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OCTOBER 7-13, 2026
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Sept. 22, 2026, recognized as ‘Rev. Glenn Grayson Day’ in the City of Pittsburgh
REV. GLENN GRAYSON SR., WITH WIFE, MARSHA GRAYSON, AND FAMILY, ON SEPT. 18, 2026, OUTSIDE THE JERON X. GRAYSON COMMUNITY CENTER. (PHOTO BY GAIL MANKER)
Celebrating 30 years as pastor of Wesley Center AME Zion Church by Rob Taylor Jr. Courier Staff Writer
Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2026, felt like an ordinary day in the City of Pittsburgh. But it wasn't. Pittsburgh City Council, with everything including
the kitchen sink on their plate, stopped to honor a man who, in many circles, needs no introduction. They honored the Rev. Glenn Grayson Sr., longtime pastor of Wesley Center AME Zion Church in the Hill District. Thirty
years, to be exact, as pastor of the church. But there's more to Rev. Grayson than what he preaches inside those church walls at 2701 Centre Avenue. He's probably known just as well for all the community work he's
JAZZ OVERTAKES PITTSBURGH
done and continues to perform outside the church. Pittsburgh City Council, led by its president, R. Daniel Lavelle, declared Sept. 22, 2026, as "Rev. Glenn Grayson Day" in the City of Pittsburgh. "He's already been rec-
ognized by President (Barack) Obama for his work, so this is rather small in comparison," Councilman Lavelle said. "But nonetheless, he's been serving this city for a very long time. We thought it was important
to both recognize these years of service as a minister, as a pastor, as well as his service to the actual City of Pittsburgh." Councilman Lavelle lauded Rev. Grayson for SEE REV. GRAYSON A3
Blacks account for half of new HIV diagnoses in Allegheny County Overall numbers going down, however by Rob Taylor Jr. Courier Staff Writer
R&B AND JAZZ LEGEND LALAH HATHAWAY was one of the many artists to grace the stage at the 2026 Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival, presented by the August Wilson African American Cultural Center, Sept. 17-20, 2026. See more photos on Page A4. (Photo by Gail Manker)
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Allegheny County recorded the fewest new cases of HIV diagnoses since HIV surveillance in the county began, but no one's throwing a party. In 2025, 53 new cases of HIV diagnoses were recorded in the county, which is a far cry from the 115 new HIV diagnoses recorded in 2016, or the 78 new cases recorded in 2024. But the New Pittsburgh Courier has learned that of the 53 new HIV cases in 2025, 27 of them, or 51 percent, were people who identified as Black. Twenty-eight percent identified as White, and 21 percent were identified as other or unknown. The takeaway—Allegheny County is about 14 percent Black, but over half of its new HIV cases are Black. And going back a decade, the data compiled from Allegheny County shows that Blacks have
accounted for at least half of the HIV diagnoses in the county each year. Going back to 2016, Blacks accounted for 60 of the 115 new HIV cases, or 52 percent. In 2018, African Americans accounted for 59 percent of the new HIV diagnoses in the county. In 2021, the percentage for African Americans was 58 percent. In 2024, the percentage was 54 percent. The Allegheny County Health Department said that "for nearly the past decade, Black individuals are 10 times more likely than White individuals in receiving a HIV diagnosis." Allegheny County Health Department Medical Director Dr. Jillian Irwin is well aware of the disparity. "It's pretty alarming," Dr. Irwin told the Courier in an exclusive interview, Sept. 22, 2026. "It reflects a disparity in the access to treatment and access to prevention, and it reflects
the need for new relationships to be built." Dr. Irwin said the county just opened a health clinic in McKeesport, but the county is looking to form more partnerships with community organizations
DR. JILLIAN IRWIN
to expand access to information about preventing HIV, or if it's already diagnosed, how to keep it from SEE HIV DIAGNOSES A5
NATIONAL
A2 OCTOBER 7-13, 2026
Iconic R&B singer Freddie Jackson passes by Rob Taylor Jr. When you think of music for the “Grown Folks,” you think of songs like, “Rock Me Tonight,” or “You Are My Lady,” or “Tasty Love.” R&B ballads that had that real, authentic soul. Real. Authentic. Freddie Jackson. Jackson, the Harlemborn-and-raised voice of a generation, two times Grammy nominated for his works, died on Oct. 5, 2026, three days after his 70th birthday, the New Pittsburgh Courier has learned. Jackson’s family posted a statement to his Instagram page: “Freddie was more than a legendary voice. He was a kind, generous soul who loved his fans, his family, his friends, and his music with everything he had. For decades he gave us the songs that became the soundtrack to our love stories, our celebrations, and our most treasured memories. That gift will live on forever. To everyone who ever sang along, danced, or felt something when Freddie took the stage: thank you. You were family to him, and he carried your love with him always.” Frederick Anthony Jackson, born on Oct. 2, 1956, finally broke through the tough-tocrack music scene in the mid-1980s with his debut album, “Rock Me Tonight,” featuring the song that’s come to
define his legacy. The song spent six weeks at the top of the Billboard Black Music chart in 1985. Jackson’s second single off the album, “You Are My Lady,” cemented his place in the R&B world in the ‘80s. Still, there were other highlights on that debut album, including “Love Is Just A Touch Away” and “He’ll Never Love You.” Jackson’s second album, “Just Like The First Time,” released in November 1986, featured the well-known “Tasty Love,” “Have You Ever Loved Somebody” and the uptempo track, “Jam Tonight.” The favored songs, “I Don’t Want To Lose Your Love” and “A Little Bit More,” are also on that second album. Jackson went on to record at least 10 more albums throughout his
career. In 2024, Jackson revealed that he was diagnosed with kidney disease. It’s unclear as of Courier press time the exact cause of Jackson’s death. R&B powerhouse singer Stephanie Mills said on Instagram, “Rest in paradise, Mr. Jackson,” upon learning of Jackson’s death. The Rev. Al Sharpton also commented on Jackson’s passing: “I’m saddened to hear of the death of my dear friend, Freddie Jackson. Freddie was an enormously gifted entertainer and committed community activist. When his record was Number 1 or not, he was always in the thick of his community. A true brother beloved who will be missed. May he rest (in) peace and power.”
Legendary Chronicle journalist Steve Holsey dies at 77 by Aaron Foley Michigan Chronicle
Steve Holsey, a veteran journalist who began writing for the Michigan Chronicle in his teens and would go on to spend the next five decades exclusively with the newspaper documenting the evolving Black entertainment scene in Detroit – as well as Detroit’s place in Black entertainment at large – has died. He was 77. For years, “Let the music play!” was Holsey’s regular sign-off in his weekly column, which both set and followed trends
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This Week In Black History
A Courier Staple • OCTOBER 7
Courier Staff Writer
1821—One of the most prominent Blacks in the Underground Railroad, William Still, is born near Bedford, Mass. The “Underground Railroad” was the name given to a series of secret trails and safe houses used to help Blacks escape from slavery in the South to freedom in the North. 1897—The founder of the Nation of Islam Elijah Muhammad is born Elijah Poole in Sandersville, Ga., as one of 13 children. Muhammad would build his religious sect into the largest independent Black separatist organization in America. The group is currently headed by Min. Louis Farrakhan. Muhammad died in February 1975. 1934—Activist, writer and poet Imamu Baraka is born Everett LeRoi Jones in Newark, N.J. Baraka was one of the leading intellectual figures in the Black Power and Black Nationalist movements of the 1960s and early 1970s. A special tribute honoring Baraka’s 75th birthday took place around this time last year. 1967—Carl Stokes is elected the first Black mayor of a major American city—Cleveland, Ohio. Interestingly, he won by defeating Seth Taft—the grandson of a former United States president—Howard Taft. 1993—Writer Toni Morrison is awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature.
• OCTOBER 8
1775—Slaves and free Blacks are officially barred by the Council of Officers from joining the Continental army to help fight for American independence from England. Nevertheless, a significant number of Blacks had already become involved in the fight and would distinguish themselves in battle. Additional Blacks were barred out of fear, especially in the South, that they would demand freedom for themselves if White America became free from Britain. 1941—National Black political leader and two-time candidate for president of the United States Rev. Jesse Jackson was born on this day in Greenville, S.C. After the 1968 assassination of Civil Rights Movement icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Jackson, who was one of his top aides, would become the nation’s most prominent and influential civil rights leader.
• OCTOBER 9
in local and national entertainment. Arriving at the Chronicle in 1968, Holsey’s expansive notebook details Motown’s post-golden age when the company relocated its headquarters to Los Angeles just as a new crop of homegrown entertainers began to fill the void left behind; the increasing influence of Detroit as an entertainment stronghold for then-new Black creatives seeking to make a name for themselves; and countless interviews with both the big names in front of the lens and the ones holding the camera. But despite the frontrow seat and all-access pass to the show, Holsey himself preferred to remain behind the curtain. His identity was always known – each week, his headshot was printed in his column – and the amount of correspondence from readers and artists alike left in his archives are proof, but Holsey did not seek the limelight as some of his peers in entertainment media, nor traded his influence for favor among the celebrity elite. “There are certain people who find their pas-
sion and their purpose, and that’s their payoff,” said PulseBeat.TV founder Greg Dunmore, whose father, former Chronicle managing editor Al Dunmore, mentored Holsey. “He would take his vacations going into the Michigan Chronicle office – for him, that was a form of a vacation. You tend to go where you enjoy, and there was no place Steve enjoyed more than the Michigan Chronicle.” “You know, I’ve gotten press all over the world now, but nothing was important as those early pieces from Steve Holsey in the Michigan Chronicle. Nothing. It just doesn’t compare,” Detroit native Donnie Simpson, a one-time WJLB teen deejay who went on to become one of the faces of BET after a long-running radio career, says. “Steve was just cool. I liked him so much, and he was very kind to me. The first press I ever got was from Steve Holsey.” Along the way, Holsey’s opinion-heavy writings prompted heated debate among Chronicle readers – and made him a mustread byline.
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1806—Benjamin Banneker dies in Ellicott Mills, Md., at age 74. Banneker was a brilliant mathematician with a great memory and is credited with completing the layout and design of Washington, D.C. 1823—Mary Ann Shad is born. She becomes publisher of Canada’s first anti-slavery newspaper—The Provincial Freeman. In fact, she is the first woman in the U.S. or Canada to edit and publish a newspaper. 1962—The east African nation of Uganda becomes independent from British rule. 1984—W. Wilson Goode makes history by becoming the first Black mayor of Philadelphia, Pa. 2009—In a move which surprised just about everyone, President Barack Obama is awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Obama had been in office for less than 9 months at this time last year but the Nobel Committee in Oslo, Norway, said it was impressed by his “promise” of disarmament and diplomacy.
• OCTOBER 10
1778—What is believed to be the first formal school for Blacks— the Africa Free School—opens in New York City. 1899—Black inventor Isaac Johnson patents the bicycle frame. 1901—Frederick Douglass Patterson is born. He grows up to become President of Fisk University
in Nashville, Tenn. From there he would later launch an effort that leads to the 1944 founding of the United Negro College Fund. Jazz pianist 1917—Famed Theolonius Monk is born in Rocky Mount, N.C. 1935—George Gershwin’s “Porgy and Bess,” a Black spiritual opera, premiers on Broadway in New York City. It starred Todd Duncan from Howard University. The play becomes one of the most popular Black-themed shows ever to hit Broadway. The 1959 movie version stars Sidney Portier and Dorothy Dandridge.
• OCTOBER 11
1887—Alexander Miles patents a major safety improvement to the elevator. Miles did not invent the elevator. But he made it safer with an automatically closing door which prevented people from accidentally falling down elevator shafts. 1890—Black inventor Charles Orren Bailiff patents the shampoo headrest. 1939—The NAACP organizes the NAACP Education and Legal Defense Fund, which goes on to win many important legal battles guaranteeing civil and educational rights for Blacks. 1991—Comedian and actor Redd Foxx dies at age 68. He was born John Elroy Sanford in St. Louis, Mo. An IRS raid on his Las Vegas home to collect back taxes is thought to have hastened his death.
• OCTOBER 12
1854—Lincoln University is founded in Pennsylvania. 1932—Richard Claxton “Dick” Gregory is born in St Louis, Mo. Gregory is an American civil rights activist, social critic, writer, entrepreneur, conspiracy theorist and comedian. 1945—The lynching of Jesse James Payne takes place in Madison County, Fla. The lynching came to typify the lies that prompted many a lynching. Payne got into an argument with his White boss and threatened to expose some of his boss’ illegal dealings. But the boss then spread a rumor that Payne had molested his daughter and Payne was lynched. 1972—Nearly 50 Black and White sailors were injured in a race riot aboard the aircraft carrier Kitty Hawk during the Vietnam War. 1999—Basketball legend Wilt Chamberlain dies at age 63. The 7’1”, 280 pound great included among his records the scoring of 100 points in one game when the Philadelphia Warriors beat the New York Knicks 169 to 147 on March 2, 1962.
• OCTOBER 13
1902—Arna W. Bontemps (19021973) is born. He was a noted poet and librarian of Fisk University in Nashville, Tenn. Bontemps frequently collaborated with another noted Black poet Langston Hughes. 1914—Garret Morgan, an African American inventor and community leader, invents and patents the gas mask. He is renowned for a heroic rescue in 1916 in which he and three others used the mask he’d developed to save workers trapped within a water intake tunnel, 50 feet beneath Lake Erie. 1919—Whites riot in Phillips County, Ark., leaving nearly 80 Blacks lynched. 1926—Jesse Leroy Brown is born. He became the first Black naval aviator. 1970—Communist and activist Angela Davis is arrested as a fugitive in New York City for her alleged role in a California courthouse shootout that left four dead. She is later found not guilty.
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Sept. 22, 2026, recognized as ‘Rev. Glenn Grayson Day’ in the City of Pittsburgh REV. GRAYSON FROM A1
strengthening Wesley Center's congregation with his leadership, guiding major church renovations and enabling the church to retire its mortgage in 2000. But back to that honor from then-President Obama... In 2014, President Obama honored Rev. Grayson as a Gun Violence Prevention Champion of Change, one of only nine people in the country to receive the honor that year. Reverend Grayson traveled to The White House in Washington, D.C., and was on a panel discussion about gun violence prevention. In his hand was a copy of one of the New Pittsburgh Courier's April 2014 editions, where it read that through the first three months of 2014, 15 of the 20 homicide victims recorded in Allegheny County were Black. "I say to people that 'March Madness' has nothing to do with the basketball court... March Madness is when (from January to March) 15 African Americans, 20 people total, lost their lives senselessly to gun violence. So 'The Center that C.A.R.E.S.' continues to advocate prevention. My wife (Marsha) and I have always opened our doors to children and families. Fourteen years ago (in
2000) I saw a need to work with prevention, to help young people, to encourage them, so 'The Center that C.A.R.E.S.' came into fruition from a vision of mine." Reverend Grayson also discussed at The White House on April 3, 2014, how he wears his late son Jeron's Schenley High School MVP ring from the football team's championship run. "I won't have that experience of him finishing college and getting married and giving my wife and I grandchildren," Rev. Grayson said. "His brother (Glenn) Garrett and sister Shinora will never experience that bonding anymore. So we continue to advocate prevention, as we continue to touch lives. "I tell the faith-based community, it could happen to anybody," Rev. Grayson continued. "A gun doesn't have a name on it. My wife's an attorney, I'm a preacher, but a bullet can take a life, whether you are on public assistance or a millionaire. A gun senselessly can take innocent lives." Jeron Xavier Grayson died on Oct. 17, 2010, at age 18. He was an innocent bystander at a party near California University of Pa. when someone fired a gun and shot through the front door. He was home for the weekend from college at Hampton Uni-
versity. The Jeron X. Grayson Community Center, which has been in existence for more than 12 years on Enoch Street in the Hill District, has been a central hub for enriching the lives of students, with an emphasis on preventing gun violence. It was also where, on Sept. 18, 2026, Rev. Grayson was honored by many members of the community for 30 years of service to Wesley Center AME Zion Church. "I'm deeply humbled and honored to first, be here, and serve 30 years at Wesley Center AME Zion Church, and be the founder of 'The Center that C.A.R.E.S.' that's served thousands of young people over the years," Rev. Grayson said during his remarks in Pittsburgh City Council chambers, Sept. 22. Among those by his side were his wife, Marsha, son, Glenn G. Grayson Jr., and one of Rev. Grayson's closest friends. Reverend Grayson, the Brooklyn, N.Y., native, of which his distinct Brooklyn accent can still be heard at times, said that the "City of Pittsburgh has been wonderful to me and my family and in the memory of my son, Jeron X. Grayson, we receive this. We appreciate all that this city has done and enriched our
REV. GLENN GRAYSON SR. WITH A PROCLAMATION FROM PITTSBURGH CITY COUNCIL. lives, and we pray that we, along the way, have made a difference and impact in the lives of the people of this community."
"I'm deeply humbled and honored to first, be here, and serve 30 years at Wesley Center AME Zion Church, and be the founder of 'The Center that C.A.R.E.S.' that's served thousands of young people over the years."
MANY MEMBERS OF THE GRAYSON FAMILY. (PHOTO BY GAIL MANKER)
Feel seen. Be heard. Discover confidence.
Medical • Mental Health • Dental ALL INSURANCE ACCEPTED, NOT REQUIRED REV. GLENN GRAYSON SR., WITH WIFE, MARSHA. (PHOTO BY GAIL MANKER)
METRO
A4 OCTOBER 7-13, 2026
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Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival 2026!
VOCALIST ERIC ROBERSON, AMONG THE MANY PERFORMERS AT THE PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL 2026, HELD, SEPT. 17-20, 2026, ALONG LIBERTY AVENUE, DOWNTOWN, AND AT THE AUGUST WILSON AFRICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER. IT WAS THE 16TH YEAR FOR THE EVENT.
DRUMMER TERRI LYNE CARRINGTON. (PHOTOS BY GAIL MANKER)
VOCALIST SAMARA JOY
VEMA SAM’I GETS HER LATTE FROM TENEL DORSEY AND JASON RIVERS OF CAFE ASE.
A CITATION APPLAUDING AND RECOGNIZING THE PITTSBURGH INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL, FROM STATE REPRESENTATIVE LA’TASHA D. MAYES, CENTER.
METRO
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OCTOBER 7-13, 2026 A5
Blacks account for half of new HIV diagnoses in Allegheny County ACHD wants to partner with more community organizations spreading to others. And while Dr. Irwin confirmed that the majority of new HIV cases in the county come from men who have sex with other men, heterosexual contact accounted for 23 percent of the new HIV cases in 2025. County data revealed that in 2025, of the 53 new HIV diagnoses, 40 were from men, 13 were from women. According to data from Allegheny County, there were 3,775 people living
with HIV in Allegheny County at the start of 2025; Twenty-six percent were between the ages of 55-64, followed by 22 percent between the ages of 35-44. The data also revealed that 2 percent were between the ages of 15-24. Dr. Irwin said the county has a goal of eradicating new HIV cases in Allegheny County by 2030. She said there has been so much investment and effort put into reducing the HIV numbers in the county over the last decade, but "all of the progress can
very easily be lost" if the investments stop. "2030 is a great goal," she told the Courier, "but it's not going to happen by us sitting around patting ourselves on the back. It's going to happen by building those relationships and continuing those investments that have already been made." Dr. Irwin said that the county offers free home STI and HIV testing for anyone with an Allegheny County address. She said those interested can visit the Allegheny Coun-
ty Health Department website to order a test, which would then be sent to the person's home. The results would be given to the person online or via email. YEAR
Allegheny County
By The Numbers NEW HIV DIAGNOSES
BLACK %
53 78 66 72 89 79 76 75 87 115
51 % 54 % 50 % 54 % 58 % 59 % 57 % 59 % 51 % 52 %
2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Source: Allegheny County Health Department STI Dashboard
PHOTO BY EVAN ZIMMERMAN FOR MURPHYMADE
HIV DIAGNOSES FROM A1
OCTOBER 27-NOVEMBER 1 • BENEDUM CENTER TrustArts.org/Broadway 412-456-4800 • Groups 10 + Tickets 412-471-6930 Box Office at Theater Square
RELIGION
A6 OCTOBER 7-13, 2026
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The Badge of Shame: What the deaths of Pierre Damas Bel and Phede Eugene tell us about being Haitian in America by Y. Siméon
For New Pittsburgh Courier
Reverend A. Marie Walker’s
Weekly Inspiration “JESUS IS THE STONE you builders REJECTED which became the CORNERSTONE. SALVATION is found in no one else, for there is no other NAME UNDER THE HEAVEN given to mankind by which we MUST BE SAVED.” Acts 4:11-12 NIV Quick view Bible REV. WALKER SAYS: I pray that you have already accepted JESUS as your SAVIOR. John 14:6—Jesus said to him, I AM the way the truth and the life, NO MAN comes unto the FATHER, but by ME.
We Haitians know a thing or two about being forced to wear a badge of shame. The badges—purposeful, poisonous, unrelenting—have taken the form of narratives of Haitians eating pets, having poor hygiene, being devil worshipers, carrying disease originating from a land of zombies, and being “fresh off the boat.” They have blighted perceptions of Haitian culture and contributions, and complicated the experience of Haitians seeking a place into the U.S. melting pot. Worse, we Haitians know such badges have been used to treat Haitians as scapegoats for America’s fears and anxieties to explain the source of HIV/ AIDS, immigrants taking Americans’ jobs, and exporting Haiti’s problems to America. Such blighting and racialization can exact a tragic self-hatred and psychological harm, particularly on Haitian youth. Take for example, the tragic fate of Pierre Damas Bel, the 20-year-old Haitian native of Springfield, Ohio—yes, that Springfield where 2024 presidential candidate Donald Trump and vice presidential candidate JD Vance campaigned and won in part by spreading false claims of Haitians eating their neighbor’s pets. Pierre’s family said he died by suicide, walking into oncoming traffic. He wrote in his last Instagram post about “carrying a feeling of shame and humiliation” after ICE agents fitted him with an ankle monitor. Pierre, a college student with a bright future in medicine, a member of JROTC, and a soccer
athlete, was the latest victim of Haitians being surveilled and primed for deportation by the Trump Administration after the administration ended the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) of more than 300,000 Haitian people residing in the U.S. Made to feel dread over one’s Haitian identity is an all-too-familiar emotion in the Haitian community, whose youth often bear the weight of wearing a badge of shame brought on by America’s racist agenda against Haitians. His passing draws eerie parallels to the 1984 passing of 17-year-old Phede Eugene, an honor student like Pierre Damas, who felt driven to suicide after accidentally being outed as Haitian in the thick of the HIV/AIDS pandemic, when Haitians were accused of harboring the disease and treated like lepers. The shame proved fatal for the mortified young Phede, who shot himself in a church parking lot. Forty-two years separate Phede and Pierre. Yet the stories speak to each other. Phede was marked by the stigma attached to being identified as Haitian during the AIDS crisis. Pierre experienced another kind of public marking: an ankle monitor that, according to his family and his own social-media posts, left him feeling humiliated and treated as though he were a criminal. The badges were different. The shame was hauntingly similar. Reports on the ground in Haiti note that Haitians already deported face severe homelessness and insecurity—let alone those Haitians who’ve lived in the U.S. for decades and return to a country they
Y. SIMEON barely know. The Haitian community is facing a dark time as Haitians are being sent to an unstable homeland, where even U.S. commercial flights to Haiti’s capital, Port-auPrince, remain strictly banned because of the political violence, yet a place the administration deems safe enough to return deportees. The deaths of Pierre, Phede, and many others should serve as a cautionary tale about what stigma can harm a young person’s sense of identity and belonging. For generations—seven generations removed from the Haitian Revolution—Haitians have encountered savage caricatures that have cast them as everything from cannibals to criminals. Their tragic fate should, too, raise awareness among Haitian youth who, like myself, went
“undercover”—hiding my Haitian identity and ancestry as I was overcome by the negativity hurled at being Haitian. Perhaps that is what makes the stories of Phede and Pierre so difficult to dismiss as tragedies belonging only to their own time. They show that over decades, Americans have rarely been allowed to encounter Haiti apart from the language of crisis—poverty, disease, disaster, gangs. When a country is repeatedly presented as condemned, it becomes easier to condemn its people, too. And when that condemnation follows children into classrooms, onto soccer fields, into churches and onto college campuses, the consequences are no longer abstract. I know, too well, that the badge is worn by human beings.
COURIER CHURCH DIRECTORY ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CATHOLIC CHURCH
BAPTIST TEMPLE CHURCH Sunday Worship: 8 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.
THE ONLY CHRISTIAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH IN WESTERN PA.
7241 Race Street Pittsburgh, Pa., 15208
Pastor—Rev. Dr. Rodney Adam Lyde
www.baptisttemple.church
Sunday Worship Service: 10:45 a.m.
Sunday Worship Service: 11 a.m. 825 Lorenz Ave. Pittsburgh, Pa., 15220 412-495-5156
Sunday School/Breakfast: 9 a.m.
EBENEZER MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH
Sunday Worship Service: 10:30 a.m.
Sunday Worship Service: 11 a.m.
Bountiful Blessings: 1st, 3rd Tuesday, 5-7 p.m.
2001 Wylie Avenue Pittsburgh, Pa., 15219
NEW EVANGELISTIC MINISTRIES 412-281-3141 91 Crawford Street Sunday Mass Pgh., PA 15219 11 AM Rev. C. Matthew HawkinsAdministrator
ST. JAMES AME CHURCH
NEW DESTINY CME CHURCH
312 Viola St. Duquesne, Pa., 15110
www.sbtmparishpgh.com
EAST LIBERTY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Sunday Services: 8:45 a.m. and 11 a.m. Summer Worship Sundays: 10 a.m. 116 South Highland Ave. Pittsburgh, Pa., 15206 412-441-3800
www.elpc.church
Rev. Dr. Michael Diaz
2535 Universal Road Penn Hills, Pa., 15235
Pastor— Robin Horton
MT. CARMEL BAPTIST CHURCH
www.mtcarmelbaptistnv.org
Pastor—Rev. Dr. Barbara A. Gunn
SIXTH MOUNT ZION BAPTIST CHURCH
“The Love Church”
WHITE LILY BAPTIST CHURCH “Word Fed, Spirit Led” Sunday School: 10 a.m. Sunday Worship Service: 11:15 a.m. 3621 Chartiers Ave. Pittsburgh, Pa., 15204 412-771-2533 Pastor—Rev. Antawn D. Coleman Sr.
108 W. 12th Ave. Homestead, Pa., 15120 412-461-8235
www.secnbapt.com
Senior Pastor—Rev. Laphon Flood-Francis
Sunday Worship Service: 11 a.m.
319 N. 2nd St. Apollo, Pa., 15613 724-596-4032
6556 Shetland Ave. Pittsburgh, Pa., 15206 412-441-7839
www.smzbcpgh.org
Pastor—
Nathaniel Pennybaker
NEW LIFE BAPTIST CHURCH
Sunday Worship Service: 10:15 a.m.
Servant Pastor A. Marie Walker
18 Harriet St., Rankin, Pa., 15105
Email: triedstonebaptist@comcast.net
Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship Service: 11 a.m.
Sunday Worship Service: 11 a.m.
Pastor—Rev. James D. Burwell
Pastor— Rev. William C. Roberts
THE SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH OF HOMESTEAD
Wednesday Bible Study: 7 p.m. 90 Port Perry Rd. North Versailles, Pa., 15148 412-823-2841
Sr. Pastor—Rev. Dr. Vincent K. Campbell
stjamesamepgh.org 444 Lincoln Avenue Pittsburgh, Pa., 15206
TRIEDSTONE BAPTIST CHURCH Wednesday Prayer Meeting: 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study: 7 p.m. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship Service: 11 a.m.
Tuesday eve. prayer line 313-209-8800, passcode 05277
ST. JOHN BAPTIST CHURCH Sunday School: 10 a.m. Sunday Worship Service: 11 a.m. 209 Bridge St. Wilmerding, Pa., 15148 412-829-8925
www.ebenezerbaptistpgh.org
ROCK HOUSE OF PRAISE WITHOUT WALLS MINISTRIES Sunday Worship Service: 11:30 a.m Thur. Bible Study: 7 p.m.
CLARK MEMORIAL BAPTIST CHURCH Sunday School: 9:15 a.m. Sunday Worship Service: 11 a.m. 1301 Glenn St. Homestead, Pa., 15120 412-462-1011 www.clark1889.org
Pastor—Rev. Dorothy Stubbs
Pastor— Rev. Lydia Evelyn Spragin
Wednesday Online Bible Study: 6 p.m. Login Information at
Pastor— Rev. John Welch
www.achurchforallpeople.org
Pastor—Rev. June Jeffries
CENTRAL BAPTIST CHURCH
MT. OLIVE BAPTIST CHURCH
“A Church with a vision, A people with a prayer, worshipping God with a praise”
Sunday School: 9:30 a.m.
Sunday Worship Service: 10 a.m. 2200 Wylie Ave. Pittsburgh, Pa., 15219 Pastor—Rev. 412-566-1437 Courtney D. Meadows
Sunday Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. 1201 Hiland Ave. Coraopolis, Pa., 15108 412-264-3125
Pastor—Rev. Brian Carswell Flanagan Sr.
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The Longest Yard...One more time :10--A tip of the cap and one big atta-boy to longtime friend Vince Lackner, he of the Lackner Group, original Connie Hawkins League baller and Hall of Famer, and member of the famed Harvard Crimson hoop team...which, by the way, propelled him to several years of European pro basketball. Took his skill set to the 2026 Ultimate Long Drive (ULD) competition at Wood Ridge Farms in Lovingston, Va., where he finished fourth in the world in the Super Fossil Division (75+). His best drive in round one ended up one yard short of the winning drive of 236 yards. Congratulations Vince. We’ll take your 235 yards...it’s Pittsburgh Proud. :09--Speaking of the longest yard as it relates
to the game of football, needless to say there’s enough bad stuff to talk about on the Steelers loss to the Cleveland Browns and I will get to it. Do you mean to tell me that a professional football team
in 2026 can’t advance the football 20 yards with 10 seconds on the clock?! You would be wrong if you think not. Lord knows I’ve seen Tom Brady slice up 20 yards on three downand-outs and then leave
two seconds to kick the field goal. C’mon, new Coach Mike “I am an offensive guru” McCarthy! :08--With the Steeler game still disrupting my chances of not only taking some digits out of one Myron Brown’s back pocket (yep, that Myron Brown... he of the Slippery Rock, Minnesota Timberwolves, European League, Jump with MJ any day of week legend!), here’s another question for ya...Yes, you want to get Darnell “Mt. Washington” in the game more and often. But not three throws in a row. Fake it to him on the last throw and then go back to D.K. Metcalf. After all, he is your money man! :07--Oh, what’s this all about? I called for your Steelers to win 12 games this year. Now it looks like
I am going to have to find a dollar somewhere to pay Myron if your boys don’t get their act together. Don’t laugh. This economy is killing me, too! :06--Last word on this I think/hope. Joey Porter’s gone; let the conversation go with him. He clearly didn’t want to be here! A wise man once said, “I want volunteers, not hostages,” quote “Coach Mike T” forever more. :05--Oh, by the way, I didn’t get this in last week, but yeah, “Coach Prime” aka Colorado Head Coach Deion Sanders, you did face some deserved public scrutiny and accusations of hypocrisy for supporting THE PROTECT COLLEGE SPORTS ACT despite his own career moves and his son’s lucrative NIL deals.
C’mon, man...or should I say c’mon, AFLAC!!! :04--Speaking of Shedeur Sanders, due to no fault of his own, he probably won’t play QB for the Browns anytime soon. Deshaun “I am so sorry” Watson has risen from the dead. And not too shabby, I might add. Not a fan of the man, but his game is back! :03--Here’s your update on the diamond. Yankees fall behind the Tampa Bay Rays 2-0, Chicago White Sox lead the Cleveland Guardians 2-0, the L.A. Dodgers and Atlanta Braves are tied 1-1, the Milwaukee Brewers lead the Padres 2-0. :02--This just in, hard to believe, but the 202627 NBA regular season starts Oct. 20, 2026. And I am telling you right now,
the New York Knicks will not repeat. That being said, my Lakers aren’t winning any gold, either. :01--Don’t forget the Champions Car Cruise and Show, the last great run this summer. Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026, at the Auto Zone superstore, Monroeville. The fun starts at 2 p.m. and goes to 7 p.m...DJ Shock, food and drinks on site, 50/50, and meet Miss Pittsburgh Ikea Sade. 412-902-5761 for info. :00-00--Double Overtime...Who you gonna go see if they’re playing the same night, James Brown or Michael Jackson??? GAME OVER.
Some coaches keep their politics quiet until they've become rich off Black players There have been many theories regarding the negotiations or lack of regarding ex-Steelers AAA cornerback Joey Porter Jr. being promoted to the parent club, the Dallas Cowboys, in the middle of the night, when many folks including yours truly, were clearly under the influence of Hydrocodone so some other conscious altering medication. For almost two full decades, many Pittsburgh haters, skaters, imitators and instigators mistreated ex-Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin as if he were a burglar discovered drunken and asleep on the sofa of a victim’s home with a partially eaten sandwich placed in a dirty saucer on the living room coffee after the perpetrator has raided the fridge and the bar in the mancave. Mike Tomlin’s former head coach in Tampa Bay was Tony Dungy and Jon Gruden. Dungy took over as head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1996. He held that role for about six
seasons, from 1996-2001. Under his leadership, the Buccaneers really turned a corner, becoming a consistent playoff contender, which was a huge turnaround for the long-suffering Tampa Bay Buccaneers franchise. Many people scolded the Steelers management for hiring a young and inexperienced head coach such as Michael Pettaway Tomlin when Steelers HOF Head Coach Bill Cowher departed the team on January 5, 2007. The Pittsburgh fan base began to gripe and whine incessantly because in their uninformed opinion, the young EEOC-supported head coach poached future Super Bowl-type players from ex-Steelers head coach Bill Cowher. Tomlin was no more than an unwelcome usurper, a non-qualified outsider with skin that was overloaded with melanin, incapable of identifying a pierogi or knowing where to grab an Iron City beer during an extreme “Yinzer 911 call.” After Dungy was dis-
missed, he was hired as the new head coach of the Indianapolis Colts on January 22, 2002. It was an important moment for the Colts. Back in Tampa, Tomlin was the defensive backs coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers beginning in 2001. He held that position through the 2005 season. There is a glaring
negative regarding the reason that the tenure of Mike Tomlin was extended until the end of the 2005 season because Jon Gruden hadn’t gotten full use out of his young defensive guru. See folks, when Tony Dungy was retained as the new headmaster of the Colts, I believe he wanted to take Mike Tomlin with him, but the new head coach of the Buccaneers, Jon Gruden, kept Tomlin on his staff in
Tampa. However, Tampa Bay Buccaneers headmaster Jon Gruden permitted Mike Tomlin to be interviewed and eventually hired as the defensive coordinator of the Minnesota Vikings when Brad Childress became the head coach of the Minnesota Vikings back in 2006. Gruden wouldn’t allow Tony Dungy to interview Tomlin after Dungy was forced out as the head coach of the Buccaneers. Many people believe as I do that “politics is the hidden definition of your heart.” An article was recently posted by Sayed on msn.com. The title of the piece was: "Trump called Jon Gruden out of the crowd at an Ohio rally. The Super Bowl winning coach made a direct appeal to voters: Let's be there." The following contains a few excerpts from the article. One passage says that: “Jon Gruden did not stay in the crowd for long on Saturday in Vandalia. President Donald Trump spotted the Super Bowl-winning coach
at a rally for Ohio Senator Jon Husted, called him out from the stage, and later handed him the microphone.” Trump responded saying that: “We even have one of my favorite coaches in the whole world here, Jon Gruden. He’s a great coach, and he’s a very good golfer, too. We had a good time. Great winner. He’s a winner.” It seems that many coaches hailing from the college and professional ranks keep their politics in the back alley and undercover until after they have robbed our culture of vast amounts of capital and have stolen children with athletic ability from Black and brown communities of color, without reservation or remorse. Former colleges like Auburn University employed head coaches like ex-Auburn head coach Tommy (maggot) Tuberville, not only taught our children, supposedly, the game of football but Tuberville also promoted the notion of the fantasy that being a soldier in the present army of the gray skunks
is an honor and will help prove beyond the shadow of a doubt that “the Confederacy is far from dead,” and this band of 21st-century deviants is just a bit low on money and blood. Tuberville expresses his displeasure with “furries.” What’s wrong, Toe-mass? Are you jealous because you can’t get in on the action? Please don’t continue to be naïve or maybe even downright stupid. Don’t expect or even suspect that Black or some athletes of color will ever step on a level playing field. Why? Well, because my late wife Jennifer once told me that “some folks are of the opinion that many Blacks are undervalued because a select group of the population from Latin America have the distinct advantage of being bi-lingual and having “good hair.” As far as I am concerned, what my wife said makes pretty good sense to me.
PITT IS UNDEFEATED
PITT IS 5-0, BUT HAS TO PLAY THE REST OF THE SEASON WITHOUT ITS STAR QUARTERBACK. (PHOTO AT LEFT BY ROB LIGGETT) (PHOTO AT RIGHT BY JAMES PRUDE)
The Pitt Panthers are 5-0 to start the out for the season with a torn ACL, suf- chick-led North Carolina Tar Heels on 2026 season, but the bad news is their fered in the Oct. 2, 2026, game against Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026. star quarterback, Mason Heintschel, is Virginia Tech. Pitt hosts the Bill Beli-
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Property AACCWP announces Holly Douglas as new Chair of Board of Directors is Power!
What does Black Power mean in America today?
I have spent much of my life believing in a fairly simple version of the American promise. My parents taught me to get an education, work hard, be a good person, take care of my family and contribute something meaningful to society, and if I did those things, America would provide an opportunity to succeed. I believed them. More than that, I still believe them. America has been good to me. I have been blessed to build businesses, raise a family, experience success and spend much of my professional life helping other people pursue their own piece of the American Dream through property ownership. I love this country, and I have no interest in joining the voices that seem determined to convince us that America is either irredeemably broken or that Americans of different races are destined to view one another as enemies. But loving a country does not require us to close our eyes. As I look at America today, I find myself thinking more deeply about race, economic independence and what it means for Black people to build a future that is not entirely dependent upon the political, corporate or social climate of the moment. I have watched the
ANTHONY O. KELLUM national conversation around race change. Policies and institutions created to address historical disparities are being reconsidered, challenged or eliminated. Americans can reasonably disagree about those policies, and they should. My concern is larger than any particular program or political administration. It is about what Black America should learn from this moment. Perhaps it is time to revisit an expression that has made many Americans uncomfortable for more than half a century: Black Power. The words immediately bring to mind the 1960s and 1970s, raised fists, protests and a period of enormous racial tension. For some, the phrase suggests militancy or separation. But underneath the imagery was another idea that deserves serious consideration today: the belief that Black Americans needed not only legal equality and access to existing institutions, but also greater economic independence, community strength and the ability to exercise meaningful control over their own futures. That interpretation of Black Power speaks to me increasingly as I grow older. I am not interested in Black power over White people, or over anyone else. I am interested in Black people possessing enough economic power that changes in politics, corporate priorities or public sentiment do not leave an entire SEE PROPERTY IS POWER B2
The African American Chamber of Commerce of Western Pennsylvania (AACCWP) recently announced Holly Douglas, Vice President of Cosmos Technologies, as the new Chairwoman of the Chamber’s Board of Directors. Douglas brings extensive business experience and leadership to her new role. As Chairwoman, she will work with the Board of Directors and Chamber leadership to advance AACCWP’s mission of supporting small and minority-owned businesses and expanding economic opportunities throughout Western Pennsylvania. Douglas’s leadership comes at a time when the Chamber continues to expand its programs, partnerships, educational opportunities, and resources for small and minority-owned businesses throughout the Pittsburgh region. “We are pleased to welcome Holly Douglas as Chairwoman of the Board of Directors,” said Barata Bey,
President and CEO of the African American Chamber of Commerce of Western Pennsylvania. “Holly understands the important role that strong businesses play in creating economic opportunity throughout our communities. We look forward to working with her and the Board as we continue to strengthen the Chamber and expand opportunities for the businesses we serve.” The AACCWP also extends its sincere appreciation to Samuel Stephenson, the outgoing Chairman of the Board of Directors, for his service, leadership, and commitment to the organization. “On behalf of the Chamber, we thank Samuel Stephenson for his dedication and service as Chairman,” said Barata Bey, President and CEO. “His contributions to the Board and our organization are greatly appreciated, and we are grateful for his leadership and commitment to advancing the Chamber’s mission.”
HOLLY DOUGLAS
70 percent of consumers struggle with multiple affordability issues by Charlene Crowell As the nation’s affordability crisis continues, a growing body of new research finds that rising gas and grocery costs are but two of many factors causing consumers’ financial stress. Moreover, today’s financial stress is deemed a function of both old and newer consumer concerns. Research from the Georgetown Law Center on Poverty and Inequality exposes how 70 percent of all Americans struggle with multiple affordability issues like housing, food, health care, and childcare, according to its Family Economic Well-Being Index. Nationally, 41 percent of Americans face a health care burden, 33 percent face a housing burden, and nearly one-third face a food burden. “While families in poverty face the greatest difficulty affording the basics, this struggle reaches well into the middle class,” said Lelaine Bigelow, the organization’s executive director. “Millions of people are working hard and still can’t get ahead of these costs. The data make clear that affordability isn’t a narrow problem that can be solved with narrow policies. The scale of the response must match the scale of the challenge.” A longer-term view from the Brookings Institution finds the origin of America’s affordability challenges festered for more than a decade, beginning in 2014. “Over the 2014-to-2024 period, the shares of Black and Latino or Hispanic households making ends meet were the lowest of any demographic group,” according to its policy brief, States of Affordability: Where and why US households struggle to
PHOTO CREDIT: THE CENTURY FOUNDATION IMAGE make ends meet: “This trend mirrors the income and wage gaps that continue to persist by race and ethnicity… When the costs for housing, health care, education, and food rise faster than wages, families fall behind not because they are failing, but because the math no longer works in their favor.” These findings are substantiated by updated median household income statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau. Although 2025’s median household income of $87,460 was the highest on record dating back to 1967, nagging and historic income disparities by race and gender remain largely unchanged. Last year, non-Hispanic Whites had a median income of $75,030, lower than that of Asian Americans who topped this earning category at $90,430. At the same time, Black median income was $55,100, and
Hispanics even lower at $51,500. Similarly, by gender, 2025 female median income of $60,760 remained lower than that of men at $72,380. In other words, for every dollar in 2025 earned by White, non-Hispanic men working full time, yearround, Black women were paid just 64 cents, Hispanic women 60 cents, White women 81 cents, and Asian women 99 cents, as analyzed by the Center for American Progress. The stark jump in childcare costs —even when regional variances are considered—illustrate how hard these gender and racial statistics hit families. Just as housing is defined ‘affordable’ when it costs no more than 30 percent of income, similarly childcare costs are generally considered affordable when they cost no more SEE CONSUMERS B2
Investing ain’t just for rich people. It’s how regular people build wealth. A lot of folks hear “investing” and picture Wall Street, fancy suits, complicated charts, and people screaming at computer screens. They think you need a big salary, a rich uncle, or a secret stock tip. 𝐍𝐚𝐡! 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐤𝐞𝐩𝐭 𝐭𝐨𝐨 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡𝐛𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐠𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬. Investing has made more millionaires than the lotto — yet some folks buy tickets weekly while insisting they don’t have money to invest. 𝐘𝐨𝐮’𝐯𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐭 𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐲 to 𝐠𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐢𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐬𝐭. 𝐌𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐞! Investing means putting money into assets to grow it over time. Stocks. Bonds. Mutual funds. Index funds. The goal of investing is to grow your money. 𝐈𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐢𝐧’𝐭 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐡 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞. 𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐫 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐛𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐰𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐚𝐭 𝟑 percent. 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝 t𝐨𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝟏𝟓 percent. My investing philosophy is simple: invest 15 percent of your gross income toward retirement. Can everybody start there? No—between housing, groceries, childcare, and debt, jumping straight to 15 percent can feel like trying to dunk without leaving the floor. 𝐁𝐮𝐭 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐮𝐬𝐞 “𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧’𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐚𝐭 𝟏𝟓
percent” 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 “𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧’𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭.” Here’s the game plan: Start with a minimum of 3 percent. Increase your contribution by one percentage point whenever you get a raise or pay off a debt. Keep climbing until you reach 15 percent. Three becomes four. Four becomes five. Progress! If 3 percent truly isn’t possible today, start with what you can and work on your budget. 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭. Got a raise? Give your future a raise, too. Paid off the car? Don’t run straight to the dealership and sign up for another payment—you already learned to live without that money, so redirect part of it toward investments before your lifestyle gobbles it up. Stop letting every financial breakthrough become another spending opportunity. Remember, 15 percent is a target, not the rule. Your age, savings, timeline, and
expenses matter. Review your numbers, get started and adjust accordingly. 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐛 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡. Before you go searching for some magical investment, check what your job already offers. Does your employer match 401(k) contributions? If contributing 4 percent gets you the full match, aim for 4 percent as soon as your budget allows —my 3 percent starting benchmark shouldn’t keep you from collecting available matching money. A dollar-for-dollar match means your employer adds a dollar for each eligible dollar you contribute. You put in $100. They add $100. That’s $200 working for your future before market gains or losses. But read the rules: know the formula (some companies match fifty cents per dollar) and understand vesting (you may need to stay a certain period before the employer’s contributions fully belong to
you). 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐲𝐞𝐫’𝐬 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡 𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐲. 𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐚 𝐠𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝟏𝟎𝟎 percent 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐨𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐲. 𝐃𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞. 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐩 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐎𝐰𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠. Now, where should that money go? Beginners want the next hot stock—the company everybody’s talking about, the one somebody’s cousin allegedly doubled their money on. That’s how investing turns into expensive guessing. 𝐊𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐢𝐭 𝐬𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞. 𝐎𝐰𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭! Broad, low-cost index funds give you ownership in hundreds or thousands of companies through one investment. One company disappoints? Your whole future isn’t riding on it. That’s diversification— spreading your money around instead of putting every egg in one basket. It reduces your dependence on one company. And watch fees, too: unnecessary expenses take money out of your pocket and out of your growth. 𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐈𝐭 𝐁𝐞𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐅𝐞𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐕𝐨𝐭𝐞. Set up payroll deductions or automatic transfers. Make investing a payday habSEE DAMON CARR B2
BUSINESS
B2 OCTOBER 7-13, 2026
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Property is Power! What does Black Power mean? PROPERTY IS POWER FROM B1
community wondering what will happen to us next. For me, a modern Black Power movement would not begin with a protest sign. It would begin with a deed. There is a reason I have spent years saying that property is power. A house is more than shelter, and a deed is more than a piece of paper. Property can change the economic trajectory of a family. A monthly mortgage payment can gradually become equity. Equity can help finance another property, provide capital for a business, help educate a child, cushion a family during difficult times or eventually become an inheritance. A rental property can produce income long after the original purchase. Commercial property can house a business while creating another appreciating asset. Land can remain in a family for generations. That is power, not because it gives us authority over somebody else, but because it gives us greater authority over our own lives. The racial homeownership gap makes this conversation especially important. Black homeownership continues to trail White homeownership significantly, and that disparity matters far beyond housing. Homeownership has historically been one of the primary ways American families have accumulated wealth and transferred it from one generation to another. When one group has participated in that process at substantially lower rates for generations, the consequences compound. One generation has less equity to help the next generation with a down payment, less property to inherit and fewer assets available to finance education, entrepreneurship or investment. We know enough history to understand that this disparity did not simply appear. Black Americans lived through periods when discriminatory housing and lending practices restricted access to mortgages and neighborhoods. Those facts should be taught and remembered, not because history gives us permission to remain permanently angry, but because understanding how wealth was accumulated or prevented from accumulating helps us understand the economic landscape we inherited. Yet history cannot become our permanent strategy. There comes a point when the question must move from what happened to us to what we are going to build from here. That may be the most important question facing Black America today. If our parents and grandparents own homes, are we discussing how those properties will transfer to the next generation? Are wills and estate plans in place? Are we teaching our children what equity means before they inherit it? If we have strong incomes, are we converting some portion of those incomes into assets? If we build successful businesses, are we also considering who owns the building where the business operates? When a family member becomes successful, are we thinking only about that individual’s success, or about how knowledge, capital and opportunity can be transferred throughout the family? These questions require something more difficult than outrage. They require discipline. It is easy to identify what government should do, what corporations should do, what banks should do and what America should do. Those are legitimate conversations. Fair lending matters. Equal employment opportunity matters. Civil rights protections matter. Equal treatment under the law is not a favor bestowed upon Black Americans; it is part of the promise of American citizenship. But there is another conversation that belongs entirely to us: What are we going to do? That question becomes increasingly important in an era
when government policies can change with an election, corporate priorities can change with a new chief executive and programs that exist today may not exist tomorrow. A family cannot control all of those forces. What it can control, at least to some degree, is whether it saves, whether it invests, whether it owns, whether it plans and whether one generation prepares the next. This is where I believe the old language of Black Power can be given a new purpose. Economic self-determination does not mean rejecting America. It does not mean refusing assistance, opposing government programs or withdrawing from relationships with people of other races. None of us succeeds alone. Businesses need customers. Investors need markets. Communities need infrastructure. America functions because people with different backgrounds and beliefs participate in the same economic system. But there is an important difference between interdependence and dependence. I want Black America to be deeply integrated into the economic life of this country while also possessing enough assets, businesses, property, knowledge and institutional strength to withstand changing political winds. I want us to participate in America from a position of greater economic security. That requires us to rethink how we define success. For much of my younger life, success meant achievement: earning an education, developing a career, increasing income, receiving recognition and providing a good life for your family. I still value all of those things. But as I have gotten older, I have become more interested in permanence. What survives us? A salary ends. A title eventually belongs to somebody else. A career ends. Even a successful business can disappear if the next generation is not prepared to operate it. But properly managed assets can continue producing opportunity long after the person who acquired them is gone. One successful person is an accomplishment. A family capable of reproducing success across several generations is something more. It begins to resemble an institution. That is why I believe we must teach our children the difference between looking wealthy and owning wealth. Consumption can provide comfort and enjoyment, and there is nothing wrong with enjoying the fruits of one’s labor. But a luxury automobile depreciates. A designer label does not produce cash flow. The appearance of prosperity and the ownership of productive assets are not the same thing. Imagine instead a generation of young Black Americans who understand credit before they need to borrow, who understand mortgages before they purchase their first
homes, who know what equity means, who understand the fundamentals of investing, who recognize the value of entrepreneurship and who grow up discussing wills, trusts, insurance, real estate and generational wealth as naturally as previous generations discussed finding a good job. That kind of consciousness would be powerful. And it would not require us to hate anyone. I want Black children growing up believing they belong everywhere in America. I want them becoming electricians and engineers, physicians and developers, teachers and entrepreneurs, mortgage professionals and technology founders. I want them working with White Americans, Latino Americans, Asian Americans and every other community represented in this extraordinary country. I want us building businesses together, investing together, living beside one another, disagreeing with one another and ultimately succeeding together. But cooperation does not require economic vulnerability. There is nothing anti-American about a community wanting to own homes, build businesses, educate its children, preserve its assets and create something for future generations. In fact, those ideas sit very close to the heart of the traditional American Dream. Perhaps then, the modern meaning of Black Power should be less about power over others and more about capacity within ourselves: the capacity to build, own, invest, educate, preserve and transfer. I cannot predict where America’s current debates about race will ultimately lead, and I do not believe fear should become our organizing principle. Fear rarely builds anything worth inheriting. But awareness can become strategy. We can understand our history without becoming prisoners of it. We can acknowledge discrimination without allowing discrimination to define our expectations for ourselves. We can insist upon fairness from America while demanding responsibility from ourselves. We can love this country while recognizing its imperfections. And we can walk hand in hand with people of every race while remaining unapologetically serious about strengthening Black families and building Black wealth. That does not sound militant to me. It sounds mature. My parents’ generation told us to get an education, work hard, find a good career and become successful. They were right. Those values helped produce generations of Black professionals, entrepreneurs and leaders who might once have been denied those opportunities altogether. Our responsibility now may be to add another chapter to their instructions. Get educated. Work hard. Be a good person. Build a career. Treat people with dignity. Love America. Participate fully in its institutions and insist upon your rightful place within them. But also own something. Then teach your children how to keep it, grow it and pass it forward. That may be one of the most constructive meanings of Black Power for our time. Not anger. Not separation. Not superiority. Ownership, self-determination and legacy. Because equality is about having the opportunity to walk through the door. Economic power is about what we are able to build once we get inside. And that is why I will continue to say it: Property is Power! (Dr. Anthony O. Kellum—CEO of Kellum Mortgage, LLC Homeownership Advocate, Speaker, Author NMLS # 1267030 NMLS #1567030 O: 313-263-6388 W: www.KelluMortgage.com.) Property is Power! is a movement to promote home and community ownership. Studies indicate homeownership leads to higher graduation rates, family wealth, and community involvement.
70 percent of consumers struggle CONSUMERS FROM B1
than seven percent of income. Last year, the $13,184 national average annual price of childcare cost 33 percent of single parent households’ income, according to Child Care Aware of America’s 2025 National Trends report published this May. Nor was this disproportionate cost of care limited to one year. This same report found that child-
care costs rose: 23 percent from 2021 to 2025; In 47 states, two children (an infant and a 4-year–old) in a center are more expensive than median annual rent payments; In 39 states, two children in a center are more expensive than median annual mortgage payments; and In 38 states, infant care is more expensive than
in- state, public college tuition. “Families struggle to find and afford childcare, the childcare workforce is woefully underpaid, childcare programs operate on razor thin margins, and businesses are suffering lost productivity and workforce turnover due to childcare issues,” states the report. “Children, families, and communities across America remain on an
uneven playing field when it comes to state childcare and preschool funding.” This June Julie Margetta Morgan, President of The Century Foundation, testified at a hearing convened by the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. Succinctly summarizing the affordability crisis, she challenged lawmakers to enact meaningful reforms
for consumers and businesses alike: “Policymakers are focused on the cost of a gallon of gas today, but millions of Americans are still paying off last week’s tank of gas, plus more than 20 percent interest on those fuel costs…Given the role that financial institutions are playing in compounding families’ affordability woes, there is plenty that this Committee, and banking reg-
ulators could be doing to dramatically reduce families’ financial burdens.” (Charlene Crowell is a senior fellow with the Center for Responsible Lending. She can be reached at Charlene. crowell@responsiblelending.org.)
Investing ain’t just for rich people... DAMON CARR FROM B1
it. If your plan is to invest whatever’s left at the end of the month, good luck—takeout got some, subscriptions got some, that “I deserve it” purchase got the rest, and your retirement gets the crumbs. Investing equal amounts regularly is called dollar-cost averaging. Prices drop: your dollars buy more shares. Prices rise: your dollars buy fewer shares. You stay consistent instead of guessing the perfect day. 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 routine 𝐡𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐭 of investing consistently. Periodically I𝐧𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭 invested. 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐭. 𝐊𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐎𝐰𝐧. A 401(k) or Roth IRA is an account. The stocks, bonds, or funds inside it are the investments. Opening an account isn’t the same as investing the money—don’t deposit cash and assume it went to work. Select your investments and confirm where contributions go. That’s called asset allocation—how your money is spread among stocks, bonds, and funds. 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐬𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐭 𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝟗𝟎 percent 𝐨𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐢𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐬. Read that again. The specific stock you pick matters far less than how your money is divided up. Heavy on stocks? Bigger swings, bigger long-term growth—the lane when retirement is decades away. Heavy on bonds? Smoother ride, slower growth—the lane when you’ll need the money soon. No workplace plan? Consider a Roth IRA if you meet the eligibility rules. Qualified withdrawals, including earn-
ings, are tax-free, and regular contributions generally can come out without taxes or penalties—though earnings and conversions play by different rules. That flexibility can help in an emergency. It isn’t permission to raid retirement for every want. No match vs. Company’s match: 𝐒𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧. 𝐁𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥. On a $60,000 salary, investing 4 percent equals $200 a month. Without a match, $200 monthly for 30 years at a hypothetical 10 percent annual rate,
compounded monthly, produces approximately $452,000. You contributed $72,000. Growth handled the rest. Not bad! But look at the numbers when the company matches your contribution. Add a dollar-for-dollar match on that same 4 percent and your $200 plus their $200 puts $400 a month to work—approximately $904,000 under the same assumptions. Same money out of your pocket. Double the projected balance. Time, contributions, matching money, and com-
pounding can do some serious heavy lifting. 𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭 𝐃𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐬, 𝐊𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐝. Your favorite shoes go on sale? You get excited. Stocks drop? Suddenly everybody wants to run. Lower prices can let your dollars buy more shares. You’d buy an Apple Iphone when it’s 20 percent off but dump an Apple Stock when the price is 20 percent down. Nah fam, get more of them Apple stocks while they’re on sale! Know that a statement decline isn’t automatically a realized loss; selling below your purchase cost generally realizes it. Layman terms, you only lose money when you sell a stock at a price lower than what you purchased it for. In closing: Start at 3 percent. Grab the employer match—free money, guaranteed 100 percent return. Own the market with index funds. Set your split, because asset allocation drives 90 percent of returns. Automate it. Increase with raises and paid-off debts. Build toward 15 percent. Getting rich slow, steady, and on purpose takes discipline. (Damon Carr, Money Coach & Tax Pro can be reached at 412-216-1013 or visit his website at (TheCarrReport.com) Helping you flip your finances from stressed to blessed — one smart decision at a time.
OPINION
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Commentary
Local journalism is woven into the fabric of our communities Across Pennsylvania, from small towns to major cities, a common thread quietly weaves communities together. It draws attention to a local high school’s championship hopes, the detectives who solved a decades-old cold case, a proposed data center seeking approval in a township or the celebration of a hometown business reaching its 100th anniversary. That thread is local journalism, and it is an essential part of the fabric that binds our communities. National Newspaper Week offers an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the role local news organizations, both print and digital, play in our daily lives. They chronicle milestones, controversies, triumphs and challenges while holding public officials accountable for the decisions they make and their stewardship of tax dollars. Local journalists provide credible, trustworthy reporting that empowers citizens to make informed decisions and stay connected to the world around them. Their work also creates a lasting record that future generations can look back on to better understand the past and help shape a stronger future. Why do journalists spend hours covering public meetings where residents voice concerns and elected officials respond? Why do they rush to the scene of a fire in the middle of the night, wait patiently for the opportunity to question a hard-to-reach official or organize events that shine a spotlight on local stu-
Bill Cotter
dent-athletes and community achievements? They do it because these stories matter. Together, those stories become the first draft of history. Local newspapers have evolved to meet readers wherever they are. Today, their journalism reaches audiences through print editions, websites, newsletters, mobile apps and social media. Across these platforms, local news organizations provide comprehensive news and information about their communities, giving residents access to timely, reliable reporting whenever and however they choose to read it. Documenting important events and holding institutions accountable are fundamental responsibilities of local journalism. If a local newspaper disappears, a community loses far more than a source of headlines. It loses an independent government watchdog, a trusted record of local history and a shared source of information that helps neighbors understand the issues shaping their community. That void cannot be easily filled. Building and sustaining strong communities requires the efforts of residents, businesses, nonprofit organizations and public officials. It also depends on the news organizations that document, inform and connect those communities. The role newspapers and journalists play in keeping the fabric of civic life intact should never be underestimated. Their work matters, and it makes communities stronger. During National Newspaper Week, take a moment to recognize the importance of local journalism. Subscribe to a local publication and share its stories. Support local news through advertising, by patronizing its advertisers or by making a direct donation. Send news tips. Thank reporters and photographers when you see them covering your community. And encourage curious, civic-minded young people to consider journalism as a meaningful and vital calling. Local news organizations tell the stories that weave us together. They preserve the history of our communities, hold those in power accountable, celebrate our successes and help us navigate difficult moments. They keep residents informed, involved and connected to one another. That work strengthens the fabric of our communities —and our democracy.
(William M. Cotter is President and CEO, Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association) (The Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association is the official trade association representing print and digital news organizations across the commonwealth. For more than a century, PNA has worked to protect the freedom of the press, strengthen local journalism, and support the business operations of its member organizations.)
Founded 1910
Rod Doss Editor & Publisher Stephan A. Broadus Assistant to the Publisher Office Manager
Rob Taylor Jr. Managing Editor
John. H. Sengstacke
Editor & Publisher Emeritus (1912-1997)
B3
MMM 32nd anniversary! (TriceEdneyWire.com)—A few days ago, I was blessed to reunite with a couple of my best girlfriends for the purpose of reliving the Million-Man March! We went through every moment from the first day we heard about it to that miraculous day 32 years ago. Previously, when we’ve mentioned the March, those who didn’t know about our involvement from the beginning to the end would inevitably say, “Oh, you mean the Million Women March!” No, we meant just what we said. My friends who relived the experience with me were Linda Mercado Greene and Sister Nisa Muhammad. The three of us were there from the beginning when the March was announced, and when we were told the women would have the opportunity to stay home, watch the children, and prepare the family dinner, some of us objected to the thought that we were not expected to be on the National Mall with the brothers who’d be in Washington, DC. Linda asked what her role would be. Minister Farrakhan responded that he’d like her to be the Chief Fundraiser! I raised my hand, saying, “Minister Farrakhan, you know I love, honor and respect you, and I know you don’t expect me to stay home with one million Black men coming to Washington, DC.” I remember his chuckling as he was figuring out how he would respond after
Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq.
Commentary Linda asked what she would be doing. I challenged the notion of staying home and watching the event on television. He’d already given Linda a job. Mine did not come until later after the meeting when I received a call to let me know I would serve as Co-Chair with Dr. Benjamin Chavis! That was a big assignment, but I had asked for it! My first trip to discuss the March was to go to Atlanta. My next assignments were meeting the press up to the day of the event, and from there I was to chair the regular meetings to be held weekly at the Phi Beta Sigma headquarters. The meetings were always packed, causing many to sit on the floor, but the enthusiasm was so high that didn’t even matter. Soon after, I learned that Dr. Dorothy Height was on board. Thereafter, we began hearing the names of other women who wanted to help. Sister Nisa Muhammad was the Mid-Atlantic Regional MGT Captain. I’m sure there were highly involved sisters in other areas, but our job in D.C. was full-time! Some thought when we said a
million men would be involved, that wasn’t possible. Once it was over, we couldn’t count everybody, but looking at the number on the mall, the number watching in the USA on TV and observing others around the world, it would not be a stretch to say we had a BILLION! We are coming up to the 32nd Anniversary of the March! So many are already excited about the celebration to be held in Atlanta, Georgia on October 10th and 11th at the Georgia World Congress Center (Conference Center). We haven’t put a number on the celebration this year, but some have learned the huge positive impact Minister Louis Farrakhan has on so many of our people—and right now, we need to hear from him again as we see how our people are being treated in this country. It is my prayer that we’ll re-build the spirit among our people that we had 32 years ago. As Al Green advised us, “Let’s Stay Together” for the good of our people. Don’t worry about what others are saying. Don’t worry about what some are trying to take from us—even our history. Let’s Stay Together and continue to make even more history that benefits all of us. We are great people and don’t let anybody convince you otherwise. You can see the pledge made 32 years ago in my latest book called THIS IS ME! (See drefayewilliamsesq.org.)
Democrats’ wrong debate about working-class voters
Commentary
Allison Palm
OCTOBER 7-13, 2026
Ashley Johnson Sales Director
(TriceEdneyWire.com)—The 2026 midterm campaign is entering the final stretch. Democrats are poised for a big Election Night with the possibility of flipping both congressional chambers and several governorships. However, recent polling from Politico shows some cause for concern. Democrats remain underwater with the working class voters they need. While more working class Americans trust Democrats over Republicans, Democrats still only hold a 6 point lead over the GOP. The party is still way under a majority of support at just 38 percent. Fifty-five percent of Americans think politicians are just trying to win votes when they say they will help the working class, Politico found. This includes majorities who voted for Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Democrats can’t afford to have their affordability message muffled by an internal fight over the party’s direction. The working class needs to hear a clear and direct message from Democrats on how the party will bring down costs. Should the party move left or toward the center? Should it embrace a more progressive economic program or emphasize moderation to win back working-class voters who have drifted away? Those are real disagreements. But they obscure the more important question working class Americans want answered. Does the policy actually make working people better off? That is a different test from whether a policy is progressive or moderate. Call it the paycheck test. A policy passes the paycheck test when an ordinary worker can reasonably see how it leads to higher wages, more hours at decent pay, greater bargaining power, lower unavoidable expenses or more economic security. A political party passes the test when voters can connect what that party does in office with an improvement in their daily lives. A progressive policy can be highly effective at raising living standards. Another progressive policy can be administratively cumbersome, poorly targeted or almost invisible to the people it is intended to help.
Kevin Harris
Commentary The same is true of policies described as moderate. Some may produce tangible benefits while others may be politically cautious without producing much of anything. The labels tell us where a proposal sits in an ideological debate. They do not tell us whether it works. That distinction matters because political ideology and economic effectiveness are not the same thing. This is particularly important when thinking about working-class voters. Working class voters don’t care about left or right, progressive or moderate. They care about moving the economic needle in their own daily lives. They know what their paycheck buys. They know whether overtime is available. They know what rent costs, what groceries cost, whether health insurance feels affordable and whether a job that once supported a family still does. They don’t care about the ideological packaging. Working class families want evidence that the government can make work pay. How that evidence is labeled is less important than if the policy actually works. The more useful question is what a policy actually accomplishes, not which faction of the party deserves credit. And, critically, can the government execute it? That last question deserves more attention. A theoretically generous benefit that takes years to build, requires an expert to navigate or disappears into an obscure government agency that voters barely encounter may have very different political and economic consequences from one that shows up directly in a paycheck.
This does not mean that every government action needs to produce an immediate cash benefit. Governments build infrastructure, conduct scientific research, protect civil rights, regulate markets and provide public goods whose value cannot be measured by wages. But to rebuild economic confidence among working Americans, direct results deserve special weight. That reframes the progressive versus center intraparty argument. The choice should not be between a politics that is sufficiently progressive and one that is sufficiently moderate. If a progressive proposal raises real wages, makes housing substantially cheaper or gives workers greater leverage over their employers, ideology matters less than results. If a centrist proposal expands employment and leaves families with meaningfully more disposable income, the same standard should apply. There is also a communication lesson. Democrats cannot permanently message their way around disappointing economic experiences. A slogan about opportunity is not a substitute for opportunity. A speech about affordability does not make housing affordable. Calling an economy strong does not persuade someone whose paycheck no longer covers the same groceries. The most durable economic message is a policy result people can feel and experience in their daily life. Democrats will continue to have disagreements between progressives and moderates. But disagreement cannot become a substitute for measuring outcomes. To win back the working class, Democrats should remember that the more useful dividing line is not left versus center. It is effective versus ineffective. (Kevin Harris is a Democratic strategist who has advised over 100 campaigns and ballot measures, including the past five presidential elections, served in the Obama Administration, as a cabinet member for two big city mayors and state attorney and Executive Director of the Congressional Black Caucus.)
Unemployment fuels ‘Black Suffering’ by Aaliyah Clarke WASHINGTON (HUNS)—U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-Mass., announced federal job guarantee legislation on Friday as panelists at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 55th Annual Legislative Conference discussed the financial pressures facing Black families. During the panel, “Black Jobs, Black Women, Black Families, Black Futures: A Pathway to an Inclusive Job Market,” Pressley pointed to racial differences in unemployment and the financial challenges that can follow when people lose their jobs. “Black suffering is so systemic,” Pressley told attendees. “It’s so endemic. It’s so ingrained in the fabric of who we are that for many it is unremarkable.” Pressley said White unemployment is at 3.7 percent, compared with 6 percent for African Americans, based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Black women are also the primary breadwinners in 80 percent of Black households, she said. Pressley’s legislation urges the federal government to guarantee jobs
that would “pay no less than $25 per hour.” She referenced Coretta Scott King’s work advocating for full employment as an economic right and called on the Federal Reserve to fulfill its mandate of maximum employment. Described as an “urgent discussion about the unemployment crisis facing Black women,” the panel also focused on how unemployment can affect entire households. Ofronama Biu, chief economist of the Maven Collaborative, a research and advocacy nonprofit, presented data showing that when a Black woman becomes unemployed, her household income averages $44,000, compared to $80,000 for households with unemployed White women. Biu said financial strain can also affect access to basic needs. Among unemployed Black women, health insurance coverage drops from 92 percent to 79 percent, she said. Inflation can also lead families to rely on short-term installment loans to pay for groceries and gas. “When Black women suffer, Black children suffer,” said Brittany Packnett Cunningham, vice president and chief strategy officer at the Children’s Defense Fund. Cunningham said Black women of-
ten take on unpaid work that helps support neighborhoods, volunteer programs and extended families even when they are not working formal jobs. Angie Nixon, Florida state representative and Democratic Senate nominee, encouraged attendees to rebuild community-centered mutual aid networks, pointing to grassroots programs created by communities during the Civil Rights Movement. The conversation became more personal during the question and answer portion of the session when an attendee with a law degree asked how workers can stay resilient after using their savings and facing repeated rejection in the job market. Before the session ended, Pressley sent a member of her congressional staff into the audience to collect the woman’s resume and contact information. “There is so much shame we carry about things, a shame that is shaped by policies and systems and leaders that have failed us,” Pressley said. “It took great bravery to be candid … and we want to reward that bravery.” (Aaliyah Clarke is a reporter for HUNewsService.com.)
B4
FORUM
OCTOBER 7-13, 2026
Governing a blue city in a red state (TriceEdneyWire.com)—It’s understandable why politics turns people off. It’s reasonable to conclude that many politicians don’t care. Unfortunately, as citizens, we cannot afford to walk away and become totally disengaged from those chosen to act, speak, and govern on our behalf. We need them to do their jobs as “representatives” serving their constituency. Too often, Republicans are elected to office with the belief they are not there to serve their constituents who happen to be members of the opposite party or did not support their candidacy. Local and state governments are tasked with providing basic services to their citizens, and those services should never be made partisan or racial. Sometimes state and local officials need to work together to provide the basic necessities of life to their citizens. Jackson, Mississippi, is the perfect example of the challenges faced by a blue city trying to function in a red state. Jackson is not just any city in Mississippi; it is the largest city in the state and the seat of state government. Despite these distinctions, Jackson finds itself in a political trap by being a blue city in a red state. In many ways, Jackson is no different from other Southern cities faced with court-ordered integration of the public schools along with subsequent White flight. The population, which soared to over 200,000, has since dropped to about 150,000 after more than 40 years of decline. When White residents fled the city for neighboring suburbs, they left their love for Jackson behind. Today, Jackson is not only a blue city, but it is also an 82 percent Black city with 25 percent of its residents living in poverty. The goal of racial separation was achieved, and along with the White flight, there was lasting damage to the city’s tax base. As residents continued to leave, home values plummeted, driving down tax revenues and requiring tax rate increases. Businesses that could provide the city with a stable tax base also followed residents, relocating to areas with lower tax rates, newer infrastructure, and whiter populations. Those who chose to neglect and ignore Jackson because of the red/blue, White/Black, or the urban/rural divide may never realize that
David W. Marshall
Commentary holding back and disinvesting in Jackson will also hold back the state. Mississippi’s rural lawmakers in the Republican-dominated state legislature are following the long tradition of “separate and unequal” by intentionally failing to provide the majority-Democrat city with the adequate funding and resources needed to address its aging infrastructure. The practice of “separate and unequal” will cause one to watch the suffering and misery of people of color without being moved by it. Before Jackson faced its 2021 water crisis, Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves and Republican lawmakers repeatedly killed the city’s efforts to adequately fund essential water treatment upgrades. State lawmakers previously denied allowing the city to raise infrastructure funds through a sales tax increase. A bill that would have authorized a bond issuance to help Jackson repair and improve its water and sewer systems died in the Republican-controlled state House Ways and Means committee. In 2021, when approximately 40,000 Jackson residents went weeks without running water, Reeves told city leaders that they needed to do a better job “collecting their water bill payments before they start going and asking everyone else to pony up more money.” While water is a basic necessity of life, denying it by allowing critical systems to deteriorate is cruel and inhumane. Due in part to severe flooding, Jackson’s treatment plant ultimately failed, leaving thousands of city residents without water to drink, bathe, or even flush toilets. “Ideally, infrastructure serves as a shared foundation for economic, environmental, and public health between different neighborhoods and municipalities,” scholars at the Brookings Institute wrote in March 2021, after Jackson faced another severe water shortage. “However, infrastructure is often poorly maintained or intentionally overlooked in particular places, leading to a lack of access, affordability, and safety for many communities of color.” Understanding this single Jackson, Mississippi, example means understanding the governing pattern when blue cities are acted upon by red state governments everywhere. As a result, a group of 15 Democratic mayors governing in Republican-dominated states is building a new Blue Cities/ Red States Coalition that aims to influence national politics as a center-left alternative to both the MAGA movement and what they describe as “far-left dysfunction” from groups like the Democratic Socialists of America. The founding mayors govern cities including Cleveland; Montgomery, AL; Little Rock, AR; Tucson, AZ; Jacksonville, FL; Miami; Atlanta; Boise, ID; Kansas City, MO; Lincoln, NE; Columbus, OH; Tulsa, OK; and Memphis. According to its website, the coalition is needed to address state legislatures’ infringements on blue city governments. In an era of political polarization, the coalition seeks to bring together mayors working to address some of the nation’s most pressing challenges in complex “red state” environments. It shows that these local leaders understand what happens in Jackson can happen to them as well. (David W. Marshall is the founder of the faith-based organization TRB: The Reconciled Body and the author of God Bless Our Divided America.)
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Nikole Hannah-Jones: Praised for putting her child into failing school? Before winning the Pulitzer Prize in 2020 for The 1619 Project, New York Times journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones reported on education—concluding that American public schools in the twenty-first century remained segregated by race and class. Her observations convinced her to oppose charter and private schools. These alternatives deprived public schools of the financial resources and social capital required to transform underperforming schools into quality schools. Then Hannah-Jones opted to send her five-year-old daughter to one of New York’s struggling, predominantly Black public schools. In a 2016 New York Times Magazine essay titled “Choosing a School for My Daughter in a Segregated City,” Hannah-Jones explained, “Putting our child into a segregated school would not integrate it racially, but we are middle class [and that] would integrate it economically. As a reporter, I’d witnessed how the presence of even a handful of middle-class families made it less likely that a school would be neglected.” In other words, Hannah-Jones believed that the lack of middle-class parents with the resources and connections to advocate for the entire student body was the root cause of school underperformance. Hannah-Jones felt she had a moral obligation to send her daughter to an underperforming school to help the other Black children achieve. Her husband did not think her idea was noble. Hannah-Jones wrote, “He wanted to look into parochial schools, or one of the “good” public schools, or even private schools. So, we argued … [He] couldn’t believe that I was asking him to expose our child to the type of education that the two of us had managed to avoid … He worried that we would be hurting [our daughter] … putting her at a disadvantage.” More importantly, her husband believed, “There was no margin for error, and we had to use our relative status to fight to give [our daughter] every advantage.” Hannah-Jones eventually persuaded her husband to agree to something he had previously rejected as “experimenting with our child” due to idealism. Hannah-Jones was interviewed about her “school choice” after her 2016 essay
J. Pharoah Doss
Check It Out received widespread attention. In the interview, she elaborated on her decision, but this time her explanation was more difficult to comprehend. She told the interviewer that during her years of reporting on public schools, she met other journalists who covered racial inequity, but when she asked them where their children went to school, these journalists sent their children to the best schools. Hannah-Jones accused them of “not living what they were writing,” and she refused to be a journalist who did not live out what she advocated for in print. Unlike her colleagues, Hannah-Jones stated that she did not believe her daughter deserved more than other kids. She said, “I did not test her for talent or gifted. I think she’s smart. I don’t think she is brilliant. I don’t think it matters.” She then added that education is supposed to be “the great equalizer,” but parents have bought into consumer culture, turning education into “something we have to vie for” requiring us to “use our privilege to secure the best advantage” for our children; however, she stated, “I just don’t fundamentally believe in that.” Hannah-Jones also created a mini-documentary about sending her daughter to an underperforming school. She went on to say, “My daughter doesn’t know there’s a class difference between her and her classmates. She will when she gets older … but right now they are just her friends, and that’s the most important thing I can give her.” Last month, Hannah-Jones followed up her 2016 essay with another New York Times Magazine essay called “In Fighting for Every Black Child, Did I Betray My Own?” Hannah-Jones highlighted how her daughter ended up lacking the basic skills necessary to keep up in high school. When her 16-year-old daughter discovered that her mother chose to send her to substandard schools rather than the
best schools her middle-class parents could afford, she demanded to know the logic behind the decision. Hannah-Jones responded, “I felt an obligation to make educational decisions based on the collective good and not just our individual advantage.” Her daughter lamented, “Sometimes I wish instead of always thinking about other kids, you would have thought about me.” Hannah Jones’ recent essay was heavily criticized for obvious reasons, but her fans praised her for putting her principles into practice. Clarence Page, a syndicated columnist, declared, “By sticking her neck out and opening up a very touchy subject for examination, Hannah-Jones has done far more to advance the cause of public education than most of her detractors will give her credit for. May we all match her humility and courage!” Maybe we all should examine what Hannah-Jones did from another field. Suppose she covered healthcare instead of public schools, and her daughter was born with a rare condition that necessitated regular hospitalization during childhood. Now suppose Hannah-Jones reported on the 2017 study produced by the International Journal of Health Services, which found that New York City’s major academic medical centers were significantly segregated by race and insurance status, with Black, Medicaid, and uninsured patients far less likely to receive care at elite hospitals. Suppose Hannah-Jones could have admitted her child to a top hospital but chose not to because she believed that her middle-class status would help improve the quality of care for low-income patients at a subpar facility. Now suppose whenever Hannah-Jones was asked why she decided to put her child in a substandard hospital, she replied, “Because I don’t think my daughter deserves more than other kids,” or “Right now my daughter doesn’t know there’s a class difference between her and the other patients, and that’s the best thing I can give her.” Would anyone in their right mind praise Hannah-Jones for practicing her values, or would they question the validity of the values she practiced?
Time for the Department of Education to stop destroying the dreams of the next generation (TriceEdneyWire.com)—In a video that garnered nearly 2,000,000 views across social platforms, Howard University Dental School student Darian Bogie told his followers how the Big Beautiful Bill, and its new caps on graduate school loans, pushed him out of his dental program. Due to the reach of his story, Bogie was able to surpass his $66,000 fundraising goal on GoFundMe. But for millions of others, the decision is more dire. On July 1st, just over a year after the Big Ugly Bill gutted key government programs to fund tax cuts for the richest among us, the Department of Education issued its new student loan guidance. Under them, the Graduate PLUS, financial aid with higher loan limits to help students pursuing graduate and professional degrees, were eliminated. And new student loan caps took effect that in many cases do not cover the cost of attendance for millions of students. The result is more students either dropping out of college or unable to attend at all. It’s no secret that Black students leverage student loans more than their peers from White families. It’s also no secret that the largest growing population of young people attending college are Black. And make no mistake, it is no coincidence that under this administration, this year, education is becoming further out of reach.
Marc H. Morial
To Be Equal For many, critics of higher education have blamed universities for raising their tuition and fees to figures that have ballooned the federal deficit and left millions burdened with debt that they will never be able to repay. But the solution to skyrocketing student debt shouldn’t be to punish students pursuing a better life. And neither is threatening to strip schools of much needed federal dollars for having diversity pipeline initiatives like this administration is actively trying to do. A discriminatory action that already follows illegal cuts to NIH research funding that that universities, from Harvard to Stanford, have sued to stop. No student should have their dreams deferred because the government would rather finance the dreams of the rich than support them on their education journey. And the federal government should not be allowed to tell someone the value of their dream by denying access to loans because of their major. In the latest slap in the face to America, the Department of Education released a list of college majors that
it proposes cutting student loans that it deems “don’t pay off.” One of which is social work; a growing field that addresses the fallout of growing wealth inequality in our country and the spiking mental health crisis. In short, the Department of Education not only believes solving our greatest social and societal issues doesn’t pay off, by cutting access to jobs that pay a living wage it’s also creating an environment that contributes to them. If education is our tool to change the world, then we need it more than ever in this rapidly changing economy, ecosystem, and geopolitical climate. And it is clear that the Department of Education in this current administration is either blithely unaware of that fact, or intentionally a role in limiting the earning potential and economic freedom of millions of Americans. The National Urban League make a commitment through our programs, like Project Ready, to ensure that all students have an education the prepares them for college, work, and life. Now we’re pushing for the Department of Education to do the same by removing these discriminatory caps on student loans, restoring funding to institutions of higher learning, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and letting students decide what field of study is “worth it.”
The most important vote since slaves were freed Most of us know that when President Lincoln freed the slaves in 1863, the stroke of the pen changed the economics of the South and of this nation. This was followed not only by the passage of the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments to the Constitution, but also by mass election of Negroes (Coloreds, Blacks) to public office. Two Black U.S. Senators were elected from the State of Mississippi, and Blacks were elected to the U.S. Congress. The surge in Black political participation led to the creation of the KKK and the development of States’ Rights, allowing the southern states in particular to pass laws restricting the right to vote with the creation of Poll Taxes, ensuring that only landowners could vote. The fact that freed Black people understood the power of the vote and the need for the right to vote, led to massive Black political participation. By 1901, all Blacks elected to Congress were gone from office until 1921 when Oscar DePreist was elected to
John E. Warren
Commentary Congress from Chicago in 1929. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 ushered in a new wave of Black Political Participation. It helped Fannie Lou Hamer change the Democratic Party in the South; was responsible for the election of local Black elected officials like Mayors, Sheriffs, City Councilmembers, State Legislators and Black members of Congress. If we fail to vote on November 3, 2026, we will once again turn the clock back by allowing the Trump supporters at all levels of government to retain their control of all three Branches of Government, effectively killing democracy as we know it.
The attack on DEI, museums, First Amendment rights, books, and due process, will only increase. If we as individuals vote, we can end Trump’s abuse of power. We can change the Supreme Court, which is now an instrument of Donald Trump on just about everything. If we fail to vote, we could find ourselves back in a segregated society. Remember, what happened in Germany before Hitler, or South Africa with apartheid, did not happen overnight. Your failure to vote could become the next step toward Trump’s Authoritarian America. Once again, the clarion call is for each one to get one to the polls to vote. Remember, this IS the most important vote since Lincoln freed the slaves. Our weapons are: our vote and our dollars. With the two, we can restore and repair that which has been taken. Where do you stand?
(Dr. John E. Warren is Publisher San Diego Voice & Viewpoint Newspaper, Chairman, NNPA Board of Directors)
CLASSIFIED New Pittsburgh Courier
B5
OCTOBER 7-13, 2026
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
LEGAL ADVERTISING Legal Notices
ANNOUNCEMENTS
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Public Notice
Public Notice
NOTICE OF REFERENDUM ELECTION Notice is hereby given pursuant to 53 Pa.C.S. § 2952 that a referendum election will be held in the Borough of Braddock, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania on November 3, 2026, for the purpose of submitting the following question to the qualified electors of the Borough of Braddock:
Estate of DAVIS, EDYTHE LARUE a/k/a DAVIS, E. LARUE (deceased), of Carnegie, PA, No. 06051 of 2026 Stayce Bowen, 2811 Phipps Avenue, Willow Grove, PA 19090, Co-Exec. Charlotte Teasley, 1085 Honu Loop, Aiea, HI 96701, Co-Exec. Stephanie Young, 113 Jonboat Drive, Suffolk, VA 23435, Co-Exec. or to Sheila M. Ford, Esq. 6419 Stanton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Petition to Determine Title to 421 Rosedale Street Rear, Pittsburgh, PA 15221, formerly owned by Frances Young, deceased, Helen Johnson, deceased, filed October 5, 2026, by Mardine Denise Clark, No. 6421 of 2026. Peter B. Lewis, Counsel, Neighborhood Legal Services, 928 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Petition to Determine Title to 6438 Cloverleaf Rd., Verona, PA 15147, formerly owned by Thomas C. Elosser a/k/a Thomas Elosser, deceased, filed October 5, 2026, by Connie Elosser, No. 6420 of 2026. Peter B. Lewis, Counsel, Neighborhood Legal Services, 928 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Petition to Determine Title to 703 Parkview Avenue, North Braddock, PA 15104, formerly owned by Clifford Howell, deceased, filed October 5, 2026, by Lemuel Howell, Sr., No. 6422 of 2026. Peter B. Lewis, Counsel, Neighborhood Legal Services, 928 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222
The Allegheny County Elections Division has prepared the following Explanation of Ballot Question:
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The proposed change to Braddock’s Home Rule Charter would require that Borough Council members attend the 12 regularly scheduled monthly council meetings in order to receive a monthly payment for their service. The ordinance states that some absences may be excused but does not specify what constitutes a valid excuse. Council members currently receive payment regardless of their attendance.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Public Notice
Public Notice
Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell the contents of leased spaces to satisfy Extra Space’s lien at the location indicated: 2016 Lebanon Rd, West Mifflin, PA 15122 on October 21st, 2026 at 11:45am. Timothy Clien B035, Alexa Stephans C204, Tawonda Graciano CC251, Dezah Thomas D606, Doreen Defrancesco D715. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.
Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell the contents of leased spaces to satisfy Extra Space’s lien at the location indicated: 141 N Braddock Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15208 on October 21th, 2026 at 11:00 AM. R & R Elite Services1157A, Tahjeira (Gig) Small-2029, Richard Henry- 3308A. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.
Shall Article 2, Section 204 of the Home Rule Charter of the Borough of Braddock be amended to provide that Borough Council members shall receive compensation on a per-meeting basis based on their attendance at twelve (12) regularly scheduled annual Borough Council meetings subject to excused absences?
Date of Election: November 3, 2026 Polling Hours: Polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Polling Places: The election will be conducted at the following polling locations: - Ward 1: Lundine Apartments Lobby, 125 Corey Ave., Braddock, PA 15104 - Ward 2: Braddock Boro. Bldg., Council Chambers, 415 Sixth St., Braddock, PA 15104 - Ward 3: New Hope Baptist Church, 445 Sixth St., Braddock, PA 15104 All qualified electors registered to vote in the Borough of Braddock as of October 19, 2026, are eligible to vote in this referendum election. For questions regarding the referendum election, please contact: Louis Ransom, Jr. Borough Manager Borough of Braddock 415 Sixth St., Braddock, PA 15104 (412) 271-1018 admin@braddockborough.com Special Election notices will be posted at each polling place on the day of the election.
Petition to Determine Title to 8929 Eastwood Rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15235142020, formerly owned by John Joseph Pruski a/k/a John J. Pruski, deceased, filed October 5, 2026, by Amy J. Lowe, No. 3085 of 2026. Peter B. Lewis, Counsel, Neighborhood Legal Services, 928 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222
PUBLIC NOTICE OPENING OF WAITING LISTS Effective Monday, October 12, 2026, at 8:00 a.m., the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) will be accepting pre-applications online ONLY for the following Project-Based Voucher Site-Based Communities:
Estate of ROSE M. CRISANTI deceased of Shadyside, Estate No:022605528 Caren Grau and James Crisanti, 116 Springbrook Drive, Venetia, Pa 15367, 706 South Aiken Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15232 Extr. or to Caren Grau, 116 Springbrook Drive, Venetia, Pa 15367
• Larimer Pointe - (3-bedroom units only) – 429 Larimer Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206 • Manchester Commons - (1-bedroom units only) - Multiple Addresses in Manchester Community, 15233 • Sandstone Quarry - (3-bedroom units only) – 1660 Sandusky Court, Pittsburgh, PA 15212
Estate of CHARLENE PETRIE, Deceased of Wexford, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, No. 02-26-05463, Erik J. Petrie, Executor, 5087 Red Barn Road, Milton, FL 32583 or to ROBIN L. RARIE, Atty; BRENLOVE & FULLER, LLC., 401 Washington Avenue, Bridgeville, PA 15017
Not all households will be eligible for the specific bedroom size units listed for each of the communities, as the age, gender, relationships and number of household members affect the number of bedrooms for which a household is eligible. Income and eligibility restrictions of the Housing Choice Voucher Program apply. Pre-applications for the above communities will be accepted online ONLY at: www.hacp.org and can be submitted from any computer, laptop or smartphone with internet access. No pre-applications will be accepted before 8:00 a.m., Monday, October 12, 2026. Printed pre-applications will not be available at any of the HACP properties or offices. Position on the waiting list/s will be determined based upon date and time the completed pre-application/s is/are accepted by the on-line system. Persons with disabilities requiring accommodation to submit a pre-application can contact the HACP Disability Compliance Office at: 412-456-5282/ TTY: 711. Additional information is available by contacting the HACP Occupancy Department at: 412-456-5030, or by visiting our website at: www.hacp.org. This event is for Project-Based Vouchers for the specific communities listed above ONLY and is separate from the HACP Housing Choice Voucher and Low-Income Public Housing Programs.
Petition to Determine Title to 148 Conestoga Rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15235, formerly owned by Maria Wilson-Felder, deceased, filed September 11, 2026 by Jermaine Roger Wilson, No. 5873 of 2026. Peter B. Lewis, Counsel, Neighborhood Legal Services, 928 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Petition to Determine Title to 712 12th Street, Pitcairn, PA 15140, formerly owned by Elmer Ellsworth G r a h a m a / k / a E . E . G r a h a m , deceased, filed September 11, 2026 by Penny Rae McCann, No. 5886 of 2026. Peter B. Lewis, Counsel, Neighborhood Legal Services, 928 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222. Petition to Determine Title to 340 Church Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15210, formerly owned by Loomus Richardson, Sr, deceased, filed April 28, 2026, by Loomus Richardson, Jr, No. 2817 of 2026. Gayle R. Kraut, Neighborhood Legal Services, 928 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222, Counsel. A hearing on the Petition is scheduled for October 15, 2026 at 1pm before the Judge Evashavik in Ct rm #3, 1700 Frick Bldg, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Petition to Determine Title to 1500 Wood Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15221, formerly owned by Elsie Betty Boyd, deceased, filed August 31, 2026, by Deborah A. Jefferson, No. 5610 of 2026. Peter B. Lewis Counsel, Neighborhood Legal Services, 928 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222. Estate of ROBERT A. ZOVKO, SR. deceased of Brentwood, Pennsylvania, File No.: 02-2605846, Gregory A. Zovko, Executor or to DJ Nichols, Atty, 6 Clairton Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15236 Estate of MS. SARAH ELIZABETH TABELLA, Deceased, 66 Dunn Street, McKees Rocks, PA 15136, No. 02-26-05980, Mr. Laurence J. Tabella, Administrator, c/o Feldman Law Group, 1322 5th Avenue, Coraopolis, PA 15108 Estate of LINDA ROWE KEEBLER, Deceased of Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, No. 02-26-05896, Lindsay Fallon Keebler, Administrator, or to AUBREY H. GLOVER, Atty; BRENLOVE & FULLER, LLC., 401 Washington Avenue, Bridgeville, PA 15017 Estate of ALBERT F. KAMPER, deceased of the Ross Township, Pennsylvania, File No.: 02-26-05584, Andrew C. Kamper, Executor or to Gregory W. Bevington, Atty, 310 Grant Street, Grant Building, Suite 1102, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Estate of LAWRENCE R. FARRELL deceased of McKees Rocks, Estate No. 0222605813 of 2026, Arlene Wiedmann Extr., 119 Kearns St., Imperial, PA 15126 or to Anthony T. Floro, Esq., Airport Professional Bldg., 7411 University Boulevard, Moon Township, PA 15108 Estate of RUTH COLLINS, deceased of the Ohio Township, Pennsylvania, File No.: 0225-07108, Sean R. Hogan, Executor or to Gregory W. Bevington, Atty, 310 Grant Street, Grant Building, Suite 1102, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Estate of JEFFREY T. COLLINS, deceased of the Ohio Township, Pennsylvania, File No.: 02-26-5438, Sean R. Hogan, Executor or to Gregory W. Bevington, Atty, 310 Grant Street, Grant Building, Suite 1102, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
SONNY BOY
PUBLIC NOTICE CLOSING OF WAITING LISTS Effective Friday, October 16, 2026, at 3:00 p.m., the HACP will close the following Project-Based Voucher Program waiting lists: • City’s Edge • Elmer Williams Square • Hillcrest Senior Residences • Lemington Senior Housing • Skyline Terrace • The Reed Senior Housing – (1-bedroom) No pre-applications will be accepted for these waiting lists after the closing date and time. Public Notice will be provided when the HACP determines to reopen these specific waiting lists. Effective Friday, October 16, 2026, at 3:00 p.m., the HACP will close the following community waiting list: • Christopher Smith Terrace No pre-applications will be accepted for this waiting list after the closing date and time. Public Notice will be provided when the HACP determines to reopen this specific waiting list. OFFICIAL WILKINSBURG BOROUGH NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Borough Council of the Borough of Wilkinsburg will consider adopting Ordinance # 26-003 at the regular meeting of Borough Council held on November 4, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. at 605 Ross Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15221 with a public hearing on this matter on 10/21/26 at 6 PM at the same location. ORDINANCE # 26-003 AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOROUGH OF WILKINSBURG, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, TO INCREASE THE EARNED INCOME TAX RATE FROM 1% TO 2% FOR RESIDENTS AND FROM 0% TO 1% FOR NON-RESIDENTS COMMENCING JANUARY 1, 2027 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2027 AND CONTINUING IN EFFECT FOR EACH YEAR THEREAFTER, UNLESS OTHERWISE REVISED BY ORDINANCE OF THE WILKINSBURG COUNCIL.
The complete text may be examined daily during regular business hours in the Office of the Borough Manager. PUBLIC NOTICE The Wilkinsburg Finance Committee will hold a public information meeting on the proposed earned income tax increase on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers (2nd Floor), 605 Ross Ave., Wilkinsburg, PA 15221.
Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell the contents of leased spaces to satisfy Extra Space’s lien at the location indicated: 1212 Madison Ave, Pittsburgh PA 15212, on 10/21/2026 @ 1:30pm. For Xavier James 1026, Samantha Payne 2022, Gregory Covington 4020, Crystal Watts 6031, and OhsobeautifulEventPlanning 6068. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Extra Space Storage, on behalf of itself or its affiliates, Life Storage or Storage Express, will hold a public auction to sell the contents of leased spaces to satisfy Extra Space’s lien at the location indicated: 111 Hickory Grade Road Bridgeville PA 15017, October 21, 2026, at 12:30 PM. Alexis Trout 3222. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.
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Extra Space Storage, on behalf of its affiliates, Life Storage or Storage Express, will hold a public auction to sell the contents of leased spaces to satisfy Extra Space’s Lien at the location indicated: 3200 Park Manor Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15205 on October 21, 2026 at 1:00 pm. 2053 Dorrian Glenn; 3312 Natalya Smarra. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Extra Space Storage will be holding a public auction to sell the contents of leased spaces to satisfy Extra Space’s lien at the location indicated: 700 E. Carson St., Pittsburgh, PA 15203 on October 21, 2026 at 12:15pm. 4086 Craig Thomas. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell the contents of leased spaces to satisfy Extra Space’s lien at the location indicated: 880 Saw Mill Run Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15226 on October 21, 2026 at 1:15pm. Sam Parker 1047, Felicia Austin 1081, Crystal Rogers 1092, Kelly Brandt 1100, Shatera Linnen 2168. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase up until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Extra Space Storage, on behalf of itself or its affiliates, Life Storage or Storage Express, will hold a Public Auction to sell the contents of leased spaces to satisfy Extra Space’s lien at the location indicated: 902 Brinton Road Pittsburgh PA 15221. October 21, 2026 at 11:30am. For Carol Simek 2046, Tanequa Jackson 1119, Modesty Jones 3094, Latisha Abram 3105, Desirea Jones 3251 and Keith Brockman 2109. The auction will be advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Extra Space Storage will hold a public auction to sell the contents of leased spaces to satisfy Extra Space’s lien at location indicated: 6400 Hamilton Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15206, October 21, 2026 at 1:45pm. Shanice Saunders-2129, Seazon Ponti-Drummond-3040, DeAnna Bennerman-3058, Tanesha Taylor-L034. The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be paid with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property.
AVALON BOROUGH ADVERTISEMENT 2018 FordMakatura, Police Interceptor Borough ofExplorer Avalon Secretary Lorraine
The Council of the Borough of Avalon, at its September 15, 2026, meeting, authorized the sale of a 2018 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor via public auction. The auction runs from 6:00 p.m. on Friday, October 2, 2026, through 6:00 p.m. on Friday, October 16, 2026. Interested parties can view the listing at www.municibid.com, Listing #86187037. At the conclusion of the auction, the vehicle will be awarded to the highest bidder, provided the reserve price is met. The municipality reserves the right to reject any or all proposals. The vehicle is being sold as is, where is, with no warranties, express or implied. For questions or to schedule a time to inspect the vehicle, please contact Dale Regrut, Superintendent, Avalon Borough Department of Public Works at (412) 761-5959 or dregrut@boroughofavalon.org.
AVALON BOROUGH ADVERTISEMENT 2018 FORD EXPLORER POLICE INTERCEPTOR The Council of the Borough of Avalon, at its September 15, 2026, meeting, authorized the sale of a 2018 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor via public auction. The auction runs from 6:00 p.m. on Friday, October 2, 2026, through 6:00 p.m. on Friday, October 16, 2026. Interested parties can view the listing at www.municibid.com, Listing #86187037. At the conclusion of the auction, the vehicle will be awarded to the highest bidder, provided the reserve price is met. The municipality reserves the right to reject any or all proposals. The vehicle is being sold as is, where is, with no warranties, express or implied. For questions or to schedule a time to inspect the vehicle, please contact Dale Regrut, Superintendent, Avalon Borough Department of Public Works at (412) 761-5959 or dregrut@boroughofavalon.org. Borough of Avalon Lorraine Makatura, Secretary NOTICE Notice is hereby given that on October 13, 2026, at 7:00 o’clock PM at the Braddock Borough Municipal Building, 415 6th Street, Braddock, Pennsylvania, the Council of the Borough of Braddock, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania will act on an Ordinance which requires apartment buildings and multifamily residential properties containing three or more dwelling units to provide and maintain one dumpster. The following is the Title of the complete body of the ordinance: OFFICIAL BOROUGH OF BRADDOCK ALLEGHENY COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE OFTHE BOROUGH OF BRADDOCK, ALLEGHENY COUNTY,PENNSYLVANIA REQUIRING APARTMENT BUILDINGS AND MULTIFAMILY RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES CONTAINING THREE OR MORE DWELLING UNITS TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN ONE DUMPSTER, ESTABLISHING FINES AND PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS, AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE THEREOF. The general public can provide comments as to the content of the proposed codification at the public hearing at the time and place set forth in this Notice.
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OCTOBER 7-13, 2026
ANNOUNCEMENTS Public Notice
NOTICE Notice is hereby given that on October 13, 2026, at 7:00 o’clock PM at the Braddock Borough Municipal Building, 415 6th Street, Braddock, Pennsylvania, the Council of the Borough of Braddock, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania will act on an Ordinance which establishes security and public safety requirements for qualifying special events and requires special event permit applicants and permit holders to submit proof of adequate security for qualifying special events. The following is the Title of the complete body of the ordinance:
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OFFICIAL BOROUGH OF BRADDOCK ALLEGHENY COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOROUGH OF BRADDOCK, ALLEGHENY C O U N T Y, P E N N S Y LVA N I A ESTABLISHING SECURITY AND PUBLIC SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR QUALIFYING SPECIAL EVENTS, REQUIRING SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT APPLICANTS AND PERMIT HOLDERS TO SUBMIT PROOF OF ADEQUATE SECURITY, ESTABLISHING FINES AND PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS, AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE THEREOF. The general public can provide comments as to the content of the proposed codification at the public hearing at the time and place set forth in this Notice. NOTICE Notice is hereby given that on October 13, 2026, at 7:00 o’clock PM at the Braddock Borough Municipal Building, 415 6th Street, Braddock, Pennsylvania, the Council of the Borough of Braddock, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania will act on an Ordinance which establishes hours of operation for Clara Davis Friendship Park and prohibits the unauthorized presence and leaving, storing, placing, or abandoning of personal property at Clara Davis Friendship Park during closed hours. The Ordinance in its entirety will be on display in the Borough of Braddock’s Municipal Building and shall be available for view during normal business hours. The following is the Title of the complete body of the ordinance: OFFICIAL BOROUGH OF BRADDOCK ALLEGHENY COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOROUGH OF BRADDOCK, ALLEGHENY C O U N T Y, P E N N S Y LVA N I A E S TA B L I S H I N G H O U R S O F OPERATION FOR CLARA DAVIS FRIENDSHIP PARK, PROHIBITING UNAUTHORIZED PRESENCE AND THE LEAVING, STORING, PLACING, OR ABANDONING OF PERSONAL PROPERTY D URING CL O S E D HO UR S , ESTABLISHING FINES AND PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS, AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE THEREOF. The general public can provide comments as to the content of the proposed codification at the public hearing at the time and place set forth in this Notice. LEGAL ADVERTISING Bids/Proposals
OFFICIAL ADVERTISEMENT OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PITTSBURGH ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Sealed proposals shall be deposited at the Administration Building, Bellefield Entrance Lobby, 341 South Bellefield Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, until 2:00 P.M., local prevailing time, for: 2027-2028 Service and Maintenance Contracts at Various Schools, Facilities, and Properties 1. Districtwide Boiler, Burner, and Furnace Inspection, Maintenance, and Repair Services 2. Districtwide Concrete Maintenance and Repair Services 3. Districtwide Extraordinary Electrical Maintenance 4. Districtwide Vertical Transportation Systems Preventive Maintenance and Repair Services 5. Districtwide Extraordinary General Maintenance 6. Districtwide Extraordinary Masonry Maintenance 7. Districtwide Plumbing Systems Maintenance, Service, and Repair 8. Districtwide Central Chiller and Refrigeration Systems Maintenance and Repair 9. Districtwide Extraordinary Roofing Maintenance 10. Districtwide Security and Low Voltage Systems Maintenance and Service Project Manuals and Drawings will be available for purchase beginning Monday, September 21, 2026, at Modern Reproductions (412-488-7700), 127 McKean Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, between 9:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. The cost of the Project Manual Documents is non-refundable. Project details and dates are described in each Project Manual. CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS!
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Bids/Proposals
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PORT AUTHORITY OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY D.B.A. PITTSBURGH REGIONAL TRANSIT “PRT” Electronic Proposals will be received online at PRT’s Ebusiness website (http://ebusiness.rideprt.org). Proposals/bid submittals will be due 11:00 AM on October 7, 2026, and will be read at 11:15 AM., the same day, through your web browser via Microsoft Teams video conferencing, for the following: Electronic Proposal - Ebusiness website (http://ebusiness.rideprt.org) Bid Number
Bid Name
1
B26-09-56
Magnetic Track Brake Suspension Replacement Parts-LRV
2
B26-09-57
Brake Drums - Coach
3
B26-09-58
Diesel Engine Oil
4
B26-09-60
5 B26-09-59
CRP - Air Dryer Cartridges Voith Transmission Rebuild Kits
No bidder may withdraw a submitted Proposal for a period of 75 days after the scheduled time for opening of the sealed bids. To join the bid opening through Microsoft Teams meeting on your computer, mobile app or room device Meeting ID: 275 428 445 359 835 Passcode: p8Nh966H Or call in (audio only) 412-927-0245 Phone Conference ID: 242 899 822# No bidder may withdraw a submitted Proposal for a period of 75 days after the scheduled time for opening of the sealed bids. A Pre-Bid Conference will be held for each of the above items at 10:00 AM on September 22, 2026, through your web browser via Microsoft Teams video conferencing. Attendance at this meeting is not mandatory but is strongly encouraged. Join on your computer, mobile app or room device Meeting ID: 256 374 235 197 412 Passcode: qY7DK6Xa Or call in (audio only) 412-927-0245 Phone Conference ID: 111 830 114# Questions regarding any of the above bids will not be entertained by the PRT within five (5) business days of the scheduled bid opening. These contracts may be subject to a financial assistance contract between Port Authority of Allegheny County d.b.a. PRT and the United States Department of Transportation. The Contractor will be required to comply with all applicable Equal Employment Opportunity laws and regulations. Contractor is responsible for expenses related to acquiring a performance bond and insurance where applicable. All items are to be FOB delivered unless otherwise specified. Costs for delivery, bond, and insurance shall be included in bidder’s proposal pricing. Port Authority of Allegheny County d.b.a. PRT hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively insure that in regard to any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, disadvantaged business enterprise will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, or national origin in consideration for an award. The Board of PRT reserves the right to reject any or all bids. INVITATION FOR BID FOR NITROGEN GENERATOR REPLACEMENT The Sports & Exhibition Authority of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County (SEA) is soliciting bids for nitrogen generator replacement for the David L. Lawrence Convention Center (DLCC). Bid documents may be obtained by going to https://planroom. accu-copy.com/projects/public A Non-Mandatory Pre-Proposal Meeting will be held at 10:00 A.M. on October 9, 2026. at the DLCC East Lobby. Bids are due at 2:00 P.M. on October 20, 2026. Additional information is available at https://planroom.accu-copy.com /projects/public.com or by contacting Morgan Schmitt, procurement@ pgh-sea.com.
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OFFICIAL ADVERTISEMENT THE BOARD OF PUBLIC EDUCATION of the SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PITTSBURGH Sealed proposals shall be deposited at the Administration Building, Bellefield Entrance Lobby, 341 South Bellefield Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pa., 15213, on October 20, 2026, until 2:00 P.M., local prevailing time for:
LEGAL ADVERTISING
LEGAL ADVERTISING
Bids/Proposals
Bids/Proposals
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS ALLEGHENY COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA OCTOBER 02, 2026 Office of the County Controller of Allegheny County, Room 104, Court House, Pittsburgh, PA., will receive separate and closed Bids until 11:30 A.M. prevailing local time, Wednesday, October 28, 2026 through the proprietary platform of the third party vendor Bonfire eProcurement Solution, and a representative of the Department of Public Works will open and read the Proposals in the Conference Room 505A, County Office Building, 542 Forbes Avenue Pittsburgh, PA., 15219, at 11:30 A.M., for the following: DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS DELAFIELD ROAD AT STA 32+00 PROJECT COUNTY PROJECT NO: 2097-0003 O’HARA TOWNSHIP As a prospective bidder please note the following general Project information regarding Pre-Bid Information, Bidding Requirements, and Contract Conditions. See the Project Manual and Drawings for detailed information, responsibilities, and instructions. PRE-BID INFORMATION: View the Proposal, Specifications and Drawings on Bonfire eProcurement’s website https://alleghenycountydpw.bonfirehub.com/opportunities/256029. The Proposal, Specifications and Drawings may also be viewed at the Office of the Contract Manager, Room 504, County Office Building, Pittsburgh, PA. BIDDING REQUIREMENTS: The County requires pre-qualification of bidders, including subcontractors, as specified in Section 102.01 of Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Specifications, 408/2026, Current Change of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, on this project. Submit bid on the supplied Bid Forms in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders and General and Supplementary Conditions; include the following documents with the Bid Form, PROPOSAL: • Bid Security - certified check or surety company bond on County’s form to the order of/or running to the County of Allegheny in the amount of five (5%) percent of the Bid as evidence that you, the Bidder, will accept and carry out the conditions of the Contract in case of award. The County will accept only bonds written by Surety Companies acceptable on Federal Bonds per the current Federal Register Circular 570. Federal Register Circular 570 is available for inspection in the Contract Office, Room 504, County Office Building, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. • Bidder Certification of Pre-Qualification, Classification and Work Capacity. • List of Subcontractors • Statement of Joint Venture Participation • MBE and WBE Goals Attainment Certification - (ONLY NECESSARY IF YOU CAN NOT MEET THE SPECIFIED MBE AND WBE GOALS) • Work Sheet Required Amount Performed by Contractor (Non-Federal Project) • MBE/WBE Subcontractor and Supplier Solicitation Sheet MBE/WBE Subcontractor and Supplier Commitment Sheet THE COUNTY WILL REJECT BIDS THAT DO NOT INCLUDE THE EXECUTED DOCUMENTS SPECIFIED ABOVE WITH THE BID FORM. You may not withdraw your bid for a period of Sixty (60) days after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids. The County Manager reserves the right to reject any and all bids or waive any informalities in the bidding. CONTRACT CONDITIONS: In accordance with the provisions of the “Pennsylvania Prevailing Wage Act” of August 15, 1961, P.L. 987, as Department of Labor and Industry, the prevailing minimum wage predetermination requirements as set forth in the Attachments apply to this Project. For technical questions, contact Ken Urbanec, Project Manager, at 412350-1278. For contract related questions, contact the Contracts Division, at 412-350-7646. Project completion is to occur by October 15, 2027. The County of Allegheny County hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, minority business enterprises / women business enterprises [MBE/WBE] will be afforded the full opportunity to submit bids on the grounds of race, sex, color or national origin in consideration for an award. It is a condition of the bidding process/contract that all responsive bidders/ contractors shall follow the minority business enterprises/women’s business enterprises [MBE/WBE] procedures set forth in the project manual/ contract documents. Amy Weise Clements Acting Controller County of Allegheny
Pgh Sterrett Classical Academy, Pgh Science & Technology Generator Replacement Abatement Prime Project Manual and Drawings will be available for purchase on September 18, 2026, at Modern Reproductions (412-488-7700), 127 McKean Street, Pittsburgh, Pa., 15219 between 9:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. The cost of the Project Manual Documents is non-refundable. Project details and dates are described in each project manual. Pgh Public Schools Central Operation and Food Kitchen Building Commissioning of Switchgear Replacement Commissioning Authority Project manual for Commissioning of Switchgear Replacement will be available via the District website (www.pghschools.org ) or by email request to mcollinswood1@pghschools.org on September 18, 2026, Project details and dates are described in project manual.
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LEGAL ADVERTISING
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Help Wanted
ALLEGHENY COUNTY SANITARY AUTHORITY LEGAL NOTICE CONTRACT NO. 1820 PRIMARY SEDIMENTATION TANK E-4 Sealed Bids for CONTRACT NO. 1820 – Primary Sedimentation Tank E-4 shall be received at the Engineering Department office of the Allegheny County Sanitary Authority, 3300 Preble Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15233, until 11:00 A.M., Prevailing Time, Thursday, February 4, 2027, and then shall be publicly opened and read. A Pre-Bid Meeting will be held in the Alcosan Auditorium and Microsoft Teams on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 11:00 A.M., Prevailing Time. A link will be required to access the Teams meeting. If interested in obtaining a link to the Pre-Bid Meeting, contact Jacqueline Kresen via email at Jacqueline. kresen@alcosan.org. ALCOSAN encourages businesses owned and operated by minorities and women to submit bids on Authority Contracts or to participate as subcontractors or suppliers to successful Bidders. Successful Bidders are to use minority and women’s businesses to the fullest extent possible. Contract Documents may be examined and obtained at the Engineering office of the Authority.A non-refundable fee of One hundred dollars ($100) (no cash or credit cards will be accepted) will be charged for each set of Contract Documents received. Bid Security shall be furnished by providing with the Bid a Certified Check or Bid Bond in the amount of 10% of the Bid Price. Contract documents must be purchased directly from ALCOSAN to qualify as an eligible bidder. Any questions regarding the Contract Documents should be directed to Stephanie Downs, Michael Baker Intl, via email at stephanie.downs@mbakerintl.com Any questions regarding the Purchase of Bidding Documents should be directed to TylerTrainor, ALCOSAN, via email at contract.clerks@alcosan.org. The Authority reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to waive any informality in any bid and to accept any bid should it be deemed in the interest of the Authority to do so.
Aurora Operations, Inc. seeks Sr Safety Data Scientist in Pittsburgh, PA to support autonomous vehicle safety programs. Email CV to jobs@aurora.tech Ref# 00522.
ALLEGHENY COUNTY SANITARY AUTHORITY Kimberly Kennedy, P.E. Director of Engineering and Construction
Job requirements include: • High school diploma or GED. • Associate’s degree or 2 years of college in business or related field from an accredited college or university. Related experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis. • Minimum of three (3) years’ experience in handling claims and investigations in either workers compensation or general liability in the last 10 years and compiling and reviewing medical records. No required certifications or licenses. • Valid PA driver’s license. • P r o f e s s i o n a l a n d e ff e c t i v e communication skills. • Demonstrated ability in the use of Windows and Word.
ALLEGHENY COUNTY SANITARY AUTHORITY LEGAL NOTICE CONTRACT NO. 1845 The Allegheny County Sanitary Authority is soliciting Bids for CONTRACT NO. 1845 – Furnish and Deliver Lime. Proposals will be received until 11:00 A.M., Prevailing Time, Thursday, October 29, 2026, at the office of the Authority and then shall be publicly opened and read via Microsoft Teams Meeting. Contact Judith Shropshire for Invitation to Bid Opening Teams Meeting at contract.clerks@alcosan.org. ALCOSAN encourages businesses owned and operated by minorities and women to submit bids on Authority Proposals or to participate as subcontractors or suppliers to the successful bidders. Successful Bidders are to use minority or women’s businesses to the fullest extent possible. Documents pertaining to the submission of Bids are available at the Engineering office of the Authority, 3300 Preble Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15233. Bid Security is required and shall be furnished by providing with the Bid a Certified Check or Bid Bond in the amount of $1,000.00. Any questions regarding the Technical Specifications should be directed to Benjamin J. Heilman, Contract Supervisor, ALCOSAN, via email at benjamin.heilman@alcosan.org. Any questions regarding the Contract Bidding Documents should be directed to Judith Shropshire, ALCOSAN, via email at contract.clerks@alcosan.org. The Authority reserves the right to reject any or all bids; to waive any informality in any bid and to accept any bid should it be deemed in the interest of the Authority to do so. ALLEGHENY COUNTY SANITARY AUTHORITY Benjamin J. Heilman Contract Supervisor
WORKERS COMPENSATION SPECIALIST Pittsburgh Regional Transit is seeking a Workers Compensation Specialist to investigate work-related injuries/disabilities by collecting and compiling information gathered from internal and external s o u rc e s fo r Po rt A u thori ty of Allegheny County d/b/a Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT). Review factual evidence and prepare information necessary to determine the acceptance, denial, termination, modification, or suspension of workers’ compensation benefits; provide case management from the initial filing of a claim through return to gainful employment or settlement. Reviews claim information to identify compliance conditions for acceptance, denial, termination, modification, or suspension of workers’ compensation benefits; corresponds with employee to explain determination and claim status. Essential Functions: • Investigates facts and information regarding employee work-related injuries and disabilities by interviewing employees through a telephone conversation, at the employee’s home, or in the Workers’ Compensation office; interviewing witnesses, medical providers, attorneys, and others to determine nature and degree of injury and/or disability; completes required forms and investigation reports. (Such work requires operation of company vehicle and qualification on PRT Right-of-Way.) • Reviews claim information to identify compliance conditions for acceptance, denial, termination, modification, or suspension of workers’ compensation benefits; corresponds with employee to explain determination and claim status. • Provides case management services; assumes responsibility for managing the claims to closure, including determining the need for medical management, vocational rehabilitation, surveillance, etc., as needed, and tracking cases on a timely basis.
OCTOBER 7-13, 2026
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THE NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER NOW HAS A PODCAST...! OUR GOAL IS TO INFORM AND EDUCATE OUR COMMUNITY ABOUT THE RELEVANT ISSUES HAPPENING IN THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH.
IN EPISODE FIVE, FOUNDATION OF HOPE CEO REV. DR. LAWANA BUTLER SAYS HER ORGANIZATION VOWS TO ASSIST AND POSITIVELY IMPACT THOSE AFFECTED BY THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM.
SCAN THE QR CODE BELOW TO HEAR REV. DR. LAWANA BUTLER’S COMMENTS.
Preferred attributes: • Bachelor’s degree in business administration, human resource management or related field from an accredited college or university. • Interviewing skills. • Accident investigation experience. • Ability to use Excel, Access, and Claims Management Software.
(Annual Salary $69,200 - $103,800)
We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Interested candidates should forward a cover letter (with salary requirements) and resume to: Glenn Huetter Employment Department 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 GHuetter@RidePRT.org EOE
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NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
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OCTOBER 7 - NOVEMBER 3, 2026 GENREAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
League of Women Voters’ Guide to General Election Election Day: November 3, 2026 (Polls open from 7 AM to 8 PM)
This Voters’ Guide was prepared by the League of Women Voters of Greater Pittsburgh and the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania Citizen Education Fund. The League of Women Voters is a non-partisan organization and does not support or oppose any political party or candidate. Nothing in this guide should be construed as an endorsement of any candidate by the League of Women Voters. Its purpose is to promote political responsibility through informed and active participation of citizens in government.
The Voters’ Guide listings are based entirely on material submitted by the candidates. In cases in which questionnaires were not returned, only the candidate’s name and party are listed. Every candidate was asked to submit a photograph; those received are printed. The guide lists all candidates in the November 3, 2026, General Election for • US House of Representatives • PA Governor • PA Lieutenant Governor • PA State Senators • PA State Representatives • Ballot question for Allegheny County Use the guide to help you choose which candidates to vote for. You may take the guide into the voting booth to help you. Voting in the 2026 Geneal Election To vote in the General Election you must be registered by 5PM on October 19, 2026. If you have moved, changed your name, or wish to change your political party before the election, you need to update your registration by October 19. If you have not voted in a few years, your registration may be “inactive”. Re-register by October 15 or update your status at your polling location when you go vote to make your registration active.
Registration Questions? Go to pavoterservices.pa.gov and choose “Find Voter Registration Status”, or call the Allegheny County Elections Division, 412350-4510 to: • • •
Check your voter registration status Find out what district you live in Locate your polling location
For more information, visit lwvpgh.org/register Re-Entering and Incarcerated Citizens’ Voting Rights Unless you are currently being held for a felony on Election Day, you can register and vote. Identification Requirements for New Voters If you are a new voter or if you are voting at a polling place for the first time, you must bring your voter ID card or a photo ID such as a • • • • •
PA driver’s license, PennDOT ID, US Passport or some other form of Federal or State government-issued ID. Some forms of non-photo ID are also acceptable such as • your voter registration card from the County. • a firearm permit, • current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, or government check showing your name and home address.
If you do not have any acceptable ID, you must be allowed to vote by provisional ballot. See www.lwvpgh.org/in-person for more information on voting at your polling place. Election Day Problems and Provisional Ballots 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 may
telephone the County Elections Division at 412-350-4500. The problem could be resolved by phone if your name appears on the county records. Alternatively, you can ask for and vote by provisional ballot. Anyone may request a 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 your vote was counted. If you experience or observe voter intimidation at your polling place, call the Election Protection hotline. 1-866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683) 1-888-VE-Y-VOTA (en Espanol) (888-8398682) 1-301-818-VOTE (National Association of the Deaf Hotline (301-818-8683) Absentee Voting and Mail-in Voting Registered voters who are ill, disabled, or will be absent from the municipality on Election Day may vote by absentee ballot. All voters have the option to vote by mail without providing any reason or excuse. To apply online, go to vote.pa.gov OR contact the county election office to request a paper application. Applications for a mail-in ballot or absentee must be received by the Allegheny County Elections Division by October 27, 2026 at 5pm. Completed mail-in ballots must be received by the Elections Division by November 3, 2026 at 8pm Election Day to be counted. If an emergency arises (unexpected illness or business trip) after the Tuesday application deadline, call the Elections Division 412-350-4500 for information on emergency absentee voting. Proof of emergency may be required. An emergency application and ballot can be obtained and voted by 8pm on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Any disabled voter having questions regarding the accessibility of a polling place should consult the Elections Division at 412-350-4500.
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER GENERAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
Over the Counter Voting and Satellite Offices Pennsylvania does not offer true ‘early voting’ like some other states. However, voters can vote early “Over the Counter” by completing a mailin ballot application, marking the ballot, and returning it, all in one visit. Allegheny County will host satellite offices throughout the county with secure ballot drop and “over the counter” voting. Refer to the schedule to the right for specific dates and times. You may NOT return a ballot for anyone else, even someone in your household, (unless that voter has a disability and designates an agent in writing.) For individuals requiring assistance in voting or returning a ballot, contact the Allegheny County Elections Division at 412-350-4500.
Internet Voters’ Guide This Voters’ Guide and other useful information for voters can be found on the League’s web site at lwvpgh.org or can be found by going to www.vote411.org and typing in your home address and zip code. Published by League of Women Voters of Greater Pittsburgh 1800 Murray Ave. #81040 412-261-4284 In conjunction with New Pittsburgh Courier October 7, 2026 Prepared with funding from: League of Women Voters Education Fund, Pittsburgh Foundation, Muck Charitable Foundation, Goldin Foundation and individual donations to the League of Women Voters of Greater Pittsburgh
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NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER GENERAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
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WHY VOTE in the “Midterm” 2026 Federal and State Elections??
Have you noticed the push and pull between Federal and State governments? This consequential midterm election will determine the MAJORITY AND MINORITY BALANCES IN BOTH THE US CONGRESS AND PA GENERAL ASSEMBLY! Vote the whole ballot because many national problems are solved by state governments.
If you sit out, SOMEONE ELSE will decide for you!
VOTE!!!
EVERY ELECTION COUNTS. YOU COUNT! www.vote.pa.gov
Who has the Power? THE PEOPLE have the power when they VOTE! And it’s the legislation passed by members elected to the US Congress and the PA General Assemblythe legislators who can have a more direct impact on our lives! Remember that the majority party in the US Senate can confirm Supreme Court judges!
Choose the best candidates for the US Congress. This election will decide what Federal laws are written on big issues like Taxes, Civil Rights, Voting Rights, Immigration, Climate, Tech & AI, Healthcare, and Infrastructure. (No US Senators from PA this election.) US Representatives for Pennsylvania (ALL 17)
Strong STATE governments protect STATE rights! Your rights! Majority and Minority balances in the PA General Assembly will be decided.
CLAIM YOUR POWER!
CLAIM YOUR POWER!
CLAIM YOUR POWER!
ISSUES, ISSUES, ISSUES! What do YOU care about? State officials make rules and laws about how Federal dollars are spent and write the laws that affect your everyday issues like elections, workers rights, reproductive rights, fair housing, gun safety, taxes, education, healthcare.
Warning! Between AI, foreign countries, and bad actors, voters will be flooded with misand disinformation like never before. Learn more at lwvpgh.org/disinfo Don’t let cynicism or thinking “they are all bad” stop you from your right to vote!
In 2026, research all of the candidates on your ballot to find the candidates who have the power to positively impact your life!
CLAIM YOUR POWER!
CLAIM YOUR POWER!
PA Governor PA Lt. Governor PA Senators (25 of 50) PA Representatives (All 203)
PRIMARY is May 19 GENERAL is NOV 3
CLAIM YOUR POWER VOTE!
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OCTOBER 7 - NOVEMBER 3, 2026 GENREAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
HOW TO PICK A CANDIDATE Nonpartisan Info Here
2023 League of Women Voters of Greater Pittsburgh
See Through the IMAGES
Check Out the SO RCES
Did the IMAGE trigger anger or fear, without giving information? Used name-calling, spread rumors? Ignored the real issues by blaming or promising unrealistic solutions? Glitter or substance?
Be smart about media polls and group ratings. What is the source? Was there a representative sample? WHO sponsored the poll? WHEN and HOW were the questions asked? How long ago?
Rate the CA I ATE Candidate available to voters? Debate or forums? Campaign ads/website give clear information on issues and solutions? Candidate's qualifications? Voting record?
Now, PICK A CANDIDATE 1. Figure out what ISSUES are most important to you. 2. Decide what CHANGES your community, state, country need most. 3. Does this candidate support your issues? Offer realistic solutions? 4. Compare your candidate choices--their histories and backgrounds. Look at the source of a candidate's funding. Listen to people on both side of an issue.
5. NOW DECIDE! You may not find a candidate who aligns with ALL of the issues that are important to you. Consider what to trade off to get what you want.
Nonpartisan CANDIDATE information for voters: The League of Women Voters of Greater Pittsburgh: at www.lwvpgh.org and www.Vote411.org, Other resources: www. allotpedia.org, Committee of 70 at www.seventy.org , and for Judges, Pennsylvanians for Modern Courts, at www.pmconline.org
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OCTOBER 7 - NOVEMBER 3, 2026 GENREAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
Federal Races
US HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES The US Constitution requires that the House of Representatives be composed of Representatives from each state, elected in proportion to population. There are 435 members of the House of Representatives, with 17 Representatives allotted to Pennsylvania after the 2020 census. A US Representative must be at least 25 years old, have been a citizen of the United States for the past seven years, and be a resident of the state they seek to represent at the time of the election (though not necessarily the same district). The House of Representatives is responsible for introducing and voting on bills, resolutions and amendments, and for approving the budget. Representatives also serve on various policy committees. The House may send Articles of Impeachment of elected officials to the Senate and elects the President if there is a tie in the Electoral College. Term: 2 years Salary: $174,000 Vote for ONE. US Representative - Pennsylvania District 12 The 12th district includes all of the City Pittsburgh, parts of Allegheny County (including Braddock, Homestead, and McKeesport), and parts of Westmoreland County.
Q: What do you see as the role of Congress in oversight of the executive branch? A: Congress has a constitutional duty to provide real oversight of the executive branch. That means holding the administration accountable, investigating abuses of power, demanding transparency, and making sure no president acts like they are above the law. It is one of the clearest ways we protect democracy and defend the people from corruption, cruelty, and unchecked power. As a member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, I take that responsibility seriously. Oversight should be about exposing corruption, defending civil rights, preventing corporate influence from capturing our government, and making sure public institutions are serving the people, not billionaires, not special interests, and not any one man’s ego. Q: What role should Congress play regarding foreign policy and international relations? A: Congress has a critical role to play in foreign policy and international relations, especially when it comes to questions of war and peace. The power to declare war belongs to Congress, not to one person in the Oval Office acting without accountability. Washington has found endless money for war while people here at home are struggling to survive. Congress must reassert its authority through measures like the War Powers Resolution, provide real oversight, and pursue a foreign policy rooted in diplomacy, human rights, and peace. Working people should not have to keep footing the bill for endless war while billionaires and defense contractors profit. Q: What legislative changes, if any, are needed to make healthcare more accessible and affordable? A: We need transformational change, not half measures. Health care is a fundamental human right, and no one should lose access to care because of their job, their income, their immigration status, a preexisting condition, or because they aged off a parent’s insurance.
Candidates on the Ballot: • •
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Summer Lee (D) James Hayes (R)
That is why we need Medicare for All. A single-payer system would save people money and save lives by eliminating premiums, deductibles, and copays, while guaranteeing comprehensive coverage for everyone. We also need to take on Big Pharma and make sure drug companies can’t keep exploiting people when they are at their most vulnerable. Summer Lee Party: Democratic County: Allegheny Campaign Website: summerforpa.com Occupation: U.S. representative for Pennsylvania’s 12th Congressional District Education: Graduate of Woodland Hills High School (2005), Bachelors of Arts in journalism with minors in international studies and French from Pennsylvania State University (2009), Juris Doctor from the Howard University School of Law (2015) Qualifications: Served in the PA House of Representatives from 2019-2023, Worked as a field organizer for the PA Dem Party in 2016 Facebook: facebook.com/SummerForPA nstagram: instagram.com/summerleeforpa/ X Handle: @SummerForPa
James Hayes Party: Republican County: Allegheny Campaign Website: jameshayesforpa.com
SUMMER LEE
Q: What are the most pressing issues facing your district and our country, and how would you address them? A: The biggest issue facing our district and this country is that our government has been bought and paid for by billionaires and corporate interests. And until we deal with that, we are going to keep fighting the same battles over and over again. Why is housing still unaffordable? Why is health care treated like a luxury? Why are parents struggling to afford child care while our kids are still not safe in their schools? Too many people in power are serving wealthy donors, corporate lobbyists, and special interests instead of the working people who sent them there. So yes, people are hurting in a lot of ways, but the root issue is who has power. And I’m in this fight to take that power back and put it where it belongs: with the people.
Occupation: Chief Financial Officer Education: B.S.F.S., Georgetown University; M.P.A., Princeton University; M.B.A., University of Chicago; D.B.A., Case Western Reserve University Facebook: facebook.com/jameshayesforpa nstagram: instagram.com/jameshayesforpa X Handle: @jameshayesforpa
JAMES HAYES
Q: What are the most pressing issues facing your district and our country, and how would you address them? A: Western Pennsylvania needs an economy that rewards work, safe communities, affordable energy and a government focused on results. I would work to lower taxes and unnecessary regulatory burdens, expand American energy production, strengthen manufacturing and supply chains, secure the border, and support law enforcement. We must also improve educational opportunities and make healthcare more affordable. My experience in manufacturing, finance and business has taught me that good policy must work in the real world. I will work across party lines when possible to create greater opportunity and a stronger future for Western Pennsylvania. Q: What do you see as the role of Congress in oversight of the executive branch? A: Congress has both the constitutional authority and responsibility to conduct vigorous oversight of the executive branch, regardless of which party controls the White House. Members should ensure that laws are faithfully executed, taxpayer dollars are properly
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER GENERAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
spent, agencies operate within the authority Congress has granted them, and misconduct is investigated. Oversight should be fact-based rather than used simply for partisan theater. Congress must also defend its own constitutional responsibilities instead of transferring important decisions to presidents or unelected agencies. Effective oversight promotes accountability, transparency and public confidence in government. Q: What role should Congress play regarding foreign policy and international relations? A: Congress has a central constitutional role in foreign policy, including decisions involving war, spending, trade and international agreements. America should pursue peace through strength -- maintaining a capable military, supporting allies, protecting American workers and supply chains, and confronting threats from hostile governments and terrorist organizations. I strongly support Israel’s right to exist and defend itself and believe the United States should strengthen relationships with democratic allies in Europe and the Indo-Pacific. Diplomacy should always be pursued where it can advance American interests, but our commitments must be credible and our policies must put America’s security first. Q: What legislative changes, if any, are needed to make healthcare more accessible and affordable? A: Healthcare reform should focus on lowering costs and expanding choices without putting Washington between patients and their doctors. Congress should promote competition and price transparency, expand access to health savings accounts and affordable coverage options, address prescription drug costs, strengthen rural and community healthcare, and remove barriers to telehealth and innovative care. We should protect people with preexisting conditions and strengthen Medicare for seniors. I oppose replacing the current system with a government-run single-payer system. The goal should be better care at lower cost, with patients and families — not government bureaucracies — making healthcare decisions.
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But the rot runs deeper than Donald Trump. Billionaires and big corporations have been ripping away the American Dream for decades and spending big in elections to get politicians to do their bidding. We must beat back this corruption and restore the American Dream so that your hard work delivers the good life. Q: What do you see as the role of Congress in oversight of the executive branch? A: Congress has a deep responsibility under our Constitution to conduct oversight of the executive branch and to investigate wrongdoing. Donald Trump and his family and friends are making money off his Presidency. It’s corrupt stuff, and yet the Republican-dominated Congress has done nothing to put a stop to this plundering of the public. That must change. Q: What role should Congress play regarding foreign policy and international relations? A: Let’s be clear: Trump’s failed Iran War has cost American and civilian lives, cost us billions of dollars, and jacked up prices at home. This war also reportedly depleted precious munitions supplies, weakening our military readiness. Congress and the American people decide when we send our brave Americans to war, not the President. While Republicans in Congress have refused to reel in this administration’s reckless decisions, I will keep fighting to end this war and bring our troops home. I’m a member of the House Armed Services Committee, which has refused to conduct meaningful oversight under Republican leadership. That must change, and Secretary Pete Hegseth will have to explain his failures to the committee and the American people.
Q: What legislative changes, if any, are needed to make healthcare more accessible and affordable? A: Republican politicians and President Trump passed their “One Big Beautiful Bill” that took away healthcare from nearly 200,000 Pennsylvanians, all to pay for tax giveaways US Representative - Pennsylvania District 17 to the richest, most powerful people and corporations while adding nearly $5 trillion to The 17th district includes all of Beaver County (Aliquippa, Ambridge, Baden, Beaver, the debt. Beaver Falls, Bellevue, Sewickley, Cranberry (part), and parts of Allegheny County (including but not limited to Scott Twp, Crafton, Ross Twp, Coraopolis, Bellevue, Tarentum, Congress should reverse these healthcare cuts, extend the ACA tax credits that Republicans killed, and finally reform our healthcare system. Healthcare monopolies that Franklin Park, Wexford, Shaler, Oakmont and Penn Hills.) control your insurance, your doctor, and your pharmacy are a big part of the problem, and America spends more for worse health outcomes than nearly every other advanced Candidates on the Ballot: country. I refuse to accept treating healthcare as a luxury in the richest nation in history • Chris Deluzio (D) and support proposals like Medicare for All. • Tony Guy (R) Chris Deluzio
Tony Guy Party: Republican -no response-
Party: Democratic County: Allegheny Campaign Website: chrisforpa.com Occupation: Member of Congress Education: Bishop Canevin High School, United States Naval Academy, Georgetown Law Qualifications: Currently serving as our Congressman in Pennsylvania’s 17th Congressional District. Facebook: facebook.com/ChrisforPA Instagram: www.instagram.com/chrisforpa X Handle: @chrisforpa Q: What are the most pressing issues facing your district and our country, and how would you address them? A: In Western PA, like the rest of the country, the cost of everything is skyrocketing and outpacing paychecks. From healthcare to housing to youth sports, hard working families are being priced out. President Trump has made it worse with trade wars and a failed Iran War jacking up prices on gas, groceries, and so much else.
CHRIS DELUZIO
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OCTOBER 7 - NOVEMBER 3, 2026 GENREAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
State Races
PENNSYLVANIA GOVERNOR The Governor is the chief executive officer of the Commonwealth, executing the laws of the state through executive agencies. A Governor must be at least 30 years old and have been a US citizen and resident of the state for seven years preceding the election. S/he manages the financial affairs of the state and must annually present a balanced budget to the General Assembly. The Governor has extensive appointive powers, may recommend legislation, and signs or vetoes bills passed by both houses of the General Assembly (subject to 2/3 override). S/he is Commander-in-Chief of the state National Guard, except when they are called into the actual service of the United States. The Governor can grant reprieves, pardons, and paroles. The holder of this office may only be reelected once. Term: 4 years Salary: $253,870 Vote for ONE. Candidates on the Ballot: • • •
Josh Shapiro (D) Stacy Garrity (R) Ken Krawchuk (L)
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Josh Shapiro Party: Democratic County: Montgomery Campaign Website: joshshapiro.org Occupation: Governor of Pennsylvania Education: University of Rochester, BA; Georgetown University Law Center, JD Qualifications: Governor of Pennsylvania, who is fighting every day to Get Stuff Done and protect real freedom in our Commonwealth. Facebook: facebook.com/JoshShapiroPA nstagram: instagram.com/joshshapiropa/ X Handle: @JoshShapiroPa
JOSH SHAPIRO
Q: Whare are the most pressing issues facing Pennsylvania residents, and how would you address them? A: II’ve met with Pennsylvanians on our farms, in our cities, and everywhere in between, and I’ve found that most people want the same key things: good schools, safe communities, good-paying jobs, and their freedoms protected. As Governor, I’ve worked hard to get stuff done on these pressing issues — cutting taxes ten times, securing over $41 billion in private-sector investment, creating over 25,000 good-paying jobs, delivering historic public education funding, and improving public safety by supporting law enforcement and violence prevention programs — but there’s more work to do, and I’m going to keep fighting to ensure all Pennsylvanians have the freedom to chart their own course and the opportunity to succeed here in our Commonwealth. Q: What are your specific ideas on the funding for public school, private schools, and cyber charter schools to comply with the Commonwealth Court’s order? A: I believe in our obligation to ensure our kids have access to a thorough and efficient public education. We’ve brought Democrats and Republicans together to invest a record amount in public education and created a new formula that drives that money out to the schools that need it most. With these investments, schools have served over 224 million free breakfasts, 3,000 more students are enrolled in career and technical education courses, the number of new teacher certifications is increasing, and regular attendance and graduation rates are up. I’m committed to continuing to build on that progress and delivering for all Pennsylvanians. Q: What do you see as the state’s role regarding federal immigration policy? A. I have been clear that our country needs comprehensive immigration reform in order to have a secure border, a more clear, efficient, orderly immigration process, a path to citizenship for people who have been living here lawfully, and to protect public safety. That is far from what we are seeing from Donald Trump – who has violated constitutional rights and brought chaos to communities across this country. When the Trump Administration secretly purchased warehouses in Pennsylvania to convert them into ICE detention centers, I stood with local leaders and residents to successfully block that acquisition. I will continue to protect public safety in our Commonwealth while standing up to reckless federal policies that harm our communities Q: What would you do to ensure Pennsylvania elections are accessbile and secure? A: Our elections are free, fair, safe, and secure – and I’m continuing to protect the security of our elections and our democracy in the face of threats from Donald Trump and his allies. I’m proud to have appointed Al Schmidt as Secretary of State – and since taking office, we’ve kept our elections secure and strengthened voting rights by implementing automatic voter registration, redesigning mail-in ballots to reduce errors and support county election workers, launching an easy-to-use online ballot request tool, and providing voter resources in multiple languages. I have always stood up for our democracy – and I am going to continue to protect our elections and the right to vote. Stacy Garrity Party: Republican County: Montgomery Campaign Website: garrityforpa.com Occupation: Pennsylvania State Treasurer Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Bloomsburg University Qualifications: 30 year U.S. Army Reserve Veteran with three Combat Deployments (Col., Ret.) | Former VP at Global Tungsten & Powders Facebook: facebook.com/GarrityForPA Instagram: instagram.com/stacyforpa/ X Handle: @GarrityForPA
STACY GARRITY
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER GENERAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
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Q: Whare are the most pressing issues facing Pennsylvania residents, and how would $24,000 compared to only $11,000 for a typical private school. you address them? The solution? Privatize our schools. Government funding totals about $11,500 per child, but A: Pennsylvania families are being squeezed by higher energy bills, failing schools, rising instead of sending it to the school districts, just send it directly to each child as a voucher. Parcrime, and a government that spends too much while delivering too little. My goals are sim- ents then have full school choice and can send their children to whatever school they prefer ple: make life affordable again, give every family real school choice, keep our communities or homeschool them. As the school districts are being phased out, their assets can be sold safe, and restore fiscal responsibility in Harrisburg. That means unleashing Pennsylvania to private schools. School property taxes would no longer be needed, and can simply vanish! energy to lower utility bills, empowering parents’ on matters of their children’s education, Details at KenK4Pa.com/education standing with law enforcement, and cutting wasteful spending so the next generation inherits opportunity – not debt. As Treasurer, I returned more than $1 billion to Pennsylvanians. As Q: What do you see as the state’s role regarding federal immigration policy? Governor, I’ll bring that same results-driven leadership to Harrisburg. A. The states have absolutely no role regarding immigration policy. The governor has no authority to enforce any federal law, and therefore cannot legally attempt to do so. Conversely, if Q: What are your specific ideas on the funding for public school, private schools, and the governor should attempt to interfere with the enforcement of any federal law, they would cyber charter schools to comply with the Commonwealth Court’s order? be subject to arrest. The Supremacy Clause of the federal constitution is quite clear: When it A: Every Pennsylvania child deserves access to a great education – no matter their ZIP comes to any federal law, the governor can neither usurp nor hinder the federal government’s code. That means giving families the freedom to choose the school that best meets their authority. Only a lawbreaker would attempt either one. child’s needs, whether that is a public, charter, cyber, or private school. Strong public schools are essential because they are the backbone of our communities and a gateway to oppor- Q: What would you do to ensure Pennsylvania elections are accessbile and secure? tunity for Pennsylvania children, but my focus will always be on students and results – not A: Elections can be made much more secure in many ways: on protecting failing systems. As Governor, I will fight to ensure that parents – not Harrisburg 1) Most importantly, ID should be required for citizens to vote. bureaucrats– choose the school that is best for their children, that education dollars follow 2) Mail-in ballots must be abolished; not only because they’re the easiest way to scam an students instead of systems, and that every school is held accountable for its results. election, they also violate our state constitution’s strict rules for absentee ballots. 3) Out-of-state political contributions put a thumb on the scales of Pennsylvania elections and Q: What do you see as the state’s role regarding federal immigration policy? should be banned. A. IImmigration enforcement is primarily a federal responsibility, but Pennsylvania has an 4) Term limits are a no-brainer, and should apply to ALL elected offices. obligation to protect its communities and uphold the rule of law. As Governor, I will ensure 5) Gerrymandering can be stopped via Precinct-Preserving Splitline Districting. state agencies fully cooperate with federal authorities when it comes to violent criminals, drug 6) Empower voters to vote both FOR candidates they like and AGAINST candidates they trafficking, and human trafficking. Pennsylvania should never be a sanctuary for those who don’t like with Approve/Approve/Disapprove Voting. break our laws. The state’s role is to keep communities safe, prevent taxpayer resources from 7) Read more at KenK4Pa.com/elections being misused, and partner with federal officials where public safety is at stake. Q: What would you do to ensure Pennsylvania elections are accessbile and secure? A: Pennsylvanians deserve elections that are easy to participate in and impossible to doubt. I support strong voter ID requirements, accurate voter rolls, chain-of-custody protections for ballots, timely counting, and consistent administrative standards across all 67 counties. We should expand access for eligible voters through clear rules, early preparation, and welltrained local election officials, while also cracking down on fraud, noncitizen voting, and administrative loopholes. One illegal vote is one too many. My goal is simple: every legal vote counted, every illegal vote stopped, and every voter confident the system is fair. Ken Krawchuk Party: Libertarian County: Montgomery Campaign Website: kenk4pa.com
The Lieutenant Governor will be elected jointly with the Governor in the General Election although candidates are nominated separately in the Primary. A Lieutenant Governor must be at least 30 years old and have been a US citizen and resident of the state for seven years preceding the election. S/he is President of the Senate, presiding over the Senate but having no vote unless the Senate is equally divided. S/he is Chair of the Board of Pardons and the PA Emergency Management Council. The PA Constitution provides that in case of the death, conviction or impeachment, failure to qualify, resignation, or other disability of the Governor, the powers, duties, and compensation of the office shall be transferred to the Lieutenant Governor for the remainder of the term or until the disability is removed. There are no term limits to this office. Term: 4 years Salary: $213,248 Vote for ONE.
Occupation: Entrepreneur Education: BS Physics; Graduate of the Abington Citizens Police Academy Qualifications: Student of the Pennsylvania Constitution; President of Amendment 16 Ltd., a 35-year-old Information Technology consulting firm; Patented inventor; Professional public speaker; Distinguished Toastmaster, Husband; Father; Grandfather Facebook: facebook.com/KenK4Pa Instagram: instagram.com/KenK4Pa/ X Handle: @KenK4Pa
PENNSYLVANIA LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR
Candidates on the Ballot: • • •
Austin Davis (D) Jason Richey (R) John Thomas (L)
KEN KRAWCHUK
Austin Davis Party: Democratic County: Allegheny Campaign Website: davisforpa.com
Q: What are the most pressing issues facing Pennsylvania residents, and how would you address them? A: Aside from our failing schools, the most pressing issue facing Pennsylvania is taxation. The cost of government has been rising at more than 3 times the rate of inflation for over 50 years, but when I’m elected, that trend will end. I promise to veto all tax increases, and use the line item veto to eliminate all unconstitutional, special interest, and pork barrel spending.
Occupation: Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from the University of Pittsburgh Qualifications: From serving as a State Representative to now as the current Lieutenant Governor, Austin Davis is delivering real results for all Pennsylvanians and will continue But THE worst tax is the property tax. Seniors risk being foreclosed out of their homes. First- working to move our Commonwealth forward. time buyers struggle to afford a home at all. And every homeowner faces an eternal mort- Facebook: facebook.com/AustinDavisPA/ gage they can never pay off. Property tax must be eliminated, starting with the oppressive, nstagram: instagram.com/austindavispa/ ever-rising school tax. Details at KenK4Pa.com/education X Handle: @AustinDavisPA Q: What are your specific ideas on the funding for public school, private schools, and cyber charter schools to comply with the Commonwealth Court’s order? A: The PA Constitution mandates “thorough and efficient” schools, but they’re neither. Testing shows that most kids can’t read or do math at grade level, and the average cost per child is
AUSTIN DAVIS
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OCTOBER 7 - NOVEMBER 3, 2026 GENREAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
producer. This growth will lower energy costs and generate new revenue to reduce taxes, especially property taxes to lower housing costs. By connecting energy policy to tax relief, we Q: What are the most pressing issues facing Pennsylvania residents, and how would can create jobs and make Pennsylvania more affordable. you address them? A: We’re focused every day on building a good education for our kids, safer communities, Q: What are your specific ideas on the funding for public school, private schools, and economic opportunity, and protecting Pennsylvanians’ rights and freedoms. I’m proud of the cyber charter schools to comply with the Commonwealth Court’s order? work the Governor and I have done to deliver real results for all Pennsylvanians on these A: A child’s future should not be determined by their address. The Commonwealth Court’s critical issues – creating thousands of good-paying jobs, attracting over $40 billion in pri- order is an opportunity to create a fair, student-centered funding system. I support increasing vate-sector investment, cutting taxes seven times, investing our schools, and supporting both public school funding through a weighted formula that prioritizes low-income students, Encommunity-based violence intervention programs and state and local law enforcement. I’m glish learners, and special education needs. I also support expanding school choice through committed to fighting for all Pennsylvanians – and we are going to keep working to create real charter and cyber options, and by pursuing federal school choice opportunities alongside a opportunity for our families to get ahead and be able to live the American dream right here in Pennsylvania Scholarship Program that empowers parents with direct access to funding. our Commonwealth. Dollars should follow students, with clear accountability for results. No system should receive automatic funding without performance. Parents, not bureaucracies, should drive educationQ: What are your specific ideas on the funding for public school, private schools, and al decisions. cyber charter schools to comply with the Commonwealth Court’s order? A: Since taking office, we have increased K-12 funding by nearly 30 percent and implement- Q: What do you see as the state’s role regarding federal immigration policy? ed an adequacy formula to drive investments to schools in the most need. Governor Shapiro A. The federal government sets immigration policy, but the state has a clear responsibility to and I are making sure Pennsylvania students are set up to succeed everyday with safe, protect public safety and enforce the law. Pennsylvania should not be a sanctuary for those healthy learning environments — providing universal free school breakfast, hiring mental who commit crimes or undermine public safety. State and local law enforcement should fully health counselors, and investing in school safety. We are building upon our cyber charter cooperate with federal authorities in identifying, detaining, and removing individuals who are school reforms to ensure students have regular, engaged contact with teachers online — in the country illegally and have committed violent crimes or other serious offenses. At the saving schools districts millions in the process. I know that when we invest in education, we same time, we should ensure resources are focused on securing communities, supporting invest in the future of our children, which is why we will keep building on these investments victims, and maintaining order. A safe immigration system requires clear rules, consistent to support our students. enforcement, and no tolerance for criminal activity that puts Pennsylvania families at risk. Austin Davis, candidate for Lt. Governor continued...
Q: What do you see as the state’s role regarding federal immigration policy? A. Keeping our communities safe is our number one priority – but the federal government and their recklessness across the country has manufactured fear and chaos, making that work harder. Here in Pennsylvania, Governor Shapiro and I have worked to invest in law enforcement and violence prevention programs to build trust and build safer communities – and while we have been clear that we need a secure border and comprehensive immigration reform, we do not need the Trump Administration’s chaos in our Commonwealth. We will continue to stand up to it while we work to keep Pennsylvanians safe and move our Commonwealth forward. Q: What would you do to ensure Pennsylvania elections are accessbile and secure? A: Pennsylvania’s elections are free, fair, safe, and secure – and together with Governor Shapiro, we have defended the integrity of our elections and Pennsylvanians’ right to vote so that all eligible voters can exercise that fundamental right. Since taking office, we have taken steps to strengthen voting rights and decrease voter errors here in the Commonwealth by implementing automatic voter registration, re-designing mail-in ballots, and working closely with local elections officials to support their work. While the federal government attacks the sanctity of our elections, Governor Shapiro and I will continue to stand up and protect our democracy and Pennsylvanians’ freedom to make their voices heard and ensure their votes are counted. Jason Richey Party: Republican County: Allegheny Campaign Website: richeyforpa.com/ Occupation: Attorney Education: Allegheny College, BA (Economics/Political Science Double Major); The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law, JD. Qualifications: Growing up in Aliquippa, I saw the impact of economic decline & learned the value of hard work. I became a 3-time NCAA Academic All-American at Allegheny College. I worked in a steel mill through law school. Over a 30-year legal career, I’ve led high-stakes cases & teams across major industries. Facebook: facebook.com/JasonRicheyforPA Instagram: instagram.com/RicheyforPa/
Q: What would you do to ensure Pennsylvania elections are accessbile and secure? A: Pennsylvanians deserve elections they can trust completely. I will help ensure both accessibility and security by supporting voter ID requirements, regular maintenance of voter rolls, and strict chain-of-custody standards for ballots. We should also establish uniform election administration rules across all 67 counties so every voter is treated equally. Every eligible voter must have a clear, accessible path to cast a ballot, including early voting, while every safeguard must ensure only legal votes are counted and results are accurate and timely. The standard is simple: it should be easy to vote and hard to cheat. John Thomas Party: Libertarian County: Armstrong Campaign Website: KenK4PA.com Occupation: Educator Education: BA in Political Science / Pre-Law; BS in Education Qualifications: I am not qualified to run your life. But I am the only Lt. Gov. candidate in the race who recognizes that about himself. Facebook URL: facebook.com/people/John-Thomas-for-Lieutenant-Governor/100090842456490/ X Handle: https://x.com/JohnThomasPA JOHN THOMAS Q: What are the most pressing issues facing Pennsylvania residents, and how would you address them? A: Pennsylvania is shedding young people. People are moving to states where they see more opportunities and better affordability. By making Pennsylvania the state with the best educational system in the country (by cutting government, rather than growing it) and cutting regulations that stifle innovation and job growth, we can keep Pennsylvanians in the state.
JASON RICHEY
Our education plan includes eliminating school-related property taxes that make housing unaffordable to families. It encourages families to make decisions that build their capital, allowing young people to enter adulthood with educational and monetary capital that will make them more competitive in our changing economy. This will allow families to stay and grow here in PA.
Q: What are your specific ideas on the funding for public schools, private schools, and cyber charter schools to comply with the Commonwealth Court’s order? A: We would close all government schools. We know that monopolies create less innovation and are less efficient than competitive markets. Yet we impose a near-monopolistic system on something as vital to our community as education. Rather than shuffling money Q: What are the most pressing issues facing Pennsylvania residents, and how would through bureaucrats and having them decide which schools are worth funding, we would you address them? send the funding directly to parents. This will introduce competition and innovation into the A: The most pressing issue facing Pennsylvanians is affordability. Families are struggling educational landscape in Pennsylvania and significantly reduce spending, allowing us to with rising energy costs, high taxes, and housing costs. Pennsylvania sits atop the Marcellus eliminate educational property taxes entirely. Shale, one of the largest natural gas reserves in the world, yet it has not been fully leveraged to benefit our citizens. I will expand responsible natural gas development, streamline permit- Each family would receive $11,500 per student for education. This is far less than the ting related to drilling and infrastructure, and position Pennsylvania as a world leading energy $24,000 we spend now, but about the average cost of non-elite private education in PA.
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER GENERAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
Q: What do you see as the state’s role regarding federal immigration policy? A: Immigration is a federal issue. However, there are some things we can do to encourage the right type of immigration to Pennsylvania. We could consider the pull factors that encourage people to move to an area. We want immigrants who will contribute to our economy. We want immigrants who will be productive and not consume more resources than they contribute. Therefore, we can encourage productive immigration and discourage unproductive immigration by ensuring that no government assistance is provided to immigrants. Those immigrants who are confident in their ability to be productive members of society will move here. Those who are looking for free handouts will choose other states in which to reside. Q: What would you do to ensure Pennsylvania elections are accessible and secure? A: Some view elections as a balancing act between ensuring that only legitimate votes are counted and preventing voter disenfranchisement from overburdensome regulations. We need to recognize that those are the same goals. Every legitimate vote that is offset by an illegal vote disenfranchises a voter. We should have commonsense voter laws, such as a simple voter ID, in place. A voter ID law is not overly burdensome. We already require ID to practice many of our rights as citizens. We require ID when we get a new job. We require an ID to purchase many items. We require ID to sign legal documents. We require ID to purchase a firearm. These are all rights we have as citizens, and few people object to the requirement of ID to exercise them.
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transparent, investing in students and first responders, lowering everyday costs for families, and holding corporations accountable for driving up prices on utilities and groceries. I am working towards a transparent system that fully and fairly funds our children’s education and ensures that every student has a safe and welcoming learning environment. I have championed investments in infrastructure, water and sewer projects, community pools and parks, and cultural arts institutions. I am seeking another term in office because there is so much more to do to advance these issues and I would like to continue that work. Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections? A: I have long been an advocate for expanding pre-canvassing of mail in ballots as just one of the things we can do to increase the faith the public has in our elections. I maintain that our elections continue to be free, fair, and safe, despite the rhetoric of recent years. I will be introducing a package of legislation to strengthen, protect, and modernize Pennsylvania’s Election Code. This package includes targeted reforms designed to increase transparency, combat false information, and support the people who keep our elections secure. You can learn mor about that bill package here: https://senatorlindseywilliams.com/senator-lindsey-m-williams-to-introduce-election-security-legislation/
Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? A: One of my primary projects in Harrisburg has been to bring transparency to the voters. The budget process is usually anything but transparent and I will continue my advocacy efPENNSYLVANIA STATE SENATOR forts - like my demystifying Harrisburg series - to shed light on it and show people how they View video messages from these candidates at lwvpgh.org/PAcandidates can engage with the budget process. I would like to see the four caucuses and the administration meet earlier and more frequently in the budget negotiation process. It is my hope that The General Assembly is the legislative branch of government in Pennsylvania. It is com- we can flip the state senate this year and rather than delaying the budget for political reasons, posed of two houses: the Senate is the upper house, and the House of Representatives we can build an on-time budget that works for the people of Pennsylvania and invests in is the lower house. A majority vote in both houses is necessary to pass a law. The PA education, infrastructure, and healthcare. Senate consists of 50 members, representing one district each, with an equal number of constituents. Senators must be at least 25 years old, have been a citizen and a resident Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or of the state four years and a resident of their respective districts one year before their land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation election, and shall reside in their respective districts during their terms of service. The of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities Senate develops budget packages, makes taxation decisions, allocates spending, and to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? passes laws (including redistricting in collaboration with the House of Representatives). A: The state should enact laws to set the standards and uphold the constitutional right of In addition, the Senate tries officials impeached by the House and authorizes executive all Pennsylvanians to clean air and pure water in the development of data centers. That appointments. Senators serve on various policy committees that may propose legislation. legislation should be done in a way that does not undermine or circumvent a local zoning process. I have a data center going into a community in my district and one challenge we are seeing is that it directly borders another municipality, which has had no direct input on the Term: 4 years data center. I have authored legislation, SB 724, that requires a robust community benefits Salary: $113,591 agreement with input from neighboring communities, requires data centers to pay their fair share for infrastructure upgrades, to pay into consumer assistance programs, and prioritizes Vote for ONE. renewable energy. Thomas West Pennsylvania State Senator - District 38 The 38th State Senate district contains East Deer, Fawn, Frazer, Hampton, Harmar, Harrison, Indiana, McCandless, O’Hara, Pine, Richland, Ross, Shaler, Springdale and West Deer, Aspinwall, Blawnox, Brackenridge, Cheswick, Etna, Fox Chapel, Sharpsburg, Springdale, Tarentum and West View, and several neighborhoods in the City of Pittsburgh including Highland Park, Morningside, Belmar, Garfield, East Liberty and Lincoln-Lemington. Candidates on the Ballot: • •
Lindsey Williams (D) Thomas West (R) Lindsey Williams
Occupation: Business Owner Education: BS in Communications Qualifications: Thomas West brings real world experience as a long time news producer and small business owner. Thomas understands accountability, communication, budgeting, job creation and the challenges families face -- and is focused on practical solutions for the community. Facebook: facebook.com/westforpa/?rdid=47PodXqwj2JfpnHi Instagram: instagram.com/westforpa
THOMAS WEST
Q: What are the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them? A: The biggest issues facing our district are affordability, public safety, and economic opportunity. Families are being squeezed by higher costs for groceries, utilities, housing, and health care, while small businesses face growing pressure too. I would focus on practical solutions: responsible spending, support for family-sustaining jobs, workforce development, infrastructure, and policies that help small businesses grow. State government should focus less on political theater and more on delivering results people can actually feel in their daily lives.
Party: Democratic Campaign Website: lindseyforpa.com Occupation: Attorney / Legislator Education: Dickinson College, Duquesne University Law Qualifications: I have a depth of knowledge and experience in this position backed by a record I am very proud of. Facebook: facebook.com/LindseyForPA/ Q: What are the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them? A: As a State Senator, I have prioritized the rights of workers, making government more accessible and
Party: Republican Campaign Website: westforpa.com
LINDSEY WILLIAMS
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Thomas West, Candidate for PA State Senator - District 38 continued... Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections? A: I support a commonsense approach to elections: make it easier for eligible citizens to vote and harder for anyone to undermine confidence in the process. I support better training and recruitment for poll workers, and more consistent election rules across counties. I also support reasonable safeguards that protect ballot integrity without making voting harder for lawful voters. I would be open to allowing earlier pre-canvassing of mail in ballots if there was a mechanism in place that could ensure the security and integrity of that process. Election laws should improve access, strengthen confidence, and help election officials do their jobs efficiently and fairly. Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? A: Pennsylvania’s budget process is too often delayed by last-minute negotiations and political gridlock. That creates uncertainty for schools, local governments, nonprofits, employers, and taxpayers. I support a more transparent and disciplined process, including earlier negotiations, clear deadlines, and stronger accountability when leaders fail to act on time. I am also open to structural reforms, including discussion of a biennial budget cycle. Families and businesses have to plan responsibly and meet deadlines, and state government should be expected to do the same. Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? A: Yes, I support reasonable state standards addressing the impact of large data centers on water use, energy demand, and infrastructure. Pennsylvania should set clear baseline protections so growth does not come at the expense of communities or ratepayers. At the same time, the state should not erase local control. Municipalities must retain meaningful authority under the Municipal Planning Code to address zoning, siting, traffic, noise, and compatibility with surrounding uses. The right approach is a balance of statewide safeguards and local decision-making.
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections? A: In Pennsylvania, elections are conducted by the counties, with support from the Pennsylvania Department of State. Our counties have done a great job to ensure our elections have been free and fair. Unfortunately, the Trump Administration continues to threaten to interfere with this year’s election by sending ICE agents to our polling places. I am confident that Governor Shapiro will take legal action if federal troops or ICE agents are dispatched to polling places because that would clearly violate federal and state laws against voter intimidation. Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? A: Pennsylvania is the only state in the country with a split legislature. Disagreement can be healthy for our democracy and yield better results for all of our constituents. But disagreement can also lead to procedural paralysis, and that can result in budgets delayed for extended periods, like what happened last year. It is important to begin communicating and meeting early in the process, and I am pleased to see that is already happening this budget year. Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? A: Yes, I support the Governor’s proposals for purposeful and thoughtful data center permitting and siting standards. However, I do not support state-level preemption of municipal planning efforts. Communities must be able to make those decisions themselves without political interference from Harrisburg.
PENNSYLVANIA STATE REPRESENTATIVE
View video messages from these candidates at lwvpgh.org/PAcandidates Pennsylvania State Senator - District 42 The 42nd State Senate district contains Kennedy Township, Mount Lebanon, Neville Township, Reserve, Scott Township, Stowe, Avalon, Bellevue, Ben Avon, Carnegie, Crafton, Dormont, Emsworth, Green Tree, Ingram, McKees Rocks, Millvale, and several neighborhoods in the City of Pittsburgh including Perry North, Northside, Manchester, Perry Hilltop, Allegheny Center, Sheridan, Corliss, Elliot, Duquesne Heights, Mt. Washington, Beechview, Banksville, West Liberty, Brookline, Summer Hill, City View, Northview Heights, Spring Garden, Spring Hill, Troy Hill, Lawrenceville, Downtown, the Strip District, the Lower Hill, and the Bluff. Candidates on the Ballot: •
Wayne D. Fontana (D)
The General Assembly is the legislative branch of government in Pennsylvania. It is composed of two houses: the Senate is the upper house, and the House of Representatives is the lower house. A majority vote in both houses is necessary to pass a law. The PA House of Representatives consists of 203 members representing one district each, with an equal number of constituents. Representatives must be at least 21 years old, have been a citizen and a resident of the state four years and a resident of their respective districts one year before their election, and shall reside in their respective districts during their terms of service. The House develops budget packages, makes taxation decisions, allocates spending, and passes laws (including redistricting in collaboration with the Senate). The House also has the exclusive authority to impeach public officials. Representatives also serve on various policy committees that may propose legislation. Term: 2 years Salary: $113,591
Wayne Fontana
Vote for ONE.
Party: Democratic Campaign Website: votefontana.com Occupation: State Senator Education: Community College of Allegheny County, Associate’s Degree in Business Qualifications: Held the seat since 2005 X Handle: @votefontana Q: What are the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them? A: I hear often from my constituents about how property taxes are inconsistent, inequitable, and unfair.
State Representative - District 19 The 19th Legislative district contains several neighborhoods in the City of Pittsburgh including Downtown, the Lower Hill, the Bluff, South Oakland, parts of the South Side, Beltzhoover, Knoxville, Allentown, Glenwood, Glen Hazel, the Northside, Manchester, Perry Hilltop, Woods Run, Northview Heights, Perry South and Summer Hill. WAYNE FONTANA
Pennsylvania is the only state in the country that does not reassess on a standard, cyclical basis. This dysfunctional system has created a situation in which fifty-four of our sixty-seven counties have not completed a reassessment in fifteen years or more, including ten counties that have not reassessed in 48 years. That is why I introduced Senate Bill 567, that would require every county reassess once every five years. Every other state has figured out how to do this and we need to fix this to make our property taxes more consistent and fairer to taxpayers.
Candidates on the Ballot: •
Aerion Andrew Abney (D) Aerion Andew Abney Party: Democratic -no response-
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER GENERAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
State Representative - District 21
The 20th Legislative district contains Ross Township, Avalon, West View, Bellvue, and the Perry North neighborhood in the City of Pittsburgh.
The 21st Legislative district contains Reserve Township, Shaler Township, Etna, Millvale, and several neighborhoods in the City of Pittsburgh, including City View, Spring Hill, Spring Garden, Troy Hill, Lawrenceville, and the Strip District.
Candidates on the Ballot: • •
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State Representative - District 20
Candidates on the Ballot:
Emily Kinkead (D) Joseph Aguglia (R)
•
Lindsay Powell
Emily Kinkead Party: Democratic -no response-
Party: Democratic Campaign Website: lindsaypowellforpa.com/ Occupation: State Representative Education: Wheaton College (BS), Carnegie Mellon University (MS)
Joseph Aguglia Party: Republican Campaign Website: joeagugliaforstatehouse20.com Occupation: Senior Legal Compliance Director Education: Law Degree JD Duquesne Law School, Bachelors Degree in Political Science, Minor History Qualifications: Former Assistant District Attorney, Human Relations Director Q: What are the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them? A: Pennsylvania has a housing crisis. Property taxes are sky high due to local municipalities not being able to balance a budget. Many citizens who have worked their whole lives to own their own home now face a sheriff or tax sale of their home. As such, I would advocate for property tax reform.
Lindsay Powell (D)
JOSEPH AGUGLIA
I would advocate for investigating wasteful government spending, and advocate for a state government subcommittee, comprised of state legislators, to review waste, fraud, and abuse. Fetanyl, tianeprine(“gas station heroin”) and other drugs are hurting our citizens. As such, I would advocate for state restriction on the sale of gas station heroin, Kratom and any other dangerous drug. I would advocate for mental health, drug, and alcohol counseling. Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections? A: I have previously served as Judge of Elections for my precinct. As such, I am in favor of requiring identification at the polls prior to voting. I am also in favor of touch screen voting rather than “fill in the oval” voting, which would then provide an accommodation to disabled citizens enabling an easier voting process. Finally, I believe that voting information should be readily available to individuals that English is not their first language. Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? A: The Governor should submit a state budget that is not based on a contingency occurring, as the State Constitution provides that the Governor shall submit a balanced budget. State legislators should not receive their salary until the budget is passed, which certainly would provide enough incentive to pass a timely budget. State legislators should work to spot waste, fraud, and abuse; including any redundancies in spending. Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? A: Yes, the state should enact legislation concerning data center energy consumption. I would advocate for state regulation of data centers. More studies are needed to determine the proportional impact of data centers energy consumption. As such, I would advocate for a state ban on new data centers construction. State regulation of data centers would not interfere with the Municipal Planning Code, as state law trumps local legislation.
Q: What are the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them? A: My top priorities in office include dignified affordable housing for all, a strong and equitable local economy and safe community assets like playgrounds, greenspaces and roads and infrastructure. I believe that it is imperative that we are working towards a LINDSAY POWELL more livable city which means that there are opportunities to make and keep Pittsburgh home, there are family sustaining jobs available to our neighbors, and that we have safe and well maintained assets like bridges, roads, playgrounds and green spaces for all to enjoy. Since being elected in 2023, I’ve working to bring home critical dollars to increase the supply of attainable housing, building new assets like libraries and maintaining trailways on top of legislating. Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections? A: I’ve have been adamant that we need to remove any all barriers both real and perceived to voting and being a part of our democratic process. Our democracy can only continue to exist and be upheld if we protect our right to vote. In past sessions, I’ve been supportive of bills that would allow for early in person voting, where voters would be able to cast their vote ahead of time in the same manner they would on Election Day. I’ve supported changes that would allow counties to start preprocessing mail ballots up to seven days before Election Day to allow for faster election results. These are pieces of legislation I have supported in the past and will continue to support for freer and fairer elections in PA. Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? A: In recent years, our budget process has taken the legislature weeks if not months to complete, well over its deadline which isn’t fair to voters and all of the entities that rely on state funding. In particular, I have been supportive of efforts especially with our public schools to provide funding to assist school districts that have to take out loans or accrue interest to keep their schools open. It shouldn’t be the burden of our schools and really our children to bear the burden of our inability to finalize our budgets. Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? A: I believe that the state has the ability to provide guiderails around the construction and growing presence of data centers in our communities. Many of these data centers are interested in moving to areas in our Commonwealth and to municipalities that don’t always have the capacity to determine the long term impacts and implications of these facilities in their towns. I believe the state has a responsibility to slow down these aggressive proposals and give municipalities the tools to create community benefits agreements that protect the water quality and supply, determine the duty of the center to hire locally or use local materials and how they will curtail any overburdening of the local energy grid.
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State Representative - District 23
State Representative - District 24
The 23rd Legislative district contains several neighborhoods in the City of Pittsburgh, including Squirrel Hill, East and North Oakland, Bellefield, Shadyside, Greenfield, Swisshelm Park, and Summerset.
The 24th Legislative district contains several neighborhoods in the City of Pittsburgh, including Highland Park, East Liberty, Garfield, Bloomfield, Lincoln-Lemington, Larimar, Friendship, Belmar, Schenley Heights, the Upper Hill, Bedford Dwellings, West Oakland and parts of Homewood.
Candidates on the Ballot: •
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Dan Frankel (D)
Candidates on the Ballot: Dan Frankel
Party: Democratic Campaign Website: electdanfrankel.com/ Occupation: Legislator Education: Kenyon College Qualifications: Member of the PA State House since 1998
•
La’Tasha D Mayes (D) La’Tasha D Mayes
Party: Democratic Campaign Website: latashaforpa.com
Occupation: State Representative Education: University of Pittsburgh, Bachelor of Science in Q: What are the most pressing issues facing residents of Business Administration, 2003; Carnegie Mellon University, your district, and how would you address them? Master of Science in Public Policy and Management, 2005; A: Rep. Frankel sees the most pressing issues as rising costs University of Pennsylvania, Executive Program for Social Imof living, access to affordable healthcare, and ensuring safe, pact Strategy Certificate, 2019 healthy communities, including protecting clean air and waQualifications: I am currently State Representative and in ter. He focuses on practical solutions like strengthening public DAN FRANKEL my fourth year in office. I am a Member of the Appropriations, health protections, investing in infrastructure, supporting workJudiciary, Health, Housing and Human Services Committees. ing families, and expanding access to care to improve quality of LA’TASHA D MAYES life across the district. I am Co-Chair of the PA Black Maternal Health Caucus and I just passed the PA CROWN Act into law to end race-based hair discrimination. Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, Facebook: facebook.com/latashaforpa and support the processes of our elections? A: Rep. Frankel supports making it easier for eligible Pennsylvanians to vote while improving nstagram: instagram.com/latashaforpa how elections are administered, including earlier pre-canvassing of mail ballots, early in-per- X Handle: @latashaforpa son voting, secure ballot drop boxes, and allowing voters to fix minor mail ballot errors. He voted for the 2025 Voting Rights Protection Act and said he supported it because it would Q: What are the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them? expand ballot access while also investing in clarity and election security. A: The most pressing issue in my district is the rising costs of rent, food, gas, childcare, and health care and this financial strain is pushing Pittsburghers to the brink. Working class peoQ: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, ple and the working poor are barely able to make ends meet. It is time to increase the minwould you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? A: Rep. Frankel believes the budget process should be more transparent, predictable, and imum wage in Pennsylvania. While the Democratic majority passed legislation to increase focused on timely outcomes that reflect Pennsylvania’s priorities. He supports earlier ne- the minimum wage last week, the Republican-controlled Senate has neglected its duty to gotiations, greater transparency, and reforms that encourage on-time passage so schools, raise the wage for the people of Pennsylvania. Every surrounding state has a higher minimum wage. A $15 minimum wage tied to inflation makes our region and the 24th Legislative communities, and essential services are not left in uncertainty. District more affordable. This is the baseline to bring economic relief and human dignity to Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or Pennsylvanians. land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections? to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? A: Rep. Frankel supports thoughtful state-level standards to address the impacts of large- A: Our democracy is in peril, and we are fortunate to live in Pennsylvania where our elections scale development on water, energy, and land use, particularly where public health and infra- are fair, safe, and accessible. All of this can change in the blink of an election. While Pennstructure are affected. At the same time, he believes municipalities should retain meaningful sylvania has continued to expand ways for citizens to exercise the right to vote from mail-in authority under the MPC, with state policy designed to complement, not override, local deci- voting, online registration, drop boxes, language access, to prohibiting voter intimidation, the Trump administration continues to decimate voting rights by changing the timing on postmark sion-making. dates, to the SAVE America Act which will disenfranchise millions of voters especially women and to the most recent executive order to restrict mail-in voting. I support the K. Leroy Irvis Voting Protection Act and increases in the state budget to resource county election boards. Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? A: The state budget process is painful for Pennsylvania. The partisan politics continue to derail the process of meeting our constitutional duty to pass our budget by June 30th of each year. As an Appropriations Committee Member, I have had a closer view on how this process unfolds and while frustrating for the public and legislators alike, the delay is in the fight to win as much as possible for Pennsylvanians from maintaining access to health care including the greatest investments in maternal health to our state legislature equitably funding public education to continuing to increase state funding and financial options for affordable housing creation. Financial penalties for legislators are the most likely strategy to pass a timely budget. Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? A: Data centers must be regulated. Strong state regulations which I have already supported are required to protect our communities and environment. My district is home to tech companies such as Duolingo and Google and part of Penn Avenue has been designated “AI Avenue.” AI is undeniably here, however, the data centers driving this technical advancement drains water supply and strain the electrical grid, causing environmental harm through air and noise pollution. Municipalities should maintain their authority to establish ordinances, and we
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER GENERAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
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should still be doing all we can to regulate data centers at the state-level. I want to note that Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, building data centers in my district would be challenging due to urban density, but we must and support the processes of our elections? A: The myth of widespread election fraud has been disproven, and if mail-in voting is good remain vigilant. enough for the President, it’s good enough for the residents of PA. I support Democratic efforts to expand voting access (such as early voting), and I STRONGLY reject any version of the SAVE act, which will disenfranchise a significant number of eligible voters while rolling back democracy as we know it. I also strongly reject the idea of masked ICE agents at polling State Representative - District 25 places - voter intimidation has no place in the democratic process. The 25th Legislative district contains Monroeville, North Versailles, East McKeesport, Wall, Wilmerding, Turtle Creek, Pitcairn, parts of Plum Township, and the Allegheny County section of Trafford. Candidates on the Ballot: • •
Brandon J. Markosek (D) Amy Noone (R)
Brandon J. Markosek Party: Democratic -no responseAmy Noone Party: Republican -no response-
State Representative - District 27 The 27th Legislative district contains Ingram, Crafton, Green Tree, Heidelberg, Thornburg, Rosslyn Farms, Scott Township, and several neighborhoods in the City of Pittsburgh, including Fairywood, Windgap, Corliss, Crafton Heights, West End, Duquesne Heights, Mt. Washington, Westwood, Ridgemont, and Oakwood. Candidates on the Ballot: •
Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? A: Absolutely yes - I firmly believe that any and all new data center development needs to adhere to all water, energy and land use laws, and that we need to ensure that we don’t repeat the mistakes of the past in rushing headstrong and headfirst into rapid development of new technologies without the appropriate due diligence, vetting, and research into how to best combine innovation with conservation, so that we can avoid creating yet another significant environmental cost down the road, and so that we can set an example for the next generation who will be watching. I feel that the existing MPC should not be overruled by state mandates to allow for rapid data center development, while cutting through regulations and red tape. Jeremy Shaffer
Dan Deasy (D)
Dan Deasy Party: Democratic -no responseState Representative - District 28
The 28th Legislative district contains Bradford Woods, the Townships of Marshall, Pine, Richland and West Deer, and parts of Hampton. Candidates on the Ballot: • •
Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? A: There’s no simple answer to the negotiations of the state budget, and as a first-time candidate, I can’t speak with much authority to the process or the inner workings. However, I am a fan of compromise, and I think there are concessions that both sides can and should make in order to minimize shutdowns and borrowing from reserves. I also agree that legalizing recreational marijuana and taxing games, as proposed, while simultaneously investing in our infrastructure to make PA even more attractive to residents and businesses (think - modern rail travel across the state and connecting suburbs to city centers, increased and improved bike lanes, etc.), is a good strategy to both increase tax revenue and position PA for continued growth.
Jeremy Ferderber (D) Jeremy Shaffer (R) Jeremy Ferderber
Party: Democratic Campaign Website: ferd4pa.com Occupation: Vice President of Operations at Frankferd Farms Foods, Inc. Education: Bachelor of Science - Allegheny College Qualifications: Parent, Volunteer, Environmental Scientist, Small Business Operator, Soccer Coach, Decent Human Being Facebook: facebook.com/ferderber4pa/ nstagram: instagram.com/ferderber4pa/ JEREMY FERDERBER Q: What are the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them? A: My district covers a wide area with varying issues depending on location, but one consistent thing that impacts everyone is the affordability crisis. Whether it’s at the gas pump as a result of our current madman-in-chief, or at the grocery store, where prices are rising for various reasons including (but not limited to) laborers’ fears of being abducted by ICE not showing up to work, we all feel it. While these issues can’t all be addressed/corrected at the state level, I will work to bring common sense and decency into decision making, while simultaneously addressing other issues that we CAN have a direct impact on, like protecting our daughters’ rights that have been taken away at the federal level so that they can grow up safely in PA.
Party: Republican Campaign Website: www.voteshaffer.com Occupation: Engineer and State Representative Education: Ph.D. and Master’s in Electrical and Computer Engineering - Carnegie Mellon; MBA from Univ. of North Carolina Chapel Hill; Bachelors’ of Computer Engineering and Computer Science from Tulane University Qualifications: Entrepreneur; Twice elected Ross Township Commissioner; Northland Library Foundation Board; Northern Tier Library Foundation; National Park Service Volunteer; Youth Sports Coach; Current State Rep. Facebook: facebook.com/shaffer4pa/ Instagram: instagram.com/jeremyshafferpa/
JEREMY SHAFFER
Q: What are the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them? A: Pennsylvania has all the ingredients to be one of the fastest-growing states with the strongest economy in the country. We have some of the best schools, universities, hospitals, cultural amenities, recreational activities, and a workforce second to none. Yet, our state is consistently ranked as one of the worst states to do business in. The result is that companies and jobs have steadily left our region for other areas. Pennsylvania needs to dramatically restructure our tax and regulation rules to attract businesses and put us back on the path of growth. Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections? A: Our election system is functioning only at the level we have allowed — and we need to do better. For any democracy to function we need 100% public confidence in our elections. This requires Democrats and Republicans to set aside political differences and collaborate on transparency. Implementing voter ID is one approach that a majority of Pennsylvanians support. We also need to enhance support for local election workers, who are vital to maintaining election integrity. Many states also have multiple in-person voting days leading up to election day. There are common-sense reforms both parties can back, and I am committed to working across party lines to achieve this. (continued on next page...)
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER GENERAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
Jeremy Shaffer, Candidate for PA House - District 28 responses continued... Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? A: I was one of a handful of state legislators who refused to accept a paycheck during the lack of a budget. It is unacceptable that almost every year the budget is late – many times for months. It is not right that organizations must layoff staff or take out loans while our elected officials suffer no consequences. My changes include the following: - Downsizing our largest, most expensive state legislature - Implementing term limits - While the state doesn’t have a budget then state legislators should not be paid (something I do voluntarily myself) - If the state budget isn’t done on time then legislators shouldn’t receive pay raises - Legislature must remain in session until a budget is done - Move to two year budgeting Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? A: Data centers and electricity usage is a defining issue of our time. There is a massive investment in electrical production and data centers serving new AI based applications. Pennsylvania, is currently one of the top two states for electrical generation and we send a vast quantity of this energy to other states in the regional electrical grid (PJM) such as VA and OH to support their data centers. We must protect our consumers and not allow these states to drain our locally produced power which increases our electricity rates.
Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? A: With divided government and only a one-vote majority in the State House, the budget negotiations are very complex. They largely take place between leadership of both chambers and the Governor. I would like to see where the budgets are passed on time, particularly so that local school districts and non-profit organizations that rely on grants and funding from the state don’t have to go without while trying to figure out how to continue their critical work. I also support more transparency on the negotiations among all members of the legislature prior to a final vote. Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? A: I am very concerned about the affordability of electricity given the increased strain on the grid by data centers. I was proud to vote for Rep. Matzie’s legislation, HB 1834, to put in place comprehensive protections for ratepayers, support energy affordability programs, and begin integrating cleaner energy resources in the development and operation of data centers. Libby Blackburn Party: Republican -no response-
For local land use Pennsylvania has over 2,500 different municipalities whose expertise and experience vary greatly. The state should support these municipalities so they and the state get the direct benefit.
State Representative - District 32 The 32nd Legislative district contains Penn Hills, Oakmont, Verona, and part of Plum Borough.
State Representative - District 30 The 27th Legislative district contains Ingram, Crafton, Green Tree, Heidelberg, Thornburg, Rosslyn Farms, Scott Township, and several neighborhoods in the City of Pittsburgh, including Fairywood, Windgap, Corliss, Crafton Heights, West End, Duquesne Heights, Mt. Washington, Westwood, Ridgemont, and Oakwood.
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Candidates on the Ballot: • •
Joe McAndrew (D) Gary Motor (R) Joe McAndrew
Candidates on the Ballot:
Party: Democratic
• •
Occupation: State Representative Education: Fox Chapel High School, University of Dayton Qualifications: 2-Term State Representative Facebook: facebook.com/VoteJoeMcAndrew
Arvind Venkat (D) Libby Blackburn (R)
Arvind Venkat
Party: Democratic Campaign Website: VenkatforPA.com Occupation: Emergency Physician Education: A.B., Harvard College, A.M. Harvard University, M.D. Yale University Qualifications: Incumbent State Representative for the 30th Legislative District, Emergency Physician
Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them? A: There are many issues facing the residents of the 32nd district. High costs of living, infrastructure needs and public transportation, the protection of reproductive rights and the need for liveable wage jobs, just to name a few.
JOE MCANDREW
Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections? A: Right now we are in a world where one political party is attempting to remove ways for Pennsylvanians to be able to have access at the ballot box. I do not want to see ARVIND VENKAT these changes occur. Until that party is no longer in charge of the Pennsylvania Senate, Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, I believe we must be on the defense of the rights we currently have. We must keep our elections open and above board, while supporting free and fair elections, allowing everyand how would you address them? A: My district is very concerned about property tax increases and public education fund- one to vote and mail-in voting to continue. ing. Many in my district are property rich because home values have gone up, but cash poor because they’re on a fixed income. I have spent a lot of time focusing on making Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? sure that the school districts I represent, Avonworth, Hampton, and North Allegheny, get The state budget process is far from perfect. We are one of the few divided legislatures their fair share of funding increases to keep up with inflation so that my community will in the nation, this results in diverging views on our budget, which often cause sticking not have to sacrifice quality of education or raise taxes. points. Facebook: facebook.com/VenkatforPA Instagram: instagram.com/VenkatforPA X Handle: @VenkatforPA
Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections? A: I believe our elections are safe and secure. I have long been an advocate for election day registration, implementation of early in-person voting, pre-canvassing of mail-in ballots so that they can be counted more quickly on election day, and increased voting by mail. Our democracy thrives when people have free and fair access to the ballot box and trust in the results.
Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? Yes, we should address the growth of Data Centers on a state level. Data Center resource usages often times go outside of just a singular municipality when they are built (for example, their energy consumption affects rate payers across the system), so we must regulate them on a larger scale.
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER GENERAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
Gary Motor
Party: Republican
Occupation: Data Center Manager Education: CCAC - AS Qualifications: 46 years in Management and Operations working with people and budgets Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them? A: That is a question we all face and our answers may differ but listening and understanding what people think without viewing it in our own bias is what everyone who represents us should do. Using that knowledge to better represent all the GARY MOTOR people in our communities and make decisions with that goal in mind is our elected representatives duty. Working to make our communities, state and nation better should be the reason we get elected.
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Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections? A: I support commonsense steps to expand access while maintaining the strong security of Pennsylvania’s elections. That includes improving access to mail-in ballots—making the application process easier, ensuring timely delivery and return, and allowing voters to track their ballots. I also support establishing early in-person voting so voters have more flexibility and shorter lines on Election Day. At the same time, we must continue to invest in secure systems, well-trained election workers, and clear communication to voters. Our goal should be simple: make it easier to vote and harder to interfere, while ensuring every eligible voter can participate with confidence.
Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? A: Pennsylvania’s budget process too often comes down to last-minute negotiations, creating uncertainty for schools, local governments, and working families. We need to start the process earlier, with more structured timelines and clear benchmarks so real progress is made well before the deadline. Beginning negotiations sooner and maintaining consistent dialogue between all parties can help avoid delays and rushed decisions. An on-time budget is essential for stability, and I will continue working toward a more Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure secu- predictable, transparent process that delivers results for our communities. rity, and support the processes of our elections? A: I think that voter id makes senses considering that almost everything else we do re- Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, enerquires some sort of id. The difficult part is in what ever is used all eligible voters have the gy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state ability to provide it. regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? A: Yes—Pennsylvania should enact responsible laws to address the impacts of data cenWhat changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely ters on water, energy, and land use. As these facilities expand, we must protect our natmanner? ural resources and communities by requiring transparency, promoting renewable energy The budget should be approved when it is supposed to be and our representatives should use, and setting clear environmental standards. At the same time, state action should be held accountable if they fail to. Our representatives should treat the budget the same complement—not override—local control. Municipalities know their communities best, way they treat their personal budgets and work to make sure it can be paid for without and the Municipal Planning Code provides important authority over zoning and land use. undue pain to our communities. A balanced approach ensures we support innovation while protecting the common good. Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? I think sensible laws that are not excessive are useful but they should be based on current facts not opinions or the past.
Mike Hammill Party: Republican -no response-
State Representative - District 34
State Representative - District 33
The 34th Legislative district contains Wilkins Township, Braddock, Braddock Hills, Chalfant, Churchill, East Pittsburgh, Edgewood, Forest Hills, North Braddock, Rankin, Swissvale, Wilkinsburg and a few neighborhoods in the City of Pittsburgh, including Park Place, and parts of Homewood, and Point Breeze.
The 33rd Legislative district contains East Deer, Fawn, Frazer, Harmar, Harrison, Indiana, O’Hara and Springdale, Aspinwall, Blawnox, Brackenridge, Cheswick, Fox Chapel, Sharpsburg, and Tarentum. Candidates on the Ballot:
Candidates on the Ballot:
• •
•
Mandy Steele (D) Mike Hammill (R) Mandy Steele
Party: Democratic Campaign Website: steeleforpa.com Occupation: State Representative Education: https://www.steeleforpa.com/about Qualifications: https://www.steeleforpa.com/about Facebook: facebook.com/SteeleforPA Instagram: www.instagram.com/steeleforpa/ X Handle: @steeleforpa Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them? A: The most pressing issues facing residents of the 33rd DisMANDY STEELE trict are cost of living, infrastructure, and public education. Families are feeling squeezed by rising costs, so I’m focused on lowering everyday expenses through energy savings, property tax relief, and support for seniors. We must also invest in roads, bridges, and water systems to ensure safety and support economic growth. Finally, fully funding our public schools is essential—every child deserves a quality education, and our schools need fair, equitable resources. I’m committed to delivering practical solutions that strengthen our communities and support working families.
Abigail Salisbury (D)
Abigail Salisbury Party: Democratic -no response-
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OCTOBER 7 - NOVEMBER 3, 2026 GENREAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
State Representative - District 35 The 35th Legislative district contains Clairton, Duquesne, McKeesport, South Versailles, Homestead, Liberty, Lincoln, Munhall, Port Vue, Versailles, West Homestead, Whitaker and White Oak, and part of West Mifflin. Candidates on the Ballot: • •
Dan Goughnour (D) Jim Edwards (R) Dan Goughnour
Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? A: The budget must reduce the tax burden and needs to be balanced every year. All congressmen should not receive a paycheck if there is any type of government shutdown. Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? A: There should be oversight of these industries to ensure that there is no hazardous waste being emitted into the waterways or into the ground. All data centers should be self sufficient as it pertains to energy so they are not a burden on the municipality’s grid.
Party: Democratic Campaign Website: danforstaterep.com/ Occupation: State Representative 35th District Education: Allegheny County Police Academy/ McKeesport Area School District Qualifications: Law enforcement officer for 20 years, McKeesport Area School Board Director Facebook: facebook.com/DanforPA/ Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them? A: Coming from a law enforcement background, I want to DAN GOUGHNOUR make residents feel safe in their homes. Not only will this allow families to grow it will also create interest in folks directly investing in our communities. I want to strengthen public safety, clean up blight and invest in our infrastructure so that our communities will grow in the years to come.
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State Representative - District 36 The 36th Legislative district contains Brentwood, Mt. Oliver, and several neighborhoods in the City of Pittsburgh, including Beechview, Brookline, West Liberty, Overbrook, Carrick, South Side Slopes, Arlington, Arlington Heights, and St. Clair. Candidates on the Ballot: • •
Jessica Benham (D) Timothy McCune (R) Jessica Benham
Party: Democratic Campaign Website: benhamforpa.com
Occupation: State Representative Education: Ph.D. Communication, Univ of Pittsburgh; MA Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure secu- Bioethics, Univ. of Pittsburgh; BAs Communication and Political Science, Bethel Univ. rity, and support the processes of our elections? Qualifications: State Representative who has passed A: I believe we have fair and safe elections laws in place. prime-sponsored legislation protecting healthcare, established well-run constituent services in the district, and continQ: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, ues to bring back millions of dollars for district projects Facebook: facebook.com/BenhamforPA/ would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? Instagram: instagram.com/jessicalbenham A: I believe that legislators should not leave Harrisburg until a budget is passed. X Handle: @jessicalbenham JESSICA BENHAM Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? and how would you address them? A: The state should definitely set ‘guard rails’ for the operation of data centers. We should A: The most pressing issues in my district are access to affordable healthcare, economic also be empowering our local governments to control who and what is operating in their opportunity, affordability, and a safe, healthy environment. Residents are facing rising costs, aging infrastructure, and environmental challenges that impact public health. I’m respective municipalities. focused on lowering healthcare costs, investing in infrastructure, and ensuring schools are fairly funded. I also support workers’ rights and policies that build an economy that works for everyone, not just those at the top, while addressing barriers faced by people with disabilities and other underserved communities. Jim Edwards Party: Republican Occupation: US Army Officer Education: Doctorate Degree Qualifications: I have managed pathology departments throughout the state for 20 years. I have been an officer in the US Army for 25 years serving in various positions such as Commander, Operations Officer, and Executive Officer. I have worked in the National Guard Coordination Center during natural disaster.
Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections? A: I believe we can and must protect election integrity while expanding access. As a former Judge of Elections, I’ve seen the importance of both. I support expanded early and mail-in voting, stronger voter education, and fully accessible polling places. We also need continued investment in election infrastructure and staffing so counties can run secure, efficient, and transparent elections. Protecting democracy means ensuring every eligible voter can cast a ballot and have it counted while pushing back against misinformation.
Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? A: The state budget process should be transparent, collaborative, and timely, but delays too often create uncertainty for schools, local governments, and service providers. I Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing JIM EDWARDS support reforms that encourage earlier, more open negotiations, clearer communication residents of your district, and how would you address with the public, and stronger adherence to deadlines. The budget must reflect commuthem? A: The biggest issue is the ability to keep as much of your paycheck as possible. I would nity needs by prioritizing investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and public put forth bills that would reduce the tax burden of everyone to include gas tax, inheritance safety. It should be a tool to improve people’s lives, not a source of instability. tax, property tax, and other areas like no emission test. Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, enerQ: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure secu- gy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of rity, and support the processes of our elections? A: Annually a bipartisan team will review all voter registration to ensure they are up to municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? date and accurate. All registered voters must show ID before being allowed to cast their A: Data centers pose serious risks to our communities, particularly through high energy consumption, water use, and strain on infrastructure, sometimes without providing proballot. portional local benefit. I believe the state must take a stronger role in regulating to protect
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER GENERAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
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public resources, affordability, and community health. Local communities should also Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state have the power to say no to projects that don’t serve their interests. regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? Timothy McCune A: Yes—data centers have real impacts on water use, energy demand, and land use, Party: Republican so the state should set clear, baseline standards for efficiency, environmental protection, -no responseand grid reliability. That includes responsible water use, clean energy requirements, and transparency. At the same time, state law should respect and preserve local control unState Representative - District 38 der the MPC. Municipalities must retain the authority to zone, set conditions, and address The 38th Legislative district contains Baldwin, Whitehall, Dravosburg, Glassport, part community impacts. The right approach is a floor—not a ceiling—so statewide standards of West Mifflin, and a few neighborhoods in the City of Pittsburgh, including Hays, protect residents while local governments can go further based on community needs. Hays Woods, and New Homestead. Candidates on the Ballot: • •
John Inglis (D) Stone Sobieralski (R)
John Inglis Party: Democratic -no responseStone Sobieralski Party: Republican -no responseState Representative - District 39
The 39th Legislative district contains Elizabeth, West Elizabeth, Forward, Jefferson Hills, Pleasant Hills, South Park, and parts of Westmoreland County including Monongahela, Carroll, New Eagle, Finleyville, and Union. Candidates on the Ballot: • •
Dylan Altemara (D) Andrew Kuzma (R)
Dylan Altemara
Party: Democratic Campaign Website: dylan4pa.com/ Occupation: Educational Staffing Professional Education: BA, California University of PA - Sociology, MS, Southern New Hampshire University - Human Resources, EdD, Point Park University Educational Leadership and Administration Qualifications: 4-Generation resident of SWPA, Educational Professional, and Union Leader Facebook: facebook.com/dylan4pa Instagram: www.instagram.com/dylan4pa/ Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them? A: The biggest issue facing our district is simple: working people are being squeezed while Harrisburg isn’t delivering. Families here are dealing with rising property taxes, higher utility bills, and wages that aren’t keeping up. Meanwhile, utility monopolies keep raising rates and politicians look the other DYLAN ALTEMARA way. I’ll fight to lower costs, raise wages, and hold corporate interests accountable—because government should work for people, not the powerful. Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections? A: I support expanding early voting, no-excuse mail-in voting, and secure ballot drop boxes to improve access. At the same time, we must invest in election security, modern equipment, and well-trained poll workers. I oppose voter suppression and support clear, consistent rules so every eligible voter can safely and confidently participate in our elections. Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? Pennsylvania’s budget process is too often delayed by political gridlock, creating uncertainty for schools, local governments, and working families. Let’s keep budgets on time, transparent, and focused on real needs—not backroom deals. I support earlier, more open negotiations, firm deadlines with accountability measures, and greater public input. We should also require clearer reporting so residents understand where their tax dollars go. Ultimately, the process should prioritize stability, fiscal responsibility, and timely investments in education, infrastructure, and public services.
Andrew Kuzma Party: Republican -no response-
Make a Plan to Vote at Your Polling Place 1. Check Your Voter Registration Status Go to the PA Dept. of State website to verify that you are registered to vote. You will also find your address, your political party (if you chose one when you registered), and your polling place where you will cast your vote. Your Voter Registration Card will also have this info. (Your County Elections Office can replace your card.)
2. Decide what Identification (ID) you will take with you to your Polling Place Acceptable IDs for the first time in a polling place include the Photo ID's and the Non-Photo ID's listed below. If you are not a first-time voter or not voting for the first time in a polling place, ID is not required in Pennsylvania, unless your identity is challenged. (See VoteRiders.org)
3. BEFORE Election Day
4. ON Election Day
Make sure you can find your Polling Place and figure out how you will travel there. (Allegheny County registered voters will receive postcard with Polling Place location.) Decide what time of day you will go to vote and make necessary arrangements ahead of time at work and/or school. Find all of the Election Day info at www.alleghenycounty.us
At your Polling Place, check in with an election official. Look over your PAPER BALLOT carefully before making your choices. Made an error? Ask for a new ballot--do not cross out or erase items. You may also request to use a ballot-marking device. Insert your ballot in the machine that scans it. Wait until you see "Thank you.." before you leave.
5. Acceptable Photo ID's
6. Acceptable Non-Photo ID's Including Name and Address
PA Driver's License or PennDOT ID card ID by any Commonwealth (PA Gov't ) Agency ID issued by the US Gov't US Passport US Armed Forces ID Student ID with date Employee ID
Voter Registration card Non-Photo ID by Commonwealth (PA Gov't) Agency Firearm Permit Current Utility Bill Current Bank Statement Current Paycheck Government Check
Problems at your Polling Place? You may always ask for a Provisional Ballot if you are challenged for any reason. Don't leave without voting! civic.education@lwvpgh.org
7. For More Voter Information Go to vote.pa.gov to register to vote, change address, name, political party affiliation, to apply for a Mail-in/Absentee ballot, and more. Go to Vote411.org to learn about candidates on your ballot just type in your home address. Check this League of Women Voters website often, for updated election information.
2021 League of Women Voter of Greater Pittsburgh
info@lwvpgh.org
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER GENERAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
State Representative - District 40 The 40th Legislative district contains Bethel Park, part of Upper Saint Clair, and Peters Township (in Washington County). Candidates on the Ballot: • •
Jon Lloyd (D) Natalie Mihalek (R) Jon Lloyd
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Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them? A: Affordability is an issue for the 40th district just like it is every where else. That is why I am a co-sponsor of legislation to reduce the personal income tax. I have also sponsored bills that would enact a tax holiday on the gas tax as well as other expenses for families including newborn gear and youth sports equipment. I have voted in favor of a minimum wage increase because I believe Pennsylvania’s was far too low. I am also a prime sponsor of the Family Care Act which would guarantee all workers paid family and medical leave. We know that most Pennsylvanians are living pay check to pay check and no one should have to decide between caring for a loved one and their income. Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections? A: I would vote in favor of pre-canvassing. I think the faster we can produce election results, the less concerns about the integrity of the system. A long drawn out counting process is not ideal for the government or the voters.
Party: Democratic Campaign Website: jlforpa.com Occupation: IT Infrastructure Manager Facebook: facebook.com/jlforpa/ Instagram: instagram.com/jlforpa/ Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them? A: In the 40th District, our residents are facing issues similar to those in our surrounding communities. Rising costs, aging infrastructure, and growing concern about public health and the environment are posing real challenges to everyday life JON LLOYD and concerns for the future. Additionally, many residents feel that government is unresponsive to their needs. I would focus on initiatives that would support working families, more affordable housing and healthcare, and improving critical infrastructure. I would also lead with transparency and a commitment to listening to the people I serve. Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections? A: I will always support changes that make voting more accessible, secure, and transparent. I would support easier access to mail-in ballots, expanding early voting, and allocating more resources for counties and municipalities to better administer elections. I believe that every eligible voter should be able to vote easily and have confidence that their ballot will be counted accurately.
Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? A: The state budget process is my number one frustration as a member of the legislature. I am working on a bill right now that is modeled after a Canadian law which triggers an election if the budget is not passed on time. Right now there are zero consequences to the people at the negotiating table. School districts and non-profits getting their funding late is apparently not reason enough to negotiate in good faith and in a timely manner. Maybe if the jobs of the very people at the table were on the line that would be a motivating reason to fulfill our constitutional duty of passing a budget by June 30. Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? A: Yes, Pennsylvania needs to act swiftly and smartly regarding the rapid expansion of data centers across the country. We know this will take a huge amount of energy and water to run. I think we can do this in a way that is not harmful to the environment, while also increasing access to a new revenue stream and new jobs for the Commonwealth. The idea shouldn’t be to usurp power from local municipalities but to wrap some uniform parameters around this growing field for the entire Commonwealth.
Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? A: I believe that the state budget process should be transparent, collaborative, and accountable. Government making decisions behind closed doors and going well past deadState Representative - District 42 lines is unacceptable. The delay of the prior year’s budget had an adverse effect on schools, local governments, and families. I would support earlier budget talks, greater The 42nd Legislative district contains Baldwin, Mt. Lebanon, part of Upper St. Clair, public input, and greater transparency through better disclosure of budget negotiations. I Dormont, and Castle Shannon. truly believe government works best when it is collaborative and responsible to the people, especially when it comes to our budget. Candidates on the Ballot: Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? A: I believe the state should implement legislation that addresses the environmental and economic impacts of data centers. I would vote for and co-sponsor legislation that would require these centers to develop energy, water, and other environmental plans such that our residents are not absorbing the cost of the increased energy grid and water usage. I also believe that the MPC should be preserved to adopt local zoning and land use ordinances that reflect the needs of the community. Natalie Mihalek Party: Republican Campaign Website: nataliemihalek.com Occupation: State Representative 40th Legislative District Education: Bachelor of Arts: University of Pittsburgh (2004); Juris Doctorate: Appalachian School of Law (2007); Diploma: South Allegheny High School (1997); Graduate of Naval Nuclear Power School (1998) Qualifications: With my roots firmly planted in southwestern Pennsylvania, I have leaned on my experience of growing up in Allegheny County and really understanding the ways in which the region has changed to influence how I represent the nearly 65,000 residents of the 40th legislative district. Facebook: facebook.com/RepMihalek/
NATALIE MIHALEK
•
Jen Mazzocco (D) Jen Mazzocco
Party: Democratic Campaign Website: jenforpa.com Occupation: Representative in the General Assembly, House District 42 Education: University of Pittsburgh, Bachelor of Arts in Nonfiction Writing; Master of Arts in Teaching Secondary English Qualifications: 15 years as a public school teacher; 8 years as a council member in the Borough of Dormont; 7 years as Political Action Committee Chair for the Pittsburgh Federation of Teachers, Executive Board Member; current incumbent State Representative in District 42 Facebook: www.facebook.com/share/16vaSwvw1h/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram: www.instagram.com/jenforpa/ X Handle: @jenforpa
JEN MAZZOCCO
Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them? A: I think improving affordability is an issue that cuts across income brackets in our district - from healthcare, to childcare, to utilities - we can do more work to mitigate increased costs in these areas for working and middle class families. Transit is also a huge issue for HD42 - we are served by all three light rail lines and several bus lines. We need sustainable, predictable funding for public transportation in PA so we can build on
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER GENERAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
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the routes we have and make public transit a first choice for our residents. I also think protecting our democracy and the rights of our neighbors is of high concern in our district, whether it be voting rights, the LGBTQ+ community, women’s reproductive rights, or our immigrant community.
Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections? A: I support legislation that is being proposed by Rep. Tarik Khan that would confirm state control over voter registration databases and election infrastructure; require a court order before any federal access to voter data; prohibit bulk or fishing-expedition requests; and protect Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure secu- election workers from pressure or retaliation for simply doing their jobs. In addition, I support rity, and support the processes of our elections? efforts to make voting more accessible and increase voter participation. These include early A: I would support increased early voting -- more times and locations. I support con- voting, mail-in voting and multilingual voting resources. tinuing vote by mail, increasing drop-off sites for ballots, and reducing barriers to ballot acceptance (ability to cure defective ballots) and the ability for counties to canvass mail Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would before election day. I support automatic voter registration or a permanent absentee/mail you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? ballot list. I DO NOT support increased Voter ID requirements -- our elections are secure, A: As a challenger, I have only observed the budget process from the outside. From that and requiring specific ID every time one votes equates to a poll tax. perspective it has been lengthy, inefficient and led to uncertainty for important organizations across the Commonwealth. As long as the state government is divided, and our country is Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, divided along party lines, it is difficult to envision an environment where leaders are incentivwould you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? ized to seek compromise. Once in the state legislature, I would seek and support changes to A: Though I think it would be very difficult for one freshman legislator to take actions streamline the budget process and ensure its timely passage. to impact the timing of the budget, I think, as a caucus, find areas of compromise to hopefully make headway on bigger issues where the parties are more divided. I do think Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or there are some issues - like electricity costs, healthcare, housing -- that concern folks land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation on both sides of the aisle, and could represent big wins for Pennsylvanians and create of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities relationships that might lead to progress on more divisive issues, like public education to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? and transit funding. A: With the rapid increase of data centers, it is critical that the state legislature enact laws to mitigate the risk to our citizens and their communities. This state regulation should provide Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, ener- reasonable oversight, protect energy and natural resources, and help keep utility costs afgy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state fordable for consumers. The municipal governments should handle the zoning issues and regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of concerns that are specific to their area and respond to the needs of their constituents. municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? A: At the state level, I think that AI data center development needs to come with guaranteed contributions to energy assistance programs, robust community benefit agreements and protections for the surrounding environment, including mitigation of water usage Valerie Gaydos through water recirculation and moves toward clean energy for power generation. I would support legislation to require the Pennsylvania Utilities Commission to regulate data centers. At the municipal level, zoning laws can be adjusted to set specific parameters for Party: Republican local approval that developers must adhere to. Campaign Website: votevaleriegaydos.com
State Representative - District 44 The 44th Legislative district contains Aleppo, Crescent, Findlay Township, Moon Township, North Fayette, Bell Acres, Edgeworth, Glen Osborne, Glenfield, Haysville, Leet Township, Leetsdale, Sewickley, Sewickley Heights and Sewickley Hills. Candidates on the Ballot: • •
Hadley Haas (D) Valerie Gaydos (R) Hadley Haas
Party: Democratic Campaign Website: hadleyforpa.com Occupation: Advocate Education: Bachelors Degree in Economics and Communications, The University of Michigan Qualifications: 20+ years of professional experience in marketing and communications roles; Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America: Elections Lead, Pittsburgh Local Group CoLead, PA Legislative Co-lead; Chair of the Friends of the Hearing Center at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh; local education advocate Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092780310068 Instagram: www.instagram.com/hadleyforpa X Handle: @hbeckhaas
Occupation: Legislator/ business owner Education: Dickinson college BA, language and economics Facebook: facebook.com/VoteValerieGaydos/ X Handle: @Gaydosforpa Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them? A: Affordability. The issues the people of the 44th District care about range from the rising cost of living, to the lack of access to VALERIE GAYDOS healthcare to ensuring a quality education for our kids. On these issues we need leadership focused on solutions, not politics. Government can ease the cost of living by controlling spending and taxes, as well as unleashing PA’s energy sector to better control utility bills. We can invest in traditional education and support alternatives. And we can make healthcare more affordable and accessible by allowing competition in health insurance, supporting innovation in healthcare (ie. Telemedicine) and making it easier to attract and keep doctors and healthcare workers to our state Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections? A: We all share a common goal: make voting easier and increasing voter confidence and participation. Updating and maintaining clean voter rolls is a priority; ensuring strong oversight of mail-in voting; implementing voter id; ensuring voting machines are up-to-date with all standards; requiring consistency of voting rules across the state; and more timely vote counting of all votes at the polls.
Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? A: As stewards of taxpayer dollars, it is our duty to ensure public funds are being used responsibly and efficiently. We must increase transparency and accountability in the budget HADLEY HAAS process so taxpayers know what to expect as budgets are developed and “what happened” if they are not met. My legislation- House Bill 979 - would strengthen accountability in state Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and programs by requiring agencies to assess, report & publicly disclose improper payments, mirhow would you address them? roring federal standards to reduce waste, improve transparency and protect taxpayer dollars. A: The most pressing issue facing residents of my district is the rising cost of a comfortable I support a bill to require the Legislature to remain in session until the budget is passed and life. I hear most often about the costs of energy and healthcare. In order to reduce the cost to stop pay for legislators if the budget is not passed on time of energy, I support community solar and increased access to renewable energy. It is crucial to ensure there are guardrails around data centers, their energy consumption and the impact it has on the demand for energy. The increase in healthcare premium costs and expiration of the Affordable Care Act tax credits have caused people to drop their health insurance (Continued on next page...) coverage, which leaves them susceptible to health and financial risks. I support exploring legislative efforts like those proposed by Reps. Powell and Scott to guarantee affordable health care coverage
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OCTOBER 7 - NOVEMBER 3, 2026 GENREAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Valerie Gaydos, Candidate for PA House - District 44 responses continued... Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? A: The legislative initiatives I support would ultimately protect and help the people of the 44th District. That’s what being a Representative means. Specific to data centers, there are different approaches the state can take, including: ensuring data centers are built only in industrial areas; protecting utility ratepayers from subsidizing data center operations; holding centers accountable for their energy and water use and protecting environmental areas from damage by development. Taken correctly – and without partisan rancor – actions like these could provide municipalities with tools to better manage and regulate data center siting & operations, ensuring they align with local communities.
process. Like most Pennsylvanians, I would encourage leadership to pass a budget on time and in a manner that provides our constituents relief from relentlessly rising costs.
State Representative - District 45
James Julius
The 45th Legislative district contains Collier Township, Kennedy Township, Robinson Township, Stowe, Bridgeville, Carnegie, Coraopolis, Neville Island, Kirwan Heights, McKees Rocks and Pennsbury Village. Candidates on the Ballot: • •
Brittany Bloam (D) James Julius (R)
Brittany Bloam
Party: Democratic Campaign Website: brittany4pa.com Occupation: Attorney Education: University of Pittsburgh, School of Law Qualifications: I have been an Attorney dealing with municipal law for 16 years. I have an intimate understanding on how state laws, and spending can affect local municipalities and their ability to govern, and invest in their communities. As an Attorney, I spend time on a daily basis working with people I may not Facebook: facebook.com/brittany4pa/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/brittany4pa/ Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing BRITTANY BLOAM residents of your district, and how would you address them? A: Families across our communities are feeling the pressure of rising costs, and they deserve leadership focused on real relief. I am committed to policies that make our lives more affordable, without tax increases. We must be responsible with public tax dollars by setting clear priorities to address the cost of living, and ensuring the government works efficiently for the people it serves. Through my legal career, I have witnessed firsthand how state-level decisions shape outcomes for municipalities, unions, small businesses, and families. My perspective on governance includes a commitment to collaboration and a deep respect for the role local government plays in delivering key services and driving progress.
Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? A: As a land use attorney, I am well-versed in the MPC and the authority it grants to municipalities. The state legislature could choose to enact laws regulating the impacts of water, energy, and land use for the development and operation of data centers. State-level regulation may be appropriate for certain aspects of development, as local municipalities often lack the resources to manage large-scale development. I would support state-level regulation to provide procedural clarity and minimum standards, but that also builds in flexibility to allow local governments to determine what is best for their communities.
Party: Republican Campaign Website: james4pa.com Occupation: Business Owner Education: MBA, MS, BS Qualifications: I’m a business owner, job creator, husband, father, and community leader who has built companies, managed budgets, and solved real problems. I’m running to bring practical leadership, accountability, and common sense to Harrisburg. Facebook: facebook.com/James4PA/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/jamesjuliuspa/ X Handle: @JamesJuliusPA
JAMES JULIUS
Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them? A: The biggest issues I hear are affordability, property taxes, traffic and infrastructure, public safety, school quality, and economic growth that fits our communities. I would fight for transparent, on-time budgets; cut red tape for housing, small business, and redevelopment; invest in roads, bridges, and core infrastructure; support police, fire, and EMS; and strengthen public schools, career and technical education, and apprenticeships so more families can afford to stay and build a future here.
Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections? A: We should make it easy for every eligible voter to cast a legal ballot and hard for anyone to game the system. I support voter ID, with free IDs for eligible voters, cleaner voter rolls, uniform statewide rules, strong chain-of-custody protections, paper ballot audit trails, better poll worker training, and transparent post-election audits. I would improve Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, access for seniors, people with disabilities, military voters, and others with valid absentee needs, while reserving absentee voting for qualified excuses. and support the processes of our elections? A: I’ve served as both an election protection volunteer and a poll worker on Election Day. I’ve seen firsthand that our elections are safe, secure, and fair, and we must stop the unfounded Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, efforts to undermine the public’s trust in these institutions. I support increasing access to would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? the ballot by opening up our primaries, and allow same-day or automatic voter registration, A: Pennsylvania’s budget process is too often late, opaque, and driven by last-minute pre-canvassing mail-in ballots, and increasing the number of drop boxes to make it easier to deals. I support earlier negotiations, honest revenue estimates, multi-year forecasting, a vote. 72-hour public review rule, and separating major code and policy changes from the final Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would scramble whenever possible. I also support consequences when Harrisburg misses the deadline, including no automatic legislative COLAs or perks for lawmakers. Taxpayers you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? A: I recognize that as a first-time legislator, I will have limited ability to change the budget deserve an on-time budget built in the open, with measurable results and no gimmicks.
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER GENERAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? A: Yes. Data centers can bring jobs and investment, but they cannot come with blank checks or costs pushed onto residents. The state should set baseline guardrails on water use, energy demand, backup generation, noise, emergency planning, and who pays for utility and infrastructure upgrades. But Harrisburg should not wipe out local control. Municipalities should keep authority under the MPC to decide siting, setbacks, buffering, traffic, height, and compatibility with local plans. State law should set minimum standards and transparency, not preempt local zoning. Broad preemption would interfere with municipal authority; a statewide floor with local flexibility would not.
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Q: Should the state legislature enact laws concerning the impacts on water, energy, or land use from the development and operation of data centers? Would state regulation of data center development and operation interfere with the authority of municipalities to establish ordinances under the MPC (Municipal Planning Code)? A: State regulations must be written to coexist with local autonomy in a way that balances economic development, environmental protection, and local control. Water withdrawal permits must be tied to capacity. Efficiency standards must water reuse and recycling. Contingencies must be in place in case of a drought. Water needs must be given priority: household and residential, Agricultural, industry , then Data centers. It must be built in from day 1 that costs of power generation must not be shifted to local rate payers. I would also require that developers pay for all transmission upgrades, grid stabilization costs, and no costs get shifted to or shared with local residential or business ratepayers. Jason Ortitay Party: Republican -no response-
State Representative - District 46 The 46th Legislative District contains South Fayette Township and Oakdale in Allegheny County; McDonald, which is split between Allegheny and Washington Counties; and Canonsburg, Cecil Township, Chartiers Township, Houston, Mount Pleasant, and parts of North Strabane Township in Washington County. Candidates on the Ballot: • •
2026 Ballot Question for residents of Allegheny County
Mike Crossey (D) Jason Ortitay (R)
November 3, 2026 -General Election Proposed Amendment to Allegheny County Home Rule Charter
Mike Crossey Party: Democratic Campaign Website: crosseyforpa.com/ Occupation: Business Broker/Retired Education: BS.Ed; MA. ;MS.ED Qualifications: Retired Teacher/Past President PSEA/Former Elected Official/President Pennsylvania Alliance for Retired Americans Q: What do you see as the most pressing issues facing residents of your district, and how would you address them? A: I believe the biggest problem affecting Pennsylvanians and the residents of my district is the growing affordability crisis. We are facing this crisis because of a structural deficit. We have been funding services with one time fixes, drawing down the rainy day fund, and back filling with federal suppleMIKE CROSSEY ment dollars. Families are struggling to keep up. It is difficult to meet even basic needs for many. Families are strained. Costs are rising in every area of the family budget, All this, while salaries have remained stagnant and public supports have diminished or disappeared. I will present 3 specific plans to increase state revenue to reduce costs, increase public support, create family sustaining jobs, and improve our infrastucture.
In June of 2026, County Council passed an ordinance placing the following question on the ballot in Allegheny County:
" Shall Article 3, Subsection 7(c) of Allegheny County’s Home Rule Charter be repealed in order to remove restrictions on County Council members’ ability to receive County funding for personal staff, district offices, and fringe benefits?"
ALLEGHENY COUNTY BALLOT QUESTION Every voter in the Allegheny County can vote on this question:
Proposed Allegheny County Home Charter Allegheny County HomeRule Rule Charter Section 7(c) A "Yes" Vote would: Amendment A "No" Voteto would: Remove section 7(c)
Leave section 7 (c) of
"County Council Members shall not be entitled to receive
any County funding for personal staff, local district offices “Shall 3, Subsection 7(c) Rule of Allegheny County’s Home Rule Charter be repealed from Article the Allegheny the Home Charter or fringe benefits including, but not limited to, health and in County order Home to remove restrictions Rule in place. on County Council members’ ability to receive County life insurance, pensions and personal motor vehicles." Charter.for personal staff, district offices, and fringe benefits?” funding
Allegheny County Council is made upsection of 15 members, functions as the legislative branch Home of Allegheny County A “Yes” Vote would: Remove 7(c)and from the Allegheny County Rule Charter. government. The County Council's core function is to approve the County's budget.
County Council is a part-time position. Members do not receive a salary. Instead they receive an annual stipend A “NO” Vote would: Leave section 7 (c) of the Home Rule Charter in place. of about $11,000. This is mandated in a different section of the Home Rule Charter and would not change if the ballot question passes.
In addition, County Council not receiveSection benefits, or7(c) funding for an office or personal staff. Allegheny County Homemembers Rule do Charter Currently, the County Council has shared staff for the 15 members.
The limit on fringe benefits for the County Council is part of the Allegheny County Home Rule Charter and can only “County Council Members shall not be entitled to receive any County funding for personal be changed by the voters in a referendum.
staff, local district offices or fringe benefits including, but not limited to, health and life insurance, pensions and personal motor vehicles.” Opponents say: Supporters say:
The Home Rule Charter intended to create a part-time Council with limited costs to the County. The cost of providing benefits and funding for County government. Funding would increase the additional staff support would strain the County County Council's effectiveness as an independent budget and burden branch of government in this role. Allegheny County Council is made up of 15 members, and taxpayers. functions as the legislative the proposal doesn't approve funding for new County Council members are the only elected branch of Allegheny County government. TheAlthough County Council’s core function is to apservices at this time, it opens the door for ongoing Allegheny County officials who are prohibited from provehaving the fringe County’s funding increases. benefits budget. and personal staff. The lack of The decision should not be made without hearing benefits and staff support discourages people from recommendations from the government review serving on County Council. County Council is a part-time position. Members do not receive a salary. Instead they commission. This commission is currently meeting and A position as County Council member would remain receive an annual stipend of about $11,000. This is mandated a in different is scheduled to reportin later the year. section of the part time and receive only the mandated stipend.
The Home Rule Charter intended for the County
Council "provide checks and balances" in Allegheny Background
Q: What changes, if any, would you support to enable better access, ensure security, and support the processes of our elections? A: I believe our elections are secure, but they are under constant attack by those who want to undermine the system. Over the last several years I have been involved in several lawsuits protecting and enhancing voter rights. I am currently suing the Federal Department of Justice to stop their overreach-demanding access to our voters personal data. Two bills I will introduce to make our elections more secure would be no firearms within 300 feet of a polling place and no ICE agents on or near the approach to a polling location. Home Rule Charter and would not change if the ballot question passes.
For more information, visit www.lwvpgh.org/ballot
Q: What are your thoughts on the state budget process? What changes, if any, would you support so that the budget is enacted in a timely manner? A: The state budget process is always a battle over priorities and approaches to solving Where are the County Term Limit Questions? Pennsylvania’s problems and how to move forward. President Trump’s cutbacks and curtailments have given us fewer dollars to work with, making the problem worse for every Pennsylvanian. The budget has also become a political battle. My solution to this is to You may have heard that the County Council passed a resolution to add ballot questions make an on time budget a priority. I will introduce legislation that says: No budget-No pay. about term limits for many Allegheny County elected officials. These questions were This would not apply to staff. It will be directed at the governor and all elected members challenged in court, and on August 14, a judge ordered them removed from the ballot of the legislature. for procedural reasons. The term limit questions will not appear on your ballot in the November 3 election.
OCTOBER 7 - NOVEMBER 3, 2026 GENREAL ELECTION VOTERS GUIDE 2026
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Roles & Duties of our ELECTED OFFICIALS
Officials Running in the 2026 Federal and State Midterm Election
AND WHAT DO THEY DO
FEDERAL AND STATE ELECTION 2026
FEDERAL
This is a CONSEQUENTIAL ELECTION that could bring changes to the MAJORITY AND MINORITY BALANCES in both the US Congress and the PA General Assembly. Many voters focus on Federal Elections, but many national issues can be solved by State Governments. This year in Allegheny County, we will elect or reelect the Governor/Lt. Governor, 2 US Representatives, (No US Senators), 2 State Senators, and 21 State Representatives.
US REPRESENTATIVES in Congress (All 17) 2-yr term. PA has 17 US Representatives. Introduces bills, resolutions, & amendments. Writes/votes in favor or against final bills. Approves US budget. May send Articles of Impeachment of elected officials to the Senate. Serves on policy committees like Agriculture, Budget, Education, Energy, Foreign Affairs, Judiciary, Oversight, Small Business, Select Committee on Intelligence. Allegheny County- US Representatives in District 12 and District 17 will be elected or reelected in 2026.
PA LT. GOVERNOR
PA GOVERNOR 4-yr term. The Commonwealth’s chief executive responsible for proposing the state budget, signing or vetoing legislation, overseeing state agencies, working with the State Legislature on policies about economic development, education, job creation, public safety, immigration, supporting agriculture, business development, emergency management, elections, and environment. He also is Commander-inChief of the Pennsylvania National Guard. In 2026, the Governor and Lt. Governor will be elected or reelected.
STATE
24
PA Senator (25 of 50)
4-yr term. No term limits. 50 PA Senators represent one district each, with an equal number of constituents. Develops budget packages and makes taxation decisions, allocates spending, passes laws, including redistricting, in collaboration with the House of Representatives. Can try officials impeached by the House. Authorizes executive appointments. Serves on policy committees, like Health/Human Services, Labor, State Government, Allegheny County- 2 State Senators will be elected.
4-yr term. Teamed together with the Governor as a single ticket for a General Election, the Lt. Governor is a crucial partner to the Governor. Duties include presiding over the PA Senate (casting tie-breaking votes), chairing the Board of Pardons, and leading committees like the Local Government Advisory Committee and Emergency Management Council. First in line to succeed the Governor.
PA Representatives (All 203) 2-yr term. No term limits. 203 PA Representatives represent one district each, with an equal number of constitutents. Develops budget packages, makes taxation decisions, allocates spending, passes laws, including redistricting, in collaboration with the State Senate. Exclusive authority to impeach officials. Serves on policy committees like Aging, Children & Youth, Education, Environment/Energy, Finance, Health, Human Services, Judiciary, Liquor Control, State Government. Allegheny County- 21 State Reps will be elected.
2026 League of Women Voters of Greater Pittsburgh