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McKeesport’s Swin Cash gets the Hall-of-Fame call Hometown star to be inducted into Pro Basketball Hall of Fame in September by Rob Taylor Jr. Courier Staff Writer
SWIN CASH won a WPIAL title at McKeesport Area High School, two national championships in college at UConn, three WNBA titles and two Olympic Gold medals. (Photo by J.L. Martello)
Nearly every mother reading this article has changed their child’s diaper. But for Swin Cash, the heart and soul of McKeesport who went on to become one of the most celebrated women’s basketball players in American history, she was changing her son’s diaper on March 31 when she got “the call.” “This is John Doleva at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, is this Miss Cash?” “This is,” Cash replied, son in hand. “John, can you give me one second, I’m finishing
changing my son’s diaper...” Doleva couldn’t believe it. “You’re changing your son’s diaper? What’s your son’s name?” “His name is Syer,” Cash responded. “Oh, well you tell him that his mother is a Hall-of-Famer.” And with those words, it was official. Swin Cash (whose name is now Swin Cash Canal) was elected to the Pro Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2022, where her name, likeness and achievements will be forever embalmed in basketball lore, even with the men. She was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, located in Knoxville, Tenn., in 2021. “So happy to make this call,
congratulations to you,” continued Doleva, the president and CEO of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. “Well deserved, your overall career has been stellar, and you are a member of the class of 2022.” Cash, 42, is currently the New Orleans Pelicans Vice President of Basketball Operations and Player Development. Prior to the position with the Pelicans, she was Director of Franchise Development for the WNBA’s New York Liberty after her retirement to end the 2016 season. Regarded as one of the WNSEE CASH A8
Ketanji Brown Jackson makes history Pittsburghers celebrate first Black woman on Supreme Court by Marcia Liggett For New Pittsburgh Courier
Pittsburgh, the “City of Champions,” joined the rest of the nation in celebrating a monumental moment in American history as Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson became the first Black woman to earn a seat on the U.S. Supreme Court. On Thursday, April 7, Jackson, who vowed to apply the law “without fear or favor,” was confirmed by the Senate in a 53-47 vote with all 50 members of the Democratic caucus and three Republicans (Sens. Susan Collins of Maine, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Mitt Romney of Utah). She’ll become the Court’s 116th justice. Jackson is the only federal public defender to sit for the lifetime appointment. She joins legal legends, Justices Thurgood Mar-
shall and Clarence Thomas, as the only Black justices to have achieved this colossal feat. Having nominated Jackson, President Joe Biden expressed: “Judge Jackson’s confirmation was a historic moment for our nation. We’ve taken another step toward making our highest court reflect the diversity of America. She will be an incredible Justice, and I was honored to share this moment with her.” Pittsburghers are still abuzz over the recent election of its first Black mayor, Ed Gainey, who celebrated Jackson’s confirmation: “The confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson is not only historic, but another significant step forward in shattering the proverbial glass ceiling. Her SEE JACKSON A5
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KETANJI BROWN JACKSON is celebrated at the White House the day after her historic confirmation to the U.S. Supreme Court. (AP Photo)
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This Week In Black History A Courier Staple • APRIL 13
1873—The Colfax Massacre takes place in Grant Parish, La. Still smarting from the loss of the Civil War and enraged by the political powers being given Blacks during Reconstruction, a White paramilitary terrorist group known as the White League set out to restore White rule in Louisiana. The spark was a disputed election and a confrontation near the Colfax courthouse between a 60-member sparsely armed Black militia and nearly 300 heavily armed members of the White League. The Blacks took refuge in the courthouse and a gun battle rages for hours leaving three Whites dead. Then the Whites convinced an elderly
Black man to sneak into the courthouse and set it afire. As the Blacks escaped the flames, they were either shot or arrested. But even those arrested were later killed. Before the day was over, somewhere between 60 and 100 Blacks were massacred. 1946—R&B great Al Green is born in Forest City, Ark. Many considered Green the greatest male R&B singer of the 1970s. Among his greatest hits were “Tired of Being Alone,” “I’m Still in Love with You” and “Let’s Stay Together.” • APRIL 14 1865—President Abraham Lincoln is shot and critically wounded at Ford’s Theatre in Washington, D.C., by John
Wilkes Booth. Lincoln would linger for several hours, but died at 7:22 a.m. the following day, April 15. A debate still rages among historians as to how broad based the conspiracy was to assassinate Lincoln. Regardless, it is clear that Booth was a racist who supported slavery and the South during the Civil War. Originally, he was part of a plot to kidnap Lincoln and hold him in exchange for captured Confederate soldiers. But on April 9, 1865, Confederate troops under Robert E. Lee surrendered to Gen. Ulysses S. Grant at Appomattox. Later that day, Lincoln gave a speech suggesting that the ex-slaves be given the right to vote. The speech infuriated Booth
and thus the plot to kidnap Lincoln was converted into a plot to assassinate him. Booth escaped capture for 12 days. But on April 26, 1865 he was cornered by federal forces and shot and killed during a gun battle. Four of his fellow conspirators, including one woman, were tried and hanged. The assassination of Lincoln changed the course of history for Blacks. While Lincoln was not as great a supporter of Black rights as he has often been portrayed, he was a much greater supporter than the man who replaced him in office—Vice President Andrew Johnson. Johnson actually sympathized with the Southern slave-owning aristocracy and opposed most civil and
virtually all voting rights for Blacks. The pro-Black legislation of the Reconstruction period was normally passed over his objection or veto. Nevertheless, Johnson is one of the primary reasons the Reconstruction period only lasted 12 years. He helped lay the foundation for the Jim Crow period beginning around 1880 during which time Black political and civil rights were systematically taken away. This probably would not have happened if Lincoln had not been assassinated.
• APRIL 15
1899—Asa Phillip Randolph, organizer of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, was born in Crescent City, Fla. Randolph brought the power of unionism to Black America. He also used his position as the nation’s No. 1 Black union leader to become one of the major civil rights leaders of his era. More than anyone else, it was Randolph who organized the historic March on Washington during which Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous “I Have A Dream” speech. Ironically, as a young man Randolph left Florida and moved to New York to become an actor. Instead, he became involved with the Socialist Party and helped develop a magazine known as The Messenger. The editorial slant of the magazine describes Randolph as “midway between the cautious elitism of the NAACP and the utopian populism of Marcus Garvey.” Randolph died May 16, 1979. 1922—Harold Washington, the first Black and 42nd mayor of Chicago, is born in Chicago. • APRIL 16 1862—President Abraham Lincoln signs a bill ending slavery in Washington, D.C. Approximately nine months later he would issue the Emancipation Proclamation which had a highly emotional and symbolic impact but actually freed very few slaves when it was first pronounced. The Proclamation targeted slaves in the South. But at the time, Lincoln had virtually no control over the rebellious slave-owning Southern states. 1929—The now little known, but one of the grandest voices in African-American history is born on this day in Leesburg, Ga.—Roy Hamilton. Hamilton’s baritone voice made him a hit during the 1950s. His most memorable songs were “Unchained Melody” and “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” 1947—Basketball great
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Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is born Lewis Alcindor in New York City. His more than seven-foot frame would make him a dominant player in professional basketball. 2010—The National Center for Health Statistics releases a report showing that a whopping 72.3 percent of Black babies are born to unmarried women. The same report revealed that Hispanic women had the highest birthrate in the nation (98.6 births per 1,000 women) followed by Asian American women (71.4); Black women (71.2) and White women (59.6). • APRIL 17 1872—Activist and fiery journalist William Monroe Trotter is born on this day in Boston, Mass. A close friend of W.E.B. Du Bois, Trotter was one of the most militant Black leaders of the late 1800s and early 1900s. He helped found the Niagara Movement, which led to the establishment of the NAACP but then refused to join, claiming the group was too moderate and elitist. He was also a leading opponent of the accommodating policies of Booker T. Washington. Trotter’s primary vehicle of expression was his newspaper—the Boston Guardian. • APRIL 18 1818—Military leader Andrew Jackson (later president) leads the defeat of a force of Indians and Blacks at the Battle of Suwanee, bringing an end to the First Seminole War. The Seminoles had been the target of a government military campaign because they possessed lands, which Whites in Florida greatly desired, and because they had provided safe haven for escaped slaves. Indeed, Blacks such as John Horse would become major Seminole leaders. It would take at least two more major military campaigns before the Seminoles and their Black allies lost possession of those lands. 1977—Alex Haley, author of “Roots,” is awarded the Pulitzer Prize. • APRIL 19 1910—The National Urban League is formed in New York City. It was born out of a merger of the National League for the Protection of Colored Women, National League on Urban Conditions among Negroes and remnants of the Niagara Movement which had earlier help found the NAACP. Among the leading organizers were Ruth Standish Baldwin and George Edmund Haynes. The organization was founded in part to be more focused on economic issues affecting Blacks than the NAACP. Today, it is generally considered the nation’s second most powerful civil rights organization after the NAACP. 1971—Walter Fauntroy becomes the first elected Congressional representative from the predominantly Black District of Columbia since Reconstruction. However, Fauntroy did not have voting rights. Indeed, down to this day, the Congressional Representative from Washington, D.C., is still not allowed to vote on major legislation. This bar was once common among capitol cities. But today, America stands virtually alone among major nations in barring the residents of its capitol city from having a voting representative in its national legislature. Critics argue that the bar continues because the city is majority African-American. 1978—Max Robinson becomes the first African-American anchor of a major network television news program when he begins co-anchoring ABC nightly news from Chicago. The Richmond, Va., native died of AIDS in Washington, D.C., on Dec. 20, 1988.
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Paige Frank named ‘Youth of the Year’ by Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pa. Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania (BGCWPA) held their annual Youth of the Year competition, the regional level of the national Boys & Girls Clubs of America award contest, and named their finalist; Quaker Valley High School junior Paige Frank, the New Pittsburgh Courier has learned.
my. Frank, 16, has been involved with BGCWPA programs since the summer before her freshman year of high school when she started attending the PPG Artificial Intelligence Pathways Institute summer camp, part of BGCWPA’s STEM programming. She recently co-led an app design team to win the local CGI
putting that brilliance to work in a way that both builds her skills and benefits others,” said BGCWPA President & CEO Lisa Abel-Palmieri. “At BGCWPA, we invite youth into the adventure of learning so they can dream big and work toward their goals with guidance from supportive adults and innovative programs. Paige is
“My overarching goal for this entity is to encourage the next generation of women to pursue a career in any area of STEM. I want to primarily focus on younger girls to give them a vision of who they can be.” “Youth of the Year” is the signature effort of Boys & Girls Clubs from the local to national level, to foster a new generation of leaders, fully prepared to live and lead in a diverse, global and integrated world econo-
I.T. Girl Challenge last May by creating an app that made it possible for students to connect with one another for academic support during the pandemic and beyond. “We are proud of Paige for her brilliance and for
a great example of that and she will make an excellent representative for BGCWPA as she moves to the state level of the competition.” Frank hopes to attend Carnegie Mellon University to pursue a degree in
computer science. STEM fields have been historically underrepresented by women and she has plans to launch a nonprofit entity called Girls Closing the Gap. Her vision is a program similar to Girl Scouts but with a STEM focus. She wants to support and encourage girls to design and sell useful apps instead of cookies to fund their participation in computer science and robotics competitions, for example. “My overarching goal for this entity is to encourage the next generation of women to pursue a career in any area of STEM,” said Frank. “I want to primarily focus on younger girls to give them a vision of who they can be.” Frank was chosen because of her accomplishments and industrious, entrepreneurial spirit, but also because of her character. Her aim is not only to succeed but to strengthen her community and encourage others, helping them to see their vision through and succeed.
PAIGE FRANK
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Ketanji Brown Jackson makes history BROWN FROM A1
confirmation represents a milestone opportunity for our democracy to acknowledge the leadership Black women have always exhibited.” Pennsylvania state Rep. Summer Lee tweeted: “It’s official: Ketanji Brown Jackson is going to be the first Black woman on the Supreme Court. This is remarkable! Yes, she was forced to overcome barriers that no others had to, but today we’re a step closer towards affirming that Black women, girls, & femmes belong everywhere.” Indeed, Black women in Pittsburgh are sharing the excitement, recognizing the significance of this historic moment. Brenda King, 79, a lifelong resident of Pittsburgh, expressed her delight to the New Pittsburgh Courier: “Justice Jackson deserves this appointment. From a very early childhood, she has prepared herself for this moment. Her credentials and career speak for themselves. She’s a woman of strength, integrity, conviction and courage; one who gratefully acknowledges the shoulders upon which she stands. A woman of superior character, she has meticulously upheld the duties of any office she has sworn to sustain. As a Supreme Court justice, she affirms that she will continue to execute fair and honest judgement based on her understanding of the U.S. Constitution. I’m so pleased that President Biden had the wisdom, and yes, even the courage to place her in
nomination for the highest office in the land in the Supreme Court.” LaTosha Harris, 40, of Sheraden, discussed the tremendous personal impact Jackson’s nomination has for her own family: “As a Black woman who was just afforded the right to vote less than 100 years ago, the progress that we have made not only through Justice Brown Jackson as a person, but just as a whole, makes me feel proud and motivated. The amount of joy I had listening to the confirmation hearings, listening to her recommendations, especially those that came from a White male, shows the progress we have made. Yet on the counter side, it shows the progress that we have left to make. As a mother of a daughter studying criminology at an HBCU, it gives me hope that her efforts will not be in vain, that someone will see her and accept her as an equal. We’ve made progress but we still have a way to go. Hopefully Justice Brown Jackson’s nomination and confirmation will allow progress to be made in other areas where it hasn’t even reached the surface yet.” Senator Bob Casey, a Democrat from Pennsylvania, was instrumental in bringing this accomplishment to fruition. “Today is a good day for America,” he said on April 7. “Judge Jackson’s confirmation to the Supreme Court is an inspiration for future generations, particularly young Black women and girls. Make no mistake, we have a
long way to go to make our institutions reflect the diversity of our nation. For too long, we’ve come up short. But today, we took an historic step forward. I was honored to vote to confirm Judge Jackson to our highest court and I have no doubt she will help realize our highest ideal of equal justice under the law.” Jackson’s professional trek also inspires future politicians, demonstrating the importance of Black attorneys practicing law to create equality within the legal system. Jerry Dickinson, candidate for Congress in Pennsylvania’s 12th district, emphasized that “as an African American civil rights lawyer, a constitutional law professor, and a father to two young Black girls, I am overwhelmed with pride, and I am hopeful that this achievement will inspire future generations of Black and brown children to aspire for careers at the highest levels of government. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson’s ascension to the highest court in the United States represents a major step towards the goal of a more perfect union. Throughout her life, she has traversed the forces of hatred and bigotry to accomplish the improbable, never failing to exercise the integrity and impartiality her work requires.” Celebrities around the country turned to Twitter to celebrate and congratulate Jackson. R&B vocalist John Legend’s congratulatory tweet described Jackson’s accomplishment as “historic”
and a “well-deserved ascension to our nation’s highest court.” Jennifer Hudson said that “history was made today! Ketanji Brown Jackson, the first Black woman to sit on the Supreme Court! Let’s celebrate!!!” Actor Viola Davis concurred, adding, “Congratulations Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson!!! You have made history!” During a heartfelt acceptance speech at the White House on Friday, April 9, the 51-year-old Jackson, accompanied by President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, addressed the public: “I have dedicated my career to public service because I love this country and our constitution, and the rights that make us free.” Jackson, who will take her seat on the Court when Justice Stephen Breyer retires in September, expressed her sincere gratitude to those who have continued to support her on this journey, especially the youth. “The notes that I’ve received from children are particularly cute and especially meaningful because more than anything, they speak directly to the hope and promise of America. It has taken 232 years and 115 prior appointments for a Black woman to be selected to serve on the Supreme Court of the United States – but we’ve made it! We’ve made it, all of us! And our children are telling me that they see now more than ever that here in America, anything is possible.”
LONGTIME PITTSBURGH RESIDENT BRENDA KING called Ketanji Brown Jackson a “woman of strength, integrity, conviction and courage; one who gratefully acknowledges the shoulders upon which she stands.”
LATOSHA HARRIS, of Sheraden, said that “the progress that we have made not only through Justice Brown Jackson as a person, but just as a whole, makes me feel proud and motivated.”
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HEALTH
APRIL 13-19, 2022 NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Take Charge Of Your Health Today. Be Informed. Be Involved.
CARLOS T. CARTER
Cannabis use and youth It’s important to note that while cannabis can have positive effects medicinally for large portions of the population, it can negatively impact youth who use and abuse it. We spoke with Carlos T. Carter, President and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh about his thoughts on cannabis use and young people. What are your thoughts on the rising use of cannabis? I know there are a lot of positive medicinal effects that can help people manage pain, but it’s alarming that cannabis use impacts youth in such negative ways. It concerns me that it impacts their brain development and that it makes mental health challenges worse. When users seek drugs to self-medicate, they are not addressing their under-lying problems and they tend to get worse. It’s a vicious cycle. I’m concerned that young people don’t realize the dangers of fentanyl and other substances some marijuana is laced with, that could be putting their lives in jeopardy. Quite literally, they could die from taking that hit. It’s not worth it. It also concerns me that youth don’t understand that marijuana is still illegal in Pennsylvania. How do you think cannabis use and the pandemic have intersected in our Black communities? We all know the pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on Black and other marginalized communities. Stress and the overwhelming burden of the pandemic on families drives people to seek out marijuana to deal with anxiety. They feel they need it to cope. People are stressed out. Increased poverty, increased isolation has all led to people seeking ways to self-medicate. Whether warranted or not, Black youth are already at a higher risk of police encounters. Participating in cannabis use only adds additional targets to them and puts them at an increased risk of being convicted and incarcerated. What are some questions you have for future research on cannabis use and youth? What is driving youth to use? Is it ease of use, influencers? Are they feeling pressured? First and foremost, we need to truly understand why our youth are using cannabis. Then we can work with them to develop healthier alternatives. Important note: According to marijuanaandthelaw.com, possession of small amounts of marijuana is decriminalized in certain cities throughout the state of Pennsylvania, but recreational use remains illegal. Residents with qualifying conditions must obtain a medical cannabis ID card to purchase and use medical marijuana. The possession limit for patients is a 30-day supply. Home cultivation for any purpose is a felony.
No healthy relationship between Cannabis and young Black people More young people are using cannabis than ever before, which is cause for concern in the Black community. Black people have been and continue to be impacted by drugs and racial bias. For example: * Black neighborhoods are targeted with more tobacco ads than other neighborhoods. * When it comes to pregnancy and drug testing, Black mothers are more likely to be tested and judged unfit than White mothers. * According to the ACLU, “…despite roughly equal usage rates, Blacks are 3.73 times more likely than Whites to be arrested for cannabis.” How much has cannabis use increased? In two studies by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry: * Over 3 million people, ages 12-17, used cannabis in the past year. * In the 18-22-year-old group, cannabis use is at a 35-year high. * More youth reported using cannabis than any other illicit drug. Why the increase among young people? * Cannabis is available and affordable illegally in neighborhoods, and legally with a medical cannabis card. * Cannabis is more potent now than ever before — and can be smoked, vaped, applied to the skin as oil, and digested in beverages, candy and baked goods. That means it’s easier to become dependent on it. * Cannabis is legal in many states, which may give it more credibility. * Some celebrity and social media influencers endorse cannabis, which may make it more main-
stream. * Cannabis is often thought of as “natural” and not truly harmful. As more states legalize cannabis, it will still be illegal for anyone under 21. Why? Because, like alcohol, cannabis can harm developing brains. What does the research show? Short-term cannabis use may lead to problems in school, trouble remembering things, aggressive actions, car accidents, and risky sexual behavior. It can also interfere with prescription drugs. If a user has mental health conditions, cannabis may make them worse. This includes mood changes and thoughts about suicide. For a small percentage of users, it can also increase the risk of losing touch with the real world. Long-term effects may lead to breathing problems, a drop in the desire to go to school or hold a job, and severe mental health problems — especially if a user has been diagnosed with mood disorders, like depression, or has a history of, or a family history of, schizophrenia. Long-term use can also lead to addiction. The CDC estimates about 30% of cannabis users have a cannabis use disorder. This can look a lot like alcohol addiction, which takes control of a person’s life and causes withdrawal symptoms. Dr. Natacha DeGenna, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Epidemiology at the University of Pittsburgh studies cannabis and tobacco use in young people. In one study, Dr. DeGenna and her colleagues are asking for input from young, pregnant women, including a large number who identify as Black or biracial. “Many of the women use cannabis during pregnancy and they are helping us understand why they do. They are also allowing us to
DR. NATACHA DEGENNA study what happens to their babies’ development” she explains. This study is based on older research that has shown long-term effects of prenatal marijuana exposure. One of the key findings? When babies were exposed to cannabis during pregnancy, they were more likely to be born with a lower birth weight. They were also more likely to have childhood behavior problems and use cannabis themselves as teenagers. “We studied these babies as they grew up,” says Dr. DeGenna. We checked in with them at ages 14, 16, and 22. What we found was that using cannabis before you’re 15 places you at a greater risk of memory loss. It’s pretty safe to say it’s not a good idea to use until your brain is finished developing (about age 25 on average).” Is there ever a good time to use? “Children should not use cannabis mainly because it impacts their brain development, among other serious health concerns,” says Dr. DeGenna. Even at age 25, there are big health risks to think about. “Is there a way for people 25 and older to have a healthy relationship with cannabis?” asks Dr. DeGenna. “It depends.” What should you consider if —
HUMAN BRAIN MADE OF MARIJUANA LEAVES (GETTY IMAGES STOCK PHOTO)
and before — you decide to use? Dr DeGenna suggests people think carefully about using cannabis — before they light up. “If you’re thinking about it, consider the risks vs the benefits first,” she explains. For example: * Have you ever had problems with depression or anxiety - or have a family history of mood disorders? * Are you pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant? * Are you taking other prescription drugs that could interact with cannabis? * Are you using cannabis in a way that adds to your life rather than takes away from it? Are you smoking weed occasionally with friends, for example, vs smoking it alone because you’re sad or angry? * Are you using it in a way that doesn’t put you or others at risk? For example, smoking weed and driving or going to work? * Is using weed your decision — not someone else’s? * Do you know and understand what weed can do to you when you smoke, vape, drink, and/or eat it? That includes health, legal, and personal risks. * What effect does your use of cannabis have on other people – those you know and those you don’t? “Using cannabis is a serious decision,” says Dr. DeGenna. “The goal is to make a well-informed choice. Weigh the pros and cons, but please consider not using it until you’re at least 25.” She continues, “If you’re younger than 25 and using now – or if you’re pregnant and using — consider cutting back with a goal of quitting. Even a small decrease can have a positive impact on your health and your baby’s development.”
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Four Pittsburghers named 2022 Guggenheim Fellows, including two Pitt professors Two University of Pittsburgh professors in the Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences have been named 2022 Guggenheim Fellows. Historian Keisha N. Blain, an associate professor in the Department of History, and poet Yona Harvey, an associate professor in the Department of English, are among 180 individuals chosen from nearly 2,500 applicants for the prestigious award, which recognizes “prior achievement and exceptional promise” among its broad selection of scientists, writers and artists across 51 fields of expertise. Also chosen for the award were Pittsburghers Alisha Wormsley (artist/filmmaker), and Ed Paner (photographer). The Guggenheim signifies excellence, thought leadership and innovation of craft among its recipients. Grants from the fellowship vary between
$35,000 and $45,000 to use as the recipients choose. Blain is an accomplished historian and writer focusing on African American history, the modern African diaspora and women’s and gender studies. A two-term former president of the African American Intellectual History Society, Blain has received wide praise for her writing: her book “Set the World on Fire” won the 2019 Darlene Clark Hine Award from the Organization of American Historians, and her recent book “Until I am Free: Fannie Lou Hamer’s Enduring Message to America” was recognized by Smithsonian Magazine as among the best history books of 2021. “Four Hundred Souls: A Community History of African America, 16192019,” which she co-edited with Ibram X. Kendi, garnered significant media attention and debuted
at No. 1 on The New York Times Best Sellers list. In addition to her research and book writing, Blain holds fellowships at New America, Harvard University’s Carr Center for Human Rights and the Institute for Advanced Studies, as well as being an opinion columnist for MSNBC. Blain has been on the faculty at Pitt since 2017, having received a bachelor’s of history and Africana studies from Binghamton University and her doctorate in history from Princeton University. Harvey is the author of the poetry collections “You Don’t Have to Go to Mars for Love,” which won the Believer Book Award for Poetry and “Hemming the Water,” winner of the Kate Tufts Discovery Award. She co-wrote with professor and essayist Roxane Gay “Marvel’s World of Wakanda” and co-wrote with author and MacArthur “genius
YONA HARVEY
ALISHA WORMSLEY
KEISHA N. BLAIN
grant” winner Ta-Nehisi Coates “Black Panther & the Crew.” She has also worked with teenagers writing about mental health issues in collaboration with Creative Nonfiction magazine. In addition, she is the recipient of the inaugural Lucille Clifton Legacy Award in poetry from St. Mary’s College of Maryland. Harvey earned her undergraduate degree from Howard University, a Master of Fine Arts from The Ohio State University, and a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of Pittsburgh. “I’m honored. I’m thrilled. I think I’ve accepted it as real now,” Harvey wrote on Twitter in reaction to the announcement. “Congratulations to all Fellows. Thank you thank you thank you.” Wormsley describes her work as pertaining to “collective memory and the synchronicity of time, specifically through the stories of women of color.” Wormsley has an MFA in Film and Video from Bard College and was awarded the Postdoctoral Research fellowship in art at Carnegie Mellon University. Panar is the co-founder of Spaces Corners, a photo-book gallery and working space on the North Side. Created and initially funded in 1925 by Senator
Simon and Olga Guggenheim in memory of their son John Simon Guggenheim, the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation has sought since its inception to “further the development of
scholars and artists by assisting them to engage in research in any field of knowledge and creation in any of the arts, under the freest possible conditions.”
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McKeesport’s Swin Cash gets the Hall-of-Fame call CASH FROM A1
BA’s best players ever, Cash won three WNBA titles, two All-Star Game MVPs, and two Olympic
Gold medals. She was named to the WNBA’s 20th and 25th Anniversary Teams. Cash played for 15 seasons in the WNBA after starring for the
University of Connecticut Huskies, winning national titles there in 2000 and 2002. She was the No. 2 pick by the Detroit Shock in the 2002 WNBA
SWIN CASH, right, shown here with the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh’s Caster Binion, center, and Michelle Sandidge. (Photo by Courier photographer J.L. Martello) Draft, bested only by her UConn teammate, Sue Bird. Cash won WNBA titles in 2003 and 2006 with the Shock, then was traded to the Seattle Storm in 2008 where she won another title (2010) with Bird. Cash later played with Chicago, Atlanta and the Liberty. When she retired, she was just the second player in league history to have 5,000 points, 2,000 rebounds and 1,000 assists. In all the cities Cash has called home, no other place in the world
can claim her like McKeesport. Cash has continuously spoken fondly of her hometown, the numerous times over the years she’s returned to help local youth through her “Cash for Kids” organization, or, like in 2004, when she helped pass food out to residents while her Detroit Shock played an exhibition game in Pittsburgh. “I think there’s an opportunity for her to be even more known off the court than on the court. There’s no one more competitive than her, with
the drive that she has of playing at a certain level,” said Bill Laimbeer to ESPN. Laimbeer was Cash’s head coach in Detroit. It was Cash’s superb abilities on the outdoor and indoor basketball courts in McKeesport that brought her all the attention. A stunningly impressive freshman at McKeesport Area High School in 1994, culminating with an epic performance in the 1998 WPIAL title game against SEE CASH A9
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Swin Cash headed for Pro Basketball Hall of Fame CASH FROM A8
North Allegheny. She scored 40 points, chased down 21 rebounds and blocked 10 shots for the McKeesport Tigers’ 6952 win at Pitt’s Fitzgerald Field House. If you happened to be at that game, it’s a performance you’ll never forget. But, as Laimbeer predicted, her reach is being felt now by her offthe-court activities. The mentorship, the leadership, being a wife and mother, being a role model for all young wom-
en, but especially young Black women. In an interview with the New Pittsburgh Courier in 2019, Cash discussed how she always reminds young people to “cross that bridge,” even when the going gets tough. Being from the city of bridges, Cash told the Courier moments after walking over one of Pittsburgh’s three “sister bridges”: “One of the things that kept coming to my mind is that life is like a bridge. You start out on one side, you never know what obstacles
SWIN CASH, a two-time national champion at UConn.
and things are on that side, but you’re always trying to push to get to the other side. And I think my life has been like that.” Cash grew up in low-income housing in McKeesport. She told the Courier she understands what many African American youth are facing in today’s world. It’s a never-give-up, “cross that bridge” attitude you have to have, she said. “You’re always on one side trying to get to the other side, so what work are you putting in?”
Cash said. “Pittsburgh has so many bridges, so as I kept walking I kept thinking, you’re always going to come to a situation where there’s a bridge in your life and you can make the decision, either fight to get over it, or are you going to stay put? I was always a fighter. I always used people’s negative, or motivation of why I couldn’t achieve something, to do it.”
SWIN CASH also played for Team USA in the Olympics.
SWIN CASH, homecoming queen at McKeesport Area High School SWIN CASH will be inducted into the Pro Basketball Hall of Fame the weekend of Sept. 9-10. in the late ‘90s.
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LEADER OF SEWICKLEY ACADEMY SPEAKS Dr. Ashley Birtwell contends diversity, inclusion is of paramount importance at Sewickley Academy by Rob Taylor Jr. Courier Staff Writer
What do the words “Sewickley Academy” mean to you? Do they mean “prestigious school” with notable alumni like state Rep. Valerie Gaydos, who currently represents the 44th House District, which includes Sewickley? Or do they mean “a place with a diversity and inclusion problem,” which, according to some of the school’s seniors, needs some immediate fixing? Sewickley Academy, the oldest co-ed independent
school in the Pittsburgh region, has been in the news in the past weeks —police were called to the school over perceived safety concerns following a group of students and their parents demanding to deliver a petition to the head of school, Dr. Ashley Birtwell, outlining changes they wanted to see at the school; and a student-led protest was held near school grounds the following day, March 4, demanding that issues related to diversity and inclusion at the school be addressed. A few students there held signs that read: “Whose voices are being heard?” and
“You looked Black students in the eye and said, ‘Call the police.’” After a few weeks of disappearing from the local news scene, on Friday, April 1, the New Pittsburgh Courier spoke exclusively with Dr. Birtwell, who leads Sewickley Academy’s approximately 530 students in PreK12, 34 percent of whom identify as students of color. Dr. Birtwell said she held meetings in the days after the March 4 protest with the high school’s seniors, the high school’s underclassmen, and a meeting with the “core group” of seniors (and their parents) most
closely tied to starting the petition, which had garnered more than 100 student signatures. The petition from the “core group of students” demanded primarily that they would be more involved in the hiring of a new Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Social Justice director, monthly meetings between students, administrators and the school’s board, and removing a new policy in the student handbook which allowed Sewickley Academy to discipline students who criticized the school’s decisions. “We’re a real community and that’s OK that sometimes we’re going to have disagreements and sometimes kids are going to express that in a variety of ways,” Dr. Birtwell told the Courier. “And that’s all part of the growing up, the development process. What I view my role as an administrator is helping kids to learn constructive conflict res- DR. ASHLEY BIRTWELL is Head of School at Sewickley Academy. olution techniques. How do we come together so we can have that open sions had been made by and she told the students discourse. And it’s OK to Sewickley Academy after “that I’d be happy to pass disagree; what we need the initial meetings be- along that feedback (conto do is treat each other tween the students and cerning contents in the with kindness, respect, Dr. Birtwell, she said that student handbook) to the honor and come together there is already a student (school’s) legal review as one community so that representative and par- team.” Dr. Birtwell said she we build a really wonder- ent representative on the committee to help select ful school for the future.” SEE SEWICKLEY A11 When asked if any deci- the next DEISJ director,
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looks forward to “continuing conversations with the students. It’s important that they feel listened to, they feel heard and we continue that open dialogue.” However, Dr. Birtwell, who attended Sewickley Academy from the seventh through tenth grade, acknowledged her school’s perception problem. “If I’m going to be totally honest, I’m concerned that some of the recent media coverage that we’ve had will harm my ability to recruit and attract the best students in our region, and especially students of color,” she told the Courier exclusively. “My concern is that they will have concerns that we aren’t a welcoming and inclusive school. And that’s quite the contrary. The fact that our FAME (Fund for the Advancement of Minorities through Education) students, for instance, are eager to come back...I just hope people give us the chance to spend time on campus.” FAME’s executive director, Darryl T. Wiley, announced on Feb. 17 that the organization had suspended its partnership with Sewickley Academy for the 2022-23
APRIL 13-19, 2022
Sunday Mass 11 AM Rev. Thomas J. Burke- Pastor Rev. C. Matthew HawkinsParochial Vicar Rev. David H. TaylorSenior Parochial Vicar. www.sbtmparishpgh.com
East Liberty Presbyterian Church Rev. Dr. Randy Bush, Senior Pastor 412-441-3800
Worship in person or Online on Facebook/YouTube www.ELPC.church Journey Worship..........8:45am Sanctuary Worship.......11:00 a.m. Taize -Wednesdays.........7:00 p.m.
school year. FAME had questions about the “direction” the school was heading after the terminations of the school’s DEISJ director, LaVern Burton, and its director of admissions and financial aid, Douglass Leek, in July 2021. Burton and Leek are African American. Burton filed a federal lawsuit against the school a week after he was fired, alleging race discrimination and breach of contract. Sewickley Academy settled
ANTHONY WILES, now a senior at Sewickley Academy.
with Burton in October 2021. Terms were not disclosed. FAME helps Black students pay some of the tuition to attend schools like Sewickley Academy, The Ellis School, Winchester Thurston, The Kiski School and Shady Side Academy. Two “FAME students” are graduating this year from Sewickley Academy, and four other FAME students will continue to attend Sewickley Academy with no change in FAME’s support. Speaking of financial support, Dr. Birtwell was quick to point out to the Courier that she has substantially increased scholarship amounts as a whole in her first full year as head of school. In institutional, or needbased aid, “we’ll be giving out five million additional dollars” for students, she said. And for new students in grades six through nine, “I tripled the amount of merit scholarships that we give out on an annual basis,” Dr. Birtwell said. “Sewickley Academy has been committed to diversity on our campus, and we continuously are striving to continue that commitment and stay at the cutting edge and being a welcoming and inclusive campus for all of our students,” Dr. Birtwell added. “The fact that I increased by such substantial amounts all of our forms of financial aid this year speaks volumes to the fact that I’m try-
MILDRED NASH Mildred Nash a long time Sewickley resident passed away, February 25, 2022 at the age of 94. She was born in Duquesne, PA on November 21, 1927, the 2nd of 12 children born to the late Essie and Armuti Stanley. In 1945 she graduated from Duquesne High School. She later attended Pittsburgh School of Art and Allegheny Community College. She met George Stratton Nash, Sr. in her late twenties and they married on December 7, 1954. shortly afterwards they moved to Philadelphia where they resided for several years eventually, they settled in Sewickley Pa purchased a home and raised their two sons Stratton and Paul. Mildred was a loving wife, an extraordinary mother, devoted sister, impassioned church and community leader and a courageous trail blazer. Her employment journey started following high school graduation in June 1945 where she worked a variety of jobs from domestic cleaning at the Pittsburgh YMCA to Elevator Operator, Switchboard operator, However, it was her job as a Secretary for the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County that landed her a position as secretary to the Honorable Eunice Ross and becoming the 1st Black woman to cross the racial lines and work for a white Judge. Despite racially based, false claims to disqualify and undermine her qualification she stayed with the Judge until her retirement in 1992. Mildred’s service to the community and her church was extensive. She committed herself to serving to the needs and wants of the community. During her lifetime she held positions as a Board member on the Sewickley Community Center and belonged to several organizations. The Hawthorne Club, Travel Club, Sewickley Historical, Society, Triumph Missionary Society are just a few organizations Mildred participated in. However, it is her role as Teacher and starting the Triumph Senior ministry that brought her so much joy and spiritual growth. Mildred loved to travel and made trips both domestically and abroad. Favorite destinations were Israel and Venice. She loved taking trips with her sisters and looked forward to the annual Martha’s Vineyard family vacation. Lastly anyone who eventually had the opportunity to know her understood that her 1st love was Bridge. For decades, 2 Saturdays a month, work, church, civic duties, family obligations all stopped to meetup with a group of lifelong friends and play a few hands of bridge, eat, laugh while listening to Jazz. She leaves her most cherished legacies to her sons, Stratton and Paul Nash, daughter in-law Carla Nash, grandson Stratton Nash, III and sisters Barbara Smith and Gladys Crawford of Atlanta, Georgia. She is predeceased in death by her parents, Essie and Armutis Stanley of Duquesne, PA, Husband, George Stratton Nash Sr., Siblings, Nora Jamison, Mae-Francis Gooden, Ernestine Howard, Philip Stanley, Cornell Stanley, Calvin Stanley, Kenneth Stanley, Wilbert Stanley and Daviston Stanley. A funeral service was held at 11:00 AM, March 5, 2022 at Triumph Church of Sewickley, her church home of over 40 years. Pastor Craig Giles officiated the service. Donations and condolences may be offered at Triumph Church, 1293 Mt Nebo Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15237. IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, THE FAMILY ASKS THAT DONATIONS BE SENT TO THE SEWICKLEY COMMUNITY CENTER LOCATED AT 15 CHADWICK STREET, SEWICKLEY, PA 15143, IN HONOR OF MILDRED NASH. ARRANGEMENTS BY RICHARD D. COLE FUNERAL HOME-SEWICKLEY.
ing to remove any and all barriers for the best students across this region to have access to Sewickley Academy.” One thing that can’t be removed, however, is what the people of Pittsburgh, especially the African American population, think of Sewickley Academy. Will African American parents want to send their children there? Will the children want to go there? Maybe there’s been no change in how many Black families view Sewickley Academy since the firings of the school’s only two Black administrators, Burton and Leek, were fired last summer. Or maybe there has been a change of heart. Only time will tell, and the clock began ticking weeks ago.
Anthony Wiles, a senior at Sewickley Academy, spoke at a press conference on March 9 with his fellow students by his side. Wiles, who is Black, is part of the “core group of students” who have been pushing for the school to change its ways related to diversity and inclusion. Wiles, who has been recognized nationally for his work as a poet, had no problem speaking in front of the cameras for what he believes in. “No matter what you might think, we all love the school, we all love Sewickley,” the soon-tobe Sewickley grad said. “Sewickley has made us into the young leaders that we are today, but now we’re fighting for our school — We are fighting to save our school.”
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What to know about the 2022 tax season by Sherri Kolade Michigan Chronicle
EARL GRAVES SR.
Earl Graves Sr., The Visionary (TriceEdneyWire.com)—It is not uncommon to have an unexpected crisis or hardship become the catalyst that guides a person to new opportunities and success. Amid challenging times, the situation may no longer be tolerable or even available as an option, forcing a person to move on to what can potentially be bigger and better opportunities. An unexpected crisis can also cause a person to refocus and tap into previously never-used internal gifts and talents. As a student at Morgan State University, Earl G. Graves Sr. told acquaintances that he hoped to be a successful businessman. They often reacted with skepticism because “the concept of a Black businessman with his own corporation” was largely a foreign, even laughable idea to Blacks as well as Whites.
David W. Marshall
Commentary
Michigan has about $47 million in potential refunds from previous tax refunds for eligible residents. Do you qualify? Or have you paid too much in taxes and need to right some wrongs in that discrepancy? The Michigan Chronicle sat down with Jason Tinsley, market manager at J.P. Morgan Private Bank in Detroit, and talked about what taxpayers should know about filing in 2022, filing with a professional or going solo and more especially during the somewhat-waning pandemic. Monday, April 18 tax filing deadline to submit 2021 tax returns or an extension to file and pay the tax owed for most taxpayers, according to the IRC. While it’s too late now to file early (Tinsley recommends filing early the next go-round) residents can still get the best bang for their buck when it comes to getting their returns in a few weeks. “Sign up for direct deposit it’s more efficient for them and you,” Tinsley said adding that the “government has gotten a lot better” at returning funds on time. Tinsley, who is not a tax advisor but gives a scope of what taxes can do relative to one’s investment portfolio) said that by following tax law he is a market leader and helps Black families, LGBTQ communities, among others, keep their funds afloat. “Taxes are an important to people at every step of life and every income bracket,” he said adding that in the space he
Chicago Defender
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“THE PANDEMIC CONTINUES TO CREATE CHALLENGES, but the IRS reminds people there are important steps they can take to help ensure their tax return and refund don’t face processing delays. Filing electronically with direct deposit and avoiding a paper tax return is more important than ever this year.” sits in he notices its daily importance. Like last year, there will be individuals filing tax returns who, even though they are not required to file, need to file a 2021 return to claim a Recovery Rebate Credit to receive the tax credit from the 2021
stimulus payments or reconcile advance payments of the Child Tax Credit, according to the IRS. People who don’t typically file also could receive other credits. Tinsley added that with filing taxes there are numerous disruptions to the financial ecosystem on the inflation side that he said might not ruffle too many feathers. “(There has been) a lot of talk about potential tax law changes in 2022— we’re super confident nothing is going to change … the problems over in Europe, Ukraine (is) inflation, also with the Supreme Court judiciary track their working on we don’t think anything is going to change that could negatively impact SEE TAX SEASON B2
Last-minute tax tips with Tiffany Tapley by Danielle Sanders
It proved that as a young man, Graves was a visionary. Serving as an administrative assistant to New York Sen. Robert Kennedy, Graves learned how to cultivate and leverage power in addition to developing political and social skills. The assassination of Robert Kennedy changed everything. Kennedy’s traumatic death in 1968 meant Graves no longer had a job. It propelled him to return to his hometown of Brooklyn, New York, to rediscover his vision and gave birth to the idea of starting a newsletter to publicize advances in the Black community. What began as a
JASON TINSLEY, market manager at J.P. Morgan Private Bank in Detroit. (Photo courtesy of J.P. Morgan)
With the IRS tax deadline of April 18th approaching soon, Certified Tax Preparer, Tiffany Tapley offers a few last-minute tips for filers, creatives, small business owners, and entrepreneurs. Tapley has over 20 years of experience as a tech creative and entrepreneur consulting with top global Fortune 500 companies. She is well versed in understanding the challenges of juggling multiple contracts, balancing family life, and trying to find ways to lower your tax liability. Tapley offers her services with her virtual tax prep business. The Chicago Defender spoke with Tiffany Tapley about how to prepare to file your taxes this season, tax tips for par-
ents, and tips for contractors and creatives. In addition, Tiffany encourages parents of college students to remember available tax credits for college students. Tax professionals can help you determine which one should apply to your tax return. The American Opportunity Tax Credit: It can be claimed in amounts up to $2,500 per student, calculated as 100 percent of the first $2,000 in college costs and 25 percent of the next $2,000. It may be used toward required course materials (books, supplies, and equipment) and tuition and fees. The American opportunity tax credit (AOTC) is a credit for qualified education expenses paid for an eligible student’s first four years of higher education. You can get a maximum annual
credit of $2,500 per eligible student. If the credit brings the amount of tax you owe to zero, you can have 40 percent of any remaining amount of the credit (up to $1,000) refunded to you. Lifetime Learning Credit: The lifetime learning credit (LLC) is for qualified tuition and related expenses paid for eligible students enrolled in an eligible educational institution. This credit can help pay for undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree courses—including courses to acquire or improve job skills. There is no limit on the number of years you can claim the credit. It is worth up to $2,000 per tax return. To contact Tiffany Tapley, follow her on social media @taxtherapist or contact her office at (708) 408-4922 or via her website at www.badutaxservices.com.
Drinks are on me! Food is on YOU! We’ve all heard the saying, you shouldn’t drink on an empty stomach. Maybe he should have asked if she’d eaten before he asked her out for drinks. But he didn’t. As the story goes: Guy asked a woman to meet up and have drinks around 8:00 P.M. She agrees. He was very specific about having drinks. They get to the restaurant, she asks for a menu and orders food. He orders drinks only. As the date comes to an end, the server brings out the bill and places it in front of him. He says to the server, excuse me, can you please separate the bill into two. I’ll pay for the drinks. Please invoice her for the food that she ordered. She was steaming mad. MAD-MAD. She looked at him and shouted, YOU asked ME out! I wasn’t expecting to pay. He replied in a firm matter of fact tone, I said DRINKS! I WILL NOT pay for FOOD! Who’s wrong here? Did she act from a place of entitlement or misplaced expectations? Was he wrong for standing his ground? I put this question “Who’s wrong here” before my Facebook Followers: Here’s what they had to say. I’ll also chime in: The whole thing is petty. If you invite someone out, expect to pay unless other arrangements were mentioned. I would have paid for my food and left. There would be no second date. This is why you never go out unless you have the money to cover situations like this. ~ Nanyale Welp! if he didn’t want to pay for food he should have said that when she got the menu. But that is petty as heck! I also think it’s rude to assume someone is going to pay for something without asking. ~ Damon W. I’ve been there before. I did not pay
for the food. I didn’t give it a second thought. She didn’t have any money. I left! ~ Philip He said drinks at 8 pm. That’s past dinnertime. Unless it’s presented as dinner at 8, it’s drinks. She was wrong for expecting him to pay for the food she ordered when he asked her out for drinks. She should have asked him instead of expecting him to pay. In the end, if I were him, I would pay but a second date probably wouldn’t be in the cards. ~ Candance Well, he obviously wasn’t feeling her because if he was, he would’ve paid for the drinks AND food. Dating is getting more and more ridiculous. I’ll be DAMNED if I leave the house without money! This new generation does things differently. They’re dating BROKE. I don’t get it! I will speak from experience. A man invited me out for drinks to a restaurant that served food. But I stuck to the script and only ordered drinks. As the night went on, he ordered food, told me I could order as well, and so I did. But I initially stuck to the script and only ordered drinks. ~ Michika Michika, I agree with you! I bet he was still trying to smash. The dating pool is trash! It’s definitely not how it used to be! ~ Katt She should pay for her dinner ~ Verdell He should have taken her somewhere that only sold drinks. He was being petty. She made the big mistake of assum-
ing he’d pay for everything. ~ Ronna Always have some money of your own! A decent man normally ask have you eaten? Or would you Ike to get something to eat before drinks.? If not, you want it, pay for it, and keep it moving. ~ AJ Sounds like she dogged a bullet! ~ Shante He must’ve met her on a dating site and she showed up looking like somebody else. He got mad and said, NO!! ~ Teddy He said drinks and meant it. Granted most men will still offer and pay for food on a “drink date”. However, they’re not entitled to do so. She should’ve never assumed anything and paid attention to the details. ~ Lee Lah When she asked for the menu and he knew he had no intentions of paying for food, he should have said something right then. I think he’s WHACKED for not paying. Most places I’ve been to, The alcohol cost 3 times more than the food. ~ Robert When I get asked out for drinks only, I always make sure I eat beforehand. If for some reason I don’t and I decide to order food, I would let him know that I’ll pay for my food since I didn’t have time to eat. If he offers to pay, fine. If not, I got it. This chick made an assumption that he would pay, which was wrong, but he also should’ve made that known when she decided to order food. ~ Danielle If he asked her out for drinks, then she
should eat first, early, and then go out for drinks. Or, cut the date early and thank him for the DATE and then go grab a fatburger. ~ Sharon J. He’s very petty and cheap. I would assume that if someone is inviting me out, they are also picking up the tab. She needs to drop him ASAP and find someone who is not that rigid. ~ Sharon R. Damon here: Nowadays it costs more to drink at a restaurant than it does to eat. He should have opted to take her out to eat. It’s cheaper to feed her! My perspective is different because I’m constantly advising people to stick to their budget. My most often repeated expression in my everyday life is, it’s not in the budget. Who knows, his money may have been tight, he’s in between pays, or something came up that stretched him financially. These are real things that happen in everyday life. He should be honest from the jump. He asking her out should have gone like this: I’d like to take you out. I’m stretched financially right now. I can only pay for drinks. We can do something more extravagant on our next date. Are you ok with going out for drinks? A woman likes a take charge type of man who initiates dates and other fun activities. A woman is attracted to and respects a man who knows how to manage his money. He’s not faking like he’s balling out of control. He’s demonstrating that he’s spending under control. Furthermore, It will allow her to be more honest and upfront when she can’t afford to do certain things.
(Damon Carr, Money Coach can be reached at 412-216-1013 or visit his website at www.damonmoneycoach.com)
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Earl Graves Sr., The Visionary GRAVES FROM B1
newsletter developed into Black Enterprise magazine, which published its first issue in August 1970. “The time was ripe for a magazine devoted to economic development in the African American community,” Graves wrote. “The publication was committed to the task of educating, inspiring, and uplifting its readers. My goal was to show them how to thrive professionally, economically, and as proactive, empowered citizens.” Over the years, the progression continued with Black Enterprise evolving from a single-magazine publishing company to a diversified, multimedia business that reaches more than 6 million African Americans through print, digital, broadcast, and live-event platforms. One can point to the three years Graves worked for Robert Kennedy as a valuable season of preparation, thereby forming the bedrock of his future leadership philosophy. The greatest investment in leadership is not in things but in people. Earl Graves Sr. was a people person, which became the source of his success. He not only fulfilled his dream of becoming a successful Black businessman, but he also committed himself to help others do the same. The ultimate purpose of leadership in any endeavor—whether it is business, religion, politics, or education—is not the accomplishment of goals or the achievement of quotas but rather the leader’s legacy through his successor. Leadership is concerned more about people than products, more about mankind than money. True leadership is measured by the people you “produce.” Otherwise, after you leave this earth, your vision could leave with you. Earl Graves Sr. died on April 6, 2020, at 85, after a seven-year battle with Alzheimer’s. Having worked for his father since graduating from Harvard Business School in 1988, his eldest son, Earl “Butch” Graves Jr., was named chief executive officer of Black Enterprise in January 2006. “His concern was the long-term viability of Black Enterprise and making sure that it could be left not just for our generation, but generations to come,” Graves Jr. said about his father. “He understood the importance of that legacy and the importance of an African
American-owned business passing from one generation to the next. He was hyper-focused on that.” On April 6, 2022, a public tribute celebrated Earl Graves Sr.’s life and legacy at his beloved Morgan State. Despite being delayed two years due to the pandemic, the tribute touched on every part of his life: dedicated family man, Morgan State alumnus and ambassador, Omega Psi Phi fraternity brother, Army officer, trailblazing entrepreneur, award-winning publisher, business coach, and cheerleader, corporate board pioneer, social justice advocate, philanthropist, political adviser, best-selling author, civil rights leader, and man of faith who cared for people. Earl Graves Sr.’s commitment to excellence and equality aligns with Frederick Douglass, who said it best in his “Self-Made Men” speech. He stated, “Give the Negro fair play and let him alone. I meant all that I said and a good deal more than some understand by fair play. It is not fair play to start the Negro out in life, from nothing and with nothing, while others start with the advantage of a thousand years behind them. He should be measured, not by heights others have obtained, but from the depths from which he has come…. The nearest approach to justice to the Negro for the past is to do him justice in the present. Throw open to him the doors of the schools, the factories, the workshops, and all mechanical industries. For his own welfare, give him a chance to do whatever he can do well. If he fails, then let him fail! I can, however, assure you that he will not fail.” Frederick Douglass’s legacy of uplifting people did not die but continued through men like Earl Graves Sr. Earl Graves Sr.’s legacy still lives through his son Butch Graves and millions of others inspired by his leadership. For those committed to hard work and self-determination, the “Self-Made Men” speech applies to every student at the Earl Graves School of Business and Management, every Black entrepreneur, corporate executive, and leader across all professions now and in the future. Rest in peace, Mr. Graves. (David W. Marshall is the founder of the faith-based organization, TRB: The Reconciled Body, and author of the book God Bless Our Divided America. He can be reached at www. davidwmarshallauthor.com.)
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Morgan Overton joins Gainey Administration PITTSBURGH—Mayor Ed Gainey announced Thursday, April 7, that longtime advocate for gender, racial, and economic justice Morgan Overton will join his administration. Overton joins the administration in the Office of Management and Budget under Chiefs Chintalapalli and Frank and will support the administration’s efforts in creating a more equitable Pittsburgh for all. “I am pleased to announce the addition of Morgan Overton to my administration,” said Mayor Gainey. “Morgan brings a decade of experience in public service and leadership to our team and her counsel will be invaluable. I am confident she will serve the residents of Pittsburgh honorably.” Overton is a fifth generation Pittsburgher and began her journey in public service as a 2012 Obama for America Fellow, where she mobilized fellow college students across Pittsburgh and sought to empower the youth electorate through voter registration and pol-
icy teach-ins. She previously served as a community engagement and policy associate for the Jewish Healthcare Foundation where she cultivated strong partnerships to strategize institutional and public policy reform related to maternal health equity. She also held roles with the Women and Girls Foundation and Boston Children’s Hospital as a program associate and clinical research assistant respectively. Overton currently serves on the following boards and committees: Pennsylvania Young Democrats, member of executive board Young Democrats of Allegheny County, president Black Equity Coalition, member of policy committee City of Pittsburgh Gender Equity Commission, acting chair and 1st vice chair Black Women’s Policy Agenda, member of steering committee Morgan holds a Masters of Social Work
MORGAN OVERTON, a longtime advocate for gender, racial, and economic justice. with a focus in community organizing and social action from the University of Pittsburgh. Overton will start work with the administration immediately.
HBCU alumni earning more than other Black graduates, report finds (Black Information Network)—Higher salaries and economic impact appear to be more benefits of attending one of the esteemed Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). A new report shows HBCU alumni are earning higher median salaries than other Black graduates in the same state that attended a Predominately White Institution (PWI). The data identifies HBCUs with the highest payoff for Black students by comparing the average salaries of Black colleges with their respective states’ salary thresholds. The report notes that some HBCUs have lower tuition costs than other four-year universities which contributes to the higher payday students
are seeing after attending Black colleges. According to the report, New Orleans Xavier University provides Black students with the most bang for their buck. The average salary for Xavier alumni is $52,582, while other Lousiana Black graduates with the same level of education are only raking in $36,962, a difference of over $15,000. Spelman College is also among the list of HBCUs with the most payoff for Black alumni. Spelman graduates are earning $9,000 more than other Black graduates in Georgia. Other HBCUs where alumni are cashing in for their education at higher rates include Hampton University, Morehouse College, Florida
Agricultural and Mechanical University, Tennessee State University, Fisk University, Tuskegee University, Alcom State University, and Dillard University. HBCU alumni are making more money than their Black peers in numerous states and generating higher economic impact. According to Culture-
Banx, for every dollar spent by HBCUs and their students, $1.44 goes into local and regional economies, and their graduates are making an additional $927,000. HBCUs continue to be havens for Black students to earn an education and generate wealth.
Report: 50 percent of women of color in the U.S. make less than $15 an hour by Cherranda Smith For New Pittsburgh Courier
(Black Information Network)—A new report released by Oxfam America on Tuesday (March 22) exposes the alarming pay disparities across race and gender in the United States. The report used data from the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey and Current Population Survey and found that more than 50 million workers across the country are making less than $15 an hour—and a “staggering” amount of those workers
are Black women and other women of color. The data shows that 47 percent of Black workers make less than $15 an hour, compared to 26 percent of White workers. Across gender, 40 percent of women make under $15 an hour, compared to 25 percent of men. And among women of color, the report found that half (50 percent) are paid less than $15 an hour. Nearly a third (31.9 percent) of American workers are making less than $15 an hour, which is about $31,200 annually. The current feder-
al minimum wage is set at $7.25, though advocates and lawmakers alike have long called for an increase to a “livable” $15 an hour minimum wage rate. According to Oxfam’s estimates, given the country’s current record-high inflation rates, Congress’ 2009 minimum wage increase has decreased 21 percent in value since then. “It’s been 13 years since Congress raised the wage floor in this country, and in that time all costs of living have steadily climbed,” Kaitlyn Henderson, senior re-
searcher at Oxfam said in the report’s release, according to The Huffington Post. “It’s shameful that at a time when many US companies are boasting record profits, some of the hardest working people in this country—especially people who keep our economy and society functioning—are struggling to get by and falling behind.” If Congress were to pass a universal minimum wage of $15 per hour, Oxfam says the move would lift millions out of poverty and aid in reducing the ever-growing wealth gap in the US.
What to know about the 2022 tax season TAX SEASON FROM B1
families on any particular income level.” Tinsley added that the filing deadline is approaching soon and those who are waiting to the last minute should get all their ducks in a row by Monday, April 18. “We always tell clients the best way to take advantage of tax situation is to make sure you’ve done everything to minimize implication and did you maximize your 401k contributions this year from filing from last year.” Below are the eight actions to consider to improve your 2022 return: • Maximize contributions to all tax-deferred accounts—The amounts you can contribute to your 401(k) account increased by $1,000 in 2022 (up to $20,500 if you are under age 50, or $27,000 if you are over 50). Also, the amount your employer and you can contribute has risen by $3,000 (to $61,000 or $67,500, respectively, depending on your age). • Consider required minimum distributions (RMDs) and qualified charitable distributions (QCDs)—Before you take your RMDs this year, decide whether you’d want to make a QCD of up to $100,000 to a public charity, in place of all or part of your RMDs. Unlike an RMD, the QCD amount is excluded from your gross taxable income. • Fund charitable gifts with appreciated stock—Many equities appreciated significantly over the last year and it could make it extremely tax-wise to donate those public equities, in kind, to a public charity. • Review your quarterly estimated payments—Review your actual 2021 and an-
ticipated 2022 tax bills to determine your minimum necessary quarterly estimated payments for this year. • Decide which state to call your home for
come taxpayers. But even if it did pass such a bill, most individuals with incomes less than $10 million a year or non-grantor trusts that accumulate less than $200,000 a year are
income tax purposes in 2022—Many taxpayers moved during the pandemic but were not able to get themselves officially declared residents of a lower-tax state, or to minimize the taxes they owed to multiple states. But you have time in 2022 to establish a domicile in the state to which you want to pay taxes this year. • Stay up-to-date on potential federal income tax rate increases—It appears increasingly unlikely Congress will pass legislation in 2022 that would raise tax rates on high-in-
likely to be unaffected. • Optimize annual exclusion gifts—Consider making annual exclusion (up to $16,000 per donor, per done) gifts earlier in the year so that any growth on these assets over the year occurs off your balance sheet. • Harvest capital losses—Consider implementing a systematic program harvesting capital losses for your securities portfolios. Doing so might help you to take advantage of any market downturns while avoiding the wash sale rules so adverse to taxpayers—
and to bank those losses to offset already realized (or future) capital gains. Tinsley added that for tax refund gains consider maximizing one’s 401K. “Every dollar you prefund into retirement that is one less dollar for Uncle Sam,” Tinsley said, adding that those taxes are deferred until retirement. For example, if a person makes $100,000 a year and puts $19,000 away they are only taxed at $81,000 as opposed to what they don’t put away. “People forget and say, ‘I can’t afford to do this,” he said adding that they can’t afford not to when it comes to lessening a tax burden and creating a future income possibility that can be put into a retirement vehicle. “Retirement is the goal. In this day and age, less and less people have access to pensions. (You) want to put as much money away so today’s dollar has a chance to grow.” “Planning for the nation’s filing season process is a massive undertaking, and IRS teams have been working non-stop these past several months to prepare,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “The pandemic continues to create challenges, but the IRS reminds people there are important steps they can take to help ensure their tax return and refund don’t face processing delays. Filing electronically with direct deposit and avoiding a paper tax return is more important than ever this year. And we urge extra attention to those who received an Economic Impact Payment or an advance Child Tax Credit last year. People should make sure they report the correct amount on their tax return to avoid delays.”
OPINION
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
APRIL 13-19, 2022
B3
Unquestioned competence
Guest Editorial
Slapped at the Oscars By now, just about everyone has heard about the “slap that was felt around the world.” During the 94th Academy Awards, nicknamed “The Oscars,” hosted on Sunday, March 27, Will Smith sent shock waves everywhere as he approached comedian Chris Rock and slapped him! Rock had just delivered a tasteless joke about Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith’s, bald head. Smith then calmly walked back to his seat. He shouted to Chris “Keep my wife’s name out of your “fxxxing” mouth!” To his credit, Chris Rock did not retaliate, but said “Will Smith just slapped the “sh!t out of me!” He also did not press charges against Smith. Make no mistake; Will Smith was absolutely wrong for what he did! However, both individuals bore some culpability. Rock should not have improvised a joke that was in bad taste about Jada Pinkett Smith’s bald head. He may, or may not have known that she was suffering from alopecia and had publicly addressed the issue repeatedly in recent months. This was the second time during an Oscars event that Chris Rock singled Jada out for laughter; he did it during the Oscars held in 2016. The “slap” did more than just commit violence against Chris Rock; it basically tarnished the entire awards event! After clamoring for inclusion by the Black community, this was the first time that the Oscars was produced by an African American, Will Packer (along with Shayla Cowan). Also, Smith’s actions overshadowed the fact that this was the first time the event was hosted by three females: Wanda Sykes, Amy Schumer, and Regina Hall; and minimized the recognition that Qwestlove won an Oscar for the film Summer of Soul, among other notable highlights. Will Smith’s slap was literally so psychologically loud that it drowned out almost everything else about the Oscars. This event has split the Black community into two camps: those who are pro Will Smith and those who are pro Chris Rock. The reasons for this are what’s interesting. Some people are fed up with being targeted by tasteless jokes leveled at the audience by insensitive comedians, and Chris Rock’s faux pas could arguably fit into that category. On the other hand, Will Smith, ironically, is being seen as both being dominated by his “toxic” wife AND by being a bully who used violence against Rock and, in so doing, destroyed the Oscars. Keen observers might see that something else is happening: that the response is really a backlash against Jada Pinkett Smith and her family. As host of Red Table Talk, a number of intimate details about the Smith family have been revealed, and because of this, some people have come to love to hate the family. There was even a petition to have the show canceled. Clues to this notion can be seen in how many people are accusing Jada of instigating the slap because Will has been traumatized by the revelation on Red Table Talk that she had had an “entanglement” with August Alsina, an American singer. It does not matter that Will was allegedly the first one to cheat; that Will and Jada were separated when it happened, or that Alsina said that Will knew about his intent and allegedly gave his blessings. People are saying Jada should have stopped Will from doing what he did, but from the videos of the event, it would not be possible to guess that “nice guy” Will was walking to the stage for the purpose of slapping Rock. Nothing like this has ever happened before, so it is very probable that Jada was as surprised by his behavior as was everyone else. But Jada has become the culprit and many people are blaming her for the whole debacle! Some people think that Jada is destroying Will Smith. Conversely, this translates into the notion that Will, who continually demonstrates love for Jada and his family, is seen as a punk, as a weak male. So, this is also an attack on Will’s masculinity, even though socking someone for insulting your wife should generate the opposite sentiment! Ultimately, Will’s behavior generated a backlash that was waiting to happen against the Smith family. Will’s slap provided an opportunity for the public to slap the Smith family for revealing their dirty laundry, and, in so doing, possibly embarrassing the Black community. Whatever the case, the fallout from this unfortunate event is not yet over and Will Smith’s career may have been irreparably damaged while Chris Rock’s stature might be enhanced. A Luta Continua. (Reprinted from the Chicago Crusader)
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John. H. Sengstacke
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(TriceEdneyWire.com)—I remember it well! It hasn’t been that long ago and I’m sure that it’s still practiced in culturally anachronistic pockets of this nation—like the US Senate. I speak of that circumstance in which the best a Black woman can expect from (some) White folks is to be called by her first name, and if she’s older, Auntie! She can never dream of the expectation of conversational courtesies in tone or expression. In modern America, the same type of blatant and benign contempt of never speaking in tones of equanimity or affording an individual the respect of using a Mrs. or Ms. (or Mr.) and a last name has been reflected in the tone and tenor of (certain) Republican Senators during the confirmation hearings of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson. In the past few days, an exceptionally qualified jurist who has received Senate confirmation on three separate occasions has been subjected to interrogation no better than if she were herself a criminal. I am sure that without the razor-thin majority of Senate Democrats, the Supreme Court would have to wait for the election of the next Republican president to reach its full complement. It is clear that (Senate) Republicans deeply embrace an anti-abortion philosophy, unfettered access to commercially available firearms, the influx of ‘dark’ money in the political process, and a disregard for the management of climate issues. Their goal of ending protections for same-sex couples and
Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq.
Commentary families, and irrefutable acceptance and endorsement of White supremist values as an integral part of Republicanism (Trumpism) are common to the interests they support. In recent days, a Republican Senator from Indiana has even opined that the Supreme Court erred in guaranteeing the legality of interracial marriage. A Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson would be a strong voice against this reactionary agenda. The confirmation hearings were not easy for me to watch. The longer I viewed them, the more disgusted I became. My disgust was directed at the ridiculous, mindless inquiries of Republican members of the Senate Judiciary Committee and their failed and repeated attempts to entrap Judge Jackson in an ill-considered response. My disgust was only tempered in the juxtaposition of Judge Jackson’s record against those of her inquisitors. Her multifaceted experience in the justice system will serve to enhance her position on the high court. At all levels, she has been credited by and for exemplary
performance. Moreover, her lived experiences provide a myriad of perspectives that are not currently available to current Justices. Additionally, she has received endorsements which span divergent political viewpoints far too numerous to list in this space. We must remember Josh Hawley in the context of January 6, 2020, and as the fist-pumping US Senator who participated in inciting the traitorous, insurrectionist mob to storm the US Capital. There is significant contrast between a judge whose life’s work has been upholding the law and a rookie Senator who has played an integral part of an insurrection against our Constitution. Senators Blackburn, Cruz, Kennedy, Cornyn and Cotton feebly attempted to entrap Judge Jackson in a discussion of nebulous, irrelevant topics which all appeared to serve as soundbites for future campaign ads tinged with a huge dose of racism. And then came Lindsey Graham! Not only could his behavior be characterized as arrogant and self-righteous, but his conduct violated the committee’s confirmation rules and his public use of profanity was inconsistent with the decorum of the body and the office. Most impressive was Judge Jackson’s grace and controlled demeanor. She has rightfully secured her claim to a seat on the Supreme Court. (Dr. E. Faye Williams is National President of the National Congress of Black Women, Inc.)
Far-right smears of Judge Jackson show why we can’t let them take power (TriceEdneyWire.com)—Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson made history this week when the U.S. Senate confirmed her nomination as a U.S. Supreme Court Justice. That is cause for celebration. When Judge Jackson is sworn in as Justice Jackson later this year, she will become the first Black woman to serve on our highest court. And she will become the first justice ever to have served as a public defender. She will bring a much-needed “justice for all” perspective to the court. Judge Jackson’s nomination has inspired millions of Americans. Her bipartisan support from Americans and senators is a sign that our country can continue to move toward a “more perfect union.” The confirmation process, however, showed us something else. Something far more disturbing about the current state of that union. The far-right wing of the conservative movement, which is currently the dominant force in the Republican Party, set out to smear Judge Jackson and anyone—Republican or Democrat—who supported her. They made it clear why we cannot allow them to take power in this year’s elections. They dragged Judge Jackson into dishonest and dishonorable far-right political campaigns that were already under way. For example, far-right activists and their Republican allies have been waging a campaign to silence teaching about racism in U.S. history and institutions. The Far Right has devoted a huge amount of energy to make critical race theory—a way of studying the impact of racism—something sinister. They want
Ben Jealous
Commentary to scare conservative voters into turning out for school board elections and this year’s congressional elections. The extremist think-tank activist who started the CRT scare has admitted that his goal was just to apply that label to anything that right-wing culture warriors didn’t like. And for sure, they tried to slap it on Judge Jackson. Another far-right campaign sweeping the country is an attack on the legal equality of LGBTQ Americans. That campaign taps into some of the oldest and ugliest smears against LGBTQ people—claims that they are a threat to children. And it draws energy from the conspiracy theories promoted by QAnon activists about a network of powerful pedophiles. Shameless senators like Josh Hawley and Ted Cruz tried to drag Judge Jackson into that cesspool by distorting her record as a judge and portraying this mother of two daughters as sympathetic to child abusers. Now, keep in mind that Judge Jackson is from a law enforcement family, and was endorsed by organizations representing both police chiefs and police officers. That didn’t stop the smears. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene made it clear that this was a political weapon. She outrageously attacked three Republican senators who voted to confirm
Judge Jackson, calling them “pro-pedophile.” And she attacked Democrats as “the party of pedophiles.” The Family Research Council suggested that it would try to make Democratic senators explain their support for someone who is “lenient on child offenders.” Others used far worse language. This is beyond unprincipled. It is dangerous. And it shows us how much is at stake in this year’s elections. If we let these extremists get control of the House and Senate, we will be putting our future in the hands of people like Greene, Hawley and Cruz. And we will put our courts in the hands of Mitch McConnell, who kept many of President Barack Obama’s judicial nominees, including a Supreme Court nominee, from even getting a vote. Judge Jackson’s nomination was part of an exceptional effort that President Joe Biden has made to put more Black women, and a more diverse group of judges, on the courts. But Sen. Lindsey Graham made it clear that Republicans would put an end to that. He said if Republicans had been in control of the Senate, Judge Jackson wouldn’t have even gotten a hearing—because Republican senators would have forced President Biden to name someone else. What a loss that would have been for our country—and for all the people who are inspired by Judge Jackson. Let’s not give the Far Right a veto over our courts and our future. (Ben Jealous serves as president of People For the American Way and Professor of the Practice in the Africana Studies Department at the University of Pennsylvania where he teaches leadership.)
Remembering MLK, 54 years later by Stacy M. Brown (NNPA)—On April 4, 1968, an assassin’s bullet ended the dynamic life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the age of 39. King stood on a balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee, a site that’s now a museum dedicated to the civil rights champion’s life. James Earl Ray ultimately pleaded guilty to shooting King but later claimed he was a pawn in a more significant crime ring to kill the African American leader. On the 54th anniversary of King’s death, observances took place around the nation, while those not attending specific events took to social media to commemorate the icon. “We spend more time celebrating [King’s] birth than acknowledging where he was politically when he was killed—fighting alongside sanitation workers, opposing war, racism, and capitalism,” historian and author Barbara Ransby wrote on Twitter. “April 4 reminds us of the power of the radical King,” Ransby noted. Maya Wiley, the incoming president of The Leadership Conference, also provided remarks via social media. “[On April 4], 1968, Martin Luther King was assassinated for believing we are equal, shouldn’t be poor, and have rights,” Wiley asserted.
“Today, we’re told to fear learning about race or gender identity, to permit voter suppression, and that a highly qualified Black woman isn’t Supreme Court material. We have work to do.” One day before King’s assassination, the civil rights leader gave his last speech where he proclaimed that he’d been to the mountaintop. In a sad prophecy, King prepared his followers for his demise. “It really doesn’t matter what happens now,” he insisted. “We’ve got some difficult days ahead,” he continued before doubling down. “But it doesn’t matter with me now. Because I’ve been to the mountaintop. And I don’t mind. Like anybody, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. “But I’m not concerned about that now. I just want to do God’s will. And He’s allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I’ve looked over. And I’ve seen the promised land. “I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight that we, as a people, will get to the promised land. And I’m happy tonight. I’m not worried about anything. I’m not fearing any man.” Rev. Jesse Jackson, who attended King’s last speech and stood nearby at the Lorraine Motel when the assassin cut down his colleague, participated in an event at Mt. Olive CME Church
in Memphis to help commemorate the 54th anniversary of that dark day. “It’s sad for me. I was with him when the shot was fired,” Jackson remarked. “I can replay it back of my mind. It hurts still. I think about the progress we’ve made since that time.” Jackson joined Bishop Henry Williamson Sr. and others in Memphis to observe the anniversary. “The 54th-anniversary celebration of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is one of the most important dates in Tennessee and across the nation to observe,” Williamson stated. As part of the observance, Williamson, Jackson, and others visited the National Civil Rights Museum, which stands at the Lorraine Motel, and the historic Collins Chapel Connectional Hospital, the only hospital in Memphis that allowed Black people during segregation. “Dr. King called for non-violence to bring about change against unjust and immoral laws in situations of segregation and discrimination. We need that in today’s world,” Williamson said. Illinois Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth agreed. “We will never forget Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for all he did to change the course of our nation’s future for the better,” Duckworth stated. “Today, it falls upon all of us to continue his legacy.”
B4
FORUM
APRIL 13-19, 2022
Brother Biden, please keep another promise or two (TriceEdneyWire.com)—I do this thing in my head with President Joe Biden. When he gets on my nerves, I often call him President. When I want something from him or want to thank him for something, I call him Brother Biden. As I write this, I thank him for our incoming Supreme Court Justice, Ketanji Brown Jackson, and I’m celebrating her gracious, humble, generous presence like so many of us. This woman inspires me, and that’s an understatement. I admire how she has managed to keep her effervescent smile through the kind of nonsense that would have me throwing punches. Ted Cruz, really? Lindsey Graham, really? These privileged White men attempted to rattle the cage of a woman who could be taken off her game. May we all have some measure of her restraint. So thank you, Brother Biden, for doing the right thing. But it isn’t the only right thing you can do. You talked about reparations during the 2020 campaign. Now there is legislation in the House of Representatives to pass HR 40, the legislation that Congressman John Conyers (D-MI) introduced annually since 1989, and that Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (DTX) is now carrying. The votes are almost there, but the Senate will not pass it. Why not do an executive order to study the reparations issue officially. It would take a stroke of your pen to make this happen.
Julianne Malveaux
News Analysis Why won’t you do the right thing? You also agreed to forgive some student loan debt. While it is clear that there is some pushback on forgiving all debt, why not take the first step by forgiving some of it? With a stroke of a pen, you could forgive at least ten grand of it for everyone who carries debt, and we know that Black folk, in particular, have more. What is preventing you from honoring a campaign promise and helping needy people? As an educator, I’m more than familiar with the equity arguments that the likes of Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) make. Is it fair for working-class folks to carry the debt of the highly educated? Did people take out too many loans for the wrong purposes? What will loan forgiveness cost? From an equity perspective, Manchin may have a minor point. There is a flip side, though. What will it cost us if we don’t forgive the loans? We already see the delayed adulthood of some young people with the accelerated adulthood of others. In other words, affluent young people buy homes, while young folks with less privileged backgrounds are graduating college and moving to their parent’s homes, crippled by student loan debt. These different circumstances exacerbate the wealth gap. Brother Biden, you have an opportunity to make a difference in millions of lives. Democrats are sitting in the crosshairs. They are worried about the 2022 election and turnout when President Biden’s (not Brother Biden’s) rankings are tanking. He has options, though, and one of them is to keep more of his promises. It would take him five minutes to do student loan forgiveness. It would take another five to offer an executive order about reparations. And most importantly, it would take him some concentrated effort to put his shoulder to the wheel on voting rights. The Republicans in the Senate do not have his back, even as a special few supported the nomination of incoming Justice Ketani Brown Jackson. Those same three—Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), and Mitt Romney (R-UT) know that voting rights have been trampled on. They know that they can do the right thing. They won’t do it because they don’t have to and because too many of them are currying favor with the former President to speak out of their integrity. They spoke of their integrity when they voted to confirm incoming Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson. They spoke of integrity and history when they stood up and explained their votes. They spoke lofty words, but there are only a few words they will use to stand up against their bullying party. We have to give them credit for speaking out, but we must also ask why more Republicans won’t stand on the side of integrity. Instead, we have blustering bullies who would publicly bully a woman of extreme faith and integrity, who are more enamored with their own voices than with the truth. President Biden, stop trying to reason with these idiots. Stop being a Senator and start being a President. Use your executive orders to move your student loans and voting rights agenda. Push them to the limit, like they are pushing you to yours. Thank you for Justice Katanji. Is it within the realm of possibility that I might thank you again in these next few months? I hope so. (Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an economist, author, and Dean of the College of Ethnic Studies at Cal State LA. Juliannemalveaux.com.)
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
BLM: The red flags waved for a decade In 2012 a Black teen was fatally shot by a Florida community watch volunteer. The volunteer claimed self-defense. He wasn’t arrested or charged with a crime. Civil Rights organizations rushed to Florida to demand the arrest of the volunteer. This started the Black Lives Matter movement. The BLM slogan was quickly embraced, but no one knew their agenda. In 2014 a White police officer fatally shot a Black teen in Ferguson, Missouri. The officer claimed he fired in self-defense. Witnesses said the teen was shot while his hands were up. Rioting and protests took place for over a week. Here BLM gained national recognition, but there were some red flags. No video captured the shooting, and no one knew what happened. Instead of waiting for the official investigation to reveal more information, protesters and rioters went forward based on their assumptions. Taking drastic measures before knowing all the facts was irresponsible and reckless. (As it turned out, the hands-up story was false.) Also, Ferguson and Florida were different. The goal in Florida was to arrest the community watch volunteer and let the system play out. Ferguson had no equivalent agenda. That same year Tamir Rice, a 12-year-old boy who had an airsoft gun replica, was fatally shot by a police officer in Cleveland. BLM led the outcry. This shooting was so tragic that it gained sympathy and support for BLM. The next year the sympathy and support carried over to Baltimore after a Black man died in the back of a police van. However, it was Ferguson all over again. There was no video footage, no one knew what happened,
J. Pharoah Doss
Check It Out an official investigation was launched, and all the officers involved were suspended. Once again, the protesters had no interest in letting the system play out before they drew their conclusions and rioting broke out in Baltimore that lasted for weeks. This time protesters let it known they were protesting systemic racism. The problem here is that an effective protest deals with specifics, and they went from the specific to the general which is backward. Since accusations of systemic racism are rarely challenged it was ignored that the claim was made in a majority-Black city with a Black mayor, a Black police chief, a Black school superintendent, and a majority-Black city council. That made no sense. The senselessness carried over to the Democratic presidential primary. Groups of BLM activists invaded campaign rallies and interrupted campaign speeches by chanting “Black Lives Matter”. After this intrusion happened to Bernie Sanders one Black progressive writer called BLM an embarrassment and claimed BLM was, “a vehicle for individuals to become celebrity activists.” BLM also interrupted the 2015 Netroots Conference. (A convention for progressive political activists)
The same Black writer wrote: Guess what? We are here with BLM activists denouncing people as White supremacists who are at a rally for programs supported by Black people by a 9 to 1 margin. In 2016 BLM attempted to get organized and for the first time released a list of demands to the public, but their agenda boiled down to two trivial points. 1). End the war on Black people. 2). Reparations. Then Donald Trump was elected President. Moderates accused BLM of contributing to Hillary Clinton’s loss. BLM disappeared from the national scene and reemerged in 2020 after George Floyd was killed by a police officer in Minnesota. The officers involved were fired and charged with a host of crimes. Even though the system was in operation toward justice, riots and protests broke out across the country. This time the police killing was recorded, and BLM gained more sympathy and support. This led to millions of dollars in donations for BLM causes. Then in 2021, Tamir Rice’s mother started to complain to anyone that would listen. She accused BLM of profiting off her son’s death. She stated she never permitted them to raise money in her son’s name. This year there are reports in right-wing and left-wing news outlets about BLM leaders using millions of dollars in donations for personal use. One headline said BLM secretly bought a $6 million house—Allies and critics alike have questioned where the organization’s money has gone. But missing money isn’t the first red flag. They’ve been there all along.
Another election; so what, too many of you may say If you failed to vote in the most recent election, WHY? Some of the more frequent excuses are what difference does it make, they are all the same. Democrats and Republicans, is there a real difference? And the latest: “I voted twice for a Black president and he was elected and my situation has not improved.” My response usually is to ask these persons do you vote race, political party, or for a person who is a current office holder? The time is long overdue that we become sophisticated intelligent voters. How? We must cease making excuses no matter what our financial, educational, religion, and etc. conditions. We must show the same concern about the election of people to the school board or city coun-
Louis ‘Hop’ Kendrick
To Tell The Truth cil as we do about the Steelers or any other sports team. We spend an unbelievable amount of time and energy discussing Donald Trump and limited amount of effort focusing on the
NAACP, church, Pittsburgh School meetings, and OUR FAMILIES. The upcoming election which would determine whom the legislatures will be in the 19th and 24th districts are the perfect opportunity for the voters to send a message to the party that they do no own the Black voters. There must be some person that you respect enough to value their opinion, ask them. If you asked me I would state that if you vote for a person because they have held the position, that’s not good enough. The most important and overwhelming factors in voting for you and yours are those persons must possess 1. Caring 2. Competency 3. Compassion.
The University of Pittsburgh’s first Black Chancellor On April 7, 2022, Chancellor Patrick Gallagher informed members of the Pitt Community that he intended to step down from his role as Chancellor sometime in the summer of 2023. As the Pitt Board of Trustees prepares to implement this critical administrative transition, everyone should take note of the fact that only White men have served as Pitt’s Chancellors since 1787! Parenthetically, there are many other senior positions at Pitt that have been the sole provinces of Whites. Therefore, now is the time for Pitt to join others in ending centuries of unjust practices related to filling the most senior administrative positions in historically White institutions of higher education. Those seeking to replace Chancellor Gallagher should be mindful of the fact that other institutions have been pacesetters in terms of ending only Whites serving as Chancellor/President. As noted in the January 31, 2022 Chicago Crusader, “… In 2020, we saw the appointments of Jonathan Holloway of Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey; Lynn Wooten of Simmons University in Boston, Massachusetts; Dwight A. McBride of The New School in New York City; Darryll J. Pines of the University of Maryland; Lori White of DePauw University in Green Castle, Indiana; and Gregory Washington of George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. … in 2021, there were more appointments, including William Tate IV at Louisiana State
Jack L. Daniel
Commentary University; Laurie A. Carter at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin; Brian O. Hemphill at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia; Vincent D. Rougeau at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts; and Michael V. Drake at the University of California—one of the largest university systems run by an African American—after he served successfully as president of Ohio State University from 2014 to 2020…” Since Clifton Wharton’s 1970 appointment as President of Michigan State, there have also been Black Chancellors/Presidents at institutions such as Bowling Green State University, University of California, Davis; University of California, Irvine; Brown University; University of Houston; Smith College; Temple University; and, of great significance, the outgoing Black President of University of Maryland Baltimore County was recently followed by a Black woman. Pittsburgh’s Dr. Francine McNairy, a Pitt
graduate, served as President of Millersville University. We are in a season of significant firsts with a Black woman having been elected Vice President of the United States; the appointment of the Supreme Court’s first Black woman; and, locally, Carlow University’s appointment of Dr. Kathy Humphrey as its first Black President as well as the election of Pittsburgh’s first Black Mayor, Ed Gainey. Surely a world class institution such as Pitt can shatter its conspicuous glass ceiling when it comes to the appointment of its next Chancellor. Chancellor Patrick Gallagher has tirelessly championed diversity, inclusion, equity and social justice during his tenure at Pitt. As Chancellor Gallagher would no doubt be first to admit, there remains much to be done to make Pitt what it ought to be in these areas. Significantly, Pitt’s website aptly states, “Reinvention never stops.” What better way to acknowledge and advance Chancellor Gallagher’s work than by making the 18th Chancellor the last White male Chancellor in a row at Pitt? As has been said before when making an urgent call to action, “If not us, who? And if not now, when?” Moreover, as President John F. Kennedy relatedly put the matter, “Every accomplishment starts with the decision to try.” (Jack L. Daniel is Professor and Vice Provost Emeritus, University of Pittsburgh)
Lessons Republicans can learn from Ukraine While Russia brought almost 200,000 troops against the people of the Ukraine, the most impressive thing was not the numbers of the attackers, but the unity of the people who rose up to meet the assault on their culture and their way of life. The Republican Party here in the United States is much like the Russians, attacking a way of life without regard for life or property. The destruction of life and property is much like the assault on our democratic institutions such as the fair election of a President of the United States, according to our own Constitution. Yet, the Republicans, much like the Russians, have no regard for anything that exists outside of their own marching orders. Just take a look at the hearings to nominate Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the United States Supreme Court. Like the Russians looking at the institutions and culture of the Ukraine, yet bent on destruction of the same with no regard for their value, the Republicans understand the value of the U.S. Supreme Court and the
John E. Warren
Commentary importance of those who serve. These same Republican senators have twice voted to confirm Judge Jackson to two courts, yet, this time, Senators like Mitch McConnell and Lindsey Graham, who have voted twice for her in the past, now refuse to vote to confirm this Black woman to the highest Court in the land. To support their insanity, they created concepts like Judicial Philosophy, which have nothing to do with service. Interestingly enough, the Constitution does not even require that a Supreme Court Justice be a lawyer, just get confirmation. As the Russians left and are continuing to leave the bodies of men, women, and children in the streets as symbols
of the human carnage of their war crimes, so are bodies being left in the streets of this country as the result of mass shootings by weapons so many Republicans refuse to outlaw like AK47 assault rifles, which have nothing to do with the Second Amendment Right to keep and bear arms. Yes, like the Russians, the Republicans do not care about the threat to democracy and the way of life it guarantees to all Americans. While some allow the use of bullets others prefer Voter Suppression, the removal of polling sites, and penalties for eating or drinking while waiting in long lines to vote. The good news is that we, the American people, still believe in democracy, our constitution, and equality for all. Like the people of Ukraine, we can unite and fight the inhumane and conspiratorial conduct of our Republican Russians. Like the people of Ukraine, we must rally around democracy and fight with the weapons of our institutions and our votes to remove the Russians among us.
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Neither the time nor the hour Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins dies at age 24 Matthew: 24:36—“But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only.” Last Saturday, April 9, I was a little under the weather. I can’t tell you whether it was my body or my mind that decided that I was going to sleep in. My phone vibrated and I looked at the caller ID and it was my buddy, girlfriend and confidant, Eileen. She went straight to the point. “You sound like you are just gettin’ up,” she said. “I won’t hold you long. I figured since you hadn’t called me that you might not have been up. Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins was killed early this morning. The news reports are saying that it happened a little around 6:30 this morning. He was attempting to walk across the highway, according to the police report. He was pronounced dead at the scene.” To say that I was overwhelmed would be the understatement of these 69 years for me. The only thing that surprised me more is when I found out that you could eat peanut butter without jelly. If I don’t try to smile about it, I may choke on it. Now that Dwayne Haskins has passed on, why are there a few spiritually and empathy deprived folks drudging up an incident that Haskins was involved in when he was fined $40,000 by the NFL franchise formerly known as the Washington Football Team? Haskins was also stripped of his captaincy for not wearing a mask after a Washington loss to the Seattle Seahawks because he was observed partying without a COVID-19 mask. I find that biased penalty remarkable especially after National Public Radio reported on July 1, 2021, that: “the (Washington
Football) team was fined $10 million after a investigation found the team’s workplace culture to be “highly unprofessional,” especially toward female employees.” And to throw salt in the wound, this was in a city that housed a race-baiting President of the United States who said this about the COVID-19 virus according to CNN in October 2020: “It’s [the virus] going to disappear. It is disappearing.” I find it beyond my comprehension that a man who perceived the virus as some sort of flu-like illness and was incompetent enough to suggest that it could
be cured by ingesting household bleach, who was possibly far more responsible for 200,000 American deaths linked to the COVID-19 pandemic, was not stripped of his presidency. Yet they stole $40,000 from one of our babies (yes, Dwayne Haskins at the age of 24 was still a baby) because he went and had a good time without a mask. Donald Trump encouraged millions of American citizens (including himself) to ignore many mask mandates. Now that he has died, forget about Dwayne Haskins Jr., the football player, because the village of mankind has reclaimed him. Think of his father, Dwayne Haskins Sr., his mother Tamara and younger sister Tamia. Grieve with Kalabrya Gon-
drezick-Haskins, 25, his wife. They were married since March 19, 2021. But guess what? The “reputation assassins” still have their venomous pens poised to strike trying to drudge up a dated domestic violence report. A few quarterbacks (including a future NFL Hall-of-Famer or two) have been accused of and even charged with domestic violence violations and even violence against women. There are voices that won’t even allow Mrs. Kalabrya Gondrezick-Haskins the time to breathe, let alone grieve. His wife is also one of our babies. We must now support him in death and her as she continues on with her life, just as much as those that, for no valid reason, opposed him in life. Many of the Pittsburgh Steelers fans gave former Steelers/Jaguars quarterback Joshua Dobbs grief when he was retained by the Steelers on two separate occasions. Many of them reacted only as true phonies would when Dobbs signed a deal with the Cleveland Browns to compete for the backup quarterback spot behind DeShaun Watson, the former Houston Texans star QB. There were a few fans that acted as if they were sorry to see Dobbs depart the Steel City to compete for a backup quarterback spot for the “city by the lake.” Oh yeah? You mean like, sorry that Dobbs didn’t go sooner? The tragic demise of Dwayne Haskins is light years away from the football field. This horrible story is about life and death which is certainly real and should not be minimized or toyed with by anyone, anytime or anywhere, period; not for ratings, not for advertising dollars or to be endeared by any demographic of people. Let’s be real. A few Pittsburgh Steelers fans never have and most likely will never be comfortable with an African
DWAYNE HASKINS American starting quarterback: not in 1962 or 2022. Dwayne Haskins began being vilified by many in Pittsburgh before the ink had dried on his contract with the Steelers. There were folks that stirred and created dissent when Dwayne Haskins initially stepped into the Steelers’ South Side facility. Many of those same folks will continue to find fault with him, even in death. The Holy Scriptures warn us that:
“concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only.” Why? Well, because it is said in the Swahili language that: chochote utakachomimina kwenye kikombe lazima unywe pia: “Whatever you pour into the cup (for others), you must also drink,” because before you know it, the hour may be upon you.
Steelers Quarterback Dwayne Haskins... Gone too soon :10—By now, like the rest of the world, you know about the tragic and somewhat strange accidental death of Steelers backup QB Dwayne Haskins. Tthe 2018 Heisman Award finalist and Ohio State superstar was reported to have been struck and killed by a dump truck Saturday morning, April 9, while attempting to cross the westbound lanes of Interstate 595 on foot in South Florida. The 24-yearold Steelers quarterback had just resigned with the organization in March. Dwayne Haskins, gone too soon. :09—When it comes to golf, well, you know...That being said, Scottie Scheffler, the hottest thing in golf since Tiger Woods in his prime, won the Masters Sunday, April 10, with a phenomenal score of -10. Scheffler, winner of four tournaments already this year including the Masters, has also earned an incredible $10 million in prize money so far. Although unlikely to continue this hot streak all season, the 25-year-old New Jersey native is the No. 1 ranked golfer in the world and will be the betting favorite for the next major, The PGA Championship in May at Southern Hills Country Club in Tulsa, Oklahoma. And as a footnote to any of you that watched the final round Sunday, when Rory Mcilroy reached -7 on the 13th with the par 5 15th hole looming, were you thinking for just a minute that just maybe Rory would shoot a 62, a 61, a 60 and
win The Masters with the greatest closing round ever in a major? As it was, Rory shot a record-tying 64 and finished second to Scottie, a legendary round of golf even without the victory. :08—Props obviously go to the Tiger, No. 1 for showing up, No. 2, for making the cut and No. 3, for finishing. None of which were even a possibility 500 days ago or for that matter a week ago for the less informed. But for a 46-yearold man who has had more back surgeries than Kim Kardashian has had husbands (I’m sorry, for some reason I couldn’t help myself there!), he is to be applauded. And Lord knows the motivation he sent out on this comeback could light up New York City! :07—A few names for you here. Byron Morant is a former City League triple threat Hall of Famer to be... His brother Lenny Morant is a former City League basketball superstar and one of the city’s great skywalkers and I am proud to say one of my
first Jr. League players that put me on the map. Also, you know the NBA phenom now known as Ja Morant? Well, he’s their family - and if you know anything about the Morants you’re not surprised. That’s how they - Roll!! Talented, focused, quiet, offthe-chart skills and will leave you shaking your head in your armchair wondering what just happened. The Morants - the legend continues. :06—Stephen A. Smith proclaims Michael Jordan the G.O.A.T. and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar #2 with LeBron #3. At a zillion dollars a year salary he almost got it right - Wilt Chamberlain #3, Kobe #4 and Dr. J #5. End of story. :05—Hey, hey, you there... this just in... your Pittsburgh Pirates just won their first game of the season, the third game of the series on Sunday, April 10, against the St. Louis Cardinals. The Pirates had their home-opener on Tuesday, April 12, against the Cubs. Just think, they’re on their way to another scintillating 60-win season! :04—Here’s how I am now confirmed as old... I can’t name the starting five of one
NBA team. Not one. There was a time I could have named them all, man! :03—As an expert on hockey - just kidding - our perennial playoff team, the Penguins, just broke out of a four-game slide on the back of none other than Sidney Crosby with a clutch two-goal, one-assist game including the overtime game-winning goal against the Nashville Predators, Sunday, April 10. The Penguins have seven games left in the regular season. More on the Pens when the playoffs begin in a couple weeks. :02—Speaking of old - tell me you don’t miss the fight game? No, not that - this Well, you know, the real fight game. We’re talking Ali, Frazier, Holmes, Norton, Foreman, Shavers, Bugner, Lyle, Tyson, Hagler, Sugar Ray, Duran, Hearns, De La Hoya, Monzon, Pryor, Arguello just to name a few. Tell - Me - You - Don’t - Miss - That. Yeah you do!! :01—Ketanji Brown Jackson - the name will be on our tongues and in our ears for the next 30 or so years, thankfully, the first Black woman to join the Supreme Court, as promised by President Joe Biden. Confirmed Thursday, April 7, history was made despite the completely disrespectful, disingenuous members of the Republican Senate by a 53-47 vote with only three Republicans able to sift through the hyper-partisanship and do the right thing. :00—GAME OVER.
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HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH INVITATION FOR BID (IFB) FOR HOMEWOOD NORTH WATER INFILTRATION REMEDIATION – BUILDING#5, AMP-20 -REBID HACP IFB NO. 600-28-21-REBID THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH will receive sealed bids for the Homewood North Water Infiltration Remediation – Building#5 – AMP 20 The construction work is estimated to begin in Summer of 2022. Bid Documents will be available on or about Monday, April 4, 2022 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. Electronic versions of the Bid Documents, including bid forms, project manual, and drawings can be picked up in person, (by appointment) Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 100 Ross Street, Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Steve Graziani, Project Manager 412-320-6080 A Pre-Bid Conference and Site Visit will be held on Thursday, April 14, 2022 at 10:00 a.m.: Homewood North Community Room 10 Albertice Street Pittsburgh, PA 15208 Bidders shall come prepared to review all aspects of the construction site necessary to prepare a bid. Bids will be received at: HACP Procurement Department 100 Ross Street, Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Attn: Kim Detrick, Director of Procurement until 10:00 a.m. May 12, 2022 at which time and place all bids will be received. HACP will also accept online submissions for this Invitation for Bid in addition to accepting submissions at our 100 Ross Street office. For respondents wishing to submit online, please access the instructions provided in the project manual to submit the bid digitally. In addition to the electronic submittal above, The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will only be accepting physical bids dropped off in person from 8:00 AM until the bid opening time of 10:00 AM on May 12, 2022 in the lobby of 100 Ross St.n Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Sealed bids may still be mailed via USPS at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. All bids must be received at the above address no later than May 12, 2022 at 10:00 a.m., regardless of the selected delivery mechanism. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH reserves the right to waive any informality in, or reject any and all bids. No bid shall be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days subsequent to the opening of bids without the consent of the HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH. The Contractor will be required to comply with all applicable Equal Employment Opportunity requirements for Federally Assisted Construction Contracts. The Contractor must ensure that employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sexual preference, handicap or national origin. HACP has revised its website. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and log-in, in order to view and download IFB/RFP documentation. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH STRONGLY ENCOURAGES CERTIFIED MINORITY-OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES AND WOMAN-OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES TO RESPOND TO THE SOLICITATION. Additional information may be obtained by contacting Kim Detrick, Director of Procurement at (412) 456-5116 Opt 1. Caster D. Binion, Executive Director HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH
HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.
OFFICIAL BID NOTICE TOWNSHIP OF UPPER ST. CLAIR Sealed and separate bids will be re ce i v ed by t he Tow n s h i p o f Upper St. Clair, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania until 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, May 17, 2022, and the BIDS will be publicly opened and read thereafter in the Lower Level Training Room in the Township Building at the same address for the following: COMMUNITY & RECREATION CENTER ROOFTOP UNIT #5 REPLACEMENT Please refer to https://www.twpusc.org/business/ bid_information.php, for details regarding specifications and Bidding requirements. Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager ANNOUNCEMENTS Meetings
ALLEGHENY REGIONAL ASSET DISTRICT CORRECTION OF DATES Remaining 2022 RAD Board Meetings will be held at 3PM 6/2, 9/29, 11/29. Visit www.radworkshere.org for meeting logistics including public participation procedures.
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HUZIAK, KAREN MARIE, AKA KAREN M. HUZIAK, Deceased, of West Mifflin, PA, No. 022202187 of 2022.Paula R. Metzger (administrator), 3220 Brownsville Road, Pittsburgh, PA. 15227 Estate of EDWARD GEORGE KERTIS, Deceased, of West Mifflin, PA, No. 00131 of 2019, Jeffrey W. Kertis, ADM, 212 Nantucket Dr., Pittsburgh, PA 15236 or to c/o Andrew C. Goodermote, Esquire, Scolieri Law Group, P.C. Attys. 1207 Fifth Avenue, Suite 200 Bldg., Pittsburgh, PA 15219 NOTICE OF TRUST ADMINISTRATION The Trustee below gives notice of the death of Vivian B. Lesnett, late of McDonald, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, who died on March 1, 2022. During her lifetime, the said Decedent established the Vivian B. Lesnett Trust under Trust Instrument dated May 25, 1988, as the same has been amended. The Trustee requests all persons having claims against the Decedent to make known the same in writing to him or his attorney, and all persons indebted to the Decedent to make payment to him without delay: Thomas J. Lesnett, Sr., Trustee 408 Sir James Drive McDonald, PA 15057 or to: Robin L. Rarie, Atty. Brenlove & Fuller, LLC. 401 Washington Avenue Bridgeville, PA 15017
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ALLIES & ROSS MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION OF NORTHVIEW MIDRISE IFB NO. 2022-37-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 January 2023. The estimated values of the project are in the following ranges General Construction: $4,929,336.00 - $6,934,274.00; Electrical Construction: $517,574.00 - $625,351.00; Plumbing Construction: $1,278,640.00 $1,544,898.00; Mechanical Construction: $1,379,626.00 - $1,666,913.00 Bid Documents will be available on or about Monday, April 4, 2022 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, April 14, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. virtually at the following link: Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/96561794778?pwd=cDRhOHd2VU5kblRTMi81WXRTYTV5dz09 Meeting ID: 965 6179 4778 Passcode: 193021 One tap mobile +13017158592,,96561794778#,,,,*193021# US (Washington DC) +13017158592,,93645753832#,,,,*302603# US (Washington DC) Bids will be received at: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) Procurement Department 100 Ross Street, Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Attn: Kim Detrick, Director of Procurement until 10:00 a.m. Thursday, May 12, 2022 at which time and place all bids will be received. Bids will be received at: Allies & Ross Management and Development Corporation will only be accepting physical proposals dropped off in person from 8:00 AM until the closing of 10:00 AM on May 12, 2022 at the HACP Procurement Department, 100 Ross Street, Suite 200, Pittsburgh PA 15219 Attn: Kim Detrick, Chief Procurement Officer. Due to COVID, the bid opening on May 12, 2022 at 10:00AM will be conducted virtually via Zoom. Zoom link: https://zoom. us/j/92650474826?pwd=b25yenZIQXF3WEswdUkxMzVKWndidz09. 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 only be accepting physical proposals dropped off in person on May 12, 2022 from 8:00 AM until the closing of 10:00 AM on May 12, 2022. Bids may still be submitted electronically at the following link: https://www.dropbox.com/request/E2YYRSmjyTVWbEglUo8r and can still be mailed via USPS at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200, 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.
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) FOR SECURITY CAMERA MAINTENANCE AND SUPPORT REBID RFP# 350-20-21-REBID The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request proposals from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): The documents will be available no later than April 11, 2022 and signed, sealed proposals will be accepted until: 10:00 A.M. on May 3, 2022 The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will only be accepting physical proposals dropped off in person from 8:00 AM until the closing time of 10:00 AM on May 3, 2022 in the lobby of 100 Ross St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Proposals may uploaded to the Authority’s online submission site, the link is accessible via the HACP website and within the RFP. Sealed proposals may still be mailed via USPS at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200, 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 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-643-2832 A pre-submission meeting will be held via Zoom meeting; on April 21, 2022 at 10:00 A.M. Please see meeting information below: Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom.us/ j/81103771665?pwd=dytIZWhx OEtIQXdXQ1BOdGl1aEY4dz09 Meeting ID: 811 0377 1665 Passcode: 826633 +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington D.C) 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. Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.
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HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR COMBUSTION AND HOT WATER SERVICES IFB #300-04-22 The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby requests bids from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): Combustion and Hot Water Services IFB #300-04-22 The documents will be available no later than April 4, 2022 and signed, sealed bids will be accepted until 9:00 AM on May 3, 2022 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 9:00 AM on May 3, 2022 in the lobby of 100 Ross St. 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 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200, 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 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-643-2832 A pre-submission meeting will be held via Zoom meeting; on April 19, 2022 at 9:00 AM. Please see meeting information below: Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom. us/j/97877144507?pwd=UXZjW jVZNFp4TDFIcW1URW1wYUJGdz09 Meeting ID: 978 7714 4507 Passcode: 950967 +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington D.C) 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. Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.
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SENIOR SOFTWARE ENGINEER Aurora Innovation, Inc. seeks Senior Software Engineer in Pittsburgh, PA to develop/evaluate localization + mapping SW algorithms/ systems for autonomous vehicles. Email resumes to Mary Ellen Mahoney at memahoney@aurora.tech and include REF#00107. CITY EDITOR The New Pittsburgh Courier is seeking a highly motivated individual with a sense of urgency in developing engaging general news and feature content to be our City Editor. The successful candidate must be an engaging storyteller with strong reporting, writing, and editing skills and the ability to work within a fast-paced production and marketing environment while maintaining high ethical standards and meeting deadlines. Our ideal candidate should also be able to produce quality photographs to supplement their stories and have graphic layout skills. Duties will include: working with editorial leadership to determine priorities for daily news coverage and reporting geared towards the Black community for both digital and print publication; and daily collaboration across a close-knit team, assisting leadership in the planning and managing of day-to-day operations, proofreading and editing copy for compliance with policies, style, and tone; and attending events, panels and speaking engagements on behalf of the publication. This is a full-time position offering compensation commensurate to experience. Excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO, and more. Please send a letter of interest and resume to webmaster@newpittsburghcourier. com
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Help Wanted
Help Wanted
SPECIAL ASSISTANT TO THE CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER Port Authority is seeking a Special Assistant to the CSO to be responsible for the management and implementation of various administrative processes and programs that directly impact the Strategy Department’s internal business processes. The position performs duties that encompass a wide variety of Port Authority programs and a range of issues dealing with organizational change, organizational culture, strategic planning, interdepartmental activities, and professional communication. The position reports directly to the Chief Strategy Officer and involves maintaining a high degree of confidentiality, trust, and relationship building Essential Functions: • Lead and/or serve on ad hoc coordinating committees as a representative of the CSO. Prepare documentary materials for use and/ or approval by the CSO in appearances before community groups, committees, State and local partners, and interagency meetings. • Participate in and carry out a variety of sensitive assignments that are usually of a complex nature cutting across several departments for Port Authority. You will be required to have foundati onal know l edge about P ort A uthori ty and i ts interrelationship with the Department of Transportation, State, and local transportation agencies. You will propose and take appropriate action to handle issues and resolve matters independently, or without direct participation from the CSO or other staff members. Job requirements include: • BA/BS Degree in Business Administration, public administration or directly related field from an accredited school. Directly related experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis. • Ideal candidate will possess a minimum of three (3) years of paid, unpaid, or volunteer experience leading key organizational activities, managing multiple tasks, and liaising coordinated activities directly for a member of a senior leadership team or executive within a company or business. • Valid driver’s license is required. • Ability to identify problem areas and evaluate, recommend, and implement solutions to resolve complex organizational challenges. • Ability to establish cooperative relationships with internal and external stakeholders • Strong written and verbal communication skills; strong listening skills. • Strong presentation skills and the ability to communicate to diverse set of stakeholders • Ability to work well without close supervision and demonstrates initiative. • Ability to manage multiple tasks.
PLANNING INTERN Port Authority is seeking a Planning Intern ($16 hour) to support transitoriented development, multimodal and station area planning, community engagement, best practice research, and other types of projects to advance Port Authority’s TransitOriented Communities work plan. Essential Functions: • Assists with various activities, including project development, research, analysis, and implementation. • Assists with ongoing progress of transit-oriented development and other place-based planning efforts. • Assists with analysis and GIS work for transit-oriented development, multimodal planning, or other projects as needed. • Assists with the review and preparation of public materials. • Works with Port Authority staff to respond to requests for information. Job requirements include: • A college degree or be enrolled in a college degree program in planning, urban design, architecture, information sciences, engineering, or a related field of study. A master’s candidate is preferred. • Ability to use GIS software, Microsoft software, and the internet. • Ability to conduct thorough and organized research. • Excellent written and verbal communication skills. • Ability to complete assigned tasks with minimal supervision. Preferred attributes: • Experience in urban planning, community engagement, engineering, or real estate. • Ability to use Adobe Creative Cloud software.
ASSOCIATE OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, SAFETY & TRAINING OFFICER Port Authority is seeking an Associate Occupational Health, Safety & Training Officer to implement and provide training on SMS, occupational safety and health, industrial hygiene and other safety aspects of rail and bus operations as well as work closely with Manager to learn all aspects of OHS&T as they relate to operations at Port Authority Essential Functions: • Develops, coordinates and conducts effective training relating to occupational safety and health programs that include but not limited to; employee right-to-know, hazardous materials and hazardous waste awareness, respiratory protection, hearing conservation, personnel protective equipment, Automated External Defibrillators (AED), bloodborne pathogens, and others as required. (40%) • Work with operations and maintenance instruction department to ensure development of identified training programs and curriculums. • Ensure SMS training is provided to all key employees and staff as directed by Chief Safety Officer. • Provides status reports of training activity on a quarterly basis or as requested by the Manager of OHS. • Provide respiratory protection training and conduct fit tests on employees involved in the respiratory protection program. • Train safety officers as required in specific OSH elements. • Provide Department of Transportation Hazardous Materials Transportation training as required by the DOT. • Work with the safety officers to develop and provide automated external defibrillator (AED) awareness training to employees. Job requirements include: • BA/BS degree in Industrial Hygiene, Occupational Safety and Health Sciences, Environmental Science/ Engineering or related field. • Minimum of two (2) years of experience in Occupational Health & Safety, Safety, Industrial Hygiene, or related area, preferable in the transit industry. • Minimum of two (2) years’ experience delivering, and facilitating educational, informational and job/task programs for adults. • Effective and professional verbal and written communication skills. • Handles multiple tasks and adheres to deadlines. • Valid driver’s license. • Demonstrated ability in the use of Windows, Microsoft Excel and Word. • Availability on a 24-hour per day, 7 day per week basis. Preferred attributes: • Qualified Accident and Injury Prevention Provider as defined by Pennsylvania Worker’s Compensation Regulations.
We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Interested candidates should forward a cover letter (with salary requirements) and resume to: Missy Ramsey Employment Department 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 MRamsey@portauthority.org EOE
Missy Ramsey Employment Department 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 MRamsey@portauthority.org EOE
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COURIER CLASSIFIEDS To place a display ad in the New Pittsburgh Courier call 412-481-8302 ext. 128 or 129
www.newpittsburghcourieronline.com
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JOB OPPORTUNITIES MANAGER OF ORGANIZATIONAL EXCELLENCE The Strategy Division is launching a comprehensive continuous improvement program. The Manager of Organizational Excellence will have the opportunity to shape this program and build a team to execute a transformation of the way Port Authority works and deliver services as an organization. The successful candidate will lead training and enterprise performance functions throughout the Port Authority at all levels, from front-line employees to executive leadership, based on Lean and similar process improvement methods. The Manager of Organizational Excellence will be expected to develop, implement, and manage complex programs that integrates multiple elements or programs to achieve organizational excellence. Essential Functions: • Develop, manage and facilitate key processes and tools for identifying, prioritizing, resource planning and executing initiatives and projects that support the Strategic Plan. • Participates in strategic planning efforts. Monitors data and identifies trends and patterns, analyzes best value propositions, and recommends enhanced or new solutions. Leads analytical efforts on special projects to improve operating efficiency from business and technical perspectives. Develops reports, feasibility studies, and briefings on specific issues. • Leads multidisciplinary teams of employees to synthesize, clarify, define and document business requirements and processes. Evaluates requirements and processes and recommends feasible solutions. Job requirements include: • Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university with major coursework in Business, Public Administration, or other related field plus five (5) years of increasingly responsible work experience in performance analytics, enterprise ri s k m a n a g e m ent and/or data management research in a government or private setting, three (3) years of which were in a managerial capacity. • Valid driver’s license is required. Preferred attributes: • Ideal candidate will possess a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt or a Master Black Belt certification. • Experience in assessing and creating management systems that support a culture of continuous improvement • Experience using Power of Business Intelligence or similar software platforms or applications • Experience leading highly diverse teams in a broad array of projects/ subjects • Knowledge of program management. • Knowledge of supervisory and managerial techniques and principles. •E x c e l l e n t o r a l a n d w r i t t e n communications and attention to detail. • Skill in strategic planning, coordinating, and implementing programs and activities. •Skill in interpreting, organizing, coordinating, and executing assignments, projects, and programs. • Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing. • Skill in data analysis and problem solving. • Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities. • Ability to establish and maintain trust and good working relationships with Port Authority staff, management, board members, and the public. • Ability to exercise good judgment, tact, and diplomacy in all dealings and maintain confidentiality as required. • Keen ability to drive work independently with little direction. • Ability to quickly become well versed in the subject matter. • Experience with placing high value on the customer experience.
APRIL 13-19, 2022
315 East Carson Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Classifieds 412-481-8302 Ext. 140 E-mail: ads@newpittsburghcourier.com Deadline/Closing/Cancellation Schedule for copy, corrections, and
cancellations: Friday noon preceding Wednesday publication
Interested candidates should forward a cover letter and resume to: Taylor McBride Employment Department 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 TMcbride@portauthority.org EOE CLERK OF COURT The United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania seeks a dedicated and experienced executive for the position of Clerk of Court. The Clerk of Court serves as the Court Unit Executive of the Court, supporting all the judges of the Court by overseeing and leading the Court’s extensive administrative and operational functions. Specifically, the Clerk of Court oversees Clerk’s Office staff; manages the operating budget; is the custodian of court records; and oversees the performance of the statutory and other duties of the office. The position has a salary range of $135,355 $211,384. The position will commence on or after May 16, 2022. To be qualified for appointment as Clerk of Court, a candidate must possess at least a bachelor ’s degree from an accredited college or university and have a minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible administrative experience in public service or the private sector that provides the candidate with a thorough understanding of organizational, procedural and human aspects of managing an organization. At least 3 of the 10 years of experience must have been in a position that required substantial management responsibility, involving high level administrative experience that typically includes responsibilities involving financial management, human resources and information technology, space and facilities planning, and overall long and short-range planning. Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or eligible to work in the United States. The successful candidate for this position is subject to an FBI fingerprint check and background investigation and must sign a consent for an IRS tax check and consumer report review. See detailed job description, required qualifications and instructions for applying at: www.pawd.uscourts.gov (Court Info – Employment). The Court is an Equal Opportunity Employer
COURIER CLASSIFIEDS
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JOB OPPORTUNITIES
We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Interested candidates should forward a cover letter (with salary requirements) and resume to: Danielle Jacobson Employment Department 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 DJacobson@portauthority.org EOE
To place a display ad in the New Pittsburgh Courier call 412-481-8302 ext. 128
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APRIL 13-19, 2022
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
BETHLEHEM BAPTIST CHURCH BESTOWS HONORS TO IMPACTFUL PITTSBURGHERS
THE HONOREES—Top left and across are: Bellevue Mayor Val Pennington, Rep. Austin Davis, Wilkinsburg Mayor Dontae Comans, Judge Elliot Howsie, Homestead Mayor John Burwell. Second row: Judge Nicola Henry-Taylor, Judge Tiffany Sizemore, Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey, President Judge Kim Berkeley Clark, Rankin Mayor Joelisa Mcdonald, former KDKA-TV reporter Harold Hayes. Bottom row: Bridgeville Mayor Betty Copeland, Judge Cynthia Baldwin, Judge Wrenna Watson, Rep. Summer Lee, and North Braddock Mayor Cletus Lee. The event was held, Feb. 20. (Photos by Courier photographer J.L. Martello)
PRESIDENT JUDGE KIM CLARK GIVING BLACK HISTORY FACTS. JOB OPPORTUNITIES Help Wanted
VEHICLE PROJECT COORDINATOR Port Authority is seeking a Vehicle Project Coordinator to be responsible for development and management of programs and projects required to procure revenue vehicles required by Port Authority to provide service for current and future operational needs. This position also works closely with the Bus Maintenance Support Department on technical related issues and maintenance incidents for investigation and engineering support. Essential Functions: • Develops and manages programs for the procurement of the number and types of vehicles needed by the Operations Division to meet service demands. This will include preparation of complete specifications with special and general conditions and technical and schedule requirement. Specification technical requirements are to be developed in conjunction with the Manager of Vehicle Projects and the Manager of Bus Maintenance and other departments, as required. • Reviews and evaluates manufacturers’ requests for changes. Prepares recommendations regarding approval or disapproval for review of executive management in accordance with established Port Authority and department administrative procedures. Prepares contract change orders as required. Reviews and recommends for payment, invoices received from the manufacturer. • Investigates maintenance incidents, such as accidents, fires, or other unforeseen failures to determine and report upon cause and corrective action needed. Job requirements include: • BS in Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Automotive, or related Engineering or Technology fields from an accredited school. Demonstrated experience may be substituted for education on a year-for-year basis. • Minimum of two (2) years in either a management or a senior role position in charge of work or service delegation. • Minimum of eight (8) years of accumulative experience in the fields of specification creation/editing, as well as manufacturing and maintenance of vehicle equipment (preferably transit vehicle equipment). • Demonstrated ability in the use of Windows, Microsoft Word, and Excel. • Professional and effective communication skills. • Ability to function as a team player and work harmoniously with other people. • Valid PA driver’s license. Preferred attributes: • Four (4) years supervisory/management experience in bus and/or transit vehicle maintenance.
REV. EARLENE COLEMAN
JOB OPPORTUNITIES Help Wanted
RECRUITER Port Authority is seeking a Recruiter to administer employment and recruitment activities for assigned positions. Maintains employment records, generates employment reports/statistics, and inputs data into PeopleSoft. Administers validated testing. Essential Functions: • Utilizes PeopleSoft HRMS to do the following: • Create and maintain job requisitions. • Enters Applicant Personal Data, Education, License, Membership, Competency and other information. • Schedule and track applicants and interviews. • Maintain applicant records. • Track job offers and maintain appropriate documentation. • Process and enter new employee information. • Administers employment processes for assigned positions, including recruitment, testing, interviewing and investigations. Conducts background checks on perspective candidates which includes various communications to verify education, previous and current employers. Utilizes the internet to conduct criminal record check and motor vehicle record status. Enters and tracks data in PeopleSoft. Extends contingent job offers and maintains appropriate documentation. Ensures that required employment activities are satisfactorily processed before finalizing hiring actions. Coordinates and conducts new hire orientation. Job requirements include: • High School Diploma or GED. • BA/BS degree in Human Resources Management, Industrial Relations, Business Administration or related field from an accredited school. Related experience may be substituted for the education on a year-for-year basis. • Minimum of three (3) years of experience interviewing, recruitment and employment processes with familiarity with union contractual matters. • Demonstrated knowledge of Employment/EEO laws and practices. • Effective and professional communication skills. • Demonstrated ability in the use of Windows and Microsoft Word. Preferred attributes: • Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) Certification from the Society for Human Resources Management. • Prior PeopleSoft experience. • Demonstrated ability in the use of Microsoft Excel.
We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Interested candidates should forward a cover letter (with salary requirements) and resume to:
We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Interested candidates should forward a cover letter (with salary requirements) and resume to:
Chase Morack Employment Department 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 CMorack@portauthority.org EOE
Holly A. Jenkins Employment Department 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 HJenkins@portauthority.org EOE
THE EMCEE, STATE REP. AUSTIN DAVIS.
JUDGE CYNTHIA BALDWIN INTRODUCES THE HONOREES.
MAYOR ED GAINEY GIVING THE KEYNOTE SPEECH.