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www.newpittsburghcourier.com Vol. 114 No. 52 Two Sections

DECEMBER 27, 2023 - JANUARY 2, 2024

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‘Black Nativity’— 30 years of Black excellence

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

by Renee P. Aldrich For New Pittsburgh Courier

THE NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION SAVE A LIFE TODAY PITTSBURGH (SALT) HELD ITS ANNUAL CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION AT PPG PAINTS ARENA ON DEC. 15. CHECK OUT PAGES A4-5 TO SEE THE COURIER’S COVERAGE FROM PHOTOGRAPHER RICCO J.L. MARTELLO.

In a festive celebration at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center on Thursday evening, Dec. 13, about 100 people gathered for a reception commemorating 30 years of the Shona Sharif African Dance and Drumming Ensemble “Black Nativity.”

This event was a precursor to the annual holiday run of the rousing musical “Black Nativity.” The musical for 2023 ran from Dec. 15-23 at the Stephen Foster Memorial Theater in Oakland.

The production was first started by the Wilkinsburg Arts Council. In the second year, it was choreographed by Shona Sharif,

who was a senior lecturer at the University of Pittsburgh, an African Dance instructor and the creator of the Shona Sharif African Dance and Drumming Ensemble. The third year is when she completely took over the musical and produced it until her untimely death in 1999.

The evolution of the “Black Nativity” has happened in a variety of ways, going from a one week run in the early days, to two weekends to three weekends.

In this, its 30th year in 2023, Maurice Redwood, a seasoned participant in the production, having started out as a drummer SEE BLACK NATIVITY A3

‘A jail stay as a teen led me to advocacy, but incarceration leads many to ruin’ A FIRST PERSON ESSAY

by Muhammad Ali Nasir PublicSource

In the early hours of Sept. 2, 2005, my family’s sense of normalcy was interrupted by an aggressive banging on the door.

I stood at the top of the stairs as my brother answered only to be pushed aside by four police officers. They pointed at me, stating I was under arrest.

My brother demanded to see a warrant, which they eventually presented after threatening to arrest him for obstruction of justice. I was allowed to put on shoes before being handcuffed, along with my nephew, and escorted into the back of a police cruiser.

It was the start of my long and challenging journey through the criminal justice system. I was just 16, wrongly accused and horribly unprepared.

Even as the county moves to reopen the Shuman Juvenile Detention Center—ostensibly to get kids out of the Allegheny County Jail—my own experience with incarceration shows that the entire approach to law enforcement of youth needs to be re-examined beyond the location of their detention.

Naive beliefs, feelings of insignificance Two weeks after my arrest, following my release on a $3,000 cash bail, I stood in front of Pittsburgh City Council, speaking about my experience in the Allegheny County Jail.

This was solely at the urging of my mother, who had been deeply affected by my arrest and incarceration. Her anger was visible, and she made it known to everyone who would listen, from the Carnegie Police Department to the corrections officers at the jail and my public defender. She believed my story needed to be heard and that I was the best person to tell it.

As I spoke before Council, I remember feeling a mix of nervousness and encouragement bolstered by the presence of my mother and aunt. However, the response was disheartening as only one council member seemed to listen attentively, while the rest and the audience ignored me completely. I felt that my experience was common enough to be insignificant in the grand scheme of things.

It wasn’t until 2019, when I joined the Bukit Bail Fund, that I began to see value in what I had been through, and to understand the context.

In November of 1995, the Pennsylvania Judi-

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cial Code was amended under Act 33, allowing minors accused of certain crimes, such as armed robbery, to be charged and tried as adults. This legal backdrop meant that instead of being taken to a juvenile detention center, which I had anticipated, I found myself treated as an adult instead of the child I was.

Reflecting now, I see parallels between my story and those of many young people I’ve supported over the years who have been similarly charged as adults and placed in jail.

The closure of Shuman and the subsequent doubling of the juvenile population in ACJ underscore the urgency and importance of my work in advocating for these young individuals and their families.

My firsthand experience with the criminal legal system at such a young age was a rude awakening. Before that, I had held a naive belief in the fairness and justness of the law—that police required substantial evidence to charge someone, that judges were impartial, and that, according to the U.S. Constitution, one was innocent until proven guilty. However, my arrest, based solely on an accuser’s word against mine; my original bail of $25,000, which was arbitrarily set significantly higher than that of my co-defendant; and my subsequent treatment in the Allegheny County Jail quickly dispelled these beliefs.

MUHAMMAD ALI NASIR, ALSO KNOWN BY HIS EMCEE NAME MAN-E, THE ADVOCACY, POLICY AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT COORDINATOR FOR 1HOOD AND FOUNDER OF COMMUNITY CARE & RESISTANCE IN PITTSBURGH, STANDS OUTSIDE THE ALLEGHENY COUNTY JAIL ON OCT. 24. (PHOTO BY STEPHANIE STRASBURG/PUBLICSOURCE)

Allegheny County’s population is 13 percent Black. But its jail population is 66 percent Black. The Allegheny County Jail houses on average, 1,730 people per day, or 1,142 African Americans per day.

‘Is that it?’

From the moment I arrived in the jail, I felt the climate of negativity and the undertone of violence.

I didn’t receive an iota of respect from the jail staff as I was ordered from one single cell to another.

I waited hours at a time between the logistical procedures of the intake process. I remember dozing

off and being awakened by the kick of a corrections officer before he ordered me to the next station.

Over the next several days, I was searched, arraigned, photographed, questioned and stripsearched before being forced into the red uniform that marked me as an inmate and taken upstairs to the housing units. When I think of the time I spent

in the ACJ, I recall the deplorable conditions that make it among the deadliest jails in the country.

For almost a week, I was kept in isolation, locked in a cell for 23 hours a day without explanation.

My pod was not exclusive to minors, leading to me eventually mixing with SEE JAIL A3

NATIONAL

A2 DECEMBER 27, 2023 - JANUARY 2, 2024

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

This Week In Black History

A Courier Staple •DECEMBER 27

1873—William A. Harper, one of the most gifted Black artists of the 20th century, is born in Cayuga, Canada.

He was a student at the Henry O. Tanner Art Institute in Chicago. Unfortunately, his brilliance was cut short by tuberculosis. He died in Mexico at the age of 36 in 1910.

1956—Segregation is outlawed on public buses in Tallahassee, Fla. The decision followed a six-month long boycott by the city’s African-American population. The boycott was patterned after the Montgomery, Ala., bus boycott sparked by Rosa Parks’ refusal to give up her seat to a White man.

• DECEMBER 28

MEDIA MOGUL OPRAH WINFREY stands beside a newly commissioned portrait of herself that unveiled at the National Portrait Gallery on Dec. 13, along with Chicago-based artist Shawn Michael Warren, who painted the portrait. (Credit: Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

Oprah Winfrey portrait unveiled at the National Portrait Gallery

by Brenda C. Siler The Washington Informer

Oprah Winfrey called it an unimaginable dream when considering the portrait of her revealed Wednesday at the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery.

Painted by Chicago artist Shawn Michael Warren, a few hundred people gasped and applauded when the drape was pulled from the painting. Winfrey was shown standing in her prayer garden at her home in Montecito, California, wearing a purple taffeta dress designed by Christian Siriano.

The framed portrait is nearly seven feet tall and was unveiled in the museum’s Robert and Arlene Kogod Courtyard.

The commissioned work of art is now hanging at the Portrait Gallery for public viewing.

In her remarks, Winfrey reflected on her feelings leading up to the unveiling when gazing out her window from her home. Winfrey’s gratitude was felt through an emotional message.

“The view was so beautiful. The light was so perfect,” said Winfrey. “I stepped back and did a rewind to ensure that I was alive and breathing, and it wasn’t just in a dream.”

Warren noted the in-

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credible honor to have painted a piece for the National Portrait Gallery.

“It’s been a pleasure to add your portrait to this institution into the canons of art history,” said Warren, who introduced Winfrey. “Understanding the tradition of the art of portraiture, you could have chosen anyone. But you saw fit that an artist from the place you called

Bunch. “I think what Oprah has helped us do is she helped America understand who we are today. More importantly, Oprah pointed America toward what it can become.”

Gayle King, “CBS Morning” co-anchor and Winfrey’s best friend, was in the audience for the occasion.

“She didn’t know what she was going to say,”

1816—The American Colonization Society is organized by Robert Finley with the aim of returning Blacks to Africa. Ironically, it received support from two groups with opposing interests. Some abolitionists and philanthropists who wanted to end slavery supported the ACS with the hope of giving slaves a chance to start new, free lives in Africa. Meanwhile, some slave owners supported the ACS because they saw it as a way of ridding the country of free Blacks who they saw as stirring up trouble among Blacks who were still enslaved. It is estimated that at this time, there were 2 million enslaved Blacks and 200,000 free Blacks in America. In 10 years, the ACS returned nearly 3,000 Blacks to Africa. They helped to form what are today the West African nations of Liberia and Sierra Leone.

Indeed, the first president of Liberia was an American Black who had returned to Africa.

1905—Legendary Jazz great and pianist Earl “Fatha” Hines is born on this day in Duquesne, Pa., near Pittsburgh. He was in a class by himself and a major influence not only in Jazz but also upon the Swing and Bebop eras of American popular music. He collaborated with such greats as Louis Armstrong, Charlie Parker, Sarah Vaughn and Dizzy Gillespie. He died in 1983. Among his best known hits were “Stormy Monday Blues” and “Second Balcony Jump.”

1954—Movie star Denzel Washington is born on this day in Mt. Vernon, N.Y.

• DECEMBER 29

1939—One of the most outstanding educators of the 20th century, Kelly Miller, dies in Washington, D.C. He was a champion of education for Blacks and was among that group of more radical Blacks who opposed the accommodating policies of Booker T. Washington. In 1887, Miller became the first African American admitted to Johns Hopkins University. He became a long-time professor and dean at Howard University, while also being a prolific writer, essayist and newspaper columnist.

• DECEMBER 30

home during your rise to prominence should be given this honor.”

Painting Winfrey is not new for Warren. One of his latest works is a life-size mural of Winfrey co-created with artists Jane Barthes, Anna Murphy, and Kalan Strauss in 2020. That mural is located in Chicago’s West Loop, where Winfrey’s Harpo Studios filmed The Oprah Winfrey Show. In introducing Winfrey, his words were directed not only to a media mogul, but his friend and muse.

Winfrey has long supported the Smithsonian, especially the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Her verbal and financial support has been acknowledged in many ways, including an auditorium in her name in that museum. Lonnie G. Bunch, III, Ph.D. 14th secretary of the Smithsonian spoke about Winfrey’s impact.

“Being part of the Smithsonian means that you are permanently remembered. It’s an honor not everybody gets, but it’s well deserved,” said

said King. “But of course, she spoke from her heart.

She was Oprah.”

Warren emphasized the importance of Winfrey’s likeness in a place like the National Portrait Gallery, which attracts people from around the nation and world. He offered a call for the arts institution.

“Thank you for being the cultural hub in which Miss Winfrey and I deposited our contribution to art history in world history,” said Warren. “We are leaving with one request. That the Portrait Gallery continues to guide, protect, and foster meaningful relationships with artists.

That includes the social part of chronicling, the game changers, and happenings of our society.”

The National Portrait Gallery is at Eighth and G streets NW in Washington, D.C. The Oprah Winfrey portrait is a part of the permanent collection at the gallery.

For more information, go to npg.si.edu.

1928—R&B music legend Bo Diddley is born Ellas Bates on this day in McComb, Miss. He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and received Lifetime Achievement Awards from the Rhythm and Blues Foundation and a Grammy Award from the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. He was known in particular for his technical innovations, including his trademark rectangular guitar.

1929—Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority is officially incorporated. The international Black sorority was actually organized Nov. 22, 1922, by seven teachers in Indianapolis, Ind. It is currently headquartered in Cary, N.C., with the theme: “Sisterhood, Scholarship and Service.”

1929—A Black boycott of unfair store hiring practices begins during the Great Depression. The “Don’t Buy Where You Can’t Work” campaign began in Chicago with the picketing of a chain of stores. It soon spread to New York, Los Angeles, Cleveland and several other major cities.

• DECEMBER 31

1862—This day has become known as “Watch Night”—the eve of the Emancipation Proclamation going into effect and nominally freeing slaves in the Confederacy. Thousands of free Blacks gathered in various locations throughout the nation to “watch” for midnight when the Emancipation of slaves became the law of the land.

A focal point for celebration was the home of abolitionist Frederick Doug-

las in Rochester, N.Y.

• JANUARY 1

1804—Jean Jacques Dessalines proclaims the independence of Haiti from France. The island nation, after the United States, becomes the second independent republic in the Western Hemisphere. The chief slogan of his independence speech was “Live free or die.” The Haitian war of independence had actually begun in August of 1791. The leader and greatest hero of that war was a former slave who worked as a carriage driver—Toussaint L’Ouverture. As a general, L’Ouverture was comparable to, and in some respects superior to, America’s George Washington and France’s Napoleon Bonaparte. However, under the ruse of discussing peace, L’Ouverture was tricked into traveling to France where he died in prison in April of 1803. The Haitians nevertheless prevailed over the French under the leadership of Dessalines and he was able to declare independence on this day in 1804.

1854—Lincoln University becomes one of the first institutions of higher learning for Blacks in America when it is incorporated as Ashmun Institute in Oxford, Pa., on this day in 1854.

1863—The Emancipation Proclamation becomes law. Like many of the pro-Black measures taken

by President Abraham Lincoln, the Emancipation, while welcomed by Blacks, reflected many contradictions. First of all, it only freed slaves in the South—an area of the country over which Lincoln at the time had no effective control. Further, it did not free slaves in the Border States. And even in the South, it exempted from nominal freedom slaves in 13 parishes in Louisiana, including New Orleans; 48 counties in West Virginia; and seven counties in Virginia, including Norfolk.

1997—Kofi Annan of Ghana becomes the first Black Secretary General of the United Nations.

1997—The notorious Robbens Island off the coast of South Africa, the prison that held legendary Black freedom fighter Nelson Mandela for 27 years, was converted into a museum.

• JANUARY 2

1831—William Lloyd Garrison (18051879), one of the great White heroes of Black history, begins publishing the anti-slavery newspaper, The Liberator, in Boston. Garrison was a fiery and strong-willed abolitionist who believed in the “immediate and complete” end of slavery. Thus, he ran afoul of not only the pro-slavery crowd but also those anti-slavery activists who favored a gradualist approach to the problem. He was so militant that he was imprisoned for libel because of his criticism of a merchant involved in the slave trade and at one point the state of Georgia offered a $5,000 reward for his arrest and conviction. According to Garrison, when it came to fighting slavery he was opposed to “timidity, injustice and absurdity.” His oft-repeated slogan as editor of The Liberator was, “I am in earnest; I will not equivocate; I will not retreat a single inch; and I will be heard.”

1837—The first National Negro Catholic Congress is held in Washington, D.C. 1898—Brilliant scholar Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander is born. She was the first Black woman to receive a doctorate in economics in America.

She accomplished that feat in 1921 at the University of Pennsylvania at the age of 23. Later she earned a law degree and in 1927 became the first Black woman admitted to the Pennsylvania bar. She came from a distinguished family of educated and accomplished Blacks. She died in 1989.

1915—One of America’s most prominent historians, John Hope Franklin, is born. Perhaps his best known work on Black history is “From Slavery to Freedom.”

1954—Oprah Winfrey, talk show queen and Black America’s first recognized billionaire, is born in Kosciusko, Miss. (There is some debate.

Winfrey may have been the second Black billionaire after Black Entertainment Television founder Bob Johnson.) Winfrey retired from the “Oprah Winfrey Show” in 2011 and started her own network named OWN.

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DECEMBER 27, 2023 - JANUARY 2, 2024 A3

A FIRST PERSON ESSAY BY MUHAMMAD ALI NASIR ‘For a Black person in America, adulthood means coming to terms with being perceived as part of an inferior social class, undeserving of fair and equal treatment under the law. I once accepted this as the norm, but I now recognize it as unacceptable.’

JAIL FROM A1

the adult majority. I lost weight because the jail refused to accommodate my vegetarian diet, leaving me malnourished and vulnerable.

I witnessed rampant bullying and abuse by both the jail staff and the residents that underscored the culture of the jail itself. I watched a man get beaten unconscious and lose control of his bladder while others looked on in amusement. As he was taken away on a stretcher, my name was called for my first visit. It was my mother, who was unable to conceal the pain caused by seeing her youngest son enduring conditions she hoped I would never have to.

After my preliminary hearing, my bail was reduced from $25,000 to $3,000, and my family was able to pay a percentage to a bail bondsman to facilitate my release. Over the next few months, I fought my case in criminal court until my attorney filed a petition for decertification, which allowed my case to instead be tried in Juvenile Court.

After I was decertified, I started the legal process again, but this time as a juvenile. I was arraigned in a courtroom at Shuman, placed on home detention for the duration of the case and assigned a new attorney who I didn’t meet until the day of my trial.

I remember being shocked by the differences between juvenile and criminal court. If found guilty in criminal court, I could’ve been sentenced to 5 to 10 years in a state correctional institution. In juvenile court, I would’ve been placed in the Com-

munity Intensive Supervision Project.

Even after the massive reduction in potential sentencing, I still refused to accept a plea bargain and admit guilt for a crime of which I was innocent.

When the judge dismissed the case, I remember everyone casually gathering their belongings and exiting the courtroom. I looked at my lawyer and asked, “Is that it?”

It was.

There was no apology from the court for what my family and I had endured for over a year. There was no accountability for the person who falsely accused me, or the officers who failed to conduct a thorough investigation. There was no recompense for the time and money spent to prove my innocence. There was nothing.

What if the money went to engagement?

Time can never be reversed, and trauma can never be undone. My family and I didn’t skip around our experiences; we had no choice but to persevere through them.

Even 18 years later, a forceful knock on my mother’s door triggers back spasms so severe she’s left lying on the floor.

I was forced to live with the stigma of being labeled a criminal, enduring constant surveillance, harassment by police, illegal searches and several unjust arrests. The problems didn’t stop when my charges were dropped. Most recently, in May 2020, I was violently arrested along with 45 others during a protest in Pittsburgh of George Floyd’s murder by Minneapolis police.

None of these experiences, however, impacted me as much as my initial arrest, which thrust me into adulthood. For a Black person in America, adulthood means coming to terms with being perceived as part of an inferior social class, undeserving of fair and equal treatment under the law. I once accepted this as the norm, but I now recognize it as unacceptable.

Today, my work with organizations like 1Hood Media and Community Care & Resistance In Pittsburgh [CCRIP] is driven by my experiences and those of my community. We aim to create a network of care and support, advocating for those entangled in the criminal legal system, and challenging its punitive nature. We support individuals and families in several ways, from bailing people out of jail to providing direct aid upon their release. Our weekly presence outside the ACJ, offering cash, food, clothes, and most importantly a sense of humanity, is a small but significant step toward change.

My story, while personal, is not unique. It reflects the broader narrative of mass incarceration and systemic racial and social oppression in the United States.

The disproportionate representation of poor and Black people in prisons and jails is a testament. In Allegheny County, while Black people make up 13 percent of the population, we’re consistently populating two-thirds of the jail. The prevalence of plea bargains, often accepted regardless of guilt, highlights the systemic flaws and the punitive nature of our criminal legal system.

My co-defendant, of whose

MUHAMMAD ALI NASIR TALKS WITH PEOPLE OUTSIDE THE ALLEGHENY COUNTY JAIL ON OCT. 24.

COMMUNITY CARE & RESISTANCE IN PITTSBURGH ON TUESDAYS OUTSIDE THE JAIL PROVIDES DIRECT AID SUCH AS CASH, SUPPLIES, TRANSPORTATION, SUPPORT, AND RESOURCE NAVIGATION FOR UNHOUSED INDIVIDUALS AND THOSE RECENTLY RELEASED FROM THE ACJ. (PHOTO BY STEPHANIE STRASBURG/PUBLICSOURCE) innocence I am convinced, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to three to six years in prison, the first of numerous jail and prison terms he’s served.

The potential reopening of Shuman,with Adelphoi chosen as the private operator, raises significant concerns, given the lawsuits against them and the lack of transparency and public input in the county executive’s decision-making process.

Organizations like 1Hood Media, CCRIP, the Abolitionist Law Center, Community Forge, the Bukit Bail Fund, the Thomas Merton Center and Food Not Bombs Pittsburgh exemplify the kind of community support and engagement that genuinely make a difference, and could do even more if they had a fraction of the funding spent on incarceration.

In sharing my story, I hope to shed light on the realities of the criminal legal system and the urgent need for a system based on restoration, transformation and care. I hope to inspire others to work toward a justice system that is truly just and equitable for all.

(Muhammad Ali Nasir, who goes by his emcee name, MAN-E, is the advocacy, policy and civic engagement coordinator at 1Hood Media and founder of Community Care and Resistance In Pittsburgh.)

‘Black Nativity’—30 years of Black excellence BLACK NATIVITY FROM A1

at age 15, was named the director of this season’s production. It was his directorial debut in a stage production.

“I had the time in with ‘Black Nativity’ which gave me the ability to cultivate my vision while holding onto the original pieces of the show,” Redwood told the New Pittsburgh Courier. “It was a definite plus factor being surrounded by so many other previous performers, making it a true family environment, with everyone committed to an outstanding final product.

I am honored to step into this role, and that Oronde (Sharif) trusts the vision I have tried to bring to this historical production. I have always seen the musical as an experience from the African American perspective of the story of the birth of Christ and how that story still impacts us today. It is a magical and powerful piece and one of the best holiday productions in the city today—it is essentially the only Black holiday production in this city.”

“Black Nativity” has been described in a variety of ways. Karla Payne, a member of the cast for over 24 years, said the

Pittsburgh production is unique. “Shona was very deliberate in infusing our African culture and experience in this story. We are one of the few companies who keep the authentic African aspect of it; we start with a drum call, it is very Afro-centric even when we move into Act 2, we keep that thread of the African culture with fabrics and head wraps, keeping it very grounded in our culture and history as African people.”

The Black Nativity’s original script was written

by Langston Hughes.

Jonathan Berry, who is also a seasoned performer in the production, joining the cast at the behest of a colleague from the Kuntu Theatre 28 years ago, told the Courier: “The ‘Black Nativity’ is ministry; it is an enrichment, enriching both the audience and the actors. As actor it gave me the opportunity to really explore character-building and it freely explored developing those characters.”

Berry described the production as a “Christmas holiday production that deals with the birth of Christ in the first act, and the second act is a modern-day gospel church, Pentecostal, Baptist—including old school and

new school worship songs testimony and words from a pastor,” which is usually played by Berry.

Following the unfortunate death of Shona Sharif in 1999, the event would continue. Her son, Oronde, then a 27-year-old, who had been brought in by the University of Pittsburgh to cover his mother’s classes when she grew ill, and was a student himself, stepped up and took over presenting “Black Nativity” and has carried out her vision ever since.

In an exclusive interview with the Courier, Oronde Sharif said: “I only began dancing with my mother when I was 20 years old, and when we first did the show it only had one act, which is the depiction of the birth of Christ to music and drum. I didn’t understand it all then, but as young dancers, we could not wait to do the show again the next year; we did Acts 1 and 2. There were only about eight women dancers, four or five guy dancers, two regular drummers and some guest drummers and kids from the Kumba workshop...these participants made it all very dynamic. Of course the cast has grown exponentially since then.”

“Black Nativity” is one of

ORONDE SHARIF, RIGHT, IN THIS FILE PHOTO FROM THE “BLACK NATIVITY” IN 2019. PICTURED AT LEFT IS AUBREY LUTTELL.

the few times an audience gets to see the full scope of our culture. Including traditional African Cultural, contemporary Christian non-denominational culture, different types of music and dance that are all “us,” whatever someone ascribes to it can be found on the stage. Oronde Sharif explained that this year, Maurice Redwood as the director referred to the combination as mixing old school and new school to represent every genera-

tion in the city. For every Kirk Franklin or Maverick City Music (worship group), you must have spirituals or hymns from James Cleveland and the like.

The legacy that carries this annual production is also the river that runs through it, which has kept it going over the past 30 years, and has brought performers back to the “Black Nativity” over and over again. Shona Sharif brought it to the forefront,

and her sons, Oronde and Hassan, and the “super cast” and others who support them vow to keep it going.

At this year’s final show, Dec. 23, Oronde and Hassan received proclamations from the City of Pittsburgh, establishing December 23, 2023 as “Shona Sharif African Drum and Dance Ensemble Black Nativity Day” in the City of Pittsburgh.

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A4 DECEMBER 27, 2023 - JANUARY 2, 2024

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

SAVE A LIFE TODAY PITTSBURGH CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION 2023!

PITTSBURGH-AREA PARENTS AND GRANDPARENTS BROUGHT THE KIDS TO PPG PAINTS ARENA ON DEC. 15 FOR SAVE A LIFE TODAY PITTSBURGH’S ANNUAL CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION. COURIER PHOTOGRAPHER RICCO J.L. MARTELLO REPORTS 400 FAMILIES AND 1,400 KIDS ATTENDED THE EVENT. SAVE A LIFE TODAY PITTSBURGH, FOUNDED IN 2004, IS A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION THAT BELIEVES THEY CAN REACH AND HEAL THE PARENTS, THAT WILL IN TURN HEAL THEIR CHILDREN AND SUBSEQUENTLY HEAL THEIR COMMUNITY. THEY ARE DEDICATED TO PROVIDING RESOURCES, POSITIVE ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS TO ALL COMMUNITIES WITHOUT STRIPPING AWAY THE PRIDE AND DIGNITY OF THOSE THEY SERVE REGARDLESS OF RACE, RELIGION, OR NATIONAL ORIGIN.

SALT FOUNDER MARY BARBOUR WILLIAMS, RIGHT, WITH DELVINA MORROW, WITH THE PITTSBURGH PENGUINS (PHOTOS BY J.L. MARTELLO)

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H G R U B S ITT P Y A D TO 3!

E 2 F 0 I L 2 A N IO T A SAVE R B E EL C S A M CHRIST

SAVE A L IFE TODA Y PITTSB CHRIST URGH MAS CE LEBRATI ON 2023 !

Some of you may know me as P.A. Rhodes, a frequent traveler on The Pennsylvania Turnpike!

I’m excited to share there are now two ways tolls are collected: Toll By Plate and E-ZPass.

With Toll By Plate, drivers simply pass through the toll point and the system captures the license plate, then mails the invoice to the vehicle owner’s home.

Scan the QR code for more information.

DECEMBER 27, 2023 - JANUARY 2, 2024

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DECEMBER 27, 2023 - JANUARY 2, 2024

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

From America to Africa: Hip-Hop in the Motherland 50 years later A COURIER SPECIAL REPORT

by Anthony Todd Carlisle and LaMont Jones Jr.

For New Pittsburgh Courier

“The future of Hip-Hop and rap music, whether people like it or not, is Africa—all 54 nations. It ain’t nothing new. People like, ‘Oh, man, they spitting over in Africa now.’ No, they ain’t new, you new.”

- Chuck D of Public Enemy on “Sway in the Morning,” Jan. 26, 2023 STONE TOWN, ZANZIBAR—In a nondescript rowhouse on a narrow side street in this bustling heart of Zanzibar, past rows of shoes and up a darkened staircase, Zenji Boi sits in front of a computer screen in his dim recording studio, dropping beats and advice for a young artist rapping into a microphone. The HipHop rhythms emanating from other rooms in Stone Town Records don’t distract the record label’s founder, a practicing Muslim just back from his Friday noon prayers and still wearing a white robe.

A few minutes away, Rico Single is all b-boy bravado as his Hip-Hop tracks boom, song after song, inside his intimate Island Records studio.

Black baseball cap pulled down over his eyes, blue bandana draped around his neck and sporting a black shirt and jeans, he pays sartorial homage to the American Hip-Hop trailblazers who inspire his artistry.

Zenji Boi and Rico Single reflect Hip-Hop’s diversity, global reach and influence in Africa as the evolving U.S.-born musical genre and its innovative offshoots celebrate 50 years of cultural impact. Since its emergence in 1973 from the home parties and public parks of New York City, Hip-Hop has leapfrogged across continents and grown into a multibillion-dollar global industry.

From Europe to Asia to Africa, its rappers, deejays, emcees, break dancers and graffiti artists find kinship with their American progenitors in their zeal to tell authentic stories of their experiences while creating a sense of community through their creativity.

Something for the Community

Zenji Boi – a writer, rapper, musician, producer and talent-finder given the birth name Ison Mistari – is one of the most influential Hip-Hop figures on this semiautonomous island of Tanzania off the southeastern coast of Africa. His studio, like the cultural movement birthed in Gotham’s ‘hoods, is not just a place to make music. It’s a home away from home for creatives like Brain, the rapper he coaches on this balmy afternoon, and a hub of HipHop creativity that bears witness to Hip-Hop’s enduring impact on rural towns and urban cities worldwide.

At the age of 5, Zenji Boi says, he fell in love with Hip-Hop. Zenji is a slang term for Zanzibar, and the idea of community pushed him to start Stone Town Records in 2018. He sold cocktails and hosted events to raise seed money to open the studio, which is open around the clock.

“We wanted to start a community studio,” says Zenji Boi. “First was a vision to help other musicians, to help local artists, and to make a unique sound. It’s about community.”

Community was also on the mind of Rico Sin-

gle, who was born Rashid Amin Abdalla and started Island Records after a solo career that began in 2006 when his four-member group disbanded. “I saw (that) if I want to do better and want to go far, I must own my studio to make something good for my ideas. I try to help my friends record and to support other artists.”

Zenji Boi, 31, and Rico Single, 38, say they have fresh stories to tell. Not only do they write, rap and record from their personal experiences, they do so within the wider cultural context of a region that’s more than 99 percent Muslim and a native language of Swahili infused by diverse dialects and musical traditions.

Their lyrics and musicality, some observers say, represent new artistic expressions coming out of Africa from a Hip-Hop culture not saddled with the yoke of Western mainstream commercialism.

What some American HipHop scholars, ethnomusicologists, aficionados and artists have witnessed in Africa is reminiscent of Hip-Hop’s infancy, and they say these new stories are possible because the focus on community and authenticity honors Hip-Hop’s origins. That commitment, along with a desire to preserve historical African musical traditions, could be the genre’s lifeline as a new generation of rappers emerges on the continent and worldwide.

“There’s something different about African HipHop artists,” says Fete Jen, an international arts culture connector, producer and founder of The Lounge, a platform in Tanzania that showcases creatives, specifically Hip-Hop artists. Inspired by the Lyricist Lounge in New York City, Fete Jen established The Lounge in 2014, working with local club owners to provide a venue for up-and-coming Hip-Hop artists to hone their skills on a stage in front of an audience.

Witnessing the talent firsthand, Fete Jen, who hails from Queens, New York, says there’s a hope in African Hip-Hop. “The mind, the way they think on the continent, is so different – more enterprising,” Fete Jen says. “A lot of it is conscious rap.

They talk about the culture and preserving the culture and celebrating themselves through music. I see it evolving and being deeper despite some of the trap music and other stuff, but there are enough (emcees) who are keeping it real.”

Authenticity is the only legitimate space within Hip-Hop, Zenji Boi contends, because Hip-Hop is about “real things around you – the real lifestyle you survive and live.”

Rico Single, whose earliest rap influences include DMX, Sean “Diddy” Combs and Tupac Shakur, says authenticity guides his music-making. “I feel good because Hip-Hop music is real music. They do everything. They make a revolution in the country, in the people. When you make Hip-Hop music, you don’t make fake music. Hip-Hop is the real thing. Hip-Hop is life.”

This same sense of community motivates both men to persevere in the Hip-Hop game, despite the chronically tough economic and technological challenges of operating in a rural region of a country less than one-fifth the population of the U.S. and with a GDP of less than one-fourth of 1 percent of

BRAIN, AN ARTIST WITH STONE TOWN RECORDS; ZENJI BOI, OWNER OF STONE TOWN RECORDS; A STONE TOWN RECORDS CUSTOMER. (PHOTO BY LAMONT JONES JR.)

the U.S. They’re optimistic about the possibilities and prepared themselves for the creative and business sides of Hip-Hop music.

Rico Single, who earned a certificate in music production at the Tasuba College of Art in Bagamoyo, Tanzania, established Island Records in 2013. He regularly raps at cultural and social events and has performed at the African Music Festival. Accolades are prominent on the wall of his recording studio, such as an award from the U.S. Embassy in 2015 for “Song for Peace” and a Zanzibar Music Award for “Best Male Musician of the Year.”

Zenji Boi, who plays violin and the oud, a Middle Eastern guitar-type instrument, says part of his vision is to help artists create a unique sound. When he’s not helping rappers lay down vocal tracks, he’s developing singers, musicians, emcees and deejays, including a few women. He urges them all to get some formal music education at Countries Music Academy in Stone Town, where he attended and learned theory about African, Arabic and Western musical traditions.

“This is not the ending,” he tells vocal artists when they record. “This is the beginning.”

Along with independent producers like Rico Single and Zenji Boi, African HipHop is largely financed by nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations.

NGOs have been the main source of funding for HipHop communities in many countries outside the U.S., especially Africa, says HipHop scholar Seth Markle, an associate professor of history and international studies and director of international studies at Trinity College in Connecticut.

Even graffiti artists, which Markle describes as one of the five elements of Hip-Hop, get support from NGOs in Tanzania, he notes.

says includes rap/emceeing, knowledge-sharing, deejaying/producing, graffiti and break dancing.

Many Hip-Hop communities around the world have all five. Markle says Hip-Hop’s impact is indisputable when one considers that graffiti has been embraced in many countries as “a legitimate art form” and break dancing is poised to become a competitive category in the Olympics.

“You’re seeing a lot of advancement with the culture,” Markle says.

African Hip-Hop scholar Msia Kibona Clark, an associate professor of African cultural and feminist studies at Howard University, says all elements of Hip-Hop are embraced in Africa similarly to the U.S. “The breakdancing scene in Uganda is huge,” says Clark, who was born in Tanzania, moved to the U.S. when she was 5 and grew up in Ohio. “You bring a bunch of break dancers from Uganda with break dancers from New York, you don’t need any translators. They have their own language. They share a flow and vibe and energy that comes off in the break dancing, graffiti, emceeing and deejaying. It does not need translation.”

Clark first witnessed

the immersion of Hip-Hop culture in Africa as a college student in the 1990s, when she studied abroad in Tanzania. The Hip-Hop that she and classmates listened to attracted young Tanzanians, who hung out and enjoyed the music with them in their dorms and houses.

“I was surprised by the connection of Hip-Hop in Tanzania the first time there around ’96-’97,” Clark says. “This was after Tupac died. Everybody wanted to talk about Tupac. The biggest question was, ‘Is he still alive?’

‘We think he’s still alive.’

We would have conversations and … the vibe was nice because we were able to connect through the bond of Hip-Hop.” When Fete Jen studied abroad in Zimbabwe in the fall of 1993, she was shocked to hear American Hip-Hop music playing in clubs and to hear Zimbabwean rappers.

“It was amazing to hear our music in their clubs and on their radio,” Fete Jen says. “That really hit home that our music is really global, especially HipHop.” “Hip-Hop was all over the radio stations” in South Africa, Fete Jen later discovered in the late ‘90s.

“South Africa had a very

vibrant Hip-Hop community and graffiti scene. It was great to be there because they embraced the culture.”

That affinity remains, Clark says, noting that South Africa’s diverse Hip-Hop scene – including its hub in Cape Town – embraces artists ranging from queer to gangster rappers. Senegal and Ghana also have huge HipHop scenes, she says, with Senegal and Nigeria hosting Hip-Hop festivals that have attracted aficionados from around the world.

“I think one of the reasons the youth embraced Hip-Hop so quickly is because they saw themselves in it,” Clark says. “They connected to the songs’ messages. The same issues in the South Bronx – overcrowded, poverty-stricken, police brutality – all those things, the education system … kind of struck a chord with people.”

Africans who have been in the music game understand the connectiveness of people of color much more than the younger generation of rappers, Clark observes.

“The younger ones are not really politically aware of the political significance, but the older ones – they unSEE HIP-HOP A7

Hip-Hop Elements Embraced Globally

From the U.S. and Africa to Asia and Latin America, there are diverse communities within the large global Hip-Hop community, Markle notes, “and that’s what makes it so enriching.”

Rap is everywhere, and it’s often conflated with Hip-Hop when it’s actually just one component of Hip-Hop in a five-part framework that Markle

ZENJI BOI, OWNER OF STONE TOWN RECORDS. (PHOTO BY LAMONT JONES JR.)

RELIGION/METRO

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HIP-HOP FROM A6

derstand racism. Hip-Hop is a culture that brings people of African descent together, speaking in that same language.”

Pa n - A f r i c a n i s m and the Diaspora

Hip-Hop illustrates how the U.S. and Africa have influenced each other and the rest of the African diaspora, some say.

“The political message of pan-African liberation is common ground and a source of identification,” Markle says. He cites Mbuya, the founder of Hip-Hop graffiti in Tanzania, who consumed a lot of political Hip-Hop from the U.S. and learned of the Black liberation struggle

a vehicle for messaging ideas around racial solidarity. Africans and Black Americans “hold special places in each other’s imaginations,” he says.

Patrick Rivers, an ethnomusicologist and associate professor in the music department at the University of New Haven in Connecticut, says HipHop universally “speaks to the oppressed, the postcolonial societies around the world. Hip-Hop speaks to more than sounds. It’s a connection.”

But for Eric Charry, another ethnomusicologist and professor of music at Wesleyan University, the pan-African connection appears to be more “on a nation-to-nation level.”

Like many Hip-Hop schol-

Hop artists “have a broader vision,” like Awadi from Senegal, and gaining a wider audience and appeal typically means that they must learn to rap in English or another common non-native language such as Spanish.

“That’s the paradox,” Charry says.

When Fete Jen considers African Hip-Hop artists in the context of the African diaspora, she thinks about U.S. Hip-Hop artists. She wonders if African American Hip-Hop artists know the impact their music has in Africa, and if they did, would they help African Hip-Hop artists transcend to a bigger stage. “I hope they can understand and realize the power they have on the continent. Do they realize who is listening to their music over here? Do they know how influential they are to the youth?”

Power, Money and Respect

RICO SINGLE IS THE FOUNDER AND CEO OF ISLAND RECORDS, IN ZANZIBAR. (PHOTO BY LAMONT JONES JR.) in the U.S. from Hip-Hop artists such as KRS-One and Wu Tang Clan. Mbuya self-identified as a pan-Africanist above a Hip-Hop artist.

African people are “looking for ways to communicate in the diaspora,” Markle says. That has meant African Hip-Hop artists incorporating more English in their rap, he says, adding that the genre is

ars, he says Hip-Hop is authentic only as it emerges from the realities and experiences of a performer, and that can’t be divorced from their geography and specific culture.

For example, Senegalese rappers have a Senegalese audience and address issues in that country, which is also the norm in Tanzania, Jamaica, France and everywhere else, Charry says. However, some Hip-

Tupac, Jay-Z and 50 Cent were among rappers who inspired Zenji Boi, but it was Nas who spoke to him deeply. He says Nas’ vibe, style, flow and lifestyle attracted him to the Crown Heights rapper. For Rico Single, who banged to Tupac, Biggie and Jay-Z, it was Yonkers rapper DMX who most inspired his pursuit of rap.

Both Zenji Boi and Rico Single dream of cracking the U.S. market and collaborating with some of its Hip-Hop legends.

However, for African HipHop artists, the road to that destination is a difficult one, many experts say. One reason is the emergence of Afrobeats, a fusion of Hip-Hop and reggae, which Clark says has hindered African Hip-Hop artists trying to break into the American Hip-Hop scene. Afrobeats originated in West African cultures and, she notes, is sometimes confused with African Hip-Hop. Yet, a few African HipHop artists have seen some success in the American market. Clark

points to Ghanaian rapper Sarkodi, and Sampa The Great, a Zambian rapper who performed at the music festival Coachella this year and has collaborated with artists such as Joey Bada$$. But generally, she observes, being a non-American artist makes it difficult to breaking into the U.S. market no matter the music genre, and African artists who are international tend to have gone the way of Europe and Asia.

As a non-American, a major barrier for African rappers is the language, Clark says. “What language is an artist going to rap in? Artists attempt to switch (languages) and when they do, there’s a noticeable drop in skills. So those types of questions are coming up.”

Somewhat ironically, the lyrical internal structure of the Ki Swahili language used in raps by Tanzanian artists “lends itself naturally and easily to rhyming,” says Markle. “It’s the perfect language for rap.”

As a result of the barriers to the U.S. market, there are a lot of working-class rappers in Africa, Fete Jen says. They work their 9-to-5 jobs while doing what they can to get their music played on the radio.

That struggle, she says, sparks innovation.

“A lot of these independent artists are doing it on their own, and they are making it somehow,” she says. “’I think because they are diversifying themselves. They are being more entrepreneurial and enterprising and figuring out a way to make it independently here.”

More investment in African Hip-Hop and its artists is needed, says Rico Single, whose recent to-do list included raising the last half of $3,000 needed to make a new music video. Beyond his videos and festival performances, he promotes his music through play on local radio stations, social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, and sales on digital platforms such as Spotify, Amazon, Boom

DECEMBER 27, 2023 - JANUARY 2, 2024

Play and Apple Music.

There are no such digital outlets in Zanzibar.

Rico Single also wants to enhance his equipment and software processes to take his music production to the next level. Financial and other investments are needed, he adds, “to save the talent from the street.”

Zenji Boi’s music is also available across multiple digital platforms, including iTunes and Apple Music. He sees a bond between Zanzibarian and U.S. Hip-Hop and has done three collaborations with American rappers.

One is a woman, Akua Naru, whom he met when she visited Zanzibar to perform. Another is a New York rapper, (Hosanna) Reallionaire Jream. The third came to Zanzibar to find his roots in hopes of fusing African and American music.

Taking a brief break from his studio session with Brain, Zenji Boi says he’s among Hip-Hop artists who want to change the music and the lessthan-wholesome mentality in some Hip-Hop, especially some of what comes from the U.S. “It’s about the cultural environment, but not the same topics over and over,” he says. “It’s not just gangs. … There are more stories we can talk about in Hip-Hop.” Across town, Rico Single spits some lyrics into a sound booth mike, bobbing his head as if in agreement.

(Editor’s note: Anthony Todd Carlisle, Ph.D., is an associate professor in the Department of English, Philosophy and Modern Languages at Pennsylvania Western University, author of “The Souls of Clayhatchee: A Southern Tale” and a former city hall reporter for the New Pittsburgh Courier. LaMont Jones, Ed.D., is managing editor for education at U.S. News & World Report, has written articles for the Courier about color bias in Cuba and New York Fashion Week, and is the author of two books.)

Catapult Greater Pittsburgh presents ‘Brunching With Santa’

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Praise & Worship ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CATHOLIC CHURCH 91 Crawford Street Pgh., PA 15219 412-281-3141 Sunday Mass 11 AM

Rev. C. Matthew HawkinsAdministrator www.sbtmparishpgh.com

East Liberty Presbyterian Church Rev. Patrice Fowler-Searcy and Rev. Heather Schoenewolf Pastors 412-441-3800

Worship in person or Online on Facebook/YouTube www.ELPC.church Summer Worship Sundays............10:00 a.m.

Taize -Wednesdays.........7:00 p.m.

Join our growing Praise and Worship Church Community!

For rate information, call 412-4818302, ext. 128. We want to feature positive youth from our Pittsburgh church community. Please mail their bio and photo to: New Pittsburgh Courier 315 E. Carson St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219 or email us: religion@newpittsburghcourier.com

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Catapult Greater Pittsburgh hosted its first “Brunching With Santa” event on Dec. 2 at East End Cooperative Ministry, in East Liberty.

Lachelle Bell, the organization’s director of entrepreneurship, brought together families and Black-owned businesses, along with Santa and Mrs. Claus, of course...

The vendors included Mele’s Gifts and Party Planning, Work Play Zen, Naptural Beauty Supply, Yayaz Lounge, LLC, Natures Crown, A&D Royal Ink, LLC, Northern Scents

Candle Co., D&E Novelty, and Boss Girl Collection. Food at the event was catered by Catapult Culinary Graduate Bouji Bites, drinks were provided by Mobile Bartending and and Drink servicer JaMeMe. Santa and Mrs. Claus appeared courtesy of The Black Tea Brown Suga Network.

Catapult Greater Pittsburgh engages in emergency resource distribution, peer-to-peer support, wealth building, trauma-informed financial counseling, and policy advocacy to

ensure systematically disenfranchised communities can meaningfully achieve economic justice and lead dignified and equitable lives.

Tammy Thompson is the executive director.

- Rob Taylor Jr.

NEW YEAR 2024 “Let ALL those that SEEK THEE rejoice and be glad in THEE: let such as love Thy SALVATION say continually, The LORD BE MAGNIFIED.” - Psalm 40:16 REV. WALKER SAYS: Let us be so hunger and thirsty in SEEKING the LORD in 2024. Hebrews 11:6: But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for He is, and He is REWARDED OF THEM THAT DILIGENTLY SEEK HIM.

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SPORTS

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MOVE, BENGALS, GET OUT THE WAY!

AS THE STEELERS’ CALVIN AUSTIN III RUNS FOR A TOUCHDOWN, A BENGALS PLAYER, GERMAINE PRATT, IS KNOCKED OUT OF THE PLAY BY THE STEELERS’ JAYLEN WARREN. PITTSBURGH WON OVER CINCINNATI, 34-11, DEC. 23. (PHOTOS BY MARLON MARTIN)

Tomlin’s decision to play George Pickens pays off There was a line in the movie, “Django Unchained.”

The plantation owner said this to Django, after being captured during an attempted escape. “Django... You got sand, Django. Boy’s got sand! I got no use for [people] with sand.”

In other words, asking the question: What gives you the nerve to challenge my full authority? I do not need a servant with “grit” who would ever dare to challenge me.

The Steelers had lost three games to three teams that were not locked and loaded but were more like unloaded and unlocked. But then on Saturday, Dec. 23, the Steelers went on to declaw the Bengals by the score of 34-11. During that losing streak, the “yinzer” press spin doctors also demanded that Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin be traded, fired, sold, or all the above.

Now during the last two games, all of the talking head “Spinners,” (and no, they were not “falling in love” with Mike Tomlin) were all foaming at the mouth as to why Tomlin did not bench the Steelers’ young star wide receiver George Pickens because Pickens was impatient and his so-called “yada, yada, yada based rhetoric”

was causing a crater-like divide in the Steelers locker room.

It turns out that Pickens was 1000 percent right and the “yinzer” brigade was 2000 percent wrong.

If Pickens had been a major part of the Steelers offense from the beginning

ABOVE: STEELERS RECEIVER GEORGE PICKENS RACES FOR ONE OF HIS TWO TOUCHDOWNS IN THE BIG WIN OVER CINCINNATI, DEC. 23.

of the season, it is a stonecold fact that the Steelers would not have lost to the Arizona Cardinals and the New England Patriots and may have even defeated the playoff-contending Indy Colts.

Had Steelers owner Art Rooney II or Head Coach Mike Tomlin listened to many of the non-football playing, buffalo wing-eating, airwave-polluting squawkers and benched George Pickens because he dared to speak up against a Steelers offensive philosophy that was on life-support...?

“Pickens... You got sand, Pickens. Boy’s got sand!

‘Yinzers’ got no use for players with sand.” They even tried to put the value of the often-injured, skittish and scared “current starting” QB of the Steelers Kenny Pickett above George Pickens.

Remember the Steelers’ former NFL All-Pro wide receiver Antonio Brown?

When he spoke up and de-

fended himself, he ended up like a catfish stranded on the bank of the Allegheny River.

Remember the legendary NFL Hall-of-Fame running back Jim Brown?

Brown retired at the peak of his NFL career. Why? Well, because Jim Brown not only had sand, Jim Brown was an entire beach.

Let us not forget the recently departed Steelers running back LeVeon Bell. Bell departed the Steelers in 2018. Both players were accused of putting sand in the shoes of former Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger. Roethlisberger purchased a brand new 18-wheeler and a private road so that he could run over both players as if they were speed bumps at 2 a.m. without being detected. Ben Roethlisberger had sand as well when it came to satisfying his needs.

Through all the questionable behavior exhibit-

ed by Ben Roethlisberger that caused harm to his head coach and his team, folks advocated less of a penalty for Roethlisberger for his alleged violations.

However, George Pickens was advocating for more of an inclusive role to help his team win, but the talking heads continued to advocate that Pickens be benched to “send a message.” Had Mike Tomlin listened to the “bullies on the beach” that were kicking sand in the face of George Pickens and Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin, the Steelers would have lost the matchup with the Bengals unceremoniously, prematurely dashing their faint hope of a playoff run.

George Pickens was not complaining about being overworked and underpaid, Pickens was pleading for more work. Many of the “squawk-boxers” are ranting and raving about George Pickens not blocking and being non-

chalant on a recent goalline running play featuring Steelers running back Jaylen Warren. The only blocking that I see some of the NFL scribes doing on game day is running interference on their way to the well-stocked press buffet.

The unchecked behavior and narcissism of Ben Roethlisberger dissected the morale and team spirit of the Steelers for many, many years without any repercussions. The Steelers cannot allow an unproven commodity like Kenny Pickett to repeat the behavior of arrogance without substance, especially when so far, he has displayed a questionable skill set that may not match the over-inflated expectations of a spoiled fan base.

ABOVE: STEELERS QUARTERBACK MASON RUDOLPH SHINES IN THE BIG WIN. AT LEFT: ALIQUIPPA HIGH SCHOOL HEAD COACH MIKE WARFIELD RECEIVES AN AWARD FROM THE STEELERS. ALIQUIPPA WON THE FOOTBALL STATE TITLE THIS YEAR (2023).

Historical arguments don’t justify the leap to violence J. Pharoah Doss Page B4

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Will interest rates go down in 2024?

by Jacqueline Fuller For New Pittsburgh Courier

House hunters are wondering about one thing: interest rates.

Many prospective homebuyers are questioning: “Will interest rates go down in 2024?”

Mortgage rates are still high and housing inventory is limited. The situation has caused some people to hit the pause button with their search. If you are concerned right now that you may not be able to buy a home due to the current state of the economy, things could change soon.

The Mortgage Bankers Association’s November 2023 Mortgage Finance Forecast predicts 30-year rates starting in 2024 at 7.1 percent and declining to 6.1 percent toward the end of the year.

BLACK WEALTH IS RISING, but it is still way behind other ethnic groups. Barriers to creating wealth help the racial wealth gap persist.

Credit: August de Richelieu / Pexels

Smoke and mirrors: Rise in Black net worth is not what it seems

by Bria Overs Word In Black

According to Fannie Mae’s Housing Forecast for November, the average 30-year fixed rate during the first quarter of 2024 will be at 7.6 percent.

“The economy is now slowing from the otherwise robust first estimate of third-quarter growth,” said Douglas Duncan, Fannie Mae Senior Vice President and Chief Economist, in a statement on Nov. 1. “While many current owners with low mortgage rates will likely continue to be discouraged from listing their homes, we expect mortgage rates to trend modestly downward in 2024, which should help kickstart a gradual recovery in home sales into 2025.”

The National Association of Realtors also predicted that the 30-year mortgage rate will go under 7 percent in the second half of next year.

In the meantime, here are some items for your to-do list to improve your chances of achieving the goal of homeownership in 2024.

• Increase your credit score.

• Check your credit reports for accuracy and fix errors.

• Maintain a financially healthy debt-to-income ratio by reducing debt.

• Apply for first-time homebuyer programs to receive down payment assistance.

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Black net worths are on the rise—for now. A recent report from the Federal Reserve found that in the last three years, between 2019 and 2022, Black wealth rose by 61 percent. It’s the largest growth of any other racial group.

Despite this increase, it does not reflect the broader reality of the persisting racial wealth gap.

“That 61 percent increase seems so large because the actual wealth that Black families had in 2019 was so small compared to white households,” Michelle Holder, associate professor of economics at John Jay College in the City University of New York (CUNY), says.

“When you’re starting with a smaller base, increases can get magnified.”

Median Black wealth was around $28,000 in 2019 and moved closer to $45,000 in 2022. At the same time, White wealth increased by 31 percent, growing from $218,000 to $285,000.

Holder says this comparison should not take away from the progress, but looking at the percentage alone can be “a little misleading.”

“I’d say the numbers are a kind of mask,” she tells Word in Black. “The Black community didn’t really experience true wealth building that the numbers might suggest it did. I think what they experienced was a rise in the value of an asset that almost half of Black families have compared to about 75 percent of White families.”

What’s Driving Black Net Worth Growth One of the most significant contributors to wealth growth for Black households was increases in homeownership and housing equity or the home’s value. In the second quarter of 2020, Black homeownership hit 47 percent, a rate the community has not reached since the 2008 housing market crash. By

the end of 2022, it dipped slightly to around 45 percent, similar to what it was in 2011.

The rate is far below that of other groups but still higher than in the last 10 years.

A subfactor was home values, which, for Black homeowners specifically, increased by 60 percent for a net value of $123,000. But Black families were not alone in this. The Federal Reserve found that “amid rising house prices, home equity for homeowners moved up sharply for families of all races and ethnicities.”

Business ownership was also a wealth-building tool. 11 percent of Black people are now business owners, and an estimated 3 million Blackowned businesses are in the United States. A report from the Urban Institute on what pushes Black women into entrepreneurship points to discrimina-

One of the most significant contributors to wealth growth for Black households was increases in homeownership and housing equity or the home’s value. tion in the workplace, including racism and sexism.

The increase in business ownership is impressive, but their value has significantly declined across racial groups.

“We saw a rise in businesses, but they were not of the variety that generated large amounts of employees, revenue, and wealth overall,” Andre M. Perry, senior fellow at Brookings Metro, says.

“It remains to be seen if those businesses will ultimately scale, increase their size, and increase their number of employees so their overall value will increase as well.”

Perry adds that in the future, there may be a decline in the number of businesses if owners cannot grow and sustain themselves. As a result, business values will also decline.

Moving the Needle on the Racial Wealth Gap There are differences of opinion on exactly how many years it will take to close the racial wealth gap, but all agree it will take several centuries to do so. With the goalpost moving every year, it will take significant changes to move closer to closure.

“Wealth begets wealth,” Perry says.

“The more you have, the more you accrue.”

Investments in the stock market largely grew White wealth in the last three years. Fortunately, Black stock ownership rose over the previous 15 years, but not at the same levels as other groups with higher stock values.

With most Black wealth residing in homeownership, Holder and Perry believe a more diversified investment portfolio would be more impactful for the Black community. But it can’t stop there. Black people need more growth in their wages and salaries, an area they saw the least movement in because they were unchanged, according to the Federal Reserve.

“The sad thing is that even with gains like this, the racial wealth gap in this country pretty much remains the same by all of the different metrics,” Holder says. “I think that’s really unfortunate.”

If you’re broke after Christmas, you’ll probably be broke after retirement A good friend of mine suggested that I write an article based on the premise of how to get back on track financially after the holidays. I responded by saying, “Wow! That’s a good idea. I never thought of that.” Dumbfounded by my response my friend said, “all of the financial writers are writing about Christmas blues and holiday hangovers.

I can’t believe you never thought about writing on this subject.”

As I began to reflect on ideas to write about regarding how to help people bounce back financially after spending themselves BROKE during the holidays, I thought to myself, “I help people get back on track and get ahead financially EVERY DAY. Why would my advice be any different because it’s a HOLIDAY?” I began to ask questions: How can millions upon millions of people go broke each and every year after the holidays?

We all know that Christmas falls on the 25th of December every year, yet, millions of people act as if Christmas snuck up behind them, tapped them on the shoulder, and yelled—SURPRISE, I’m here! Do people think that time would stand still until they decided to be proactive and make provisions for the Christmas season? Do people convince

themselves that some figment of their imagination called Santa Claus, lottery, casino, Publishers Clearing House winnings, knight in shining armor, or some happenchance windfall of money — better known as false hope — would show up and compensate them for their lack of planning and preparation for the holidays? It’s my opinion that being broke after Christmas is a microcosm of things yet to come. It’s small potatoes when you consider the overwhelming expenses that lie ahead — unexpected events, unexpected expenses, emergencies, tragedies, maintaining a home, college expenses, health care and retirement expenses. I’m going to be blunt! If you are broke after Christmas, you’re probably going to be broke after retirement.

I said what I said!!

According to a survey conducted by International Communications Research of Media PA, the typical family spends anywhere from $810–$1,105 during

Christmas. The survey revealed that most of the items purchased during Christmas were purchased with credit cards. Lastly, the survey revealed that only 45 percent of those using credit cards paid the balances off over the next six months.

The remaining 55 percent of those using credit cards were still making payments after six months.

Surely, $810–$1,105 is a lot of money. However, is the amount so great that you cannot save and pay cash? Is the amount so great that even if you used credit cards during the holiday, you have a low probability of paying the balance off in full within 6 months? Is the amount so great that you’re singing Christmas Blues or that you’re having a holiday hangover?

If you answered yes to any of the aforementioned questions—I hate to be the bearer of bad news considering the time of the season. I feel that somebody has to tell you before it’s too late. For if you don’t get a handle on your finances today, you might as well get accustomed to singing the blues and you might as

well get accustomed to financial hangovers because $810–$1,105 is small in comparison to the cost of an unexpected event or an unexpected expense. Money Magazine reports that 78 percent of all families will experience a major financial crisis with a price tag of approximately $10,000 within a 10-year period.

This is why I recommend a fully funded emergency fund worth three to six months worth of living expenses. $810–$1,105 is small in comparison to how much it’s going to cost you to put your children through college. You know the high cost of college and the pain associated with repaying student loans. This is why I recommend that you establish a college fund for your child. $810–$1,105 is small in comparison to how much it costs to purchase and maintain a home. This is why I recommend that you get your financial house in order first then seek homeownership. $810–$1,105 is small in comparison to the amount you’re going to need to maintain your lifestyle during retirement.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 96 perSEE DAMON CARR B2

BUSINESS

B2 DECEMBER 27, 2023 - JANUARY 2, 2024

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Rising interest rates and prices keep homeownership as a distant goal, especially for African Americans

by Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

In the wake of escalating mortgage rates and soaring housing prices, the dream of homeownership in the United States is slipping further from the grasp of many Americans, particularly African Americans. Recent reports from financial and real estate authorities reveal that prospective homebuyers, burdened by the growing costs of homes and borrowing at higher interest rates, face an increasingly challenging landscape.

Meanwhile, disparities in homeownership persist, disproportionately affecting minority communities, and access to mortgages remains an uphill battle.

According to Bankrate. com, the current average 30-year fixed mortgage interest rate stands at a staggering 8.01 percent, marking a 12-basis-point increase over the past week. Mortgage refinance rates are also rising, with the average 30-year fixed refinance interest rate reaching 8.09 percent, up by 4 basis points in the same period. The rising interest rates compound the difficulties those in search of a home loan face.

The surging home prices and escalating mortgage rates put immense financial strain on buyers, especially African Americans.

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) reported that, even as millions aim to purchase homes, the reality is starkly different from just a few

years ago. In December 2020, 30-year fixed mortgage rates hit an all-time low of 2.68 percent, down significantly from 3.78 percent a year earlier. In tandem with the lower rates, housing prices skyrocketed. The median sale price of a single-family home has now risen above $416,000 in the second quarter of 2023, up from less than $360,000 in late 2020. U.S. home price indexes have reached historic highs, surpassing the reach of many median-income households.

Lawrence Yun, the chief economist for the National Association of Realtors, noted that in late 2020, the monthly mortgage payment on a typical newly sold home was approximately $1,100 in principal

and interest. Today, it has more than doubled, further exacerbating buyers’ challenges.

The NAR’s calculations indicate that a buyer now needs to earn $107,232 annually to afford a median-priced home, based on recent rates and a 20 percent down payment, allocating 25 percent of their gross monthly income to housing expenses. This figure surpasses the real median household income of $74,580 in 2022, as the U.S. Census Bureau reported. Yun emphasizes that those who don’t earn six figures will face significant hurdles in affording a home in many markets.

The NAR’s monthly housing affordability index, which reflects the ability of a median-income

individual to purchase a home above the median price, has plummeted from nearly 170 before the COVID-19 pandemic to a preliminary total of 91.7 in August, the lowest reading since October 1985.

These challenges in homeownership are hitting minority communities hard, with African Americans at the forefront of the struggle. The homeownership gap between Black Americans and other racial groups is widening, particularly compared to white households. While the overall homeownership rate in the U.S. has increased over the last decade, the Black homeownership rate has grown less than 1 percentage point, reach-

ing 44 percent in 2021.

This falls significantly behind Hispanic Americans at 50.6 percent, Asian Americans at 62.8 percent, and White Americans at 72.7 percent.

NAR’s deputy chief economist and vice president of research, Jessica Lautz, underscores the disproportionate impact on Black buyers. Black homeowners allocate a more significant portion of their income to housing expenses, with 30 percent being cost-burdened. This is followed by Hispanic Americans at 28 percent, Asian Americans at 26 percent, and White Americans at 21 percent.

Over half of Black renters spend over 30 percent of their income on rent, with nearly 30 percent classi-

fied as severely cost-burdened, spending over 50 percent of their income on rent. In contrast, 22 percent of White renters are severely cost-burdened.

These affordability challenges extend beyond the cost of homeownership.

Black and Hispanic homebuyers also face higher denial rates for mortgage loans. According to Home Mortgage Disclosure Act data, 20 percent of Black and 15 percent of Hispanic loan applicants were denied mortgages, compared to 11 percent of White and 10 percent of Asian applicants. Black Americans were denied applications for nearly 17 percent of home purchase loans, 17 percent of refinancing loans, and a staggering 51 percent of home improvement loans.

“The data paints a stark picture of the American housing market, where the dream of homeownership has become increasingly unattainable, particularly for African Americans,” said Nathaniel Ogilvie, a District of Columbia real estate broker. “We already have so many disparities that keep African Americans from affording homes, so addressing the housing affordability crisis and ensuring equitable access to mortgages is still a pressing issue that must be addressed nationally and must be addressed with Black Americans in mind.”

(Stacy M. Brown is NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent)

Buying stocks and building sisterhood

by Bria Overs Word In Black

Black Women Invest taps into surging interest in investing among Black women by providing educational resources and an empowering community. Not enough Black people use investment vehicles to grow wealth. The rate of investors over the last 25 years mirrors that of a stock market ticker. Some years, it’s up, others it’s down.

The number of Black people investing today is as low as it was in 1998, which was 57 percent, according to the Ariel Schwab 2022 Black Investor Survey, which looked at 1,035 Black investors. In 2020, it hit a low of 55 percent, and in 2022, it barely increased to 58 percent.

While it’s a slight positive change, Schelo Doirin, founder of Black Women Invest, expects this number to grow even more in the coming years. She says it’s because of an “awakening” among Black women.

Doirin, 30, sees a way to accelerate the number of Black investors—create a safe space and community for Black women to learn how to invest, grow wealth, and build their ideal futures.

“The momentum is already there,” she says. “This is our time as Black women to transform the narrative. Black Women Invest is just here at the right place,

SCHELO DOIRIN AND AN ATTENDEE of the Black Women Invest “Vision of Wealth Brunch” Credit: Black Women Invest at the right time, and it’s the right platform.”

With 14,000 members nationwide, Black Women Invest offers educational tools and resources on stocks, index and mutual funds, real estate investing, and more through a six-week accelerator program. But the foundation of the business is its online and in-person community.

There are chapters in Columbus, Geor-

Will interest rates go down in 2024?

INTEREST RATES FROM B1

• Save at least 20 percent toward the down payment to avoid private mortgage insurance on conventional home loans.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau recommends homebuyers to shop around and get quotes from mortgage lenders to compare rates, decide

on the type of loan, and have a preferred lender to negotiate a lower rate.

Do not let the current state of interest rates be a hindrance to buying a home.

Forecasters are estimating that mortgages will peak near 7 percent or 8 percent and then go down to 5 percent or 6 percent by the end of 2024.

If you’re broke after Christmas DAMON CARR FROM B1

cent of those 65 and older retire or die BROKE. Who knows what’s going to happen to social security? Most large companies no longer offer pension plans.

Many companies are either reducing or pausing matching 401(k) contributions.

More than 40 percent of Americans who are eligible to contribute to a retirement plan at work DON’T do so. Assuming that you do receive both pension and social security, in most cases the two together will only replace between 2060 percent of your current income. This is why I recommend that you save for retirement.

The reason millions of people struggle after Christmas is the same reason mil-

lions of people are living hand-to-mouth, paycheck-to-paycheck, robbing Peter and Paul to pay Patrick; overspending, undersaving, poor money management and no financial game plan.

Have I not provided solutions in various columns? If you need me to personally to help you put together a plan, I’m ready to serve. The beginning of a new year is a perfect time to start!

(Damon Carr, Money Coach can be reached at 412-216-1013 or visit his website at www.damonmoneycoach.com)

gia; Charlotte, North Carolina; Houston; Louisville; Southern California; and its most recent addition, Washington, D.C. “There’s nothing new about the importance of community in regards to investing,” Doirin says. “I think people need validation that this will work for them.

Because if you don’t have anyone around you who’s done it, then it feels like a foreign concept, and it’s not really possible for you. It helps you believe in yourself.”

Know Better, Do Better It was 2014 when Doirin started her “investment journey,” as she calls it. She might be well-versed in investing now, with a background in finance and years of experience working in real estate investing, but that was not always the case.

In the beginning, investing was this mysterious and uncharted thing. Doirin tried reading books about it, but that didn’t give her the knowledge to make smart financial decisions. Conferences didn’t do much good either. It wasn’t until she started working in real estate investing that the concepts made sense.

She would host courses and events at her job, but looking around the room, she barely saw any Black women. Doirin wanted to talk about money and her investment desires without feeling ashamed.

“We were extremely underrepresented, and it became very clear to me this was the case across the country,” she says. “I wanted to find other women interested in investing and people I could become friends with.”

Black Women Invest started as a small community for friends. In January 2020, she had around 300 members. By May 2020—5,000.

The COVID-19 pandemic shook the world. People lost jobs, income, and overall security. Black women wanted to learn to do things differently so they’d be ready if something like this ever happened again.

“That’s when it really became a business,” Doirin tells Word In Black. “I started to provide services because I realized the questions these ladies were asking, I was equipped to answer.”

Community and Investing Go Together There are a lot of things that need to be clarified about investing. Some believe they need a lot of money or are too old to jump in. A windfall rarely happens to people, and waiting could lead to losing money. And with the right kind of strategy, investment accounts can grow in a short amount of time.

“One thing I’ve learned over time is that people don’t want to go to boring investment conferences, and they don’t want to be oversold,” she says. “I’ve had women tell me that the classes they’ve taken and events they’ve attended [with Black Women Invest] are the best investments they’ve ever made in their lives.”

The organization is deeming 2024 the “Year of Abundance” and hosting its first annual conference on April 12-14, 2024, in Temecula, California. Doirin says her company stands out from the crowded world of courses and boring investment conferences because she doesn’t teach fluff. Participating in the Black Women Invest community costs $25 monthly for a membership and $497 for the six-week program.

SCHELO DOIRIN, founder of Black Women Invest Credit: Black Women Invest “How do I keep the momentum going?” she says. “It’s through consistently listening to the community, their needs, and figuring out the best way to serve them.”

OPINION

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Guest Editorial

Gender wars Random social media comments critical of women, coming from men: “Many females of this generation have ‘no order’ so they cannot relate to how a woman is supposed to conduct herself;” “I’m all for protecting Black women that deserve my protection; most Black women don’t deserve my protection;” “That’s a worldwide lie that they (Black women) are not protected. We (Black men) need protection from they a$$…they call the police knowing it’s a chance sh*t can go left;” “Women are the ones who are filing for divorce close to 80 percent of the time, not men, thus breaking up the family structure;” “Women have contributed nothing to the world, nothing!”

Criticisms and challenges in public articles regarding Black men: “Black men most likely to leave women of their own race:” (PBS: American Love Stories Featured Posts); “As a light-skinned Black man, I prefer lightskinned women. Am I a racist?” (Quora); “Black women marry less than others, and it’s even worse for darker-skinned Black women;” (The Guardian); “Sorry, you seem nice and all, but I’m just not into Black girls;” (34th Street Magazine); “Society Thinks Black Girls are Ugly;” (The Harvard Crimson); “The Love is unlikely to be returned;” (Voice Online).

A poll of 1,100 African Americans from NPR, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Harvard School of Public Health asked respondents between the ages of 18 and 49 about whether they were seeking long-term relationships.

They found a significant gender skew among Blacks. The majority of respondents, 57 percent, were not interested in seeking long-term relationships, and more women than men are opting out of seeking those relationships as a goal.

There is a famous quote bandied about recently attributed to the late, great Malcolm X: “The most unprotected person in America is the Black woman.

The most neglected person in America is the Black woman.” Basically, increasing numbers of Black women are feeling left out and disrespected.

One of the factors that contributes to this mindset is related to the high number of Blacks raised in single-parent households where there is reduced experience related to intact families. This leads to the development of low expectations in women who come from these homes.

No matter what side of the fence you find yourself on regarding the issue of Gender Wars, there is an extreme imbalance in our communities. The resulting dysfunction can be seen in crime statistics, inadequate educational access, poverty, homelessness, and just about any other problem that the Black community faces.

Who is responsible for this predicament? Men are pointing fingers at women, blaming them for the dysfunction, and women are pointing fingers at men. The truth is probably somewhere in between.

It’s certain, however, that if the community is to heal, it will take all hands on the proverbial deck to fix things.

It has been said by some observers that gender problems tend to be bellwethers of the demise of a civilization. It is the calm before the storm; the harbinger of doom. We are truly in the throes of a struggle in this regard, and it will be important for the Black community to come together in an attempt to offset this malevolent trend. We cannot delude ourselves into thinking that we can ignore the problem and it will just go away.

We must face this gender-related problem, though admittedly a complex one, head on!

One difficulty that must be overcome is that “gender roles” might need to be modified. There may have to be families where women take on roles traditionally reserved for men, i.e., as breadwinners. They may not be able to be the traditional stay-at-home moms expecting men to carry all of the weight. And men must become flexible and not be intimidated by the strong women that will result from this scenario.

The focus should be on BLACK PARTNERSHIPS of an egalitarian nature where mutual respect is evident. Self-love is needed for healing. And finally, Black men and women must learn to love each other regardless of skin tone. Hopefully, we can evolve in this regard. A Luta Continua.

(Reprinted from the Chicago Crusader)

Founded 1910

Rod Doss Editor & Publisher Stephan A. Broadus Assistant to the Publisher Allison Palm Office Manager

Rob Taylor Jr. Managing Editor

John. H. Sengstacke

Editor & Publisher Emeritus (1912-1997)

Ashley Johnson Sales Director

DECEMBER 27, 2023 - JANUARY 2, 2024

B3

Teaching our own history “I’m for truth, no matter who tells it.

I’m for justice, no matter who it is for or against. I’m a human being, first and foremost, and as such I’m for whoever and whatever benefits humanity as a whole.” —Malcolm X We have launched a statewide task force in conjunction with the Florida General Baptist Convention, Inc., Reverend Dr. Carl Johnson, president, to demand that the governor of Florida and the State Department of Education, teach Black history accurately, factually and forthrightly. In the spirit of Dr. King, in the State of Florida, we organized a task force labeled, “Teaching Our Own History.”

Carter G. Woodson, the founder of Negro History Week, encouraged us to not sit idly by and allow this system to “mis”-educate Black people.

Our Task Force will present to the government, a comprehensive curriculum that correctly and effectively teaches Africa and African American history to students in Florida’s public schools. Moreover, we will develop 40-plus “Freedom Schools” by 2025. We will not sit idly by and allow any governor, to erase the accurate teaching of Black history.

The Objectives of “The Teaching Our Own History” Task Force are as follows:1. To encourage the accurate and

Reverend Dr. RB Holmes Jr.

Commentary unbiased teaching of African American history, culture, experiences and invaluable contributions in the state of Florida and this nation 2. To develop strategies and solutions to support and strengthen public education in marginalized communities 3. To develop and adequately support 40 Freedom Academies across the state of Florida 4. To create significant after school programs for students in Title One schools in marginalized communities across the state of Florida, using an age appropriate African American History Curriculum to strengthen reading, writing and mathematics skills 5. To create summer “Freedom Schools” to teach youth the importance of African Americans contributions, self-respect, personal responsibility, and African American contributions 6. To empower and encourage the three private HBCUs in Florida to

develop laboratory schools on their respective campuses by 2025 7. To cultivate and create partnerships with foundations, businesses and philanthropists to support programs and events that consistently celebrate the contributions of African American history, culture, literature, faith and heritage We all must redouble our efforts to fight for social justice, voting rights, civil rights, diversity, equity and inclusion. The dismantling of programs of diversity, equity and inclusion are shameful and insulting.

Over the next several weeks, selected members of “The Teaching Our Own History” Task Force will publish articles for dissemination through The National Black Press, addressing the critical components for teaching our own history. I encourage our readers to enthusiastically engage in meaningful discussions in their various constituent groups and organizations as we speak “truth to power.”

(Rev. Dr. RB Holmes Jr. is chairman of the Remembering Our Past…Redefining Our Present…Reaffirming Our Future: “The Teaching of Our Own History” Task Force.)

You are entitled to your opinion, not your own facts (TriceEdneyWire.com)—“Hamas and Putin…both want to completely annihilate a neighboring democracy…

Hamas’ stated purpose for existing is the destruction of the state of Israel and the murder of Jewish people. Hamas does not represent the Palestinian people. Hamas uses Palestinian civilians as human shields, and innocent Palestinian families are suffering greatly because of them.”—President Biden October 19, 2023 On October 19th President Biden gave an Oval Office address. He was desperately trying to convince the nation to support his $105B military and humanitarian aid package for Israel, Ukraine and border efforts. His focus was on the wars between Israel/ Hamas and Ukraine/Russia.

Biden’s presentation was ahistorical, based upon supposition, personal bias and just wrong. One of Biden’s constant underlying themes as he champions support for these failing efforts is that by supporting Israel and Ukraine, we’re supporting “democracy”. One of the prevalent talking points about Israel is that it’s the “only democracy in the Middle East”. First off, there are many democracies in the Middle East, including Turkey and Algeria. As for the settler colonial state known as Israel, it is not a democracy. It is defined in its declaration of independence as a “Jewish state”. Thus, all authorized political parties must acknowledge Israel as the state of the “Jewish People”, meaning you cannot be elected to the Knesset (Parliament) if you call for a secular state for all its citizens. It seizes Palestinian land and destroys Palestinian homes, villages and towns without judicial review. If you are Palestinian living in the “Occupied Territories” , there is no democracy. In fact, democracy, freedom of self-determination and freedom from extra-judicial detainment and murder are a major part of what Hamas is fighting for.

Ukraine is also not a democracy. The current conflict was not “unprovoked” as President Biden loves to claim.

The US overthrew the democratically elected government of Viktor Yanukovych in the Maidan Coup in 2014.

The actions fomented by the US put an end to democracy in Ukraine. As author and columnist Branko Marcetic writes, “…understanding it is critical to understanding the ongoing standoff over Ukraine…” Dr. Jeffrey Sachs writes, “There were in fact two main U.S. provocations (to the conflict in Ukraine). The first was the U.S. intention to expand NATO to Ukraine and Georgia...The second was the U.S. role in installing a Russophobic regime in Ukraine by the violent overthrow of Ukraine’s pro-Russian President, Viktor Yanukovych, in February 2014.”

If there is democracy and sovereignty in Ukraine, why did the US dispatch former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson to Ukraine to end peace negotiations? The Ukrainian news outlet Ukrayinska Pravda reported in May of 2022, “Johnson brought two simple messages to Kyiv. The first is that Putin is a war criminal; he should be pressured, not negotiated with.

And the second is that even if Ukraine is ready to sign some agreements on guarantees with Putin, they (the West) are not.” Finally, if there is democracy in Ukraine, why did Zelensky ban 11 “pro-Russian” political parties, limit the media’s access to war coverage and cancel elections? This is the “democracy” that President Biden wants to waist U.S. taxpayer dollars to defend?

On November 29th, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer gave an impassioned 45-minute speech on the floor of the Senate during which he decried the rise of antisemitism in

Wilmer J. Leon III

Commentary the US and Europe and pushed for support for the Biden administration’s Israel support package. Schumer said, “No matter where we stand on the war in Gaza, all of us must condemn antisemitism with full-throated clarity wherever we see it...” He also said, “From October 7, 2023 in Southern Israel to 2018 at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh to 1999 at the Los Angeles JCC…to 1492 in Spain, 1394 in France, 1290 in England … the Jewish people have been humiliated, ostracized, expelled, enslaved, and massacred for millennia.” The first problem with his rhetoric as well as Biden’s is the conflict in Occupied Palestine did not begin on October 7, 2023.

Schumer is correct. All of us must condemn antisemitism. However, that’s not what this 75-year struggle is about. Schumer, Biden, Blinken, et al are trying to conflate or equate the Palestinian struggle against Zionism (a racist political ideology) with the historic struggles of Jews and Judaism (one of the three Abrahamic religions).

Blinken said recently in Israel, “If you’ll permit me a personal aside, I come before you not only as the United States Secretary of State, but also as a Jew.” Biden is on record as saying, “I don’t believe you have to be a Jew to be a Zionist, and I am a Zionist.” The Palestinian struggle is anti-Zionist, anti-oppression and anti-genocide.

It’s not antisemitic. Contrary to the dominant rhetoric, the two are not the same.

Just as we must condemn antisemitism in all of its forms, we must also condemn genocide, apartheid, the dehumanization of Palestinians and collective punishment. This is what the settler-colonial government of Israel has been inflicting upon the Palestinians for seventy-five years with the help of the US. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant is on record as saying, “We are fighting against animals, not people…” Israel’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich is on record saying there was “no such thing as a Palestinian” because “there is no such thing as the Palestinian people”. Palestinian people are “an invention” of the past century. This in in direct contradiction to the Balfour Declaration of 1917, “His Majesty’s Government view with favour the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people, and will use their best endeavours to facilitate the achievement of this object, it being clearly understood that nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities in Palestine…” Take note, the “homeland” is in Palestine not Israel.

During his speech in the Senate, Schumer specifically called out the phrase “ from the river to the sea,” saying it alarms Jewish people to hear it used. This phrase is not a call for extermination, it is a call for freedom and equality among all inhabitants of the region. When does the sensitivities of Jewish people outweigh the genocide of Palestinians? This differs from the first Zionist claims of ‘a land without a people for a people without a land’ which ignores and/or denies the very existence of the people that are indigenous to the area. This sounds eerily reminiscent of South African

apartheid (and Israel was one of the largest supporters of South African apartheid) and the US genocide of Native Americans.

Schumer also added that because many of the incidents targeting Jewish people have come alongside leftwing demonstrations against Israel, liberal Jewish people “are feeling singled, targeted and isolated.” If this is true, why are “left-wing” organizations such as Jewish Voice for Peace, American Council of Judaism and IfNotNow speaking out in support of Palestine? Are they not Jewish enough for Senator Schumer? This is a not so veiled attempt by Schumer to turn the opposition to the genocide and atrocities being committed against the Palestinians from a moral imperative to a political discussion.

Stefanie Fox, Executive Director of Jewish Voice for Peace, has criticized Schumer’s speech. “At a time when White supremacists and White nationalists take advantage of this moment to sow confusion and promote antisemitism, Islamophobia and racism, misstating what antisemitism is harms all of our work for justice and endangers our communities…This is reprehensible.”

Schumer said that his “heart breaks for the thousands of Palestinian civilians who have been killed or are suffering in this conflict.” If that’s true Senator Schumer and not some trite talking point in a failed attempt to show balance; the solution is very simple. Stop rallying support for and voting to fund the apartheid and genocide of Palestinians. Stop voting to send US taxpayers dollars (in violation of American law) to Israel. Why don’t you stand in the Senate and oppose Israel’s National Security Minister Itamir Ben-Gvir handing out assault rifles purchased from the US to settlers in the West Bank so they can murder Palestinians?

Now, one of the Zionist’s main problems is that Israel is losing support for it’s oppression from all corners of the world. Israel’s asymmetric and disproportionate response to the Resistance is bombing the world into reality. As with the 1972 photo of Phan Th Kim Phúc OOnt referred to “the napalm girl” that helped to turn world’s opinion against the Vietnam War, images of people suffering (mostly women and children) before and after Israel’s war declaration are turning their support towards Palestine.

AntiWar.com reports, the latest poll from Data for Progress found that 61 percent of American voters support the idea of the US calling for a “permanent” ceasefire in Gaza and a general de-escalation of violence, including 76 percent of Democrats, 49 percent of Republicans, and 57 percent of independent or third-party voters.

As Miriam Makeba aka “Mama Africa” sang about in “Piece of Ground”: “White man don’t sleep long and don’t sleep too deep Or your life and your possessions, how long will you keep?

For I’ve heard a rumor that’s running around That the Black man’s demanding his own piece of ground” The tide is starting to turn from supporting apartheid in the Occupied Territories. What was previously a blind eye is now being focused on the genocide. Biden, Blinken, Schumer, et al have to lie. Otherwise, how do they sell genocide, ethnic cleansing and war crimes to the American people and the world? They are entitled to their opinions but not their own facts.

(Dr. Wilmer Leon is the Producer/ Host of the nationally broadcast call-in talk radio program “Inside the Issues with Leon,” on SiriusXM Satellite radio channel 126. Co-Host of “The Critical Hour” on Radio Sputnik and host of “Connecting the Dots” podcast and author of Politics Another Perspective.)

B4

DECEMBER 27, 2023 - JANUARY 2, 2024

FORUM

Can you buy a Senate seat?

(TriceEdneyWire.com)—Angela Alsobrooks, the Prince George’s County Executive, is an energetic, knowledgeable public servant. An attorney, mom, and activist, she led Maryland’s largest county through the pandemic, providing much-needed assistance for needy citizens. Prince George’s County (PGC) is a heavily Black area next to Washington, DC. It is also one of the wealthiest counties for Black people. Some of us jokingly call it “Ward 9” because of its proximity to DC (which has eight wards) and because so many DC influentials live there. Angela is one of three Black women running for Democratic seats in the United States Senate in 2024 (Barbara Lee in California and Lisa Blunt Rochester in Delaware), and her main opponent in the Democratic primary is Democratic congressman and billionaire David Trone, who has three congressional terms and a liquor empire to his name.

Trone (D) once said, “I’m willing to spend a lot more money than anybody else.”

He’s done it before, spending more than ten million dollars on each of his congressional races. So far in the Senate race, Trone has spent $9.8 million of his own money. Alsobrooks, with a far more modest portfolio, has raised $3.3 million. She has fifteen times more individual donors than Trone, who says he won’t take PAC money and only wants small contributions. His willingness to spend more money than anyone else reflects the arrogance of wealth. It means he can buy anything, even a Senate seat.

Trone says his self-financed campaign means says it means he is not beholden to political action committees or other external financing organizations. It also means he is not accountable to anyone. While some of his work in Congress suggests that he might support good programs, like second chance legislation for ex-offenders, Self-financing also means he is free to support the interests of the wealthy, especially around taxation and income distribution.

Trone’s decision to self-finance his campaign highlights his commitment to focusing solely on the needs of his constituents without the influence of external financial organizations. By refusing PAC money, he aims to ensure that his policies and decisions are shaped solely by the interests of the people he represents. Trone has used his considerable wealth to support causes like his alma mater, Furman University, and cultural concerns like the Baltimore Symphony. But he has also supported Re-

Julianne Malveaux

News Analysis publican extremists who oppose a woman’s right to choose. That ought to be a non-starter in blue Maryland, but Trone has enlisted some popular Democrats to support him.

Chicago congressman Jonathan Jackson (D) has a cable commercial running ad nauseam. While Jackson should not support Alsobrooks only because she is a Black woman who would add to Senate diversity and expertise, if he is true to the mission of his dad’s Rainbow Coalition, Alsobrooks should be an easy choice.

Similarly, House Minority Leader New York’s Hakeem Jeffries endorsed Trone on December 18, a lump in Alsobrooks holiday stocking. While most Maryland congressional Democrats and Governor Wes Moore support Alsobrooks, the highest ranking Democrat in the House chose to oppose the endorsement of most of his Maryland members to curry to a liquor magnate Many Alsobrooks supporters are, at best, disappointed by Jackson and Jeffries. One has to wonder what kinds of incentives Trone offered to secure their endorsements. But the outcome of the Los Angeles mayoral race, where Mayor Karen Bass was outspent by a factor of ten by her billionaire opponent Rick Caruso, suggests that Trone’s money may not buy him a Senate seat. Alsobrooks has already visited each of Maryland’s 22 counties and Baltimore City (part of Baltimore County but with a separate governmental structure) and has support in every county.

Trone has the cash and can rack up some endorsements, but votes tell the story at the end of the day.

This might be a local story, but for the disrespect that Trone has shown to Angela Alsobrooks and the growing trend of black women being forced to manage disrespect. Trone had the temerity to criticize Alsobrook’s “experience,” touting his thin Congressional record. It reminds me of Malcolm X saying, “The most disrespected person in America is the Black woman.

The most unprotected, the most neglected person in America is the Black woman.

Also, Brooks is juggling challenging news and financial challenges. However, she is buoyed by Black women and men who support her expertise, intelligence, and accomplishments. Can you buy a Senate seat? Not when millions of voters say “no.”

(Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an economist and author based in Washington, DC. The second edition of Surviving and Thriving: 365 Facts in Black Economic History is available from mahoganybooks.com)

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Historical arguments don’t justify the leap to violence Terrorists from Hamas surged into J. Pharoah Doss Israel on October 7th, killing hundreds of Israelis and taking dozens more hostages. Israel declared that it would destroy the terrorist organization that governs Gaza and then unleashed a bombing campaign that killed thousands of innocent Palestinians.

The international community condemned Israel’s government for its harsh reprisals. However, many supporters of the “Palestinian cause” a result of the Israeli occupation’s harsh hesitated to denounce the attack on Israel treatment of the Palestinian population. on October 7th. When pressed, why? They Israel withdrew its armed forces and resorted to historical arguments or histordemolished the settlements in Gaza in ical allegations.

2005. However, Israel has maintained Starting points for these historical argucontrol over Gaza’s borders and imposed ments range from World War I to World an Israeli blockade on the territory since War II. 2006, restricting movement by land, sea, Between 1915 and 1916, the British and air. Israel has faced accusations of high commissioner in Egypt corresponded transforming Gaza into a concentration with the emir of Mecca. The high comcamp or an open-air prison, subjecting missioner told the emir that the United over two million Palestinians to deplorKingdom would back Arab independence able conditions. in exchange for the emir’s cooperation Following Hamas’ October 7th attack, against the Ottoman Empire’s rulers. political scientist Norman Finkelstein The emir asserted that he spoke for all stated, “For the past 20 years, the people Arab-speaking territories east of Egypt, of Gaza, half of whom are children, have including Palestine. The emir agreed, and been immured in a concentration camp. an Arab revolution against the Ottoman [On Oct. 7th] they breached the camp’s Empire began. walls. If we honor John Brown’s armed This, however, was not a formal treaty. resistance to slavery, if we honor the Jews In 1917, Great Britain declared its supwho revolted in the Warsaw ghetto, then port for the formation of a Jewish national moral consistency demands that we honor homeland. The Arabs in Palestine considthe heroic resistance in Gaza.” ered this a betrayal of British previous When historical arguments are coupled commitments and have since resisted the with historical allegations, which are influx of Jews into the territory. emotional appeals disguised as reasons, During the establishment of the state the purpose is no longer to help underof Israel in 1948, Israeli armed forces stand a point of view; it is to justify the decimated Palestinian society, expelling unacceptable.

Palestinians and denying them the ability Here’s a hypothetical scenario combining to return, effectively turning them into a historical argument with a historical perpetual exiles in occupied lands. allegation.

Accusers label Israel as an apartheid After WWII, Great Britain, which state and Israelis as settler colonialists. had governed Palestine since 1922, was Supporters of the “Palestinian cause” prepared to withdraw from the region. accuse Israel of “radicalizing” each new However, the “problem of Palestine” generation of Palestinians against it as remained unresolved, and Great Britain

Check It Out

referred the issue to the newly formed United Nations.

Clearly, the issue was that Arabs and Jews believed Britain supported their right to establish independent states. The United Nations recommended a twostate solution and devised a plan for land division. The Jews accepted the United Nations proposal and established Israel as an independent state, while the Arabs rejected it.

Why did the Arabs oppose an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel?

There’s an historical argument that suggests the Arabs in Palestine were fully aware that once Israel declared independence, seven Arab countries—Egypt, Transjordan, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen—would attack Israel with the goal of destroying the new state, killing all Jews, and taking over all of Palestine.

Israel defeated the Arab countries, establishing its right to exist. As a result of this war, Israel gained control over the majority of the territory recommended by the UN for an Arab state.

Now, let’s assume the attack by the seven Arab countries radicalized Israelis.

Many of the Jews who fought for independence had survived the Holocaust. What if Israel’s first generation alleged that the seven Arab countries sought to complete Hitler’s Final Solution? What if the first generation of Israelis radicalized the next two generations of Israelis not only with that historical indictment but also with the notion that these seven nations would attempt to finish the final solution in the future unless preempted?

Then the third generation of Israelis launched preemptive strikes against the capital cities of the seven Arab countries.

No one in their right mind would justify these actions based on those historical allegations because the outcome is unacceptable.

Just like no one should have justified Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7th.

My Christmas message We at the San Diego Voice & Viewpoint would like to take this opportunity to extend our sincere desire for God’s blessings upon you and your families. It is also a time to remindeach of us why we have and celebrate Christmas.

This country, and most of our lives, were founded upon Christian principles that are at the very essence of this season.

The fact that those of different faiths are allowed to exercise their religious beliefs does not negate that which many of us profess. Neither do we require others to acknowledge or share in our beliefs. This is the beauty of the Freedom of Religion Clause in our Constitution. But the differences in faith does not stop the Spirit of Christmas and here is the reason why.

The Gospel of John, recorded in the Bible at 3:16, states that: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” The operative word is “gave”. It is the gift of Jesus that is responsible for the desire we all have to “give” gifts. It is because that with the gift of Jesus to mankind came the Spirit of giving which is released each time we celebrate His birth.

The angel of the Lord that appeared to the shepherds that night over Bethlehem made a pronouncement that we still feel each Christmas. The angel said: “Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will toward men.”

Consider that Christmas is the only time in the year that just about everything

John E. Warren

Commentary shuts down; it is the one time of the year that we see an outpouring of kindness not seen at any other time. That kindness is the “good will” toward men that the angel spoke of. It was that which the angels spoke of that caused what is called the Christmas Truce of December 24, 1914.

It occurred when soldiers in the muddy trenches on the Western Front of World War I put down their weapons on both sides, stepped out of trenches, met each other face to face and sang Christmas songs because both sides missed being away from their families. In some areas the truce persisted until after New Year’s Day. That same Spirit of Peace continues to settle on each Christmas season as God honors our recognition of the birth of his Son. There are still so many without food or shelter, especially this Christmas season with two major wars underway and a people by the thousands seeking shelter and refuge in our land. Those without the basic necessities and comforts so many of us have are knocking at our doors and so many of us are responding in every way possible. This is a time for us to be

thankful for what we do have as opposed to complaining about what we want or don’t have. To many, the stable at Bethlehem would be a welcomed shelter as compared to the streets on which they sleep. For many of our families there are personal problems, an empty chair at a table because of a missing loved one, but we are still blessed and should find comfort in helping others through this dark time in their lives.

While many of us do not have the shelter, food or comforts that so many others have, yet we are blessed with health or family or the meeting of our basic needs, if not our wants. Our families might have their personal problems, or many of us have an empty chair at the table this season due to the pandemic or other tragedies, yet we are still blessed. Let us remember those who lost so much during the recent storms. Let us seek ways to be of help to others and by doing so help ourselves.

We give thanks for those among us seeking to help and feed and shelter so many others. Let us commit to seeking what each of us can do to make a difference in the lives of others and by doing so participate in the gift that keeps on living. May God bless and keep you, regardless of your circumstances. Let us offer up prayers of praise and thanksgiving and sing glory to God in the Highest as well as peace on earth and good will toward all men.

(Dr. John E. Warren, Publisher, The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint Newspaper)

Our need to be tough and resilient (TriceEdneyWire.com)—Back in 2008, I wrote a column that included the following guidance from journalist-historian-author-master teacher Lerone Bennett Jr.: “Given the way we are forced to live in this society, the miracle is not that so many families are broken, but that so many are still together.

That so many Black fathers are still at home. That so many Black mothers are still raising good children. It is the incredible toughness and resilience in Black people that gives me hope. That toughness and resilience should give all of us hope and provide a foundation upon which to build strong, productive, harmonious Black communities.”

Many of us, including myself, sometimes begin to feel a sense of hopelessness when seeing that way too many Black people, young and old, are basically acting as soul mates to White supremacists. That’s what they are when they create havoc in our communities. Fortunately, however that kind of homelessness is very brief because we strongly believe in the possibilities of our people as cited by Brother Lerone. It is an absolute requirement that

A. Peter Bailey

Reality Check Black churches, business organizations, social organizations, communications organizations, fraternities and sororities etc. begin to take a more active role in creating the type of productive unity that has been advocated by many of our ancestors.

A sound response to current events in this country is provided an individual, Thomas Penny, President of Donohoe Hospitality Services. Brother Thomas told me that “This past week I visited Youth Services Center (YSC). In response to the increased violence sweeping our city and many urban centers throughout the country, I believe those who violently harm grandmothers, children, seniors and others need to be held accountable. As I moved through-

out the youth facility and witnessed Black young people as early as thirteen years-old, with their foreheads pressed against the glass window of their single-unit cells, I felt a deep sense of responsibility to those in the facility.

I have volunteered to adopt a unit of 10-12 young people and personally bear the expense of different incentive offerings to encourage positive behavior. Government alone will not solve this problem. We need business leaders, preachers, educators, activists, university students and people of goodwill to engage. It’s the only way forward.”

Just think of the changes that would occur in our urban Black communities if the groups cited by Brother Thomas were taking that kind of action before so many young Black folks get into trouble. If we as a people are as tough and resilient as cited by Brother Lerone, we are in a position to do whatever is necessary to promote and protect our health, economics, cultural, political, technological and communications interests in this country and in the world.

Letters to the editor for publication The New Pittsburgh Courier welcomes all responsible viewpoints for publication. All letters should be typewritten and contain writer’s address and phone number for verification.

All letters will be edited for clarity and length. Address all letters to: Letters to the Editor, New Pittsburgh Courier, 315 East Carson Street, Pittsburgh, Pa. 15219 You may fax your letter to 412-481-1360, or via e-mail to letters@newpittsburghcourier.com

CLASSIFIED New Pittsburgh Courier

B5

DECEMBER 27, 2023-JANUARY 2, 2024

www.newpittsburghcourier.com

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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. The Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office shall provide for up to twenty-five persons to participate in person in the Gold Room, 4th Floor Allegheny County Courthouse. 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 TUESDAY, JANUARY 2, 2024 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. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2024, BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 8:30AM AND 2:30PM IN THE ALLEGHENY COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE. And the balance in CASH, CERTIFIED CHECK, OR CASHIERS CHECK, on or before MONDAY, JANUARY 8, 2024, 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 OF A NEW 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 record their deeds and 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: “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.”

1 JAN 24

3 JAN 24

DEFENDANT(S): MAURO A. KISAK, KNOWN HEIR OF JOANE. KISAK, DECEASED AND GIGI K. HEBRANK, KNOWN HEIR OF JOANE. KISAK, DECEASED ************** CASE NO. GD-23-006795 ********* DEBT $128,490.96 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Benjamin Hoen, Esquire ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: 965 Keynote Circle, Cleveland, OH 44131-1829 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 216-739-5100 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** ALL THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED REAL ESTATE SITUATED IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF MONROEVILLE (FORMERLY THE BOROUGH OF MONROEVILLE), COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA. HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 2328 HAYMAKER ROAD, MONROEVILLE, PA 15146. Book 6125, Page 93, PARCEL NUMBER 859-D-126.

DEFENDANT(S): Stacie L. Ammer and The United States of America c/o the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania ************** CASE NO. MG-18-001084 ********* DEBT $93,049.60 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Roger Fay, Esquire ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: 14000 Commerce Parkway, Suite H, Mount Laurel, NJ 08054 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (856) 724-1888 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Port Vue Borough:

2 JAN 24

PLAINTIFF(S): Wilkinsburg School District and Wilkinsburg Borough vs DEFENDANT(S): DELIVERANCE INCORPORATED ************** CASE NO. GD 22-004162 ********* DEBT $12,990.31 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Jennifer L. Cerce, Esquire ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: 424 S. 27th Street, Ste. 210 Pittsburgh, PA 15203 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 242-4400 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Wilkinsburg:

DEFENDANT(S): Scott D. Haines ************** CASE NO. MG-22-00017 ********* DEBT $40,013.86 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Powers Kirn, LLC ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: Eight Neshaminy Interplex, Suite 215, Trevose, PA 19053 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 215-942-2090 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, 29h Ward of the City of Pittsburgh: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as Linnview Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania I 52 I 0. Deed Book Volume I 3064, Page 476, Instrument No. 2006-39070, Block and Lot Number 60-C-307.

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Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 904 Pleasant Avenue, McKeesport, PA 15133 a/k/a 904 Pleasant Avenue, Port Vue, PA 15133.

Deed Book Volume 11753, Page 229 Instrument Number 2003-28434. Block and Lot Number 0383-F-00251-0000-00.

4 JAN 24

HAVING ERECTED THEREON A TWO FAMILY DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 1116 SOUTH AVE, PITTSBURGH, PA 15221. DEED BOOK 11840, PAGE 10.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 233-F-189.

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5 JAN 24

PLAINTIFF(S): Wilkinsburg School District and Wilkinsburg Borough vs DEFENDANT(S): THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF FERN E. KUZMA, DECEASED ************** CASE NO. GD 23-004546 ********* DEBT $10,974.34 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Jennifer L. Cerce, Esquire ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: 424 S. 27th Street, Ste. 210 Pittsburgh, PA 15203 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 242-4400 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Wilkinsburg: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 107 BEATTY ST, PITTSBURGH, PA 15221. DEED BOOK 3608, PAGE 208.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 233-8-124.

6 JAN 24

PLAINTIFF(S): Penn Hills School District and Municipality of Penn Hills vs DEFENDANT(S): AGNES KARAFFA NK/A SARA AGNES KARAFFA, WITH NOTICE TO KNOWN HEIRS AND ASSIGNS ************** CASE NO. GD 21-014768 ********* DEBT $11,125.36 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Jennifer L. Cerce, Esquire ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: 424 S. 27th Street, Ste. 210 Pittsburgh, PA 15203 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 242-4400 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Municipality of Penn Hills: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 5612 FRONT ST, VERONA, PA 15147. DEED BOOK 3247, PAGE 383.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 366-S-278.

7 JAN 24

PLAINTIFF(S): Elizabeth Forward School District vs DEFENDANT(S): CURTIS BARRETT ************** CASE NO. GD 22-015457 ********* DEBT $10,746.84 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Jennifer L. Cerce, Esquire ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: 424 S. 27th Street, Ste. 210 Pittsburgh, PA 15203 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 242-4400 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Elizabeth: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 118 7TH AVE., ELIZABETH, PA 15037. DEED BOOK 17956, PAGE 91.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 1133-S-355.

8 JAN 24

PLAINTIFF(S): Wilkinsburg School District and Wilkinsburg Borough vs DEFENDANT(S): JENISE CALDWELL ************** CASE NO. GD 21-012251 ********* DEBT $59,117.66 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Jennifer L. Cerce, Esquire ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: 424 S. 27th Street, Ste. 210 Pittsburgh, PA 15203 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 242-4400 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Wilkinsburg: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 737 GLENN AVE, PITTSBURGH, PA 15221. DEED BOOK 10331, PAGE 111.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 232-J-178.

9 JAN 24

DEFENDANT(S): DNT Property Investments, LLC ************** CASE NO. GD 19-015128 ********* DEBT $530,651.00 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: John B. Joyce ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: Grenen & Birsic, P.C. One Gateway Center, 9TH Floor, Pgh, PA 15222 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-7650 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, City of McKeesport, 8th Ward: HAVING ERECTED THEREON AN APARTMENT BIULDING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 3109-3111 FREELAND STREET, MCKEESPORT, PA 15132. DBV 15970, PG 587, BIL #380-R-101

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Public Notice

Public Notice

10 JAN 24

DEFENDANT(S): DNT Property Investments, LLC ************** CASE NO. GD19-015128 ********* DEBT $530,651.00 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: John B. Joyce ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: Grenen & Birsic, P.C. One Gateway Center, 9TH Floor, Pgh, PA 15222 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-7650 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, City of McKeesport, 8th Ward: HAVING ERECTED THEREON AN APARTMENT BUILDING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 3108-3110 FREELAND STREET, MCKEESPORT, PA 15132. DBV 15970, PG 587, B/L 380-R-102.

11 JAN 24

PLAINTIFF(S) BETHEL PARK SCHOOL DISTRICT vs DEFENDANT(S): BRIAN FERRIS & JASON FERRIS, Known Heirs of Mary A. Ferris ************** CASE NO. GD-21-012043 ********* DEBT $20,737.58 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Elizabeth P. Sattler, Esquire ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: 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 BETHEL PARK: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING, KNOWN AS 5021 ORCHARD AVENUE, BETHEL PARK PA 15102. DEED BOOK 10591, PAGE 94. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 393- M-151.

12 JAN 24

DEFENDANT(S): Stephanie J. Rock, Adam T. Watt ************** CASE NO. MG-19-000793 ********* DEBT $136,317.81 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: LOGS Legal Group LLP ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: 3600 Horizon Drive, Suite 150 King of Prussia, PA 19406 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (610) 278-6800 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, MUNICIPALITY (FORMERLY TOWNSHIP) OF PENN HILLS: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 170 SPRING GROVE ROAD, PITTSBURGH, PA 15235. DEED BOOK VOLUME DE VL-14410, PAGE 98, BLOCK AND LOT 0448-N-000650000-00.

13 JAN 24

DEFENDANT(S): John Farah, solely in his capacity as known heir of Deborah L. Ritter a/k/a Deborah L. Farah, deceased and Monica Covert, solely in her capacity as known heir of Deborah L. Ritter a/k/a Deborah L. Farah, deceased and Stephanie Ritter, solely in her capacity as known heir of Deborah L. Ritter a/k/a Deborah L. Farah, deceased and T.J. Ritter, solely in his capacity as known heir of Deborah L. Ritter a/k/a Deborah L. Farah, deceased and The Unknown Heirs of Deborah L. Ritter a/k/a Deborah L. Farah ************** CASE NO. MG-23-000193 ********* DEBT $78,097.45 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Stem & Eisenberg, PC ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: The Shops at Valley Square, 1581 Main Street, Suite 200 Warrington, PA 18976 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 572-8111 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny and the 29th Ward of the City of Pittsburgh: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 1310 Amanda Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15210. Deed Book Volume 12045, Page 160. Block and Lot Number 60-C-166.

14 JAN 24

DEFENDANT(S): The Unknown Heirs of Donna R. Carter a/k/a Donna Carter, deceased ************** CASE NO. MG-23-000027 ********* DEBT $82,996.40 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Stem & Eisenberg, PC ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: The Shops at Valley Square, 1581 Main Street, Suite 200 Warrington, PA 18976 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 572-8111 ******************************* 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 360 Dorothy Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15235. Deed Book Volume 11381, Page 498. Block and Lot Number 368-G-307.

15 JAN 24

DEFENDANT(S): STEVEN SZWECKI, KNOWN SURVIVING HEIR OF HENRY R. SZWECKI AND UNKNOWN SURVIVING HEIRS OF HENRY R. SZWECKI ************** CASE NO. GD-20-001710 ********* DEBT $78,651.55 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: CHRISTINE L. GRAHAM, ESQUIRE ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: McCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC 1420 WALNUT STREET, SUITE 1501 PHILADELPIITA, PA 19102 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 790-1010 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township of Stowe: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 152 William Circle, McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania 15136.

Deed Book Volume 6675, Page 55. Block and Lot Number 0l l 1- D-00395-0000-00.

16 JAN 24

DEFENDANT(S): MICHAEL JOHN GALLO AND WENDY GALLO ************** CASE NO. MG-22-000892 ********* DEBT $246,307.26 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: CHELSEA A. NIXON, ESQUIRE ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: McCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC 1420 WALNUT STREET, SUITE 1501 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19102 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 790-1010 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, and Borough of White Oak: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 1910 Fawcett Avenue, McKeesport, Pennsylvania 15131 a/k/a 1910 Fawcett Avenue, White Oak, Pennsylvania 15131. Deed Book Volume 17358, Page 316. Block and Lot Number 55l-E-352.

17 JAN 24

DEFENDANT(S): ERIC YOUNGBLOOD AND NELVIA SEALS ************** CASE NO. MG-19-001350 ********* DEBT $98,919.53 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: CHRISTINE L. GRAHAM, ESQUIRE ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: McCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC 1420 WALNUT STREET, SUITE 1501 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19102 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 790-1010 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Municipality of Penn Hills: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 6921 Alcoma Drive, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15235.

Deed Book Volume 16575, Page 447.

Block and Lot Number 0634-J-00348.

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18 JAN 24

DEFENDANT(S): VINCENT D. METZ ************** CASE NO. MG-22-000507 ********* DEBT $134,756.33 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: CHRISTINE L. GRAHAM, ESQUIRE ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: McCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC 1420 WALNUT STREET, SUITE 1501 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19102 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 790-1010 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township of Shaler: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 123 Lily Drive, Glenshaw, Pennsylvania 15116 a/k:/a 123 Lilly Drive, Glenshaw, Pennsylvania 15116. Deed Book Volume 14379, Page 291. Block and Lot Number 0615-P-000360000-00.

19 JAN 24

DEFENDANT(S): KELLY J. METZ ************** CASE NO. MG-19-000907 ********* DEBT $70,049.83 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: CHRISTINE L. GRAHAM, ESQUIRE ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: McCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC 1420 WALNUT STREET, SUITE 1501 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19102 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 790-1010 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Port Vue: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 1326 Barkley Road, McKeesport, Pennsylvania 15133 A/K/A 1326 Barkley Road, Port Vue, Pennsylvania 15133. Deed Book Volume 13966, Page 210. Block and Lot Number 0383-R-00097-0000-00.

20 JAN 24

DEFENDANT(S): Eric David Zahner ************** CASE NO. MG-23-000801 ********* DEBT $58,889.05 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Kristine M. Anthou, Esquire ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: Grenen & Birsic, P.C. One Gateway Center, 9th Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-7650 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Springdale: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 737 GARFIELD STREET, SPRINGDALE, PA 15144. DBV 14437, PG 566, B/L #733-A-330.

21 JAN 24

PLAINTIFF(S): County of Allegheny VS. DEFENDANT(S): Joann S. Trumpie a/k/a Joann S. Trumpie Peterman, with Notice to Heirs and Assigns ************** CASE NO. G.D. 22-011650 ********* DEBT $7,001.76 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: 525 William Penn Place, Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-0587 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Jefferson Hills: Having erected thereon a one and a half story frame house being known as 145 Butternut Street, Clairton, PA 15025. Deed Book Volume 3997, Page 657, Block & Lot 766-R-102.

22 JAN 24

PLAINTIFF(S): Quaker Valley School District VS. DEFENDANT(S): Thomas W. Gatehouse, Jr. ************** CASE NO. GD 23-000493 ********* DEBT $7,102.82 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: 525 William Penn Place, Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-0587 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Sewickley: Having erected thereon a one story frame house being known as 202 Bank Street, Sewickley, PA 15143. Deed Book Volume 11551, Page 481. Block & Lot No. 506-C98.

25 JAN 24

PLAINTIFF(S): North Hills School District VS. DEFENDANT(S): Shanell Robinson ************** WRIT NO.: GD 22-002976 ********* DEBT $26,617.39 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: 525 William Penn Place, Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-0587 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township of Ross: Having erected thereon a two story frame house known as 116 Pinevalley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15229. Deed Book Volume 17600, Page 276, Block & Lot 350-E-160.

27 JAN 24

PLAINTIFF(S): County of Allegheny VS. DEFENDANT(S): John B. Smolter ************** CASE NO.: G.D. 17-000018 ********* DEBT $2,575.38 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: 525 William Penn Place, Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-0587 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township of Indiana: Being thereon vacant residential land known as Hillside Lane, Glenshaw, PA 15116. Deed Book Volume 13472, Page 289. Block & Lot No. 523-B-169.8.

28 JAN 24

PLAINTIFF(S): County of Allegheny VS. DEFENDANT(S): John B. Smolter ************** CASE NO.: G.D. 14-021147 ********* DEBT $2,869.49 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: 525 William Penn Place, Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-0587 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township of Indiana: Having erected thereon a one story brick house being known as 113 Hillside Lane, Glenshaw, PA 15116. Deed Book Volume 13472, Page 289. Block & Lot No. 523-B158.

29 JAN 24

PLAINTIFF(S): Wilkinsburg School District and Wilkinsburg Borough VS. DEFENDANT(S): Rockledge Commons LLC ************** CASE NO.: GD 23-001268 ********* DEBT $29,578.88 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Jennifer L. Cerce, Esquire ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: 424 S. 27th Street, Ste. 210 Pittsburgh, PA 15203 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 242-4400 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Wilkinsburg: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A COMMERCIAL APARTMENT BUILDING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 815 NORTH AVENUE, PITTSBURGH, PA 15221. DEED BOOK 18606, PAGE 170.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 232-N-191.

30 JAN 24

PLAINTIFF(S): Wilkinsburg School District and Wilkinsburg Borough VS. DEFENDANT(S): AM. COTTICA REAL ESTATE LLC ************** CASE NO.: GD 23-005225 ********* DEBT $12,590.98 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Jennifer L. Cerce, Esquire ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: 424 S. 27th Street, Ste. 210 Pittsburgh, PA 15203 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 242-4400 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Wilkinsburg: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 1700 TURNER AVE, PITTSBURGH, PA 15221. DEED BOOK 18080, PAGE 183.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 296-P-160.

24 JAN 24

PLAINTIFF(S): County of Allegheny VS. DEFENDANT(S): Debora M. Kruper ************** CASE NO. GD 19-002983 ********* DEBT $2,579.73 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: 525 William Penn Place, Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-0587 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny; Municipality of Monroeville: Having erected thereon a two story masonry frame townhouse being known as 101 Meadow Gap Drive, Monroeville, PA 15146. Deed Book Volume 12753, Page 59, Block & Lot 544-L-6-0001.

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31 JAN 24

37 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) JOHN S. URBANEK ******************** CASE NO. MG-23-000416 ************* DEBT $111,616.09 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) KMLLAW GROUP, P.C. ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) SUITE 5000, 701 MARKET STREET PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 627-1322 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** IN THE COMMONWEAL TH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, TOWNSHIP OF ROSS:

42 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) GEORGE DANIEL SR. AKA GEORGE A. DANIEL ******************** CASE NO. MG-22-00095l ************* DEBT $26,913.77 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) KMLLAW GROUP, P.C. ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) SUITE 5000, 701 MARKET STREET PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 627-1322 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** IN THE CO:tvlMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, BOROUGH OF MT. OLIVER:

HAVING ERECTED THEREON A SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 631 HIGHLAND AVENUE, TURTLE CREEK, PA 15145. DEED BOOKDE -13439, PAGE 239.

BLOCK AND LOT 454-N-262.

HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 1724 RENTON AVENUE, PITTSBURGH, PA 15229. DEED BOOK 11322, PAGE 401.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 279-N-11 l.

HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 111 SHERMAN STREET, PITTSBURGH, PA 15210. DEED BOOK 12566, PAGE 42.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 14-S-193

38 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) SANDRA J. KORDING AKA SANDRA J. MAMMAY, PAUL F. MAMMAY JR. ******************** CASE NO. MG-21-000052 ************* DEBT $156,947.99 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) KMLLAW GROUP, P.C. ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) SUITE 5000, 701 MARKET STREET PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 627-1322 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, TOWNSHIP OF ROSS:

43 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) JOHN M. DUDA JR. ******************* CASE NO. MG-23-000128 ************* DEBT $71,718.81 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) KMLLAW GROUP, P.C. ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) SUITE 5000, 701 MARKET STREET PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 627-1322 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** IN THE COMMONWEAL TH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, BOROUGH OF LIBERTY:

DEFENDANT(S): Jessica Williams, in her capacity as Administratrix and Heir of the Estate of Joseph Patrick Craig ************** CASE NO.: MG-22-000779 ********* DEBT $50,002.17 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: Lois M. Vitti ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: 663 Fifth Street, Oakmont, PA 15139 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 412-281-1725 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township of Wilkins:

32 JAN 24

DEFENDANT(S): Unknown Heirs, Successors, Assigns and All Persons, Firms or Associations Claiming Right, Title or Interest from or under Patricia L. Frailey, deceased ************** CASE NO.: MG-23-000179 ********* DEBT: $52,318.32 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: LOGS Legal Group LLP ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: 3600 Horizon Drive, Suite 150 King of Prussia, PA 19406 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (610) 278-6800 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, BOROUGH OF WILKINSBURG: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A TWO FAMILY DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 917 SOUTH AVENUE, PITTSBURGH, PA 15221. DEED BOOK VOLUME 12122, PAGE 247, BLOCK AND LOT 0233-A-00301-0000-00.

33 JAN 24

DEFENDANT(S): Kathleen E. Griffin, Robert E. Griffin ************** CASE NO.: GD-19-001549 ********* DEBT: $192,817.87 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: LOGS Legal Group LLP ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: 3600 Horizon Drive, Suite 150 King of Prussia, PA 19406 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (610) 278-6800 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, MUNICIPALITY OF PENN HILLS: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 328 CRESCENT GARDEN DRIVE, PITTSBURGH, PA 15235. DEED BOOK VOLUME 12162, PAGE 469, BLOCK AND LOT 537-R00209-0000-00

34 JAN 24

DEFENDANT(S): HOLLY BRYAN, JEFFREY POOL ************** CASE NO.: MG-23-000634 ********* DEBT: $169,485.42 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEY: KML LAW GROUP, P.C ******************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY: SUITE 5000, 701 MARKET STREET PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106 *********************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 627-1322 ******************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION ******************** IN THE COMMONWEAL TH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, TOWNSHIP OF ELIZABETH: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 102 NARRAGANSETT DRIVE, MC KEESPORT, PA 15135. DEED BOOK 16677, PAGE 471. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 997-C-166.

35 JAN 24

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DEFENDANT(S) ERNEST R. BENARD ******************** CASE NO. GD-23-002815 ************* DEBT $55,618.35 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) KML LAW GROUP, P.C. ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) SUITE 5000, 701 MARKET STREET PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 627-1322 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, BOROUGH OF OAKDALE: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 11 ROBINSON STREET, OAKDALE, PA 15071. DEED BOOK 12598, PAGE 23.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 492-M-389.

HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 162 EAST WEDGEWOOD DRIVE, PITTSBURGH, PA 15229. DEED BOOK 7121, PAGE 553.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 349-D-6.

39 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) GEORGINA A. RONTIINELLI. ******************** CASE NO. MG-23-000418 ************* DEBT $36,855.88 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) KMLLAW GROUP, P.C. ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) SUITE 5000, 701 MARKET STREET PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 627-1322 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, 1ST WARD CITY OF CLAIRTON: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 302 ELM STREET, CLAIRTON, PA 15025.

DEED BOOK 11120, PAGE 521. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 657-P-313.

40 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) JAMES J. LAIRD AKA JAMES JOSEPH LAIRD C/O RIVER COMMUNITIES FIDUCIARY SERVICES, INC. (“RCFS”) IN THEIR CAPACITY AS PLENARY PERMANENT GUARDIAN OF THE PERSON, JAMES J. LAIRD ******************** CASE NO. MG-23-000467 ************* DEBT $25,406.25 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) KMLLAW GROUP, P.C. ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) SUITE 5000, 701 MARKET STREET PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 627-1322 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, BOROUGH OF PITCAIRN: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 1212 NORTH AVENUE, PITCAIRN, PA 15140. DEED BOOK 9192, PAGE 199.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 746-B-170 41 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) STACY E. AUTHER AKA STACY AUTHER, JOHN F. AUTHER AKA JOHN AUTHER ******************** CASE NO. MG-23-000415 ************* DEBT $98,303.33 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) KMLLAW GROUP, P.C. ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) SUITE 5000, 701 MARKET STREET PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 627-1322 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, TOWNSHIP OF RICHLAND: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN A.ND NUMBERED AS 5959 HECKERT ROAD, BAKERSTOWN, PA 15007. DEED BOOK 11285, PAGE 329.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 2007-H-182.

HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 2908 WOODROW STREET, MC KEESPORT, PA 15133. DEED BOOK 13542, PAGE 429.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 556-C-296.

44 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) LISA CREWL AKA LISA FREDERICK SOLELY IN HER CAPACITY AS HEIR OF ROBERT F. CREWL JR., DECEASED ******************** CASE NO. GD-23-001312 ************* DEBT $31,877.14 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) KMLLAW GROUP, P.C. ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) SUITE 5000, 701 MARKET STREET PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 627-1322 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, BOROUGH OF CARNEGIE: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 507 3RD AVENUE, CARNEGIE, PA 15106.

DEED BOOK 5699, PAGE 231. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 102-B-78.

45 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) PATRICK J. MULLIGAN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ******************** CASE NO.MG-23-000581 ************* DEBT $162,824.77 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) KMLLAW GROUP, P.C. ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) SUITE 5000, 701 MARKET STREET PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 627-1322 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, TOWNSHIP OF COLLIER: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 100 SCOTT WAY, CARNEGIE, PA 15106. DEED BOOK 14282, PAGE 81. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 147-F-34.

46 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) MYRA ANN MOTT ******************** CASE NO.MG-22-000791 ************* DEBT $57,756.32 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) CHELSEA A. NIXON, ESQUIRE ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) McCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC 1420 WALNUT STREET, SUITE 1501 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19102 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 790-1010 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Homestead: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 1513 West Street, Homestead, Pennsylvania 15120.

Deed Book Volume 10685, Page 159.

Block and Lot Number 0131-G- 00123

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47 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) DIANTE FIELDS AND MINDY FIELDS ******************** CASE NO. MG-23-000549 ********** NAME OF ATTORNEY: LEON P. HALLER, ESQUIRE *************** ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY PURCELL, KRUG AND HALLER 1719 NORTH FRONT STREET HARRISBURG, PA 17102 *************** ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER 717-234-4178 *************** DEBT $40,640.25 ***** SHORT DESCRIPTION: ************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Wilmerding:

52 JAN 24 DEFENDANT JOHN E. JENKINS, HEIR OF DONALD M. JENKINS, DECEASED THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, SUCCESSORS, ASSIGNS AND ALL PERSONS, FIRMS, OR ASSOCIATIONS CLAIMING RIGHT, TITLE, OR INTEREST FROM OR UNDER DONALD M. JENKINS, DECEASED; THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT ********************* CASE NO. MG-23-000480 ********* DEBT: $196,186.37 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEYS Jill M. Fein, Esquire. Hill Wallack LLP ********************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEYS 1000 Floral Vale Blvd. Suite 300, Suite 250, Yardley, PA 19067 ************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 579-7700 ******************************** SHORT DESCRIPTION: ********************* In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, KENNEDY TOWNSHIP:

59 JAN 24 DEFENDANT CHERYLL. GASTINEAU, AS ADMINISTRATRIX OF THE ESTATE OF ELIZABETH K. CAMPBELL; BRENDAN J. CAMPBELL, IN HIS CAPACITY AS HEIR OF ELIZABETH K. CAMPBELL; TARYN E. CAMPBELL, IN HER CAPACITY AS HEIR OF ELIZABETH K. CAMPBELL; UNKNOWN HEIRS, SUCCESSORS, ASSIGNS AND ALL PERSONS, FIRMS OR ASSOCIATIONS CLAIMING RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST FROM OR UNDER ELIZABETH K. CAMPBELL ********************* CASE NO.MG-19-000591 ********* DEBT: $353,774.63 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEYS Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC ********************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEYS 133 GAITHER DRIVE, SUITE F MOUNT LAUREL, NJ 08054 ************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 855-225-6906 ******************************** SHORT DESCRIPTION: ********************* In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township of Upper St. Clair:

64 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) BRIAN LAQUINTA AKA SAMUEL B. LAQUINTA, IN HIS CAPACITY AS HEIR OF GARY R. LAQUINTA; JULIE DIXON, IN HER CAPACITY AS HEIR OF GARY R. LAQUINTA; LISA BARTHELEMY, IN HER CAPACITY AS HEIR OF GARY R. LAQUINTA; UNKNOWN HEIRS, SUCCESSORS, ASSIGNS, AND ALL PERSONS, FIRMS, OR ASSOCIATIONS, CLAIMING RIGHT, TITLE, OR INTEREST, FROM OR UNDER GARY R. LAQUINTA ******************** CASE NO. MG-22-000916 ************* DEBT $$ 135,205.90 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 133 GAITHER DRIVE, SUITE F MOUNT LAUREL, NJ 08054 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 855-225-6906 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, 28th Ward of the City of Pittsburgh:

69 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) RONALD ROTH ******************** CASE NO.GD-18-011476 ************* DEBT $19,610.98 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Paul J. Giuffre, Esquire Attorney for Plaintiff, Fox Chapel Area School District ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) Giuffre Law Office 221 Commercial Avenue, Suite 200 Aspinwall, PA 15215 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 781-7900 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, TOWNSHIP OF INDIANA:

Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 2510 Edgewood Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15241. Deed Book Volume 4262, Page 427. Block and Lot 0668-F-00090-0000-00.

PARCEL ONE Vacant Land being known as Arnold Street Pittsburgh, PA 15205.

Deed Book Volume 17719, Page 203.

Block and Lot 0040-C-00.278-0000-00.

HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 756 MIDDLE AVENUE, WILMERDING, PA 15148. DEED BOOK VOLUME 18897, PAGE 49. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 545E-284.

48 JAN 24 DEFENDANT Leila E. Washington ********************* CASE NO. MG-22-000955 ********* DEBT: $51,782.94 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEYS Stern & Eisenberg, PC ********************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEYS The Shops at Valley Square, 1581 Main Street, Suite 200 Warrington, PA 18976 ************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 572-8111 ******************************** SHORT DESCRIPTION: ********************* In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny and the 26th Ward of the City of Pittsburgh: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 208 Bonvue St, Pittsburgh, PA 15214. Deed Book Volume 11905, Page 419. Block and Lot Number l 16-A-195.

HAVING ERECTED THEREON A ONE STORY DWELLING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 32 GREEN OAK DRIVE, CORAOPOLIS, PA 15108 DEED BOOK 35494 AND PAGE 196 BLOCK & LOT NO. 156-P-226 54 JAN 24 DEFENDANT MICHAEL LADAKOS, IN HIS CAPACITY AS ADMINISTRATOR AND HEIR OF THE ESTATE OF KAREN M KANAKIS; JOHN LADAKOS, IN HIS CAPACITY AS HEIR OF KAREN M. KANAKIS; UNKNOWN HEIRS, SUCCESSORS, ASSIGNS AND ALL PERSONS, FIRMS OR ASSOCIATIONS CLAIMING RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST FROM OR UNDER KAREN M. KANAKIS ********************* CASE NO. MG-22-000894 ********* DEBT: $32,217.47 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEYS Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC ********************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEYS 133 GAITHER DRIVE, SUITE F MOUNT LAUREL, NJ 08054 ************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 855-225-6906 ******************************** SHORT DESCRIPTION: ********************* In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township of Neville: Being a Mobile Home known and numbered as 7113 Grand Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15225. Deed Book Volume 10274, Page 148. Block and Lot 0273-K-00083-000000.

49 JAN 24 DEFENDANT PHILLIP G. VOGEL, KNOWN SURVIVING HEIR OF DENNIS VOGEL A/K/A DENNIS M. VOGEL, RALPH W. VOGEL, KNOWN SURVIVING HEIR OF DENNIS VOGEL A/K/A DENNIS M. VOGEL, SUZANNE HILL, KNOWN SURVIVING HEIR OF DENNIS VOGEL A/KIA DENNIS M. VOGEL, CHRISTINE SAMPSELL, KNOWN SURVIVING HEIR OF DENNIS VOGEL A/K/A DENNIS M. VOGEL, MARIANNE MIKITKO, KNOWN SURVIVING HEIR OF DENNIS VOGEL A/K/A DENNIS M. VOGEL, AND UNKNOWN SURVIVING HEIRS OF DENNIS VOGEL A/K/A DENNIS M. VOGEL ********************* CASE NO. GD-20-000608 ********* DEBT: $83,817.69 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEYS CHELSEA A. NIXON, ESQUIRE ********************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEYS McCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC 1420 WALNUT STREET, SUITE 1501 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19102 ************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 790-1010 ******************************** SHORT DESCRIPTION: ********************* In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, and Municipality of Penn Hills:

55 JAN 24 DEFENDANT RICKEY WILLIAMS; TOYA WILLIAMS ********************* CASE NO. MG-23-000040 ********* DEBT: $222,971.60 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEYS Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC ********************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEYS 133 GAITHER DRIVE, SUITE F MOUNT LAUREL, NJ 08054 ************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 855-225-6906 ******************************** SHORT DESCRIPTION: ********************* In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Municipality of Penn Hills:

Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 150 Marshall Drive, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15235.

Deed Book Volume 10269, Page 295.

Block and Lot Number 370-H-138.

Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 10 Black Oak Dr. Pittsburgh, PA 15235. Deed Book Volume 12211, Page 498. Block and Lot 0538-C00381-0000-00.

50 JAN 24 DEFENDANT Hilary A. Spell, Personal Representative of the Estate of James D. McCombs, Deceased ********************* CASE NO. GD-23-007496 ********* DEBT: $45,524.62 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEYS The Law Office of Gregory Javardian, LLC ********************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEYS 1310 Industrial Boulevard, pt floor, Suite 101, Southampton, PA 18966 ************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 215-942-9690 ******************************** SHORT DESCRIPTION: ********************* In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Elizabeth Township:

56 JAN 24 DEFENDANT ANTHONY F. PISCITELLI; ANGELA M. GRANT A/KIA ANGELA MARIE GRANT A/KIA ANGELA M. BORDIN ********************* CASE NO. MG-23-000349 ********* DEBT: $214,507.82 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEYS Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC ********************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEYS 133 GAITHER DRIVE, SUITE F MOUNT LAUREL, NJ 08054 ************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 855-225-6906 ******************************** SHORT DESCRIPTION: ********************* In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township of Forward:

HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 5834 MEADE STREET, MCKEESPORT, PA 15135. DEED BOOK VOLUME 10479, PAGE 639. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER. 653-L-229.

51 JAN 24 DEFENDANT Charles A.J. Halpin, III, Esquire, Personal Representative of the Estate of Lois E. Sharlock a/k/a Lois Elaine Sharlock, Deceased ********************* CASE NO. GD-23-008450 ********* DEBT: $234,188.70 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEYS The Law Office of Gregory Javardian, LLC ********************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEYS 1310 Industrial Boulevard, pt floor, Suite 101, Southampton, PA 18966 ************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 215-942-9690 ******************************** SHORT DESCRIPTION: ********************* In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Municipality of Penn Hills: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A ONE-STORY BRICK BUNGALOW BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 1121 MCCULLY DRIVE, PITTSBURGH, PA 15235. DEED BOOK VOLUME 8446, PAGE 490. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER. 540-K-84.

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Being vacant land known as Rainbow Run Rd Monongahela, PA 15063. Deed Book Volume 17785, Page 107. Block and Lot 2274-S-00270-0000-00.

57 JAN 24 DEFENDANT MARJORIE D. PALMER ********************* CASE NO. MG-23-000282 ********* DEBT: $62,974.99 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEYS Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC ********************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEYS 133 GAITHER DRIVE, SUITE F MOUNT LAUREL, NJ 08054 ************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 855-225-6906 ******************************** SHORT DESCRIPTION: ********************* In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, 19th Ward of the City of Pittsburgh: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 324 Kramer Way Pittsburgh, PA 15211. Deed Book Volume 10007, Page 429. Block and Lot 0004-R00151-0000-00.

58 JAN 24 DEFENDANT TIMOTHY S MICHAELS ********************* CASE NO. MG-22-000710 ********* DEBT: $27,999.87 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEYS Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC ********************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEYS 133 GAITHER DRIVE, SUITE F MOUNT LAUREL, NJ 08054 ************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 855-225-6906 ******************************** SHORT DESCRIPTION: ********************* In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Brackenridge: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 801 9th Avenue Brackenridge, PA 15014. Deed Book Volume 9802, Page 132. Block and Lot 1224-A00335-0000-00.

60 JAN 24 DEFENDANT Tyler A. Straus, known Heir of Betty J. S traus, deceased, U nknown H eirs, Successors, Assigns and All Persons, Firms or Associations Claiming Right, Title or Interest from or under Betty J. Straus, deceased ********************* CASE NO. MG-23-000403 ********* DEBT: $103,084.36 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEYS LOGS Legal Group LLP ********************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEYS 3600 Horizon Drive, Suite 150 King of Prussia, PA 19406 ************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (610) 278-6800 ******************************** SHORT DESCRIPTION: ********************* In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, MUNICIPALITY OF PENN HILLS: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 807 CLEARVIEW DRIVE, VERONA, PA 15147.

DEED BOOK VOLUME 15131, PAGE 118, BLOCK AND LOT 0446-H-00298-0000-00.

61 JAN 24

DEFENDANT Vincent Joseph Molitiemo, Jr., Courtney Crissman ********************* CASE NO. MG-19-000501 ********* DEBT: $129,653.78 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEYS LOGS Legal Group LLP ********************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEYS 3600 Horizon Drive, Suite 150 King of Prussia, PA 19406 ************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (610) 278-6800 ******************************** SHORT DESCRIPTION: ********************* In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, BOROUGH OF PLUM: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 7194 LEECHBURG ROAD, NEW KENSINGTON, PA 15068. DEED BOOK VOLUME 16600, PAGE 366, BLOCK AND LOT 0849A-00138-0000-00.

62 JAN 24

DEFENDANT Linda White, Unknown Heirs, Successors, Assigns and All Persons, Firms or Associations Claiming Right, Title or Interest from or under William H. White, deceased, William Hunter White, known Heir of William H. White, deceased, Melissa M. Francis, known Heir of William H. White, deceased, Jessica R. White, known Heir of William H. White, deceased, Heather L. White, known Heir of William H. White, deceased ********************* CASE NO. MG-19-000635 ********* DEBT: $57,221.63 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEYS LOGS Legal Group LLP ********************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEYS 3600 Horizon Drive, Suite 150 King of Prussia, PA 19406 ************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (610) 278-6800 ******************************** 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 1028 MUELLER STREET, GIBSONIA, PA 15044. DEED BOOK VOLUME DE 11700, PAGE 404, BLOCK AND LOT 1668-M00013-0000-00.

PARCEL 2: HAVING THEREON VACANT LAND BEING KNOWN AS MUELLER STREET, GIBSONIA, PA 15044. DEED BOOK VOLUME DE 11700, PAGE 404, BLOCK AND LOT 1668S-00209-0000-00.

63 JAN 24 DEFENDANT ANTOINE T. BROOKS ********************* CASE NO. MG-22-000998 ********* DEBT: $29,033.33 ****** NAME OF ATTORNEYS Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC ********************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEYS 133 GAITHER DRIVE, SUITE F MOUNT LAUREL, NJ 08054 ************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 855-225-6906 ******************************** SHORT DESCRIPTION: ********************* In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, 20th Ward of the City of Pittsburgh: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 3124 Hanksville Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15216. Deed Book Volume 12235, Page 322. Block and Lot 0063-F00045-0000-00.

In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, 28th Ward of the City of Pittsburgh: PARCEL TWO Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 1656 Arnold Street Pittsburgh, PA 15205 Deed Book Volume 17719, Page 203.

Block and Lot 0040-C-00277-0000-00.

65 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) TIMOTHY J. ODDIS ******************** CASE NO. MG-23-000254 ************* DEBT $174,838.60 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) CHRISTINE L. GRAHAM, ESQUIRE ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) McCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC 1420 WALNUT STREET, SUITE 1501 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19102 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 790-1010 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township of Harrison: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 1216 Arizona Avenue, Natrona Heights, Pennsylvania 15065. Deed Book Volume 17877, Page 333. Block and Lot Number 1518-R-00007.

66 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) AMANDA CLARK ******************** CASE NO. MG-23-000088 ************* DEBT $177,300.41 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) CHRISTINE L. GRAHAM, ESQUIRE ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) McCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC 1420 WALNUT STREET, SUITE 1501 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19102 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 790-1010 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township of Elizabeth: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 925 Scenery Drive, Elizabeth, Pennsylvania 15037.

Deed Book Volume 17752, Page 295.

Block and Lot Number 1130-N- 002220000-00.

67 JAN 24 PLAINTIFF(S) TOWNSHIP OF INDIANA vs DEFENDANT(S) HALL FAMILY TRUST ******************** CASE NO. GD-22-009773 ************* DEBT $7,003.89 ********* 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, TOWNSHIP OF INDIANA: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A FARM BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 150 EISELE ROAD, CHESWICK, PA 15024.

DEED BOOK 14945, PAGE 229.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 1081-M-229

68 JAN 24 PLAINTIFF(S) FOX CHAPEL AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT vs.

DEFENDANT(S) ESTATE OF RANDAL A. ROTH and RONALD ROTH ******************** CASE NO.GD-18-011824 ************* DEBT $21,316.32 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Paul J. Giuffre, Esquire Attorney for Plaintiff, Fox Chapel Area School District ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) Giuffre Law Office 221 Commercial Avenue, Suite 200 Aspinwall, PA 15215 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 781-7900 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, TOWNSHIP OF INDIANA: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A RESIDENTIAL SINGLE FAMILY HOME BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 240 LITTLE DEER CREEK ROAD, CHESWICK, PA 15024, MORE FULLY DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK VOLUME 12201, PAGE 259; AND BEING DESIGNATED AS BLOCK AND LOT NO.1084-E-98.

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HAYING ERECTED THEREON AN INDUSTRIAL WAREHOUSE BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 230 LITTLE DEER CREEK ROAD, CHESWICK, PA 15024, MORE FULLY DESCRIBED AS PARCEL FIRST IN DEED BOOK VOLUME 10942, PAGE 52; AND BEING DESIGNATED AS BLOCK AND LOT NO. 1084-E-112.

70 JAN 24 PLAINTIFF(S) FOX CHAPEL AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT vs DEFENDANT(S) RONALD ROTH ******************** CASE NO.GD-18-011821 ************* DEBT $38,147.31 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Paul J. Giuffre, Esquire Attorney for Plaintiff, Fox Chapel Area School District ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) Giuffre Law Office 221 Commercial Avenue, Suite 200 Aspinwall, PA 15215 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 781-7900 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, TOWNSHIP OF INDIANA: PARCEL I: HAYING ERECTED THEREON A RESIDENTIAL SINGLE FAMILY HOME BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 253 LITTLE DEER CREEK ROAD, CHESWICK, PA 15024, MORE FULLY DESCRIBED AS PARCEL SECOND IN DEED BOOK VOLUME 10942, PAGE 63; AND BEING DESIGNATED AS BLOCK AND LOT NO. 1084A-154; AND PARCEL II: HAVING ERECTED THEREON AN INDUSTRIAL SMALL SHOP BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 242 LITTLE DEER CREEK ROAD, CHESWICK, PA 15024, MORE FULLY DESRCIBED AS PARCEL FOURTH IN DEED BOOK VOLUME 10942, PAGE 63; AND BEING DESIGNATED AS BLOCK AND LOT NO. 1084-E-89.

71 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) Charles A.J. Halpin, III, Esquire, Personal Representative of the Estate of Anthony A. Krivickas, Deceased ******************** CASE NO.GD-23-008876 ************* DEBT $54,799.16 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) The Law Office of Gregory Javardian, LLC ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 1310 Industrial Boulevard, 1st Floor, Suite 101, Southampton, PA 18966 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 215-942-9690 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, 28th Ward, City of Pittsburgh: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING HOUSE BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 1555 HARLOW STREET, PITTSBURGH, PA 15204. DEED BOOK VOLUME 6302, PAGE 337. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER. 71-F-58.

72 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) PAUL A NOVAK, MARY BETH NOVAK A/ KIA MARY NOVAK ******************** CASE NO.MG-16-000765 ************* DEBT $140,710.22 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) KML LAW GROUP, P.C ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) SUITE 5000, 701 MARKET STREET PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 627-1322 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, BOROUGH OF WHITEHALL: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 5148 BAPTIST ROAD, PITTSBURGH, PA 15236. DEED BOOK 11711, PAGE 488.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 249-S-186.

73 JAN 24 PLAINTIFF(S): HIGHLANDS SCHOOL DISTRICT vs.

DEFENDANT(S) NORMAL. DEER ******************** WRIT NO.: GD-22-005286 ************* DEBT $14,005.65 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) ANTHONY GIGLIO, ESQUIRE ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 1500 ARDMORE BLVD, SUITE 506, PITTSBURGH, PA 15221 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 243-9700 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Harrison Township: Having erected thereon a retail structure with apartments above known as 87 Garfield Street, Natrona Heights, PA 15065 Deed Book Volume 14139, Page 450, Block and Lot 1368-G-336.

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74 JAN 24 PLAINTIFF(S): Penn Hills School District and Municipality of Penn Hills vs.

DEFENDANT(S) Benjamin F. Rouse and Yvonne D. Rouse ******************** CASE NO.GD 21-002640 ************* DEBT $9,390.50 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Jennifer L. Cerce, Esquire ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 424 S. 27th Street, Ste. 210 Pittsburgh, PA 15203 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 242-4400 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Municipality of Penn Hills:

79 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) TIMOTHY M. GALLAGHER ******************** CASE NO. GD-21-008640 ************* DEBT $44,983.05 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) CHRISTINE L. GRAHAM, ESQUIRE ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) McCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC 1420 WALNUT STREET, SUITE 1501 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19102 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 790-1010 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Baldwin:

85 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) JOHN MERCALDE, IN HIS CAPACITY AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF EUGENE MERCALDE, DECEASED; MICHAEL MERCALDE, IN HIS CAPACITY AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF EUGENE MERCALDE, DECEASED; UNKNOWN HEIRS, SUCCESSORS, ASSIGNS AND ALL PERSONS, FIRMS OR ASSOCIATIONS CLAIMING RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST FROM OR UNDER EUGENE MERCALDE, DECEASED ******************** CASE NO. MG-22-000846 ************* DEBT $151,823.87 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Stephen Panik, Esquire ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) Brock & Scott, PLLC 2011 RENAISSANCE BOULEYARD, SUITE 100 KING OF PRUSSIA, PA 19406 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (844) 856-6646 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, MUNICIPALITY OF PENN HILLS Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 611 SUMMIT DR, VERONA, PA 15147.

Deed Book Volume 13760, Page 347.

Block and Lot Number 0446-M-000620000-00

90 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) Carol Puhalla and David Nolf ******************** CASE NO. GD-23-006187 ************* DEBT $76,752.55 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Powers Kirn, LLC ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) Eight Neshaminy Interplex, Suite 2I5, Trevose, PA 19053 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 215-942-2090 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township of North Versailles:

96 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) Lisa Ann Winter and Alan B. Winter ******************** CASE NO. MG-23-000623 ************* DEBT $121,651.85 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) PADGETT LAW GROUP, ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 700 Darby Road, Suite 100 Havertown, PA 19083 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 850-422-2520 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** All That Certain Lot or Piece of ground situate in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny and Township of Harrison:

HAVING ERECTED THEREON A SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 7592 TYLER ROAD, VERONA, PA 15147. DEED BOOK 17348, PAGE 334.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 173-H-176.

75 JAN 24 PLAINTIFF(S): Elizabeth Forward School District vs.

DEFENDANT(S) KENNETH A. KOLODZIEJ AND LORI A. KOLODZIEJ ******************** CASE NO.GD 23-006358 ************* DEBT $21,490.24 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Jennifer L. Cerce, Esquire ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 424 S. 27th Street, Ste. 210 Pittsburgh, PA 15203 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 242-4400 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Elizabeth: (PARCEL 1) HAVING ERECTED THEREON A COMMERCIAL THEATER BUILDING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 207 S. 2ND AVENUE, ELIZABETH, PA 15037.

DEED BOOK 11668, PAGE 413.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 1133-L-172; (PARCEL 2) HAVING ERECTED THEREON A COMMERCIAL OFFICE/APARTMENTS OVER BUILDING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 121 S. 3RD AVENUE, ELIZABETH, PA 15037; DEED BOOK VOLUME 11939, PAGE 89.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 1133-M-312; AND (PARCEL 3) BEING ALL THAT VACANT LAND KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 3RD AVENUE, ELIZABETH, PA 15037.

DEED BOOK VOLUME 11939, PAGE 89.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 1133-M-316 76 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) Walter C. Smith ******************** CASE NO.MG-19-000127 ************* DEBT $195,981.53 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Stem & Eisenberg, PC ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) The Shops at Valley Square, 1581 Main Street, Suite 200 Warrington, PA 18976 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 572-8111 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY AND THE TOWNSHIP OF ROSS.: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 309 Noring Court, Pittsburgh, PA 15237. Deed Book Volume 14133, Page 220. Block and Lot Number 431-C-51.

77 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) CRJSTINA CAROLE HELEBRAND, KNOWN SURVIVING HEIR OF LORRAINE C. HELEBRAND AND UNKNOWN SURVIVING HEIRS OF LORRAINE C. HELEBRAND ******************** CASE NO.MG-22-000224 ************* DEBT $127,756.64 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) CHRJSTINE L. GRAHAM, ESQUIRE ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) McCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC 1420 WALNUT STREET, SUITE 1501 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19102 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 790-1010 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Dormont: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 1107 Illinois Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15216.

Deed Book Volume 11184, Page 442.

Block and Lot Number 0097-E-000990000-00.

78 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) CHRISTOPHER L. RUTKOWSKI, JAMIE MARIE ZINGARO RUTKOWSKI A/KlA JAMIE MARIE Z. RUTKOWSKI; and THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, ******************** CASE NO. MG-23-000817 ************* DEBT $38,784.60 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) LEON P. HALLER, ESQUIRE ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) PURCELL, KRUG AND HALLER 1719 NORTH FRONT STREET HARRISBURG, PA 17102 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 717-234-4178 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township of Harrison: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 1322 8TH AVENUE NATRONA HEIGHTS, PA 15065. DEED BOOK VOLUME 14429, PAGE 513. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 1368-J-16.

Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 156 Sunny Drive, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15236.

Deed Book Volwne 09480, Page 635.

Block and Lot Number 0390-C- 002420000-00.

81 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) Carol A. Ashbaugh ******************** CASE NO.MG-18-001346 ************* DEBT $121,230.01 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) LOGS Legal Group LLP ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 3600 Horizon Drive, Suite 150 King of Prussia, PA 19406 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (610) 278-6800 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, PLUM BOROUGH: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 176 BIG HORN ROAD, PITTSBURGH, PA 15239. DEED BOOK VOLUME 8437, PAGE 542, BLOCK AND LOT 1102-M-002620000-00.

82 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) JOSEPH B. FELIX a/k/a JOSEPH BRADDON FELIX ******************** CASE NO.MG-23-000827 ************* DEBT $126,145.46 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Gary W. Darr, Esquire McGrath McCall, P.C. ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) Four Gateway Center, Suite 1040, 444 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 412-281-4333 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Oakmont: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A TWO-STORY FRAME DWELLING KNOWN AS 530 PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE, OAKMONT, PA 15139, DEED BOOK VOLUME 17440, PAGE 310, BLOCK & LOT NO. 363C-73.

83 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) MICHELLE PAULINA; SHANNON PRITCHARD; WILLIAM J. GOODBOY, JR., KNOWN HEIRS OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM J. GOODBOY, SR. NK/A W.J. GOODBOY AND THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, EXECUTORS AND/OR ADMINISTRATORS OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM J. GOODBOY, SR NK/A W.J. GOODBOY ******************** CASE NO.MG-23-000714 ************* DEBT $86,519.81 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Grenen & Birsic, P.C. ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) One Gateway Center, 9th Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-7650 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, City of Pittsburgh, 19th Ward: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING KNOWN AS 229 MERRIMAC STREET, PITTSBURGH, PA 15211. DBV 15100 PG 399, BLOCK & LOT NO. 4-A-124.

84 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) MICHAEL A. BANDOLA; LAURA M. BANDOLA A/KIA LAURA BANDOLA ******************** CASE NO. MG-20-000037 ************* DEBT $47,647.44 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Stephen Panik, Esquire ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) Brock & Scott, PLLC 2011 RENAISSANCE BOULEYARD, SUITE 100 KING OF PRUSSIA, PA 19406 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (844) 856-6646 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, BOROUGH OF MUNHALL Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 716 EAST 12TH AVENUE HOMESTEAD, PA 15120 A/KIA 716 12TH AVENUE, HOMESTEAD, PA 15120, A/KIA 716 EAST 12TH AVENUE, MUNHALL, PA 15120 A/KIA 716 12TH AVENUE, MUNHALL, PA 15120. Deed Book Volume 12111, Page 233. Block and Lot Number 0130-S-00086-0000-00

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86 JAN 24 PLAINTIFF(S) Penn Hills School District and Municipality of Penn Hills vs DEFENDANT(S) RICHARD D. EDWARDS AND THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ******************** CASE NO. GD 23-006778 ************* DEBT $93,006.84 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Jennifer L. Cerce, Esquire ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 424 S. 27th Street, Ste. 210 Pittsburgh, PA 15203 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 242-4400 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Municipality of Penn Hills: BEING ALL THAT VACANT COMMERCIAL LAND KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS RODI ROAD, PITTSBURGH, PA 15235.

DEED BOOK 15221, PAGE 263.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 450-P-19.

87 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) Susan M. Logue and Kenneth R. Sprouse, Jr. ******************** CASE NO. MG-23-000642 ************* DEBT $36,117.23 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) PADGETT LAW GROUP ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 700 Darby Road, Suite 100 Havertown, PA 19083 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 850-422-2520 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, 3rd Ward of the Borough of Tarentum: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A TWO-STORY DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 720 CENTER STREET, TARENTUM, PA 15084. DEED BOOK VOLUME 10131, PAGE 395, INSTRUMENT NUMBER 1998-020339.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 1223-P00144-0000-00.

88 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) David M. Ohler and Jana K. Ohler ******************** CASE NO. MG-23-000435 ************* DEBT $166,763.21 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) PADGETT LAW GROUP ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 700 Darby Road, Suite 100 Havertown, PA 19083 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 850-422-2520 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny and Municipality of Bethel Park: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A SINGLE-STORY DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 227 DRAKE ROAD, BETHEL PARK, PA 15102. DEED BOOK 12596, PAGE 272, INSTRUMENT NUMBER 2005-32045. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 568-F-169.

89 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) Mark L. Gualtieri and Maria Macioszek a/k/a Maria E. Gualtieri ******************** CASE NO. GD-18-004978 ************* DEBT $$117,373.67 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Stem & Eisenberg, PC ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) The Shops at Valley Square, 1581 Main Street, Suite 200 Warrington, PA 18976 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 572-8111 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny and the 19TH WARD OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 746 Berkshire Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15226. Deed Book Volume 14369, Page 449. Block and Lot Number 97-C-196.

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Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 3807 Alice Avenue, North Versailles, Pennsylvania 15137. Deed Book Volume 17260, Page 134, Block and Lot Number 549-C-336.

91 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) DANIELLE E. GREAVES AND TIMOTHY S. CANNON ******************** CASE NO. MG-19-001357 ************* DEBT $337,023.50 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) NATHALIE PAUL, ESQUIRE ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) McCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC 1420 WALNUT STREET, SUITE 1501 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19102 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (215) 790-1010 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township of Findlay: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 236 Horse Shoe Drive, Clinton, Pennsylvania 15026. Deed Book Volume 17068, Page 499, Block & Lot No. 1320-N- 00138-0000-00.

92 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) Patricia V. Lowrey ******************** CASE NO. MG-22-000763 ************* DEBT $52,934.72 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) PATRICK J WESNER, ESQUIRE ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 9000 MIDLANTIC DRIVE, STE 300, PO BOX 5054, MT LAUREL, NJ 08054 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (856) 810-5815 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny 15th Ward of the City of Pittsburgh: HAVING currently erected thereon a single family dwelling being known as 30 Nansen Street, Pittsburgh PA 15207, Deed Book 12478 Page 273, Block and Lot 0056-C-00205-0000-00.

93 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) GEORGETTE DUSETZINA; SYLVIA KOPAY; JUDY KOPAY TELLI, KNOWN HEIRS OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN KOPAY, JR. AND THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, EXECUTORS AND/OR ADMINISTRATORS OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN KOPAY, JR., ******************** CASE NO. MG-23-000730 ************* DEBT $82,445.99 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Kristine M. Anthou, Esquire, ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) Grenen & Birsic, P.C. One Gateway Center, 9th Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-7650 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of White Oak: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING KNOWN AS 226 CARMELLA DRIVE, MCKEESPORT, PA 15131. DBV 13305 PG 154, BLOCK & LOT NO. 549-J-254.

94 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) Scottsdale REI LLC ******************** CASE NO. GD-23-010279 ************* DEBT $199,142.29 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) PADGETT LAW GROUP, ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 700 Darby Road, Suite 100 Havertown, PA 19083 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 850-422-2520 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY AND TOWNSHIP OF ROSS: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A TWO-STORY BRICK DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 74 UNION AVENUE, PITTSBURGH, PA 15202.

DEED BOOK VOLUME 18714, PAGE 125, INSTRUMENT NUMBER 2021-42072.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 2l 5-K-300.

95 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) Scottsdale REI LLC ******************** CASE NO. GD-23-010405 ************* DEBT $443,112.51 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) PADGETT LAW GROUP, ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 700 Darby Road, Suite 100 Havertown, PA 19083 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 850-422-2520 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny and 11th Ward of the City of Pittsburgh: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A TWO-STORY DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 1434 NORTH EUCLID AVENUE, PITTSBURGH, PA 15206.

DEED BOOK VOLUME 18911, PAGE 183, INSTRUMENT NUMBER 2022-15866.

BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 0082-H00191-0000-00.

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HAVING ERECTED THEREON A TWO-STORY DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 1275 11TH AVENUE, NATRONA HEIGHTS, PA 15065. DEED BOOK VOLUME 18331, PAGE 189, INSTRUMENT NUMBER 2021-4595. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 1368-E-69.

97 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) DAVID FRANKLIN, IN HIS CAPACITY AS HEIR OF WILLIAM R. FRANKLIN, DECEASED; UNKNOWN HEIRS, SUCCESSORS, ASSIGNS AND ALL PERSONS, FIRMS, ASSOCIATIONS CLAIMING RIGHT TITLE OR INTEREST FROM OR UNDER WILLIAM R. FRANKLIN, DECEASED ******************** CASE NO. MG-22-000571 ************* DEBT $60,125.50 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Stephen Panik, Esquire ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) Brock & Scott, PLLC 2011 RENAISSANCE BOULEVARD, SUITE 100 KING OF PRUSSIA, PA 19406 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (844) 856-6646 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, 9TH WARD OF THE CITY OF MCKEESPORT Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 3516 MAYFAIR ST, MCKEESPORT, PA 15132. Deed Book Volume 12107, Page 506.

Block and Lot Number 0381-M-OO1010000-00 98 JAN 24 DEFENDANT(S) Robyn Musilek, solely in his capacity as known heir of Bonnie Musilek, deceased and The Unknown Heirs of Bonnie Musilek, deceased and Tracy Musilek, solely in her capacity as known heir of Bonnie Musilek, deceased ******************** CASE NO. GD-23-002817 ************* DEBT $85,208.34 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Stem & Eisenberg, PC ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) The Shops at Valley Square, 1581 Main Street, Suite 200 Warrington, PA 18976 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (844) 856-6646 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny and the 14TH WARD OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 312 Leblanc Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15218-1011. Deed Book Volume 09598, PAGE 334. Block and Lot Number 128-S-31.

99 JAN 24 PLAINTIFF(S): County of Allegheny VS. DEFENDANT(S) Michael K. Willis & Patricia R. Willis ******************** CASE NO. GD 09-018243 ************* DEBT $7,332.25 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 525 William Penn Place Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-0587 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township ofNorth Versailles: BEING thereon vacant residential land lmown as Crestas Avenue, North Versailles, PA 15137. Deed Book Volume 8567, Page 9. Block & Lot No. 376-L-177.

100 JAN 24 PLAINTIFF(S): County of Allegheny VS. DEFENDANT(S) Floreece Davis ******************** CASE NO.GD 19-001337 ************* DEBT $4,885.09 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 525 William Penn Place Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-0587 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Homestead: Having erected thereon a two story frame house being known as 124 East 15th Avenue, Homestead, PA 15120. Deed Book Volume 8638, Page 189. Block & Lot No. 131-C-272.

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DECEMBER 27, 2023 - JANUARY 2, 2024

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Public Notice

Public Notice

Public Notice

Meetings

Meetings

101 JAN 24 PLAINTIFF(S): County of Allegheny VS. DEFENDANT(S) Charles Norman Carey ******************** CASE NO.GD 23-002768 ************* DEBT $5,909.04 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 525 William Penn Place Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-0587 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township of North Versailles:

107 JAN 24 PLAINTIFF(S): Woodland Hills School District VS. DEFENDANT(S) Willette Thomas Jackson, Executrix of the Estate of Sophia N. Thomas a/k/a Sophie N. Thomas, Deceased & The Unlmown Heirs of Willie J. Thomas, Deceased & The Unlmown Heirs of Sophia N. Thomas a/k/a Sophie N. Thomas, Deceased ******************** CASE NO. GD 23-006012 ************* DEBT $5,715.34 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 525 William Penn Place Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-0587 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township of North Versailles:

NOTICE - TOWNSHIP OF KILBUCK The Board of Supervisors of Kilbuck Township will hold a public hearing and a public meeting to consider adoption of an ordinance adding a new Article VI to Chapter 288 of the Township Code of Ordinances to establish a volunteer service earned income tax and real estate tax credit program pursuant to Act 172 of 2016, such hearing and meeting to be held on January 23, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. at the Kilbuck Township Municipal Building, 343 Eicher Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15237.

BEING thereon vacant residential land known as Crestas Avenue, North Versailles, PA 15137. Deed Book Volume 8307, Page 488. Block & Lot No. 376-1170.

102 JAN 24 PLAINTIFF(S): Woodland Hills School District VS. DEFENDANT(S) Sarah McWhite ******************** CASE NO. G.D. 08-017338 ************* DEBT $4,975.25 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 525 William Penn Place Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-0587 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of North Braddock: Having erected thereon a two story frame house being known as 1013 4th Street, Braddock, PA 15104. Deed Book Volume 19199, Page 230. Block & Lot No. 301-E337.

103 JAN 24 PLAINTIFF(S): County of Allegheny VS. DEFENDANT(S) The Unknown Heirs of Daniel Lee Pilszak, Deceased ******************** CASE NO. G.D. 22-008727 ************* DEBT $4,724.71 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 525 William Penn Place Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-0587 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Etna: Parcel #1: Being thereon vacant residential land known as Ganster Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15223 fil/a 17 Ganster Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15223. Deed Book Volume 10746, Page 542. Block & Lot No. 222-P-62.

Parcel #2: Being thereon vacant residential land known as Ganster Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15223. Deed Book Volume 10746, Page 542. Block & Lot No. 222-P-63.

104 JAN 24 PLAINTIFF(S): Woodland Hills School District VS. DEFENDANT(S) Richard J. Comfort & Guy T. James d/b/a CJ Properties ******************** CASE NO. G.D. 16-001997 ************* DEBT $16,308.01 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 525 William Penn Place Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-0587 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of North Braddock: Having erected thereon a one story frame house being known as 1101 4th Street, Braddock, PA 15104. Deed Book Volume 14968, Page 33. Block & Lot No. 301-E-356 105 JAN 24 PLAINTIFF(S): Woodland Hills School District VS. DEFENDANT(S) The Unknown Heirs of Charles Paden, Deceased ******************** CASE NO. G.D. 16-009270 ************* DEBT $8,235.98 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 525 William Penn Place Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-0587 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of North Braddock: Having erected thereon a two story brick house being known as 1014 4th Street, Braddock, PA 15104. Deed Book Volume 13432, Page 450. Block & Lot No. 301-E321.

106 JAN 24 PLAINTIFF(S): Woodland Hills School District VS. DEFENDANT(S) Judith and George Clementson ******************** CASE NO. GD 08-003174 ************* DEBT $3,728.88 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 525 William Penn Place Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-0587 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Etna: BEING thereon vacant residential land known as Ganster Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15223. Deed Book Volume 10094, Page 132. Block & Lot No. 222-P-61.

Having erected thereon a one story frame house being known as 2108 Crestas Avenue, North Versailles, PA 15137. Deed Book Volume 3688, Page 119. Block & Lot No. 376-1-178.

108 JAN 24 PLAINTIFF(S): Woodland Hills School District VS. DEFENDANT(S) Gelt Properties, LLC ******************** CASE NO. G.D. 23-002986 ************* DEBT $25,623.21 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 525 William Penn Place Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-0587 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Turtle Creek: Parcel #1: Being thereon vacant residential land known as Airbrake Avenue, Turtle Creek, PA 15145 f/k/a 1509 ½ Airbrake Avenue, Turtle Creek, PA 15145. Deed Book Volume 13591, Page 69. Block & Lot No. 456-H-25.

Parcel #2: Being thereon vacant residential land known as Airbrake Avenue, Turtle Creek, PA 15145 f/k/a 1509 Airbrake Avenue, Turtle Creek, PA 15145. Deed Book Volume 13591, Page 69. Block & Lot No. 456-H-23.

109 JAN 24 PLAINTIFF(S): County of Allegheny VS. DEFENDANT(S) Thomas J. Townsend ******************** CASE NO. GD 19-005240 ************* DEBT $5,078.32 ********* NAME OF ATTORNEY(S) Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire ******************************* ADDRESS OF ATTORNEY(S) 525 William Penn Place Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 ************************************ ATTORNEY TELEPHONE NUMBER: (412) 281-0587 ******************************************* SHORT DESCRIPTION: ***************************** In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township of North Versailles: Being thereon vacant residential land known as 307 Tintsman Avenue, North Versailles, PA 15137. Deed Book Volume 13208, Page 289. Block & Lot No. 456-M125.

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SUMMARY The proposed Ordinance establishes an earned income tax credit and real estate tax credit program for eligible active volunteers of volunteer fire companies that are authorized and recognized by the Township as a provider of fire response and protection services within the Township of Kilbuck.

A copy of the proposed Ordinance may be examined in the office of the Township Secretary, without charge, during regular business hours.

TOWNSHIP OF KILBUCK Andrew Wright, Secretary LEGAL NOTICE BOROUGH OF AVALON The Council of Avalon Borough will consider the adoption of Ordinance #1400 at their public Borough Council meeting on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. at the Avalon Borough Building, 640 California Avenue, Avalon, PA 15202.

The title and summary of the Ordinance follows: AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOROUGH OF AVALON, ALLEGHENY COUNTY, COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 385 (“VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC”), ARTICLE II (“TRAFFIC REGULATIONS”) OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE BOROUGH OF AVALON WITH REGARD TO DESIGNATED ONE-WAY STREETS AND AUTHORIZING CARIOUS ONE-WAY STREETS AND THE PLACEMENT OF STOP SIGNS AND AUTHORIZING THE INSTALLATION OF ADDITIONAL S T O P S I G N S AT VA R I O U S INTERSECTIONS IN THE BOROUGH OF AVALON. SUMMARY The proposed Ordinance authorizes the Borough to amend the direction of travel in the 700 block of Center Avene to allow east-bound travel only for the entire length of the block. The Ordinance further authorizes the Borough to add stop signs.

A copy of the proposed ordinance is available for inspection at the Borough of Avalon Administration Building, 640 California Ave., Avalon, PA 15202, between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, prevailing time, Mondays through Fridays. The proposed Ordinance may also be viewed online at http://www.boroughofavalon. org/ordinances-resolutions/ ordinances/.

Lorraine Makatura Avalon Borough Secretary ANNOUNCEMENTS Meetings

MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY A regular meeting of the Board of Trustees of the College will be held on: January 11, 2024 4:30 PM CCAC Allegheny CampusByers Hall 808 Ridge Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 LEGAL ADVERTISING Legal Notices

B9

2024 Joint Planning Commission Meetings The Joint Planning Commission [Planning Commission for the Tri-Borough Communities Avalon, Bellevue, & Ben Avon] has established the time, dates, and locations of their 2024 Meetings. All meetings will be held at 7:00 pm.

The Joint Planning Commission will meet at the Avalon Borough Council Chambers, 640 California Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202, on the following Mondays: January 22, 2024 February 26, 2024 March 25, 2024 April 29, 2024 May 20, 2024 June 24, 2024

July 22, 2024 August 26, 2024 September 23, 2024 October 28, 2024 December 16, 2024

However, the Joint Planning Commission will meet at the Ben Avon Borough Building, 7101 Church Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15202, on the third Monday of November, as follows: November 18, 2024 BOROUGH OF BEN AVON 2024 COUNCIL MEETINGS The Borough of Ben Avon shall hold its Council meetings for the year 2024, on the third Tuesday of the month on the dates shown below beginning in January, both virtually via Microsoft Teams and in the Borough of Ben Avon Municipal Building at 7101 Church Avenue, Ben Avon, PA 15202 at 7:00 p.m. on the following dates: *January 2, Reorganization Meeting February 20, 2024 April 16, 2024 June 18, 2024 August 20, 2024 October 15, 2024 December 17, 2024

January 16, 2024 March 19, 2024 May 21, 2024 July 16, 2024 September 17, 2024 November 19, 2024

Terrie Patsch, Borough Secretary LEGAL ADVERTISING

LEGAL ADVERTISING

Bids/Proposals

Bids/Proposals

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR CAMERA INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE REBID IFB#350-34-23 REBID The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby requests bids from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s):

ADVERTISEMENT SALE OF SURPLUS EQUIPMENT COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY The following surplus equipment will be offered for sale to the highest bidder(s):

Camera Installation and Maintenance Rebid IFB#350-34-23 REBID The documents will be available no later than December 18,2023 and signed, sealed bids will be accepted until 10:00 AM on January 16, 2024. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will only be accepting physical bids dropped off in person from 8:00 AM until the closing time of 10:00 AM on January 16, 2024, in the lobby of 412 Boulevard of the Allies, Pittsburgh PA 15219. Bids may be uploaded to the Authority’s online submission site; the link is accessible via the HACP website and within the IFB. Sealed bids may still be mailed via USPS at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at the lobby of 412 Boulevard of the Allies, 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: Mr. Kim Detrick Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 412 Boulevard of the Allies 6th Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-643-2832 A pre-submission meeting will be held on January 4, 2024, at 10:00 AM via Zoom. Please see meeting information below: Meeting ID: 822 0280 1476 Passcode: 866134 Dial in by phone: +1-309-205-3325 The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation.

HACP has revised their website.

As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and log-in, in order to view and download IFB/ RFPs documentation.

REQUEST FOR QUOTATION 240111 Functional PC & Laptops; Functional Monitors; Functional Printers, Toners & Inks; Non-Functional IT Items; and Chemistry Lab Instruments Bids are due in to the CCAC Purchasing Department no later than 2:00 PM on Thursday, January 11, 2024.

For more information, contact Michael Cvetic at mcvetic@ccac.edu.

Community College of Allegheny County Purchasing Department 800 Allegheny Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15233 OFFICIAL ADVERTISEMENT THE BOARD OF PUBLIC EDUCATION of the SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PITTSBURGH Sealed proposals shall be deposited at the Administration Building, Bellefield Ent r ance Lobby, 341 Sout h Bellefield Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pa., 15213, on January 09, 2023, until 2:00 P.M., local prevailing time for: Pgh. Conroy Finish Floor Replacement and Miscellaneous Work General and Asbestos Abatement Primes Pgh. Fulton, Spring Hill, Banksville, and Crescent ECC Replace EM Generator General, Electrical, and Asbestos Abatement Primes Project Manual and Drawings will be available for purchase on December 06, 2023, 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.

Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh

LORRAINE D. ANTAL, deceased, of Shaler, No. 8286 of 2023. Petition to Determine Title filed by Robert Antal, 702 Glenn Avenue, Glenshaw, PA 15116. Peter B. Lewis, Neighborhood Legal Services, 928 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222, Counsel.

Estate of PAUL T. KIRSCH Deceased of Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, No. 02-23-08130, Jennifer Kirsch, Executor, 1554 Berkshire Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15226 or to AUBREY H. GLOVER, Atty; BRENLOVE & FULLER, LLC., 401 Washington Avenue, Bridgeville, PA 15017 Estate of FRANCIS RICHARD CORTES, Deceased of Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Estate No. 02-23-08303, Geraldine V. Cortes, Executor, 2551 Edgewood Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15241 or to TODD A. FULLER, Atty; BRENLOVE & FULLER, LLC. 401 Washington Avenue, Bridgeville, PA 15017

HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.

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DECEMBER 27, 2023 - JANUARY 2, 2024

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

LEGAL ADVERTISING

LEGAL ADVERTISING

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Bids/Proposals

Bids/Proposals

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

ASSISTANT MANAGER OF MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE (FOUR POSITIONS) Pittsburgh Regional Transit is seeking an Assistant Manager of Maintenance and Service to, during off shift periods, assist in managing, coordinating, and monitoring fleet maintenance, service delivery and administration activities for Port Authority of Allegheny County d/b/a Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) to ensure safe and reliable fleet operations. Assists with the development and implementation of maintenance work standards.

Assists in implementing and monitoring standardized administrative programs and maintenance activities and procedures around service goals and performance standards.

Implements maintenance programs to maintain the fleet, facility and support equipment and coordinates subcontracted maintenance work.

Coordinates technical instruction provided to employees and ensures safe work practices are followed.

Conducts investigations and hearings regarding accidents and workplace injuries and supervises the allocation of resources for maintenance activities.

CHIEF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER Pittsburgh Regional Transit is seeking a Chief Development Officer to develop and provide leadership, direction, administration, and oversight to the asset management, grants, service and capital planning, and capital engineering and system planning departments of Port Authority of Allegheny County d/b/a Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT).

Collaborate with the CEO to make recommendations to the Board of Directors on short and long-range planning and development matters to include engineering and construction projects, systems integration, asset management, and the development of short term and long-term capital plans and programs.

CHIEF FINANCE OFFICER Pittsburgh Regional Transit is seeking a Chief Finance Officer to be accountable for the direction, control, and coordination of all financial activities of Port Authority of Allegheny County d/b/a Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT). Provides overall direction for general accounting, accounts receivable and payable, cash management treasury operations, grants accounting; financial planning and budgets; grants strategy and capital programs. At the direction of the Chief Executive Officer works with the Chief Development Officer (CDO), develops long range strategic financial plan.

Directs activities associated with the security and investment of the organization’s assets and funds; and ensures that financial transactions, policies, and procedures meet the organization’s short- and long-term objectives, and regulatory body requirements.

ALLIES & ROSS MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION OF NORTHVIEW MIDRISE IFB NO. 2023-40-G-E-P-M ALLIES & ROSS MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION will receive separate sealed bids for the New Construction of the Northview Midrise. The construction work is estimated to begin in November 2024.

The estimated values of the project are in the following ranges General Construction: $7,476,468.00 - $9,291,060.00; Electrical Construction: $1,007,305.00 - $1,251,785.00; Plumbing Construction: $996,562.00 $1,238,435.00; Mechanical Construction: $940,986.00 - $1,169,370.00 Bid Documents will be available on or about Monday, December 18, 2023 and may be obtained from the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh’s webpage, www.hacp.org. Bidders may register on the website and download the bid documents free of charge.

A Virtual Pre-Bid Conference will be held on Thursday, January 4, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. virtually at the following link: Join Zoom Meeting Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83218603686?pwd=fW5zbTp SWjn0IS4jVgKdouPsbRfd72.1 Meeting ID: 832 1860 3686 Password: 907224 Bids will be received at: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) Procurement Department 412 Boulevard of the Allies, 1st Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Attn: Kim Detrick, Director of Procurement until 9:00 a.m. Thursday, January 18, 2024 at which time and place all bids will be received.

Bids will be received at: Allies & Ross Management and Development Corporation will be accepting physical proposals dropped off in person from 8:00 AM until the closing of 9:00 AM on January 18, 2024 at HACP, 412 Boulevard of the Allies, 1st Floor, Pittsburgh PA 15219 Attn: Kim Detrick, Chief Procurement Officer. The bid opening on January 18, 2024 at 9:00AM will be conducted virtually via Zoom at the following link: Join Zoom Meeting Zoom Link https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86212843271?pwd=vA4sp jN3UDYUxm6aSdXE4hz23lsN3e.1 Meeting ID: 862 1284 3271 Passcode: 736575 Copies of bid documents are not available for in person pickup. Bid Documents, including the Bid Forms, Project Manual, and Drawings, may be obtained from the Business Opportunities Section of the HACP website, www.hacp.org.

Prospective Bidders may register as a vendor on the website and download the documents free of charge.

Allies & Ross Management and Development Corporation will be accepting physical proposals dropped off in person on January 18, 2024 from 8:00 AM until the closing of 9:00 AM on January 18, 2024. Bids may also be submitted electronically at the following link: https://www.dropbox.com/request/vEYVz9C3sBQ05xb6BMG4 and can still be mailed via USPS at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 412 Boulevard of the Allies, 6th Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.

ALLIES & ROSS MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION reserves the right to waive any informality in, or reject any and all bids. No bid shall be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days subsequent to the opening of bids without the consent of ALLIES & ROSS MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION. The Contractor will be required to comply with all applicable Equal Employment Opportunity requirements for Federally Assisted Construction Contracts. The Contractor must ensure that employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sexual preference, handicap or national origin.

The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh has revised its website. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and log-in, in order to view and download IFB/RFP documentation.

ALLIES & ROSS MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION AND THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH STRONGLY ENCOURAGES CERTIFIED MINORITY-OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES AND WOMAN-OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES TO RESPOND TO THE SOLICITATION. Additional information may be obtained by contacting Kim Detrick, Director of Procurement at (412) 456-5116 Opt 1.

Caster D. Binion, President & CEO ALLIES & ROSS MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION Allies & Ross Management and Development Corporation 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.

LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT Port Authority of Allegheny County d/b/a Pittsburgh Regional Transit REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL NO. 23-08

Port Authority of Allegheny County d/b/a Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) is requesting proposals for the performance of the following service (“Contract Services”):

Essential Functions: • May maintain a revenue service vehicle or equipment used in revenue service.

• Supervises and coordinates the daily activities of supervisors and administrative support employees involved in maintaining, repairing, and servicing the fleet. Supervises and coordinates the daily activities of employees involved with fleet maintenance and repair, fleet interior and exterior cleaning, assignment of fleet to routes, and maintenance of auxiliary headsigns.

• Assists in implementing and monitoring standardized administrative programs and maintenance activities and procedures. Works with Manager of Maintenance & Service to develop and implement service goals and maintenance performance standards in support of PRT’s goals, objectives, and mission.

• Prepares and analyzes maintenance performance indicators to identify deficiencies; makes recommendations to improve workflow and labor utilization. Evaluates operational delays and organizational structure to determine improved efficiencies.

Job requirements include: • High school diploma or GED. • Associate’s degree or two (2) years of college in transportation, business, vehicle maintenance or directly related field from an accredited college or university. Fleet maintenance experience may be substituted for education on a year-for-year basis.

• Three (3) years’ experience in vehicle maintenance and supervisory experience. No certifications or licenses required.

• Minimum of two (2) years supervisory experience.

• Demonstrated ability in the use of Windows.

• Effective and professional communication skills.

• Ability to work all shifts as assigned by the Manager of Maintenance and Service.

• Valid PA Driver’s License.

Preferred attributes: • Bachelor’s degree in business or related field from an accredited college or university.

• Valid Commercial Driver’s License (Class B), with P endorsement.

• Experience in statistical process control.

• Participative leadership style.

• Demonstrated ability in the use of Microsoft Word and Access.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS WEBSITE SERVICES The work under the proposed Agreement consists of developing, maintaining, hosting and administering an external web page for employee access to general information and links regarding their healthcare and other benefits.

The purpose of the platform is to keep employees informed and engaged in their benefits.

The Agreement will be for a three (3) -year period with the option to extend the term of the Agreement up to 2 additional years at the sole discretion of PRT. A copy of the Request for Proposal (RFP) will be available on or after December 19, 2023 and can be obtained by registering at the PRT’s ebusiness website: http://ebusiness.ridePRT.org and following the directions listed on the website.

Please note that Proposers must register under the ebusiness categories of PSBSPA – Pro Benefit/Wage/Pension, PSITS – Pro-Information Technology, PSSC – Pro Software Consulting for this RFP. Proposers may also register in other categories for any future RFPs issued by PRT. If you have specific questions regarding this RFP, please contact Ms. Deb Norkevicus at (412) 566-5514 or via email DNorkevicus@ridePRT.org.

An Information Meeting for interested parties will be held at 1:30 p.m., prevailing time, January 9, 2024 via Microsoft Teams video conference and/or conference call to answer any questions regarding this RFP. To join by Microsoft Team video conference: • https://bit.ly/47UKaxw To join by Microsoft Teams call-in number: • 412-927-0245, United States, Pittsburgh (Toll) • Conference ID: 288 053 235# Electronic proposals must be both received, and time stamped by a representative of the Procurement Department through PRT’s Ebusiness website at or before 2:00 p.m., prevailing time, January 29, 2024, at http://ebusiness.ridePRT.org. Proposals received or time stamped by a Procurement Department representative through PRT’s Ebusiness website after the advertised time for the submission of proposals shall be non-responsive and therefore ineligible for award. Each Proposer shall be solely responsible for assuring that its proposal is timely received and time stamped in accordance with the requirements herein.

This Contract Services may be funded, in part, by, and subject to certain requirements of, the County of Allegheny and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The proposal process and the performance of the requested services will be in accordance with guidelines and regulations of the FTA “Third Party Contracting Guidelines”, FTA Circular 4220.1F, as amended, and all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

Port Authority of Allegheny County d/b/a Pittsburgh Regional Transit, in compliance with 49 C.F.R., Part 26, as amended, implements positive affirmative action procedures to ensure that all Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (“DBEs”) have the maximum opportunity to participate in the performance of contracts and subcontracts financed, in whole or in part, with federal funds, if any, provided under or for the proposed Agreement.

In this regard, all recipients or contractors shall take all necessary and reasonable steps in accordance with 49 C.F.R., Part 26, to ensure that DBEs have the maximum opportunity to compete for, and perform contracts and subcontracts for, the Contract Services.

Port Authority of Allegheny County d/b/a Pittsburgh Regional Transit, in compliance with 74 Pa.C.S. § 303, as may be amended, also requires that certified Diverse Businesses, (“DBs”) have the maximum opportunity to compete for, and perform contracts and subcontract for, the Contract Services. In this regard, all Proposers, and the Contractor, shall make good faith efforts, in accordance with 74 Pa.C.S. § 303, to ensure that DBs have the maximum opportunity to compete for, and perform contracts and subcontracts for, the Contract Services.

Further, proposers and the Contractor shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, age, disability, national origin, sex, sexual origin, gender identity or status as a parent in the award and performance of contracts or subcontracts for these Contract Services Port Authority of Allegheny County d/b/a Pittsburgh Regional Transit reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.

We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Interested candidates should forward a cover letter (with salary requirements) and resume to: Taylor McBride Employment Department 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 TMcBride@RidePRT.org EOE

Essential Functions: • Develop and provide leadership, direction, administration, and oversight to the asset management, grants, service and capital planning, and capital engineering and system planning departments.

• Collaborate with the CEO to make recommendations to the Board of Directors on short and long-range planning and development matters to include engineering and construction projects, systems integration, asset management, and the development of short term and long-term capital plans and programs.

• Work closely with the executive management team to establish, manage and implement a short and long-term strategic direction for the organization.

• Partner with finance, engineering, operations and other relevant departments to ensure that plans and designs meet technical specifications and adequate funding is secured for projects selected for implementation.

Job requirements include: • Bachelor’s degree in planning, engineering, public administration, operations management, construction, computer engineering or related field from an accredited college or university.

• Minimum nine (9) years’ experience in project management, planning or related field. No certifications or licenses required.

• Experience should include at least one year in a senior project management role with responsibility for organizing, directing, and managing project teams.

• Demonstrated experience in projects that cross multiple departments and organizations and are cross-functional in nature, with responsibility for managing expectations, controlling costs and risk, and driving for results in a collaborative approach.

• Ability to demonstrate initiative, exercise good judgment, and exhibit strong fiscal responsibility.

• Demonstrated ability in use of Windows and Microsoft Office.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Valid driver’s license.

• Available 24/7 if needed.

Preferred attributes: • Master’s degree in business, engineering, or related field with executive experience and knowledge of project/program management from an accredited college or university.

• Experience in the transit industry.

We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Interested candidates should forward a cover letter (with salary requirements) and resume to:

Inez Colon Employment Department 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 IColon@RidePRT.org EOE

Essential Functions: • Directs the activities of the Division’s directors, managers, and their subordinate supervisory staff. Conducts annual performance reviews and recommends and initiates appropriate personnel action.

• Oversees the fiscal management activities to ensure cost-effective utilization of financial resources, proper accounting and reporting of the PRT’s finances and physical assets, proper investment and safeguarding of funds, and compliance with applicable rules, policies, and legal requirements. Work closely with the executive management team to establish, manage and implement a short and long-term strategic direction for the organization.

• Develops plans to meet unexpected situations; new developments and changes in the business environment; prepares for emergencies; anticipates events; understand the factors and conditions affecting the organization and responds appropriately to ensure proper cash flow and fiscal responsibility.

Job requirements include: • Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or related field.

• Minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible accounting or finance experience that includes five (5) years of experience in the administration of complex financial departments or projects in a large public or private organization.

• Minimum of five (5) years management experience.

• Eff ect ive and pr of essional communication skills.

• Valid driver’s license.

• Availability for overnight travel.

• Ability to coordinate various complex work assignments on short notice.

• Ability to function in a rapidly changing work environment.

• Ability to interpret, analyze and create complex federal and state funding formulas.

• Demonstrated ability in the use of Windows, and Microsoft Word and Excel. Proficient in the use of Port Authority’s PeopleSoft Financial Programs.

Preferred attributes: • Master’s degree in business.

• Certified Public Accountant.

• Familiarity with transit or transportation system activities and functions.

We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Interested candidates should forward a cover letter (with salary requirements) and resume to: Inez Colon Employment Department 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 IColon@RidePRT.org EOE

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America’s Best Weekly 315 East Carson Street Pittsburgh, PA 15219

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412-481-8302 Ext. 134 E-mail: ads@newpittsburghcourier. com Deadline/Closing/Cancellation Schedule for copy, corrections, and cancellations: Friday noon preceding Wednesday publication