Esther Bush. Chris Moore. Sala Udin. Tim Stevens. Talk about icons in the City of Pittsburgh.
The political arena. The financial/non-profit sector. The spoken word. Collectively, the four aforementioned African Americans have more than 150 years of service and impact in the Pittsburgh region.
Collectively, they have not only spoken out against injustices involving African Americans, but they have created change for the better in the region for Black people.
Pittsburgh Mayor Ed
Gainey, one could say, stands on the shoulders of these iconic figures. The city's first Black mayor paid homage to Bush, Moore, Udin and Stevens by presenting them each with "Keys to the City" during the WAMO Radio (107.3 FM) annual "WAMO Day" celebration at Highland Park, June 28. It's the
by Rob Taylor Jr. Courier Staff Writer
Whether it was real or just a myth, a plethora of Pittsburgh city officials, community groups and anti-violence organizations rallied over the past week against any notion or possibility that the city's "Stop the Violence Fund," which allocates money to said anti-violence organizations to try to quell violence before it starts, would be cut from the city budget.
No one in Pittsburgh City Council will own up to who floated the idea of getting rid of the fund altogether...that is, if anyone actually did so in the first place. But on Tuesday, July 8, all members of Pittsburgh City Council voted to "in-
crease oversight" of the Stop The Violence Fund, while any talk of actually getting rid of it was a non-issue.
And that's a win for Mayor Ed Gainey and the two primary proponents of the fund on City Council, R. Daniel Lavelle and Khari Mosley.
The Stop The Violence Fund began in 2020 in the wake of the George Floyd death in Minneapolis. While some groups nationwide discussed "defunding the police," in Pittsburgh, those like Councilman Lavelle proposed the idea of creating a separate fund that would provide financial resources to local anti-violence organizations and groups to help prevent violence in Pitts-
Sen. Tim Scott is wrong—The
displaces Black communities
by Stacy M. Brown Black Press USA Senior National Correspondent
The legislation President Donald Trump signed into law on July 4—celebrated by Republican Sen. Tim Scott as a milestone of “fiscal responsibility” and “opportunity”—is, in fact, a sprawling blueprint for further concentrating wealth, destabilizing public schools, and stripping resources from Black communities. While Scott touted the bill as a transformative achievement for American families, independent analyses paint a different picture. The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget projects the law will add trillions to the deficit over the next decade, driven by permanent corporate tax cuts and expanded defense spending. That debt load will almost certainly trigger future demands to slash Medicaid, SNAP, and housing assistance programs essential to millions of Black families.
Scott, who is Black, repeatedly claimed that the law delivers tax relief to working people; however, the Tax Policy Center estimates that the wealthiest 1 percent of households will collect the majority of tax benefits, averaging more than $60,000 per year. By contrast, the average middle-income household—where most Black families fall—will see only temporary, modest reductions, many of which expire in five years. Among the most dangerous provisions is the permanent ex-
pansion of the Opportunity Zone program, which Scott called “maximizing community impact.” Multiple studies, including those by the Government Accountability Office and the Brookings Institution, have found that Opportunity Zones have largely failed to reduce poverty or lift incomes for residents. Instead, they have accelerated gentrification, pushing long-time Black families and small businesses out of their neighborhoods as investors rush in to extract profit. The law’s new permanent school choice tax credit has been framed as a lifeline for low-income children, but the reality is that it primarily benefits those who are already able to afford private school tuition. Public education researchers have warned that this diversion of public funding will deepen educational disparities that trap Black students in under-resourced schools while wealthier families receive tax subsidies. The repeal of Section 899, a tax provision that imposed penalties on certain foreign-owned corporations, was labeled by Scott as a job creator. Yet tax policy experts agree there is no evidence this giveaway will generate employment. What is certain is that multinational corporations will pocket billions in tax savings, while Black workers are left to hope for trickle-down benefits that rarely materialize. Even as lawmakers made corporate tax cuts permanent, they allowed the expanded Child Tax Cred-
it—responsible for record reductions in Black child poverty in recent years—to remain expired. In its place, the law provides structural tax advantages to investors and business owners, making it more difficult for Black families to build wealth or afford rising housing costs. The result is a sweeping law that strengthens systemic inequities under the banner of prosperity. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries put it bluntly: “The One Big Ugly Bill hurts everyday Americans and rewards billionaires. It’s the largest attack on healthcare in American history. More than 17 million people will lose their healthcare as a result… folks are going to die across the United States of America.”
Medicaid enrollees targeted for forced farm work under Trump immigration crackdown
by Stacy M. Brown Black Press USA Senior National Correspondent
A top Trump administration official is proposing what critics call a thinly veiled form of forced labor, suggesting that millions of low-income Americans on Medicaid should be used to replace undocumented immigrants the government is deporting en masse from U.S. farms. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins laid out the administration’s vision in blunt terms on Tuesday. “There will be no amnesty. The mass deportations continue, but in a strategic way,” Rollins told reporters after meeting with Republican governors. “We move the workforce towards automation and 100 percent American participation, which, again, with 34 million people—able-bodied
adults on Medicaid—we should be able to do that fairly quickly.” She added, “Ultimately, the answer on this is automation, also some reform within the current governing structure. And then also, when you think about it, there are 34 million able-bodied adults in our Medicaid program. There are plenty of workers in America.” The remarks echo proposals President Donald Trump himself has floated in recent months, including a plan to compel farmers to house and supervise migrant laborers to avoid ICE raids directly—an arrangement many civil rights experts have warned resembles indentured servitude. Rollins’ suggestion goes further, signaling the administration wants to turn Medicaid enrollment—a health insurance lifeline—into a de facto roster of people to be mobilized for field work.
Health policy experts say this is not only an assault on the safety net but an attack on basic civil rights. Medicaid exists to provide healthcare for people living in poverty, not to support an unpaid or underpaid agricultural workforce. Data show that the policy would hit Black Americans especially hard. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, Black individuals make up nearly 19 percent of Medicaid enrollees under 65, despite being about 13 percent of the total U.S. population. In many states, including Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi, the share is far higher. Medicaid finances nearly 41 percent of all births nationwide and covers over 30 percent of Black Americans overall. Critics also point out that the policy would primarily target women and children: nearly half of Medicaid enrollees are under 19 years old, and many adults in the program are mothers or caregivers. In 2023, about 47.6 percent of Medicaid enrollees were adults between 19 and 64,
This Week In Black History A Courier Staple
• JULY 9
1863—Eight Black regiments play a major role as Union troops capture Port Hudson in Louisiana. They had laid siege to the Confederate fortress since May 23. The victory, along with the July 4 capture of Vicksburg, Miss., gave U.S. forces control of the Mississippi River, cut the Confederate army in half and laid the foundation for ending the Civil War. The Civil War would drag on for another two years but the Confederate troops fighting to maintain slavery were never able to recover from the loss of Port Hudson.
1893—Dr. Daniel Hale Williams performs the first successful open heart surgery in American history. He repaired a knife wound to the heart of one James Cornish. Cornish would go on to live for another 20 years. Williams established himself as one of the foremost African American surgeons in the history of this nation. In addition to the surgery, his achievements were many. Born in 1856 in Hollidaysburg, Pa., he was appointed surgeon general of Freedman’s (now Howard University) Hospital in Washington, D.C. He taught at Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tenn. He was a surgeon at Cook County Hospital in Chicago and he founded Provident Hospital in Chicago where he trained many of the nation’s early Black doctors and nurses. Williams also co-founded the predominantly Black National Medical Association.
2009—Reports first emerge suggesting that Haiti was beginning to conquer its HIV/AIDS epidemic. According to UNAIDS, the official AIDS infection rate on the poverty-ridden Caribbean island for people ages 15-49 was 2.2 percent—down from a high of nearly 8 percent in the 1980s. The decline was attributed to the closing of blood banks, where the poor sold their blood for money; the work of the Boston-based Partners in Health; and Haiti’s own GHESKIO clinic.
• JULY 10
including millions of people with disabilities and chronic illnesses. “This is state-sanctioned exploitation,” said a policy researcher who reviewed Rollins’ comments. “They are literally talking about rounding up the poorest Americans—disproportionately Black and brown—and telling them to replace deported immigrants in the fields. That’s not a jobs program. That’s forced labor.”
Even among the working-age adults enrolled in Medicaid, many are already employed in lowwage jobs that do not offer insurance. Others are caretakers or people with severe health conditions. Federal law does not require Medicaid recipients to accept any form of employment as a condition of coverage. Farmers themselves have warned that the administration’s deportation and labor policies will trigger food shortages and economic chaos. Growers across the country rely on immigrant workers to harvest crops—labor that is already among the most dangerous and poorly paid in the U.S. Some of Trump’s allies have promoted proposals to require farms to lodge and monitor their remaining migrant workforce, raising alarms about “company town” conditions that legal experts say blur the line between employment and captivity. Rollins, however, was adamant. “This is the direction,” she said. “There are plenty of workers in America.” The White House did not respond to questions about how forcing Medicaid recipients into agricultural work would comply with labor laws, disability rights statutes, or the constitutional ban on involuntary servitude. A civil rights advocate put it more bluntly: “This is not immigration policy. This is an attempt to resurrect slavery in America under a different name.”
1775—Shortly after taking command of the troops fighting for American independence from Britain, Gen. George Washington (the nation’s first president) has his adjutant general issue an order barring any further Blacks from joining the Continental Army. The decision would be confirmed by the Continental Congress in November of 1775. The fear was that Blacks who fought for America’s independence would be justified in demanding an end to slavery. And slave owners, including Washington, did not want that.
1927—David Dinkins, the first Black man elected mayor of New York City, is born on this day in 1927. He was born in Trenton, N.J., and served as New York City mayor from 1989 to 1993.
1943—Tennis sensation Arthur Ashe was born on this day in Richmond, Va. He would become the first Black male to win the Wimbledon men’s singles championship by defeating Jimmy Connors in 1975. Ashe would receive a contaminated blood transfusion and die of AIDS in February 1993.
1972—The Democratic Party holds its presidential convention in Miami, Fla. New York Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, the first Black person to actively seek the party’s presidential nomination, received 151.95 votes on the first ballot. Senator George McGovern would eventually be nominated. Chisholm had been the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress, achieving the distinction in 1968. She was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., to a Barbadian mother and a Guyanese father. Chisholm’s signature phrase was “Un-bought and unbossed.” She died in January 2005.
• JULY 11
1905—The Niagara Movement (forerunner of the NAACP) is founded during a meeting near Niagara Falls, N.Y. Among the most prominent Blacks at the meeting were intellectual and activist W.E.B. DuBois and newspaper publishers William Monroe Trotter and Ida B. Wells Barnett.
1915—Mifflin Wistar Gibbs dies Gibbs had worked on the Underground Railroad helping Blacks escape from slavery along with Frederick Douglas. He would later become publisher of Mirror of the
Times—the first Black newspaper in California. He was also the first African-American elected to a municipal judgeship in the state.
2010—Gospel legend Bishop Walter Hawkins dies. The Grammy award-winning Hawkins died at his home in Ripon, Calif. Hawkins was part of the influential Hawkins family. His brother was Edwin Hawkins and for a while he was married to gospel great Tramaine Hawkins.
• JULY 12
1887—Mound Bayou, Miss., perhaps the nation’s best known historically all-Black town, is founded by ex-slave Isaiah Montgomery and his cousin Benjamin T. Green. It was built as a sanctuary for former slaves during a period when Jim Crow racism and terrorism by groups such as the Ku Klux Klan were on the rise. It is considered the oldest surviving all-Black town in America. According to the 2000 Census, the town had 2,100 residents.
1937—Actor, comedian and political activist William “Bill” Cosby is born on this day in Philadelphia, Pa. Cosby would rise from nightclub comedian, to actor in several of the so-called Black exploitation movies of the 1970s, to star of the hit NBC television series “The Cosby Show” from 1984-92. The show won numerous awards and praise for its portrayal of a middle-class African American family.
1949—Although he is seldom mentioned today, Frederick M. Jones was one of Black America’s most productive inventors. There are at least 60 patents to his credit. However, Jones is best known for the invention of an air conditioning unit. Specifically, he designed an automatic refrigeration system for long-haul trucks and trains which he patented on this day in 1949. Jones was born in 1893 in Covington, Ky., near Cincinnati. He died in 1961.
• JULY 13
1863—One of the bloodiest race (or perhaps more appropriately “racist”) riots in America history begins. The event, known historically as New York City Draft Riots, was sparked by angry opposition to the congressionally passed Enrollment Act—a mandatory draft requiring White men to fight in the Civil War. Many Whites went on a rampage out of opposition to the draft and fear of freed Blacks competing with them for jobs. The rioting lasted from July 13 to July 16 before it was finally put down with the aid of Federal troops. But before it was over, an estimated 100 people had been killed and 300 wounded—most of them Blacks. The mandatory draft also reflected a fact commonly omitted from standard American history texts: the class nature of much legislation. In this instance, the draft only applied to poor and working-class Whites. Wealthy Whites were officially exempted from the draft by paying a fee.
1868—Oscar J. Dunn, a former slave, is installed as Louisiana’s lieutenant governor. At the time, it was the highest elective state position ever achieved by any African American. Another Black, Antoine Dubuclet, was installed as state treasurer. However, virtually all the Black political gains after the Civil War would be wiped out by the Hayes-Tilden Compromise of 1872 and the subsequent anti-Black Jim Crow laws. It would take nearly 100 years (during the 1960s) before Blacks would once again begin to match the political gains they had made during the post-Civil War period.
• JULY 15
1779—Noted Black spy Pompey Lamb supplies the American revolutionary forces with information, which enables them to win the Battle of Stony Point—the last major battle of the Revolutionary War in New York State. Lamb had worked as a fruit and vegetable delivery man for the British Army.
1822—Philadelphia becomes one of the first major cities to open its public schools to Blacks. The first school was a segregated one just for Black boys. One for girls was opened four years later in 1826. The city’s public schools would remain segregated until the 1930s.
SEN. TIM SCOTT
Bush, Stevens, Moore, Udin presented with ‘Keys to the City’ at WAMO Day
off until after the presentations occurred.
"I am honored and privileged to be named with the other honorees today," Bush said. "Each and every one of them have contributed mightily to my personal success and that of the Urban League."
Bush is serving as interim President and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh while the organization searches for its next leader. But the entire region—and some nationally—know Bush as the tireless leader of the Urban League for 27 years, from 1994 to 2021. She significantly raised the profile of the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh during her tenure, even starting a charter school run by the Urban League in 1998. The mission of the Urban League is to empower African Americans and other underserved communities to achieve social and economic
equality, and to secure their civil rights.
"My message to you is this—we are at a period of time in our city, our state and our coun -
try, where you cannot lay down and see what somebody else is going to do," Bush told the crowd. "You have to get involved. You have no
choice. Don't come up to me and talk about the president and talk about what somebody else did Downtown. What are you doing? And if you've never been an advocate before, let me tell you that it feels darn good."
Stevens has been an advocate for forever and a day, it seems. The current Chairman and CEO of the Black Political Empowerment Proj -
ect, he leads the charge in Pittsburgh for African Americans to "vote in each and every election."
"What would happen if every Black person in America voted in each and every election?" he asked the crowd. Stevens also included the LGBTQ and other minority communities. "We could put anybody in, and we could take anybody out of office."
In addition to voting, Stevens is a fierce advocate for African Americans being respected by local police. He has spoken out against injustices done to Black people by police officers in the region, but also tries to find common ground in showing African Americans that officers should be shown the proper respect as well, and that it's always best to try to diffuse any situations that might occur during, say, a traffic stop.
As for Moore, the longtime host on KDKA Radio (1020 AM, 100.1 FM) and former WQED-TV host, Mayor Gainey had nothing but admirable words for him. "To be on KDKA and speak truth to power, even when he knew that he might get in trouble...," Mayor Gainey exclaimed. "When you
I AM TRU...! (PHOTOS BY J.L. MARTELLO)
WAMO RADIO’S BROTHER MARLON, RIGHT...
WAMO Day 2025
have that type of courage, someone who served in our military, someone that continues to be a pillar in our neighborhood...and someone who also celebrated 50 years of marriage with his wife (Joyce Meggerson-Moore)...I told him he should write a book about radio personalities in this city."
Moore, who can light up a room with his verbal quips, gave the crowd another one: "This key to the city might not be any good after January (2026), but that's alright with me."
Mayor Gainey got a kick out of that, as did the rest of the crowd.
Mayor Gainey is serving out the remainder of his term as mayor of Pittsburgh, but there will be a new mayor of Pittsburgh in January 2026 after Mayor Gainey lost the Democratic Primary Election to Corey O'Connor on May 20. Udin is currently a board director for Pittsburgh Public Schools. But that's barely half of his story. Udin has been a part of Pittsburgh's political and civil rights scene since the '60s. In 1965, Udin co-founded the Centre Avenue Poets’ Theatre Workshop in the Hill District with August Wilson and Rob Penny. He helped establish a Black studies program at the University of Pittsburgh a few years later. Eventually, he made his way to Pittsburgh City Council, where biting his tongue was never an option. He spent 10 years on City Council beginning in 1995.
"Nobody in politics is successful alone," Udin said on the WAMO stage. "It takes teamwork to make the dream work, and everybody who's receiving this key, who's been up here to speak, they're all members of a team. I hope if you walk away with anything today, you walk away with
the idea that you cannot do anything meaningful without teamwork. We have to love each other and work as a team to get anything done."
Think of today's Black political figures in Pittsburgh and the region. Think of Congresswoman Summer Lee from North Braddock, Lt. Governor Austin Davis from McKeesport, Pittsburgh City Councilmen R. Daniel Lavelle and Khari Mosley, state Reps. La'Tasha D. Mayes and Aerion Abney, and of course, Mayor Gainey —they've all benefited and had their path made easier thanks to the tireless work of people
Still, on a day when it was time to honor them, the four icons took time to honor someone other than them—Ed Gainey. "Let me just say," Udin continued, "Ed was the first Black mayor of the city, but because of the work that he did, he won't be the last Black mayor of the city. He has raised the standards that other competitors for that office are going to have to live up to."
like Esther Bush, Tim Stevens, Chris Moore and Sala Udin.
KEILYNN AND LAUREN BURKES OF FORTIFIED FIDELIS, LLC. (PHOTO BY ROB TAYLOR JR.)
KESHA EPPS, DR. TAMMI MCMILLAN (PHOTO BY ROB TAYLOR JR.)
Take Charge Of Your Health Today.
Urban League reminder: Caring for your mind is caring for your future
Esther L. Bush, Interim President and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh discusses why Black mental health matters, including replacing stigmatizing fear with love and compassion.
Q: How does the Urban League help Black community members prioritize their mental health as much as their physical health?
Esther: The Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh believes that prioritizing mental health is just as critical as managing physical health — particularly in the Black community, where disparities in diagnosis and care for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease are deeply rooted in historic and ongoing inequities. Timely diagnosis of cognitive and mental health concerns often starts with open conversations
between individuals and their doctors. But that can only happen when community members feel safe, seen, and empowered in those settings. We strongly encourage Black adults—especially as they age—to talk with their doctors about memory, mood, stress, and any brain health questions or difficulties they may have.
Caring for your mind is caring for your future. We believe in creating trusted spaces where people feel safe. That includes our partnerships with churches, community centers, and initiatives like the Faith-Based Health Collaborative. In these places, people can feel confident addressing their mental health without fear or stigma.
Q: How do we, as a community, address how important it is to stop perpetuating stig-
ma against mental disorders?
Esther: Stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to Black adults
receiving the brain and mental health care they need. However, we believe that stigma can be dismantled through com-
munity strengths and storytelling. The Urban League urges individuals not to let shame or outdated beliefs
prevent them from seeking care. Getting support is a sign of strength, not weakness. At the same time, we call on the broader community to actively reject and stop spreading stigmatizing messages about mental health. We must speak openly about memory loss, dementia, depression, caregiving, and other challenges — not in whispers, but in strong, supportive voices. By uplifting personal stories, celebrating cultural resilience, and ensuring our elders and caregivers feel valued and understood, we can replace fear with action and silence with compassion.
Together, we can build a future where every member of our community knows that their mental health matters and they’re not alone.
Breaking down barriers to Black brain health
In the U.S., Black adults are twice as likely as White adults to develop Alzheimer’s disease or Alzheimer’s Disease Related Dementia (ADRD). They also have a higher risk of stroke, which can significantly increase the chance of getting dementia later in life.
Sadly, many Black adults get diagnosed almost three years later than White adults and their symptoms are often worse by the time they receive help. Even after diagnosis, many patients struggle to find care that respects them and understands their culture. These problems come from a long history of unfair treatment. They’re the result of years of social, economic, and racial inequalities stretching across generations.
Dr. Lilcelia Williams, Research Faculty Member in the University of Pittsburgh’s Psychiatry Department, is working to change these health disparities. Her research focuses on how to improve brain health for people from minority communities who often do not receive fair healthcare treatment.
Dr. Williams studies how certain diseases, like Alzheimer’s and stroke, affect the brain. These diseases can cause long-term disabilities that make daily life harder and shorten lifespan.
Dr. Williams’ latest research project, which is not yet funded, supports brain health in Black men who are 50 years or older. These men may have family members who had Alzheimer’s or dementia. Some may have had head injuries. Others may just
be worried about losing their memory or getting dementia in the future.
“Older Black men face a lot of brain-health stigmas,” Dr. Williams says. “Some think memory loss is just a normal part of getting older. Others are afraid they’ll lose their personal autonomy or not be able to take care of their families. Because of these fears, they may wait too long to get help.”
Dr. Williams is a strong voice for Black and Brown people dealing with brain health problems. “Black brain health matters,” she says. “As a proud, full-figured brown woman, married to a dark-skinned man—and mother to children of many beautiful brown shades —I’ve dedicated my life and career to spreading this message.”
Research, including Dr. Williams’, shows that fixing brain health problems in the Black community takes teamwork between researchers and participants. It also needs to be rooted in the community and shaped by its culture from the beginning.
“Researchers must work with trusted Black leaders and groups like the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh and the area’s new Faith Based Health Collaborative,” she says.
“We need to meet people in places they already trust, like churches, community centers, and at local events where we can hold workshops and memory screenings.”
It’s also important for researchers and healthcare providers to honor the Black community’s strong tradition of storytelling. To celebrate its cultural wealth. To acknowledge its members’ amazing
your brain health.”
Here are some of the steps Dr. Williams recommends based on research: Lower your blood pressure
Keeping your blood pressure under control, especially in your 40s and 50s, can lower your risk of dementia as you get older. To do this, take blood pressure medicine as prescribed, try to get some exercise each day, and eat more fruits, vegetables, and lean meats. “One easy way to stay active is
abilities like code switching and speaking multiple languages. “People want to feel seen, valued, and heard,” Dr. Williams says.
“They deserve to be equal partners in science, especially when science has let them down in the past.”
A big part of Dr. Williams’ work is passing
along health knowledge, helping people speak up about their experiences, and taking control of their health. “You can take action to help modify risks of developing brain health problems like stroke, Alzheimer’s, and ADRD,” she says. “Small steps can make a big difference for
Using faith and facts, churches and nurses unite to fight health inequities
The first of its kind in Pittsburgh, the FaithBased Health Collaborative (FBHC) is made up of a group of local churches that work together to improve people’s health. Co-chaired by Eric Cofield and Rev. Dr. Brenda J. Gregg the FBHC brings together church leaders, nurses, and health teams to help families learn how to stay well. That includes:
Holding events and sharing easy-to-understand information where people can learn about vaccines, Alzheimer’s and dementia, mental health, and healthy lifestyles. These events give people a safe and supportive way to become better informed about medical topics that can change their lives for the better. The events are designed to replace health-
care mistrust with knowledge that empowers. Explaining health facts respectfully and authentically. FBHC’s 12-member board of pastors and nurses make it easier for people to take advice from voices they trust.
Offering collaborative mini-grants to support community churches with awareness, education, and
to go for a daily walk,” Dr. Williams says. “Start slow and pick up the pace over time. It’s even better if you walk with a friend.” Take care of diabetes
“Type 2 diabetes makes strokes and brain problems more likely,” Dr. Williams says. “It’s best to
get diagnosed early and stick with your treatment plan.”
Find ways to relax
“Do something every day that brings you joy,” Dr. Williams says. “Take a bubble bath. Call and talk to a close friend. Listen to your favorite music. Try a yoga or cooking class at a library or community center.”
She adds, “If you’re a caregiver for an elder or for someone with a disability, remember that self-care is not selfish. It’s necessary. And as more Black men become caregivers, we need to talk about the special challenges they face—especially when they care for their mothers or grandmothers.”
Get regular checkups
“Use neighborhood health clinics and mobile screening events,” Dr. Williams says. “The sooner you catch a health problem, the sooner you can treat it. Don’t let fear or shame keep you from getting help for yourself or a loved one.”
Be kind to your brain
“Keep learning and stay socially active,” she says. “Join a book club at your local library. Listen to audiobooks for free using your library card and the Libby app. Invite young people over to chat about music or other interests. Keep your brain engaged.” Dr. Williams continues, “By doing these things, we protect our minds, take control of our stories, and demand healthcare that sees and treats all of who we are.”
health information The grants come from the Allegheny County Health Department and the Highmark Foundation. Through health events, shared prayer, and scripture, the FBHC connects faith with real science. This combination makes it easier for underserved Black families to get the good health care and support they deserve. The goal is to reduce physical and mental health illnesses and build stronger, healthier communities. Learn more—includ-
ing information about upcoming health events. Visit the organization’s website at faithbhc.org
ESTHER L. BUSH
DR. LILCELIA WILLIAMS
Reverend A. Marie Walker’s Weekly Inspiration
“For I say, through the GRACE given unto me, to every man that is among you, NOT TO THINK OF HIMSELF MORE HIGHLY THAN HE OUGHT TO THINK; but to think soberly, according to God hath dealt to every man a MEASURE OF FAITH. For as we have many members in one body, and all members have NOT the SAME OFFICE.”
Romans 12:3-4
REV. WALKER SAYS: God has given to each of us a MEASURE OF FAITH, SO PLEASE LET US ALL WORK TOGETHER IN ORDER TO BUILD UP THE KINGDOM OF GOD.
COURIER CHURCH DIRECTORY
Stop The Violence Fund to remain intact
All-in approach to stop violence before it starts in Pittsburgh
STOP VIOLENCE FROM A1
burgh before it starts.
A matching percentage of the city's annual police budget, up to $10 million per year, is allocated to the Stop The Violence Fund. Felicity Williams, the mayor's deputy chief of staff, said in a virtual interview sponsored by 1 Hood Media that the fund has created the Office of Community Services and Violence Prevention and has contributed to the Office of Community Health and Safety. The money has also helped expand the city's City Sports programs.
Currently, the fund has about $15 million.
Overall, though, much of the money goes to the anti-violence groups, like REACH and the city's GVI, or Group Violence Intervention. It also supports organizations like S.A.L.T., or Save A Life Today Pittsburgh. Williams said the point of the fund is to "tackle gun violence as a public health crisis targeting our impacted communities."
However, she said that there are misconceptions about the fund, such as the fund is just giving out "handouts" to the anti-violence groups, and if the
fund is actually helping reduce gun violence in the city.
Williams, during a Pittsburgh City Council Standing Committee Meeting on July 2, reiterated to Council that the fund is meant to try to prevent violence before it happens by supporting organizations that deal with things like mental health or economic development. One of those organizations, she said, was the Trade Institute of Pittsburgh, led by Donta Green.
Helping to increase a person's job prospects or economic status can often lead to a reduction in
possible violence by that individual.
Mayor Gainey was downright furious during a press conference he held outside City Council chambers on July 2, the same day as the Standing Committee Meeting. He brought many of those anti-violence groups together, and wanted to show everyone that the people beside him are on the ground, doing the work necessary to help prevent gun violence.
"It's time that we replace hypocrisy with truth," Mayor Gainey said, July 2. "When we didn't have 'Stop The Violence,' all
you talked about was how the neighborhood didn't care. We created a fund because there's no operation without funding. So now, we have all these operations that come together in the name of public safety and public health, to ensure that we're doing what I said we would do when I took office and that's reduce homicides, and we've reduced homicides by 33 percent...and you want to pretend that it wouldn't happen without groups like them? When we started to reduce homicides, instead of praising them, you ask, 'Do we need them?'"
City Council on July 8 approved legislation that will now require those organizations who receive money via the fund to report to the city on how they spend the money, and that a steering committee should be formed to oversee the fund.
"The hypocrisy to ask if it works," Mayor Gainey said back on July 2. "The devil is a lie...and for anybody that thinks that this doesn't work, what is your plan? Why haven't you had a plan?... Y'all wanna say I'm preaching? No, I'm teaching today."
DAVE PARKER, AKA ‘THE COBRA,’ SAME BITE, LESS STING!
:10—OK, OK, OK, I’ll say it, but I know you’re thinking it. At least you should be. For the life of me, I can never understand how these institutions, especially the sports kingdoms, insist on waiting until you’re dead or near so before they crown the deserving ones. Dave Parker should have been inducted into the MLB Hall of Fame in Cooperstown 20 years ago. And your Pittsburgh Pirates aren’t much less guilty. They only inducted him in their Ring of Honor in 2022. Here are the stats, you tell me if I am crazy •.290 batting average •339 home runs
•1,493 RBIs •7-time AllStar •3-time Gold Glove and 3-time Silver Slugger Awardee •On-the-field excellence •No off-the-field problems what-so-ever •National League MVP • and a major player in the Pirates' 1979 World Series Championship!!! C’MON MAN!!!
:09—The real “strike out” here is that Parker’s recent death left him three weeks short of being able to realize his induction in real time. As the old folks would say...IT’S A SIN AND A SHAME FOR WHAT YOU DID, MLB! RIP DAVE PARKER.
:08—Speaking of shame, all you old-dirty —!!! Please stop with the double talk. Wake up, Grandpa and smell the coffee. The WNBA is here, it’s legit, it’s exciting, it’s making money and guess what . . . THE LADIES BE BALLING!
:07—The Steelers traded
All-Pro Minkah Fitzaptrick to the Miami Dolphins in exchange for All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey, tight end Jonnu Smith, and a 2027 7th-round draft pick. hate to see Fitzpatrick go; he was a solid Pittsburgh fit and player. The rest remains to be seen. But I bet-cha Minkah ain’t doing no crying, because he won’t have to have his career shortened playing linebacker half the time. :06—Yes, for your information, I was in fact invited to the Bezos wedding, but turned down the invite. If Halle Berry... my wom-
an...was not invited, take me off the list!
:05—You can continue your excitement about the Pirates sweeping the Mets and Philly, but then this past weekend they got swept by Seattle. We have nowhere to go but up.
:04—Here’s a flashback for ya. When’s the last time you listened to “All Day Music” by WAR? Do yourself a favor and lock it in one more time...except this time do it without the weed! Yes, you did...yes, you did! You know you did, so stop. Nobody cares now.
:03—Speaking of almost too late. The San Francisco Giants are about to do a statue for Barry Bonds. Ya think! He’s only arguably the greatest player of all time. C’mon, MLB boys. You can’t corral the steroid issue. You don’t really know who did what, not to mention you made a zillion dollars off it before you said a word about it.
:02—Here’s this, boys and girls. Your Pittsburgh Steelers report to training camp July 23rd. Practice is open to the public July 24 at 1:55 p.m. at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe.
:01—Coming this way soon, the 51st annual Pittsburgh, Allegheny County
and Western PA Delores J. Neal Memorial Celebrating Women Awards. If you know a great woman doing/ or have done great things, please nominate her. Text
DAVE PARKER
Achieving Greatness Inc. with her name and number at 412-628-4856. The event happens Saturday, July 26, noon!
:00— Shame...Shame...
Shame on you, Major League Baseball! (Yeah, you were thinking it.) GAME OVER.
Dave Parker, like other Black athletes, had to wait too long for his flowers
Recently, Jay Berry posted an article on mikefarrellsports.com titled: "Deion Sanders Says Honor Legends Now, Not After They're Gone."
Mr. Berry posted the following: “Regarding awards and tributes, Colorado head coach Deion Sanders doesn't believe in waiting. After Colorado's spring game, Sanders said, 'So we gotta die to get recognized? Give people their flowers while they can enjoy them, and they can smell them.' These are the latest comments surrounding the backlash to retiring Shedeur Sanders' and Travis Hunter's Colorado jersey numbers. After the spring game, Sanders mentioned two Colorado legends who passed away before being honored.” Check this out. Retiring the numbers of Sanders and Hunter may appear to be a bit premature, but I would rather coaches, players or other participants be honored a bit too early rather than far too late. Let’s review the process and the outcome of how athletes of color have been honored in comparison to White athletes over the past century.
The great Dallas Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach won a Heisman Trophy and two Super Bowls before he retired in 1980. He was a first-ballot inductee into the NFL Hall of Fame in 1985, just five years after he retired. Let’s hit rewind and take a look at the career of the groundbreaking career of the late, great Fritz Pollard. He was one of the initial Black players in the NFL and was the first to become a head coach. A First-Team All-Pro member in 1920, Pollard was one of the most feared running backs in the early years of the NFL, which was then known as the American Professional Football Association. Although the NFL Hall of Fame opened in 1963, Pollard was not inducted into the Hall of Fame until 2005—nearly 20 years after his death. The NFL HOF acceptance speech for Fritz Pollard had to be delivered by Fritz Pollard III. It would have been great for Fritz to tell his own story. Fritz was not able to ride the coattails of his “gold jacket” onto the airwaves of the radios and televisions of the world, hawking fast
foods, automobiles or any other products.
"Bullet" Bob Hayes was another legendary player whose welcome to the "hall of shame" was unjustifiably delayed. Hayes is regarded as one of the greatest receivers ever to play the game. He played for 10 seasons with the Dallas Cowboys and one season with the San Francisco 49ers.
His speed could make defensive backs appear as if they were standing still and playing with blinders on.
Bob Hayes retired in 1976. Just two years later in 1978, the "Mel Blount" defensive coverage rule was enacted, prohibiting contact with an offensive player more than five yards beyond the line of scrimmage. If he had performed with such an advantage, Hayes could have possibly scored more than 50-plus touchdowns per season!
Hayes is the only athlete to win a Super Bowl as well as an Olympic gold medal. He retired in 1976. He died in 2001. He was posthumously selected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2009. There were numerous opportunities during the 15 years after he retired to induct him into the "great hall," but they did not see fit to do so until approximately 8 years after his death. But as “Prime” stated so eloquently, "so we gotta die to get recognized? Give people their flowers while they can enjoy them, and they can smell them." Forget, “let them eat cake.” The catchphrase should be: “Let them smell formaldehyde.”
Compare the career of Lance Alworth to the career of Bob Hayes. Alworth played 11 seasons and retired from the NFL in 1972 and was quickly inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 1978, only six short years after he retired. The excuse for bypassing Bob Hayes was that Lance Alworth had grace and agility and Bob Hayes was just pure speed. If Lance Alworth was “Bambi” then who the hell was Bob Hayes, “Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer?”
Lance Alworth was able to deliver his HOF speech in the prime of his life, surrounded by his former teammates, friends and loved ones. For any of us to hear Bob Hayes convey his NFL HOF acceptance speech posthumously, we are forced to employ the services of a certified USDA bone-seeking clairvoyant or we have to mosey on over to the nearest mystic shop and purchase the latest edition of a Ouija Board as well as a fifth of Grand Marnier to sip on while we patiently sit in a candlelit room, waiting to establish contact with the spirit world. On June 28, Bob Nightengale posted an article about former Pittsburgh Pirates great Dave Parker on usatoday.com titled: "The Cobra' Dave Parker prayed to live one more month. MLB legend's legacy lives on." Nightengale writes: “Dave Parker, his mind still sharp but his body failing, kept pleading. One more month, he prayed. Please, let him be healthy enough to get to Cooperstown, New York, to be inducted July 27 into Baseball’s Hall of Fame. If not, at least keep him alive so he could hear
his son present his speech. He fought so courageously since hearing the news in December that he was elected to the Hall of Fame.” Parker was forced to pray to receive the recognition that he earned and deserved. The illness of Parker was well-known for several years. As mortality became his mirror, Dave Parker prayed the same prayer of protection that he prayed when they hurled objects at him during the 1970s, when he took his place in the right fields of a few MLB ballparks, including his home field, Three Rivers Stadium. He should have been elected to the MLB Hall of Fame years earlier. However, Parker is just another Black athlete who fell under the "posthumous recognition" rule. Folks were busy playing God with the process, while Dave Parker was busy praying.
What a difference your credit score can make
by ReShonda Tate Houston Defender
Your credit score isn’t just a number— it’s a powerful key that can open doors to homeownership, car loans, business opportunities and financial stability.
But for Black consumers, this number has even higher stakes. Thanks to historic and ongoing systemic barriers, building and protecting credit isn’t just about personal responsibility—it’s about fighting for access and equity in a system that hasn’t always played fair.
Let’s break it down.
Why your credit score matters
(and How a Few Points Can Cost You Thousands)
Credit scores range from 300 to 850. Generally, a score above 670 is considered “good,” and a score above 740 is considered “very good.” But even small differences in your score can have a huge real-life impact:
Interest Rates on Loans: A 620 score might get you a car loan at 15 percent, while a 750 score could get you 6 percent. On a $25,000 car over five years, that difference could cost you over $6,000 more in interest.
Insurance Premiums: Many insurance companies check credit scores to set rates. A lower score can mean hundreds more each year in auto or home insurance costs.
Job Prospects: Some employers (especially in financial industries) pull credit reports when making hiring decisions. A poor credit history can close the door on job opportunities, even if you’re qualified.
The Systemic Barriers
Black Consumers Face
The racial wealth gap, redlining and historic discrimination have left many Black households with fewer resources and less access to fair credit. Predatory lending, higher loan denial rates and a lack of inherited wealth all mean Black families are often starting behind in the credit game.
But here’s the truth: We can’t fix a rigged system by ignoring it—only by mastering it.
Three Actionable Ways to Fix and Build Your Credit 1. Pay On Time, Every Time Payment history makes up 35 percent of your credit score. Even small bills like
by Laura Onyeneho Houston Defender
It’s not just about whether you can buy a car or get approved for an apartment. It’s about freedom. Options. The ability to say yes to opportunities without being held back by a number most of us were never taught to understand.
For many young Black adults, that number—your credit score—can silently shape your future before you even get a chance to build it.
And the odds aren’t in our favor. Research from the Urban Institute shows that 25 to 29-year-olds in majority Black communities have a median credit score of 582, which is below the subprime level of 600. That’s more than 100 points lower than young adults in majority White
utilities or credit cards count. Setting up automatic payments or calendar reminders can help you avoid costly late fees and hits to your score.
2. Lower Your Credit Utilization
Your utilization is the percentage of available credit you’re using. Ideally, keep it below 30 percent. If your card limit is $1,000, aim to carry no more than a $300 balance. Paying down existing balances or asking for a credit limit increase (without increasing spending!) can quickly improve this number.
3. Check Your Credit Report for Errors One in five credit reports has an error. Request a free report at AnnualCreditReport.com, review it carefully and dispute mistakes. Fixing a wrong late payment or closed account can instantly boost your score. Breaking the Cycle, Building the
ARE ACTIONABLE WAYS TO FIX AND MAINTAIN YOUR CREDIT: CREDIT: UNSPLASH
neighborhoods. Even more alarming, nearly a third of young people in Black communities saw their credit scores decline as they got older, instead of improving.
“Your credit score is one of the first ways lenders and even landlords decide how trustworthy you are with money,” said Dr. Johnny O’Connor, Board Chair for Youth Programs of the Texas Black Expo. “It can impact everything from getting approved for an apartment to the interest rate on your car loan.”
O’Connor says young adults should understand the basics. What is a credit score?
A credit score is a number ranging from 300 to 850 that reflects your creditworthiness. It’s calculated based on your payment history, the amount of debt you
owe (especially compared to your credit limits), the length of your credit history, the types of credit you use and how often you apply for new credit.
Many young people believe they can wait until they’re older to care about credit. But Dr. O’Connor warns against that mindset. “A low credit score could mean you pay double or even triple for the same house over time due to higher interest rates,” he said. “Even if you’re not buying a house right now, poor credit can cost you more in the long run.”
Key factors that shape your score
Credit scores are made up of several components, but two stand out, especially for beginners:
• Credit Utilization: This is how much of your available credit you’re using. “Never go over 30 percent,” said
Future
Strong credit gives Black families more than just better rates—it provides financial options, economic power and the ability to invest in future generations. Danielle Joseph, a Houston-based financial coach, puts it this way:
“We deserve access to the tools that build wealth, just like anyone else. Strengthening your credit isn’t just about you—it’s about building up our entire community.”
By understanding how credit works, fixing what’s broken and resisting predatory practices, Black consumers can regain control of their financial destinies.
Next Steps
• Start today:
• Review your credit report
• Make a realistic plan to tackle debt
• Educate yourself and your family on how credit works
O’Connor. “If your credit card has a $10,000 limit, keep your balance under $3,000.”
• Payment History: Always pay your bills on time. Even if you can’t pay the full balance, paying at least the minimum helps build a strong history of reliability.
• Credit History: Credit scoring companies assess credit age, or “depth of credit,” to determine a person’s credit management ability, which is crucial for future loan decisions.
• Mix of credit: Credit scoring systems favor a mix of installment debt and revolving accounts, indicating that managing multiple debts and credit types
Let’s be real—money don’t move unless you move it. If you don’t take control of your money, your money will control you. Bills don’t care about your feelings. Emergencies don’t give you warnings. And that job? It’ll replace you before your seat even gets cold. If you’re tired of being broke, frustrated, and stuck in survival mode—it’s time to boss up and run your money like a business. Here are the 7 steps to being the boss of your money. No fluff. No fantasy. Just real talk and proven steps that work.
1. Grind Mode: Work Brings Income—No Way Around It. Let’s start with the foundation: Work is how you create income. The Bible makes it plain in 2 Thessalonians 3:10: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.” In other words, no work, no reward. That’s the standard. Everybody wants six figures—but few want to put in six-figure effort. The average six-figure earner works 50 to 60 hours per week. They show up ear-
ly, stay late, and stay focused. If you’re not putting in at least that amount of work—and you’re struggling financially—it might be time to stop looking for shortcuts and start looking for an extra job. If your current income ain’t cutting it, a second job or a side hustle isn’t punishment—it’s a path. Hustling temporarily can lead to stability permanently. Grind Mode is about budgeting, but it starts with hustle. Budgeting zero dollars still equals zero. You can’t manage what you don’t have. So the first step to bossing up financially is bringing in money consistently. Don’t complain about what your bank account looks like if you’re not putting in the hours to change it. Work creates income. Discipline multiplies it. Grind Mode requires both. 2. Blueprint Vibes: If You Fail to Plan, You Plan to Stay Broke. You can’t win with money by winging it.
7 steps to be the boss of your money
DAMON CARR FROM B1
Financial success isn’t luck—it’s strategy. Blueprint Vibes is all about vision and execution. You need a plan. You need clear goals. You need a roadmap that tells your money where to go and how to grow.
Want to buy a house? Want to retire early? Want to pay off debt, build a business, or take that dream trip? Write it down. Break it up into steps. Set deadlines. Hold yourself accountable.
Bosses don’t move blindly. They build with intention. If you don’t have a plan, you’ll always be stuck reacting instead of progressing.
3. Debt Zeroing: Kill That Debt Before It Kills Your Dreams.
Debt is the silent thief of your peace, power, and progress.
Debt Zeroing means you’re done living in bondage to payments. You’re done being stuck in the interest trap. You’re done giving your future income to people who already got theirs.
Debt is not just a number—it’s a chain. The longer you keep it, the heavier it gets. Start with the smallest balance or the highest interest rate—just start. Get aggressive. Make it personal. You can’t be free while paying five different companies before you can even enjoy your own paycheck.
Debt Zeroing is the step where you reclaim your financial control.
4. Safety Stack: Emergency Fund or Emergency Trouble—Pick One. Emergencies don’t ask for permission. They just show up. And if you’re not prepared, they’ll wreck your budget, your credit, and your confidence.
Safety Stack is your shield. It’s your cushion. It’s your “I got this” money. Start small—$1,000 in a separate savings account. Then build up to three to six months of living expenses. This is not savings for a vacation or new furniture. This is your break-glassin-case-of-emergency money. It’s what keeps you from putting car repairs or medical bills on a credit card.
Real bosses stay ready so they don’t have to get ready.
5. Asset Play: Don’t Just Work for Money—Make Money Work for You. If your only plan is to work for money, you’ll be working forever. Wealth is built when your money starts working without you.
Asset Play means you invest. You grow. You multiply. Whether it’s stocks, real estate, retirement funds, or business equity—you need ownership. The rich get richer because they buy assets. The broke stay broke because they only buy stuff. Assets appreciate. Stuff depreciates. You don’t have to be an expert to start. You just have to start. Learn the game. Get in the game. Don’t be afraid to play offense with your money.
Bosses don’t hoard money—they grow it.
6. Revenue Streams: One Check Ain’t Enough in This Economy. Relying on one income is risky business. What happens if that one job cuts hours, gets sold, or shuts down? You’re instantly in panic mode.
Revenue Streams means you’re building multiple ways to get paid. Side hustle. Small business. Rental income. Freelance work. Dividends. Digital products.
One stream funds your needs. Multiple streams fund your freedom. It’s not about being busy—it’s about being smart. Make sure you’ve got options. The goal is to create a life where you make money whether you’re working, sleeping, or on vacation. Bosses don’t get stuck. They build lifelines.
7. Freedom Level: Money Ain’t the Goal—Freedom Is. The end game is not stacks of cash— it’s options. It’s peace. It’s ownership of your time and your life.
Freedom Level means you’re no longer a prisoner to bills, debt, or someone else’s schedule. You live on your own terms. You’re financially independent. You’ve got choices.
You ain’t stressing about the next emergency. You ain’t hoping your paycheck clears. You’re sleeping good, giving generously, and moving how you want. That’s what this is all about. Budgeting, planning, paying off debt, saving, investing—it’s all to buy your freedom. Bosses don’t just chase money—they chase options. They build systems, ownership, and freedom so they can live life on their terms, with power, peace, and purpose.
This is more than a list. It’s a lifestyle. Each step builds on the next. You start with structure, then you create security, then you generate power. That’s how you boss up. You don’t need to be rich. You don’t need to be perfect. You need to be consistent. You need to be intentional. You need to be fed up with being stuck. Your money story can change—starting today.
Let’s build it. Let’s grind. Let’s grow.
(Damon Carr, Money Coach & Tax Pro can be reached at 412-216-1013 or visit his website at www.damonmoneycoach.com)
Debt and lower savings leave Black Americans behind in retirement readiness
by Stacy M. Brown Black Press USA Senior National Correspondent
A report from the Employee Benefit Research Institute shows that Black Americans continue to face serious challenges in saving for retirement, even as their incomes grow.
The 2025 Retirement Confidence Survey, which included a special oversample of Black workers and retirees, found that the wealth gap remains wide at every income level. Among households earning $75,000 or more, only 33 percent of Black Americans reported having $250,000 or more in savings and investments, compared with 63 percent of nonBlack Americans.
Debt remains a major obstacle. Sixty-three percent of higher-income Black households said debt is a problem, while only 45 percent of non-Black households at the same income level said the same.
Nearly half of upper-income Black respondents said debt affects their ability to save or live comfortably in retirement.
While many Black Americans expressed confidence in managing day-today budgets, fewer felt prepared to invest or plan for the long term.
The study showed that Black Americans with higher incomes were less likely to have personally saved for retirement—77 percent, compared to 87 percent of non-Black Americans.
Retirement experiences also differed sharply. Forty-four percent of Black retirees said they retired earlier than planned because of a health problem or disability, compared with 32 percent of non-Black retirees. After leaving their main jobs, Black retirees were more likely to work for pay to make ends meet and more often said their retirement lifestyle was worse than expected.
Access to financial advice and planning remains uneven. Just 31 percent of Black respondents reported currently working with a financial adviser, although nearly half expect to do so in the future. Black Americans were more likely to seek help with reducing debt, creating wills or estate plans, and arranging life insurance, rather than simply determining if they had saved enough to retire.
Black workers also expressed high interest in innovative retirement products. According to the report, 85 percent of Black employees with workplace savings plans stated that they were somewhat or very interested in using some or all of their retirement savings to purchase a product that guarantees a monthly income for life. Seventy percent said they would buy an insurance product that begins providing guaranteed income at a later age, such as 80 or 85, a higher percentage than the 59 percent of non-Black workers who expressed the same sentiment.
When asked about converting workplace savings into monthly retirement income, Black Americans were more likely to find each of the options appealing. For example, 75 percent favored a default investment option that includes guaranteed lifetime income features, while 73 percent liked the idea of an employer-selected platform to help them choose income solutions.
The survey also showed differences in expected sources of income during re-
tirement. Nearly 9 in 10 Black workers and retirees said they expect to rely on Social Security. However, Black retirees were more likely to depend on financial support from family or friends and on disability insurance income, while nonBlack retirees were more likely to rely on personal investments and workplace savings plans. Participation in workplace retirement plans is increasing, but it remains uneven. Among Black workers earning less than $35,000, 41 percent reported being offered a workplace retirement plan. That figure rose to 86 percent for higher-income workers. Across all income levels, approximately 9 in 10 workers who were offered a plan reported being satisfied overall. Satisfaction levels were similar between Black and nonBlack workers when they were asked about plan features, investment choices, tools for calculating retirement needs, and fees.
The report highlighted a strong appetite for new plan features that could help address financial vulnerabilities. Eighty-eight percent of Black workers said they would likely use an emergency savings account funded through payroll deductions, compared with 68 percent of non-Black workers. Black workers also showed more interest in features that
would allow student loan payments to qualify for employer matching contributions to retirement plans.
Researchers Craig Copeland and Lisa Greenwald wrote, “Black Americans reported disproportionately lower financial resources, and how they feel about retirement and financial security is clearly impacted by having less resources.” They said, Black retirees, in particular, are “struggling with higher likelihoods of their retirement lifestyle being worse than expected” and “having to retire earlier than planned because of a health problem or disability.”
However, the researchers concluded that there is hope.
“There are some modifications in the financial system that could help improve their prospects,” they said, “such as increased assistance in balancing competing financial priorities like debt reduction, supporting family, and building long-term savings.”
(Stacy M. Brown is the Black Press USA senior national correspondent.)
can improve credit scores.
• Opening a new line of credit: Hard inquiries on your credit can result in a few points being deducted from your score for each application. To maintain a healthy credit score, it’s recommended to space out new credit applications by at least six months.
How to plan strategically
Managing money and building credit is a strategic balancing act—one they’ve often had to figure out on their own. Maisha Walker, a college graduate with an accounting degree, is among a growing number of young adults taking personal finance into their own hands in the absence of early financial education.
“Accounting just made sense for me,” said Walker, who graduated in late 2022 and now works in the industry. “I’ve always enjoyed math, had a mind for business and saw it as a stable career choice.”
But even with a numbers-driven mindset, Walker admits the credit system has been one of the more opaque financial concepts to grasp.
“I think the most confusing thing is how credit scores can fluctuate even when you’re doing everything right,” she said. “I pay off my balances every single month and still I’ll see my score dip a bit and I don’t really understand why.”
Walker’s financial journey became more intentional during her senior year of college, when the looming reality of adulthood set in, thinking about buying a car, renting an apartment and building her credit. That’s when she got her first student credit card, charging only small expenses like gas and meals and making sure to pay the balance in full every month.
“I knew that building a good credit score was important for my future,” she explained. Today, Walker considers herself financially responsible. She tracks every dollar she spends using a self-made Excel spreadsheet. Each month, she calculates
have lower average
her savings and evaluates where her money is going. She gives herself strict budgets and is intentional about what she chooses to splurge on.
“Saving has been one of the biggest lessons,” she said. “There are always unexpected expenses that come up, so it’s important to have a cushion for those moments.”
Despite her background in accounting, she believes financial literacy—especially around credit—should be taught earlier in life. “Credit scores should be more straightforward,” she said. “A lot of us are still confused by how it works because we were never taught.” How to build and maintain good credit?
O’Connor offers these foundational tips: 1. Start small. A student credit card or secured card can be a good entry
point, but only if you use it wisely. Make small purchases and pay them off in full every month.
2. Pay on time. Every time. Payment history makes up a big chunk of your score. One late payment can stick around for years.
3. Keep your balances low. Try to use less than 30 percent of your credit limit at any time, even lower is better.
4. Avoid unnecessary new credit. Every time you apply for credit, your score takes a hit. Don’t apply for multiple cards or loans at once.
5. Check your credit report. Everyone is entitled to a free credit report from each of the three credit bureaus every year at AnnualCreditReport.com. Use that to make sure everything on your report is accurate.
YOUNG ADULTS in majority Black and Hispanic communities tend to
credit scores compared with those who reside in majority white communities. (Credit: Getty Images)
PHOTO BY THIRDMAN ON PEXELS.COM
Guest Editorial
Positive and negative drug dealers
Drug dealers are running the world, at least, it appears that way when we examine the health issues that Americans, and others around the world, have to interface with due to ongoing health policy issues.
The illegal drug trade has influenced society for many years and has created serious problems in almost every “civilized” community, especially in the west. Drug addiction is a formidable foe, and has caused the downfall of numerous people. Divorce, death, incarceration, social alienation, and much more, are very strong opponents of positive health outcomes. Illegal drug dealers are some of the richest people on Earth. That industry has devastated certain communities, and the Black community in America has been particularly impacted. Whole communities have been devastated by the illegal drug trade. It has caused broken families, broken health, alienation, and much more. Basically, illegal drugs often present as a vice that is difficult to escape. And one of the reasons the illegal drug trade is so ubiquitous and the source of huge money outlays is the general oppression coming from the powers that be that have kept many Blacks and other non-White individuals in an economic limbo. Essentially, there would probably be fewer drug lords infecting our communities if the economic opportunities would increase.
The important thing to remember about the drug trade is that once a person becomes addicted it will guarantee huge economic gains for the individuals who have chosen to adopt “careers” as drug dealers. It is one of the few methods of resource acquisition that almost ensures economic success if they can survive opposition from other drug dealers.
The foregoing describes one of the problems faced by the drug-distribution industry. The previous discussion singled out illegal drug vendors and the havoc that they spread. There is another kind of drug dealer in our society, however, that can be just as lethal as the illegal purveyor of drugs to the masses, but this group is viewed in a more positive manner than their illegal counterparts: they come under the rubric of legal pharmaceuticals.
The drug industry, both legal and illegal, has an extreme stronghold on the western world, and the United States has not been exempted. Legal drug use has taken over society. In America, there are certain maladies that have victimized citizens to such an extent that they become addicted to legal drugs distributed by legitimate pharmaceutical sources. Interestingly, they are as victimized by the legal vendors as they are by the illegal ones. Those individuals with chronic diseases who become addicted to pharmaceuticals become just as dependent on their medicine as their counterparts who imbibe illegal drugs. In other words, dependency is dependency.
The pharmaceutical drug industry is as wildly economically successful as their illegal counterparts. What this ultimately means is that a huge swath of America is beholden to either illegal or legal drug dealers. The interesting thing about legal drugs is that users can become just as economically victimized by their distributors (pharmaceutical companies) as those who are addicted to the illegal variety. The difference between the two types of addiction is superficial: people take illegal drugs because they make them feel good, or at least, for a moment, while those who take legal drugs have the same goal; they want to feel better.
The problem, however, is that pharmaceuticals don’t seem to be made for “cures” of health anomalies; at this point in our evolution the major trend in pharmaceutical research targets “band aid cures,” those things that will keep a person using it stuck in a holding pattern of perpetual medical limbo that requires constant usage of substances that will only satisfy people as long as they continue to purchase and use them. True healing does not seem to be the desired outcome of healthcare policy today, as evidenced by the huge number of “side effects” resulting from their usage. Hopefully, society is just in a “developmental period” in addressing healthcare that will eventually morph into the discovery of real permanent cures. We should look forward to that day! Aluta continua.
(Reprinted from the Chicago Crusader)
Founded 1910
Big Ugly Republican Budget Bill
(TriceEdneyWire.com)—Why would anyone who cares about the least of God’s people call the budget bill that just passed the big beautiful bill?
Those who voted for it have a peculiar sense of the word beauty. We have 100 U.S. Senators who spent a lot of time debating a bill they were sent over from the House of Representatives—with instructions to pass this bill by July 4th. The irony of that instruction was that July 4th is Independence Day.
On the final vote only two Republicans had the courage to be independent!
After a lot of threats were issued about what would happen to them if they didn’t do what the man in the White House told them to do, they would have a problem. A few kept declaring they didn’t like one thing or another in the bill, but they continued voting for it to the very end even as they twisted and turned and talked about what was wrong with it.
Many were reminded often how the bill would hurt their constituents, but even the complainers were too afraid to vote in the best interest of their constituents. They were more afraid of what the president would do than they cared about what their constituents would do when they really found out what was in the bill!
I’m talking about big bad Republicans who bowed down to the threats they knew they faced if they didn’t
vote as they were told to do. After hours of hearing why they shouldn’t, they finally passed the budget bill and sent it to the White House. This is the largest wealth transfer in history from poor and working-class people to millionaires and billionaires without shame!
It will throw more than 16 million people off health insurance, cut1 trillion $ from Medicaid, shuttering many nursing homes and rural hospitals, take nutrition help away from hungry kids and families who need it, eliminate hundreds of thousands of clean energy jobs while jeopardizing billions of dollars in wind and solar energy investments, cut Pell Grants for millions of students pursuing higher education and needing the grant without which they may either have to forego their studies or prolong the time before they can complete them—if ever.
This big beautiful bill is all for the pleasure of serving the wealthy —many of whom could well have lived forever on their savings! It was proof of what a song we’ve too often heard—“Them That’s Got Shall Get.” Republicans were too willing to
reward the already ultra-wealthy and dump billions of dollars into ICE’s secret police to further terrorize certain people just trying to find any kind of honest work to educate their children and feed their families. Republicans give new meaning to “Family Values” by so many of their actions, including voting for this so called big beautiful bill they were told to support. Their instructions were “Do It or Else” so they did it. By the next election, let us pray they will be replaced by officials who deserve to be in the House and Senate to serve the people they promised to represent.
Taking the final vote, they told their constituents that it’s okay to add 4 trillion $ to the national debt so long as that money is being funneled to the wealthy and our increasingly militarized police state —but forget about helping their less fortunate constituents! They planned things so their poor constituents won’t get a clear picture of how they’ve been deceived until it’s too late. Many cuts won’t take effect until AFTER the 2026 midterm elections. Republicans will be back again to make grand promises and blame Democrats for all that went wrong.
It’s up to us to remind our Republican neighbors what really happened and how it will happen again if they continue with amnesia as to which Party actually works for them.
(TriceEdneyWire.com)—The big ugly boondoggle, which our President calls The Big Beautiful Bill, is a disgusting transfer of resources from the poor to the wealthy, preserving 2017 tax cuts, cutting Medicaid and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance program, or food stamps), imposing new work requirements for benefits, and increasing defense spending by at least thirteen percent. Kasey Kosgarian, Director of the National Priorities Project of the Institute for Policy Studies posed our choices as “weapons and war or food and health care”. We have apparently chosen weapons and war, and apparently the rest of us exist in peril.
Treatises can be written about the odious bill, and the many aspects that leave millions without health care and food assistance, existing with a safety net that has been maliciously shredded. We shouldn’t be surprised, since this is what was promised in Project 2025. We will pay in the long run as our future, our students, will encounter great obstacles as they attempt to prepare themselves to be economically competitive in the future.
I am especially concerned about cuts to higher education, and to Pell Grants, as part of the Big Ugly. Grants for higher education attendance were part of the Higher Education Act, passed in 1965 as part of President Lyndon Johnson’s Great Society Program. The Pell grant, named after Senator Claiborne Pell (D-RI) was authorized in 1972 as a Basic Educational Opportunity Grant (BEOG), and was designed to provide grants to low income families, as opposed to (or in addition to) the
loans that formerly funded higher education.
In 1972, Pell grants covered about 75 percent of college costs, between $8000 and $9000 in today’s dollars.
The value of the Pell has steadily eroded. In 2013, the maximum Pell was $5645, again in today’s dollars. President Biden increased the Pell to a maximum of $7395 for academic year 2024. In contrast, the tuition and fees at Howard University that year was $35,810. The total cost of attendance was $58052. Some families can pay some of the cost, but most low income students cobble together Pell, loans, outside scholarships, and parental contributions. The Pell covered only a fifth of Howard University’s tuition, and just an eighth of the total cost of attendance.
The Big Ugly will make college access even more challenging. It would cut the Pell to $5710, a 23 percent cut. It would only provide the maximum Pell for students who enroll for a full load of 15 credit hours a semester.
Often first-year students are advised to take a lighter load, four classes instead of five, especially if they may need time to adjust to college. I’d rather a student take a lighter load and achieve solidly, than to have a student struggle with five classes.
About 40 percent of undergraduate students rely on Pell grants to get through college. The lowest among
them will likely drop out. This imperils our future. How are we to compete internationally if millions of our students can’t afford higher education?
The legislation that cuts Pell grants, part of the Big Ugly, also limits or eliminates benefits to part-time and community college students. A student who is enrolled less than half time (7.5 credits) would receive no Pell money at all. Yet millions of students who work full time (or part time) and attend school part time will lose benefits. These include working moms and dads, differently abled students, and others who can’t manage a full time load. At a time when employment needs demand flexibility, legislation is insisting on punitive rigidity.
The Department of Education has been so crippled by this President’s “slash and burn” approach to education that there is little input from the department around the harmful effects of these Pell changes. Who in Congress will speak up for our nation’s students?
Our young people are our future, yet we treat them like debris. In divesting from college access and attendance, we are divesting from our futures. Our international rivals are investing in education, while we are divesting. In the long run, this will give them the competitive advantage that will leave us falling even further behind than we are now. Who gains? Oligarchs! Predatory capitalists! And a President who hawks Bibles and Alligator Alcatraz instead of our robust American future. (Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an economist, author and educator. She is President Emerita of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, North Carolina.)
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Recently, in Allegheny County, there has been an increase in neighborhood street violence in Black communities. Some call this “Blackon-Black” crime, as this has resulted in many young Black people being killed. Before I go on, I will say that hood violence is horrible, and we lose our people to both death and jail. I have personally experienced this, so I will never frame this as something that hasn’t hurt our communities. Not to mention the trauma and desensitization it inflicts on our mindset, and affects our community apathy as well. Nevertheless, the idea of Black-on-Black crime is a myth and an example of internalized racism and White supremacy. I know that may shock some, but let me explain. Sociologist Karen D. Pyke is credited with coining the concept of “internalized racism.” She defines it as the “internalization of racial oppression” and something that is done both consciously and unconsciously. One way this occurs is by having people believe in their heads that racism is OK. Yes, even Black people. When I say people, I don’t mean the government or other officials. To maintain White supremacy, it must be put into the mindset that influences one’s behavior or societal attitudes. This helps to normalize it and is why the media is constantly putting Black people and immigrants out there as criminals. If you
aren’t conscious of this, you begin to believe this and buy into it as well. Furthermore, the majority of all violent crime in the United States happens between people of the same race. So, why do we never hear about White-on-White crime, etc.? Additionally, this is also used to push Black people to have an overdependence on police, push fear in our communities, and cause division. Locally, I have witnessed this dangerous pattern too many times. When shootings occur, the community often responds with a vigil or something similar, and the local government pushes for an increase in policing. We praise this and advocate for more community policing, which often shows up as law enforcement at local events like “Kids with Cops” and hiring more Black officers. Usually, those events are surveillance opportunities for police and result in putting our youth on their radar. More police are hired, and conditions worsen. Police end up harming Black and other community members, some-
times resulting in fatalities. People then reach out to advocates like me for support. When we suggest solutions like abolishing or defunding the police, these ideas sound crazy or even radical to some. This is due to the trauma caused by racism, which has led some to be complacent with a world in which police violence is normalized, rather than envisioning a future without such institutions. Not to mention, this is applying a Band-Aid to the problem without really addressing the solution. Violent crime is a symptom of underlying societal issues; as a solution, we should be investing in community initiatives that are not dependent on grants, such as neighborhood block watch, etc. These funds are also overseen by local officials who sustain racism in their practices. This shows up in only providing funds to organizations they deem safe, which also results in certain nonprofits monopolizing funds and causing burnout among those working to utilize these resources, under unrealistic grant timelines. Furthermore, these funds can be taken away at any time, as we are currently witnessing with the “Stop the Violence” money. We must unlearn our internalized racism; otherwise, we will continue to perpetuate negative patterns that work against our interests.
Julianne Malveaux
Ouster
president attacks academic freedom
(TriceEdneyWire.com)—The forced resigna-
tion of James E. Ryan as president of the University of Virginia at the hands of the Trump administration marks a dangerous precedent for American higher education. The federal government’s ultimatum that Ryan step down as a condition for resolving a civil rights investigation into UVA’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs is not just a governmental overreach—it is a direct threat to the independence of public universities and the principles of academic freedom. The Trump administration, aided by a governing Board of Visitors appointed entirely by Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin, forced Ryan’s ouster. The move undermines the principle of state control over public universities. While it sparked outrage on campus and across the state of Virginia, it contradicts the political philosophy held by conservatives, who advocate for “limited government” while fighting against the encroaching power of the federal government.
In June 2025, the Justice Department informed the University of Virginia that Ryan’s resignation was a prerequisite for resolving its civil rights investigation. The Justice Department had threatened to block all federal funds to the second-oldest public university in the country if Ryan remained in office. The New York Times first reported Ryan’s resignation, citing DOJ claims that the institution had merely rebranded its DEI efforts instead of eliminating them. If Ryan chose to fight
David W. Marshall
Commentary
and challenge the firing, he could have easily tapped into a UVA-trained legal community that would have backed him. He would also have the support of the network of alumni and students from the state’s flagship institution, who share a passionate commitment to academic freedom. Ultimately, Ryan chose the selfless route. In a letter to the university community, Ryan wrote, “To make a long story short, I am inclined to fight for what I believe in, and I believe deeply in the University. But I cannot make a unilateral decision to fight the federal government in order to save my own job. To do so would not only be quixotic but appear selfish and self-centered to the hundreds of employees who would lose their jobs, the researchers who would lose their funding, and the hundreds of students who could lose financial aid or have their visas withheld.” Armand Alacbay, senior vice president of strategy at the American Council of Trustees and Alumni, a nonprofit group focused on higher education governance, said an institution’s leadership is the domain of its governing board. The resignation is a product, he said, of unprecedented “governmental intrusion. “I think there’s grave danger to the quality and future of higher education if these types of decisions become a function of the federal government, “Alacbay said.
This becomes a major problem because the federal government’s actions in this case are unprecedented. Legal experts struggle to recall a time when the federal government demanded a university board fire its president over policy disagreements. Academic freedom is the cornerstone of American higher education. It allows faculty, students, and administrators to pursue knowledge, debate ideas, and challenge prevailing norms without fear of political retribution. The message from the Trump administration is loud and clear: conform to a political agenda that has redefined the true meaning and spirit of diversity, equity, and inclusion, or face the severe consequences. The administration is willing to use federal funding and direct interventions in university leadership as weapons to enforce ideological conformity. The forced resignation of James Ryan serves as a warning and wake-up call to all university presidents: your job security depends not on your performance, but on your willingness to comply with the political demands of the federal government.
We recognize that the strategic decline in diversity, equity, and inclusion at universities will have a lasting impact on students of color. Eliminating initiatives designed to foster inclusion will ultimately result in a campus environment and college experience that is less welcoming, as it allows outward forms of discrimination to exist unchecked, with fewer support networks for students from diverse backgrounds. As a result, decades of progress toward educational equity will be reversed. With the decline of DEI initiatives and the loss of affirmative action in admissions, colleges have already reported drops in applications and enrollments from Black and Hispanic students. For example, Harvard Law School and the University of North Carolina have seen notable decreases in Black and Hispanic student populations after the Supreme Court struck down affirmative action.
The federal government’s role should be to support, not control, institutions of higher learning. Universities play a critical role in preparing future leaders in a diverse society and employees for diverse workplaces, but the trend caused by this renewed federal pressure is leaning toward a more politically polarized, restrictive, and less inclusive environment in American higher learning. If this type of overreach continues, the price will be paid not just by university presidents but by students, faculty, and society as a whole.
(David W. Marshall is the founder of the faithbased organization, TRB: The Reconciled Body, and author of the book “God Bless Our Divided America”.)
SCOTUS deadlocked on first Catholic charter school: is there an Islamic route?
In the cases of Oklahoma Statewide Virtual Charter School Board v. Drummond and St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School v. Drummond, Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett recused herself, leading to a deadlock on whether the Catholic Church could establish the country’s first religious charter school.
The Supreme Court’s recent 4-4 decision muted the Court at a time when its majority judgment was critical to resolving the current battle over the separation of church and state.
In 2023, the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City and the Diocese of Tulsa, who run Catholic schools, decided to see how far the conservative-dominated Supreme Court would go to safeguard religious liberty. These Catholic Church leaders proposed St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School, a K-12 online charter school with a curriculum based on Catholic beliefs. They sought to provide a tuition-free option for families who want a private education but cannot afford it.
Oklahoma’s governing board for charter schools approved the Catholic Church’s application 3-2, but the state’s attorney general, Republican Gentner Drummond, sued the board, claiming that its approval of St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School created a state-sponsored religious public school, which is illegal.
In 2024, the Oklahoma Supreme Court sided with Drummond, ruling 6-2 that charter schools, which are taxpayer-funded but independently operated, are still public schools, and state law mandates public education to be secular.
The Oklahoma State Charter Board and the Catholic Virtual School filed an appeal with the United States Supreme Court. They contended that once the state allowed private entities to operate charter schools, these schools retained enough independence from the state to keep them from being classified as “public” schools. Furthermore, if the state allows other private entities to run charter schools while excluding the Catholic Church, then the state is unconstitutionally discriminating against religion.
The case presented the United States Supreme Court with two questions to
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answer.
1. Whether a charter school that is founded and operated by private entities is, for First Amendment purposes, considered either part of the government or generally engaged in state action.
2. Whether a state violates the Free Exercise Clause by excluding religious schools from a charter school program. It was claimed that Justice Barrett recused herself because she was close acquaintances with the legal counsel to the Oklahoma Catholic Church, which founded St. Isidore. Barrett’s absence left eight justices: five conservatives and three liberals. According to USA Today, “During oral arguments, the court’s conservative majority seemed sympathetic to the Catholic Church’s proposal, which would have been a major expansion of the use of taxpayer money for religious education. But one of the five conservative justices who participated in the case eventually sided with the three liberal justices concerned about the erosion of the separation of church and state.”
Annie Laurie Gaylor, co-president of the Freedom From Religion Foundation, viewed the Supreme Court’s 4-4 decision as a victory for constitutional principles.
Gaylor was wrong. This was not a victory. The 4-4 split upholds the decision of the Oklahoma Supreme Court for the time being, but it sets no precedent that charter schools are public schools, which means that another church group with no ties to Barrett could revisit the case and potentially establish the first religious charter school because Barrett would not be recused; she would be the tie-breaking vote.
The case divided conservatives. Some conservatives support religion in public schools and believe that restricting it is discriminatory, while others wish to preserve America’s found-
ing principle of separation of church and state. The Republican governor of Oklahoma declared, “This issue is far from being settled. We are going to keep fighting for parents’ rights to instill their values in their children and against religious discrimination.”
Drummond claimed that permitting the Catholic charter school would “open the floodgates and force taxpayers to fund all manner of religious indoctrination, including radical Islam and even the Church of Satan.”
Oklahoma’s governor called Drummond’s remarks “open hostility against religion.”
Drummond is not hostile to religion. He only objects to state-sponsored proselytizing, and Catholics and Protestants can be as ardent as radical Islam in this regard. However, if St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School decides not to incorporate Catholic teachings into its curriculum, there is a non-radical Islamic charter school model it could follow.
In 2012, CBS’s 60 Minutes aired a segment on “The Gulen Movement.”
Fethullah Gulen was a Turkish Islamic cleric who emphasized tolerance, interfaith dialogue, and education. Gulen’s followers established a network of successful charter schools in the United States, focusing on science and math. The Gulen Movement established 130 charter schools in 26 states. (They’ve also built schools in Turkey, Togo, and Taiwan.) 60 Minutes wanted to know what motivated the followers of a Turkish Islamic cleric to devote themselves to operating independent public schools.
Gulen taught his followers that if they want to be devout Muslims, they should build schools instead of mosques. These schools should teach science, not religion. Gulen proclaimed in sermons that “studying physics, mathematics, and chemistry is worshipping God.” He also emphasized to his followers that education, not religious belief, is the only way to solve social problems.
Unfortunately, if the Catholic Church was advised to model their charter schools after the Gulen Movement, the Catholic Church would urge the advisors to go to hell.
Talent over tokenism: Black mayors slash crime despite media silence
While cable news pundits and national newspapers often fixate on urban dysfunction, Black mayors across America are delivering measurable, record-breaking progress in public safety—and getting almost no credit for it.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott and Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin have overseen some of the steepest reductions in violent crime their cities have experienced in decades. But they are far from alone. From New York to Los Angeles to Chicago, Black mayors are proving that talent, vision, and a relentless focus on evidence-based policy—not tokenism—are transforming communities. Yet their achievements have largely been ignored by mainstream media outlets that rarely look past sensational headlines.
Baltimore, long branded one of America’s most dangerous cities, released midyear crime data showing a 22 percent drop in homicides compared to the same period last year. Nonfatal shootings are down 19 percent, and juvenile homicide victims have declined by an astonishing 71 percent. Police are solving more crimes, with a homicide clearance rate of 64 percent and a nonfatal shooting clearance rate 20 percentage points above the department’s 10-year average. “These historic lows are the result of a comprehensive, evidence-based public safety strategy that we have implemented in partnership with residents,” Mayor Scott said. “But our work is far from over—68 lives lost to violence is 68 too many.”
The progress didn’t happen by chance. Under Scott’s leadership, the Baltimore Police Department has combined targeted enforcement with offers of help. Commissioner Richard Worley described how the Group Violence Reduction Strategy works: “We go out and give them a letter and basically say, ‘Listen, we know you were doing the shooting. We want you to put the guns down, or we will take you and your entire drug operation off the street. But here are the services—job training, education, relocation.’” Meanwhile, in Birmingham, Mayor Woodfin has led an aggressive, community-driven approach that’s paid off. The city’s homicide rate has fallen 52 percent compared to last year, and the clearance rate for homicides has surged to 79 percent, a level rarely seen in major cities.
“The Birmingham Police Department is extremely aggressive in what they’re doing and how they’re taking a different approach in policing our community,” Woodfin said. He credited a blend of new technology, such
Stacy M. Brown Commentary
as the Real Time Crime Center, and grassroots cooperation. “When you share information, it doesn’t allow the criminal element to be emboldened and hide behind fear of people,” Woodfin explained. “Those who are killing people are not just walking our streets.” Birmingham Police Chief Michael Pickett said the city’s street outreach teams are also preventing retaliatory shootings before they happen. “We are really, really hammering at it,” Pickett told the City Council. “I am very appreciative of all the men and women in the Birmingham Police Department who are leading our fight.”
While total violent crime in Birmingham has edged up slightly, the plunge in homicides shows that sustained focus and coordination can work—even if major media don’t bother to cover it. State and federal partners in Maryland have also acknowledged Baltimore’s progress. “Baltimore City released a midyear report showing the fewest homicides ever recorded at this point in a single year,” Maryland Governor Wes Moore’s office said in a statement. Across the country, other Black mayors are driving similar results.
In New York City, Mayor Eric Adams has presided over a 24 percent drop in shootings and a 14 percent decline in murders so far in 2025, the fewest shooting incidents recorded in more than a decade. Robberies and burglaries are also down, with NYPD data showing consistent reductions
across nearly every major crime category. On the West Coast, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass saw homicides fall 14 percent in 2024 and gang-related killings drop nearly 45 percent in areas targeted by community safety programs. Overall violent crime declined by 3 percent, and property crimes like burglary and auto theft dropped by thousands of incidents compared to the prior year.
In Chicago, Mayor Brandon Johnson has overseen a 22 percent decrease in murders and a 31 percent drop in shootings through early 2025, reaching the city’s lowest homicide totals in over a decade. Officials credit community-based outreach and investments in neighborhood violence prevention. And in Atlanta, Mayor Andre Dickens announced that violent crime was down nearly 16 percent in 2024, with homicides decreasing and property crime dropping as well. The city has invested in hiring more officers while expanding the At-Promise Centers that connect youth with educational and mental health resources.
In both large and mid-sized cities, the results are undeniable: fewer families burying loved ones, more cases solved, and more residents willing to engage with police. But to hear much of the national narrative, you’d never know it. As several social media users have pointed out, in Baltimore, Birmingham, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Atlanta, Black leadership is not a box to check or a headline to boast about. It’s what drives real, life-saving change— whether the national media notices or not. “While we acknowledge the historic lows we are experiencing, we must simultaneously acknowledge that there is much more work to do,” Scott stated. “And our success makes me commit even further to doing it.”
TREASURER’S SALE SALE BY THE TREASURER OF THE CITY AND SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PITTSBURGH OF REAL ESTATE TO SATISFY UNPAID CLAIMS FOR CITY, SCHOOL AND ALLEGHENY COUNTY TAXES TO BE HELD ON FRIDAY, JULY 18, 2025 AT 10:00 A.M.
Notice is hereby given that pursuant to the provisions of Act No. 171 of 1984, approved by the Governor October 11, 1984, of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, which in part authorizes and empowers the City Treasurer of cities of the second class to sell, at public sale, lands or real estate upon which the taxes assessed and levied by the City or School District or Allegheny County are delinquent and unpaid; this Act is known as the Second Class City Treasurer’s Sale and Collection Act. The following properties in the City of Pittsburgh will be exposed to public sale in City Council Chambers, City-County Building 5th Floor, Pittsburgh, PA, on Friday, July 18, 2025 at 10:00 A.M. and continued by adjournment to such time or times, as the City Treasurer shall designate such properties shall be sold for unpaid taxes which have been assessed against said properties. The following schedule shows (opposite each numbered property or properties) the City, School and County taxes for 2024 and prior years as well as PWSA, demolition, and other municipal charges which are unpaid but does not include advertising, posting and lien charges all of which are legally due and must be paid prior to the above date and time of sale in order to avoid sale. Names shown are those of owners, lienholders, or other known interested parties who may retain a legal interest in the property described. Said Sale will be made without prejudice to any other liens or claims of the City, School District of Pittsburgh or County of Allegheny, for any other unpaid taxes, or other municipal charges and claims, whether liened or not, against the respective property which have been inadvertently omitted and not included herein.
TERMS OF SALE: As soon as the property is struck down, the purchaser shall:
(1) Immediately pay the advertised amount by cashier/certified check or cash set forth opposite the particular property sold. Payment must be in cash, certified check or cashier’s check.
(2) Any amount bid in excess of the upset price must be received in the Department of Finance on or before 2:00 P.M. the day of sale. Funds to be paid by cash, certified check or cashier’s check.
(3) Pay any and all other City, School and County tax claims and municipal charges and claims, whether liened or not, together with any penalty and interest, advertising cost, posting cost and County Department of Court Records’ costs owed against the property purchased upon demand after the sale.
(4) Failure to comply with item 3 will result in the initial payment being forfeited and the sale being canceled.
For information call the Office of the City Treasurer, City of Pittsburgh, City-County Building, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Phone: (412) 255-2525
Jennifer Gula, Treasurer, City and School District of Pittsburgh
PUBLIC NOTICE
CLOSING OF WAITING LISTS
Effective Monday, July 14, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) will close the following Low Income Public Housing community waiting lists:
• Bedford Dwellings - (2 and 3bedroom)
No pre-applications will be accepted for these waiting lists after the closing date and time. Public Notice will be provided when the HACP determines to re-open specific waiting lists.
Fifth Ward 2. EST OF IRMA E ROBERTSON - 1050010M00264 00. 2560 BRACKENRIDGE ST, LOT 37.5X91.32 BRECKENRIDGE AV BET WALLACE & MORGAN 2 STY BRK AS
HSE-#2560 PARTIAL CLAIM...............$53,805.14
3. LEWIS DONNA & LEWIS TODD - 1050010M00267 00. 2568 BRACKENRIDGE ST, LOT 25X91.32 BRECKENRIDGE AVE 2 STY BRK ALUM SDG HSE 2568
PARTIAL CLAIM...............$24,658.48
4. PENN PROPERTIES CO INC - 1050026F00339 00. RIDGWAY ST, THOS MC NEIL PLAN PT 10 LOT 21.36XAVG112.47X30. 23 RR RIDGEWAY COR LISBON STS
PARTIAL CLAIM................$3,146.40
5. JOHNSON JANE - 1050026P00111 00. CLARISSA ST, ROBINSON BROS PLAN PT
55 LOT 16.32X100 CLARISSA ST 2 STY BR HSE 805
PARTIAL CLAIM...............$29,148.27
Tenth Ward
7. YOUNGBLOOD LEONA A - 1100081C00082 00. COLERIDGE ST, LOT 50X101.46
COLERIDGE ST 1 1/2 STY BRK HSE & ATTACHED GAR 4627
PARTIAL CLAIM................$1,291.62
Eleventh Ward 9. LYLE AUDREY I - 1110083G00028 00. 621 N EUCLID AVE, PT 11 LOT 30X100 N
EUCLID AV 2 STY BRK HSE 621 C B GAR
PARTIAL CLAIM...............$18,641.20 10. 2414 MORGAN DEVELOPMENT & LLC - 1110083P00140 00. 215-217 N HIGH -
LAND AVE, LOT 112.4X180X90.37 HIGHLAND AVE 2 STY BRK & STN BLDG 215-217
PARTIAL CLAIM..............$321,544.48
Twelfth Ward 11. BENTLEY ANTHONY I - 1120124C00036 00. 6401 CLIFFORD ST, 68 LOT
25XAVG211X23.71 RR CLIFFORD ST 2 STY ALUM SDG HSE #6401
PARTIAL CLAIM...............$23,101.15
12. HALL DOUGLAS - 1120124G00058 00. 6405 CLIFFORD ST, DEAN PARK PLAN
71 LOT 25X197.26 CLIFFORD ST NR PAULSON
PARTIAL CLAIM..................$135.37
13. HALL DOUGLAS - 1120124G00059 00. 6405 CLIFFORD ST, DEAN PARK PLAN
70 LOT 25XAVG200.5 CLIFFORD ST 2 STY ALUM HSE #6405
PARTIAL CLAIM..................$842.89
14. SMITH WALTER J - 1120124K00143 00. 6327 SHETLAND ST, BALL PARK PLAN
25 LOT 25X100 SHETLAND AV 2 STY BRK DUPLEX 6327
PARTIAL CLAIM................$8,469.96
15. PATTERSON SONDA R - 1120124K00266 00. 644 PAULSON AVE, R THOMPSON PLAN 78 LOT 25X109.58 PAULSON AVE 2 STY BRK V HSE 644
PARTIAL CLAIM...............$11,237.05
16. GLORIOUS CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST (THE) - 1120124S00068 00. ROWAN
ST, LOT 50X120 ROWAN AVE
PARTIAL CLAIM................$9,836.44
18. FORBES CENTER REALTY LLC & ESPLANADE CAPITAL L L C - 1120125B00270
00. LINCOLN AVE, GEO FINLEY PLAN PT 3 LOT 50XAVG131.68 LINCOLN A VE
PARTIAL CLAIM..................$941.13
19. ALLEN NORMA J - 1120172N00060 00. 6909 CHURCHLAND ST, LEMINGTON SQUARE PLAN PT 90-91 LOT 35.96X110 IN ALL CHURCHLAND ST 2 STY BRK HSE 6909 PARTIAL CLAIM................$7,380.87 20. REED ROBERT & REED ERNESTINE - 1120173F00131 00. 1559
LAND AVE, ARLINGTON PL PLAN 66 LOT 25X140 PARTIAL CLAIM................$4,019.26 Thirteenth Ward 21. HOME OPPORTUNITY LLC & HALO ASSET
1-800-Pack-Rat (PA-Leetsdale-5463) 142 Ferry St Leetsdale, PA 15056 877-774-1537
NOTICE OF SALE
Tenant: Unit # Barkus, Ben D54464 Barkus, Ben D55179 Cindric, Joseph D04228 Cushey, David 705217 Jones, Kevin D65319 Kenny, Erin D00805 Liberto, Michael D56807 Lucas, Saria D03154 Miller, Wilbur D01250 Todd, David /Carol mom D56996
1-800-Pack-Rat (PA-Leetsdale-5463), 142 Ferry St, Leetsdale, PA 15056, has possessory lien on all of the goods stored in the units above. All these items of personal property are being sold pursuant to the assertion of the lien on 7/10/2025 at 10:00 AM in order to collect the amounts due from you. The sale will take place on www.storagetreasures.com from 7/10/2025 to 7/17/2025 at 12:00 PM
LEGAL ADVERTISING Legal Notices
JAY
& BINDELL BINAH T & NAIDITCH PAUL & NAIDITCH THERESA L - 1140086N00252 00. 5535 KAMIN ST, WENDOVER HTS PLAN 14 PT 15 LOT 49.62X110.12X64. 54 RR IN ALL WENDOVER COR KAMIN 3 STY BRK APT BLDG 5535 PARTIAL CLAIM...............$28,595.88
29. WOODS ROBERT - 1140125S00166 00. JONATHAN ST, LOT 33.2X87.52X37.91 RR JONATHAN PLACE COR LANG PARTIAL CLAIM................$1,652.15
Fifteenth Ward 30. BORTZ RONALD E & BORTZ JO ANN - 1150055M00020 00. 628 HAZELWOOD AVE, WHITTAKER EST PLAN PT 10 LOT 55.97XAVG110.67X55 .41 RR HAZELWOOD AVE 1 STY BRK V HSE-INT GAR 628 PARTIAL CLAIM...............$14,283.13
32. ROBINSON JOHN & ROBINSON HELEN - 1150057C00004 00. 130 MANSION ST, MANSION HSE PLAN 118 LOT 24X120 MANSION ST BET 2ND AV & GLENWOOD 2 STY FRA HSE #13 PARTIAL CLAIM................$3,154.41
Sixteenth Ward
34. EST OF YOCHUM DORIS M - 1160013J00134 00. 1825 WAITE ST, WM WAITE PLAN PT 6 LOT 25X104 WAITE ST 2 1/2 STY FRA & ALUM SDG HSE #1825
PARTIAL CLAIM................$6,825.94 35. SMITHFIELD HOLDINGS INC - 1160013L00213 00. 2428 ARLINGTON AVE, ST HENRY PLAN LOT 1 = 154.69X144.12X66.95X75X81.62X175.66
PARTIAL CLAIM................$3,606.12
36. SMITHFIELD HOLDINGS INC - 1160013L00213 01. 2428 ARLINGTON AVE, ST HENRY PLAN LOT 1 = 154.69X144.12X66.95X75X81.62X175.66
PARTIAL CLAIM................$5,543.22
37. MILLS SHELLY A - 1160013N00114 00. 222 MOUNTAIN AVE, THOMAS & TAYLOR PLAN #2 LOT 60.27XAVG191.04 X52.04 DAWES ST COR MOUNTAIN ST PARTIAL CLAIM................$2,070.38
38. WILLIAMS BRADY - 1160030N00125 00. 329 BASSLER ST, ARLINGTON PL PLAN 106-107 LOT 50X100 IN ALL BAS 2 STY FRA-SHGL HSE 329 SLER ST PARTIAL CLAIM................$7,777.87
39. MCCAULEY MARION M & MCCAULEY BRUCE - 1160032S00063 00. 632 BECKS RUN RD, ANTHONY HEDGER PLAN PT 8 IRREG LOT 40.43X363.71 X10 RR BECKS RUN RD 2 STY FRA ALUM HSE 632 PARTIAL CLAIM...............$10,043.31 Eighteenth Ward 41. AMERICAN IMPORT EXPORT TRADING CO LLC ALI MASOUD - 1180004R00243A 00. 65-67 CUSHMAN ST, J M BAILEY PLAN PTS 30-31 LOT 31X66.50 IN ALL C USHMAN ST 2 STY ASB-SHG-DBLE HSE #65-67 PARTIAL CLAIM................$3,894.00
42. FOUR CORNERS HOLDINGS INC - 1180014B00087 00. 727 CARNIVAL WAY, BOYD & ALLEN PLAN PT LOT 17 = 20X75X5X10X15X65 PT LOT 17 = 10X15X10X15 PARTIAL CLAIM...............$13,501.32
43. FLANIGAN PATRICK J & FLANIGAN TAMI - 1180014F00287 00. 304 ASTEROID WAY, KURTZ PLAN #2 IRREG LOT 47.42X40X25 ASTEROID WAY 2 STY ALUM HSE #304 PARTIAL CLAIM................$8,131.54
Nineteenth Ward 44. ANDREWS RICHARD W & EST OF MARIE ANDREWS - 1190061P00053 00. LYNNBROOK AVE, ANDREWS PLAN (AREA TO BE DEDICATED FOR FUTURE R/W)--LOT=
100X20.49X100 (.047 A LD) LYNNBROOK AVE PARTIAL CLAIM................$1,774.26
45. EST OF ROY LEE VACHINO - 1190062D00053 00. 2031 FAIR AVE, KING PL PLAN 50 LOT 30XAVG94.02X30.22 RR FAIR A IR PARTIAL CLAIM................$4,949.74
Twentieth Ward
46. DIX IRENE - 1200020R00238 00. UVILLA ST, C H LOVE PLAN PT LOT 117 = 20.31X53.47X1.29X50 PT VACATED MARLOW ST = 20X50X20X50
PARTIAL CLAIM................$1,084.29
47. KRUEGER ROBERT - 1200020R00296 00. COMSTOCK WAY, FOX PLAN 157-158 LOT 60X83.5 IN ALL COMSTOCK WY BET FURLEY & UVILLA
Estate of MICHAEL A. MARINO, Deceased of 24 Kenmore Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15221, Estate No.: 02-25-01565, Excutrix, Amy Glance, 36 Kenmore Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15221 or to William C. Price, Jr., Price & Associates, P.C., 2005 Noble Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15218
Estate of HAROLD BRUNN ROTH A/K/A HAROLD B. ROTH, Deceased of Pittsburgh, PA, Estate No.: 03615 of 2025, Excutrix, Heather Roth and Carolyn Roth or to E.J. Strassburger, Esq., Strassburger McKenna Gutnick & Gefsky, 444 Liberty Avenue, Ste. 2200, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Estate of IRENE ROSE EASLER A/K/A IRENE R. EASLER, Deceased of Verona, Estate No.: 03723 of 2025, Excutrix, Debora Easler and Shirley Moffat or to Devin Hallett Snyder, Esq., Strassburger McKenna Gutnick & Gefsky, 444 Liberty Avenue, Ste. 2200, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Estate of MR. FRANCO AMICORE, JR. Deceased of 814 9th Street, Mckees Rocks, PA 15136, Estate No.: 02-25-03961, Ms. Paulette Amicone, Administrator c/o Max C. Feldman, Esquire and the Law Office of Max C. Feldman, 1322 5th Avenue, Coraopolis, PA 15108
Petition to Determine Title to 119 Bridge Street, Oakdale, PA 15071, formerly owned by ELLA MAE WILLIAMS, A/K/A ELLA WILLIAMS, deceased, filed June 24, 2025 by Brian Williams, No. 4051 of 2025 Peter B. Lewis, Neighborhood Legal Services, 928 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222, Counsel.
Estate of DENNIS M. FLAHERTY Case No. 4062 of 2025. Will admitted to probate by Order dated June 24, 2025. No estate opened. Peter B. Lewis, Counsel, Neighborhood Legal Services, 928 Penn Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222.
Estate of MARY E. MAYOWSKI, Deceased of McKees Rocks, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, No. 02-25-03645, Albert J. Mayowski, Jr., Executor, 1067 Waterford Court East, Canonsburg, PA 15317 or to TODD A. FULLER, Atty; BRENLOVE & FULLER, LLC., 401 Washington Avenue, Bridgeville, PA 15017
Estate of MS. CYNTHIA LU GALISH A/K/A CYNTHIA N. GALISH, Deceased, of 135 Jarod Drive, Moon Township, PA 15108. Estate No. 02-25-03746. Mr. John F. Nusser, Executor, c/o Feldman Law Group, PLLC, 1322 5th Avenue, Coraopolis, PA 15108
ANNOUNCEMENTS Meetings
The City of Pittsburgh Equal Opportunity Review Commission will host a regular meeting on Thursday, July 17th from 12-1pm. It will take place in the Learning Lab on the sixth floor of the City-County Building; 414 Grant Street, Pittsburgh PA 15219.
On the Agenda:
• Introduction: Roll Call
• Approval of June 2025 Minutes
• Public Comment
• July Plans (Review and Action)
• ITQ Contracts (Notice Only)
• Contract Alerts & Violations (Notice Only)
• Commissioner Comments
• Office of Business Diversity Comments
For more information email EORC@pittsburghpa.gov.
CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS!
INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that specifications and proposal forms for furnishing all labor and materials for the following project entitled: St. Edmund’s Academy PCCD 2023-24 Targeted Non-Public School Safety Grant: Purchase & Installation of VoIP Public Announcement (PA) System Speakers and Horns may be obtained via email from 8:00 A.M. to 4 P.M. beginning 06/23/2025. Please email Diana McAllister, dianamcallister@stedmunds.net, in order to obtain the bid package. BIDS FOR ALL PROJECTS WILL BE RECEIVED UNTIL 4:00 PM ON 07/11/2025. Bids will be publicly opened at 1PM on 07/21/2025 at St. Edmund’s Academy, 5705 Darlington Road., Pittsburgh, PA 15217. Bids must be on standard proposal forms in the manner therein described and be enclosed in a sealed envelope, bearing the name and address of the bidder on the outside, addressed to Diana McAllister, St. Edmund’s Academy and marked with the project name to the following address: 5705 Darlington Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15217.
Contractors bidding on the work must bring a certified check to bid opening upon a National or State bank, drawn and made payable without condition to St. Edmund’s Academy in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the bid, or a bid bond of not less than 5% and be delivered to the place and hour named. Certified checks brought to opening will be fully returned at the conclusion of the bid opening. Compliance is required with the Pennsylvania Prevailing Wage Act of 1961, P.L. 987, No 442; Title VI and other applicable provisions of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; the Department of Labor Equal Opportunity Clause (41 CFR 60 -1.4); Executive Order 11625 (Utilization of Minority Business Enterprise); Executive Order 12138 (Utilization of Female Business Enterprise); in compliance with Section 504 of Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; the Allegheny County MBE/WBE Program enacted July 1981. which sets forth goals of 13 percent Minority and 2 percent Female Business Enterprise; and the Allegheny County Ordinance #6867-12, setting forth goals of S percent Veteran-Owned Small Businesses. If there are additional questions, please contact Diana McAllister, Associate Head of School for Finance and Operations at St. Edmund’s Academy via email at dianamcallister@stedmunds.net using the project name as the subject line.
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER BEAVER, PENNSYLVANIA INVITATION TO BID
The HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER will receive sealed bids, in duplicate, until 9:00 AM. (local time) on Thursday, July 31, 2025 at the office of the Housing Authority of the County of Beaver, 300 State Ave, Beaver, Pennsylvania at which time bids will be publicly opened and read aloud for the following: Fire Alarm System Replacement at Francis Farmer Apartments, College Hill Apartments, Monacatootha Apartments, Thomas Bishop Apartments, Joseph Edwards and Gordon Camp Elderly Apartments. A fifteen percent (15 %) bid bond is required for this project. Proposed forms of contract documents, including Plans and Specifications may be obtained from the Housing Authority of the County of Beaver by first mailing $125.00 in the form of a check made payable to the HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER, 300 State Ave, Beaver, PA 15009 for each set of documents so obtained. An additional $15.00 is required if you want it mailed. DEPOSITS ARE NOT REFUNDABLE. Plans and specifications will be available on Thursday, July 3, 2025. Please call to arrange for pick-up. (724) 775-1220 ext 2022. EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY and Section 3 Compliance are required.
A Pre-Bid Conference will be held at 10:00 AM on Thursday, July 17, 2025 at Francis Farmer Apartments, Community Room, 274 Friendship Circle, Beaver, PA 15009.
ADVERTISEMENT FOR REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
NORTH HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT FLEXIBLE BENEFITS PLAN ADMINISTRATION
North Hills School District is requesting proposals for the Administration of its Flexible Spending Plan. The District will receive proposals at the North Hills Administration Building at 135 Sixth Avenue Pittsburgh PA 15229 for the above request until Thursday, July 17, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. e.s.t. Proposals shall be submitted to “Attn. RFPs” in a sealed envelope labeled “Benefits”. The Request for Proposal document appears on the North Hills School District website.
OFFICIAL ADVERTISEMENT THE BOARD OF PUBLIC EDUCATION OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PITTSBURGH
Sealed proposals shall be deposited at the Administration Building, Bellefield Entrance Lobby, 341 South Bellefield Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pa., 15213, on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, until 2:00 P.M., local prevailing time for:
Central Operations Building
Chilled Water Plant Upgrades Mechanical and Electrical Primes
Project Manual and Drawings will be available for purchase on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at Modern Reproductions (412-488-7700) 127 McKean Street, Pittsburgh, Pa., 15219 between 9:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. The cost of the Project Manual Documents is non-refundable. Project details and dates are described in each project manual.
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID
NORTH HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT
TOWEL AND TISSUE SUPPLIES AND DISPENSERS: North Hills School District is requesting bids for Towel and Tissue Supplies and Dispensers. The District will receive bids at the North Hills Administration Building at 135 Sixth Avenue Pittsburgh PA 15229 for the above project until Thursday, July 10, 2025 at 11:00
a.m. e.s.t. Bids shall be submitted to “Attn. Bids” in a sealed envelope labeled “Fencing”. The Bid document appears on the North Hills School District website.
JOB OPPORTUNITIES Help Wanted
The University of Pittsburgh’s Katz Graduate School of Business and College of Business Administration seeks a Clinical Assistant Professor of Finance (non-tenure) to teach and develop undergraduate and graduate level courses in corporate finance and financial management. Apply at https://www.join.pitt.edu, #25002697. Please upload a cover letter, statement of teaching and research interests, curriculum vitae, writing sample, at least three letters of recommendation, and teaching evaluations. The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EEO/AA/M/F/Vets/Disabled.
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. seeks an Associate Product Manager who will partner with our team of product managers to deliver incremental value to elevate our digital and in store customer experiences. Duties include working collaboratively with internal stakeholders and other product managers to inform priorities and to deliver value incrementally. This is a fully remote position, and the employee can work from anywhere in the United States. Apply at https://aeo.jobs with cover letter, resumé and salary requirements.
Caliber Infosolutions, Inc., hdqrtrd in Pittsburgh, PA, seeks Product Specialist for a remote work-fromhome position from anywhere within the Northeastern U.S. for analyzing scientific data processing needs of pharm/biotech clients. Apply at: https://caliberuniversal.com/career/
