jason Bell, Rev. Paul Roberts and Ada Gay Griffin. Iron Cross Ministries held its annual Motorcycle Ride For Peace to stop the violence in the streets on Oct. 22. (Photos by J.L. Martello)
Iron Cross Ministries’ Ride for Peace CHRISTIAN WINGATE following a disaster like the typhoon that devastated the Philippines in 2013. As a member of the U.S. Navy’s finest warships, Wingate said he and other Sailors are proud to be part of most capable amphibious force in the world “This is America personified; the diversity, hard working crew and family atmosphere is what this country is all about,” said Wingate. Sailors’ jobs are highly varied on America, according to Navy officials. Their job includes keeping all parts of the ship running smoothly—this includes ev-
erything from maintaining aircrafts and engines, processing paperwork, to handling weapons, and flying the aircraft. Serving in the Navy, Wingate is learning about being a more responsible leader, Sailor and person through handling numerous responsibilities. "The challenges that I have to deal with has made me more responsible, it's strengthened my work ethic and its helped me mature a lot," said Wingate. (Ricky Burke works at the Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs)
Brown named LAGRANT COMM. exec. VP LOS ANGELES—LAGRANT COMMUNICATIONS, a multicultural integrated marketing communications agency, announces the promotion of Keisha N. Brown to executive vice president and chair of the new Health and Wellness Practice. As chair of the practice, Brown will drive creative solutions for all of the agency’s healthcare
can Cancer Society, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Novartis and the Office of National Control Drug Policy, to name a few. Relying on her keen understanding of health disparities and cultural nuances amongst African American and Hispanic communities, Brown has successfully executed award-winning campaigns with multi-million dollar budgets and led multidis-
RALLYING TOGETHER—Min. Lynne Brentley, whose rider name is “Sassi,” speaking to the crowd at the rally held after the ride.
ORGANIZER—Rev. Cornell Jones, leader of Iron Cross Ministries, welcoming everyone and thanking the riders for their participation.
paign.” As a 21-year veteran of the firm, Brown is an integrated marketing communications specialist that has successfully executed integrated advertising, marketing and public relations campaigns for clients such as L.A. Care Health Plan, The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and the Martin Luther King Jr. Communi-
KEISHA N. BROWN clients. With more than two decades of healthcare experience working with clients on a local, regional and national level, LAGRANT is excited to launch their Health and Wellness Practice with a skilled professional that works across all disciplines and cultures. “I look forward to leading the new Health and Wellness Practice at the agency and utilizing my experience and passion to make a difference in the lives of African Americans and Latinos,” said Brown. “I have worked on health care accounts for more than 20 years, and understand the challenges that impact behavioral change to make our communities healthier and people live longer.” Brown brings a wealth of experience, insight and maturity to the Health and Wellness Practice. She has worked with corporate, notfor-profit and government clients, including Ameri-
ciplinary teams. She now manages the advertising and marketing account for Covered California, educating African American consumers about their services and maximizing the number of Californians enrolled in health insurance coverage. In addition, under Brown’s leadership the team will focus on entities such as hospitals, healthcare plans, not-forprofit, government, biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies. “Brown is the biggest success story of the agency’s internship program,” said Kim L. Hunter, president and CEO of LAGRANT COMMUNICATIONS. “She is the epitome of what an IMC specialist is and does. (Brown) is one of the few communicators that has a good understanding of the three disciplines (advertising, marketing and public relations) and how they intersect with one another to create a truly holistic cam-
BIKERS RIDE—The bikers riding through East Liberty. ty Hospital. Throughout her career, Brown has been recognized for her work and expertise in multicultural communications. Most recently, the firm received the Healthcare Public Relations & Marketing Association Golden Advocate Award for the launch of the L.A. Care Covered campaign, a project headed by Brown. Johnson Publications, the publishers of Ebony and Jet magazine, also named Brown “One of the Most Outstanding Women in Marketing and Communications” and PRWeek Magazine featured her in a roundtable discussion regarding diverse viewpoints on multicultural communications. The Los Angeles native holds a bachelor's degree in journalism with an emphasis in public relations and a minor in business administration from Howard University in WashingA TIME FOR PRAYER—Bikers from various motorcycle clubs praying for peace. ton, D.C.
New Pittsburgh Courier
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Inside Conditions
BUSINESS
Find what you need from jobs to cars to housing C4, C5
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First ever Black woman-owned full service security firm launched with $500 – now a multi-million dollar enterprise OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
BlackNews.com—Mary Parker is the genius entrepreneur that founded All-N-One Security—a thriving, multi-million dollar security enterprise with a workforce of more than 200 employees. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, her company is the first ever Black woman-owned full-service security firm, and one of the nation’s largest and most experienced, fully-certified security firms. All-N-One Security provides corporations, small businesses, and other professional entities with global high-level security technology, security personnel, and onsite traffic control management. How did she do it? It all started in college, when Parker earned a Bachelor of Science degree in criminology and a Master’s degree in security management. After graduating college, she started out as a security officer but soon secured a role as Director of Security at Diesel Technologies Corporation.
However, after realizing that there was a “glass ceiling” for minority women in the security industry, she decided to create a plan to launch her very own security firm. In 2001, Parker moved to Atlanta, Georgia, and founded All-N-One Security in the kitchen of her home with less than $500. Under her leadership, her small homebased company blossomed into a multimillion dollar enterprise with offices in Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi. Her clients include aviation firms, concert promoters, municipalities, educational institutions, natural gas resources, and transportation companies from all over the country. Her advice to others Parker travels the country speaking to Criminal Justice students, and mentors many women, minorities and aspiring security professionals. Her advice is simple: “DeMARY PARKER
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Fashion experts hosting Saturday events by Diane I. Daniels For New Pittsburgh Courier
RON BUSBY
U.S. Black Chambers named Distinguished Advocate of the Year WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Black Chambers, the only national advocacy organization working solely to advance Black businesses and building economic power in the Black community, was named Distinguished Advocate of the Year. The award, given by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Minority Business Development Agency was announced as part of the 2016 National Minority Enterprise Development Week Award winners. This is the first year USBC has earned this award. Each year MBDA honors “Champions of Minority Business Development” through its National MED Week. The initiative recognizes the achievements of minority entrepreneurs, along with those individuals and organizations that have demonstrated leadership and commitment in advancing global minority business enterprise. “Each year the U.S. Black Chambers’ commitment to building the economic power of the Black community is strengthened. Whether talking to officials in the federal administration, or working with larger corporations, advocacy on behalf of small business and economic empowerment is a cornerstone of our work,” said Ron Busby Sr., the president and CEO of the U.S. Black Chambers. “USBC’s partnerships are key to our success, and to the success of the Black community. We’re proud to be honored by the Minority Business Development Agency, and look forward to our continued collaborative work.”
In recent weeks, a spate of news coverage has referred to America’s “inner cities”. Some may even interpret it as a new code word for minorities, usually referring to Blacks and Latinos. Yet today, according to Richard Rothstein, a research associate with the Economic Policy Institute, the inner city experience does not encompass all of Black America. More Blacks now live in the suburbs than in urban ghettos, and approximately onethird of Black Americans have incomes higher than that of the respective median earnings. So why is access to homeownership still so out of reach for consumers of color? Why do so many Blacks and Latinos continue to suffer disproportionate denials for mortgage loans? A recent analysis of the 2015 Home Mortgage Disclosure Act data by the Center for Responsible Lending sheds further light on the fact that even years after a national recovery from the housing collapse, the American Dream remains elusive for much of Black America. “The HMDA data has shown a persistent difference in denial rates by race and ethnicity and this year is no exception,” wrote CRL. “20.8 percent of African-American applicants were denied a loan in 2015 compared to 16.1 percent of Hispanic applicants and 10 percent of non-Hispanic white applicants.”
With the goal to introduce their fashion oriented merchandise and services to the public, Timia Darwin and Lakisha Pattin are set for Oct. 29. The two are hosting fashion events less than a mile apart for the stylish minded consumer. From 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Darwin the owner of Timia’s Fashion Salon PGH located at 4705 Liberty Ave. is celebrating the firstyear anniversary of the shop. Between noon and 3 p.m. Pattin the owner of Moda Coeur Shoetique and Focused Fashion Consulting is conducting a Pop-Up Shop event with Sonita Bell of Sonita’s Designs at the Irma Freeman Center of Imagination, 5006 Penn Ave. All three are excited and anxious to share their love for fashion and beauty with their customers and patrons. “In addition to attendees seeing the fashions and items we carry in the boutique they will witness firsthand the work of our hair stylists and makeup artists,” said Darwin. “The afternoon is going to be filled with fun, food, live music and spoken word.” Timia’s Fashions carries women and men clothing, handbags and accessories, jewelry and specialty items on consignment. Pattin said, “Accessories are a major style staple to anyone’s wardrobe.” She describes Moda Coeur Shoetique as a luxury women’s retailer specializing in distinctive styles at affordable prices. “Through Moda I strive to make sure every woman looks and feels good about their image and Saturday will be no different.” Preparing for the fall and holiday season she says participants in the pop-up will be able to purchase from her collection
ONE DOWN MORE TO GO—Jamyce Patterson, PGH Style and GLAM founder takes a breath after producing a successful designer’s showcase event. of moderately priced shoes that include the brands of Rouge, High Class, Nina’s, Electrik and stylish boots. Describing herself as a compassionate and determined women of God who is passionate in her roles as a mother, wife and juvenile delinquency specialist, Darwin said the mission of the boutique is to “educated and enrich lifestyle through Christ and a woman’s natural beauty through healthy hair care and fashion services.” A graduate of Schenley High
School and student of the former Western School of Business, Darwin received her Bachelors’ Degree in Criminal Justice from Point Park University. It wasn’t until February of last year after serving on an advisory board of a major fashion event that she realized her passion for fashion and beauty. “It took me to a different level probing me to open Timia’s, a place where women can get a head to toe look in one location.” Her goal is to open other shops in Pittsburgh and to ex-
pand her brand into New York, Paris and London. “Pittsburgh is an interesting city. It has a lot of potential. I want to be the bridge to bring something different to the city.” Pattin is a graduate of Imani Christian Academy and attended Liberty University where she majored in Biblical Studies. In business for nine years, she said Moda Coeur Shoetique started earlier this year as a brand extension of FoSEE FASHION C2
profiles. At the same time, unequal mortgage lending policies made it harder for Blacks to own homes and thereby denied many wealth-building opportunities that could be shared from one generation to another. “Although the nation’s banks have largely recovered from the financial crisis,” continued CRL, “the 2015 HMDA data illustrate that they are not using their rebuilt capital to create homeownership opportunities, particularly not for borrowers of color and low-income families.” “Before the Great Recession,” added Rothstein, “half of all African-Americans owned their own homes. By 2013, it had fallen to 44 percent. Before the Great Recession, the net worth of African-American homeowners averaged $144,000. By 2013, it had fallen to $80,000. This was not a natural calamity that befell the Black middle class but one precipitated in part by unlawful banking and governmental practices that have mostly gone remedied.” When it comes to homeownership, the facts are clear. The real question for Black America is, ‘what do we intend to do about it?’ Economic inclusion—not exclusion— would offer a real chance to build more Black economic security.
Black America’s still elusive dream of homeownership — mortgage denials persist
Last year more and also tend to be than 6 million Charlene Crowell more costly than home purchase other home loans. mortgages were Now contrast those made, but only dismal numbers 51,202 or 2.7 perwith those from the cent were convenCensus Bureau that tional loans to found Black AmeriBlack home buycans are more than ers. By compari13 percent of the nason, non-Hispanic tion’s population, Whites received and 1.8 million ages 1,361,564 conventional loans, and Latinos 25 and older hold advanced degrees. received 96,975 of these loans. ConvenSo how is it that when Black college tional loans are the most widely available graduation rates are growing and many and often the most cost-effective and sus- are living in the suburbs with higher tainable mortgages available. earnings, why are conventional mortgage The vast majority of loans to Black con- loans so rare for Black borrowers? sumers in 2015 continued a trend that One reason could be that the average has grown stronger year to year since the credit score needed to get a loan has risen housing meltdown: government-backed substantially. In 2015 the average credit loans like FHA or VA account for the over- score for all new loan originations neared whelming majority of loans made to Black 750, a near 50 point increase from the avconsumers—120,618, more than double erage used in 2001. that for conventional loans. Latino conHistorically, federal housing policies also (Charlene Crowell is a communications deputy sumers received more with 162,317 loans; gave advantages to Whites that were not but far less compared to 765,880 for available to Blacks. As a result, many director with the Center for Responsible Lending. can be reached at CharWhites. Government secured mortgage Whites were able to build up significant She loans are an important source of credit wealth that contributes to stronger credit lene.crowell@responsiblelending.org.)
Commentary
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NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
BUSINESS
Giant Eagle supermarket chain offering corporate buyouts PITTSBURGH (AP)—The Giant Eagle supermarket chain is offering buyouts to about 1 percent of its 34,000 corporate employees, or roughly 340 workers. The company, based in the Pittsburgh suburb of O’Hara Township, announced Monday that it’s cutting costs because of falling grocery prices, and analysts contend the company is also dealing with increased competition from discount grocers like Aldi. “It’s all about the money and trying to keep the company profitable,” said Milwaukee-based analyst David Livingston. “These are employees up in age. They’re ready for retirement. It’s a cost-saving move.” The chain owns or operates more than 420 supermarkets and GetGo! Convenience stores and other outlets in Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia and Maryland. The buyouts don’t affect store employees like cashiers and baggers but are limited to corporate employees. “The company has realized a need to
GIANT EAGLE—Kendre Crawford-Blue and Teona Ringgold speaking with Ronelle Robinson about job opportunities at Giant Eagle. (Courier File Photo)
food pricing.” Supermarket chains have also been struggling to compete with online grocery delivery services and the cheaper prices offered by no-frills Aldi stores and other discounters. The federal Bureau of Labor Statistics said foodat-home prices have declined nearly 2 percent in the last year, with most of that fueled by prices for meats, poultry, fish and eggs. Other grocery chains have been repositioning themselves in the market recently, including Minneapolis-based Supervalu Inc., which said Monday it’s selling its Save-A-Lot business to Onex Corp. of Canada for $1.37 billion.
Full service TD Ameritrade to buy Scottrade security firm in $4bil cash-and-stock deal maximize cost efficiencies, reduce Dan Donovan said, adding that the overhead costs and streamline our decision is driven by various factors supply chain,” company spokesman including “deflationary trends in
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velop a posture of strength, develop a posture of “cando”, develop a posture of turning “no’s” into what it is you want it to be, and also develop a posture of comradery—knowing that we get nowhere by ourselves.” She strongly believes in the African proverb that says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go far, go together.” As the author of a best-selling book entitled The Chick in Charge, and the founder of the Mary Parker Foundation, Parker also believes in providing aspiring and rising entrepreneurs with the tools, support, and resources necessary “to not only succeed, but bring others with them once they win!” (For more details about her company, All-N-One Security, visit www.alln1security.com) (For more details about her foundation, visit www.maryparker foundation.com)
Leadership Conference OCT. 26 through OCT. 28— Duquesne University will host an Emerging Women’s Leadership Conference, in the Brittany Conference Room of Des Places Hall on its 600 Forbes Ave. Campus. Presented through the Duquesne University Palumbo-Donahue School of Business Executive, the conference is designed to help business women further develop their leadership skills, addressing topics such as influencing across the organization; leading in a multigenerational environment; and leading through change. For more information, call 412.396.5642 or email milcarekj@duq.edu.
MyBusiness Training Sessions OCT. 29—The Chatham Women’s Business Center will present “MyBusiness Startup to Product Fall 2106, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Braun Hall, Woodland Road, Pittsburgh, Pa. 15232. This program includes intensive entrepreneurial training and is designed for women in the early stages of starting a product-based business. The deadline to apply is SEPT. 30. Cost is $300, $250 for members. Apply Online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/st artuproduct.
Leadership Address
by Josh Funk AP Business Writer
OMAHA, Neb. (AP) _ Online brokerage TD Ameritrade is buying Scottrade in a $4 billion cash-and-stock deal that would significantly expand its branch network at a time when many financial firms are expanding automated adviser programs. In the two-stage deal announced Monday, TD Bank Group will buy Scottrade Bank first from Scottrade Financial Services Inc. for $1.3 billion in cash, and Scottrade Bank will be folded into TD Bank Then, TD Ameritrade will buy Scottrade Financial Services for $2.7 billion in
cash and stock. Part of that purchase will be financed by selling 11 million shares to TD Bank, which will continue to control 41 percent of TD Ameritrade’s stock. TD Ameritrade said that the transaction adds significant scale to its retail business and more than quadruples the size of its network of about 100 branch offices. TD Ameritrade CEO Tim Hockey said the branches should help it better serve clients. ``Financial decisions are very important to people and they like talking with someone they know and they can talk to in their community,’’ Hockey said. TD Ameritrade anticipates about $450 million in
combined annual expense savings. Combined, TD Ameritrade and Scottrade had $944 billion in total client assets and 600,000 average client trades per day for the year ended Sept. 30, on a pro forma basis. Scottrade founder and CEO Rodger Riney will join TD Ameritrade’s board. The deal is targeted to close by Sept. 30, 2017. In addition to the Scottrade deal, TD Ameritrade said its fourth-quarter profit declined 13 percent to $185 million, or 35 cents per share, as trading slowed. The company generates revenue from a combination of transaction fees, assetbased fees and investor edu-
cation fees. Officials believe adding Scottrade’s clients will boost revenue with more trades and more opportunities to offer investment advice. TD Ameritrade’s fourthquarter results fell short of the 38 cents per share analysts surveyed by Zacks Investment Research expected. TD Ameritrade said it expects to generate earnings per share between $1.50 and $1.80 next year excluding the Scottrade deal. Shares of TD Ameritrade Holding Corp. declined 90 cents, or 2.4 percent, to sell for $36.18 in morning trading Monday. Its shares have risen more than 6 percent over the past year.
Fashion experts hosting Saturday events
OCT. 31—The Annual Autumn Black History Awards event will feature a keynote address form Motivational Leadership expert Tony Richards, 7 p.m., at the Pittsburgh Airport Marriott, 777 Aten Rd., Moon Township, 15108. Richards is the founder of Impact Dakota, a leadership organization providing services to business designed to improve workforce development, supply chain integration, innovation and technology transfer. This event is sponsored by Rev. David Clark to honor clergy assisting people battling addictions. For more information, call 412-313-3826 or visit online at firstaidtreatmentforhumanity@yahoo.com
PennDOT Bid Proposal Deadline Through OCT. 31—PennDOT has announced it is accepting proposals for its Public-Private Partnerships. During this period, the private sector can submit proposals offering innovative ways to deliver transportation projects across a variety of modes including roads, bridges, rail, aviation and ports. The state’s P3 law allows PennDOT and other transportation authorities and commissions to partner with private companies to participate in delivering, maintaining and financing transportation-related projects. Instructions on how to submit a project and information on the unsolicited proposal review process can be found on the state’s P3 website, www.P3forPA.com.
Black Economic Summit
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cused Fashion Consulting. An award-winning fashion stylist she describes her business as a styling agency operating in Pittsburgh, throughout the United States and abroad. Offering a tri-fold service of hair, makeup and wardrobe, the company provides wardrobe consulting, makeup-artistry, hairstyling, coordination of fashion events and conducts
BUSINESS BUSINESS CALENDAR CALENDAR
SHOES AND MORE—Moda Coeur Shoetique and Focused Fashion Consulting owner Lakisha Pattin shows a few pairs of shoes that will be on sale Saturday at her shoe pop-up event.
ONE YEAR AND COUNTING—Timia Darwin, owner of Timia’s Fashion & Salon PGH prepares inventory for the store’s October 29 anniversary celebration. (Photos by Diane I. Daniels)
various types of workshops. She said her company meets the needs of clients of all styles from the everyday person to celebrities of all levels. “We assist our clients in discovering their style, how to enhance it and how to leave a lasting impression with their image.” A Visual Merchandiser for Macys at Monroeville Mall, Pattin said it would be a delight to serve as the personal stylist for actress Angela Bassett, singer Kelly Rowland and actor/producer Nate Parker. “Style, fashion and industry related activities are growing in this city,” Darwin points out mentioning recent activities she has hosted for Jamyce Patterson founder of PGH Style and GLAM and owner of In Divine Style, an online fashion boutique. “It is also good to see people blogging about fashion like Charmaine Turner who authors “I Love Big Girls Who Rock a plus size fashion blog.” Darwin and Pattin view Saturday between noon and 4 p.m. in the Bloomfield and Garfield sections of the city as a perfect example and time to experience distinctive styles, fashion, shoes, accessories and hairstyles. The anniversary celebration of Timia’s Fashion Salon PGH and Pop-Up Shop hosted by Moda Coeur Shoetique is a time to experience the love for fashion and beauty from two of the regions fashion cautious entrepreneurs.
NOV. 13—Stop the Violence Pittsburgh will host a Black Economic Empowerment Summit, 58:30 p.m. at the Kelly Strayhorn Theater, 5941 Penn Ave. in East Liberty. The program will feature presentations by Boyce Watkins and Jay Morrison examining issues such as Starting a Business, Investing, Making money on the Internet, Marketing for Success, and Real Estate Investing. Tickets are $30, $40 for VIP package. For more information call 724-2059376 or visit stoptheviolencepittsburgh@yahoo.com
Business Luncheon NOV. 30—The African American Chamber of Commerce of Western Pennsylvania will host its Annual Business Luncheon, 12:00 p.m. in the Omni William Penn Hotel Grand Ballroom 17th Floor, 530 William Penn Place, Downtown. Speaker: Loretta J. Mester, President and CEO Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland. Please R.S.V.P. by Wednesday, November 26, 2016 at 412-392-0610
Business Energy Efficiency Grants THROUGH APRIL 15—The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has to $1,000,000 of grant funding available in the 13th year of the Commonwealth’s Small Business Advantage Grant Program for small businesses that adopt or acquire equipment or processes that promote pollution prevention and/or energy efficiency projects. Applicants must be a for-profit corporation, limited liability corporation, partnership, sole proprietorship or other legal entity with 100 or fewer full-time employees. Businesses can apply for 50 percent matching funds of up to $9,500 to adopt or acquire energyefficient or pollution-prevention equipment or procedures. Funding is eligible for those costs incurred between July 25, 2016 and June 30, 2017. For more information, contact the Small Business Ombudsman’s Office at 717-772-5160.
SPORTS New Pittsburgh Courier
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OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
West Allegheny ruins Woodland Hills’ homecoming on Redemption Friday
by Smokin’ Jim Frazier For New Pittsburgh Courier
You heard the popular expression “revenge is a dish best served on a cold rainy Friday night at the Wolverina.” West Allegheny, (7-0), is the No. 1 ranked team in the WPIAL 5A Class and the Indians had to wait a year to finally get another shot at Woodland Hills. The Wolverines graduated 32 seniors and coach Bob Palko and his staff was happy to see that Miles Sanders, Wilford Clark, Amir Cobbs, Daron Cooper, Tearl Gray, Payton Hicks, Eric Mitchell, Stephen Puhl, Jordan Scarbrough, Lamont Spratley, Tyriq Thompson, Chris Wilson, Jermaine Wynn and Jo-El Shaw are now playing college football and no longer sporting turquoise, black and white. Rain, heavy winds, cold temperature and The West Allegheny Indians ruined Woodland Hills Homecoming Weekend. The Indians stayed undefeated and clinched the Allegheny Nine Conference title Friday with a 52-13 win over Woodland Hills. Woodland Hills drew first blood when Toledo recruit Saeed Holt raced 64-yards for a touchdown. Super sophomore kicker Charles Hanchett tacked on the PAT to give the home team a 7-0 lead. West Allegheny tied the score 7-7 when junior running back Kenny “Hydroplane” Wright raced 45 yards for a touchdown. The complexion of the game changed when the Wolverine’s drove inside the Indians 5-yard line and had a chance to take a 10-7 lead and a West Allegheny defender put a cheap shot on kicker Charles Hanchett long after the whistle was blown. Hanchett, is the only kicker on the Woodland Hills varsity roster, so when he got knockout of the game the Wolverines was
now forced to go for a touchdown instead of a “chip-shot” field goal. Two-way lineman and team captain Matt Holmes played like a man possessed in the first half. He made a game changing tackle on 4th and goal after kicker Hanchett got hurt. West Allegheny’s special team was also important. The Indians blocked two punts and had great punt and kickoff returns giving them excellence field position. After West Allegheny’s D.J. Opsatnik kicked a 46-yard field goal—the 29th of his career—Woodland Hills went back ahead, 13-10, on Holt’s 23-yard touchdown run. “I knew we were ready to play tonight,” said coach Bob Palko. “We sat on the Parkway for an hour-and-a-half and didn’t move and our players didn’t flinch.” The Indians defense, which had allowed only one touchdown in the past five games, was superb after allowing two scores in the first l6 minutes. Kenny Wright rushed for 120 yards on only 10 carries. “I was just running behind my offensive line and I just followed them all game,” said Wright. “My brother Whitney played here and he helped me to get better. We worked together all off-season and I just went up against him when I didn’t have anyone else. I just battled with him. To get to Heinz Field and win a championship we just have to play as a team and play as a brotherhood and focus as one.” But West Allegheny has a not-so-secret weapon to combat Woodland Hills’ various athletic advantages—Brandon Lipford. Brandon Lipford turned two short passes from Nick Ross into touchdowns of 51 and 55 yards and he was nothing short of spectacular. No one on the West Allegheny football team can cover or run with receiver Brandon Lipford in practice. Then again, Wood-
DARIUS HEYWARD-BEY gets an uncalled facemask.
LANDRY JONES takes the helm for the Steelers.
land Hills didn’t have anyone who could do it, either. Lipford, put up Player of the Week type numbers. He caught six passes for 137 yards, had two long touchdown receptions and had three carries for 43 yards. On top of that, he returned two kickoffs for 70 yards, and returned one punt for 20 yards and even completed a pass for 19 yards. “Brandon Lipford has been doing that in practice everyday, so we are not surprised,” said coach Palko. “We are really proud of him. He has come a long way as a young man and we are real happy for him and happy he’s having some success.” One of the main reasons that Woodland Hills never rebuilds and seems to always reloads is because coach George Novak has a great coaching staff. Assistants Cliff Moncrief, Kevin Murray, Harvey Inglis, Jon Carter, Tim Bostard, Michael “BB” Breaston, Scott Henderson, Brian Dawson, Denny Damico, Cliff Thompson, Greg Smith, Ronald Graham, Joe Samsa, Larry Whiteherse and Stevie Breaston. Stevie Breaston scored 34 touchdowns as a high school senior and the last time a Breaston was on the field with a Palko was in the 2002 Big 33 game when Breaston was catching touchdown passes from Tyler Palko. Tyler Palko did not attend the game on Friday night but he had a hand in the outcome. “We knew we were going to be in a fight and we prepared all week. The night before the game we got an inspiring speech from an awesome player Tyler Palko,” said Matt Holmes. “Tyler is a tremendous motivator and he compared this game to a fight. They came out swinging and we punched back. Plain and simple I believe we have the best coaching staff. Just because of how much time they put into film
and preparing us. Being team captain is an honor. West Allegheny is all about the players who came before us and being captain is a honor.” Woodland Hills is made up of athletes from Braddock, Braddock Hills, Chalfant, Churchill, East Pittsburgh, Edgewood, Forest Hills, North Braddock, Rankin, Swissvale, Turtle Creek and Wilkins Township. Each community carries a lot of pride. But of all the twists and turns in coach Novak’s story, the most remarkable—and ultimately the most significant—is during Woodland Hills’ 30 years of existence, the Wolverines qualified for the WPIAL Playoffs 27 times. Over 100 Woodland Hills football players have received Division I scholarship and fourteen Wolverines have played in the NFL and they are: Jason Taylor, Chris Edmonds, Shawntae Spencer, Lousaka Polite, Stevie Breaston, Ryan Mundy, Terrence Johnson, Wes Lyons, Monte Simmons, Darrin Walls, Rontez Miles, Quinton Jefferson, LaFayette Pitts and record setting tight-end Rob Gronkowski. The Wolverines are coming off the worst home loss in the school’s history, which opened in 1987. It was the first mercy rule at home. Woodland Hills once went almost five years (1998-2003) without losing a home game. Don’t count out seniors Saeed Holt, Derrick Carraway, Asheed Page-Jones, Ja’Juan Hill, Avram Abramovitz or “Big Mike” McAllister just yet. The Wolverines are probably “reloading” for the playoffs as we speak and looking forward to meeting West Allegheny at Heinz Field on Friday, Nov. 18. Woodland Hills will administer their own version of “Redemption Friday” at Heinz Field.
STEPHON TUITT takes down LeGarrette Blount. (Photos by Thomas Sabol)
Le’VEON BELL gets escorted off the field.
ROBERT GOLDEN chases down a Patriot.
Inside Conditions…The ‘Menda’ syndrome by Aubrey Bruce For New Pittsburgh Courier
The New England Patriots and their Boston baked beans crew visited the Pittsburgh Steelers last Sunday and beat the Black and Gold as expected by the score of 27-16. As a result the Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick has again been redubbed “the genius.” The masses have time and time again been hoodwinked into thinking and chewing the fat about the everlasting and never ending pool of resources located within the “cranial cavern” of Bill Belichick. The Steelers lost because they didn’t execute and they
missed too many opportunities in the “red zone,” not because of the genius of Bill Belichick. Dropped passes, missed field goals. Little or no pressure on the quarterback, not being able to stop the run or the pass. Belichick can coach it but he cannot perform for his players, they have to do that themselves. I have scoured all of the sources of information in regards to post game analysis that I can think of and I have come up with a beauty. Football aficionado Steave Hoover posted this on espn.com. “Truth be told, I have never been a NE fan. In fact, I’ve loathed them for many years until recently. Always an Eagle’s
AUBREY BRUCE fan, I decided to read anything I could find about Bill Belichick and what I’ve come across is he’s a modern day coaching genius. In fact, I believe he’s one of the five greatest coaches
ever in football, professional and college included. He does things his own way in spite of what others might think of him. I’m intrigued at how he exploits the mistakes his foes make. He’s a credit to football, to me he brings back the way the game was played 50 years ago. NE is quite fortunate to have a winner as its coach. I would love to see them as the American Conference rep to this year’s Super Bowl.” “Genius: [jeen-yuh s] 1. An exceptional natural capacity of intellect, especially as shown in creative and original work in science, art, music, etc.: the genius of Mozart. The guardian spirit of a place,
institution, etc. 2. Either of two mutually opposed spirits, one good and the other evil, supposed to attend a person throughout life. A person who strongly influences for good or ill the character, conduct, or destiny of a person, place, or thing:” Now the genius of Bill Belichick did influence the good and the ill of his players, their conduct and the destinies of the teams and the cities that they cheated out of possible Super Bowls and championships. As far as I am concerned, the only genius about the cheating Patriots is how they have convinced “dullards” disguising themselves as fans that the
Patriots and their head coach are the watershed of football intellect and excellence. Bill Belichick is no more a genius than Pete Rose was when he was exposed illegally betting on baseball games. He is no smarter than the players caught in the “Black Sox” baseball scandal that happened during the beginning of the twentieth century.. Listen up boys’ and girls,’ neither you, me, or the the gatepost can ever be a genius, if we get caught, you dig…….Peace out. (The source for his column was espn.com) (Aubrey Bruce can be reached at: abruce@newpittsburghcourier.com or 412-583-6741. Follow him on Twitter@ultrascribe.)
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SPORTS
OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016
SUPER TRIO—From left: Warner Macklin, Sam Clancy, and David Kennedy from Fifth Avenue/Brashear formed one of the greatest nucleuses in City League history. Winning three City League championships, PIAA Semi-Finals and a state championship.
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
ROY ZELLARS
CITY LEAGUE High School All Sports Hall of Fame
KEITH KEY
LISA FALOON
by Bill Neal
WILL MACON
AL JACKS
BOBBY HOWARD
Overtime…A very special edition
liams representing North Side and well, but not just a hoop star, Magic had the :10—If you’re going to get football and softball skills started, let’s get started as well but took his superiin the beginning. Player or basketball talent to Div. turned coach, Rich Allew I basketball south of the took his star-studded team border…down Mexico way! to Connie Hawkins gold :07—She has joined the right out the gate. Some ranks of those great female would suggest that it’s an basketball players from easy run with the likes Western PA that others of Norm Nixon, Bobby would be compared to. Franklin, Kirk Bruce, John Out of Mount Alvernia Marshall and Craig Pross- High School, a legit star, er, but players and coaches Karen Hall took her skills know how hard it is to to UNLV. She became the control the stars. Hey, you first woman to play in the tell “Big John” Marshall to Connie Hawkins League sit down and shut up…and Men’s Division and the Coach Allew did! first to win a title as a :09—Not much more can coach… “Back to Back”… or has to be said after you BAM!!! say “Big John.” 6’6” 250 :06—Smooth as the other pound mmmaaannn. John side of the pillow, the back Marshall out of Clairton by of your hand…and yes, real way of Penn State and the leather, Brace Lowe played European League, one of the game cool, calm, and the great immovable forces collected. A combination of of the game. quickness and power, with :08—Look, if for over 30 superior leadership skills years in a city the size of moves him into the Hall Pittsburgh you say “Magic” and guess what? Today and everyone knows who he’s still a leader…and still you’re talking about, that cool. tells you all you need to :05—Jeffrey Hutcherknow. “Magic Mike” Wilson…part of the 1978 Div For New Pittsburgh Courier
BILL NEAL II Cheyney University National Champions, the only male basketball player out of Pittsburgh with an NCAA championship (The other is a woman Swin Cash) and his picture hangs in the Cheyney University Hall of Fame. Lightning quick, tough and above the rim. You know Jeffrey better as Whitemouse!!! Now you know. :04—Darrin “Skywalker” Walls. Here’s the compliment. This Waynesburg College Hall of Famer is one of the smartest, nicest and quality young men I -
HAVE - EVER - KNOWN, but don’t get it twisted. He will eat you alive. End of the night while he’s shaking your hand and flashing that smile, he just gave you 30 points, eight of which would come on power dunks, 15 rebounds, 10 assists, 4 steals and 2 blocked shots…a-huh… now you remember! :03—So you’re forgetting the PIAA Title and the national domination he showcased leading Cincinnati University to Final Four status. So I guess you forgot he was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks. I’m guessing you may have forgot the legend that is David “Puffy” Kennedy because of the magnificence of his son D.J. a legend still in the making. But I bet you this, I bet you remember him going by you. I bet you remember the work that wiry frame gave you in the paint and I know you remember that look in his eye when he knew… that you knew your time was up! :02—He was a man among boys before the
phrase became popular. Always the gentleman, but there was never any doubt about his dominance on the basketball court. Pure power and grace. This Duquesne University star was as good as anybody anywhere at any time. I’m sure he will tell you that his greatness is showcased best through his very successful children and the icing of this legendary cake is he’s the only man I ever saw dunk on Connie Hawkins…and for real. Of course by now you know I’m talking about the greatness of Bill Clark. :01—I could, in fact, write a book on this guy. Last and by no means least, he is without question the most dominant basketball player in Pittsburgh high school history…for that matter, the same is true regarding his remarkable career at Pitt University. This Hall of Fame legend simply destroyed teams single handedly and you only need to call Patrick Ewing to be reminded of his dominance. And just for
fun while we continue to wait for his uniform jersey to hang from the Peterson Event Center rafters… he gave you “15 years” in the NFL. You don’t have to ask nobody…you know it’s “Sam Bam” Clancy. :00:00—DOUBLE OVERTIME Meet and salute these “Connie Hawkins” legends when inducted into the Hall of Fame at the 3rd Annual Pittsburgh City League High School AllSports Hall of Fame Inductions,along with those pictured here, Sunday, Nov. 6, at the world famous Heinz History Center. Reception at 5 p.m. Awards at 6 p.m. $50 ticket for adults, $25 for 12 and under, free admission to the History Center 2-5 p.m. Hors d’oeuvres and refreshments, no alcohol, Dress to Impress, 50/50, autographs and photographs and “The Night of the Champions!!!” (Be reminded the event sold out the first two years.) Only 100 tickets left as we speak. 412-628-4856 for info. ~ GAME OVER ~
CLASSIFIED New Pittsburgh Courier
C5
OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Help Wanted
Help Wanted
SONNY BOY
PART-TIME POLICE OFFICERS
Braddock Borough is seeking Parttime police officers application and job descriptions are in the Borough office. Candidate must possess and maintain a valid PA Driver License and be Act 120 Certified. Successful candidates must pass a drug test and be mentally and physically fit to perform the duties of a police officer. Be at least 21 years of age. There is no residency requirement; however local residents are encouraged to apply. Interested candidates should complete an application at the Braddock Borough Office located on 415 Sixth Street, Braddock PA 15104 No phone calls please A copy of the job description is available at the Borough office during normal business hours 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Seneca Valley School District ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL
12-month position, Intermediate High School; available immediately; approx. 1,176 student enrollment; salary regionally competitive; PA Principal K-12 certification required; secondary experience preferred; work with technology, curriculum alignment along with standards-based and data driven instruction; strong leadership, communication and interpersonal skills. Submit required information to Talent Ed at: https://senecavalley.cloud.talentedk12.com/hire/ index.aspx. Deadline: November 1, 2016. Seneca Valley is committed to diversity in the workplace. E.O.E.
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
LEGAL ADVERTISING
LEGAL ADVERTISING
Meetings
Legal Notices
Legal Notices
MEETING
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR BALCONY REPAIRS AT PA BIDWELL, PA-15 HACP CONTRACT NO. 600-43-16-G-E
S.R. 380/ Penn Circle 2 Way Conversion PUBLIC MEETING Date: November 1, 2016 Presentation and Discussion: 6:00 – 8:00 PM Location: East Liberty Presbyterian Church 116 S. Highland Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15206 The Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh is beginning planning to convert Station Street and Euclid Avenue (the last remaining pieces of the former Penn Circle) to two-way traffic. The project is intended to provide increased safety, mobility, and connectivity in and around East Liberty. During the Public Meeting, the public will: •Receive an update on the current status of the project, including schedule •View possible configurations of roadway improvements and treatments of those streets for pedestrians, bikes and cars. •Have the opportunity to provide feedback on the project This meeting is accessible to person with disabilities. Anyone requiring special assistance should contact Rebecca Davidson-Wagner at 412255-6588. Input will be received on the preliminary design as presented until November 18th, 2016.
WESA NEWS DIRECTOR
CONTRACT SPECIALIST – BUS & RAIL
We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Interested candidates should forward a cover letter (with salary requirements) and resume to: Inez Colon Employment Department 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 IColon@portauthority.org EOE
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The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will hold its October 2016 Board of Commissioners meeting on THURSDAY October 27, 2016. THE MEETING WILL BE HELD AT 10:30 A.M. 200 Ross Street, 13th Floor Wherrett Room, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Pittsburgh Community Broadcasting Corporation has an immediate opening for a dynamic leader for its growing newsroom. The person we’re looking for is an experienced journalist skilled in leading the day to day management of a newsroom. He/she will display a level of editorial curiosity that goes beyond superficial reporting of the day’s news, will be a proven leader of strong teams, and will be an exceptional communicator. Experience with digital and mobile platforms to engage, grow and serve audiences is essential. For the complete job description and to apply, go to: http:// wesa.fm/topic/905-wesa-employ ment-opportunities
Port Authority is seeking a Contract Specialist – Bus & Rail to be responsible for procurement contract administration on assigned Request for Bid (RFB) and Request for Quote (RFQ). To facilitate the Request for Bid (RFB) solicitation process for securing agreements; prepare and oversee the Request for Quote (RFQ) process; provide contract administration for assigned contracts; and to facilitate the processing of contract material requiring laboratory and field tests. To provide support to the Manager of Contract Administration. Job requirements include: •High School Diploma or GED. •Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or related field from an accredited school. Contract Administration and/or Buyer experience within a contracting environment may be substituted for the education on a year-for-year basis. •Minimum of five (5) years contract administration experience and/or buyer experience within a contracting environment procuring capital or non-capital contracts and supplies including preparing bid documents, administering awards, contracts and preparing requisitions. •Demonstrated ability in the use of Windows, Microsoft Excel and Word. •Professional and effective communication skills. •Strong organizational and people skills, multi-tasking capabilities, detail oriented with good math skills, and the ability to work with minimum supervision. Preferred attributes: •BA/BS Degree in contract management or procurement field from an accredited school. •Electronic procurement experience in PeopleSoft / Oracle. •Contract management or related certification. •Valid PA driver’s license. •PeopleSoft experience.
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Port Authority “connects people to life…” our engineering project manager ensures our roads, bridges, tracks and tunnels support the mission.
MANAGER OF CAPITAL PROGRAMS - STRUCTURES
Responsibilities: •Manage Staff, Consultants and Contractors •Manage Capital Improvement Program for highway, bridge, tunnel, light rail and similar related projects •Manage financial, schedule, and quality control •Manage bridge and tunnel inspection program Requirements: •BS Degree in Civil Engineering or related engineering field •Seven (7) years of progressive experience in design and/or construction management of bridges and structures, i.e. capital and professional service projects, quality control, dispute resolution, financial and schedule control; •Four (4) of the seven years must be in a project lead role •Two (2) years in a management supervisory role •Valid PA driver’s license •Demonstrated ability in the use of Microsoft Windows Preferred Requirements: •Registered Professional Engineer (PE) in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania •Certification for Bridge Safety Inspection (CBSI) and Fracture Critical Inspection in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or comparable certifications from another state •Demonstrated ability in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Bridge Inspection Management Software
We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Interested candidates should forward a cover letter (with salary requirements) and resume to: Robyn Taylor Employment Department 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 RTaylor@portauthority.org EOE
SCHOOLS Training
APPRENTICESHIP:
The Joint Apprenticeship Committee of the Heat & Frost Insulators and Allied Workers Local #2, Pittsburgh, PA is accepting applications for consideration towards apprenticeship in the Insulator and Asbestos Worker Trade. Applications are accepted without regard to Race, Religion, National Origin, Sex, Age, or Disability. Applicants must be a minimum of 18 years of age at the time of application; have a high school diploma at the time of application or G.E.D.; have a dependable form of transportation; and must be physically fit to perform the work of the trade. Applications must be obtained in person Monday through Saturday: October 31, through November 5, 2016 and Monday through Thursday: November 7 through November 10, 2016 between the hours of 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM at the Insulators Training Center, 109 Pleasant Drive Suite B, Aliquippa, PA 15001. Photo identification is required and there is a $25.00 (non-refundable) application-processing fee, to be paid by certified check or money order. LEGAL ADVERTISING Legal Notices
Estate of ELEANOR J. MORAN deceased of Pittsburgh, No. 021605485 of 2016 Carol Ann Moran, Extr. or to c/o Philip J. Scolieri, Esquire, Scolieri Law Group, P.C., 1207 Fifth Avenue, Suite 200 Bldg., Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Estate of ESTHER WALDER KLIONSKY, a/k/a ESTHER MIRIAM WALDER KLIONSKY, deceased of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania No. 02-16-04160. Daniel Klionsky, Executor, 6625 Woodwell Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15217 or to Robert B. Wolf, Esquire, Tener, Van Kirk, Wolf & Moore, P.C., One Oxford Center, Suite 2100, 301 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH will receive separate sealed bids for Balcony Repairs at PA Bidwell Highrise, PA . The construction work is estimated to begin in April 2017. The estimated values of the project are in the following ranges General Construction $500,000.00 - $725,000.00; Electrical Construction $25,000.00 $35,000.00 Bid Documents will be available on or about Monday, October 17, 2016 for a non-refundable fee of $25.00 in the form of a CERTIFIED CHECK OR MONEY ORDER ONLY. Bid Documents, including bid forms, project manual, and drawings can be picked up in person, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 100 Ross Street, Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Kim Detrick, Director of Procurement A Pre-Bid Conference and Site Visit will be held on Friday, October 28, 2016 at 10:00 a.m.: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh PA Bidwell 1014 Sheffield Street Pittsburgh, PA 15233 A site visit will be conducted thereafter. Bidders shall come prepared to review all aspects of the construction site necessary to prepare a bid. Bids will be received at: HACP Procurement Department 100 Ross Street, Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Attn: Kim Detrick, Director of Procurement until 2:00 p.m. Monday, November 7, 2016 at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH reserves the right to waive any informality in, or reject any and all bids. No bid shall be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days subsequent to the opening of bids without the consent of the HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH. The Contractor will be required to comply with all applicable Equal Employment Opportunity requirements for Federally Assisted Construction Contracts. The Contractor must ensure that employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sexual preference, handicap or national origin. HACP has revised its website. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and log-in, in order to view and download IFB/RFP documentation. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH STRONGLY ENCOURAGES CERTIFIED MINORITY-OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES AND WOMAN-OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES TO RESPOND TO THE SOLICITATION. Additional information may be obtained by contacting Kim Detrick, Director of Procurement at (412) 456-5116 Opt 1. Caster D. Binion, Executive Director HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.
To place a display ad in the New Pittsburgh Courier call 412-481-8302 ext. 128 or 129
REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
The Washington County Housing Authority requests proposals for Architectural and Engineering services relative to design and construction work funded by the Capital Fund Programs. Work under this program will take place over the next two years at various sites located in Washington County. See “Attachment #1” for a list of proposed construction activities and their anticipated budget costs by site and year. Proposals will be received no later than 4:00 P.M. prevailing time, Tuesday, November 8, 2016. The Authority will evaluate all responses to this request and eliminate those that are obviously unqualified to provide the required services. The Housing Authority will make award to the most responsible firm, whose offer conforms to this solicitation and is the most advantageous to the Housing Authority. Award for this solicitation considers both technical quality and cost factors. The Authority reserves the right to reject any and all proposals. Firms will be required to comply with all applicable requirements for federally funded construction contracts, specifically: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, Executive Order 11246, Section 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and Section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 as amended. Performance goals and compliance requirements that are related to Federal contract provisions are available to all that respond to this request. The Washington County Housing Authority does not discriminate in employment, Federal contracts or subcontracts, or housing programs due to race, color, religion, sex, disability or national origin. Further information concerning this request may be obtained by contacting Donna Becker, at the central offices of the Washington County Housing Authority, 100 Crumrine Tower, Franklin St., Washington, PA 15301, (724) 228-6060 Ext. 118. WASHINGTON COUNTY HOUSING AUTHORITY STEPHEN K. HALL, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
INVITATION TO BIDDERS ECMS Designated Contract CITY OF PITTSBURGH DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS ADVERTISEMENT PROJECT: Mon Wharf Switch-Back Pedestrian Ramp ECMS NO. 73390 BTE PROJECT NO. 15301
The City of Pittsburgh, in cooperation with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, will be accepting bids, through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s Engineering and Construction Management System (ECMS), for the construction of a switch-back pedestrian ramp from the Smithfield Bridge to the Mon-Wharf in the downtown area of the City. The construction plans and specifications can only be viewed on the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s ECMS website http:// www.dot14.state.pa.us/ECMS/. The bid documents should be available on, or shortly after, Thursday, October 27, 2016. Only electronic bids from ECMS business partners will be accepted. To register as a business partner go to http://www.dotdom2.state. pa.us/ECMS/ECMSHome.nsf/ frmECMSframeset?open&eur dECMS_Business_Partner.nsf/ frmBPPublicHome?OpenForm). All bidders (and subcontractors) on this project must be prequalified by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for the type of work to be performed. An optional Pre-Bid meeting will be held on Monday, November 14,2016, at 9:00 a.m., EDT in Room 301 of the City-County Building, 414 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. The bid opening (Let Date) is scheduled for Thursday, December 1, at 11:00 a.m., EDT. Bidders may view the bid opening online. Michael Gable, CPRP, Director Public Works Sam Ashbaugh, Director Office of Management and Budget
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OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016 NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
LEGAL ADVERTISING
LEGAL ADVERTISING
Bids/Proposals
Bids/Proposals
SONNY BOY
LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT Port Authority of Allegheny County REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL NO. 16-09
Port Authority of Allegheny County is requesting proposals for the performance of the following services: CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT SERVICES The Construction Management Services (Contract Services) under the proposed agreements will be in the categories of (A) Bridges; (B) Heavy & Highway; C) Garage & Facility; D) Way & Site Work; and E) Systems & Electrical. The required Contract Services include, but are not limited to, bid/award phase support, constructability reviews, construction management and inspection, field surveying, claim support, project management/ administration and related tasks. Authority intends to enter into agreements with pools of up to two (2) firms for each of the above-identified categories that can be called upon on an as-needed basis. While it is currently Authority’s intention to enter into agreements with pools of up to two (2) firms per category, this number may be adjusted up or down, at Authority’s sole discretion, based upon the number of proposals received and Authority’s evaluation of same in relation to its construction management services needs in the above-identified categories. Proposals may be submitted to provide Contract Services in one or more of the identified categories. The required Contract Services will be issued on a work order basis as they are approved to proceed by Authority. The agreements will be for a three (3) year period with the option to extend their terms up to one additional year at the sole discretion of Authority. A copy of the RFP will be available on or after October 24, 2016, and can be obtained by registering at the Port Authority ebusiness website: http:// ebusiness.portauthority.org and following the directions listed on the website. Please note that Proposers must register under one or more of following ebusiness categories for this RFP: ENGINEERING Engineering ENGCM Engineering – Construction Management ENGENV Engineering – Environmental ENGGAE Engineering – General Architectural/Engineering ENGINS Engineering – Construction Inspection ENGPM Engineering – Project Management ENGSC Engineering – Systems/Communications Proposers may also register in other categories for any future RFPs issued by Port Authority. If you have specific questions regarding this RFP, please contact Robert Sechler at 412-566-5148. An Information Meeting for interested parties will be held at 9:30 a.m., prevailing time, November 2, 2016 in the Fifth Floor Board Room of Port Authority of Allegheny County’s downtown offices, 345 Sixth Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to answer any questions regarding this RFP. Hard copy proposals must be both delivered to, and time stamped by a representative of the Purchasing and Materials Management Department at or before 2:00 p.m., prevailing time, November 30, 2016 to the Purchasing and Materials Management Department, Port Authority of Allegheny County, 345 Sixth Avenue, Third Floor, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 152222527. Proposals received or time stamped in the Purchasing and Materials Management Department after the advertised time for the submission of proposals shall be non-responsive and therefore ineligible for award. Each Proposer shall be solely responsible for assuring that its proposal is timely received and time stamped in accordance with the requirements herein. Please note that a sealed Summary of Costs should NOT be submitted with either the hard copy or the electronic version of the Proposal, but will be submitted at a later date as requested by Port Authority. The Contract Services may be financed jointly by the County of Allegheny, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The proposal process and the performance of the requested services will be in accordance with the guidelines and regulations of the FTA “Third Party Contracting Guidelines”, FTA Circular 4220.1F, as amended, and all other applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations. Port Authority of Allegheny County, in compliance with 49 C.F.R., Part 26, as amended, implements positive affirmative action procedures to ensure that all Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) have the maximum opportunity to participate in the performance of contracts and subcontracts financed, in whole or in part, with federal funds provided under the proposed Agreement. In this regard, all recipients or contractors shall take all necessary and reasonable steps in accordance with 49 C. F. R., Part 26, to ensure that DBE’s have the maximum opportunity to compete for and perform contracts. Recipients and their contractors shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, age, disability, national origin or sex in the award and performance of DOT assisted contracts. Port Authority of Allegheny County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.
ALLIES & ROSS MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) FOR Third Party Property Management Agent for RAD Properties RFP# 2016-14
The Allies & Ross Management and Development Corporation (ARMDC) hereby request proposals from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): Third Party Property Management Agent for RAD Properties RFP# 2016-14 The documents will be available no later than October 17, 2016 and signed, sealed proposals will be accepted until 11:00 A.M., November 7, 2016 at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street, 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Parties or individuals interested may obtain information from: Mr. Kim Detrick – Procurement Director/Contracting Officer Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 2nd Floor, Suite 200 100 Ross Street Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-456-5116, Option 1 or by visiting the Business Opportunities section of www.hacp.org A pre bid meeting will be held: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 200 Ross Street, 9th Floor Boardroom Pittsburgh, PA 15219 October 28, 2016 11:00 A.M. The Allies & Ross Management and Development Corporation strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation. ARMDC has revised their website. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and login, in order to view and download IFB/RFPs documentation. Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Allies & Ross Management and Development Corporation
HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR INSTALLATION OF ROLLIN OR WALK-IN SHOWERS AUTHORITY WIDE IFB# 300-47-16
The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request proposals from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): INSTALLATION OF ROLL-IN OR WALK-IN SHOWERS AUTHORITY WIDE IFB# 300-47-16 The documents will be available no later than October 24, 2016 and signed, sealed bids will be accepted until 10:00 a.m. on November 10, 2016 at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, at which time they will be opened and read aloud. Parties or individuals interested in responding may download a copy of the Solicitation from the Business Opportunities page of www.HACP. org. Questions or inquiries should be directed to: Kim Detrick Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-456-5116 Opt 1 A pre bid meeting will be held: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Dept. 100 Ross Street 2nd. Fl. Ste. 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15213 Thursday, November 3, 2016 10:00 A.M. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation. HACP’s has revised their website. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and log-in, in order to view and download IFB/RFPs documentation. Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh
HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.
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Pick up your Courier at these locations WESTERN AREA:
GIANT EAGLE #76 AMES PLAZA, ROUTE 22 CRAFTON BEVERAGE GET IT QUICK CRAFTON/INGRAM 500 GARDEN CITY SHOPPING CENTER DESTINY’S HAIR SALON GIANT EAGLE 408 RODI RD CRAFTON/INGRAM PUFF’S DISCOUNT TOBACCO SHOPPING CENTER 10991 FRANKSTOWN RD SHEETZ #353 SHOP N SAVE 5400 CAMPBELL’S RUN RD 3335 WILLIAM PENN HWY SHOP N’ SAVE #1686 SHEETZ 2103 NOBLESTOWN RD 3457 WILLIAM PENN HWY SAFRANS SUPER MKT GETGO 429 WALNUT ST 10525 FRANKSTOWN RD GIANT EAGLE #74 CVS PHARMACY PARKWAY CENTER MALL 10600 FRANKSTOWN RD SHELL OIL SOUTHERN AREA: 7619 BAUM BLVD KIWI SUNOCO KEN’S FRANKSTOWN AVE 216 BELTZHOOVER AVE WILLIAM PENN NELSON’S SMOKE SHOP II 92 SYLVANIA AVE 132 NORTH HIGHLAND AVE GIANT EAGLE #61 MARATHON GAS 2021 WHARTON AVE 6680 FRANKSTOWN AVE COGO’S PENN AIKEN DAIRY 2400 EAST CARSON ST 5401 PENN AVE COGO’S GIANT EAGLE #17 925 EAST CARSON ST 6320 SHAKESPEARE ST DAILY MART HOMEWOOD MARKET 1125 ARLINGTON AVE 7201 FRANKSTOWN AVE SHOP N’ SAVE SALIK HARDWARE CARRICK 607 NORTH HOMEWOOD AVE NEGLEY A PLUS SOUTH EASTERN AREA: 123 NORTH NEGLEY AVE BAKER’S SUPER STOP 7203 HAMILTON & STERRETT 403 KENMAWR AVE AVES CARL’S CAFE DORSEY’S RECORDS 337 FIFTH AVE 7614 FRANKSTOWN AVE COMET NEWS HOSPITAL CORNER 540 BRADDOCK AVE 4201 PENN AVE PUFFS DISCOUNT TOBACCO PEOPLES GROCERY 1722 GREENSBUR AVE 5136 PENN AVE A-PLUS SUNOCO A&M MARKET 7403 WASHINGTON ST 5224 PENN AVE COGO’S A-PLUS MINI MART 1050 BRINTON RD 7701 PENN AVE COGO’S WOOD & PENN 2003 S BRADDOCK AVE 902 WOOD ST EDGEWOOD EXPRESS AL’S FISH & CHICKEN 253 EDGEWOOD AVE 1000 PENN AVE BRAD EXPRESS SAVE A LOT 1101 S BRADDOCK AVE 725 ROSS AVE GIANT EAGLE #619 CVS PHARMACY 1705 S. BRADDOCK AVE 520 PENN AVE CVS GETGO 7406 CHURCH ST 408 PENN AVE HANINI MARKET QUICK STOP LIBERTY 1105 SWISSVALE AVE 3349 LIBERTY AVE DUKE’S SUNOCO K-2 CONVENIENT STORE 825 DUQUESNE BLVD 4900 PENN AVE 7-11 SHUR SAVE 818 N. DUQUESNE BLVD 4120 MAIN ST GIANT EAGLE #6379 SHELL GAS 420 EAST WATERFRONT DR 6701 FRANKSTOWN RD GIANT EAGLE—MCKEESPORT UNIMART 3812 O’NEILL BLVD 5724 ELLSWORTH AVE J & S FOOD MART GIANT EAGLE #77 625 W GRANT AVE 254 YOST BLVD RITE AID PHARMACY PUFF’S DISCOUNT 100 WILLIAM MARKS DR TOBACCO GIANT EAGLE 234 YOST BLVD 1356 HOFFMAN BLVD SPEEDY MART BP GAS STATION 2131 ARDMORE BLVD LYSLE & WALNUT SQUIRREL HILL NEWS DS FOODMART 5804 FORBES AVE 929 UNION ST MURRAY AVE. NEWS RITE AID PHARMACY 2024 MURRAY AVE 725 LYSLE BLVD GIANT EAGLE CHARLIE’S CORNER STORE MURRAY AVE & 500 LOCUST ST LORETTA ST NEIGHBORHOOD DOLLAR DISCOUNT TOBACCO & NEWS 333 5TH AVE 1929 MURRAY AVE GIANT EAGLE #38 UNIVERSITY OF PGH BOOK1901 MURRAY AVE STORE JACK’S 4000 5TH AVE E 8TH AVE DANA’S BAKERY 720 N. HOMEWOOD AVE EASTERN AREA: DA STORE 606 & 1/2 N. HOMEWOOD AVE WATERWORKS BONUS TIRE SERVICE GIANT EAGLE #72 4349 VERONA RD 1005 FREEPORT RD— KANDY CAFE DIVINE HAIR STUDIO 4291 VERONA RD 10 DUFF RD GIANT EAGLE SHADYSIDE GIANT EAGLE 550 CENTRE AVE 9001 FRANKSTOWN RD MARATHON GAS GIANT EAGLE #78 4010 PENN AVE 230 RODI RD STANTON NEGLEY DRUG BP GAS STATION 804 N. NEGLEY AVE 11835 FRANKSTOWN RD RON’S CORNER DRUG THE SPOT MT. CARMEL RD 11675 FRANKSTOWN RD MASH MINI MART CENTRAL AREA: 4341 OLD WM. PENN HWY GIANT EAGLE #60 GET GO #64 4004 MONROEVILLE BLVD 4924 BAUM BLVD
SCHWARTZ MARKET 1901 5TH AVE SMOKER FRIENDLY 906 5TH AVE HILL DISTRICT: WONG’S MARKET 2170 CENTRE AVE ANN’S MARKET 2316 WEBSTER AVE A-PLUS MINI MART 2350 CENTRE AVE UJAMMA BOUTIQUE 1901 CENTRE AVE K LEROY IRVIS TOWERS 715 MERCER ST SHOP & SAVE SUPERMARKET 1850 CENTRE AVE ABE’S MARKET 1860 CENTRE AVE WYLIE TOBACCO 2152 WYLIE AVE DOWNTOWN: KWIK-E-MART 212-10TH ST 7-11 #167 643 LIBERTY AVE 7-11 #165 SIXTH & PENN AVE 7-11 #170 429 WOOD ST ESTER’S SNAX FEDERAL BUILDING, 2ND FL SMITHFIELD NEWS 115 SMITHFIELD ST FABER COE & GREGG 500 GRANT ST FABER COE & GREGG FIFTH AVE. PLACE FABER COE & GREGG 600 GRANT ST NIELSEN’S STORES #09 301 GRANT ST— ONE OXFORD CENTER NIELSEN’S STORES #13 437 SEVENTH AVE— KOPPERS BUILDING 9TH & PENN NEWS-NUMBERS 136 PENN AVE EXTRA EXTRA NEWS 413 SEVENTH AVE NEAL NEWS 400 CHERRY WAY CVS PHARMACY #4120 610-612 WOOD ST C&C NEWS 2 PPG PLACE NEWSTAND SIXTH & WOOD ONE STOP 300 SIXTH & WOOD EDDIE’S SNACKS 262 5TH AVE BIG DADDY 465 FORBES AVE 711 SMITHFIELD 420 SMITHFIELD ST NORTHERN AREA: W. N. GROCERY 1018 NORTH AVE. NORTH SIDE BEER & BEVERAGE 1304 FEDERAL ST ALLEGHENY GIFT SHOP— AGH HOSPITAL 320 EAST NORTH AVE GIANT EAGLE #652 318 CEDAR AVE 7-11 #158 1001 WESTERN AVE RICHEY’S BARBER SHOP 1207 N. FRANKLIN ST QUIK-IT 820 PENNSYLVANIA AVE RITE AID #3459 802 PENNSYLVANIA AVE MARSHALL SHELL 1500 SPRING GARDEN AVE SWINKO’S MARKET 2535 PERYSVILLE AVE MERCY STREET EXPRESS 6 MERCY ST HARV’S EXXON 2501 BRIGHTON RD QUICK SCHWARTZ 3235 BRIGHTON RD HANINI MARKET 3245 BRIGHTON RD
Voters Guide General Election November 8, 2016
League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania Citizen Education Fund 226 Forster Street, Harrisburg, PA 17102-3220 Phone: (717) 234-1576 E-mail: info@palwv.org Website: www.palwv.org
October 26-November 1, 2016 Publication of the Voter Guide was made possible by the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania-Citizen Education Fund Patriot-News/PENN LIVE Laurel Foundation © 2016 LWVPA-CEF
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FOR ELECTION INFORMATION Contact your county Board of Elections or visit www.VotesPA.com. The League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania Citizen Information Center also provides election information. Call 717-234-1576 with any questions. ABOUT THIS GUIDE The material in this Guide was compiled by the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania-Citizen Education Fund. This material may not be altered or reprinted without the permission of the League. Each candidate’s reply has been printed as submitted. Candidates were invited to participate in the Vote411 online voters’ guide sponsored by the LWVPACEF and PatriotNews/PennLive via email. All reasonable efforts were made to encourage candidates to participate. The candidates listed are those whose names appear on the Allegheny County ballot as of October 15, 2016. They are listed according to their ballot order. Nothing in this guide should be construed as an endorsement or non-endorsement of any candidate, party, or initiative by the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania-Citizen Education Fund. ABSENTEE VOTING Registered voters who are HOW ELECTED: Every four years, political parties nominate candidates to run for President of the United States in a general election that is held on the first Tuesday, after the first Monday in November. Although all parties use conventions to nominate their candidates, in most states the Democratic and Republican parties also run state-wide primary elections or caucuses. The results of the primary influence how the delegates to their respective party’s convention will cast ballots for candidates for President. The degree to which the result of the primary influences the votes of delegates at conven-
VOTERS GUIDE 2016
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
League of Women Voters Non Partisan Voters Guide General Election November 8, 2016 (Polls open from 7 AM to 8 PM) This Voters Guide may be taken into the voting booth. ill, disabled, or will be absent from the municipality on Election Day may vote by absentee ballot. Completed applications for civilian absentee ballots must be received by the county Board of Elections by 5 P.M., November 1, 2016. Completed civilian absentee ballots must be received back at the Board of Elections by 5 P.M. on November 4, 2016. If an emergency arises (unexpected illness or business trip) after the Tuesday application deadline, call your county Board of Elections for information on emergency absentee voting. Proof of emergency may be required. An emergency application and ballot can be obtained and voted by 5 P.M. on November 4, 2016. Any disabled
voter having questions regarding the accessibility of a polling place should consult the county Board of Elections located at 542 Forbes
Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Room 604 (412-3504500). WRITE-IN VOTING Information for write-in voting will be available at the polling place. ELECTION DAY PROBLEMS
If your right to vote is challenged at the polls on Election Day and the problem cannot be resolved at the polling place, the judge of elections at the polling place should telephone the county Board of Elections. The problem could be resolved by phone if your name appears on the county records. If it does not and you want to try to resolve the problem, then you can go in person to the county Board of Elections where a judge from the Court of Common Pleas will be on duty to resolve election problems. Alternatively you can ask for and vote by provisional ballot. If it is later determined that you were eligible to vote your ballot will be counted. You will be given instructions on how to determine if
PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES tions varies from state to state. DUTIES: The President is the head of state of the United States of America and is the Chief Executive Officer and the Commander in Chief of all military forces. The powers of the President are described in the Constitution and federal law. Subject to Senate approval, the President appoints the members of the Cabinet, ambassadors to other nations and the United Nations, Supreme Court Justices and federal judges. The President, along with the Cabinet and its
agencies, is responsible for carrying out and enforcing the laws of the United States. The President may also recommend legislation to the United States Congress. SALARY: $400,000 per year TERM: Four years. Limit of two terms. About this Presidential Voters Guide This Voters Guide is published by the League of Women Voters. The League has a long tradition of publishing the verbatim responses of candidates to questions important to vot-
ers. The League offers this Voters Guide to assist citizens in their decision making process as they prepare for participation in the presidential primary season. The League of Women Voters does not support or oppose any candidate or political party. Ground Rules •All qualified presidential candidates were invited to provide biographical information and responses to five specific questions. Candidates qualified if they met the following criteria: 1. The candidate must
your vote was counted. If you have any questions or need to report any problems, call 1-866687-8683 or the Allegheny County Elections Division at 412-350-4500. IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR NEW VOTERS If you are a new voter or if you are voting at a polling place for the first time then you must bring your voter ID card or a photo ID such as a driver’s license, student ID or some other form of Federal or State government issued ID. Some forms of non-photo ID are also acceptable such as a firearm permit, current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, or government check. If you do not have any acceptable ID then you must be allowed to vote by provisional ballot. If you are not a new voter and are not voting at your polling place for the first time, you are NOT required to bring or provide identification. ON-LINE VOTERS GUIDE The Vote411 Online Voters Guide is available at www.vote411.org. Links to this guide as well as links to Vote411 and other useful information for voters can be found on the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania homepage: www.palwv.org. have made a public announcement of her/his intention to run for her/his Party’s nomination for President; and, 2. The candidate must meet the Presidential Election Campaign Fund Act’s minimum contribution threshold requirements for qualifying for matching funds, based on the most recent data publicly available on the FEC website. •Responses were limited to 400 characters and were truncated thereafter. •If a candidate did not respond by the date of publication, “Candidate has not responded.” is printed. © 2016 League of Women Voters Education Fund
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
VOTERS GUIDE 2016
PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE (VOTE FOR THE CANDIDATE OF ONE PARTY FOR PRESIDENT)
DEMOCRATIC
teachers, modernize our classrooms, and support STEM programs so that all public school students can learn computer science. We must give children the foundation to succeed, from pre-K to grade 12. Q: What actions would you support the U.S. undertake to protect its interests abroad? A: The U.S. needs to exercise leadership and shape global events rather than be shaped by them. So many of our interests—our security, our economy, and our fight against climate change—require cooperation with our friends and allies, and with countries we may agree with on some things, and disagree with on others. As President, I’ll ensure our country remains a source of leadership around the world. Q: What kinds of policies will you pursue to promote social and racial justice for all Americans? A: Too many Americans still face discrimination and mistreatment. I will fight to break down barriers and build ladders of opportunity. We will reform our criminal justice system, protect transgender individuals, defend voting rights, fight environmental injustice, fight for comprehensive immigration reform, end the epidemic of gun violence, and ensure the citizens of Puerto Rico are treated equally.
HILLARY CLINTON
REPUBLICAN HILLARY CLINTON Biographical Info: OCCUPATION: Former U.S. Secretary of State WEBSITE: http://www. hillaryclinton.com FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/hillaryclinton TWITTER: twitter.com/HillaryClinton CAMPAIGN EMAIL: info@hillaryclinton.com CAMPAIGN PHONE: (646) 854-1432 CAMPAIGN ADDRESS: Hillary for America PO Box 5256 New York, NY 10185 PERSONAL STATEMENT: I’m running for President to make a difference in the lives of all Americans. I’ll build an economy that works for everyone, continue my fight for children and families, and work to keep our country safe. And I’ll unite Americans to take on all the challenges we face—because we’re stronger together. TOP THREE GOALS: 1. Grow and strengthen our economy. 2. Curb the outsized influence of big money in American politics. 3. Ensure we have the partnerships to keep our country safe. QUESTIONS: Q: What will you do to support a vibrant economy across the U.S.? A: My first priority will be to grow and strengthen our economy. I will invest in good-paying jobs, expand access to higher education, encourage companies to follow policies that put families first, and fight so that everyone pays their fair share. Every American deserves a good job, a successful career, and a productive life. Together, these efforts will work to make that a reality. Q: What, if any, actions will you support to create a pathway to citizenship? A: In my first 100 days, I will introduce comprehensive immigration reform with a path to citizenship. An estimated nine million lawful permanent residents are eligible to become U.S. citizens. As President, I will work to expand fee waivers and enhance outreach, so that more of the working poor can assume the full rights and responsibilities of becoming U.S. citizens. Q: What should government do to provide an equitable, quality public education for all children pre-K through grade 12? A: Every child deserves a high-quality education. I will double our investments in Early Head Start programs and ensure every 4-year old has access to high-quality preschool. I will do more to support our
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pathway to citizenship? A: We must re-establish the rule of law in this country. Criminal illegal immigrants will be deported. No one should be given the gift of U.S. citizenship based on illegal behavior. Q: What should government do to provide an equitable, quality public education for all children pre-K through grade 12? A: My administration will provide states with incentives to increase school choice options for parents and local school districts. Allowing the entrenched Washington education establishment and federal bureaucrats to leverage federal funds to dictate educational practices, curriculum and outcomes must be stopped. Control of K-12 education must be returned to parents and citizens locally. Q: What actions would you support the U.S. undertake to protect its interests abroad? A: We are the leader of the free world—whether we like it or not—and we must ensure we seek partners willing to make sure our national interests are defended. We only gain this respect from both adversaries and allies by having a strong military, being clear about defeating radical Islam, & stopping rogue nations from attacking/threatening our citizens, economic interests, resources and allies. Q: What kinds of policies will you pursue to promote social and racial justice for all Americans? A: The best way to ensure social & racial justice is to return Constitutional limits on government & appoint Supreme Court Justices who will defend the Constitution, not rewrite it. The President must provide leadership & make sure the government works for the people. We must ensure low income & minority children learn to read at grade level & not trap them in failing schools based on zip code.
CONSTITUTION DARRELL L. CASTLE Candidate did not qualify to be included in the guide. DONALD TRUMP
GREEN
DONALD TRUMP Biographical Info: OCCUPATION: Businessman WEBSITE: http://www.donaldjtrump.com/ CAMPAIGN EMAIL: info@donaldtrump.com CAMPAIGN PHONE: (646) 736-1779 CAMPAIGN ADDRESS: Donald J. Trump for President, INC 725 Fifth Ave New York, NY 10022 PERSONAL STATEMENT: The government of the US should be focused on serving the people of this great nation, not special interests. The government now rules rather than governs. The American people want their government back and together we will make America great again. TOP THREE GOALS: Secure our nation by restoring our leadership in the world; restore economic growth thru tax, trade, immigration, & energy reform; restore Constitutional limits on government. QUESTIONS: Q: What will you do to support a vibrant economy across the U.S.? A: I have proposed tax, trade, energy and immigration reforms that will bring trillions of dollars and millions of jobs back to the United States. Through immigration reform, we will restore wage growth and reduce the related fiscal burdens on state and local governments. These reforms will help lift wages and will create opportunities for millions of Americans to get back in the workforce. Q: What, if any, actions will you support to create a
JILL STEIN JILL STEIN Biographical Info: OCCUPATION: Physician WEBSITE: http://jill2016.com FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/drjillstein TWITTER: twitter.com/DrJillStein CAMPAIGN EMAIL: info@jill2016.com CAMPAIGN PHONE: (347) 425-1910 CAMPAIGN ADDRESS: 318 Franklin Ave Brooklyn, NY 11238 PERSONAL STATEMENT: After a career in clinical medicine, I am now practicing political medicine, running for President to help heal our ailing nation.
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Your vote for me sends a clear signal that you want a new, principled politics that puts people, planet and peace over profit. TOP THREE GOALS: 1. Green job-creation to fight climate change. 2. A fair economy that eliminates unemployment 3. Justice, true democracy, and respect for all human beings. Questions: Q: What will you do to support a vibrant economy across the U.S.? A: • Eliminate unemployment by creating a job for every American who needs work. • Repeal NAFTA and other trade agreements that export our jobs overseas and create immigration surges. • Create 20 million green jobs to stimulate the economy improving our health by cleaning up our land, air, and water. • Protect consumers and small businesses from big banks and Wall Street predators. Q: What, if any, actions will you support to create a pathway to citizenship? A: First, end the massive deportation schemes that have torn families apart. I would also end the socalled Secure Communities program that has led to abuse of both citizens and non-citizens. End the misguided free trade agreements and regime change wars that have forced people to emigrate for their own survival. Finally, provide a welcoming and legal path to citizenship for current immigrants. Q: What should government do to provide an equitable, quality public education for all children pre-K through grade 12? A: 1) Protect our public schools from privatization schemes that will inevitably undermine the American dream of quality public education for all. 2) Increase federal funding of public schools to make sure all school districts have the financial resources they need to provide quality education. 3) Ensure that kids come to school ready to learn: healthy, nourished, and secure. Q: What actions would you support the U.S. undertake to protect its interests abroad? A: Forge a new foreign policy based solidly on diplomacy, international law, respect for human rights, and consistent nonviolent support for democratic movements around the world. End the misguided policies of militarism that have produced terrorist organizations, refugee crises, failed states, and a bloated military that we can no longer afford. Q: What kinds of policies will you pursue to promote social and racial justice for all Americans? A: My plan to end unemployment will transform the economic life of low income communities that are now struggling with unemployment rates two or three times the national average. Coupled with my commitment to quality public schools and community empowerment, we cannot just lessen racial disparity, but bring it to an end.
LIBERTARIAN GARY JOHNSON Biographical Info: OCCUPATION: Former Two-Term Governor of New Mexico WEBSITE: http://www.johnsonweld.com FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/govgaryjohnson/ TWITTER: twitter.com/GovGaryJohnson CAMPAIGN EMAIL: Info@JohnsonWeld.com CAMPAIGN PHONE: (801) 303-8922 CAMPAIGN ADDRESS: PO Box 4422 Salt Lake City, UT 84110 Personal Statement: I am Governor Gary Johnson
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of color. I would use the powers of the Federal Government to protect the civil liberties of all Americans, aggressively enforcing 14th Amendment protections. I would continue the work to help all Americans to achieve equality of opportunity.
PENNSYLVANIA US SENATE
GARY JOHNSON and along with my running mate Governor William Weld we are honored to accept the invitation of the League of Women Voters to participate in their efforts to inform the voting American public of all options available to them during this Presidential election year. Top Three Goals: Provide Congress a balanced budget within the first 100 days of office; Reduce (and in some cases eliminate) our military footprint abroad; Liberalize trade and economic activity. QUESTIONS: Q: What will you do to support a vibrant economy across the U.S.? A: Submit to Congress a balanced budget to provide a template to stop unsustainable growth of the national debt, debt that weighs on employers, entrepreneurs and the economy. Support a simpler, fairer tax code that won’t penalize productivity or investment. Fight to provide certainty in spending, taxes, and regulation so employers, entrepreneurs and investors make decisions that put people to work. Q: What, if any, actions will you support to create a pathway to citizenship? A: Ensure a pathway to citizenship for deserving immigrants by first establishing a way for non-criminal undocumented immigrants to achieve documented status. After that crucial first step, the pathway to citizenship will be the same as it is for all immigrants. No cutting the line. No unfair advantages. Just a legal status that allows immigrants to pursue the traditional path to becoming a citizen. Q: What should government do to provide an equitable, quality public education for all children pre-K through grade 12? A: Education works best when decentralized. Since President Carter created the Dept. of Education, test scores have stagnated despite any new initiatives or spending programs. Parents and teachers make the best decisions for students, not bureaucrats at the DoE. Education is traditionally a state and local responsibility, and should remain so for innovation, best practices and even competition. Q: What actions would you support the U.S. undertake to protect its interests abroad? A: Above all, we must maintain a national defense that is second to none. Government’s first responsibility is to protect us from threats abroad. If attacked, we respond. Our greatest assets are economy and culture. Blue jeans and computers did more to win the Cold War than stockpiled warheads. I will pursue vigorous diplomacy based on our economic might, not idle threats and military interventions. Q: What kinds of policies will you pursue to promote social and racial justice for all Americans? A: I would do everything in the Presidency’s power to end the militarization of the police. I would end the failed drug war, which unfairly targets communities
The U.S. Constitution prescribes that the Senate be composed of two Senators from each State (therefore, the Senate currently has 100 Members) and that a Senator must be at least thirty years of age, have been a citizen of the United States for nine years, and, when elected, be a resident of the State from which he or she is chosen. A Senator’s term of office is six years and approximately one-third of the total membership of the Senate is elected every two years. The Senate has several exclusive powers not granted to the House, including consenting to treaties, a precondition to their ratification consenting or confirming appointments of Cabinet secretaries, other federal executive officials, military officers, regulatory officials, ambassadors, and other federal uniformed officers, as well as trial of federal officials impeached by the House. TERM: 6 years SALARY: $174,000
PENNSYLVANIA US SENATE CANDIDATES (Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC
KATIE McGINTY KATIE MCGINTY Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: PO Box 22446 Philadelphia, PA 19110 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (215) 253-6220 WEBSITE: http://KatieMcGinty.com CAMPAIGN EMAIL: Katie@KatieMcGinty.com DATE OF BIRTH: 5/11/1963 EDUCATION: B.S. from St. Joseph’s University, J.D. from Columbia University QUALIFICATIONS: Former Chair of President Bill Clinton’s Council on Environmental Quality; Former Secretary of Pennsylvania’s Department of Environmental Protection under Governor Ed Rendell; Former Chief of Staff to Governor Tom Wolf. TWITTER: twitter.com/KatieMcGintyPA FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/katiemcgintypa/ MUNICIPALITY: Wayne, Pennsylvania QUESTIONS:
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Q: Partisan gridlock in Washington has brought our government nearly to a standstill. If elected, what steps will you take to reduce partisan gridlock? Please be specific. A: My entire career I have worked with both parties to build partnerships to achieve results. As President Clinton’s chair of the Council on Environmental Quality, I worked with Newt Gingrich’s Republican Congress to make a difference in public health and environmental protection. By building partnerships we strengthened laws keeping our water safe and our air clean, targeted more resources to cleaning up toxic waste sites, and acknowledged the importance of environmental justice in policy making for the first time. I carried that same approach of coalition building to the Department of Environmental Protection under Governor Rendell. Even with a Republican legislature, we were able to direct major new investments to environmental protection and infrastructure improvement, enact tougher standards on toxic emissions, and accelerate the development of clean energy. Track record matters. As Senator, I will use the same approach I’ve always used to get past partisanship and get results. Q: In Shelby County v. Holder, the US Supreme Court invalidated provisions of the Voting Rights Act, which has led to disenfranchised voters across the US. If elected, what will you do to ensure that the voting rights of all Americans are protected? A: Voting is a fundamental right for Americans across this country. We must fully restore the Voting Rights Act to protect that right for thousands of Americans who are being disenfranchised. But we must also do more. As Senator, I will stand against partisan attempts to disenfranchise voters through new voter identification laws because we should be encouraging more people to vote, not systematically denying them that right. I also support reforms that increase accessibility and integrity in our elections like guaranteeing early voting and expanding options for voter registration.
REPUBLICAN
Kris and the father of Bridget, Patrick, and Duncan. He served in the U.S. House, was the president of the Club for Growth, a small business owner in the Lehigh Valley, and worked in the financial services industry. TWITTER: twitter.com/PatToomey MUNICIPALITY: UPPER MILFORD QUESTIONS: Q: Partisan gridlock in Washington has brought our government nearly to a standstill. If elected, what steps will you take to reduce partisan gridlock? Please be specific. A: In the Senate, you can only make progress by working with people in the other party. That’s why I have made bipartisan cooperation a key priority in my first term. I have learned that even in a time noted for partisan gridlock, it is possible to find common ground while sticking to your principles. For example, I helped write the JOBS Act with three Democratic senators, a bill President Obama signed and praised, that is helping small businesses grow and hire more workers. With Sen. Joe Manchin (DWV), I was able to pass legislation that keeps our children safer in schools from dangerous predators. I also worked successfully with Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) to improve efforts to keep illicit painkillers off the streets to deal with the prescription drug abuse crisis. Identifying areas of agreement and working together builds a foundation of trust necessary to tackle the issues where the partisan divide is wider. That is how I have worked as a consensus builder on contentious topics like the deficit, gun safety, and tax reform. Q: In Shelby County v. Holder, the US Supreme Court invalidated provisions of the Voting Rights Act, which has led to disenfranchised voters across the US. If elected, what will you do to ensure that the voting rights of all Americans are protected? A: The right to vote is the sacred foundation upon which American democracy rests. The Voting Rights Act continues to be a crucial component in upholding American citizens’ ability to hold their government accountable. I believe that the federal government should vigilantly enforce the Voting Rights Act and other legislation designed to ensure equal access to the ballot box. Furthermore, it is incumbent upon legislators to consider the impact of all new legislation on our voting rights and other constitutional freedoms, and this is a responsibility that I take very seriously. As a senator, it is also my job to ensure we nominate judges and executive officials who will protect these vital rights. In my first term, I have worked across the aisle with Democratic Sen. Bob Casey to successfully confirm 16 qualified individuals to federal courthouses in Pennsylvania, the most of any state with the exceptions of New York and California.
LIBERTARIAN EDWARD T. CLIFFORD III Candidate did not respond. PAT TOOMEY PAT TOOMEY Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: 1180 Welsh Road Suite 100 North Wales, PA 19454 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (484) 809-7994 WEBSITE: http://www.toomeyforsenate.com CAMPAIGN EMAIL: info@toomeyforsenate.com DATE OF BIRTH: November 17, 1961 EDUCATION: Harvard University QUALIFICATIONS: Pat Toomey is the husband of
PENNSYLVANIA ATTORNEY GENERAL The basic duties of the attorney general, as outlined by the Commonwealth Attorneys Act are to: serve as the Commonwealth’s chief law enforcement officer; collect all debts, taxes, and account due to the Commonwealth; represent the Commonwealth and all agencies in any action brought by or against the Commonwealth; administer the provisions relating to consumer protection laws; represent the Common-
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wealth and its citizens in any action brought about for violation of the antitrust laws. TERM: 4 Years SALARY: $158,764
PENNSYLVANIA ATTORNEY GENERAL CANDIDATES-DEMOCRATIC (Vote for One)
JOSH SHAPIRO JOSH SHAPIRO Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: 21 E. Airy Street Norristown, PA 19401 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (215) 886-7376 WEBSITE: http://www.joshshapiro.org CAMPAIGN EMAIL: info@joshshapiro.org DATE OF BIRTH: 6/20/73 EDUCATION: B.A. - University of Rochester J.D. Georgetown Law Center QUALIFICATIONS: Chairman, Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, 2015-present Of Counsel with Stradley Ronon law firm, 10 years State Representative, 2005-2012 TWITTER: twitter.com/JoshShapiroPA FACEBOOK: http://facebook.com/JoshShapiroPA MUNICIPALITY: ABINGTON TOWNSHIP QUESTIONS: Q: The Attorney General’s office has been under a cloud for the last few years. Why do you believe you can restore public confidence in the office, and what steps will you take to make that happen? A: Throughout my career, I’ve been a reformer. In Harrisburg, they didn’t like it when I stopped their perks and pushed for reform. In Montgomery County, I cleaned up an ethical mess. I’ll bring this same commitment to integrity and reform to the Office of Attorney General. In my Integrity Agenda, I’ve laid out the steps I will take to restore integrity to the Office of Attorney General. On Day One, I will create a code of conduct and mandate ethics training. I will ban gifts. I will post all expenses online for every Pennsylvanian to see. Additionally, I will professionalize the office’s human resources and establish a new Chief Diversity Officer to ensure that the Office of Attorney General looks like the public it is sworn to represent. And I will create the “Casey Commission,” named for the late Gov. Robert P. Casey, to issue regular reports on integrity and transparency in our Commonwealth and recommendations for how to improve our laws. For more details on my plan visit www.joshshapiro.org/integrity. Q: It is increasingly apparent that Pennsylvania’s criminal justice system is deeply flawed. What do you see as the primary systemic problems within our criminal justice system and, if elected, what steps would you take to address them?
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A: We need to treat addiction as a disease instead of a crime and ensure prison is used for those who are violent and pose a risk to others and not the mentally ill or those suffering from drug addiction. Far too many young people—particularly young people of color—get caught up in the system when they should not be there in the first place. This hurts individuals, communities and taxpayers. We need to put in place alternatives to incarceration for non-violent offenders, drug courts, smart probation and more resources for drug and alcohol treatment and mental health services. In Montgomery County, we have been nationally recognized for reducing our recidivism rate by 30 percent through a comprehensive treatment program in our prison. As Attorney General, I’ll reform our criminal justice system so that everyone is treated fairly, we lower the recidivism rate, reduce the number of victims of crime, lower the burden on taxpayers and make our communities safer.
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years as Attorney General. The Office of Attorney General and the citizens of this great Commonwealth deserve nothing less from the next Attorney General. In making such a pledge I am making a full faith commitment to Pennsylvanian’s that I will remove all political agenda’s from my office. As the highest ranking law enforcement official of our state it is my job to be a faithful custodian of the law by enforcing and prosecuting those that break the laws. Additionally, I will implement a strict ethics code for employees based on guidelines set forth by the United State Department of Justice. I will have the strictest guidelines in the country to ensure the public has full confidence in our office moving forward. Q: It is increasingly apparent that Pennsylvania’s criminal justice system is deeply flawed. What do you see as the primary systemic problems within our criminal justice system and, if elected, what steps would you take to address them? A: I am very supportive of the Justice Reinvestment Act which reduces recidivism, increases public safety and lowers correction costs by investing in communities to defer criminal behavior. Additionally, I am very supportive of the creation of specialty courts, like the Veterans Courts. In fact, I was a member of the Supreme Court’s steering committee for Veterans Courts.
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DATE OF BIRTH: 8/3/1971 EDUCATION: Widener University, School of Law, J.D University of Pittsburgh, MPA College of Wooster, BA QUALIFICATIONS: Auditor General: 2013-present State Representative: 2007-2013 Deputy Secretary, DEP: 2003-2006 TWITTER: twitter.com/DePasqualePA FACEBOOK: http://DePasqualePA MUNICIPALITY: WEST MANCHESTER TOWNSHIP QUESTION: Q: What are your top three priorities and how will you accomplish them? Please be specific. A: I will continue to ensure schools are held accountable to taxpayers and students through our school district audits. I plan to make sure the taxpayers dollars spent on state programs are spent effectively and efficiently while working to improve those departments. I also plan to help resolve the political budget impasse through drawing attention to lost taxpayer resources and helping the sides come together.
REPUBLICAN
PENNSYLVANIA AUDITOR GENERAL
JOHN RAFFERTY JOHN RAFFERTY Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. BOX 11757 HARRISBURG, PA 17108 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (570) 690-1933 WEBSITE: http://www.raffertyforag.com CAMPAIGN EMAIL: info@raffertyforag.com DATE OF BIRTH: 2/7/1953 EDUCATION: Bachelor’s: University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown Master’s: Beaver College Law Degree: Temple QUALIFICATIONS: Serving as a State Senator, a Deputy Attorney General, a private practice attorney and a small business owner has given me a wide breadth of experience that few others have. I believe my experience makes me uniquely qualified. TWITTER: twitter.com/RaffertyforAG FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/RaffertyforAG/ MUNICIPALITY: LOWER PROVIDENCE TOWNSHIP QUESTIONS: Q: The Attorney General’s office has been under a cloud for the last few years. Why do you believe you can restore public confidence in the office, and what steps will you take to make that happen? A: My first step to regaining the public trust is announcing on day one of my campaign that I pledge to run for Attorney General to be the Attorney General…Not to be an aspiring Governor or United States Senator. If elected, I am committed to serving my full-term of four years and if re-elected eight
The principal role of the auditor general is to determine whether state funds are being used in accordance with the purpose and guidelines that govern each use of the Commonwealth’s dollars. The auditor general conducts financial and performance audits of individuals, state agencies, and organization that receive state funds, including school districts, state liquor stores, and public employee pensions. These audits are designed to measure how effectively government programs are using public money to meet their stated goals and objectives. The office performs more than 6,000 audits each year, and is responsible for auditing all federal funds that are allocated to Pennsylvania state programs. TERM: 4 years SALARY: $158,764
DEMOCRATIC
EUGENE A. DePASQUALE EUGENE A. DEPASQUALE Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: PO BOX 391 HARRISBURG, PA 17108 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (717) 256-2591 WEBSITE: http://www.eugene4pa.com Campaign Email: eugene@eugene4pa.com
JOHN BROWN JOHN BROWN Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: 403 S Main Street Nazareth, PA 18064 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (717) 585-0480 WEBSITE: http://www.johnbrownforpa.com CAMPAIGN EMAIL: info@johnbrownforpa.com DATE OF BIRTH: 11/8/1959 EDUCATION: University of Notre Dame Bangor High School QUALIFICATIONS: Northampton County Executive Mayor of the City of Bangor Worked in the private sector helping to turn around unprofitable businesses helping to make them more effective, efficient and successful. TWITTER: twitter.com/JohnBrownforPA MUNICIPALITY: BANGOR BORO QUESTION: Q: What are your top three priorities and how will you accomplish them? Please be specific. A: Candidate did not respond to question.
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GREEN
JOHN J. SWEENEY JOHN J. SWEENEY Biographical Info: CAMPAIGN PHONE: (570) 587-3603 CAMPAIGN EMAIL: jnln@epix.net DATE OF BIRTH: 8/5/53 EDUCATION: Temple University 1971-1974 Philadelphia College of Art 1975 no degree QUALIFICATIONS: Only qualifications are age and residency, which I meet. I currently am in my second term as Falls Township Auditor. MUNICIPALITY: FALLS TOWNSHIP, WYOMING COUNTY QUESTION: Q: What are your top three priorities and how will you accomplish them? Please be specific. A: The Auditor General is the state’s top watchdog when it comes to spending. I would audit the General Assembly operating budget. Return surpluses to the General fund. I would also perform an audit on the pension fund of our elected officials in the General Assembly. The Auditor General also has the responsibility to see that our agencies function properly. I would conduct a performance audit of the Department of Environmental Protection to see if they are fulfilling their mission.
LIBERTARIAN
Inst. for Mgt. Qualifications: Designed and developed comprehensive, integrated business software, including all accounting functions. Consultant for multiple businesses regarding overall operations and accounting. MUNICIPALITY: EAST DONEGAL TOWNSHIP QUESTION: Q: What are your top three priorities and how will you accomplish them? Please be specific. A: The two old, declining parties have ruled tagteam style for decades. They have conspired to erect barriers to keep their competition out of office. As a Libertarian, I am not part of this “establishment” and can be a truly independent watchdog. I favor smaller government, lower taxes and more liberty. Thus, all operations will be carefully scrutinized through an entirely new, different and better set of eyes. Governments do not and cannot create productive jobs. Government is purely overhead. Government is needed to the extent that it secures rights, preserves order and provides truly public goods and services. These conditions allow the free market to flourish and create jobs. But governments have exploded way beyond these functions and now confiscate an incredible 31% of all income! The economy struggles to grow at a 1% or 2% rate when growth should be more like 10%. I will diligently seek ways that our state government can perform its proper role, but suck less blood out of the economy and allow it to create more jobs.
PENNSYLVANIA TREASURER The duty of the Pennsylvania Treasurer is to safeguard the Commonwealth’s financial assets, which total more than $120 billion in public monies. The office manages several programs in order to better serve the financial needs of Pennsylvanians. The Treasury Department is also responsible for: reuniting unclaimed property with its rightful owner; investigating loss, theft, and fraud involving commonwealth checks; reviewing real estate leases and contracts entered into by commonwealth agencies; maintaining the Pennsylvania contracts electronic library. The Treasurer has specific duties in addition to the oversight of the department: serves as Chair of the Board of Finance and Revenue, which selects banks to serve as depositories for state money; sets interest rates paid on commonwealth deposits; hears and decides state tax appeals. TERM: 4 Years SALARY: $158,764
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MAILING ADDRESS: PO Box 626 Flourtown, PA 19031 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (267) 219-5629 WEBSITE: http://joetorsella.com CAMPAIGN EMAIL: info@joetorsella.com DATE OF BIRTH: Berwick, PA Education: Graduated with honors from the University of Pennsylvania. Studied at Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar. QUALIFICATIONS: U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. for Management & Reform Chairman of the Pennsylvania State Board of Education. Founding President & CEO of the National Constitution Center TWITTER: twitter.com/joetorsella FACEBOOK: http://JoeTorsellaForTreasurer/ MUNICIPALITY: WHITEMARSH QUESTIONS: Q: What are your top three priorities and how will you accomplish them? Please be specific. A: I’ve spent my life in public service making public institutions more efficient, more accountable, and more innovative. First, I’ll set the toughest ethics standards in the country at Treasury — by making it easy for citizens to go online and see every dollar in state spending and contracts, including political contributions made by the vendors who got those contracts, by requiring people trading public money in the stock market to disclose the trades they make on their own accounts, and by appointing a Chief Integrity Officer. Second, I’ll serve as the independent fiscal watchdog Pennsylvanians deserve in this position. Third, I will work to create more economic opportunity for all Pennsylvanians, by setting up automatic, universal savings accounts for secondary or vocational training for every child born in Pennsylvania.
REPUBLICAN
DEMOCRATIC OTTO VOIT
ROY A. MINET ROY A. MINET Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: 623 Skyler Drive Mount Joy, PA 17552 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (717) 928-6188 CAMPAIGN EMAIL: roy.minet@comcast.net DATE OF BIRTH: 07/18/41 EDUCATION: Penn Manor H.S. Princeton U. Physics (2Y) Northwestern U. Grad. Sch. of Mgt.,
JOE TORSELLA JOE TORSELLA Biographical Info:
OTTO VOIT Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: PO Box 303 Harrisburg, pa 17108 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (484) 938-8648 WEBSITE: http://Ottovoit.com CAMPAIGN EMAIL: otto@voitforpatreasurer.com EDUCATION: Pennsylvania State University, BA Saint Joseph’s University, EMBA QUALIFICATIONS: Otto W. Voit, III is a life-long Pennsylvanian who has answered the call to service time and again and is doing so once more. Otto has the integrity and the business acumen needed to hold Harrisburg accountable. MUNICIPALITY: MUHLENBERG TOWNSHIP QUESTIONS: Q: What are your top three priorities and how will
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you accomplish them? Please be specific. A: When elected, Mr. Voit’s top three priorities will be to hold Harrisburg accountable, restore integrity, and save the commonwealth 1 Billion dollars. To make Harrisburg more accountable, Mr. Voit has proposed PACheckbook.com. PaCheckbook.com will be the first of its kind, user friendly website that will show all revenue, every expenditure, the salary and every state contract at all levels of government. This information will be presented in clear everyday language, not in professional jargon. This will empower voters and help them understand what is actually going on in Harrisburg. As an Army Officer and Desert Storm Veteran, Integrity plays a huge role in all aspects of his life. That is why Mr. Voit has pledged not to seek higher office. To truly reform the office, their must be a restored focus on serving the people, not serving political ambitions. Finally, Mr. Voit plans on saving the commonwealth one billion dollars in his first term. Mr. Voit will have a diverse investment committee that will help him find safer and investments.
GREEN KRISTIN COMBS Candidate did not respond.
LIBERTARIAN
JAMES BABB JAMES BABB Biographical Info: Mailing Address: PO BOX 2106 SOUTHEASTERN, PA 19399 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (610) 574-1222 WEBSITE: http://jamesbabb@mac.com CAMPAIGN EMAIL: jamesbabb@mac.com DATE OF BIRTH: 12/4/2067 EDUCATION: College: James Madison University QUALIFICATIONS: Taxation is theft. TWITTER: twitter.com/jamescbabb FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/JamesCBabb QUESTIONS: Q: What are your top three priorities and how will you accomplish them? Please be specific. A: The job of the Pennsylvania Treasurer is to safeguard and manage the treasure. I’m running for office to tell people that the treasure is nothing but pirate’s treasure, looted from Pennsylvanians. Taxation is theft. When you take someone else’s property without their consent, that’s theft. It doesn’t matter what costume or special badges the thief wears. Even if it’s for a cause you like, most of us can agree that taking other people’s stuff by force is wrong. My singular priority as treasurer would be to return the treasure to it’s rightful owners. The treasurer is authorized to issue “cash refunds of taxes, licenses, fees and other
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charges paid or collected, but not legally due…” The treasury should not be a vehicle for theft, extortion or other forms of coercion. According to their own rules, no legislator, judge, or bureaucrat has a legal power to alter the declaration of rights. That means only voluntary contributions can legally be made to the Pennsylvania treasury. All funds collected illegally must be refunded.
U.S. REPRESENTATIVE The U.S. Constitution requires that the House of Representatives be composed of elected Representatives (also called Congressmen or Congresswomen) from each State. There are 435 members of the House of Representatives. The number of Representatives from each state is proportioned according to its population, with 18 Representatives from Pennsylvania. A US Representative must (1) be at least twenty-five years old, (2) have been a citizen of the United States for the past seven years, and (3) be (at the time of the election) an inhabitant of the state they represent. A Representative’s term of office is 2 years. The House of Representatives is responsible for creating the budget and initiating bills to collect taxes and other money, although all bills must pass the Senate and be signed by the President. The House is also responsible for impeaching federal officials (the Senate then tries the case) and electing the President if there is a tie in the Electoral College. TERM: 2 years SALARY: $174,000 QUESTIONS: Q1: Partisan gridlock in Washington has brought our government nearly to a standstill. If elected, what steps will you take to reduce partisan gridlock? Please be specific. Q2: In Shelby County v. Holder, the US Supreme Court invalidated provisions of the Voting Rights Act, which has led to disenfranchised voters across the US. If elected, what will you do to ensure that the voting rights of all Americans are protected?
12TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT (Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
WEBSITE: http://erinforpa.com CAMPAIGN EMAIL: erinforcongress@gmail.com DATE OF BIRTH: 4/18/1975 EDUCATION: BS Psychology, University of Pittsburgh MS Psychology, Chatham University TWITTER: twitter.com/erinforpa FACEBOOK: http://facebook.com/erinforpa MUNICIPALITY: HARRISON TWP A1: First, this question requires that we understand the root cause of gridlock in Washington. Why do legislators choose to accomplish nothing over compromising in a way that at least solves something? For each legislator, the answer is very different. In the case of my opponent, he repeatedly chooses the defund it, repeal it and shut it down politics over problem solving because that is what he ran on. He said he would repeal the ACA, and despite this being a wasteful act of futility, he continues to do so, solving no problem and creating no solution. I am not inclined to opine disingenuously that I alone will be the one of 435 members to “end the gridlock in Washington.” That assertion is ridiculous and insulting to the good hearted members that work every day to do that very thing. I can tell you, I will focus on the problems inside my District that I CAN solve. I can work on our serious drug problem, decrease medical errors in our healthcare system and support working families. And I will vote to solve our greatest problems. A2: Protecting the rights of voters would be a more pertinent issue in our society if everyone actually cherished and demonstrated their right to vote. While legislation and Supreme Court cases infringe on this right as an attempt to suppress voters and influence election outcomes, the greater problem is the lack of participation from the electorate itself. And if a significant majority of voters in this country truly valued their vote and continued to fight for it, this battle could be won at the polls, not in the courts or Congress. Therefore, I intend to continuously remind my electorate of the impact that their vote has in every election, at the local level and in their own homes. I hope to inspire them to value the right for which so many have fought and died. And I intend to elaborate regularly on the outcomes of apathy that continue to break our middle class and hurt our efforts toward prosperity including the disenfranchisement of the American citizen from the process that governs his and her society.
REPUBLICAN KEITH ROTHFUS Candidate did not respond.
14TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT (Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC
ERIN MCCLELLAND ERIN MCCLELLAND Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: PO BOX 2824 LOWER BURRELL, PA 15068 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (724) 575-2624
MIKE DOYLE Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 17426 Pittsburgh, PA 15235 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (412) 244-9101 WEBSITE: http://mikedoyleforcongress.com CAMPAIGN EMAIL: mike@mikedoyleforcongress.com DATE OF BIRTH: 8/5/1953 EDUCATION: Penn State University, BS 1975; Graduate, Leadership Pittsburgh QUALIFICATIONS: Lifelong Pittsburgh area resident; completing 11th term as Congressman; have served on the powerful Energy and Commerce Com-
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DEMOCRATIC No Candidate Filed
REPUBLICAN TIM MURPHY Candidate did not respond.
STATE SENATOR
MIKE DOYLE mittee since 2001; co-owner of small insurance agency; married over 25 years; 4 children. FACEBOOK:http://www.facebook.com/MikeDoyle-For-Congress-158431724174341/ MUNICIPALITY: FOREST HILLS A1: The problem of partisan gridlock is very frustrating to me. Unfortunately I believe that until the Republican leadership in the House changes their approach, there is little that can be done. The majority of members of Congress actually work well together and aren’t shy about reaching across the aisle to work on issues in a bipartisan fashion. I certainly have done so and will again. However, there is a group of about forty members that represent the Tea Party wing of the Republican party and their leadership continues to try to appease them. There are a large number of vital pieces of legislation addressing issues like transportation funding, immigration, and even the federal budget that could pass in Congress easily with large numbers of Democrats and Republicans supporting them if the Republican leadership would simply allow them to be voted on. But because this band of radical conservatives opposes these bills, their leadership evades these issues and allows partisan gridlock to continue to the detriment of our country. A2: I firmly oppose any action that would disenfranchise US citizens from being able to vote and was therefore disappointed by the Shelby v Holder decision. In response I have joined with other members of Congress on a number of actions to attempt to reverse the damage of that decision. Most importantly, I am an original co-sponsor of HR 885, the Voting Rights Amendment Act. This is legislation aimed at directly countering the Supreme Court having struck down part of the Voting Rights Act that deals with states that have a history of voting discrimination. HR 885 would restore federal authority over voting laws in those states to ensure they are not discriminatory in nature. I am also a co-sponsor of HR 12, the Voter Empowerment Act. This bill would modernize our voter registration system; allow online voter registration; expand early voting; ensure equitable allocation of polling place resources; and prohibit deceptive practices that deter people from exercising their right to vote.
The Pennsylvania Senate is the upper house of our bicameral (two house legislature). There are 50 members who sit for four year terms. Senators must be at least 25 years old, have been citizens and lived in their respective districts one year before their election and must live in their districts during their terms of service. Members of the Pennsylvania Senate are, along with the House of Representatives, responsible for passing legislation that affects all aspects of our lives. TERM: 4 years SALARY: $85,339 QUESTIONS: Q1: Ensuring that all voters have access to the ballot box is one of the essential functions of government, yet Pennsylvania voters have some of the most restricted access to the ballot in the nation. Pennsylvania is one of only 9 states without any of the following reforms: early voting, optional vote by mail, pre-registration for 16 and 17 year olds, or same day registration. If elected, will you support increasing access to the ballot through these reforms? Please explain your answer. Q2: Partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has brought our government nearly to a standstill. If elected, what steps will you take to reduce partisan gridlock? Please be specific. Q3: Pennsylvania is home to some of the most gerrymandered districts in the US. Unfairly drawn districts disenfranchise voters and make it more difficult for legislators to effectively represent all of their constituents. Would you support redistricting reform through removing elected officials from the process and instituting an independent citizens’ commission to draw the maps, changing where prisoners are counted, and/or implementing stricter methods of statistical verification? Please explain your answer.
37TH SENATORIAL DISTRICT (Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC
REPUBLICAN
43RD SENATORIAL DISTRICT
LENNY McCALLISTER Candidate did not respond.
(Vote for One)
18TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT ED EICHENLAUB
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ED EICHENLAUB Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: 5500 Kings School Road Bethel Park, PA 15102 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (412) 854-4211 WEBSITE: http://Eich4Senate.com CAMPAIGN EMAIL: eich4senate@gmail.com DATE OF BIRTH: 1/16/1956 EDUCATION: Bachelor of Science, Biology, Chemistry and Physics (Pre-Med) QUALIFICATIONS: Former EMT, Medical Specialist, Midwife Trained, FEMA ICS 100/700 Emergency Preparedness and Response Program of Allegheny County, First Aid and CPR Trained. +33 Years in Hospital Administration and patient support and educational services. TWITTER: twitter.com/Eich4Senate FACEBOOK: http://edeich@gmail.com MUNICIPALITY: BETHEL PARK A1: Yes, voting is a fundamental right of every American and our future generations need each and every opportunity available, and a clear and accessible process for our children to grasp the routine and the importance of voting and the key elements that constitute an honest, and trustworthy politician. A2: As I learned and practiced as a Scout Master, you lead by example. It is critical that we work together for the benefit of our constituents not our party’s goals or our own vested interests. By holding the fundamental values of family and community in the highest regards, and to have core values of honesty and integrity, the elected representative are empowered to seek and agree to measures that provide the fundamental solutions to issues like equitable budgets and safe, reasonable laws that enforce these techniques for all citizens. A3: Most definitely. 1) Our districts should not be manipulated to provide for a more favorable outcome by linking together geographical locales according to one’s voting history. I was raised in a mixed community with both poor and wealth, and found common virtue in the socio-economics of an open and welcoming community. 2) My home territory is high in “baby-boomers” and also experiencing an influx of “Generation Y- Millenials” who are seeking a stable/safe community with exceptional educational opportunities for their children and in my case, I’m focusing on keeping District 37 affordable so my sons can remain in the district and raise my grandchildren close to home. After all, “there is no place like home!” I would support an independent citizens’ commission. As a County Jail Counselor, I interact with a variety of inmates who through the criminal justice system are seeking support to deal with issues that have yielded them in jail. I understand and work to aid their plight.
GUY RESCHENTHALER Candidate did not respond
REPUBLICAN
(Vote for One)
OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016
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OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016
DEMOCRATIC
VOTERS GUIDE 2016
REPUBLICAN No Candidate Filed
45TH SENATORIAL DISTRICT (Vote for One)
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
ing the redistricting over to the University’s of Pennsylvania. I have discussed having representatives from business, academia, unions and other groups. I have suggested an independent citizen’s commission as you outlined above. As with everything we do, the people of Pennsylvania, and what is best for them, is what should drive our actions in the legislature. As a footnote, please recall that before the Supreme Court threw out the original 2012 reapportionment plan, my district was being moved to the New York border. Because of that experience I have a rather vested interest in the process going forward.
REPUBLICAN No Candidate Filed JAY COSTA, JR. JAY COSTA, JR. Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: 314 Newport Road Forest Hills, PA 15221 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (412) 871-3924 CAMPAIGN EMAIL: jaycosta4statesenate@comcast.net DATE OF BIRTH: November 17, 1957 EDUCATION: CCAC (A.S. 1977), Indiana University of PA (B.A. 1979), J.D. from Duquesne University (1989) MUNICIPALITY: FOREST HILLS BOROUGH A1: I am committed to any reform that encourages more people to register to vote and any reform that helps boost voter turnout. I applauded Governor Tom Wolf’s rollout of VotesPA.com. Thanks to online registration, Pennsylvania now has more than 225,000 new voters. I believe another way to inspire more voter turnout is by reducing the corrupting influence of money in elections. I’ve introduced legislation that would limit campaign contributions, reduce the influence of special interest groups, and boost transparency. A2: In my role as Senate Democratic Leader, I’m often at the negotiating table with my Republican counterparts. I’m very attuned to working together to get things done. Late last year, I helped broker a budget deal with Republican leaders in the senate. The governor supported it, but unfortunately we couldn’t quite get the House on the same page. Part of the budget framework included bipartisan measures, like major pension reforms and modest wine and spirit modernization, both of which I support. Another example of cooperation, I’m a founding chairman of the bi-partisan/bi-cameral Arts and Culture Caucus of the General Assembly whose focus is supporting and advancing the arts and cultural opportunities in Pennsylvania. A3: Gerrymandering and partisan gridlock go hand in hand. It’s cause and effect. It’s harder for lawmakers to work together when they hail from districts that are manipulatively drawn to heavily favor one party over another. That goes for whether we’re talking about the Congressional districts, which are created by lawmakers in Harrisburg or the state legislative districts, which are created by the Legislative Reapportionment Commission. As the lead plaintiff in the Holt case, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court issued strict new parameters that ensure redistricting for the General Assembly isn’t harmful. We need to make sure that in the 2020s we don’t create a Commonwealth rife with unreasonably drawn legislative districts like we have now. I believe the Holt ruling provides us with the directive to create districts that are fair and could be used as a blueprint for how we draw the Congressional districts.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE
JAMES R. BREWSTER JAMES R. BREWSTER Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: 455 29th Street McKeesport, PA 15132 CAMPAIGN EMAIL: Brewster4senate@gmail.com DATE OF BIRTH: 9/25/1948 EDUCATION: California University QUALIFICATIONS: Elected McKeesport City Councilman in 1995, and served as council president for seven years prior to being elected mayor in 2004 until elected to State Senate in 2010. Prior to election, Vice President and Fraud Investigator, Mellon Bank. TWITTER: twitter.com/SenatorBrewster FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/senatorbrewster MUNICIPALITY: CITY OF MCKEESPORT A1: I will support increasing access to the ballot. All of the methods outlined above will help increase participation in the process. But we need to do more. We need to make sure our citizens realize what a privilege it is to have the right to vote. Education must be ramped up. When I see folks on television news in faraway lands holding up their ink stained thumb or finger proving that they took advantage, maybe for the first time in their lives to vote, I am moved. I’m told I’m overreaching when I have stated that voting should be mandatory but I’m passionate about the subject. A2: I have already started. As soon as I arrived in on the floor of the Senate I looked for the fence separating the Republicans from the Democrats. I could not find it. Often we hear about reaching across the aisle. As far as I’m concerned there is no aisle. I walked across the floor and introduced myself to everyone serving the residents of Pennsylvania. Any legislation passed by the Senate should benefit every person in the state. Some of my closest colleagues are those I most disagree with on many ideological issues. But I am always open to new ideas and working together to move the state forward. When we are on the Floor of the Senate we should not consider our party affiliation but rather what is best for Pennsylvania. A3: The current reapportionment process is in drastic need of overhaul. I have supported every piece of legislation introduced to reform and improve the system. No elected official should have any role in reapportionment. I have discussed turn-
The Pennsylvania House of Representatives is the lower house of our bicameral (two house) legislature. There are 203 members who sit for two year terms in single member districts. Representatives must be 21 years old, have been citizens and lived in their respective districts one year next before their election and must live in their districts during their terms of service.. Members of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives are, along with the Senate, responsible for passing legislation that affects all aspects of our lives. TERM: 2 years SALARY: $85,339 QUESTIONS: Q1: Ensuring that all voters have access to the ballot box is one of the essential functions of government, yet Pennsylvania voters have some of the most restricted access to the ballot in the nation. Pennsylvania is one of only 9 states without any of the following reforms: early voting, optional vote by mail, pre-registration for 16 and 17 year olds, or same day registration. If elected, will you support increasing access to the ballot through these reforms? Please explain your answer. Q2: Partisan gridlock in Harrisburg has brought our government nearly to a standstill. If elected, what steps will you take to reduce partisan gridlock? Please be specific. Q3: Pennsylvania is home to some of the most gerrymandered districts in the US. Unfairly drawn districts disenfranchise voters and make it more difficult for legislators to effectively represent all of their constituents. Would you support redistricting reform through removing elected officials from the process and instituting an independent citizens’ commission to draw the maps, changing where prisoners are counted, and/or implementing stricter methods of statistical verification? Please explain your answer.
16TH DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES DEMOCRATIC ROBERT F. MATZIE Candidate did not respond
REPUBLICAN No Candidate Filed
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
VOTERS GUIDE 2016
19TH DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
REPUBLICAN
(Vote for One)
23RD DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
DEMOCRATIC JAKE WHEATLEY Candidate did not respond
REPUBLICAN
No Candidate Filed
(Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC DAN B FRANKEL Candidate did not respond
OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016
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25TH DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC JOSEPH F. MARKOSEK Candidate did not respond
REPUBLICAN
No Candidate Filed
REPUBLICAN 20TH DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
No Candidate Filed
(Vote for One)
24TH DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
DEMOCRATIC
(Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC JOHN RITTER
ADAM J. RAVENSTAHL ED GAINEY ADAM J. RAVENSTAHL Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: 4455 Highridge Street Pittsburgh, PA 15214 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (412) 407-7389 WEBSITE: http://adamravenstahl.com CAMPAIGN EMAIL: voteadamravenstahl@gmail.com DATE OF BIRTH: 11/09/1984 EDUCATION: Bachelors (Business), Robert Morris University, 2007 North Catholic High School, 2003 TWITTER: twitter.com/adamravenstahl FACEBOOK: http://facebook.com/adamravenstahl MUNICIPALITY: Pittsburgh, Ross QUESTIONS: Candidate did not respond to questions.
CONSTITUTION JIM BARR Candidate did not respond
21ST DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC DOM COSTA Candidate did not respond
ED GAINEY Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: PO Box 5208 Pittsburgh, PA 15206 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (412) 945-0024 WEBSITE: http://www.edgainey.com CAMPAIGN EMAIL: info@edgainey.com DATE OF BIRTH: 2/19/1970 EDUCATION: Morgan State University TWITTER: twitter.com/edgainey Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/edgainey MUNICIPALITY: PITTSBURGH A1: Absolutely. I have a Bill that I’m introducing in the house that will call for automatic registration for 17 year old 30 days prior to their 18th birthday. A2: This is very difficult to do due to some members only willing to deal in absolutes. I will try to work with members of the opposition party who we can find middle ground and hopefully get them to talk to their colleagues about the importance of getting things done. A3: I can definitely support a measure that calls for a non partisan citizens’ commission, but the there has to be strict and fair guidelines to how persons are selected. I’d go a little farther and stipulate that the members should have some qualifications in the area of cartography or map designing.
REPUBLICAN No Candidate Filed
JOHN RITTER Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: 206 Shackelford Drive Monroeville, PA 15146 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (412) 403-4749 Website: http://www.RitterForRep.com CAMPAIGN EMAIL: ContactJohnRitter@verizon.net EDUCATION: B.S. Health Education, Slippery Rock U. B.A. Computer Science, IUP M.S. Comp Sci; Virginia Tech MUNICIPALITY: MONROEVILLE A1: New forms of technology might help promote voter-participation in the election process and in the candidate information-distribution process. Fraudulent techniques should continually be examined, anticipated, and mitigated. A2: Negotiation, compromise, and consensus are techniques that mature, honest, good-hearted representatives ought to employ when creating or identifying policies and measures that best serve the citizens whom they serve. (Righteous) anger, shrewdness, discipline, gentleness, strength-of-character, humility, and patience are effective means of producing good fruit and pruning diseased branches (so-tospeak). For those issues where the wrong question is being argued and where both sides are wrong, I am in favor of gridlock. A3: All roadblocks to effective and fair representation ought to be examined: Gerrymandering (politicians ought not be involved, citizens should drive the process); term limits (of some form that can be negotiated and accepted via consensus); perks (such as excessive benefits or excessive per diems); transparency in campaign finance contributions and reporting; et cetera.
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27TH DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC DAN DEASY Candidate did not respond
REPUBLICAN No Candidates Filed
28TH DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC JOHN CRAIG HAMMOND Candidate did not respond
REPUBLICAN MIKE TURZAI Candidate did not respond
30TH DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC HAL ENGLISH Candidate did not respond
REPUBLICAN HAL ENGLISH Candidate did not respond
32ND DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (Vote for One)
VOTERS GUIDE 2016
EDUCATION: Westinghouse High School. Allegheny County Community College, Real Estate and Political Science QUALIFICATIONS: Current State Representative in the 32nd Legislative District. MUNICIPALITY: PENN HILLS A1: I am an advocate for expanding ballot access. I support all the efforts outlined in the question. I have previously sponsored and supported legislation that would expand ballot access by allowing in person early voting and excuse free absentee ballot voting. This legislation has been held up by the Majority Chairman in the House. I believe in moving Pennsylvania into the 21st Century and joining the vast majority of states in ensuring that every voter who wishes to cast a ballot has every opportunity available to do so. Restricting voting access to one Tuesday simply does not work anymore. A2: I have co-sponsored legislation that would reduce the size of both chambers of the Legislature. I believe a reduction in the size of the Legislature would go a long way towards breaking the partisan gridlock that has gripped Harrisburg in recent years. In addition, elected officials need to stop thinking of legislation in terms of Democratic or Republican bills, but rather think in terms of what best serves all citizens of Pennsylvania. I believe that our elected Representatives and Senators need to remember that they are elected as servants of the citizens of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, not of special interest groups. A3: Yes, I agree with creating an independent citizen’s commission to draw district maps. Having an independent commission will free the process of political interference. This political inference and the gerrymandering of districts are driving factors in the partisan gridlock that has come to Harrisburg in recent years.
REPUBLICAN
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
EDUCATION: JD, School of Law, Indiana University, Bloomington, 1982 BA, History, Columbia University, 1973 QUALIFICATIONS: Former Assistant District Attorney, Former District Justice, Former Public Defender, Former Legal Instructor and Advisor MUNICIPALITY: OAKMONT A1: I led the fight against past efforts to restrict people’s ability to cast votes, and I continue to support all of these reforms that will make it easier for all citizens to vote. A2: It’s become painfully clear that Harrisburg is broken. Special interests are blocking things from getting done. I support limits on the size of campaign contributions, a ban on gifts from lobbyists, withholding pay for legislators if a budget is not passed on time, and greater disclosure of outside income sources of government officials. A3: The redistricting process hasn’t changed much in 50 years. It’s part of the reason Harrisburg is broken, and I will consider any changes that would improve current processes to ensure fairer representation and more competitive elections.
REPUBLICAN No Candidate Filed
34TH DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC PAUL COSTA Candidate did not respond
REPUBLICAN No Candidates Filed
No Candidates Filed
33RD DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC
DEMOCRATIC
35TH DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC MARC J. GERGELY Candidate did not respond
REPUBLICAN
FRANK DERMODY ANTHONY M. DELUCA ANTHONY M. DELUCA Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: 1438 Homestead Road Verona, PA 15147 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (412) 793-8561
FRANK DERMODY Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: PO Box 274 Tarentum, PA 15084 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (724) 224-4408 CAMPAIGN EMAIL: info@frankdermody.com DATE OF BIRTH: 5-29-51
V. FAWN WALKERMONTGOMERY V. FAWN WALKER-MONTGOMERY Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: PO BOX 39 McKeesport,
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
VOTERS GUIDE 2016
PA 15132 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (412) 229-7620 WEBSITE: http://www.fawnwalker.com CAMPAIGN EMAIL: electvfawnwalker@gmail.com DATE OF BIRTH: 01/20/1980 EDUCATION: MS Criminial Justice Admin BA Political Science FACEBOOK: http://Fawn Walker Montgomery for State Rep MUNICIPALITY: McKeesport A1: Yes having access to voting is a fundamental right. If elected I will support legislation (such as pre-registration) in favor of increasing access to the ballot box. A2: If elected I will propose early budget meetings to discuss all concerns and work across party lines to do what’s best for the people of the 35th District. A3: Yes
36TH DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC
DEMOCRATIC BILL KORTZ Candidate did not respond
REPUBLICAN ROD SALKA Candidate did not respond
39TH DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC PETER T KOBYLINSKI Candidate did not respond
OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016
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ate bedside manner enable me to deal with patients of all backgrounds and their families. I am able to earn their trust and facilitate consent to and compliance with appropriate medical interventions. In a similar fashion, I can be a consensus builder among my House colleagues in a way that will break through partisan gridlock and accomplish real change that will benefit my constituents. A3: I would support redistricting reform, but would need to see the specifics of any given proposal before voting for it, in order to make sure that any “independent” citizens’ commission is truly independent. Allowing a redistricting commission to be controlled by partisan members would not serve the people any better than the current system of allowing a partisan legislature to control the redistricting process.
REPUBLICAN
REPUBLICAN RICK SACCONE Candidate did not respond
40TH DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC JOHN MAHER
HARRY READSHAW HARRY READSHAW Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: 1917 Brownsville Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15210 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (412) 759-9546 CAMPAIGN EMAIL: readshawfh@comcast.net DATE OF BIRTH: August 17, 1941 EDUCATION: Duquesne University Pittsburgh Institute Mortuary Science QUALIFICATIONS: 11th Term Incumbent Municipality: PITTSBURGH A1: Yes. Democratic way should be to make it more convenient for people to participate. A2: Newly elected individuals seem to be extremists as in Left or Right depending upon party affiliation. Public must elect people that are willing to compromise and promote agreement on issues. I have always and will continue to seek a compromise and remedy to issues. A3: Yes. Gerrymandering has in some situations has been out-dated and politically motivate and confusing. commission MUST be independent.
REPUBLICAN No Candidate Filed
38TH DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (Vote for One)
ANDREW J. ZAHALSKY MD ANDREW J. ZAHALSKY MD Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 62222 Pittsburgh, PA 15241 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (724) 413-9813 WEBSITE: http://www.cureforthecommonpolitician.com CAMPAIGN EMAIL: ajz@cureforthecommonpolitician.com DATE OF BIRTH: 12/9/1970 EDUCATION: College and Medical School at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island QUALIFICATIONS: I am well trained in the art of evaluating problems, gathering data, and then developing and implementing a treatment plan. I have the ability to intelligently address the issues facing Pennsylvania and to seek out solutions. MUNICIPALITY: TOWNSHIP OF UPPER ST. CLAIR A1: I would be supportive not only of voter access initiatives, but also of easier ballot access for third party/independent candidates. Providing greater choices for potential leaders and better opportunities for people to choose their government will lead to better representation and better outcomes. A2: My strong interpersonal skills and compassion-
JOHN MAHER Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: 2514 CHAPELWOOD DR PITTSBURGH, PA 152412806 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (412) 831-9051 WEBSITE: http://www.votejohnmaher.com/ CAMPAIGN EMAIL: RepJohnMaher@aol.com DATE OF BIRTH: November 4, 1958 EDUCATION: Duke University, magna cum laude. Scholarships to Oxford University & Australian Graduate School of Qualifications: Built businesses named “Best Places to Work.” Certified Public Accountant. Elected 10 times by my 60,000 bosses. The ONLY Pennsylvania elected official in this century to receive the “Champion of Good Government” award from Common Cause. TWITTER: twitter.com/RepJohnMaher FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/VoteJohnMaher/ MUNICIPALITY: UPPER ST. CLAIR A1: I believe that 18 years old is the right age to start voting. As much as possible, voting should be conducted on election day. Voting a month early has been introduced in a few places but I think that is a bit like turning off a movie with a half hour still to run—you really do not have all the information to form a complete judgment. Same day registration has some appeal but would be a nightmare for the volunteers work 12+ hour days to staff the voting booths. These good citizens have enough challenges and further burden could discourage volunteers to fill the ranks. A2: I believe in leading by example—act like an adult and pursue real results intended to benefit Pennsylvanians long after my public service concludes. I authored the first open-records bill to succeed in my lifetime which shed light on state and local government where it could never be seen before. (The Pennsylvania Newspaper Association created
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an award named for Observer-Reporter publisher Bill Northrup to celebrate this victory for sunlight.) I wrote the law that ended Pennsylvania’s shame as the only state in the nation that had no laws about lobbying. Now who is being paid by whom to influence government can be seen by anyone. Sunlight is the best disinfectant. I have championed many bills to fight animal cruelty and been recognized as National Legislator of the Year by the Humane Society of the United States. In these examples, and so many others, progress was achieved by ignoring partisanship and appealing to the best instincts of other legislators to seize the opportunity to accomplish a worthy goal. A3: Actually, the Pennsylvania Constitution established a redistricting commission for state legislative seats that balances out partisanship by having five members: each of the four caucus leaders and a chairman generally selected by the Supreme Court. The problem with high-minded “independent citizens’ commission” is that ultimately, the members are selected by someone who will no doubt have a partisan taint just as the current system does. The redistricting of Congressional seats does follow a different path and is accomplished as a law adopted by the legislature and signed by the governor. I would support converting this process to the balanced commission established by our state constitution for state legislative districts.
42ND DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC DAN MILLER Candidate did not respond
REPUBLICAN No Candidates Filed
44TH DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC No Candidates Filed
REPUBLICAN MARK MUSTIO Candidate did not respond
45TH DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC ANITA ASTORINO KULIK Candidate did not respond
REPUBLICAN ANITA ASTORINO KULIK Candidate did not respond
VOTERS GUIDE 2016
46TH DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
REPUBLICAN ELI EVANKOVICH Candidate did not respond
(Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC
PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT 1 AMENDING THE MANDATORY JUDICIAL RETIREMENT AGE BALLOT QUESTIONS
JOE SZPARA JOE SZPARA Biographical Info: MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 475 Carnegie, PA 15106 CAMPAIGN PHONE: (412) 294-8052 CAMPAIGN EMAIL: joeforstaterep@yahoo.com DATE OF BIRTH: 9/25/1954 EDUCATION: Some College, Licensed EMT, Federal law enforcement training. QUALIFICATIONS: Retired Teamster, federal law enforcement, Successful business owner. FACEBOOK: http://joeforstaterep@gmail.com MUNICIPALITY: COLLIER A1: Yes, instant background checks are performed for stricter issues other than our most fundamental right, voting. I feel that giving our younger generation an early interest by registering will give them a sense of pride and responsibility, so that when it does come time for them to vote they will have a feeling of importance. A2: We need to get back to basics. We are so out of control on both sides that cooler heads and common sense needs to prevail. The tax payers need professionals, and professionals will negotiate. It really takes give and take from both parties. As a new face to the profession I believe that I have a diverse personality and can communicate as well with Republican’s as I can with Democrat’s. A3: Voters are disenfranchised for many reasons. I think a smaller House of Representatives might give voters a sense of change that’s noticeable to everyone. Even if it meant that I could no longer represent my District. I haven’t given much thought to a independent citizens’ commission, but I’m open to any discussion.
REPUBLICAN JASON ORTITAY Candidate did not respond
54TH DISTRICT HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (Vote for One)
DEMOCRATIC No Candidates Filed
Shall the Pennsylvania Constitution be amended to require that justices of the Supreme Court, judges and magisterial district judges be retired on the last day of the calendar year in which they attain the age of 75 years? Plain English Statement of the Office of Attorney General The purpose of the ballot question is to amend the Pennsylvania Constitution to require that justices, judges and justices of the peace (known as magisterial district judges) be retired on the last day of the calendar year in which they attain the age of 75 years. Presently, the Pennsylvania Constitution provides the justices, judges and justices of the peace be retired on the last day of the calendar year in which they attain the age of 70 years. Justices of the peace are currently referred to as magisterial district judges. If the ballot question were to be approved, justices, judges and magisterial district judges would be retired on the last day of the calendar year in which they attain the age of 75 years rather than the last day of the calendar year in which they attain the age of 70 years. This amendment to the mandatory retirement age would be applicable to all judges and justices in the Commonwealth, including the justices of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, judges of the Commonwealth Court, Superior Court, county courts of common pleas, community courts, municipal courts in the City of Philadelphia, and magisterial district judges. The ballot question is limited in that it would not amend any other provisions of the Pennsylvania Constitution related to the qualification, election, tenure, or compensation of the justices, judges or magisterial district judges. The effect of the ballot question would be to allow all justices, judges, and magisterial district judges to remain in office until the last day of the calendar year in which they attain the age of 75 years. This would permit all justices, judges, and magisterial district judges to serve an additional five years beyond the current required retirement age.
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
VOTERS GUIDE 2016
OCTOBER 26-NOVEMBER 1, 2016
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VOTERS GUIDE 2016
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Don’t forget to vote on November 8!