It's about real work, not a title, Nesby said by Rob Taylor Jr.
Courier Staff Writer
Come January 2026, Mary Nesby will make history as Homestead's first Black woman mayor. That's admirable, Mayor-elect Nesby told the New Pittsburgh Courier, but for her, it's not about titles. In her mind, with all she feels she's done in the Homestead community, she feels like the mayor already. She told the Courier on Nov. 10 that she's lived in Homestead for the past 23 years, and after being on Homestead Bor-
ough Council for the past eight years, she knows the ins and outs of not only Homestead in the community, but in the political world.
Her friends, family and supporters serenaded her as she easily won the General Election for Homestead Mayor on Election night, Nov. 4, 2025, during an Election Night Watch Party at EON in Homestead. But..."this is real work, this ain't about a SEE NESBY A9
A week later: A dire need in Jamaica
by April Ryan BLACKPRESSUSA NEWSWIRE
The United Nations reports that Hurricane Melissa has scattered nearly 5 million tons of debris across Western Jamaica, hindering crews from delivering aid and restoring critical services promptly. According to reports, crews are still working to clear roads, attempting to reach 27 communities cut off by landslides and flooding. Many of those communities are still without power and Wi-Fi. The category five storm killed at least 32 people in Jamaica and another 43 in nearby Haiti, where 13 people remain missing. Here in the United States, the head of the Congressional Black Caucus, New York Congresswoman Yvette
Clarke, is working feverishly with the State Department to ensure help is coming from the United States to the affected Caribbean nations, particularly Jamaica. Both of the New York Congresswoman’s par-
This Week In Black History A Courier Staple
• NOVEMBER 12
1775—General George Washington, first president and “father of the country” issues an order barring free Blacks from serving in the army as the U.S. struggled for independence from England. Washington was also a slave owner. The slave owning aristocracy felt if free Blacks fought for America’s liberation they would demand freedom for their enslaved brothers and sisters. Despite Washington’s order, hundreds of Blacks did fight in the Revolutionary War.
ents immigrated to the United States from Jamaica. Clarke has been a strong advocate for Caribbean issues and serves as co-chair of the Congressional Caribbean Caucus. According to a State Department website, “Within hours, Secretary [Marco] Rubio deployed a regional Disaster Assistance Response Team, including urban search-and-rescue teams, to assess needs and provide search and recovery assistance. The State Department also indicates it “is collaborating with UN agencies, NGOs, and host governments to deliver food, water, medical supplies, hygiene kits, temporary shelter, and search and rescue support.” Iconic and award-winning actress, activist, and Jamaican native Sheryl Lee Ralph said on The Tea with April, “It is exactly one week later, and there are some people who have not had anybody come to help them, nobody!” Ralph emoted,” It’s rough. We need help there now.” She is calling on all the people who have “enjoyed the beaches in Jamaica” to help by finding trusted places you know and making a donation, as the storm’s destruction has halted the normalcy of life on the island.” Ralph provided an update on some areas that hold personal significance for her. “The school that my parents helped build lost their roof. They’re trying to figure out where we’re gonna put these kids, how we’re gonna get them back into school, all of these things, and it’s like I can see where we’re going afterwards, but how do we start to get the help there now?”
The actresses’ children have also started a donation center at their facility, Walk Good LA, to help address some of the dire needs in Jamaica. Her family used the same space for donations to help the victims of the L.A. fires earlier this year.
1900—Henry Ossawa Tanner becomes an internationally acclaimed artist as he takes a silver medal for his art displayed at the Paris Exposition. Nearly 7,000 artists had entered their works. The Pittsburgh-born Tanner had numerous major works including his painting called “The Banjo Lesson.”
1922—Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. is founded by seven Black women in Indianapolis, Ind. The sorority grows to become one of the largest in the nation.
1977—Ernest “Dutch” Morial is elected the first Black mayor of New Orleans, La.
1994—Track and field great and Olympics star Wilma Rudolph dies in Nashville, Tenn., at the age of 54.
1996—Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. Officially joines the National Pan Hellenic Council turing the “Elite 8” Into The “Divine 9”
• NOVEMBER 13
1839—The Liberty Party—the nation’s first anti-slavery political party—is formed in Warsaw, N.Y. Among the founders were legendary abolitionists Samuel Ringgold Ward and Henry Highland Garnet. At this point in history the two major political parties—the Whigs and the Democrats—were both pro-slavery.
1913—Pioneering Black surgeon Daniel Hale Williams becomes a member of the American College of Surgeons. Williams is generally credited with being the first American doctor to perform open heart surgery. The history-making event took place in Chicago on July 9, 1893.
1922—Many Black historians have selected this as the date which marks the beginning of the Harlem Renaissance—perhaps the greatest period of artistic achievement by African-Americans in U.S. history. From poetry to plays and from paintings to sculptures, Black art reached a pinnacle. In a broader sense, the Harlem Renaissance ran from the early 1920s to the mid 1930s.
1951—Ballerina Janet Collins becomes the first Black woman to dance with the Metropolitan Opera Co. in New York City. Prior to that achievement she performed with the world-renowned Black dance troupe directed by the legendary Katherine Dunham.
1955—Whoopi Goldberg, given name Caryn Johnson, is born in New York City. She graduates from a stand-up comedy routine to become a major Hollywood actress and is currently one of the principal hosts of the television talk show “The View.”
1956—The United States Supreme Court upholds a lower court ruling which banned segregation on public buses in Montgomery, Ala. The decision was forced in major measure by a year-long Black bus boycott sparked by the refusal of Rosa Parks to give up her seat to a White man. Leadership of the boycott also launched the civil rights career of Martin Luther King Jr. and his status as the national Black leader.
1967—Carl Stokes wins the race for mayor in Cleveland, Ohio. In doing so, he becomes the first Black mayor of a major American city.
1985—New York Met Dwight Gooden becomes the youngest pitcher ever to win the Cy Young award.
• NOVEMBER 14
1915—Booker T. Washington dies in Tuskegee, Ala. Washington was easily one of the top five most influential Black leaders in African-American history. Some considered him too accommodating to
Whites, but his influence was still significant. Among the educator’s lasting accomplishments was the founding of Tuskegee Institute. He was only 59 when he died.
• NOVEMBER 16
1780—Paul Cuffee organizes a demonstration by free Blacks protesting the fact that they were being taxed but were not allowed to vote. Cuffee was a prominent whaling captain and businessman who organized the first integrated school in Massachusetts. In his later years he became frustrated with American racism and advocated the establishment of a free Black colony in the West African nation of Sierra Leone which was then controlled by the British.
1873—W.C. Handy is born in Florence, Ala. The prolific composer and publisher would become known as “The Father of The Blues.” Handy helped move the blues from just a musical genre among low income Blacks to national status. His works became so popular that his 84th birthday was celebrated at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City and drew a crowd of more than 800 blues enthusiasts. Handy’s full name was William Christopher Handy.
1963—Zina Garrison is born in Houston, Texas. She would go on to win 37 professional tennis titles, an Olympic gold medal and finish runner-up at Wimbledon in 1990.
1967—Lisa Bonet is born to a Jewish mother and a Black father in San Francisco, Calif. She becomes a major actress but is perhaps best known for her role in the 1980s television series “The Cosby Show.” Her given name was Liliquois Moon.
2001—Agbani Darego is crowned Miss World becoming the first Black African to win the coveted beauty pageant. She was from the oil-rich West African nation of Nigeria.
• NOVEMBER 17
1842—Fugitive slave George Latimer is arrested in Boston, setting in motion a legal battle between North and South over the degree to which free states were required to aid slave states in capturing escaped slaves. The Latimer incident was resolved when at least 100 Black men surrounded the jail where Latimer was being held. Fearing for his safety if he tried to take Latimer back South, the slave owner decided to “sell” Latimer and left with a small amount of money and no slave.
1911—The Omega Psi Phi fraternity is founded on the campus of Howard University in Washington, D.C. It goes on to become one of the largest and most influential Black Greek-letter organizations.
1972—Despite massive Black voter support for the Democrat George McGovern, Republican Richard M. Nixon is elected president carrying all states except Massachusetts and the District of Columbia. The Black view of Nixon would later be vindicated when he is forced from office because of the Watergate scandal. Nixon was referred to as “tricky dick.”
• NOVEMBER 18
1797—Abolitionist and orator Sojourner Truth is born Isabella Baumfree in Ulster County, N.Y. She struggled for an end to slavery and for a woman’s right to vote. She became so well known that she even consulted with President Abraham Lincoln.
1977—White supremacist and terrorist Robert Edward Chambliss is convicted of first degree murder in connection with the 1963 bombing of Birmingham, Alabama’s 16th Street Baptist Church. The bombing killed four little Black girls, shocked the nation and helped mobilize the civil rights movement.
1993—Black majority rule comes to South Africa as Black and White leaders reach agreement on a democratic constitution that gave Blacks the right to vote and ended Apartheid—the system of laws and regulations which had maintained White minority rule.
On Oct. 10, Pittsburgh Public Schools (PPS) proudly celebrated the grand opening of its groundbreaking “Emerging Educators” Career and Technical Education (CTE) Program at Pittsburgh Brashear High School. Designed to cultivate a homegrown pipeline of future teachers, the program provides students with real-world classroom experience, industry-recognized certifications, and college credits, all within their own school community. The Oct. 10 celebration also marked the launch of a new partnership with Point Park University, which enables students to earn at least 15 college credits while still in high school, giving them a meaningful head start
towards a degree in education.
“Today marks an important milestone in how we invest in our students and the future of our district,” said Superintendent Dr. Wayne N. Walters, in a release. “I want to thank the dedicated team at Pittsburgh Brashear, our CTE Department, and our partners at Point Park University for their vision and commitment to creating a pathway for students to explore a career in education. I am especially proud of the students who stepped into this program, future educators who will one day stand in front of classrooms much like their own. Through ‘Emerging Educators,’ we are building something lasting for our schools and our community.”
The “Emerging Educators” Program gives students immersive exposure to the teaching profession through classroom internships, co-teaching experiences, and placements across various grade levels. Participants will graduate with key credentials, including: Act 31 Mandated Reporter OSHA Safety Training ALICE (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate) Training AED Essentials, CPR, and First Aid Bloodborne & Airborne Pathogens
In addition, students can earn a minimum of 15 articulated college credits toward an education degree at Point Park University, with further opportunities available through dual enrollment, Advanced Placement (AP), and College-inHigh-School programs, giving them a significant advantage on their postsecondary journey.
“Solving the teacher shortage requires more than recruitment. It means empowering our own students to become the educators of tomorrow by seeing teaching not just as a career, but
as a calling,” said Angela Mike, Executive Director of Career and Technical Education, in release.
“The ‘Emerging Educators’ CTE Program does exactly that, especially in the communities where great teachers are needed most.”
Through the program’s soft launch last year, students began gaining valuable insight and foundational skills for a future in teaching. The grand opening and ribbon-cutting celebrated the launch of an accelerated pathway now available through the new partnership with Point Park University, ex-
panding opportunities for students to earn college credit while preparing for careers in education.
The event also honored retired PPS educator Hannah McCarthy with a classroom dedication and commemorative plaque. Ms. McCarthy, who previously taught in Brashear’s teaching magnet program, had long envisioned expanding the pathway for students interested in education. With the “Emerging Educators” CTE Program now offering articulation and college credit through Point Park University, that vision is fully realized.
THE CELEBRATION OF THE NEW EMERGING EDUCATORS CTE PROGRAM AT PPS.
A STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE FROM THE EMERGING EDUCATORS COHORT.
Frances S. Diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma Breast Cancer
Pennsylvania's new Sports Hall of Famers
Dr. Karen Hall, Sam Clancy, Swin Cash Canal, Charlie Batch and Michael Moorer were among those inducted into the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame on Oct. 18, 2025. The awards ceremony was held at the Sheraton Hotel Station Square. See the entire list of inductees for 2025 at: pasportshof.org/inductees
BOXING CHAMPION MICHAEL MOORER, CENTER, WAS RAISED IN MONESSEN, PA. ALSO PICTURED ARE WTAE-TV’S ANDREW STOCKEY AND PENNSYLVANIA SPORTS HALL OF FAME PRESIDENT DANN CARR. (PHOTOS BY CHIEF IKHANA-HAL-MAKINA)
BASKETBALL STARS DR. KAREN HALL AND SWIN CASH CANAL.
SUPER BOWL-WINNING QUARTERBACK CHARLIE BATCH
FOOTBALL AND BASKETBALL STAR, SAM CLANCY
Class of 2025 Honorees
Sarah Ashmeg
Principal Medical Physicist, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center; Clinical Assistant Professor, University of Pittsburgh, Department of Radiation Oncology
Tonya Baker-Nelson
Customer Service Representative, Duquesne Light Co.;
Owner/Event Coordinator, Strictly Business Creations
Allegra Battle Communications Manager
Propel Schools
Amber D. Benjamin
Diversity & Inclusion Program Manager PNC Bank
Kelley L. Benson
Vice President of Human Resources & Inclusion Innovation Works
Charlyn R. Booker, MSW, LBS Program Assistant, ACTES, Greater Valley Community Services; CEO/Founder, Urban Therapy, LLC
Staci L. Bose, MS Program Manager, Healthy Start, Inc.; Founder/Owner, Healing Uplifting Growing Spiritually, LLC
Leonette M. Brown, BSN, RN National RN Case Manager Consultant AMN Healthcare Revenue Cycle Solutions
Diana P. Byas, MSN, ACRN, CCM Manager, Maternity Baby Steps Program, UPMC Health Plan; CEO, Thick But Fit Crew Fitness Center
Michelle Tunstalle Chapman Human Resources Manager VisitPITTSBURGH
Dr. Dorothy Collins
Vice President for Enrollment Services and Student Affairs Community College of Allegheny County
Dr. Kyaien Conner
Donald M. Henderson Endowed Professor and Director, Center on Race and Social Problems
University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work
Dr. Kymberly M. Cruz
Executive Director, Office of Equity Pittsburgh Public Schools
Monica Cwynar
Mental Health Therapist, Thriveworks; Clinical Director, Cultural Humility & Equity Collaborative
Danielle Edmond
President Fabulous Friday Society Foundation
Tesha L. Ellison, MBA, SHRM SCP Benefits and HRIS Manager Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh
Dr. Edda L. Fields-Black
Director, Dietrich College of Humanities Center and Professor of History
Carnegie Mellon University
Paulette Foster Co-Founder
The Education Rights Network, Campaign 412 Justice
Tiffany L. Gary-Webb, PhD, MHS Professor of Epidemiology University of Pittsburgh
Tiffany Gilbert Co-Founder and Executive Director, East Liberty Women’s Care Center; Pastor, Another Level Ministries
LaToya Hamm-Wilson Founder & CEO Motherhood Redefined
Dr. Wanda Heading-Grant Vice Provost for Community, Culture and Engagement Carnegie Mellon University
Charlene Holder Assistant Director, Secretary & Chief Examiner City of Pittsburgh
First Lady, Elder Darla R. Holley-Holmes Supervisor, MPACT U Afterschool Academy, Southwestern PA Human Services Family Center; Administrative Specialist, Monessen Beyond Grad, SPHS Family Center Youth Economic Mobility Program
Yolanda Rodgers Howsie Northeast Regional Director, Workplace Initiatives United Negro College Funds
Errika Fearbry Jones
Chief of Staff/Secretary to the Board of Trustees Carlow University
Dr. Troy D. B. Lyons
Medical Director in Utilization Management Highmark Wholecare
Simone McMeans
Deputy Director of Economic Development, Allegheny County; Founder, S.H.E.ternally, LLC
Jessica Mitchell
EVP, CFO-Line of Business
PNC Financial Services Group
Karen Mitchell
Behavioral Health Manager, Focus on Renewal
StoRox ACTES Program; Founder/Executive Director, Leading Through Love
Ashanti Mitchell-Drewery, MBA
Vice President of Business Operations
M&A Resources
Shalesha G. ‘Shay’ Moore
Executive Board Member for Early Childhood Paraprofessionals, Pittsburgh Federation of Teachers; Founder & Director, NextUp Summer Camp
Felicia Mycyk
Keynote Speaker & Performance Coach, Mycyk Coaching & Consulting; Rotary District Governor, Southwestern PA
Danielle M. Parson
Founder & CEO
Professional Women’s Network (PWN)
Shayla R. Penn Food Personality/Culinary Expert (Advocate) Burgh Eats and Treats!
Bridgette Perdue Executive Director Alumni Theater Company
Lisa J. Perry
Director, Programs & Events, Grantmakers of Western Pa.; President & CEO, Take Flight Productions Consulting
Joveline J. Pettus, MBA, SPHR Adjunct Professor, Computer Science
La Roche University
Phd Candidate, Information Systems & Communications
Robert Morris University
Dr. Rosalie Smiley
Social Work Professor Emeritus PennWest University of Western PA
Dawnese LaShawn Snell
Nurse Manager, Primary Care, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System; President Elect, Pittsburgh Black Nurses in Action
Alisa R. Stroud
Human Resources Director, AMP Home Care; Senior Pastor, Living Proof Kingdom Ministries Int. Naima Karmil Sturdivant, MEd
Special Education Teacher, Woodland Hills School District; Vice President, Triple S-Serving and Saving Souls
Sheila M. Thompson, MEd Owner, Thompson Creative Images, LLC; Retired, Business, Computer, Information Technology Teacher, Woodland Hills School District
Tahirah J. Walker, PhD
Department Chair, Community Engagement and Leadership Point Park University’s Rowland School of Business
Shanyn Winnowski
Manager of Participant Learning, Pennsylvania Women Work; Founder, Pillar Pittsburgh
Take Charge Of Your Health Today. Be Informed. Be Involved.
Honoring veterans with care, resources, and opportunities
This month’s health focus is on wheelchair users, including veterans who we honor nationally on Nov. 11. The topic includes information from Pitt’s Dr. Worobey whose research is about helping wheelchair users learn skills that increase their independence and quality of life.
Esther L. Bush, Interim President and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh offers her insight into how the UL supports all wheelchair users.
Esther: First, I’d like to thank all our veterans for their courage, dedication, and strength. At the Urban League, we remain committed to
uplifting every member of our community, including our neighbors who live with disabilities and our veterans who have sacrificed so much. Many veterans return home facing physical, emotional, or financial barriers and some require wheelchairs or other mobility support to live full, independent lives.
The UL is dedicated to helping them access the full range of benefits and resources they’ve earned through their service. That includes programs that provide stable housing, employment support, benefits navigation, and comprehensive services for them and their families. Our goal is to ensure no one is left behind, especially veterans.
In this month’s health feature, Dr. Worobey talks about peer-topeer mentoring— where wheelchair users learn from other, more experienced wheelchair users instead of a healthcare provider. Why is it important to build connections between people with lived experience? Are there any UL programs that use peer-to-peer support?
Esther: Lived experience is a powerful teacher. When a person learns from someone who truly understands their daily reality, the impact goes beyond skill-building. It builds
confidence, belonging, and community. In our workforce development, reentry, and youth mentorship programs, we intentionally involve mentors who share lived experiences with participants. Whether someone is navigating disability, poverty, the criminal justice system, or a major life transition, connecting with someone who has walked that same path can be transformative. Peer support builds trust faster, breaks down stigma, and reminds people they’re not alone.
Q: Thank you, Esther.
Virtual peer coaching helps wheelchair users gain independence
For our country’s approximately 5.5 million wheelchair users, learning to use their chairs fully, safely, and sustainably is key to an independent and abundant life. Indeed, studies show if a wheelchair user’s skill level is low, so is their participation in and quality of life.
Wheelchair skills include movements like entering and exiting doors, navigating curbs, gaps, and thresholds, going up and down stairs, and moving from a wheelchair to a car, bus, or T—all without injury.
In a perfect world, a comprehensive wheelchair skills program would be taught by therapists before a patient is discharged from rehab and continue during outpatient therapy. Unfortunately, there are barriers to this type of program.
In a recent study, only 55 percent of wheelchair users reported receiving basic skills training before discharge. (Basic skills include things like how to push a wheelchair and maneuver in tight spaces.) Only 10 percent reported learning advanced skills.
The low percentages are due, in part, to a lack of therapist training. In a survey of occupational therapists, 25 percent reported receiving no manual wheelchair skills training, while 38 percent received less than 5 hours on basic skills.
Therapist also have less time to teach wheelchair skills. In the last 35 years, the length of rehab has de-
creased from 98 days to 37.
There are also competing concerns. “Patients with recent spinal cord injuries may be determined to relearn how to walk or focus on nerve recovery,” says University of Pittsburgh’s Dr. Lynn Worobey. “That can take time away from learning mobility skills.”
Dr. Worobey is Assistant Professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and co-director of Pitt’s Model Center on Spinal Cord Injury (SCI). She studies SCI assistive technology, functional mobility, training programs, activity monitoring, and wheelchair quality. Her most recent research focuses, in part, on supplementing clinical training with a virtual, direct-to-user manual wheelchair skills program that’s taught using a peer mentor method. Unlike previous successful in-person programs, this one takes place via video chat sessions.
“Virtual technology costs less than in-person sessions and reaches a wider audience,” Dr. Worobey explains. “The technology breaks down transportation barriers that can prevent people from learning in-person and connects them with peers from diverse backgrounds.”
Because it costs less, Dr. Worobey is hopeful rehab centers, community-based programs, and advocacy groups can better support it. “It could also create additional income opportunities
by employing more people with spinal cord injuries who don’t need clinical degrees,” she adds. In the study, peer mentors serve as wheelchair skills ‘coaches’ who share via video chat what they’ve learned navigating and mastering real-world mobility obstacles. “They’re passing along their lived experience,” says Dr. Worobey. “They’re teaching people how to do different types of wheelies, for example, or move smoothly from one type of surface to another or get safely on a subway from a platform.”
The lived experience increases a coach’s credibility, too. “The peer coaches are people who go to work, raise families, play adaptive sports—all while using a wheelchair,” she adds.
There are other benefits to the peer mentor method. It gives wheelchair users emotional, practical, and informational support. It
provides a boost in confidence and self-esteem. It offers hope for the future by helping users see it’s possible to live an active, full life. It provides encouragement, friendship, and a sense of equality with peers. It normalizes the challenges and limitations people face when they use a wheelchair.
“Watching other wheelchair users demonstrate skills is important to the learning process,” says Dr. Worobey. “It motivates and empowers people in a profound way. As it decreases activity limitations it increases independence and life satisfaction.”
Timing is critical, too, which may be better supported by virtual training versus in-person. “Peer training can be a particularly important resource early after discharge from rehab,” Dr. Worobey ex-
plains. “That’s a time when new users are vulnerable to isolation and low levels of physical and social activity. She continues, “We tend to also see larger gains for new wheelchair users compared to those with many years of experience. However, even experienced individuals who participated in our training—some of them 30 years after they were injured—still experienced meaningful improvements.”
The value of peer mentor training even extends to health outcomes. “People with spinal cord injuries who are independently mobile have been shown to have greater subjective well-being, participation, and health,” Dr. Worobey adds.
It’s good news for people whose mobility is wheelchair based. “After a spinal cord injury or neurological
disorder, a person may feel their life is less than it was,” she says. “This new virtual program may help to change that by making it easier and faster for them to learn the skills they need to live fully and joyfully on wheels.”
Dr. Worobey encourages readers to listen to and amplify wheelchair users’ voices. For example, look around your neighborhood from a mobility standpoint. How might a wheelchair user attend your church, visit a local bank, barber or beauty shop, or catch the bus or T? If there are physical barriers, identify them and make local leaders aware. Readers can also support inclusive policies when they vote and challenge ableism.
NOTE: Dr. Worobey’s study also includes remote wheelchair skills training for clinicians.
Helping wheelchair users live life to the fullest
In Pittsburgh, the local chapter of the United Spinal Association proudly represents the country’s 5.5 million wheelchair users. The national organization got its start when paralyzed World War II vets came home to a nation that was inaccessible. They made it their mission to create a fully inclusive society.
Today, the PGH chapter honors those vets and others by using modern tools to directly provide unparalleled service and
resources to its members and the broader community of people with disabilities.
The group’s aim is to ensure all wheelchair users realize their full potential and live life to the fullest. Motivated by the values of compassion, inclusion, passion, integrity, innovation, and accountability, the chapter is focused on recreational activities and opportunities, membership engagement and interaction, peer-topeer support for newly injured individuals and
Pitt’s CAT team tailors mobility solutions to wheelchair users’ needs and goals
The University of Pittsburgh’s Center for Assistive Technology (CAT), part of the UPMC Rehab Institute, specializes in services and/or products that help wheelchair users increase their mobility. The CAT is an interdisciplinary team with multiple outpatient clinics that offer products and services
their families, and local and statewide advocacy for the SCI (spinal cord
injury) and wheelchair community. Everyone is welcome to
based on the client’s individual needs and goals. That includes manual and power wheelchair evaluations, personal mobility seating and positioning systems, recreational devices, and wheelchair skills training with Drs. Rachel Hibbs and Lynn Worobey at UPMC Mercy. All members of the CAT have advanced training in assistive technology and are committed to staying current with the latest offerings. The team includes medical doctors and doctors of Osteopath-
ic Medicine and physician assistants specializing in physical medicine and rehab, occupational and physical therapists who are also certified Assistive Technology Professionals, rehab engineers, and assistive technology suppliers and manufacturers. Their goal is to listen carefully to and design solutions for the client who is the expert on what works best.
For more information, visit upmc.com/services/ rehab/crs/services/cat
participate in the chapter’s events as well as the organization’s peer support and advocacy efforts, including people with SCI and their friends, family, and caregivers.
For more information about upcoming events,
local research, peer support, and more, visit unitedspinalpgh.org.
ESTHER L. BUSH
DR. LYNN WOROBEY
Mayor Gainey celebrated during final 'State of the City Address' Gainey said he led with 'heart, fairness,
Gainey. And that’s most likely why Council chambers was packed, standing room only, as Pittsburgh's first Black mayor gave his address on the morning of Nov. 10. Everyone in the room knew it was the last time, at least in this term, that Mayor Gainey would give his "State of the City Address," as Corey O'Connor prepares to take over as Pittsburgh mayor in January 2026.
“My team worked tirelessly to build a city for all," Mayor Gainey said to a crowd that cheered, screamed, and shed tears.
"One where hatred and division could not take root, where safety and opportunity belong to everyone. We created new pathways for every resident to thrive. Today, I am proud to say that as I prepare to leave office, I leave our city in a stronger position even amid challenging times. We’ve built a government guided not by outside interests, but by the steadfast belief that what’s best for the people of Pittsburgh must always come first."
Technically, the speech is supposed to be more of a budget address, which informs City Council on where the city is from a financial perspective as 2025 ends and 2026 begins. But one couldn't escape the elephant in the room —in a city that's losing Black population by the day, Gainey was still
able to prevail in a November 2021 General Election to become the city's first Black mayor...but also didn't garner enough votes to see a second term. Why he wasn't able to attain that second term is a question that has city residents throwing out all kinds of opinions. No matter the reason or reasons, Monday, Nov. 10's "budget address" was more of a "celebration" for a mayor that, in some Black residents' minds, has not been treated or evaluated as fairly as previous White Pittsburgh mayors.
A growing homelessness situation in Downtown and the North Shore, Mayor Gainey said, didn't begin with his administration; rather, the 2020 COVID pandemic shouldered much of the blame. Still, he said his administration worked tirelessly to remedy the problem, which included housing the unhoused and reimaging Downtown Pittsburgh.
"The results have been undeniable: a $600 million reinvestment plan, over 1,000 planned units of new housing, Market Square renovations, the new Arts Landing Park, a police substation, public restrooms, the 500 in 500 initiative, and the NFL Draft," Mayor Gainey said, Nov. 10. "In the last four years we have brought Downtown back from the brink and positioned it for a stable and successful future."
The "500 in 500" ini-
tiative was the city and county's plan to get 500 people who were unhoused into housing units within 500 days, a feat that was achieved and celebrated by, among others, Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato, in October 2025.
Mayor Gainey talked about how he worked with the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh to create an Affordable Housing Bond which would infiltrate $32 million for residential housing.
"Two years ago we said that this bond would allow us to produce or preserve more than a thousand fully affordable homes over three years, and I am proud to report that the URA is on track to meet that goal before the end of next year ensuring that every family has a place to call home," Mayor Gainey said.
The mayor definitely discussed the reduction of gun violence in the city. Pittsburgh, for 2025, is on track to have the lowest number of homicides in at least eight years.
And, the mayor said, "Remarkably, in 2024, there were no homicide deaths among our youth ages 13 to 17. These aren’t just numbers. These are lives saved, families kept intact, futures protected."
Among those who were in the audience for the mayor's address were Black Political Empowerment Project Chairman and CEO Tim Stevens,
Emmy-Award winning filmmaker Emmai Alaquiva, Explore Pittsburgh Tech Week founder and entrepreneur Kenya Porter, entrepreneur Fantasy Zellars, and local community activist Yvonne Rainey. All of them understood the gravity of what they were witnessing—Pittsburgh's first Black mayor, highlighting his accomplishments over the past four years, as the crowd gave him the love back. Also, Taliaferro said, "there wasn't just one type of person in that (chambers); people of all races and backgrounds, ages, people who served under Gainey, people who supported his campaign, people who really stood behind him over the last four
years. To see people cheer for him and shout his name, it showed so much power, impact and influence he's had over the past four years as mayor."
In his closing remarks, Mayor Gainey thanked his wife, Michelle, "who has been beside me every step of this journey." He thanked the community organizations and members, the businesses, and his staff, "who carried the burden and the joy of public service alongside me: I could not have done this without you. Thank you."
And as the tears flowed from some audience members, Mayor Gainey closed his final "State of the City Address" with: "Thank you, Pittsburgh, for believing in my administration’s
journey toward a more just, humane, and prosperous future for every one of us. It has been an honor to serve as your mayor. I am profoundly grateful for the partnership, trust, and hope that the people of this great city placed in me. Together, we’ve shown that when we lead with heart, fairness, and purpose, we can build a city that truly works for everyone. So, let us not return to the ways of old that may have felt comfortable, but held us back. Instead, let us keep moving forward with courage, with vision, and with an unwavering commitment to growth. That’s what progress looks like; not perfection, but persistence."
Meet Homestead Mayor-elect Mary Nesby
It's about real work, not a title, Nesby said
title," Mayor-elect Nesby told the Courier. "This is about being consistent and showing up every single time, even when you don't want to, even when I'm grieving, even when there's trauma going on in my household, you still have to show up in these spaces, and we don't get paid a lot of money to do that." For those wondering, Homestead's mayor receives as low as $125 and as high as $175 per month as budgeted over the past four years and approved by Homestead Borough Council. Homestead has a population of nearly 3,000, with nearly 60 percent of the residents identifying as African American. Mayor-elect Nesby said even though she will no longer have a vote on Homestead Borough Council, she'll become the official "face" of the borough, and she feels she can make faster connections with other people
and community groups to bring more resources to Homestead's residents. "I now don't have to wait for seven votes to get something done," Mayor-elect Nesby told the Courier.
Mayor-elect Nesby, who has no problem speaking up for herself and Homestead residents, said she's ready to get things done. She wants to restore the trust between Homestead police and the community, create pathways to economic stability, have job training, workforce programs and small business development programs.
"I reached the point where I wanted to be more than just a vote," Mayor-elect Nesby told the Courier. "I wanted to lead. Serving on Council, it gave me valuable insight on how the system works, showed me where the systems fall short for the people. I saw a lot of missed opportunities for collaboration and real community impact, and I feel like I have a bigger platform to
bring people together."
Mayor-elect Nesby will replace John Burwell, who, in 2022, became Homestead's first Black mayor. Betty Esper was Homestead's longtime mayor, serving first in the early '90s, then returning in 1998 and stayed in the mayoral chair until her retirement in early 2022, when Burwell took over. "In order to create lasting change, the kind that heals, uplifts and unites, we needed leadership that can bring people together around a shared vision,"
Mayor-elect Nesby said. "As mayor I have the ability to set the tone, lead with compassion, transparency and accountability. My decision to step into this role came from love, love for Homestead, love for our people, and love for the generations coming after us.
Mayor-elect Nesby added: "This isn't about power; it's about purpose."
FIRST LADY MICHELLE GAINEY CHEERS FOR HER HUSBAND, MAYOR ED GAINEY.
WINNERS—CARLA L. PAYNE-HARRISON WON HER BID FOR WEST MIFFLIN COUNCIL, AND MARY NESBY IS LESS THAN TWO MONTHS FROM OFFICIALLY BECOMING MAYOR OF HOMESTEAD. (PHOTO BY CHIEF IKHANA-HAL-MAKINA) NESBY FROM A1
Heritage Gospel Chorale
Pre-Thanksgiving Concert
The Heritage Gospel Chorale of Pittsburgh will be presenting a pre-Thanksgiving Concert at the St. Paul United Methodist Church, 1965 Furgerson Road, Allison Park, on Sunday, Nov. 23, at 4 p.m. The performance is a benefit for the Warren United Methodist Church in Pittsburgh. The mission of the Heritage Gospel Chorale is to perform high quality choral music in the Pittsburgh region and across the United States. The Chorale is founded and conducted by the renowned Pittsburgh-area music director, Dr. Herbert V.R.P. Jones.
COURIER CHURCH DIRECTORY
BAPTIST TEMPLE CHURCH
Sunday Worship: 8 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.
7241 Race Street Pittsburgh, Pa., 15208
Pastor—Rev. Dr. Rodney Adam Lyde
Hill District Federal Credit Union Annual Meeting
The Hill District Federal Credit Union invites all to join them for a night of celebration, reflection, and inspiration at their 54th Annual Meeting on Friday, Nov. 21, at 6 p.m. at Ebenezer Baptist Church, 2001 Wylie Ave., Hill District. Tammy Thompson, President and CEO
of Catapult Greater Pittsburgh, is the guest speaker—a leader whose work continues to empower families and strengthen communities across the region. Tickets are $25, and all proceeds help the credit union expand their financial education and community outreach pro -
grams. You can stop by the Credit Union or call 412-281-0822 to reserve your seat today.
EBENEZER MISSIONARY
BAPTIST CHURCH
Sunday Worship Service: 11 a.m.
Sr. Pastor—Rev. Dr. Vincent K. Campbell 2001 Wylie Avenue Pittsburgh, Pa., 15219 www.baptisttemple.church www.ebenezerbaptistpgh.org
“According as HIS DIVINE POWER hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of HIM that hath called US to GLORY and VIRTUE. Whereby are given unto US EXCEEDING GREAT and PRECIOUS PROMISES: that by these ye might be PARTAKERS of the DIVINE NATURE, having ESCAPED the corruption that is in the WORLD THROUGH LUST.” - 2 Peter 1:3-4
REV. WALKER SAYS: Please tell me what can be compared to SALVATION IN JESUS
Barbara A.
Senior Pastor—Rev. Laphon Flood-Francis
Pennybaker
TAMMY THOMPSON
DR. HERBERT V.R.P. JONES
A BAD DAY AT THE OFFICE
All you get with Rodgers is a thrill, empty pockets and ulcers
Calling all, calling all, calling all thrillionaires...
This column is dedicated to fools and "‘sponges of hype." Prior to the Pittsburgh Steelers traveling to Los Angeles, to face the Chargers, many Steeler fans were attached to the hips of the home team and "Vegas" and were duped to bet on the Black and Gold with their hearts and not their heads. Since the 2025 season began, I have been preaching about and I have been concerned about time of possession!
Joe Rutter posted a column on the triblive website titled: "Too many snaps, too few stops for
Steelers' defense in loss to Chargers." Rutter writes: “Repeating a theme that has been as consistent at the sun rising in the east and setting in the west, the defense played more snaps than the offense for the ninth time—or every game the Steelers have played in 2025. The Chargers (7-3) ran 69 plays to the Steelers’ 50 and possessed the ball for 37 minutes, 35 seconds while sending the Steelers (5-4) to their third loss in the past four games." He also quoted T.J. Watt as saying: “Good defenses spend a lot of time on the bench. We haven’t been doing that enough in totality this year.”
First of all, how is the defense going to spend time on the bench, when the offense doesn’t convert a fourth down until the fourth quarter and that was a garbage-like first down? Why was Aaron Rodgers sitting on the sidelines warming the pine? Why? Well, he developed "splinter-itis" because he was too sporadic and inconsistent to move the chains. Good offenses convert third downs, don’t they? Joe Rutter also pointed out that, “Coach Mike Tomlin pointed to his offense going 0 for 9 on third-down attempts before they converted twice on a touchdown drive late in the fourth quarter that established the final score. Those setbacks contributed to the Steelers possessing the ball for a season-low 22:25." So, who underachieved in this game on Nov. 9?
The reality is that when the lines become blurred, many pundits stand ready, willing and able to sharpen and fall on their swords to commit Hari-Kari to protect the honor of Aaron Rodgers, the protégé of Brett (the welfare king) Favre. Andrew Fillipponi of 93.7 The Fan said that: “Aaron Rodgers played the worst game that he had ever seen a Steelers quarterback play.” Rodgers' quarterback rating was 50.6 and Steelers Offensive Coordinator Arthur Smith got outcoached, again. Rodgers said, “I was just a little bit off.” Hey Sherlock, ya think?” Rogers finished the game, 16 of 31 for 161 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions. The former Green Bay Packers quarterback's passer rating was 50.6. Like I said in a previous column, if the Steelers defense doesn’t gift wrap a game for Aaron Rogers, 99.99 percent of the time, except when he is playing inferior teams, he can be expected to drop the ball, literally. Remember, Arthur Smith would not grant Russell Wilson full autonomy to change plays at the line of scrimmage... remember?
Prior to the 2025 season, the Steelers chased Rodgers around forever, hoping that he would sign with them. He trashed Aaron Glenn, the head coach of the New York Jets after Glenn decided not to resign him. Could Coach Glenn have been saying to himself: “I might be deaf, but I ain’t blind.” It seems that the Steelers were the ones with the blinders on. How could they not see that this guy was finished? Aaron Rodgers is all hype and no hope. He is a mumbling, bumbling fraud and there is not one semblance of doubt about that. I have been saying it all along.
Speaking of mumbling, let’s hit rewind, ladies and gents. Aaron Rodgers' performance against the Chargers reminded me of a character from the Dick Tracy comic books, Mumbles. Mumbles had a twisted mouth that caused him to mumble almost incoherently. There was usually someone saying, “What did he say?” and someone else translating what Mumbles said. Once, after the question was asked once too often, Mumbles slapped the offender silly. Anytime there is a mistake, Rodgers openly and publicly chastises the supposed offender.
From my studious standpoint, only the opposing defense can decipher and understand the game plan of the Steelers pseudo-Offensive Coordinator/starting QB Aaron Rodgers and his sidekick, assistant offensive coordinator Arthur Smith.
It appeared to me that Aaron Rodgers and Arthur Smith were on the sideline, humming a funeral home hymn for the Steelers chance of winning the AFC North. They have defrauded the Steelers out of millions and so far have the Steelers and the fans mumbling to themselves because no
sane person in the world of professional football can find any coherence in the offensive game plan or schematic of Aaron Rodgers and his sidekick, Arthur Smith.
Rodgers had the nerve to say: "Whatever it takes. I got to make, you know, if it's better checks, if it's better throws, whatever it is, I got to play better. I will, you know, but we got to bounce back."
Aaron, you used the totally incorrect pronoun to describe your putrid performance. It is not “we” that has to come back, it is “you.” Calling all, calling all, calling all thril-
lionaires... "So sorry, Charlie Chan forgot to tell people eating at the restaurant to remove earplugs. Also, did not want to disturb ‘Jimmy the Greek,’ I missed the do-not-disturb sign posted on his tombstone.” Charlie also meant to tell yinz to remove the "do not disturb" sign from the Steelers' offensive playbook. FYI, Andrew Vasquez posted on USA
Today: "Steelers HC Mike Tomlin linked to Giants' vacant head coach job after Brian Daboll firing."
Remember when Mike Tomlin was falsely linked to various college head
coaching jobs? And so it begins, again. The poopoo, la, la chronicles will again guess in the thick of the mess that if they can pay James Franklin off, it should be a piece of cake to assassinate the wallet and the character of Mike Tomlin. The only things that you will get if you bet on Aaron Rodgers is a thrill, empty pockets and ulcers.
STEELERS QUARTERBACK AARON RODGERS had his worst day as a Pittsburgh Steeler in the 25-10 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, Nov. 9. (Photo by Marlon Martin)
STEELERS QUARTERBACK AARON RODGERS (PHOTO BY MARLON MARTIN)
THE CHARGERS’ LADD MCCONKEY LEAPS FOR A PASS IN THEIR GAME AGAINST THE STEELERS, NOV. 9, 2025. (PHOTO BY MARLON MARTIN)
The war on drug boats
BUSINESS
When ZIP codes dictate worth
Appraisal gaps in Black neighborhoods
In America, a home is not simply a place to live, it is a statement of value. It reflects how society measures worth, stability, and belonging. Yet, for far too many Black homeowners, that value is discounted the moment the address is entered into a database.
Homes in majority-Black neighborhoods are routinely undervalued, even when comparable in structure, square footage, and amenities to those in White neighborhoods. The Brookings Institution found that homes in majority-Black areas are appraised at an average of $48,000 less than similar homes in non-Black neighborhoods, a cumulative loss exceeding $156 billion nationwide. That
figure represents more than lost dollars. It is the extraction of equity, the quiet theft of intergenerational wealth, and the economic marginalization of entire communities.
The Historical Architecture of Devaluation
To understand the present disparity, one must look at how property valuation itself evolved. During the New Deal era, federal housing maps color-coded neighborhoods by “risk.” Predominantly Black communities were outlined in red “hazardous” and denied mortgage capital. Over time, those same maps shaped urban investment patterns, steering private capital away while concentrating poverty and disinvestment.
Even as redlining was outlawed, its logic persisted. Appraisers continued to use “comparable sales” drawn from racially homogeneous neighborhoods, embedding bias into the very algorithm of valuation. Thus, devaluation is not incidental; it is inherited. The same institutional frameworks that once banned Black buyers from neighborhoods now systematically reduce the value of the neighborhoods they built.
How Undervaluation Shapes the Black Wealth Gap
Appraisal bias does not end at closing; it compounds over time. Lower valuations limit a homeowner’s ability to refinance, invest in home improvements, or leverage equity to start a business or fund education. When the time comes to sell, the return is smaller, curbing the ability to move upward or assist the next generation in purchasing their own property.
This is how the wealth gap reproduces itself. According to the Center for American Progress,
(Family Features)—A comfortable retirement is something most people aspire to, and there are many paths to plan for that phase of life. While many employers offer retirement savings plans as a workplace benefit, small business owners, whose time and resources are already at a premium, often face barriers—including hours of administrative work, additional costs and compliance liabilities—when setting up these plans for their employees. Today, many small business owners understand the power of offering a retirement plan, such as a 401(k), to attract and retain top talent and provide additional financial security for their employees. In fact, a retirement plan is the benefit most wanted by workers after health insurance, according to a survey commissioned by 401(k) provider Human Interest. Many states have passed or enacted laws requiring most employers to offer retirement plans for employees. Currently, 20 states have passed leg-
fer 401(k)s, which make it easier for employees to save and access their funds. If you’re a small business owner setting up a retirement plan, these considerations can simplify the process while helping employees save for retirement.
Add Auto-Enroll to Your 401(k) Plan
Many people intend to save for retirement, but don’t take the necessary steps to enroll in a plan. Plans that include an automatic enrollment feature help overcome this inertia by automatically collecting deferrals from employees’ compensation each pay period unless they opt out of participation.
SECURE 2.0 mandates auto-enroll for most 401(k) plans established after Dec. 29, 2022. If your plan is not subject to the requirement, consider adding it voluntarily. Ultimately, auto-enroll can help contribute to a more financially secure workforce by
up to 25 percent of the total compensation paid to eligible employees for the year.
SECURE 2.0 also introduced a tax credit for matching contributions for small employers with new plans. Employers should be aware the tax credit is an alternative to the deduction; the employer can’t claim both in the same year.
Pick a Platform Designed for Small Businesses
islation for state-mandated retirement programs and 13 states have active programs. Legislation is currently being considered in an additional 28 states.
Employers can opt out of state-mandated retirement programs by offering a 401(k) plan, simplifying compliance for business owners. Federal regulations, such as SECURE 2.0, introduced incentives and requirements for business owners who of-
encouraging consistent savings habits.
Take Advantage of Match Contributions Programs
While the primary benefit of a 401(k) plan is to help employees save for retirement, offering an employer match encourages employees to participate, as employees may consider the match “free” money. In addition, employers can take a tax deduction for their matching contributions,
The administrative burden of setting up retirement plans can be overwhelming for some business owners. Choosing a tech-enabled 401(k) platform like Human Interest – which offers a fast online setup in a few clicks; transparent pricing; and attentive, human support – can help employers navigate the shifting landscape of state-specific regulations and mandates. When choosing a provider, also consider the upfront fees you’ll pay (both as an employer and for the employees participating in the plan), if the platform integrates with your payroll provider, customer service response times and how the 401(k) provider can help answer questions about compliance from regulatory bodies to set your employees up for long-term success.
Find additional information to help provide a more secure financial future for your employees at humaninterest.com.
We’ve all heard the phrase: “You think making money is hard? Try being broke.” But here’s the truth—there’s more than one way to be broke. Some people are broke because they overspend.
Overspending Broke—The
style Trap This is the most common kind of
You make good money but spend like it’s unlimited. You buy what you want when you want—because, after all, “you work hard.” But here’s the problem: You’re financing a lifestyle, not building a legacy. Your bank account never grows because your spending grows lockstep with your income. Fix it: Track every dollar for 30 days. Identify your leaks. Create a spending plan that includes saving and investing before spending. Live below your means now so you can live beyond your limits later. 2. Under-earning Broke—The Paycheck Problem This broke isn’t about wasteful spending. It’s about not earning enough to meet basic needs. You’re working hard, but the paycheck doesn’t match the effort. You’re juggling bills, scraping by, and trying to survive on wages that don’t stretch far enough. Fix it:
You can’t budget your way out of under-earning forever. Upgrade your skills. Get certified in a high-demand field. Pursue a side income. Network strategically. If your job doesn’t pay what you’re worth, find one that will.
3. Mindset Broke—The Belief Barrier Some people stay broke because they’ve accepted struggle as normal. They grew up hearing “the little man can’t get ahead.” That kind of thinking becomes a financial ceiling. Fix it: Reprogram your mindset. Replace scarcity thinking with abundance thinking. Learn about money, wealth, and opportunity. Surround yourself with financially disciplined people. You can’t build wealth with a broke mindset.
4. Situational Broke—The “Life Happens” Broke Sometimes you’re not broke because of bad habits—you’re broke because life blindsided you. A job loss, a divorce, a medical bill, or an unexpected emergency can knock you flat.
Fix it:
Focus on survival first—food, housing,
transportation, and utilities. Then build an emergency fund, even if it’s just $25 per paycheck. Protect yourself from future crises with insurance and savings. You can’t always avoid trouble, but you can prepare for it.
5. Temporary Broke—The Investment Season Sometimes being broke is strategic. You might be going back to school, paying for your child’s education, starting a business, or investing heavily in your future. You’re not irresponsible—you’re reinvesting your resources for a bigger payoff later. Fix it: Plan your transition. Budget lean but intentional. Don’t stay broke longer than necessary—set clear timelines and financial checkpoints. Remind yourself that this is a season of sacrifice that leads to a harvest.
6. Fake Rich Broke—The Image Illusion
This one is everywhere. You look like money—designer shoes, new car, flashy vacations—but behind closed doors, you’re
Good news in Gary and Pittsburgh—but still America declines
by Ben Jealous
(TriceEdneyWire.com)—Thirty
bigger story is far darker: across the country, American manufacturing is losing ground. Gary and Pittsburgh are exceptions, not the rule. The pace of manufacturing growth between 2022 and 2024 meant that this year we were supposed to create as many as 200,000 new manufacturing jobs and position America to seize the future of the global automobile industry. Instead, we are on track to lose nearly 80,000. Policy shifts in big, new labor-intensive industries like electric vehicles, battery assembly, and clean energy manufacturing threaten to cancel or delay projects that could have reshaped the landscape of American industry and delivered tens of thousands of good-paying jobs. At this rate, American automobile manufacturing risks becoming a gas-powered nostalgia act.
Most Americans now live at the same address: we live where there used to be a factory. And when that factory shut down, what shot up was joblessness, hopelessness, opioid and meth addiction. Suicide, homicide, violence, and multigenerational crushing poverty followed.
We know this not as abstraction but as lived reality: communities hollowed out, families
broken, hope evaporated. The consequences are more than economic. MIT research shows that communities exposed to trade shocks and manufacturing decline became more politically radicalized. Workers didn’t just lose jobs—they became more susceptible to extremes across the political spectrum. The collapse of industry didn’t just shrink wallets; it poisoned our politics. I turned 21 the year NAFTA passed. Since then, because of NAFTA, China’s permanent normal trade relations, automation, and foreign competition, 65,000 American factories have closed. Entire towns vanished from economic maps, and the social and political cost has been immense. Yet from 2022 to 2024, momentum toward rebuilding American manufacturing emerged. Clean energy manufacturing created 330,000 jobs. Companies announced $265 billion in investments, with three out of four dollars flowing to counties hardest hit by factory closures. Battery plants in Arizona and Michigan. Solar manufacturing in Ohio and Texas. Wind turbine assembly in small towns. These were labor-intensive jobs—the kind that restore communities, not just output.
And yet, that momentum is slipping away. Policy shifts in big, new labor-intensive industries like electric vehicles, battery assembly, and clean energy manufacturing threaten to cancel or delay projects that could have reshaped the landscape of American industry and delivered tens of thousands of good-paying jobs. Gary and Pittsburgh are bright spots, but
they cannot carry the country. Without broader investment, the address most Americans live at—where a factory used to be—remains unchanged.
Even if we modernize steel, the United States risks becoming a supplier nation: producing raw materials while China and other countries dominate the high-value, finished products of the 21st-century economy.
China already controls 65 percent of the global EV market, 18 percent of Europe, and over 80 percent of Latin America. By 2030, four of every ten cars worldwide will be built there. If we abandon EV and battery production, the steel we produce will feed foreign factories, not American workers. Without investment in EVs, batteries, and advanced auto manufacturing, American automobile production risks becoming a gas-powered nostalgia act—while China drives the future of cars, both electric and globally competitive.
Meanwhile, Washington is paralyzed. The federal government has shut down because parties cannot agree on the basics. This dysfunction mirrors our failure in industrial policy: if the country cannot unite to produce, it cannot protect the communities left behind by decades of decline.
It doesn’t have to be this way. Bipartisan industrial policy could rebuild manufacturing and revive communities. Workers, whether in Republican or Democratic districts, want the same thing: stable, middle-class jobs in the places where factories used to stand.
The research is clear: rebuilding industry reduces the political toxicity that has been rising
for decades. This is not partisan theory—it is practical necessity. One president walks the walk, investing in manufacturing even if he speaks less about it. Another president talks the talk, borrowing rhetoric from both progressive and right-wing populist playbooks. But the American people care less about who the president is. We all care more about whether factory jobs come back. We all liked our old address—in a nation that was a manufacturing powerhouse—better than this new one, where we consume far more than we produce. We remember the embarrassment of COVID, when our once-great manufacturing nation couldn’t keep up with demand for toilet paper, let alone masks and ventilators. The choice is ours. We can invest in the industries of the future here, in places hollowed out by past trade shocks, or surrender them and cement a cycle of despair. The Gary and Pittsburgh investments show what is possible—but they cannot carry the nation alone. Only a fullscale, bipartisan effort can shift the address most Americans live at—from where factories used to be to where they exist again. We’ve seen what fills the void when we abandon communities: addiction, violence, hopelessness, despair, and division. We’ve seen what happens when we invest: jobs, stability, opportunity, and even the possibility of greater comity and unity. America’s future—and the health of our politics—depends on which path we choose.
(Ben Jealous was formerly National President and CEO of the NAACP. He is currently a Professor of Practice at the University of Pennsylvania.)
Property is Power! When ZIP codes dictate
even after adjusting for education and income, Black families hold roughly one-fifth of the median wealth of White families. Much of that gap is rooted in home equity or the absence of it. The tragedy is not that Black families fail to buy homes, but that the market fails to recognize the full value of what they own.
The Psychology of Place Appraisal disparity is not only economic; it is psychological. It signals to homeowners that their neighborhoods, their lives, histories, and aspirations are worth less. This message erodes confidence, fuels disinvestment, and distorts public perception. Over time, it becomes a feedback loop: undervaluation discourages improvement, which in turn reinforces the perception of low worth. In this way, property becomes a mirror of societal bias, not an expression of intrinsic value, but of external
home becomes a proxy for how much a community is respected.
Reclaiming the True Value of Black Neighborhoods
1. Reforming the Appraisal Process Federal agencies and professional associations must enforce stronger oversight and transparency. Random audits of appraisal reports, algorithmic bias testing, and community participation in valuation standards are essential. A home’s worth should reflect its features, not the race of its neighbors.
2. Building Black Appraisal Power Representation matters. Increasing the number of Black appraisers and valuation professionals can disrupt the cycle of inherited bias. Training and certifying new appraisers from historically Black colleges and universities or community pipelines is a direct form of economic resistance.
3. Leveraging Policy and Community Action Local governments can incentivize reinvestment in undervalued communities through tax credits, equity-based
lending, and fair-appraisal programs. Community development financial institutions (CDFIs) and mission-driven lenders can bridge gaps left by traditional finance.
4. Educating and Empowering Homeowners
Black homeowners must be informed of their rights and empowered to challenge low appraisals. Knowing how to request a reconsideration of value, submit comparables, or file fair housing complaints transforms passive frustration into active agency. The Deeper Truth
When we talk about home value, we are really talking about human value. The devaluation of Black neighborhoods is not just an economic oversight; it is a moral indictment. It reveals how
swimming in debt. You’re faking it until you make it. However, your fake lifestyle is impeding your ability to save and invest.
Fix it:
Let go of image management. Sell what doesn’t serve your goals. Stop chasing compliments. Build your assets quietly. The goal isn’t to look rich—it’s to be rich.
7. Complacent Broke—The Comfort Zone
You’re not struggling, but you’re not growing, either. You’ve accepted “just enough” as good enough. You’re stable but stagnant—no savings, no investments, no goals beyond next month’s bills.
Fix it:
racism can shape markets just as surely as policy can.
Because Property is Power only when its value is honored. When every home in every neighborhood is appraised not by prejudice, but by potential. The true wealth of a community is not just in its property lines, it is in its people. And until that truth is reflected in our valuations, America’s balance sheet will remain incomplete.
(Dr. Anthony O. Kellum—CEO of Kellum Mortgage, LLC Homeownership Advocate, Speaker, Author NMLS # 1267030 NMLS #1567030 O: 313-710-9025 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.
thing—lack of control.
Overspending broke is losing control of where money goes.
Under-earning broke is losing control of how money comes in. Mindset broke is losing control of what you believe about money. Regaining control starts with ownership. You can’t change what you won’t confront. How to Break Free From Broke for Good Face your numbers. Ignorance isn’t bliss—What you don’t know can bankrupt you. Write down your income, debts, and expenses. Build a cushion. Aim for at least $1,000 in an emergency fund, then grow it to three to six months of expenses.
Challenge your comfort zone. Set bigger financial goals. Automate your savings. Study wealth-building strategies. Don’t confuse comfort with success—progress lives beyond your routine.
You’re earning solid money—maybe even six figures—but your bank account doesn’t reflect it. You have no emergency fund, no investments, and no financial margin. You’ve mastered making money, but not managing it.
Fix it:
Track your net worth quarterly. Automate your savings and investments. Live like your future depends on it—because it does. Wealth isn’t what you earn or how much you can spend, it’s what you save and invest. .
9. Emotional Broke—Spending to Feel Better Money becomes medicine. You spend when you’re sad, lonely, angry, or stressed. The rush of the purchase feels good for a moment—until the bill comes due.
Fix it:
Heal the root, not the symptom. Learn to manage emotions without money. Journal. Exercise. Talk to someone. Replace impulse with intention. Emotional peace will bring more relief than any purchase ever could.
10. Generational Broke—The Family Cycle
This broke runs deep. You learned how to manage money by watching people who struggled with it. Maybe nobody ever taught you how to save, invest, or plan— because they didn’t know how, either.
Fix it:
You can’t fix what you don’t face. Learn what wasn’t taught. Read financial books. Take courses. Seek mentorship. Hire a money coach. Then teach your kids what you’re learning. You can be the one who ends the cycle and starts the legacy.
The Common Thread: Control Whether you’re overspending, under-earning, or repeating family patterns, the word “broke” boils down to one
Cut financial fat. Cancel what you don’t need. Simplify bills and subscriptions.
Increase income. Learn skills that boost your value. Side hustles, certifications, or better opportunities—pursue them.
Protect your peace. Financial stress spills into your health, relationships, and sleep. Build structure, not chaos. Teach what you learn. Knowledge that stops with you dies with you. Pass it on.
Being broke wears many faces—overspending, under-earning, mindsets, emergencies, or emotional habits. But the cure is always the same: awareness, discipline, action, and consistency.
You can’t pray away poor money habits. You can’t wish away a low paycheck. You can’t manifest wealth while ignoring math. But you can decide—right now— that broke is not your destiny. Start today. Spend smarter. Earn better. Think bigger. Break free from broke! Financial freedom doesn’t happen overnight, but it does happen on purpose.
(Damon Carr, Money Coach & Tax Pro can be reached at 412-216-1013 or visit his website at www.damonmoneycoach.com)
Helping you flip your finances from stressed to blessed — one smart decision at a time.
CARR FROM B1
Racism
Since President Donald J. Trump descended that golden escalator in 2015 and launched his campaign by calling immigrants “criminals” and “rapists,” cruelty has been a core part of his political identity.
A decade later, that cruelty still fuels his rhetoric— most recently in his call for Rep. Ilhan Omar, an American citizen and member of Congress, to “leave the country.” It’s a chilling echo of the nativism that has long haunted this nation and a betrayal of the very ideals the United States stands for.
Omar’s story truly embodies the American spirit. She escaped civil war in Somalia as a young girl, spent years in a refugee camp, and found safety and opportunity in the United States. Through education, resilience, and civic involvement, she became one of the first Muslim women elected to Congress. Her journey exemplifies the American promise that hard work and freedom—not birthright or privilege—are what define true belonging.
Trump’s attack is especially upsetting given his own inner circle and family’s immigrant background. His wife, Melania Trump, was born in Slovenia. Vice President J.D. Vance is married to a woman whose parents emigrated from India. His first wife, Ivana, was also an immigrant. Clearly, immigration isn’t the main issue—it’s about who the immigrants are. When they are White, European, or wealthy, Trump sees it as the American dream. When they are Black, Muslim, or brown, he calls it an invasion.
Immigration reform is essential. Border security, fair asylum processes, and humane enforcement are crucial issues. However, cruelty is never a policy. Demonizing refugees, blaming migrants, and telling citizens to “go back” harms America’s moral fabric. It replaces empathy with hatred and effective governance with resentment.
The question facing the nation is whether America will remain a beacon of hope—for everyone—or only for those who look and pray like Trump. The answer will define not just our politics but our soul, because when leaders weaponize cruelty, it’s not Omar who must leave—it’s America’s conscience.
(Reprinted from the Washington Informer)
of
One of the most exciting and inspiring traditions within the African American collegiate community is homecoming.
With activities from football games between longtime rivals, to parades, the crowning of kings and queens, to concerts, colloquiums, and church services, homecoming at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) have evolved from a need for pride and a celebration of Black excellence in the face of systemic exclusion.
Homecoming provides a safe space for generations of Black scholars to affirm their identities, highlight their collective achievement, and reflect upon their shared culture.
In a tradition that dates to the early 1900s at HBCUs like Howard and Hampton Universities, alumni return to the campuses from which they graduated to celebrate school pride. Now these traditionally joyful events find themselves under the specter of death as shootings have been reported at or near HBCUs during recent celebrations in Washington, D.C., Mississippi, Pennsylvania, and South Carolina.
On Oct. 25, a shooting at Lincoln University during homecoming resulted in the death of one man and the injury of six others.
One day earlier, on Oct. 24, five people were shot and injured near Howard University’s campus during homecoming weekend.
Some schools have increased security, but others say they are looking for solutions that would not result in homecoming becoming a heavily policed event. While there’s understandable reluctance about over-policing predominantly African American spaces, gun violence already disproportionately affects Black communities. We cannot allow gun violence to become an accepted and normalized part of annual homecoming celebrations. It’s important to hold one another accountable and put an end to violence, not just at homecomings, but in Black communities nationwide.
Further, perhaps Congress, whenever they return to work, should stop protecting the rights of organizations like the NRA and begin stepping up for innocent Black boys and girls— youth who only want to better their lives in the pursuit of higher education. So far, there have been few reports that indicate who’s pulling the trigger during these outbreaks of violence; but someone knows something. And no matter the race or ethnicity of the triggermen, such acts of violence cannot be condoned.
(Reprinted from the Washington Informer)
(TriceEdneyWire.com)—Now is not the time for us to wait for others to decide where we go from here. Racism is not new in America. Sexism is not new. Differences between Democrats and Republicans are not new, but to have one party decide that it is okay to go on vacation for many weeks while the people sit around and suffer because we have an Administration that does not want affordable healthcare because its name is Obama Care. President Barack Obama, with the help of then Democratic Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, brought affordable healthcare to the people of America. I distinctly remember how we went about naming the healthcare bill. I proposed to friends at the White House it should be called Obama Cares. Others had input. I was so excited when they only removed the S and we lovingly called it Obamacare!
Since that glorious night when my friend, the late Dick Gregory and I were escorted into the packed room by then Congressman Keith Ellison right down front so we could see and hear everything about the bill. I guess that glorious night of the bill passing after much debate about what Democratic supporters of the bill were proposing, some Republicans couldn’t stand the success.
Some began trying to figure out how to take the people’s affordable healthcare away. After years of trying, but coming up
with no other plan, I heard Donald Trump answer a reporter when asked for the Republican plan to replace the Affordable Care Act that he had a CONCEPT! So many years later Republicans are still trying to put Trump’s concept into a better healthcare bill! It’s time for them to stop blocking healthcare that is not only for Democrats, but also for their own constituents, because President Obama didn’t say his plan was for only Democrats! We, the people, without regard to Party, must decide who works for our benefit, and who always decides to block the needs of the people! As President Obama said recently, “It’s on each of us to decide what we’re willing to do for our democracy.” Right now, a lot of racism and sexism are trying to block what even people in the Republican party want and need. If the rest of the Supreme Court can’t join Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Justice Ketanji Brown-Jackson and Justice Elena Kagan in doing the right thing, it is up to we the people, to stand firmly up and decide
we know better than the rest of the Courts who seem comfortable ignoring the Constitution while they so often vote for Trump instead of where our Constitution says what rights the people have. Right now, thanks to Democratic Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Democratic House Minority Speaker Hakeem Jeffries, and members of the Democratic House and Senate are our hope to lead us to a better life for all people. This unchecked power Justice John Roberts and Trump’s minions who can’t speak for us without fear of what Trump will do to them, is not working for WE THE PEOPLE! Trump is being credited with 21 of 23 important cases in the Supreme Court, so that tells us whose side others are on. It’s not WE THE PEOPLE! In every future election, let’s do our part because nobody is going to save us but us. Everybody can do something to save our democracy. Nobody has the right to stay home assuming somebody else will step up. Election Day must be sacred for us. Let us teach all people, including Hispanics, and White women that many gave their all to give them the right to vote, too. Had we recognized that, Hon. Kamala Harris would be President of the United States, and we would not be going through this misery.
(Dr. E. Faye Williams is President of The Dick Gregory Society.)
(TriceEdneyWire.com)—“My greatest fear is that one day we may wake up and our democracy is gone.”
John Lewis
On Tuesday, November 4th, Americans took the first step toward turning the page on this dark chapter of our history by voting for state and municipal leaders committed to our advancement, our democracy, and standing up to an increasingly authoritarian government. 2025 has been an emotional year for Americans. It began with wildfires that brought one of our most beautiful cities to a standstill, followed by the inauguration of an administration that immediately began turning back the clock on American life as we’ve come to know it. In the first nine months of this administration, we’ve seen planes crash without remorse or consolation from our leadership, the erosion of our privacy at the benefit of big tech and surveillance, our cities invaded by our military, the federal workforce and military leadership gutted, and executive orders that dismantle the equity principles that define what it means to be American. Perhaps the most broadly felt pain has been the continued assault on our economy by tariffs and unregulated artificial intelligence that has led to record unemployment on the heels of the most extended government shutdown in American history.
In the face of this devastation, the Urban League movement has remained steadfast in our commitment to fill the chasms caused by this
I have spent most of my adult life dealing with people who look like me telling me that I was “too Black,” or “too pro-Black.” This has come from mostly Black people who were uninformed about their faith and/or duped by White people who convinced them that whiteness was the standard to aspire to in their faith and their Blackness was to be either diminished or erased.
This notion of a person being too much of how God made them has been trending on social media lately. Somebody posted, “Don’t be so pro-Black that you become anti-Christ.” Biblical and social brainwashing is real.
Let me first remind the people who look like me what a large segment of White Christian nationalists and White evangelicals think about them. A Utah pastor by the name of Brian Sauvé said—and I paraphrase from a podcast—that “Black people would be welcome to join his church as long as they did not practice Black culture.” He further stated that “Black culture is evil, murderous, violent, and bestial; Black culture people steal, kill, destroy, and they look like Satan. Black culture people are sinful to the core, have a high rate of fatherlessness, sexual immorality, and molest children at high rates.” He then said that “in every criminal statistic, Black culture people excel.”
This man represents the insane, sick ignorance and hate of far too many White evangelicals who put their whiteness above their Christianity. It also represents the impact of racism and White supremacy that has indoctrinated some Black people with self-hate. It is the epitome of what Omowale, better
unrelenting chaos stemming from all three branches of government.
Our D3 platform to Defend Democracy, Defeat Poverty, and Demand Diversity was echoed by voters of all backgrounds from every corner of this country.
We have watched our current leadership take brazen steps to silence us with corporate intimidation tactics, pressuring our legacy media companies, colleges, and universities into complicity through questionable legal action, and the Supreme Court signaling that it may be willing to gut section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, effectively greenlighting discrimination at the ballot box.
Redistricting efforts to strip Americans of their right to fair representation were met with a successful proposition in California to keep ideological balances in Congress. Newly elected governors, attorney generals, and mayors who championed platforms to make their cities and states more affordable, their schools and public spaces safer from acts of random violence, and protect their constituents from federal law enforcement overreaches won
with impressive margins over their opponents who aligned themselves with the current administration’s most heinous, un-American positions without compunction.
This week, America shouted loud and clear that enough is enough. Make no mistake. This current and its extremist movement will not go out in silence. At this very second, our government, vital programs like SNAP, payments to TSA agents, our military, and some of the hardest working among us are still being held hostage by a radical Congress that is compelled to let subsidies that keep our healthcare die. And extremists continue to mobilize and threaten political and physical violence against leaders and communities fighting for equity at alarming rates. The Urban League movement and the Civil Rights community are not strangers to this rhetoric, and we are emboldened to not only raise the alarm on these inequities and injustices, but fight against with our programming, our policy efforts, and through building coalitions with political leaders like those who won this week who remain committed in the fight to protect our Democracy, are working to ensure that our systems and institutions reflect the people of this country, not a small, privileged few, and believe that by working together we can eradicate poverty from the wealthiest nation that has ever existed in the history of the world. We will continue fighting and emerge from this dark era into a new day.
known as Malcolm X, said when he prophetically declared, “I say, and I say it again: you been misled, you been had, you been took, you been hoodwinked, bamboozled, led astray, run amok.” You cannot be too much of who and what God made you to be. I was born Black because that is how God created me in this present world. I only use these terms “Black” and “White” because of the current circumstance of White hegemony that we live in. Any intelligent person knows that White and Black are mere social constructs created by wealthy White men to separate poor Whites from poor Blacks by making poor Whites believe they are better than poor Blacks in order to keep control of their wealth and power and not share that wealth and power with poor Whites or poor Blacks. But I digress. It would be a scandal and a sin for anybody to try and change the culture and ethnicity that they were born with. As I stated above, I was born a Black man in America, and I chose to become part of the Christian faith. My ancestry, my ethnicity, and my socalled racial heritage are a part of my lineage and therefore essential to how I experience the world and practice the faith.
Jesus the Christ is described in Scripture as having “hair like lamb’s wool and feet the color of
burnt bronze.” Jesus was born, lived, crucified, and resurrected in the North African region of Palestine, and when he was a toddler, his parents immigrated to Egypt to hide him from Herod. You cannot hide a blue-eyed, blond-haired, narrow-nosed child in Black African Egypt unless that child’s Blackness allows them to blend in. There is no such thing as being too “pro-Black,” period. If anything, we are not Black enough. Our African identities are so powerful to these wicked people that they systematically set out to rob us of our names, our languages, and our culture because they saw the greatness in our people. That is the very reason our history is being erased right now. Those mutilators of the flesh through violence beat into many of us that Whiteness, White languages, White history, and White people were the standard so that we would produce the ignorance of some skin folks who would obtusely say, “Don’t be so pro-Black that you become anti-Christ.” Jesus said, “Love your neighbor as you love yourself.” That means for Black people to be as Black as you can, to love your African Blackness every day of your life, because you cannot love others or love God truly unless you love and celebrate your heritage and lineage with everything you have.
Jesus Christ never denounced his African Jewishness, and therefore, I will not yield my African Blackness either.
Be encouraged, be authentic, and stay woke. Uhuru Sassa! (The Rev. Dr.
(TriceEdneyWire.com)—Dick Cheney, who died this week at age 83, was one of the most powerful and controversial figures in modern American politics. The former Vice President leaves behind a complicated legacy—marked by the Iraq War, expanded executive power, and decades of polarizing policy. Yet in his twilight years, Cheney performed an act of rare political courage: he stood against Donald Trump and, in a move that shocked Washington, endorsed Kamala Harris for president. That single act—rooted in principle rather than politics—may well be remembered as his finest hour.
Cheney’s endorsement of Harris was not a conversion to liberalism. It was a declaration of loyalty to democracy itself. He did not suddenly embrace the Democratic platform; rather, he rejected the authoritarian drift that has consumed the Republican Party he once helped lead. Cheney understood, perhaps more clearly than most, how fragile our democratic institutions can be when power is placed above principle. When he endorsed Harris, he wasn’t crossing the aisle—he was drawing a line in the sand.
In his lifetime, Cheney was known for his stern demeanor and hard-right convictions. He was the architect of the Bush-era doctrine that justified preemptive war. Progressives saw him as the embodiment of imperial overreach. But in his later years, Cheney found himself cast out by the very movement he once helped define. His insistence that truth and constitutional order mattered more than personal loyalty put him squarely at odds with Trumpism. When his daughter, Liz Cheney, joined the January 6th Committee to hold Trump accountable, she became a political exile in her own party—defeated in Wyoming by a Trump-endorsed challenger. Dick Cheney’s support for her stance, and his unflinching criticism of Trump, made clear that the Cheneys’ conservatism was grounded in respect for the rule of law, not blind allegiance to a man. Trump’s response to Cheney’s integrity was predictable and petty. When Cheney and his daughter endorsed Kamala Harris in 2024, Trump took to his social-media platform to call them “irrelevant RINOs”—Republicans in Name Only—and mocked Cheney’s long career in government. He conveniently ignored that he himself had once praised Cheney for his toughness, even pardoning Cheney’s former aide Scooter Libby in 2018. That reversal—from admiration to ridicule—captures the moral collapse of Trump’s Republican Party. In Trump’s world, loyalty matters more than leadership, and dissent is treated as betrayal. Even in death, the divide remains sharp. As of this writing, Trump has not issued a statement mourning Cheney’s passing. His silence speaks volumes. Every living president—Democrat and Republican alike—has acknowledged Cheney’s immense, if complicated, role in shaping American foreign and domestic policy. But Trump, consumed by grievance and incapable of grace, could not bring himself to offer even a perfunctory condolence. In contrast, Kamala Harris issued a thoughtful statement recognizing Cheney’s “lifelong commitment to American democracy,” signaling that his endorsement was both meaningful and memorable. For Democrats like me, praising Dick Cheney doesn’t come easily. His record on war, torture, and secrecy remains indefensible. He presided over some of the darkest chapters in recent U.S. history. Yet history is often a study in contradiction. Cheney’s late-life transformation— his vocal rejection of Trumpism, his defense of the Constitution, and his willingness to put country over party—deserves acknowledgment. Redemption doesn’t erase wrongdoing, but it reveals that conscience can survive even in the most unlikely places. Cheney’s opposition to Trumpism was not rhetorical; it was existential. He understood that Trump’s contempt for truth and law was incompatible with any functioning democracy. “In our history,” Cheney said in a 2022 campaign ad for his daughter, “there has never been an individual who is a greater threat to our Republic than Donald Trump.” Those words were prophetic. They came not from a liberal pundit or a Democratic strategist, but from a man who once stood at the heart of conservative power.
Julianne Malveaux
The war on drug boats
On the first day of his second term, President Donald Trump issued more than two dozen executive orders. One designated eight Latin American cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. This action was unusual because cartels are not terrorist organizations. Cartels are criminal organizations that operate purely for monetary benefit. Terrorist groups use violence for political purposes. Designating cartels as “terror organizations” does not automatically turn them into Al-Qaeda, but it allows the president to use military force against them rather than federal law enforcement.
Fred Kahn, the founder of FinCrime Central, feels the executive order simply acknowledged a decade-old reality. According to Kahn, the persistent relationship between cartels and terror groups like Hezbollah, Hamas, FARC, and ISIS demonstrates that they are far more than just criminal enterprises.
Kahn noted that “Terrorist organizations have relied on drug trafficking and cartel-controlled financial networks to fund their activities. Drug cartels, in turn, have used these partnerships to strengthen their operations, gain access to advanced weaponry, and evade law enforcement. With cartels now designated as terrorist organizations … financial institutions, law enforcement agencies, and intelligence networks [can] adapt by adopting counterterrorism strategies to combat drug cartel operations.”
On the other hand, Rachel Levinson-Waldman, director of the Brennan Center’s Liberty and National Security Program, suggested that while some cartels continue to play an important role in drug trafficking, others have diversified to include or even focus almost entirely on migrant smuggling, and it remains to be seen whether the identified cartels’ activities meet the legal definition of terrorism.
She argued that treating cartels as terrorists is unnecessary to handle the threat they pose and that it may harm many people who have no connections to drug trafficking or terrorism.
Levinson-Waldman had a larger concern about classifying cartels as terrorist organizations. She claimed that this classification provided “rhetorical justifi-
cation for supercharging” militarization. She said that Trump’s executive order authorized the secretary of Homeland Security and the attorney general to prepare to enforce the Alien Enemies Act of 1798.
According to Levinson-Waldman, “The Alien Enemies Act would not give the president stronger tools to address drug trafficking either; leaving aside the dubious constitutionality of that law, which permits the detention and deportation of non-U.S. citizens based solely on their ancestry, with nothing approaching due process, it is not linked in any way to terrorist activity. The law becomes available only during a declared war or an invasion perpetrated by a foreign government or nation, not by a foreign terrorist organization.”
Neither Trump’s supporters nor his critics knew to what extent the executive order would be carried out—until September 2, when Trump announced the U.S.’s first military attack on a “drug-carrying boat,” killing 11 people.
The military attacks on “drug-carrying boats” continued, and at the end of October, NPR reported that the “Trump administration has yet to provide public evidence to support its assertions that the individuals on the boats were cartel members and that the vessels were transporting drugs, raising concerns about the legality of the strikes.”
Also in October, Admiral Alvin Holsey, director of US Southern Command, met with US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to discuss his concerns. Holsey oversaw the first military strike on the suspected drug boat in September but questioned the legitimacy of the military strikes, which targeted suspected drug boats without prior notice or interdiction. Holsey resigned.
As of November, 15 military strikes on vessels suspected of trafficking drugs
have killed more than 60 persons. According to international law experts, the United States has used an “unprecedented amount of military hardware” to confront suspected drug traffickers and called the military strikes overkill. Trump’s executive order clearly blurred legal lines, but did it cross them?
Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky) called the U.S. military strikes on alleged drug boats illegal. He said, “We can’t just kill indiscriminately because we are not at war … The bottom line is that execution without due process is not justice, and blowing up foreign ships is a recipe for chaos.”
To clear up any misconception, John Spencer, chair of war studies at the Madison Policy Forum, stated that for decades, the United States has treated the drug war as if it were solely a law enforcement issue. It never was. It always has national security ramifications. Drugs now kill more Americans per year than all modern wars combined. Despite billions spent on interdiction, prevention, and policing, drug overdoses still killed over 100,000 people in 2023. Such an incident is not a criminal nuisance. America has the right to strike the cartels responsible for American deaths at home, just as it has the right to strike al Qaeda and ISIS overseas.
Really?
This is the same John Spencer who claimed no genocide took place in Gaza during the recent Hamas/Israel war. He explained the high number of civilian deaths in Gaza (over 68,000) caused by Israel’s bombing campaign did not equate to genocide because there was no proof of Israel’s genocidal intent. Without that proof, the tragic events in Gaza failed to meet the legal definition of genocide.
In Gaza, the legal definition of genocide was the determining factor rather than the high rate of collateral damage; however, for drug cartels, it is the high rate of collateral damage—specifically drug overdoses—that determines whether they meet the legal definition of terror organizations.
If Spencer was accurate on the former, he can’t be correct on the latter, which means President Trump’s war on drug boats has crossed a legal line.
When Cheney endorsed Kamala Harris, he reminded Americans that patriotism is not defined by party, but by principle. His death closes a tumultuous chapter in Republican history, one where courage became a rare commodity. Cheney was never a man who sought applause; he often thrived on controversy. But in the end, he stood for something larger than politics.
For all his faults—and there were many— Dick Cheney’s final years revealed the flicker of a statesman’s soul. His defiance of Trump, his defense of democracy, and his willingness to speak uncomfortable truths earned him a measure of redemption. When he endorsed Kamala Harris, he stood not just against a man, but against the corruption of a movement. In that moment, Dick Cheney—the architect of hard power—showed moral strength. And for that, history may judge it, rightly, as his finest hour. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and his despotic minions have less than a fraction of Cheyney’s moral courage. They might reflect on Cheyney’s legacy as they continue to pay tribute to their unhinged leader. (Dr. Julianne Malveaux is a DC based economist and author. Juliannemalveaux.com)
The City of Pittsburgh has decided to move forward with plans for a public safety facility in the Black community of Lincoln-Lemington that could cost roughly $86 million. While some may see it as just another training facility or community development, it brings about various concerns regarding community safety. To further unpack this, I am going to discuss the role of “progressive politics” and neocolonialism.
Progressive politics is advocacy for social justice, specifically addressing issues like income inequality, health care, and climate change. If you are a Democrat or independent with progressive viewpoints, you have likely seen Democrats and similar parties promoting these candidates, who are often characterized as social justice warriors. Locally, a majority of Pittsburgh City Council and the mayor ran on similar platforms and consider themselves “progressive.”
However, they have not held any public meetings about this project. Over 30 community members spoke out against this for three months before the council voted. Additionally, the council has communicated that they will hold meetings after the master plan is done. The decision to move forward with the Henningson Durham & Richardson company, which has been accused of using surveillance on community members, is also problematic. So, let’s be clear: approving a multi-million-dollar public safety training center and not involving the community isn’t PROGRESSIVE!
Can a mayor who refuses to disavow racism as a campaign tactic truly be a leader for all of Pittsburgh? This January, Corey O’Connor will be sworn in as the Mayor of the City of Pittsburgh. Those of us who understand what’s at stake for the most vulnerable among us have reason to be concerned.
Full disclosure, I was a part of the Gainey campaign team. To borrow a line from the musical “Hamilton,” I was “in the room where it happened.” I write today, not as an expression of sour grapes but as a concerned citizen with an unusual vantage point.
In January, before the campaign got heated, I spoke with the O’Connor team and O’Connor himself about troubling texts that came in the form of opinion “push” surveys, intended to inflame the worst, racialized suspicions of the city’s first Black Mayor.
To his credit, Ben Forstate, O’Connor’s Campaign Manager, was rightfully disgusted by the content and declared that the campaign would soon make a statement disavowing such tactics because they were “committed to making sure that it [didn’t] get worse.” Mr. O’Connor himself called me to express the same outrage and made the same commitment to action. When I followed up on this promise to “call it out” a week later, the team’s moral outrage had given way to political practicality. There was no longer, in their minds, a need for anything to be said. No need to create distance between the campaign and the base impulses these text messages intended to stir up. And then, not surprisingly, things got worse.
As the campaigns were in full swing, flyers attempting to tie the current Mayor’s legacy to blight, disinvestment, and theft appeared in mailboxes across the city. These flyers also assailed the trustworthiness of Black women, particularly
On the other hand, if you look at the history of progressives consistently addressing police violence, this behavior tracks. A good example is the rush to avoid saying the word “defund,” because progressive Democrats lost some elections. It instantly became Black organizers’ fault rather than acknowledging the lack of effective community engagement and the harmful instances of dangled diversity by the party. This caused people to start saying the safer word “reimagine,” which is not a policy. As a result, we got cookie-cutter solutions with no real impact, such as police advisory boards and committees.
Neocolonialism is also directly connected to this issue. This is a form of indirect control in which a dominating power uses quieter methods to apply their dominance. Initially, they come with an appearance of being helpful but end with superficial change. Other ways this shows up are through structural program adjustments or “reform.”
Locally, this has occurred with privatization and reduced public spending on
housing, violence prevention, education, as well as water systems, resulting in schools being closed in Black communities, a decrease in stop-the-violence funds, and gentrification. Furthermore, we see foreign military and corporate formations’ presence through Pittsburgh. This year, the Pa. Energy & Innovation Summit was held here at Carnegie Mellon. At this event, it was announced that Pa. would receive $90 billion in energy and AI investments. The training facility will also attract police from across the country, further emphasizing a militarized police state. It’s important to note that Pittsburgh Police have already trained with military forces from Israel. This has led to the usage of tactics such as using knees on people’s necks and rubber bullets, which has caused severe injury and, at times, death to peaceful protestors. Additionally, the administration has stated its intent to use training grounds in Black communities for military purposes. This time, they are hiding in plain sight. If you look closer, this can be seen as a form of soft power being exercised and a true manifestation of neocolonialism. Pittsburgh does not need a million-dollar police training facility. Why not put funds toward housing or community programming? We need to redirect our focus to initiatives that intentionally support those most impacted. Community is our greatest strength and will sustain us!
troubling in a city that’s been declared a threat to our ability to live long lives. To be clear, the O’Connor campaign did not create the blatantly racist campaign material. Even so, local electeds, community advocates, and Democratic Committee members held a press conference to call out the obvious foul, challenging Mr. O’Connor to disavow those who would use racism as a campaign tool. At first, this challenge was met with silence but eventually, the O’Connor campaign put out a statement identifying hate speech as an evil that wouldn’t be allowed in his administration. But hate speech wasn’t the problem. The real problem was racism, the historic racialized prejudices that have shaped policies incentivizing long-term disinvestment in Pittsburgh’s Black neighborhoods for decades. The elevation of racism as a campaign strategy was much more than a campaign insult hurled at Mayor Gainey. It was the affirmation of a Pittsburgh forged along a racial and socioeconomic divide. Whether the Primary votes cast fell along this divide is irrelevant now. What’s relevant is what Pittsburgh’s next mayor will do in light of this schism, especially as the Trump Administration works to return America to a pre-civil rights reality.
I told Mr. O’Connor and Mr. Forestate as much when we met in August, after the Primary. I had hoped to find in Mr. O’Connor a dialogue partner, willing, not just to listen, but to learn. I had hoped
our conversation would be open, since he now had nothing to lose in admitting that choosing political expediency over disavowing those using his campaign to inflame racist passions was a misstep that needed to be corrected. I had hoped to meet a future mayor with an ounce of curiosity. Instead, I was met with defensiveness and a dismissal of my concerns. More importantly, I met a mayor convinced that having Black folks in his corner erases any need to be accountable for how his continued silence perpetuates our racialized, discriminatory reality. Ironically, evidence of the need for leadership from the next mayor on this matter continues. A recent post to O’Connor’s campaign FB page asked the question: “Where did the money go Gainey? He needs his feet held to the fire.” The lies persist beyond the campaign because they are a matter of Pittsburgh’s long divisive history, something it seems our future mayor is unwilling to address. Recently, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s passion and conviction to defend the humanity of everyone who calls his city home created a revealing and viral online moment. Will the next mayor of Pittsburgh muster the same courage should it become necessary? I suggest that O’Connor’s Primary campaign revealed that he cannot meet the demands of this American moment without help from all of us. For me, and so many others, this help will take the form of challenge and reminder. Everyone who calls Pittsburgh home deserves a mayor who elevates policy choices that honor and defend their dignity. I intend to remind the future Mayor O’Connor of his responsibility to all of us and I hope some of you, regardless of who you voted for, will join me.
(Leeann Shaw Younger, Pastor, Cityview Church)
CONDITIONS OF SALE
Effective with the August 3, 2020, Sheriff Sale of real estate and all such monthly public sales thereafter shall be conducted virtually through video conferencing technology or live streaming. ALL PARTICIPANTS OR BIDDERS MUST BE REGISTERED AT LEAST 7 DAYS BEFORE THE DATE OF THE SALE IN ORDER TO PARTICIPATE (VIRTUALLY OR IN PERSON) AT THE ALLEGHENY COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE SALES OF REAL ESTATE. REGISTRATION WILL BE AVAILABLE ON THE ALLEGHENY COUNTY SHERIFF’S WEBSITE: SHERIFFALLEGHENYCOUNTY.COM. The Successful bidder will pay full amount of bid in CASH, CERTIFIED CHECK OR CASHIERS CHECK at time of sale, otherwise the property will be resold at the next regular Sheriffs Sale; provided, that if the sale is made on MONDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2025 the bidder may pay ten percent of purchasing price but not less than $75.00 in CASH, CERTIFIED CHECK, OR CASHIERS CHECK THE DAY IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE SALE, e.g. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2025, BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 8:30AM AND 2:30PM IN THE ALLEGHENY COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE. Failure to pay the 10% deposit will have you banned from future Sheriff Sales. And the balance in CASH, CERTIFIED CHECK, OR CASHIERS CHECK, on or before MONDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2025, at 10:00 O’CLOCK A.M. The property will be resold at the next regular Sheriff’s Sale if the balance is not paid, and in such case all money’s paid in at the original sale shall be applied to any deficiency in the price of which property is resold, and provided further that if the successful bidder is the plaintiff in the execution the bidder shall pay full amount of bid ON OR BEFORE THE FIRST MONDAY OF THE FOLLOWING MONTH, OTHERWISE WRIT WILL BE RETURNED AND MARKED “REAL ESTATE UNSOLD” and all monies advanced by plaintiff will be applied as required by COMMON PLEAS COURT RULE 3129.2 (1) (a).
FORFEITED SALES WILL BE POSTED IN THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE AND LISTED ON THE SHERIFF OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY WEB SITE.
AMENDMENT OF THE CODE SECOND CLASS COUNTY NEW CHAPTER 475 THE ALLEGHENY COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 475, ENTITLED TAXATION IS HEREBY AMENDED THROUGH THE CREATION ARTICLE XII, ENTITLED, “SHERIFF SALES”, AND COMPRISED AS FOLLOWS: SUBSECTION 475-60: RECORDING OF DEEDS AND NOTIFICATION OF SHERIFFS SALES TO TAXING BODIES.
A. FOR ANY REAL PROPERTY OFFERED AT SHERIFFS SALE DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF REAL ESTATE TAXES AND PURCHASED BY A THIRD PARTY THROUGH SUCH SALE, THE SHERIFF SHALL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR FILING THE DEED AND, WITHIN SEVEN DAYS OF FILING OF THE SHERIFFS DEED, PROVIDE WRITTEN NOTICE OF THE CONVEYANCE TO THE ALLEGHENY COUNTY OFFICE OF PROPERTY ASSESSMENTS. THE WRITTEN NOTICE REQUIRED PURSUANT TO THIS SUBSECTION SHALL INCLUDE THE DATE OF THE SALE, IDENTIFICATION OF THE PROPERTY SOLD BY BOTH ADDRESS AND LOT AND BLOCK NUMBER, AND THE NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE INDIVIDUALS OR OTHER ENTITY THAT PURCHASED THE PROPERTY.
B. AT THE TIME OF THE SALE THE SHERIFF SHALL COLLECT ALL REQUISITE FILING COSTS, REALTY TRANSFER TAXES AND FEES, NECESSARY TO PROPERLY RECORD THE DEED. C. WITHIN SEVEN DAYS OF RECEIPT OF WRITTEN NOTICE FROM THE SHERIFF, THE ALLEGHENY COUNTY OFFICE OF PROPERTY ASSESSMENTS SHALL FORWARD COPIES OF SUCH NOTICE TO ALL TAXING BODIES LEVYING REAL ESTATE TAXES ON THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE MUNICIPALITY AND SCHOOL DISTRICT WHERE THE PROPERTY IS LOCATED.
AS REQUIRED BY SECTION 14 OF ACT NO. 77 OF 1986, THE COST OF ALL DOCUMENTARY STAMPS FOR REAL ESTATE TRANSFER TAXES (STATE, LOCAL, AND SCHOOL) WILL BE DEDUCTED BY THE SHERIFF FROM THE PROCEEDS OF THE SALE. Purchasers must pay the necessary recording fees. Pursuant to Rule 3136 P.R.C.P. NOTICE is hereby given that a schedule of distribution will be filed by the Sheriff not later than 30 days from date of sale and that distribution will be made in accordance with the schedule unless exceptions are filed thereto within 10 days thereafter. No further notice of the filing of the schedule of distribution will be given.
A Land Bank formed under 68 Pa. C.S.A. 2101 et seq. may exercise its right to bid pursuant to 68 Pa. C.S.A. 2117(d) (2) through Pa. C.S.A. 2117(d) (4) on certain properties listed for sale under the municipal claims and Tax Lien Law, 53 P.S. 7101 et seq. The Sheriff of Allegheny County will honor the terms of payment which the Land Bank has entered with any municipalities having a claim against the property. If the Land Bank tenders a bid under Pa. C.S.A. 2117(d)(3) or 2117(d)(4) the property will not be offered for sale to others and the Property will be considered sold to the Land Bank for the Upset Price as defined in P.S.7279 and no other bids will be accepted.
NOTICE IS GIVEN THAT ALL SHERIFFS DEEDS TENDERED TO PURCHASERS WILL CONTAIN THE FOLLOWING: NOTICE: The undersigned, as evidenced by the signature(s) to this notice and the acceptance and recording of this deed, (is/are) fully cognizant of the fact that the undersigned may not be obtaining the right of protection against subsidence, as to the property herein conveyed, resulting from coal mining operations and that the purchased property, herein conveyed, may be protected from damage due to mine subsidence by a private contract with the owners of the economic interest in the coal. This notice is inserted herein to comply with the Bituminous Mine Subsidence and Land Conservation Act of 1966. as amended 1980. Oct. 10, P.L 874, No. 156 §1. “This document may not sell, convey, transfer, include, or insure the title to the coal and right of support underneath the surface land described or referred to herein and the owner or owners of such coal may have the complete legal right to remove all of such coal, and in that connection damage may result to the surface of the land, any house, building or other structure on or in such land.”
1DEC25
PLAINTIFF(S) BOROUGH OF MOUNT OLIVER Vs DEFENDANT(S) BRENDA HOUTZ ******************** CASE NO. GD-25-004123
DEBT $5,788.89
NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) CHRISTOPHER E. VINCENT
ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 546 WENDEL ROAD, IRWIN, PA 15642
ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (724) 978-0333
SHORT DESCRIPTION:
In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, BOROUGH OF MOUNT OLIVER:
HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 214 ORMSBY AVENUE, PITTSBURGH, PA 15210. DEED BOOK 13802, PAGE 186. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 32-A-125. 3DEC25
PLAINTIFF(S): PLUM Borough SCHOOL DISTRICT Vs DEFENDANT(S): STEVEN SCOTTI
CASE NO. GD-24-000385
DEBT $7,408.83
NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Elizabeth P. Sattler, Esquire
ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 445 Fort Pitt Boulevard, Suite 503, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 412-391-0160
SHORT DESCRIPTION:
In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, BOROUGH OF PLUM:
HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING, KNOWN AS 551 CRESTHAVEN DRIVE, PITTSBURGH, PA 15239. DEED BOOK 15881, PAGE 148. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 741-B-15.
4DEC25
PLAINTIFF(S): MT. LEBANON SCHOOL DISTRICT Vs DEFENDANT(S): JANET MARTIN
CASE NO. GD-25-003201 DEBT
$17,870.89
NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Elizabeth P. Sattler, Esquire
ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 445 Fort Pitt Boulevard, Suite 503, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 412-391-0160
SHORT DESCRIPTION:
In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, MUNICIPALITY OF MT. LEBANON: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING, KNOWN As 629 ROCKWOOD AVENUE, PITTSBURGH, PA 15234: DEED BOOK 17871, PAGE 337. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER l92,-S-246
5DEC25
PLAINTIFF(S): MOON AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT Vs DEFENDANT(S): 109 GATEHOUSE DRIVE, LLC
CASE NO. GD-25-003192 ********* DEBT $28,765.97 *********
NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Elizabeth P. Sattler, Esquire **********************
ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 445 Fort Pitt Boulevard, Suite 503, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 412-391-0160
SHORT DESCRIPTION:
In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, TOWNSHIP OF MOON: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING, KNOWN AS 109 GATEHOUSE DRIVE, CORAOPOLIS, PA 15108. DEED BOOK 17974, PAGE429.·BLOCKAND LOT NUMBER 337-A-14.
6DEC25
PLAINTIFF(S): BALDWIN-:WHITEHALL SCHOOL DISTRICT Vs DEFENDANT(S): CHARITY MARIE KARTEN ******************** CASE NO. GD-25-003823 ********* DEBT $8,410.00 *********
NAME OF ATTORNEY(S)
Elizabeth P. Sattler, Esquire **********************
ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 445 Fort Pitt Boulevard, Suite 503, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 412-391-0160
SHORT DESCRIPTION: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, BOROUGH OF BALDWIN: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING, KNOWN AS 219 PAULA DRIVE, PITTSBURGH, PA 15236. DEED BOOK 19q98, PAGE 101. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER · 135-A242:
7DEC25
DEFENDANT(S): Jason Shook a/k/a Jason D. Shook ******************** CASE NO. MG-25-000562 DEBT $27,939.38 NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Powers Kirn, LLC
ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) Eight Neshaminy Interplex, Suite 215, Trevose, PA 19053
ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 215-942-2090
SHORT DESCRIPTION: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, 19h Ward of the City of Pittsburgh: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 33-35 Greenbush Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15211 a/k/a 33/35 Greenbush Street, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15211. Deed Book Volume 11958, Page 381, Instrument 2004-5596, Block and Lot Number 4-L-7.
8DEC25
DEFENDANT(S): WILLIAM F. LYONS, JR. AND HEATHER WILLIAMS ******************** CASE NO. MG-24-000952 ********* DEBT $102,104.56 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) CHELSEA A. NIXON, ESQUIRE ********************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) McCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC 216 HADDON AVENUE, SUITE 201 WESTMONT NJ 08108
ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (856) 858-7080
SHORT DESCRIPTION: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township of West Deer: PARCEL 1: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 217 POLLOCK STREET, TARENTUM, PA 15084 A/KIA 145 POLLOCK STREET, TARENTUM, PA 15084. DEED BOOK VOLUME 16582, PAGE 527. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 1838-P-00036-0000-00. PARCEL 2: BEING VACANT LAND BEING KNOWN AS SNYDER STREET, TARENTUM, PA 15084. DEED BOOK VOLUME 16582, PAGE 527. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 1838-P-00135-0000-00.
9DEC25
DEFENDANT(S): KAWAKI K. BRADFORD AND DARIUS M. BRADFORD
******************** CASE NO. MG-25-000122 ********* DEBT $$130,30033 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) CHELSEA A. NIXON, ESQUIRE
ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) McCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC 216 HADDON AVENUE, SUITE 201 WESTMONT NJ 08108 ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (856) 858-7080 SHORT DESCRIPTION: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, and 2nd Ward of the City of Clairton: PARCEL 1: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED As 292 PARK AVENUE,· CLAIRTON, PA 15025.: DEED BOOK Volume 16702, PAGE 426. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER
10DEC25
DEFENDANT(S): LORI D. ADAMS ******************** CASE NO. MG-24-000660
DEBT $136,084.26 NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) CHELSEA A. NIXON, ESQUIRE ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) McCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC 216 HADDON AVENUE, SUITE 201 WESTMONT NJ 08108 ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (856) 858-7080 SHORT DESCRIPTION: IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, AND MUNICIPALITY OF PENN HILLS: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 304 ELIAS DRIVE,
TELEPHONE NUMBER: (856) 858-7080
DESCRIPTION: IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, AND MUNICIPALITY OF PENN HILLS: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 304 ELIAS DRIVE, PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA J,5235 .A/K/A 304 ELIAS DRIVE, PENN HILLS, PENNSYLVANIA 15235. DEED BOOK VOLUME 10869, PAGE 352. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 0368-P-00I 02-0000-00.
12DEC25
DEFENDANT(S): Albert Grace CASE NO. MG-24-000805
DEBT $11,423.54
NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Stephen M. Hladik, Esquire ********************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) Hladik, Onorato and Federman, LLP 298 Wissahickon Avenue, North Wales, PA 19454 ************************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 855-9521 ******************************** SHORT DESCRIPTION:
In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, 26TH WARD OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 2917 NORTH CHARLES STREET, PITTSBURGH, PA 15214. DEED BOOK VOLUME 6691, PAGE 319. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 46-B-142.
13DEC25
DEFENDANT(S): Charles I. Palmer and Helen M. Palmer CASE NO. MG-24-000517
DEBT $53,398.61
NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Stephen M. Hladik, Esquire
ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) Hladik, Onorato and Federman, LLP 298 Wissahickon Avenue, North Wales, PA 19454
ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 855-9521
SHORT DESCRIPTION:
In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, BOROUGH OF PITCAIRN: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A SINGLE FAMILY
RESIDENTIAL DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 373 2ND STREET, PITCAIRN, PA 15140. DEED BOOK VOLUME 13432, PAGE 579. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 747-A-248.
14DEC25
DEFENDANT(S): Brenda J. Dudle CASE NO. MG-24-000669
DEBT $50,923.36
NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Stephen M. Hladik, Esquire ********************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) Hladik, Onorato and Federman, LLP 298 Wissahickon Avenue, North Wales, PA 19454
************************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 855-9521 ******************************** SHORT DESCRIPTION: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, 3RD WARD OF THE CITY OF DUQUESNE: HAVING ERECTED THEREON
PUBLIC NOTICE OPENING OF WAITING LISTS FOR PERSONS/FAMILIES THAT REQUIRE A FULLY ACCESSIBLE WHEELCHAIR UNIT
Effective Monday, November 10, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. until Friday, November 21, 2025, at 1:00 p.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 for persons/families that require a fully accessible wheelchair unit and meet the eligibility criteria for a fully accessible wheelchair unit. The waiting lists will remain closed for the following waiting lists for all persons/families that do not require the features of a fully accessible wheelchair unit (with the exception of Allegheny Union Baptist Association).
• Allegheny Union Baptist Association (1 and 2 bedroom units only) - 2700 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15219
*These units require the head of household, spouse, or co-head of household to be at least 62 years of age.
• Cornerstone Village - (2 and 3 bedroom units only) - 185 Larimer Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206.
• Cornerstone Village Phase IV - (1 bedroom units only) - 185 Larimer Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206.
• Gladstone Residences - (1 and 2 bedroom units only) - 327 Hazelwood Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15207.
• Harvard Beatty Housing - (1 bedroom units only) - Corner of Harvard St. & Beatty St., Pittsburgh, PA 15206.
• Hillcrest Senior Residences – (1 bedroom units only) - 2948 Brownsville Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15227.
*These units require the head of household, spouse, or co-head of household to be at least 62 years of age.
• Larimer Pointe – (3 bedroom units only) – 429 Larimer Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206.
• Lemington Senior Housing - (1 bedroom units only) - 7151 Mary Peck Bond Place, Pittsburgh, PA 15206
*These units require the head of household, spouse, or co-head of household to be at least 62 years of age.
• Sandstone Quarry - (1 bedroom units only) - 1660 Sandusky Court, Pittsburgh, PA 15212.
• Skyline Terrace - (1, 2 and 3 bedroom units only) - 385 Elmore Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.
• Sycamore Street Apartments - (1 bedroom units only) – 124 W. Sycamore Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15211.
*These units require the head of household to be at least 55 years of age.
• The Carina - (3 bedroom units only) - 327 N. Negley Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206.
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, November 10, 2025, or after 1:00 p.m., Friday, November 21, 2025. 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.
As these units meet the Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards (UFAS), persons/families that require a fully accessible wheelchair unit are highly encouraged to apply. Please be advised that part of HACP’s eligibility determination process includes the provisions of its reasonable accommodation policy, requiring persons/families to request an accommodation to qualify a person/family for a fully accessible wheelchair unit. For more information on HACP’s reasonable accommodation policy and qualifications for a fully accessible wheelchair unit, please contact the Disability Compliance Office at 412-456-5282.
Persons with disabilities requiring accommodations to submit a pre-application can contact the HACP’s Disability Compliance Office at 412-456-5282. 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 completely separate from the HACP Housing Choice Voucher and Low Income Public Housing Programs.
The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh 412 Boulevard of the Allies, 7th Floor / Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15219 Tel: 412-643-2737 Fax: 412-643-2962 www.HACP.org
NOTICE: PROPOSED REVISIONS TO THE 2026
LOW-INCOME PUBLIC HOUSING FLAT RENT SCHEDULE
The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) is proposing updates to its Low-Income Public Housing (LIPH) Flat Rent Schedule. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP), in accordance with federal law and regulation, is proposing revisions to its Low-Income Public Housing Flat Rent Schedule.
The revised 2026 HACP Flat Rent Schedule is available for review and comment from Friday, November 7, to Monday, December 8, 2025, on the HACP website: www.hacp.org.
Copies of the 2026 Flat Rent Schedule can also be obtained by contacting the HACP Asset Management office at: 412-643-2737.
A notice including the proposed Flat Rent schedule will be mailed to all residents of the Low-Income Housing portfolio on November 3, 2025.
Public Hearings to receive public comments on the revised 2026 HACP Flat Rent Schedule will be held at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025, via Zoom.
Zoom Instructions
10:00 AM Session: Web: https://hacp-org.zoom.us/j/82544075262? pwd=3dIJasn07aCbXDIPxLnhl2iauBboge.1
A written comment period will be held beginning at 8 a.m. Friday, November 7, 2025, until 5 p.m. Monday, December 8, 2025
Written comments regarding the 2026 HACP Flat Rent Schedule must be submitted by mail and addressed to: HACP Asset Management, C/O Anthony Ceoffe, 412 Blvd. of the Allies, 7th Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, or via email to: anthony.ceoffe@hacp.org.
Comments may also be submitted by calling the HACP Asset Management Office at: 412-643-2737.
Persons with disabilities requiring assistance or alternative formats, or who wish to submit comments in alternative formats, can contact the HACP ADA/504 Coordinator at: 412-456-5020, Ext. 2504; TTY: 412-2015384. All other questions should be addressed to the Asset Management Office at: 412-643-2737. READ THE PROPOSED LIPH FLAT RENT SCHEDULE www.hacp.org.
The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh 412 Boulevard of the Allies, 7th Floor / Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15219 Tel: 412-643-2737 Fax: 412-643-2962 www.HACP.org
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Domestic Business Corporation has been incorporated under the Business Corporation Law of 1988, approved December 21, 1988, P.L. 1444, No. 177, effective October 1, 1989, as amended. The name of the corporation is MWM Property Solutions, Inc In Allegheny County and has been delivered to the Secretary of State for filing on 10/31/2025. LEGAL ADVERTISING Articles of Incorporation
LOGS LEGAL GROUP LLP BY: CHRISTOPHER A. DeNARDO, PA I.D. NO. 78447
SAMANTHA GABLE, PA I.D. NO. 320695
STEVEN PALMER, PA I.D. NO. 334553
LESLIE J. RASE, PA I.D. NO. 58365
HEATHER RILOFF, PA I.D. NO. 309906
KEVIN T. TONCZYCZYN, PA I.D. NO. 332616
ELIZABETH L. WASSALL, PA I.D. NO. 77788
JOSEPH L. LoCASTRO, IV, PA I.D. NO. 314973 985 OLD EAGLE SCHOOL ROAD, SUITE 514 WAYNE, PA 19087
TELEPHONE: (610) 278-6800
E-MAIL: PAHELP@LOGS.COM
LLG FILE NO. RMY 22-067420
Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB, not in its individual capacity but solely in its capacity as Owner Trustee for Ocwen Loan Acquisition Trust 2023-HB1 PLAINTIFF vs.
Robert A. Hooper, Jr., known Heir of Nancy Peters, deceased
Brian J. Hooper, known Heir of Nancy Peters, deceased Unknown Heirs, Successors, Assigns and All Persons, Firms or Associations Claiming Right, Title or Interest from or under Nancy Peters, deceased DEFENDANTS
COURT OF COMMON PLEAS ALLEGHENY COUNTY CASE NO. MG-23-001084
NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE OF REAL PROPERTY
TO: Unknown Heirs, Successors, Assigns and All Persons, Firms or Associations Claiming Right, Title or Interest from or under Nancy Peters, deceased 1245 Glencoe Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15205 THIS FIRM IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. IF YOU HAVE PREVIOUSLY RECEIVED A DISCHARGE IN BANKRUPTCY, THIS IS NOT AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED TO BE AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT, BUT ONLY ENFORCEMENT OF A LIEN AGAINST PROPERTY.
Your house (real estate) at: 1245 Glencoe Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15205 is scheduled to be sold at Sheriff’s Sale on January 5, 2026 at 9:00AM in Allegheny County, Fourth Floor, Gold Room, Courthouse, Pittsburgh, PA to enforce the court judgment of $116,192.69 obtained by Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB, not in its individual capacity but solely in its capacity as Owner Trustee for Ocwen Loan Acquisition Trust 2023-HB1 (the mortgagee) against you. As a result, a writ of execution has been issued in the amount of $127,633.69.
NOTICE OF OWNER’S RIGHTS
YOU MAY BE ABLE TO PREVENT THIS SHERIFF’S SALE
To prevent this Sheriff’s Sale you must take immediate action:
The sale will be cancelled if you pay back to the mortgagee the back payments, late charges, costs, and reasonable attorneys fees due. To find out how much you must pay, you may call: (610) 278-6800.
PLEASE NOTE a Schedule of Distribution will be filed by the Sheriff on a date specified by the Sheriff not later than thirty (30) days after sale. Distribution will be made in accordance with the schedule unless exceptions are filed thereto within 20 days after the filing of the schedule
TOWNSHIP OF WILKINS PUBLIC NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT PROPOSED ORDINANCE NUMBER 1137
The Wilkins Township Board of Commissioners will consider adoption of the following ordinance at a public meeting to be held on the 8th day of December 2025 at 7:00 p.m. in the Municipal Building, 110 Peffer Road, Wilkins Township, Pennsylvania. The complete text of the Ordinance is on file and may be inspected in the Office of the Township Secretary at the aforesaid Municipal Building during normal business hours.
The title and a summary of the ordinance is as follows.
PROPOSED ORDINANCE #1137 TITLE AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF WILKINS, ALLEGHENY COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA APPROPRIATING OUT OF REVENUES AVAILABLE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026 SPECIFIC SUMS REQUIRED AS SHOWN BY THE BUDGET AND FIXING THE REAL ESTATE TAX LEVY FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2026.
SUMMARY
The Ordinance appropriates specific sums required for the 2026 Budget, fixes the real estate tax levy for the 2026 fiscal year and provides for discounts and penalties on taxes paid and unpaid. The Real Estate Tax levy for 2026 is set at 7.674 mills. The total General Fund Budget is set at $7,674,100.
Estate of JOCELYN LEHMAN (deceased) of Pittsburgh, PA, Estate No.07132 of 2025 Rachel Krasnow and Ronna Sue Zell, extr. or to Devin Hallett Snyder, Esq., Strassburger McKenna Gutnick & Gefsky, 444 Liberty Avenue, Ste. 2200, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Estate of CONSTANCE PAPEAKE AKA CONSTANCE SCHMUDE, Deceased of Collier Township, Estate No. 02114 of 2024 William Deighan, Adm. or to Ryan Brode, Esq., Strassburger McKenna Gutnick & Gefsky, 444 Liberty Avenue, Ste. 2200, Pittsburgh, Pa 15222
Estate of JEAN LANDEFELD ROSE, deceased of McKees Rocks, Estate No. 06870 of 2025, Sharon Rose Miller, Extr. Ryan Brode, Esq, Strassburger McKenna Gutnick & Gefsky, 444 Liberty Avenue, Ste. 2200, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Estate of VIRGINIA WALTON (deceased) of Jefferson Hills, Estate No.07045 of 2025
Sharon Leigh Huckestein, extr. or to Devin Hallett Snyder, Esq., Strassburger
Strassburger, Esq, Strassburger McKenna Gutnick & Gefsky, 444 Liberty Avenue, Ste. 2200, Pittsburgh, Pa 15222
ANNOUNCEMENTS Meetings
BELLEVUE BOROUGH NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The Borough of Bellevue will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, December 2nd at 7:00 p.m. to review the proposed 2026 Budget. The meeting will be held at the Bellevue Borough Municipal Building, 537 Bayne Avenue, Bellevue, PA 15202.
The purpose of the Public Hearing is to receive comments and suggestions relative to the proposed budget and taxing ordinance. Action will be taken on the proposed budget at the December 16, 2025 Regular Meeting of the Bellevue Council. A copy of the Proposed 2026 Budget is available for inspection at the Borough Administrative office during regular business hours.
James E. Kelly Bellevue Borough DAS/Secretary
The City of Pittsburgh Equal Opportunity Review Commission will host a regular meeting on Thursday, November 20th from 12-1pm. It will take place in the Learning Lab on the sixth floor of the City-County Building; 414 Grant Street, Pittsburgh PA 15219. On the Agenda: • Introduction: Roll Call • Approval of October 2025 Minutes
Public Comment
November Plans (Review and Action)
ITQ Contracts (Notice Only)
• Contract Alerts & Violations (Notice Only)
• Commissioner Comments
• Office of Business Diversity Comments
For more information email EORC@pittsburghpa.gov.
OFFICIAL NOTICE BOROUGH OF THORNBURG PROPOSED BUDGET
Notice is hereby given that a proposed budget detailing expenditures from revenue sources for the year 2026 has been prepared by the Council of the Borough of Thornburg. The proposed budget may be reviewed and/or full copy may be obtained by contacting the undersigned at 545 Hamilton Road, Borough of Thornburg, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15205 or thornburg.secretary@ gmail.com. Written or oral arguments concerning the proposed budget will be received by Council at its regular meeting to be held on December 1, 2025 at 7:00 PM. It is intended that a final budget will be adopted by Council at said meeting.
Kristina Szmul Borough Secretary/Treasurer Borough of Thornburg
LEGAL ADVERTISING Bids/Proposals
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
ALLEGHENY COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA November 7, 2025
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 December 3, 2025 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
BM01 CULVERT REPLACEMENT PROJECT COUNTY PROJECT NO: BM01-0403 BOROUGH OF JEFFERSON HILLS
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/projects/197240/details. The Proposal, Specifications and Drawings may also be viewed at the Office of the Contract Manager, Room 504, County Office Building, Pittsburgh, PA. Please adhere to all COVID-19 safety procedures.
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, 408/2020, 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 Jean Statler, Project Manager, at 412350-5927. For contract related questions, contact the Contracts Division, at 412-350-7646.
Project completion is to occur by September 30, 2026.
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.
Corey O’Connor Controller County of Allegheny
PORT AUTHORITY OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY d.b.a. PRT
Electronic Proposals will be received online at PRT’s Ebusiness website (http://ebusiness.portauthority.org).
Proposals/bid submittals will be due 11:00 AM on November 21, 2025, and will be read at 11:15 AM, the same day, through your web browser via Microsoft Teams video conferencing, for the following:
To join the bid opening through Microsoft Teams meeting on your computer, mobile app or room device Meeting ID: 259 409 330 909 2
Passcode: XP2M9Hx6
Or call in (audio only)
412-927-0245
Phone Conference ID: 816 632 113#
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 November 4, 2025, 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: 213 087 574 562 2
Passcode: Ak7Jy6XH
Or call in (audio only)
412-927-0245
Phone Conference ID: 904 438 22#
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.
ALLEGHENY COUNTY SANITARY AUTHORITY
LEGAL NOTICE CONTRACT NO. 1818
Miscellaneous Flap Gate Sluice Gate and Valve Replacement at Various Locations
Sealed Bids for CONTRACT NO. 1818– Miscellaneous Flap Gate
Sluice Gate and Valve Replacement at Various Locations 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, December 18, 2025, and then shall be Publicly Opened and read via Microsoft Virtual Teams Meeting. A Pre-Bid Meeting will be held via Microsoft Virtual Teams Meeting on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 10:00 A.M., Prevailing Time. An Invitation will be required to access this meeting. If interested in obtaining a Invitation to the Pre-Bid Meeting, contact Tyler Trainor via email at Contract.Clerks@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 Technical Specifications should be directed to Zachary Hughes, Project Engineer I, ALCOSAN, via email at zachary.hughes@alcosan.org.
Any questions regarding the Purchase of Contract Bidding Documents should be directed to Tyler Trainor 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
Michael Lichte P.E. Director of Regional Conveyance
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) FOR COMPLIANCE CONSULTANT SERVICE
RFP #125-40-25
The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request proposals from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): COMPLIANCE CONSULTANT SERVICES
The documents will be available no later than November 3, 2025, and signed, sealed proposals will be accepted until 10:00 a.m. on December 10, 2025. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will only accept physical proposals dropped off in person from 9:00 AM until 11:00 a.m. on December 10, 2025, in the lobby of One Stop Shop at 412 Boulevard of the Allies Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Proposals may be uploaded to the Authority’s online submission site; the link is accessible via the HACP website and within the RFP. Sealed proposals may still be mailed via USPS at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 412 Boulevard of the Allies, 6th Floor - Procurement, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Parties or individuals interested in responding may download a copy of the Solicitation from the Business Opportunities page of www.HACP.org.
Questions or inquiries should be directed to: Brandon Havranek Associate Director of Procurement/Contracting Officer 412 Boulevard of the Allies 6th Floor - Procurement Department Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-643-2890
A pre-submission meeting will be held via Zoom meeting; on November 18, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Please see the meeting information below:
Join Zoom Meeting : Meeting ID:846 5039 4020 Passcode: 819029 Dial by your location: +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation.
Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh
HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes
OFFICIAL ADVERTISEMENT
THE BOARD OF PUBLIC EDUCATION of the SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PITTSBURGH
Submit sealed proposals to the Facilities Division, Attention: Mr. Sanjeeb Manandhar, Pittsburgh Public Schools Service Center, 1305 Muriel Street, Pittsburgh PA 15203 no later than 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 for: Request for Proposal From Solar Energy Developers For Solar Voltaic Systems At Pittsburgh Carrick High School and Pittsburgh Classical 6-8
RFP will be available to download on Monday, December 1, 2025 at the Pittsburgh Public Schools website https://www.pghschools.org/ community/business-opportunities /rfps.
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) FOR MOBILE FOOD DISTRIBUTION FOR VARIOUS PUBLIC HOUSING COMMUNITIES
RFP #800-39-25
The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request proposals from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s):
RFP #800-39-25 MOBILE FOOD DISTRIBUTION FOR VARIOUS PUBLIC HOUSING COMMUNITIES
The documents will be available no later than November 3, 2025 and signed, sealed proposals will be accepted until 11:00 a.m. on November 21, 2025. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will only accept physical proposals dropped off in person from 8:00 AM until 11:00 a.m. on November 21, 2025, in the lobby of One Stop Shop at 412 Boulevard of the Allies Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Proposals may be uploaded to the Authority’s online submission site; the link is accessible via the HACP website and within the RFP. Sealed proposals may still be mailed via USPS at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 412 Boulevard of the Allies, 6th Floor - Procurement, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Parties or individuals interested in responding may download a copy of the Solicitation from the Business Opportunities page of www.HACP.org.
Questions or inquiries should be directed to:
Brandon Havranek
Associate Director of Procurement/ Contracting Officer 412 Boulevard of the Allies 6th Floor - Procurement Department Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-643-2890
A pre-submission meeting will be held via Zoom meeting; on November 13, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. Please see the meeting information below:
Dial by your location: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation.
Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh
HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the
and
AVALON BOROUGH ADVERTISEMENT
Sealed proposals will be received by the Borough of Avalon of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania through the Quest Construction Data Network (QuestCDN) at www.questcdn.com until 11:00
AM prevailing time on December 1, 2025 for:
CONTRACT NO. 25-D01
FERNLEAF AVENUE STRUCTURE DEMOLITION
The scope of work includes complete demolition using wet-wet-wet techniques and off-site disposal of the existing structure located at 929 Fernleaf Avenue including restoration. The structure has been deemed unsafe to enter, therefore the entire structure must be considered contaminated and disposed of accordingly. All bidders are required to buy the Bid Documents in PDF format for a non-refundable deposit of $125.00 from QuestCDN using project number 9927798. Contact their Customer Support regarding membership registration, downloading and working with digital project information at 952-233-1632 or info@questcdn.com. Any technical questions regarding the bid documents are to be directed to LSSE. Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud via video conference. Interested parties may contact the Borough for access information prior to the date and time identified herein.
Pennsylvania prevailing wage rates apply. Proposals must be upon the forms furnished by the Borough. The bid must be accompanied by a certified check or bid bond in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the bid, made payable to the Borough to guarantee the bidder’s entrance into the contract if given the award. No bid bond shall be waived or returned because the Bidder has failed to or cannot comply with any requirements as set forth in the plans, specifications, or any applicable statutes of the State of Pennsylvania or any applicable municipal ordinances. The Borough reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive any informalities in the bidding. No bid may be withdrawn for ninety (90) calendar days after the scheduled time for receipt of bids. Attention is directed to the fact for Contract value exceeding $25,000, the Pennsylvania Prevailing Wage Act (Act of 1961 P.L. 987), and The Public Works Employment Verification Act (July 2012) apply. Bidders on this work will be required to comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
BOROUGH OF AVALON Lorraine Makatura, Manager
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 December 2, 2025, until 2:00 P.M., local prevailing time for: Pittsburgh Beechwood, Brookline and Sunnyside Emergency Generator Replacement
and
Work General and Asbestos Primes
Pittsburgh Obama 6-12
Finish Floor Replacement and Miscellaneous Work General and Asbestos Primes Project Manual and Drawings will be available for purchase on November 10, 2025, 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.
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) FOR HEATING VENTILATION AIR CONDITIONING
CONSULTING SERVICES AUTHORITY WIDE REBID
RFP #600-11-25 Rebid
The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request proposals from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s):
The documents will be available no later than November 3, 2025 and signed, sealed proposals will be accepted until 10:00 a.m. on December 9, 2025. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will only accept physical proposals dropped off in person from 8:00 AM until 10:00 a.m. on December 9, 2025 in the lobby of One Stop Shop at 412 Boulevard of the Allies. Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Proposals may be uploaded to the Authority’s online submission site; the link is accessible via the HACP website and within the RFP. Sealed proposals may still be mailed via USPS at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 412 Boulevard of the Allies, 6th Floor - Procurement, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.
Parties or individuals interested in responding may download a copy of the Solicitation from the Business Opportunities page of www.HACP.org.
Questions or inquiries should be directed to:
Brandon Havranek
Associate4 Director of Procurement/ Contracting Officer 412 Boulevard of the Allies 6th Floor - Procurement Department Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-643-2890
A pre-submission meeting will be held via Zoom meeting; on November 18, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. Please see the meeting information below:
The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation.
Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh HACP
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Help Wanted
Bognar and Company, Inc.
seeks Inside Sales Engineer in Pittsburgh, PA (this is an in-office position) responsible for processing customer orders, ensuring product specifications match client requirements & supporting sales operations. To apply send resume to info@ejbognar.com.
BUSINESS ANALYTICS GROUP MANAGER
The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. seeks a Business Analytics Group Manager in Pittsburgh, PA. Position allows for the ability to work from home with appropriate telecommuting systems for up to two days per week, with a minimum of three days per week in the office. Participate in all aspects of PNC’s Data Products Organization Group activities. Specific duties include: (i) direct the strategic design, management, and implementation of enterprise-wide business analytics programs to drive customer solutions, service innovation and profitability; (ii) direct the strategic design, management, and implementation of PNC’s Data & Analytics Platform and supporting processes to accelerate build and rollout of data products and analytic solutions to meet business requirements; (iii) supervise the research, development, and implementation of new and emerging analytics technologies; lead technology-based business opportunities; (iv) lead the design, build, and deployment of multiple complex data products and analytical solutions to meet specific business use cases; (v) drive awareness and adoption of data products across lines of businesses and executives; (vi) provide oversight of implementation mechanisms for ensuring that information provided is accurate, meaningful, has integrity, manages risk, and meets the needs of the senior leadership; and (vii) direct, motivate, develop, and manage the performance of the management team and key staff.
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems or Finance, plus 8 years of experience in or for the financial services industry executing strategic multi-year data and analy tics transformation initiatives with implementation teams with a headcount of 20+ resources, architecting data products and platforms, and designing and implementing data management and data governance frameworks is required. Must have 5 years of experience in or for the financial services industry with: (i) managing solutions delivery coordinating across data, technology and business teams located in multiple geographies; (ii) managing executive and senior stakeholder relationships; and (iii) mentoring, developing and managing performance of teams with a headcount of 20+ resources.
Must have any experience with: (i) leading data and analytics programs and related workstreams addressing enterprise strategic priorities; (ii) performing program management activities including scoping, planning, risk and issue management, status communication and spend tracking; (iii) interacting with key stakeholders and executive leadership to facilitate meetings, gather information and present findings; (iv) designing data and analytics platforms based on the Data Fabric or Data Mesh refer ence architectures (including design of data engineering components, processes, frameworks and accelerators); (v) leading data and analytics technologies and toolsets including Hadoop, Oracle, MongoDB, Neo4J, Kafka Streaming, Elastic Stack, GraphQL API, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning; (vi) performing evaluation of emerging data tools, technologies , and vendor solutions to assess fitness for use; (vii) performing requirements analysis, preparing data product design options and recommendations; (viii) designing data ontologies; and (ix) designing and implementing data governance, control and data quality assurance frameworks and functions. 40 hours/week, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Interested individuals apply online at www.pnc.com using keyword R199709 . PNC provides equal employment opportunity to qualified persons regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or other categories protected by law.
POLICE OFFICER- WILKINSBURG BOROUGH
Qualified persons are invited to apply to the Borough of Wilkinsburg Civil Service Commission to take a competitive exam leading to eligibility for appointment as a patrol officer for the Wilkinsburg Police Department. Examinations are scheduled for February 3, 2026.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:
Candidates at the time of application must (1) Possess a diploma from an accredited high school or a graduate equivalency diploma (GED): (2) Accepting candidates without Act 120 certification for testing; the probationary period will begin after such certification has been obtained, including passing the final exam (3) Be a United States Citizen; (4) Be physically and mentally fit to perform the full duties of a police officer; (5) be a least eighteen (18) years of age; and (6) must possess a valid Pennsylvania Driver License. Wilkinsburg Borough residency is not required.
Successful applicants must also meet all of the requirements of the Borough’s Civil Service Rules and Regulations that will include a background investigation, polygraph examination, and if selected, be required to successfully pass a physical and psychological examination.
An application form and details of this selection process may be obtained at the Wilkinsburg Borough Building Police Department, located at 605 Ross Avenue, Suite 101 Wilkinsburg, PA 15221, between the hours of 9:00a.m. and 4:30p.m. Monday thru Friday. A completed application, must be filed before 4:30p.m. on January 19, 2026.
The physical test and written examination will be conducted at the Allegheny County Police Academy on February 3, 2026. The written examination will be administered to those who successfully the physical fitness test.
Job Type: Full - time Pay: $84,487.93 per year
Benefits:
• Dental, health, vision and life insurances
• Retirement Plan Schedule: 8- hour shifts
Work Location: In person
An Equal Opportunity Employer
JOB OPPORTUNITIES Help Wanted
INFRASTRUCTURE SUPPORT TECHNICIAN
Pittsburgh Regional Transit is seeking an Infrastructure Support Technician to participate in the inspection, set-up, installation, maintenance, problem diagnosis, and repair of computer hardware, and related peripherals, including software installation for Port Authority of Allegheny County d/b/a Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT). Identifies, analyzes, troubleshoots and resolves client technical service requests and basic network connectivity issues with Network or Internet. Works as a team member to collaboratively resolve client requests and technical issues with other team members, partners and vendors.
Essential Functions:
• Provide first-line support in the event of PC software/hardware problems to include, but not limited to, supporting users by triaging calls and remotely diagnosing and resolving requests utilizing remote tools while upholding company computer policy and procedure guidelines, as well as recommends new and improved guidelines to ensure compatibility and better service end-users of personal computers.
• Installs, configures and troubleshoots current Windows operating systems and other desktop applications.
• Maintains software and hardware registration and inventory to provide upgrades, as necessary, and insure appropriate security levels are maintained.
Job requirements include:
• High school diploma or GED
• Associate’s degree or two (2) years of college in computer science, information technology, or related field from an accredited college or university. Related experience may be substituted for education on a year-for-year basis.
• Minimum of three (3) years of’ experience in hardware repair, installation, and maintenance. No certifications or licenses required.
• Demonstrated ability in the use of Windows, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Internet Explorer.
• Professional and effective communication skills.
• Customer-oriented approach to problem solving issues regarding the PC.
• Valid PA driver’s license.
Preferred attributes:
• A + certification
• Network+ certification.
• Experience with VMware (virtualization) software suite.
• Knowledge of TCP/IP and troubleshooting.
“Education is the key to unlock the golden door of freedom.”
-
George Washington Carver
Achieve! School Choice Guide
New Pittsburgh Courier November 12-18, 2025
Will the Pell Grant program run out of funds to help college students?
Founded 1910
Rod Doss Editor & Publisher
Stephan A. Broadus Assistant to the Publisher
Rob Taylor Jr. Managing Editor
Ashley Johnson Director of Sales
by Tcherika Petit-Frere Howard University News Service
Many people worry about the future of the Pell Grant program, which is operated under the Department of Education, in light of President Donald Trump’s plans to shut down the federal agency or remove some of its responsibilities.
While the Trump Administration is unlikely to eliminate the Pell Grant, its funding is running out. Without extra funding, students may receive reduced aid—or
none at all—over the next decade.
The federal government paid out $27.2 billion in the academic year 20222023, Statista reported, but that funding level appears to be no longer sustainable.
“The Pell Grant Program is now expected to run out of reserves by the end of this year (2025) and is expected to face a $71 billion to $111 billion 10-year shortfall, based on new data from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO),” according to the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget.
The Roots of the Pell Grant
The first federal program aimed to help college students graduate can be traced back to the 1940s with the passage of the GI Bill, which gave veterans and their family members money to help cover the cost of tuition for school or training.
Then, in the 1950s, the federal government created its first student loan and loan forgiveness program. Almost a decade later, Congress passed the Higher Education Act of 1965, a program initially meant to provide grants to low-income students to help pay for
college. It was later renamed Pell Grants.
According to a report from the Education Data Initiative, “African Americans receive 57 percent of Pell Grant funding, followed by American Indians with 51 percent, Hispanics with 46 percent, Pacific Islanders with 35 percent, Whites with 31 percent, and Asians with 30 percent.”
While the Pell Grant is a powerful resource for helping low-income students afford college, the funding does not have the same impact as it did
The New Pittsburgh Courier acknowledges Graphic Designer Warren King for his contributions to the Courier’s 2025 School Choice Guide.
AFRICAN AMERICANS RECEIVE 57 PERCENT OF PELL GRANT FUNDING, ACCORDING TO THE EDUCATION DATA INITIATIVE. (PHOTO: LATRELL CATON/HOWARD UNIVERSITY)
CCAC prepares students for success
Visit any of CCAC’s campuses and centers and you will find a diverse population of students engaged in exciting learning environments. They are preparing for careers as cybersecurity support specialists, airline pilots, court reporting and captioning professionals, nurses, physical therapy assistants and more. Some are training to operate, maintain and troubleshoot equipment in microchip facilities, while others are honing skills for jobs in the food service industry.
Although many graduate with a two-year degree or certificate and find a job soon after graduation, even more CCAC students successfully transfer to 500+ colleges and universities. And now, there’s a new wave of adult learners who are returning to
the college to add to their professional skills or train for new careers.
Increasingly, nontraditional students and students with limited resources are selecting CCAC as their first choice to access higher education. With flexible course options, including online and evening classes, more adult learners are recognizing that CCAC—where
81 percent of students graduate debt-free—offers affordable, high-quality educational opportunities for family-sustaining careers. Staff are available on-site and online to help students with all facets of admissions, registration and financial aid. The college has also expanded workforce development and training through programs in the skilled trades, trades ap-
prenticeships, health care, information technologies, advanced manufacturing, automation technologies, and short-term and noncredit programming.
CCAC is building for the future as it continues its longstanding commitment to provide quality, affordable education and unlimited opportunities for all.
For more information, visit ccac.edu.
City Charter High School: Where Excellence Meets Opportunity
At City Charter High School, students don’t just earn a diploma— they graduate ready for life. Located in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh, City High is a tuition-free public charter school that prepares students for success—academically, technologically, and socially.
For more than 20 years, City High has provided a personalized learning experience with small class sizes and a unique looping model where teachers stay with their students for all four years of high school. This approach builds lasting relationships, consistency, and a deep understanding of each student’s needs.
Top 5 Reasons to Choose City High
1. Rigorous Academics, Real Results
A challenging, project-based curriculum includes honors classes, dual enrollment opportunities, and technology-rich learning. City High proudly holds a 94 percent graduation rate, one of the highest in Pennsylvania.
2. Professionalism That Sets Us Apart
From the business-casual dress code to workplace readiness and financial literacy classes, students practice professional skills every day—building confidence that colleges and employers notice.
3. Real-World Experience
Every student completes a 13-week mentored internship, gaining hands-on experience and professional networks that last well beyond graduation.
4. Support That Lasts Four Years
Looping teacher teams and one-on-one mentors provide consistent academic and personal support, fostering a strong link between school and home.
5. A Smarter Schedule for Students
City High’s year-round, three-trimester calendar and four-day school week (Tuesday–Friday) promote balance, focus, and sustained learning. Come see why City High was ranked as the top charter high school in Pittsburgh by Niche. com. Schedule a tour or apply at City High.org/ Admissions/ or call 412690-2489, ext. 111.
Will the federal Pell Grant program run out of funds?
African American students
account for 57 percent of all federal Pell Grants
PELL GRANTS FROM PAGE 1
when it was created.
A Change in Value Over the Years
The maximum Pell Grant amount for the 2024-2025 school year is $7,395 based on a parent’s expected family contribution (EFC), and the minimum amount granted is $740.
The average cost of tuition is $11,610 per year at public in-state schools; $30,780 for public out-of-state schools and $43,350 for private four-year colleges, according to a 2024 report from the College Board, a nonprofit organization that helps students prepare for college. It is known for the Scho -
lastic Assessment Test (SAT) and Advanced Placement (AP) classes.
“The Pell Grant, for decades now in this country, has been used as a critical federally funded tool to create more affordable pathways for higher education in the United States,” said Jorge Burmicky, Ph.D., an assistant professor of Higher Education Leadership and Policy Studies at Howard University. “So obviously, the biggest problem that we have right now as it relates to equity is that the value of the Pell is no longer as much as it used to be, compared to the cost of college today.”
A Push to
#DoublePell and #DoTheFAFSA
Several organizations —including the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) —are urging Congress to #DoublePell and raise the maximum award to $13,000.
“At its peak, the maximum grant covered three-quarters of the cost of attending a fouryear public college,” NASFAA and its partners wrote in a joint letter to Congress. “Now, it covers less than onethird of that cost,” they said. “Students … are in critical need of additional grant aid to pay for college. Doubling the maximum Pell Grant — and permanently index -
ing the grant to inflation to ensure its value doesn’t diminish over time—will boost college enrollment, improve graduation rates, and honor the history and value of these grants as the keystone federal investment in college affordability.”
Another pressing issue is the decline in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)—the form students must submit to qualify for Pell.
“FAFSA completions for the class of 2024 have not caught up with previous enrollment cycles and while the gap in recent weeks has been closing, completion rates are still down 24.3 percent compared
to the previous academic year,” according to a report from the National College Attainment Network (NCAN), a nonprofit organization aiming to increase equity in postsecondary education access.
NCAN has several initiatives to raise FAFSA competitions compared to previous years, said Simone Pringle, a program associate.
“NCAN offers members working at all levels across the country best practice approaches to driving FAFSA completion rates,” Pringle said. “In previous years, we’ve spearheaded a nationwide direct-to-student #DoTheFAFSA campaign, and we continue to release data
on high school seniors’ FAFSA completion rates through our FAFSA Tracker dashboard.” While the Pell Grant won’t be affected by the future downsizing of the federal Department of Education, it needs to be restructured to continue easing the financial burden students face with access to postsecondary education.
(Tcherika Petit-Frere is an education reporter for HUNewsService. com.)
Falk Laboratory School is a child-centered learning environment affiliated with the School of Education at the University of Pittsburgh. Founded in 1931 and independently operated, we offer K–8 students a progressive education grounded in community, inquiry-based learning, and hands-on experiences. In keeping with progressive education principles, students are at the heart of all we do and always serve as active participants in their learning journey. From the time they enter Falk as kindergarteners until they graduate from
Falk Laboratory School— A Space for Big Thinking
eighth grade, their curiosity is brought to life through exploration and project-based learning.
When alumni return to visit, they often recall the lifelong relationships they built, the way teachers valued their voices, and the skills they developed through signature Falk projects like mapping the city of Pittsburgh with 3D buildings, exploring simple machines with marble roller coasters, and investigating history and ethics with mock trials.
From these signature experiences to specialty classes like yoga and digital citizenship, our classrooms are dynamic
spaces where students engage with real problems, ask big questions, and develop the confidence and skills to make meaningful contributions in their lives.
Learn more or schedule a tour today at falkschool.pitt.edu.
Parents of young children are feeling the pressure to put their kids in the right school
Deciding where to send your child to Kindergarten has become one of the most high-stakes moments in many American families’ lives.
A few factors have made selecting an elementary school particularly challenging in recent years.
For one, there are simply more schools for parents to pick from over the past few decades, ranging from traditional public and private to a growing number of magnet and charter pro-
grams. There are also new policies in some places, such as New York City, that allow parents to select not just their closest neighborhood public school, but schools across and outside of the districts where they live.
As a scholar of sociology and education, I have seen how the expanding range of school options— sometimes called school choice—has spread nationwide and is particularly a prominent factor in New York City.
I spoke with a diverse range of more than 100 New York City parents across income levels and racial and ethnic backgrounds from 2014 to 2019 as part of research
for my 2025 book, “Kindergarten Panic: Parental Anxiety and School Choice Inequality.” All of these parents felt pressure trying to select a school for their elementary school-age children, and school choice options post-COVID-19 have only increased. Some parents experience this pressure a bit more acutely than others.
Women often see their choice of school as a reflection of whether they are good moms, my interviews show. Parents of color feel pressure to find a racially inclusive school. Other parents worry about finding niche schools that offer dual-language programs, for example, or other specialties.
Navigating schools in New York City
Every year, about 65,000 New York City Kindergartners are matched to more than 700 public schools. New York City Kindergartners typically attend their nearest public school in the neighborhood and get a priority place at this school. This school is often called someone’s zoned school. Even so, a spot at your local school isn’t guaranteed—students get priority if they apply on time.
While most Kindergartners still attend their zoned schools, their attendance rate is decreasing. While 72 percent of Kindergartners in the city attended their zoned school in the 2007-08 school year, 60 percent did so in the 2016-17 school year. One reason is that
since 2003, New York City parents have been able to apply to outof-zone schools when seats were available. And in 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic began, all public school applications moved entirely online. This shift allowed parents to easily rank 12 different school options they liked, inside and outside of their zones. Still, New York City public schools remain one of the most segregated in the country, divided by race and class.
Pressure to be a good mom
Many of the mothers I interviewed from 2015 through 2019 said that getting their child into what they considered a “good” school reflected good mothering. Mothers took the primary responsibility for their school search, whether they had partners or not, and regardless of their social class, as well as racial and ethnic background.
In 2017, I spoke with Janet, a White, married mother who at the time was 41 years old and had an infant and a 3-year-old. Janet worked as a web designer and lived in Queens. She explained that she started a group in 2016 to connect with other mothers, in part to discuss schools. Though Janet’s children were a few years away from Kindergarten, she believed that she had started her research for public schools too late. She spent multiple hours each week looking up information during her limited spare time. She learned
that other moms were talking to other parents, researching test results, analyzing school reviews and visiting schools in person.
Janet said she wished she had started looking for schools when her son was was 1 or 2 years old, like other mothers she knew. She expressed fear that she was failing as a mother. Eventually, Janet enrolled her son in a non-zoned public school in another Queens neighborhood.
Pressure to find an inclusive school
Regardless of their incomes, Black, Latino and immigrant families I interviewed also felt pressure to evaluate whether the public schools they considered were racially and ethnically inclusive. Parents worried that racially insensitive policies related to bullying, curriculum and discipline would negatively affect their children.
In 2015, I spoke with Fumi, a Black, immigrant mother of two young children. At the time, Fumi was 37 years old and living in Washington Heights in north Manhattan. She described her uncertain search for a public school. Fumi thought that New York City’s gifted and talented programs at public schools might be a better option academically than other public schools that didn’t offer an advanced track for some students. But the gifted and talented programs often lacked racial diversity, and Fumi did not want her son to be the only Black student in his class. Still, Fumi had her son
tested for the 2015 gifted and talented exam and enrolled him in one of these programs for Kindergarten.
Once Fumi’s son began attending the gifted and talented school, Fumi worried that the constant bullying he experienced was racially motivated. Though Fumi remained uneasy about the bullying and lack of diversity, she decided to keep him at the school because of the school’s strong academic quality.
Pressure to find a niche school
Many of the parents I interviewed who earned more than $50,000 a year wanted to find specialty schools that offered advanced courses, dual-language programs and progressive-oriented curriculum. Parents like Renata, a 44-yearold Asian mother of four, and Stella, a 39-yearold Black mother of one, sent their kids to out-of-neighborhood public schools.
In 2016, Renata described visiting multiple schools and researching options so she could potentially enroll her four children in different schools that met each of their particular needs. Stella, meanwhile, searched for schools that would de-emphasize testing, nurture her son’s creativity and provide flexible learning options.
In contrast, the working-class parents I interviewed who made less than $50,000 annually often sought schools that mirrored their own school experiences. Few working-class parents I spoke with selected
out-of-neighborhood and high academically performing schools.
New York City data points to similar results —low-income families are less likely than people earning more than them to attend schools outside of their neighborhoods.
For instance, Black working-class parents like 47-year-old Risha, a mother of four, and 53-year-old Jeffery, a father of three, who attended New York City neighborhood public schools themselves as children told me in 2016 that they decided to send their children to local public schools. Based on state performance indicators, students at these particular schools performed lower on standard assessments than schools on average.
Cracks in the system
The parents I spoke with all live in New York City, which has a uniquely complicated education system. Yet the pressures they face are reflective of the evolving public school choice landscape for parents across the country. Parents nationwide are searching for schools with vastly different resources and concerns about their children’s future well-being and success.
When parents panic about Kindergarten, they reveal cracks in the foundation of American schooling. In my view, parental anxiety about Kindergarten is a response to an unequal, high-stakes education system.
BAILEY BROWN, PH.D.
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AT PROPEL SCHOOLS, WE FIRMLY BELIEVE THAT EVERY CHILD SHOULD HAVE ACCESS TO A HIGH-QUALITY EDUCATION.
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