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OCTOBER 28-NOVEMBER 3, 2015
by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
SALUTE—Ruff Rider Curtis Harris mimics throttling his motorcycle as he leads the crowd in a salute to his slain friend and fellow rider, Demetrius Broadnax, during his memorial vigil. (Photos by J.L. Martello)
Club seeks answers to unsolved murders by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
Though rain prevented this year’s memorial motorcycle ride from Highland Park, family, friends, police and members of the Ruff Riders motorcycle club still gathered for a vigil to remember Demetrius Broadnax who was fatally shot with his friend, Jasmine Morris, at a local banquet hall two years ago. “It’s been one year, 11 months and 12 days since Demetrius and Jasmine Morris’ unsolved murders.
That’s a joke,” said Broadnax’ mother, Diana. “Police can’t solve crime when the community goes blind.” Broadnax, 27, and Morris, 21 were killed at the Diverse Banquet Club on Kelly Street, Oct. 20, 2013, in a shooting that also left five others wounded. No witnesses have come forward in the two years since. Pittsburgh homicide detective Bobby Shaw said he’s been with this case since it happened. He again asked the community for assistance SEE CLUB A4
STANDING TALL—Demetrius “Little Meech” Broadnax, 10, wearing his own Ruff Riders vest, recites from the Bible during the ceremony remembering his father two years after his murder.
Dixon says McKees Rocks mayor calls public housing residents ‘dirty and nasty’ by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
In a letter to the Allegheny County Bureau of Elections, longtime McKees Rocks councilwoman Wanda Jones Dixon said during a September meeting, Mayor John Muhr proposed moving a polling place from its location in the Hays Manor public housing community to the borough Municipal Building because “the people in Hays Manor are dirty and nasty.”
The move would have affected residents in the borough’s 1st ward, districts 1 and 2. “The current polling place is well lit has plenty of parking and is accessible to all voters. It would truly be a disservice to the community if the polling place was moved because of the racist views of a few,” Dixon wrote in a letter also signed by councilmembers Paul Krisby, Craig Meyers and Dave Rugh. Regardless of Muhr’s remarks, the Elections Division agreed to move the
polling place—but only for half those affected. Dixon said she received a letter dated Oct. 14 saying only voters in Ward 1, District 1 would vote at the municipal building—but that’s wrong. “I just spoke to the man we sent our letter to and he said it should read Ward 1, District 2. In May, it was the first time we’ve voted in Hays Manor in 40 years because they built a nice SEE DIXON A4
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my chest, abdomen and pelvis, then a genetic test to make sure my family isn’t at risk,” she said. “So I’ll do six months of chemotherapy, followed by radiation, and maybe
Leslie Poston has worked at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital for 13 years and makes $13.45 an hour. But, holding a folder about four inches thick with medical bills, she told the Pittsburgh City Council’s Wage Committee during a recent public hearing on the North Side, making ends meet is a struggle, especially when she can’t afford her medical care—which is provided by UPMC. “I keep getting double-billed for co-pays. I pay at the office and then a few weeks later another one comes in the mail,” she said. “And no one seems to be able to explain how that happens.” HEALTHCARE HELL—Newly diagAnd it’s going to get nosed with cancer, Leslie Poston worse—three weeks shows examples of the health insurago, Poston was diag- ance double-billing she already renosed with beast can- ceived from UPMC. (Photos by J.L. cer. Martello) “It didn’t show up when I had a mammogram surgery. That’s three differin January, so the doctors ent oncologists I’ll see with want to get on it quickly. So $40 co-pays each time.” next week I’ll get two more SEE WAGE A4 mammograms, a CT-scan of
Town hall provides insight on police, community relations by Samson X Horne For New Pittsburgh Courier
Homewood residents sat down with police officers and representatives from their neighborhood for a town hall meeting held recently. The two-hour meeting was geared toward improving relations between the Pittsburgh Police force and the community at-large. Organized by state Rep. Ed Gainey in the auditorium at the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh in Homewood, participants were encouraged not to turn
the meeting into a “fingerpointing match,” but rather engage in dialogue aimed at reaching productive change that engages youth. “This is not a night where we’ve come to fight and gripe with one another... We want to start to build some bridges. We need some solutions and some of it comes from the community,” said Gainey. Upon entrance to the auditorium, the 86-member audience was given a pamphlet outlining their rights when interacting with poSEE TOWN A4
Vigil honors DeSean Fountain, demands ‘Victims No More’ by Paige Mitchell For New Pittsburgh Courier
On the afternoon of Sept. 4, DeSean Fountain was walking home from school while wearing his book bag—a great student and athlete full of hopes and dreams—when he was suddenly shot and killed at the age of 14. Out of respect for the Fountain Family, information pertaining to DeSean was withheld. DeSean’s mother, Patricia Fountain, said, she wants nothing more than to make sure DeSean didn’t die
in vain and that people take the darkness of this tragedy and turn it into light for the youth, the families and the communities. “The moment I learned of the tragic murder of DeSean, I knew that Amachi Pittsburgh would do something to support his family and also challenge the community to respond by finding ways to be the change we so desperately need. I reached out to his mom and her strength and resolve really inspired me to reach others through his story,” Anna Hollis of Amachi
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LOSING A CHILD—Mothers who lost their children within 30 feet of each other a few months apart mourn and hug each other to console one another during the vigil. From left: Patti Fountain and Karen Skinner Johnson. (Photo by J.L. Martello)
Pittsburgh said. The celebration of DeSean’s life and declaration of “Victims No More” took place in East Liberty with a prayer vigil and call to action, hosted by Amachi Pittsburgh. Many leaders, friends, family, neighbors, and supporters joined to honor the life of DeSean Fountain, and take a stand to demand a change within the community. Another innocent victim lost, due to the senseless act of violence. For some time now, violence has been actively noted within the African
American community, and this has impacted a movement nationwide. There are steps we can take together to ensure that the thousands of young people like him are, “Victims No More.” Amachi Pittsbugh serves children and families impacted by parental incarceration. “DeSean’s sister was enrolled in Amachi, and because of her involvement, we also matched DeSean at age 6 with a mentor. The last thing we expected was to be attending
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City League Hall of Fame…it’s about time Opinion A6
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This Week In Black History
OCTOBER 28-NOVEMBER 3 , 2015
INTERNATIONAL
REUNITED—In this April 21, 2014 file photo, four female students of the government secondary school Chibok, who were abducted by gunmen and reunited with their families, walk in Chibok, Nigeria. (AP Photo/ Haruna Umar, File)
Nigerian troops, hunters kill 150 Boko Haram extremists
by Ibrahim Abdulaziz Associated Press Writer
YOLA, Nigeria (AP)—Self-defense fighters said Oct. 20 they fought alongside Nigerian soldiers to kill 150 Boko Haram militants and rescue 36 child and women captives of the Islamic uprising in the country’s northeast. Jubilant civilians who participated in the Tuesday night assault said they went to the Madagali and Gwoza areas acting on intelligence that the extremists were planning a large attack. Self-defense fighter Bukar Jimeta said they killed at least 150 militants and recovered guns and explosives used in suicide bombings that have killed hundreds in recent months. Civilian hunter Young Morris said they rescued 36 kidnapped children and women.Nigeria’s military has been promising a final onslaught against the militants whose six-year uprising has
killed 20,000 people. On Oct. 19, they called for insurgents to surrender. Boko Haram denies scores of extremists have turned themselves in. The group is suspected to have killed two soldiers in neighboring Niger on Oct. 20, said Hassam Ardo Ido, secretary-general of the government of Diffa. Jihadists went to the Diffa town barracks at 2 a.m. on Oct. 20 and detonated explosives at the door, killing two soldiers, he said. Diffa is near the border with Nigeria. Boko Haram members have repeatedly struck Diffa over the past year because Niger’s military is among those taking part in a regional effort to defeat the extremists. The group’s members were also suspects in a bombing there that killed seven people earlier this month. Niger is home to more than 138,000 refugees who have fled attacks in Nigeria, the U.N. says.
Police: Boko Haram using iPads, laptops, phones for bombs
(Associated Press write Baba Ahmed in Dakar, Senegal contributed to this report.)
TERRORIST LEADER—In this May 12, 2014 file image from video by Nigeria’s Boko Haram terrorist network shows their leader Abubakar Shekau speaks to the camera. (AP Photo/File)
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LAGOS, Nigeria (AP)— Nigeria’s police chief is warning that Boko Haram extremists are building bombs in iPads and cellphones and leaving them for people to pick up. Inspector Gen. Solomon E. Arase issued the warning while announcing five suspects were arraigned Thursday in Abuja High Court in connection with twin bombings in Nigeria’s capital that killed 15 people on Oct 2. Arase said they were arrested in Abuja with “dangerous bombing tools’’ including high-tech gadgets. He warned Nigerians to avoid temptation and not pick up abandoned iPads, phones or laptops “as terrorists now use these items in manufacturing bombs.’’ Nigeria’s home-grown extremist group Boko Haram is known for using kidnap victims strapped with explosives in suicide bombings that have killed hundreds in recent months, including in neighboring countries.
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Week of October 28-November 3, 2015 October 28 1798—Levi Coffin, who is White, is born in the slave state of North Carolina but becomes a strong opponent of slavery. He and his wife, Catherine, are credited with being among the original founders of the “Underground Railroad”—the system of transports and safe houses that enabled Blacks to escape slavery in the South to freedom in the North. October 29 1929—The Stock Market collapses ushering in the Great Depression bringing about Black unemployment rates ranging from 25 to 40 percent. The effects of the Great Depression would last until the start of World War II which created massive war industry jobs and a second mass migration of Blacks from the South to the industrial North. 1994—Famed dancer Pearl Primus dies. She blended African and Caribbean dance and music with Black American traditions of blues, jazz and the jitterbug to form a new vibrant PEARL PRIMUS dance form. She formed a dance troupe and she personally appeared in such early Broadway hits as “Showboat” and “Emperor Jones.” Primus was known for her amazingly high leaps. In 1991, the first President Bush awarded her the National Medal of Arts. 2009—A report is published suggesting that the old self-hate mantra of “I am Black enough; I don’t need any sunshine” could be shortening the lives of African-Americans. Dr. Jonathan Mansbach’s report found, among other things, that American Blacks are not getting enough sunshine or more specifically, vitamin D—the sunshine vitamin. Mansbach discovered, for example, that an astonishing 90 percent of Black children were vitamin D deficient. Vitamin D deficiency can contribute to various cancers, diabetes and weak bones. October 30 1831—Minister and mystic Nat Turner, leader of the bloodiest slave revolt in U.S. history, is captured in South Hampton County, Va. The uprising NAT TURNER took place Aug. 21 and 22 of the same year and left 55 Whites dead. Turner was hanged and then skinned on Nov. 11. 1954—The U.S. Department of Defense announces the official end of all segregated military regiments in the armed forces. 1966—The Black Panther Party is founded in California by Huey Newton and Bobby Seale. The full name was the Black Panther Party for Self Defense. It was formed in major measure to bring attention to and combat brutality against Blacks by the Los Angeles Police Department. 1974—Muhammad Ali defeats George Foreman for the heavyweight boxing title. The fight took place in Zaire (now the Congo) and was billed as the “Rumble in the Jungle.” 1991—BET Holdings, Inc. sells 4.2 million shares of stock in an initial public offering becoming the first Black company listed on the New York Stock Exchange. Founder Bob Johnson has since sold the company to the MUHAMMAD ALI media giant Viacom. 2002—One of the original founders of modern rap music Jam Master Jay of the group Run-DMC was killed in a shooting at his New York recording studio. He was 37. His group, Run-DMC, was a major force attracting young Whites to rap music. October 31 1517—Revolutionary Christian leader Martin Luther posted his famed 95 Theses on the door of Wittenberg Palace in Germany setting off the Protestant Reformation against the Catholic Church. It is believed the parents of American Civil Rights Movement icon Martin Luther King Jr. named him after Martin Luther. However, King’s original name was “Michael” and was later changed to “Martin.” 1820—(circa) Irish Catholics bring Halloween to America where it first gains popularity among the lower classes and becomes heavily influenced by both American Indian and Black American (slave) superstitions. 1896 (or 1900)—Actress and singer Ethel Waters is born in Chester, Pa. She became one of the nation’s best known jazz and gospel singers. Waters was born to a 12year-old Black girl who had been raped by a White man. November 1 1604—William Shakespeare’s great play “Othello” was first performed at Whitehall Palace in London. It is the earliest known European play with a Black lead character. 1866—America’s first Civil Rights Act is passed over the veto of President Andrew Johnson. In part, it was Johnson’s opposition to such pro-Black legislation that led a group called the “Radical Republicans” to seek his impeachment. Johnson had become president after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln and adopted a wide-range of anti-Black policies. JAM MASTER JAY 1910—Scholar and political activist W.E.B. DuBois published the first issue of the NAACP’s monthly magazine “Crisis.” DuBois would later break with the NAACP charging that its approach to ending discrimination against Black was too “gradualist.” 1945—The first issue of Ebony Magazine was published in Chicago by founder John H. Johnson. Johnson died in September 2005. The magazine and its sister publication, Jet, are now facing financial difficulties and may be purchased by a group of non-Blacks. 1991—Clarence Thomas takes his seat on the United States Supreme Court after a prolonged controversy over his alleged sexual harassment of former co-worker Anita Hill. Thomas would go on to disappoint much of Black America by rendering votes on major issues, which many leading African-American felt were anti-Black. 1999—Chicago Bears running back great Walter Payton dies of cancer at the age of 45. His power and grace on the football field led to his nickname “Sweetness.” November 2 WALTER PAYTON 1889—The last great African king is crowned. Menelik II became “Negusa Nagast” (King of Kings) of Abyssinia (Ethiopia). At that time Abyssinia included not only present day Ethiopia but parts of Kenya, Somalia and the Sudan. European colonialism would weaken and reduce the size of the kingdom. Menelik could trace his heritage back to King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba of the Christian Bible. 1903—Maggie L. Walker opens the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank in Richmond, Va. Walker was one of the most accomplished business women in Black American history having founded a bank, a newspaper, other businesses and a political party known as the Lily Black. Constant refrain in her speeches was “Let us put our money together…and reap the benefits.” 1930—Haile Selassie is crowned emperor of Ethiopia after the death of Ethiopian Empress Zawditu. Tracing his lineage back to the Bible’s King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, some Blacks (most notably the Jamaican Rastafarians) consider him a god. Selassie’s name prior to being crowned emperor was Raz Tafari. 1983—Conservative Republican President Ronald Reagan signs the law that designates the third Monday in January as Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Shortly after the signing he angers some Blacks when in response to a reporter’s question he suggests that King may have been a communist. MAGGIE L. WALKER November 3 1868—John W. Menard is elected to the U.S. Congress and was among the first group of Blacks to take a seat in that body during the Reconstruction period, which followed the Civil War. He defeated a White candidate in Louisiana’s 2nd District. 1983—National Black political leader Jesse Jackson announces the first of his bids for president of the United States. His campaign, at the time, is credited with registering the largest number of Black voters in modern history. 1992—Carol Moseley Braun, D-Ill., becomes the first Black woman elected to the United States Senate.
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Farrakhan outlines next steps after Million Man March Anniversary
ADDRESSING CROWD—The Hon. Min. Louis Farrakhan addresses thousands gathered for the “Justice or Else” rally on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. (Rob Roberts/The Washington Informer)
by James Wright
Special to the NNPA from the AFRO
Minister Louis Farrakhan told a crowd of 200 people that the Nation of Islam will team up with 100 Black Men, an influential national Black male organization, and reinvigorate local organizing committees (LOC) nationwide to move their agenda forward. The minister revealed his detailed plans on Oct. 11 at the Marriott Marquis in Northwest D.C., one day after the 20th Anniversary of the Million Man March on Oct. 10. “I didn’t create the march that happened yesterday, it was God,” Farrakhan said. “It was a peaceful event and there was no drinking, no smoking. It was a glimpse of heaven.” Farrakhan brushed aside comments that the success of the 1995 Million Man March and the Oct. 10 march designates him as the No. 1 Black leader in America. “I am not the great leader,” he said, referring to God. “I am the servant of the great leader.” Farrakhan said that his organization, along with 100 Black Men and the other committees will work to develop nine ministries in the Black community to help improve people’s lives. Those major ministries are in the fields of education, justice, health and human services, agriculture, science and technology, trade and commerce, and arts and culture. Another ministry will focus on the spiritual development of people of color that will be led by ministers called by their deities. Farrakhan talked specifics in his plan, such as the need for Blacks to buy more real estate and take control of the education system in their communities. “You cannot have economic development without ownership of land,” he said. “We should develop a curriculum that we control. Black people are the only race on the face of the earth that is educated by others.” Regarding politics, Farrakhan said that Blacks should be very selective whom they vote for in next year’s presidential election. “If they aren’t talking about justice, you should hold your vote,” he said. “You should not register as a Democrat. You should not register as a Republican, but as an independent.” Farrakhan said that Blacks should leverage their votes for concrete resources and policies that will benefit the race. “As we get stronger, we should form our own political party,” he said.
Farrakhan said that in the past, membership in local organizing committees were mainly members of the Nation of Islam but that won’t be the case going forward. “We need to grow beyond our group,” he said.
“You cannot have economic development without ownership of land. We should develop a curriculum that we control. Black people are the only race on the face of the earth that is educated by others.” MINISTER LOUIS FARRAKHAN “The LOCs should be strengthened with people who have skills in organizing. Those of you skilled in organizing need to teach it and show us how to do it.” Thomas Dortch, chairman emeritus of 100 Black Men, said the organization is happy to work with the Nation of Islam and the committees. “Name me one other person who can send out a call and have 100,000 or one million respond,” Dortch said. Dortch said his organization will recruit 10,000 men and 10,000 women to work on improving the Black community, just what Farrakhan called for in his speech on Oct. 10. One of the criticisms leveled by some Black leaders against the 1995 Million Man March was that there was no legislative program to present to the federal government or the individual states. Both Farrakhan and Dortch said that the 1995 march was about Black men atoning for their sins and taking responsibility for their families and communities. Following the 1995 march, Farrakhan called for an independent Black political movement and a separate, self-sustaining Black economy as well as demanded the U.S. government pay reparations to descendants of slaves. In moving forward with action this go around, Farrakhan gave a free copy of “The National Agenda: Public Policy Issues, Analyses, and Programming Plan of Action for 2000- 2008” to attendees at the postMarch meeting at the Marriott Marquis in Northwest D.C. on Oct. 11. “You have the power to bring about the change you desire,” he told the audience members.
Comey: FBI used aerial surveillance above Ferguson by Eric Tucker WASHINGTON (AP)—FBI Director Jim Comey says the agency used its aircraft above Ferguson, Mo., last year to help local law enforcement keep track of unrest on the ground. Comey did not go into details during a House Homeland Security Committee hearing on Oct. 22, including how long the surveillance lasted.
But in response to questioning, he did say that the FBI uses airplanes during investigations of specific suspects in criminal, terrorism and espionage investigations and to help local police during emergencies. He said the FBI never uses its planes for mass surveillance. When planes are flown above large crowds and gatherings at the request of local law enforcement, the purpose is to look for violence and trouble spots. A plane was also flown above riots in Baltimore last April.
ST. LOUIS (AP)—Police say another church property has been set on fire in the St. Louis area, the seventh such blaze in two weeks. Police Chief Sam Dotson says someone used an accelerant early Oct. 22 to ignite the doors of the rectory at the Downtown Shrine of St. Joseph Church. Authorities say the church was unoccupied and that no one was injured in the blaze.
Dotson has said the churches damaged during the suspicious fires since Oct. 8 vary denominationally and until early Oct. 22 were within a few miles of each other and in largely Black neighborhoods. The latest blaze involved a church outside the radius of the previous fires, and local media outlets say Shrine of St. Joseph Church’s congregation is largely White. Federal investigators are assisting in the probe.
Associated Press Writer
Police: 7th St. Louis church property set on fire in 2 weeks
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Town hall provides police,community insight CONTINUED FROM A1
Wage committee hears from workers REV. RICKY BURGESS City Councilman
CONTINUED FROM A1
Poston is just one of more than 100 people who work in service positions in the city’s healthcare industry who testified before the wage committee during two days of meetings, in Homewood Oct. 22, and on the North Side Oct. 23. “Some of the testimony was heart breaking. You had people working for 35 years making less than $15 an hour. And those who work for healthcare providers and can’t afford to insure their children,” said Councilman Rev. Ricky Burgess, committee chair. “These institutions might as well be plantations. They treat workers as sharecroppers—They have tax-exempt status, but then the taxpayers end up paying for the medical care they don’t cover.”
KENNETH BROWN Hill District resident
REITH THOMAS Oakland resident
The Wage Committee’s goal was empaneled to investigate wages paid to service workers in the city’s largest employment sector and to improve the city’s understanding of current wages on hospital and service workers and their families and determine what minimum wages should be. Others who testified, like Ed Jackson, said though they make decent wages, rising housing costs are eating them up. Kenneth Brown, who after 26 years makes $19.60 as a catering coordinator for Allegheny General Hospital, said he came to support the service workers at UPMC who want the Service Employees International Union to represent them. Workers at AGH recently voted the union in. “There’s men and women
here who devote their lives to caring for others and they can’t make ends meet,” he said. “That’s just wrong.” Burgess said he expects the committee to issue an interim report in a few weeks, and a formal document by the end of the year. Poston said even though she believes her doctors are on top of her case, she is worried. “I’m Scared—not just from the cancer but can I afford it? Will I get the full treatment?” she said. “I’m trying to set everything around my job so I can work just to pay my everyday bills. My doctor’s fussing at me, but I need to be paid. Who’ll take me in if I get kicked out? It’s hard, but I’m going to make it. I’ve been making it.” (Send comments to cmorrow@newpittsburghcourier.com.)
JUAN GLOVER Glenn Hazel resident
lice as well as a note card to write down questions for the panelists for the Q&A format of the meeting. The panelists consisted of Pittsburgh Police Zone 5 (Homewood, Larimer, Friendship, Garfield and Highland Park) Commander Jason Lando; Pittsburgh Bureau Chief of Staff, Commander Eric Holmes; Brandi Fisher, Alliance for Police Accountability; CCAC student Devantae Butler; and Homewood youth football coach Jeremiah Davis. Butler spoke prior to the interactive segment of the meeting and shared with the audience his programming actions on his campus. He is spearheading a “Stop the Violence Week” at CCAC-Boyce to “empower and encourage younger generations,” he said. The college student’s focus was based on fixing issues proactively in-house before seeking outside help. “Change starts within yourself,” Butler said, “everyone is quick to point the finger at someone else. Before we can blame the police, how often did we speak to that person and encourage them to lead them in a positive direction and become a better leader?” Davis, a former studentathlete at the University of Pittsburgh, and who is a native of Toledo, Ohio, said he has been embraced by the Homewood community where he now lives. Davis said that many of the issues facing the Pittsburgh community are similar to the issues experienced by the community in his hometown. “Those issues aren’t just isolated to this area, they affect Black people across different spectrums,” he said. Davis said that the main area police can improve on relationships with the community is by simply being approachable. He gave a personal anecdote on how he and another professional colleague would be ignored by officers after greeting and waving at them. He acknowledges that the younger generation doesn’t want to associate with the police, but attributes that to their lack of interest in being viewed as approachable by youth in the community. He reminded the police, “When you greet people, it doesn’t have to be in a manner that is demean-
ED GAINEY ing or coming down on them as if they’ve done something... We don’t talk, there is no real dialogue.” It’s no secret that communication between law enforcement and the community are tense in a neighborhood scarred from police interactions with youth such as Jordan Miles and Leon Ford. Holmes said that there is an interdependency between the community and the police. “We need your assistance to do our jobs... Because of incidents that have happened here locally within the city limits, outside of the city and across the country recently have strained the relationship (between police and community). It’s a long process to build that trust in both sides.” Fisher said that expecting everyone on both sides to want a healthy relationship isn’t practical. “Focus on those that are willing to work together in an effective way,” she said. Lando said he has already noticed a change in community relations during his eight month stint as commander. The officers have attended events at youth and church groups so that the youth and adults can “see the officers as human beings and not just some-
ERIC HOLMES
one in a uniform,” Lando said. Lando also said that several officers at a time, in “jeans and a T-shirt, no uniforms,” have started meeting with approximately 10 to 12 youth, in an environment comfortable to the youth that allowed the young people a chance to spend time with officers and ask them questions along with enjoying pizza. “We’re hoping that we can change people’s attitudes. Not just the kids, but the officers too.” Fourteen officers from Zone 5 have signed up to participate in the program during their time-off. Lando said that he is optimistic that both groups will see the opportunity as mutually beneficial and that it will subsequently improve community and police relations. “It’s a long road, but we’re doing some really cool stuff,” he assured the audience. Another hot-button topic addressed in the forum was a lack of representation of the community in the police force. Changes have been put into play that show progress has been made in the aspect of creating a more diverse police force for the city. Holmes said that the community can expect African American officers within the Pittsburgh Police Department to receive promotions in the coming weeks. Also looking forward, 10 out of 45 in the new recruiting class are minorities. Lando said that other opportunities have been made possible in part by changes made in final reviews when deciding on hiring. Prior to the decision being made, “the name, the race and the gender of the person have been redacted. The command staff making the final decision does not know if they (the applicant) are male or female, Black or White. We’re going strictly off of what’s based in the file,” Lando said. The forum also brought up the correlation between poverty, drugs and violence within the neighborhood. Community members have made a copious amount of complaints about drug dealers in Homewood and along Frankstown. “It’s very prevalent all through Zone 5, not just Homewood, but every neighborhood we serve. We’re working on it,” Lando said. Davis offered his stance through the lens of economic disparities in the neighborhood.
Club seeks answers to unsolved murders CONTINUED FROM A1
so he can bring those responsible to face justice. “I responded from my house and I’ve been with Diana for the last two years and it’s getting a little frustrating to keep telling her I don’t have anything,” he said. “This young man needs more out of everybody, more out of us and more out of the community. I’m not going anywhere.” Diana Broadnax also called for laws requiring property owners who lease space for parties to have adequate security personnel and functioning cameras to insure the safety of their patrons. After her son’s death, Diana Broadnax said she considered suicide and at times thought she would lose her mind, but faith in God and her grandson keeps her going, “I have to always worry about my grandbaby. I don’t want him growing up to be part of this thing,” she said. “The free pass has stopped. Too many mothers have buried their children. We’ve got to help each other. If I can have
WYNONA HAWKINS HARPER A mother who lost her son to street violence.
DIANE BROADNAX A mother who lost her son to street violence .
the strength, you can. And to these animals—You killed my best friend. You killed me. I’m not afraid of you.” State Rep. Ed Gainey, D-East Liberty, who attended the event, said people are scared to come forward. “The fear is real,” he said. “For community to grow, we have to come out—but we need help from DA, and the police so when people do come forward, they feel safe from retribution. You always want to pray for strength for the families, but I’ve been saying we need a gun taskforce to deal with the way these guns are hitting the street.” The event also included remarks from organizer Valerie Dixon, executive director of the Prevent Another Crime Today alliance, members of the Ruff Riders, and 10-yearold Demetrius “Little Meech” Broadnax, who wore a leather Ruff Riders vest, like his father used to, as he read from Ephesians. The vigil ended with a balloon release. (J.L. Martello contributed to this story.)
Vigil honors DeSean Fountain, demands ‘Victims No More’ Dixon upset with McKees Rocks mayor for statement CONTINUED FROM A1
his funeral 8 years later as a result of a senseless act of violence in his community,” Hollis said. DeSean’s mentor of eight years, Gwyneth Gaul, has established a memorial fund in his name to ensure he is not forgotten and that organizations can do more to help children get the support they desperately need. Donations can be made to DeSean Fountain Memorial Fund. “In honor of DeSean, I have started the DeSean Fountain Memorial Fund, at The Pittsburgh Foundation. It is designed to carry his name forever so that kids now and for future generations will benefit. Donations can be made to the fund. Funds will be used to support mentoring programs like Amachi, great schools like ECS and after school sports programs at Kingsley Center and others, programs that help keep kids safe, help
them fulfill their hopes and dreams. DeSean, you will not be forgotten. My life is richer for having known
you. I will always have you in my heart,” Gaul said. These types of events provide an opportunity for fam-
IN HONOR OF DeSEAN—The shirt worn by many at the vigil. (Photos by J.L. Martello)
ily and community members to mourn together and support each other, to reclaim the space where a heinous crime was committed, and to challenge those most deeply impacted to turn their mourning into motivation to incite change. In this case it was important to bring honor to the life of a young man who was making all the right choices, working hard, and making his own plans for a bright future. DeSean was supposed to make it,” Hollis said. When will it end? How many DeSeans will it take? When is enough, enough? Attendees walked away knowing that together, we can make a difference. We do not have to accept things as they are, we have the collective power to change the conditions that are plaguing our communities. Amachi Pittsburgh offered opportunities to community members to do just that.
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new community center,” she said. “There is no reason to do this other than the mayor being a known racist. A lot of African Americans don’t want to go to the borough building because we’ve had problems with the police. I think he’s trying to stop the Black vote, but I have no idea why.” Muhr said Dixon has been calling him a racist for years, but he didn’t say that. “I said I got complaints after the May primary from people who felt intimidated by walking through there to vote,” he said. “That was their comments. We used to have all five wards voting at the old Booster Hall, but they sold the building. Never had
any complaints then and it was five times further away from Hays than the borough building.” The compromise plan will have Hays Manor residents voting there, and the residents of Ward 1, District 2 voting at the borough building—the White “oldtimers,” as Muhr described them. Elections Bureau Director Mark Wolosik said his department didn’t make things better by sending out the wrong info in the letter. “I don’t know if 1,2 is older or Whiter,” he said. “I know there is no publicly accessible building there like there is in 1,1 and I know registered voters. In 1,1 there are 236, in 1,2 there are 563.” (Send comments to cmorrow@newpittsburhcourier.com.)
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OCTOBER 28-NOVEMBER 3, 2015
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STANDING FIRM honors those standing against domestic violence by Ashley Johnson Courier Staff Writer
October is national domestic violence awareness month; a time that aides in bringing awareness to an issue that is often not talked about and where many of its victims suffer in silence. While many think of domestic violence, or partner violence, as it is also referred to, as an issue that only effects one at home, behind closed doors, it goes way beyond that—it reaches one’s workplace. STANDING FIRM: The Business Case to End Partner Violence, is making strides in its efforts to help companies not only take a “stand” by bringing awareness to the issue, but also addressing it. On Oct. 22, approximately 375 individuals joined the organization in its celebration of companies and individuals who have gone above and beyond, and made it their responsibility to address domestic at their workplace at the 3rd annual Stand Up for STANDING FIRM Awards Luncheon held at the Omni William Penn in downtown Pittsburgh. “We have been getting such positive comments. We were thrilled with the outcome of the luncheon. We had so many attendees, we thought there was so much energy in the room and we felt that all of the speakers spoke very well to the issue of why employers should pay attention to partner violence,” said Susan Nitzberg, associate director of Outreach for STANDING FIRM. “We believe everybody has a role to play in ending this societal issue. We cannot afford to be bystanders anymore, whether individually or organizationally. Equally we think it’s the right thing to do.” Since it began in 2009, STANDING FIRM’s mis-
TAMIKO STANLEY sion has been to use best practices training and principles to alert employers to the financial, safety and human costs of partner violence on the workplace and workforce, along with equipping them with the tools for taking an effective action through their on-site and webbased training, and consultation services. The nonprofit organization encourages employers to recognize the affects partner violence has on the company’s bottom line; respond effectively by taking action; and refer victims as well as perpetrators to the community resources available to help them. Patricia Cluss, PhD, director of STANDING FIRM said during her luncheon remarks, “Partner Violence is everybody’s business. It’s his business, it’s her business, it’s my business and, as I’m sure you all know, it’s your business too. Partner violence isn’t something that stays at home and happens in families, it comes to work—whether it’s the victim who misses work because of medical appointments or an abuser who is just too distracted from a fight he had with his girlfriend the night before to perform his job well and
PATRICIA CLUSS STANDING FIRM director
JOSHUA SAFRAN Keynote speaker
safely.” According to the organization’s information, partner violence costs businesses $6 billion in annual health-related expenses, more that $700 million in lost productivity and is responsible for 25 percent of workplace violence incidents. Today, according to Cluss, STANDING FIRM has approximately 300 employer members, representing about 400,000 employees in the southwestern Pennsylvania region. “We lead from a business standpoint and (believe) that domestic violence can actually be ended best that
way; because the way to impact people’s lives is through where they spend 80 percent of their day, which is at work,” said Tamiko Stanley, a STANDING FIRM board member and luncheon host committee member. “We feel if they attach it to work policies, even into work evaluations, that people will actually see how important it is… Most companies want to do the right thing it’s just a lot of them lack the ability, the knowledge and the resources to do it, so STANDING FIRM helps with all of that.” The luncheon, which was
emceed by Bill Flanagan, chief corporate relations officer of the Allegheny Conference on Community Development, honored the Pittsburgh Technology Council with the Employer Award and Kristy Trautmann, executive directors of the FISA Foundation with the Champion Award for their works in addressing the issue. Along with the awards, the highlight of the afternoon was the keynote address by attorney and advocate for victims of domestic violence, Joshua Safran. He is also the author of “FREE SPIRIT: Growing Up On the Road and Off the Grid,” a memoir detailing his life as a child of a domestic violence victim and how he and his mother became survivors. During his speech, Safran spoke of his experiences of watching his mother being abused by his stepfather, how they got away, and how they mended their relationship years later. He also touched on the importance of employers having a domestic violence policy, implementing it correctly and training its employees, but most importantly, having an environment where people feel free to
Community Calendar Hallelujah Night OCT. 29—Multiplistic Services will host a Hallelujah Night from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh’s Northview Heights Family Support Center, 101 Hazlett St., North Side. This event is to show children ages 3-10 that they can have fun and dress in costumes that aren’t scary, but fun and purposeful. There will be treats and, weather permitting, a walk around displaying their costumes. For more information, call Diane Neely Bates at 412-5513890.
Legal Excellence Dinner OCT. 30—Classic Events! Will host its Salute to Legal Excellence Dinner at 6 p.m. at the DoubleTree Hotel in Monroeville, 101 Mall Blvd., Monroeville. This event is to honor those who give their very best in the legal community. Senator Jay Costa will be the master of ceremonies. For more information, call 412-723-2414 or email classicevents@gmail.com.
Scholarship Application NOV. 3—Applications are due for the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation’s College Scholarship Program. Students selected as Cooke Scholars will be awarded as much as $40,000 each year for four years toward tuition, living expenses, books and other required fees. Scholarships are available to high-achieving, low-income high school seniors to attend the nation’s best four-year colleges and universities. For more information, visit www.jkcf.org/scholarships/c ollege-scholarship-program.
Application Deadline NOV. 4—Applications are due for the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh’s Black Female Leadership Development Institute. The program will help African American girls ages 13-17 gain exposure to different careers,
health and wellness awareness, the ability to speak up and out, a positive selfimage and more. For more information, call Teanna Medina at 412-498-6449 or email tmedina@ulpgh.com.
OASIS Tutor Training NOV. 6—OASIS will host its Intergenerational Tutor Training from 10:30 a.m.3:30 p.m. at the Chamber of Commerce Building, Suite 525, 411 Seventh Ave., Downtown. Free training will be given to mature adults who are 50 years old or more and would like to commit to tutoring youth for one-hour, per week. All materials, books and supplies will be provided. There will be another training on Nov. 13. Registration is required. For more information, call John Spehar at 412-2322021 or email jdspehar@oasis.net.
Meet the Beat Cop NOV. 7—Peace Pittsburgh will host the Meet the Beat Cop Meeting from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. at Living Word Ministry, 717 Ridge Ave., North Side. There will be a discussion on police and community relations to prevent and solve violent crimes. For more information, call Rev. Charles Ragin at 412-8187206.
Human Rights Dinner NOV. 7—The East Boro NAACP will host its Human Rights Dinner and Excellence in Business Awards Ceremony from 5-9 p.m. at the Rankin Christian Center, 230 3rd St., Rankin. The mistress of ceremonies will be Diane Daniels of DID Associates. For more information, call Lori Rue at 412256-8237 or email eastboronaacp15104@gmail.com. (To have items listed on Community Calendar, send information at least two weeks in advance to: 315 E. Carson St., Pittsburgh, PA 15219; Fax: 412-481-1360 or email: newsroom@newpittsburghcourier.com.)
THE PACKED BALLROOM OF THE OMNI WILLIAM PENN HOTEL.
talk about the subject. His discussion was followed by a Question & Answer session. Deeming the luncheon a success, Stanley said the organization is now focused on building its corporate partnerships, product development to become a self sustaining organization that does not have to rely on “the graciousness of grantors” as well as looking at what can be done from a proactive standpoint, to ensure that domestic violence doesn’t affect generations ahead. Morgan O’Brien, CEO of Peoples Gas, a corporate sponsor, as well as chairman of the Allegheny Conference on Community Development and event co-chair, said, “As community leaders, as business leaders and as people who live in the community, we all have a responsibility of not only recognizing this is real, but also engaging and stopping it.” Major sponsors of the event were UPMC Health Plan, FedEx Ground, the Pittsburgh Pirates, The Heinz Endowments and PittOhio, as well as a host of others. (For more information on STANDING FIRM and its services, visit www.standingfirmswpa.org.)
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OCTOBER 28-NOVEMBER 3, 2015
City League Hall of Fame…it’s about time
Editorial
Municipal Election endorsements Why should we vote? The general election is coming up Nov. 3 and many of us are asking why should we vote? Yes…most of the races were resolved in the Primary Election, but it’s still important for us to come and vote. One reason we vote is to help keep good people in office, and the other reason is to let the people we vote for know that not only do we care but if they don’t fulfill their promises we will be back to vote them out. One very important vote is the Retention Question of Judge Dwayne Woodruff as Judge of the Court of Common Please Family Division. Most of us don’t know a whole lot about the judges but we do know that Judge Dwayne Woodruff is facing retention vote. Judge Woodruff has spent his entire time as a judge fighting to keep Blacks out of the criminal court system as well as various programs to help those in the system to not return as adults. He and his wife Joy are a part of one of the most successful mentoring programs in western Pennsylvania. It would be a shame if he’s not retained because we didn’t show up to vote. David Wecht is running for Pa. Supreme Court. He has been a friend to the Black community for years, and Lord knows we need all the friends we can get in the court system, and the Supreme Court is the highest in Pa. Hugh Fitzpatrick McGough is running for Judge of the Court of Common Pleas. We supported him in the Primary and still support him. Reverend Ricky Burgess is running unopposed for City Council, but we still need to show up to let him know that we appreciate all his hard work, and what he has accomplished thus far in working toward stopping the decay in his district and reviving that district. Regina Holley, school board District 2 is running unopposed, but we need to show her our support for the work she has done over the past few years. Mark Brentley has sat on the School Board District 8 for the past 16 years, but he has chosen to retire. Fighting for his seat are: Kevin Carter, Democrat, and Rosemary Moriarty, a retired educator with more than 35 years experience is running on the Republican ticket. Carter won the Primary but did not respond to the League of Women Voters Guide. Also stepping down from public life is Bill Robinson after more than 40 years. Replacing him will be DeWitt Walton as County Councilman in District 10. Rich Fitzgerald is expected to easily defeat Todd Elliott Koger for Allegheny County Chief Executive. Fitzgerald has done an excellent job in making sure Blacks are on boards and positions throughout his administration and has been very open to the Courier and very visible to and in the Black community. He has earned our vote. Chelsa Wagner for Allegheny County Controller, we supported her in the primaries, and we still support her. It doesn’t matter what party you belong to, the Vote is vital to all but especially to Blacks because we had been deprived of it for so long. We must let each and every candidate know, that opposed or not, we will be watching them and holding them accountable for their actions while in office. And if we don’t approve, we will have no problem voting them out.
Letters to the editor for publication The New Pittsburgh Courier welcomes all responsible viewpoints for publication. All letters should be typewritten and contain writer’s address and phone number for verification. All letters will be edited for clarity and length. Address all letters to: Letters to the Editor New Pittsburgh Courier 315 East Carson Street Pittsburgh, Pa. 15219 You may fax your letter to 412-481-1360, or via email to letters@newpittsburghcourier.com.
Pittsburgh Courier NEW
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John H. Sengstacke Editor & Publisher Emeritus (1912-1997)
Way back in the early 1970s when I first started writing sports for the Courier if I didn’t get anything else from previous sports writers, Bill Nunn Jr., Jess Peters and Ben Wilson, it was City League, City League, City League over and over. Meaning that in our effort to cover community news the City League was an extension of the Black community in high school sports. The daily papers were going to cover the Steelers, Pirates, Pitt, Duquesne, Point Park and the WPIAL but we must own City League play. That is why I commend Bill Neal and others for their efforts in establishing a City League Hall of Fame to honor the greatest athletes in Pittsburgh history. I am shocked and surprised that this had not been done before. The City League has been reduced to just six high schools with the drop of population that has led to a drop in talent. When I came to the city there were 12 high schools: Allderdice, Allegheny, Carrick, Fifth Avenue, Perry, Oliver, Langley, South Hills, South, Schenley, Peabody, and Westinghouse. Back then Westinghouse and Perry were the football power houses and Schenley and Fifth Avenue were the basketball powers, but every team was loaded with talent and every part of the city was proud of their teams. On the North Side it was Oliver, Perry and Allegheny, on the South Side it was South, Carrick and South Hill. In the East it was Peabody, Westinghouse, and Allderdice. Schenley representing the Hill District and Oakland, and Langley the West End. This was before schools were split up into magnets to specialize in certain academic categories. There were great players at all schools in all sports but when I hit town basketball was at its peak and topped all sports. At the time Fifth Avenue and Schenley were not only battling for City League championships but everyone expected one of the two was going to take the state. Fifth Avenue had three sophomores
Ulish Carter
Just Sayin’
whatever was needed to win. Rebound, play defense, score whatever. His strength was defense. Also Warnie at 5.6 was overlooked. When people start talking about great point guards they don’t include him. Yet I say he was as good as any. No he didn’t score a lot of points but he was on the team with Bill Clark, Sam Clancy, and David Kennedy and two other talented players who I’ve forgotten their first names Peoples, and Whitney. So he didn’t need to score, but when they needed offense he could give it either outside or inside. There was a reason this Fifth Avenue team was probably the winingest team in city league history. Maybe the Maurice Lucas, Ricky Coleman, Jeep Kelly team? It’s a shame that there isn’t someplace designated for the awards each school has won. Especially the schools that have been closed. And a wall of fame in which pictures of each person selected to the Hall of Fame. But that would take money and that’s something that City Leaguers apparently don’t have. Hopefully some foundation, individual or corporation will step up. The turnout for the 22 players this year and the 20 plus players last year were very impressive. And according to Bill Neal all the players were extremely happy to finally be recognized for their greatness and travelled from all over the country to attend the event. Oh before I forget. Bill Nunn Jr. needs to be on this team as well. He was one of the greatest basketball players ever in the city. He was recruited by the Harlem Globetrotters, which was the only team accepting Blacks at that time. As Nunn put it, they allowed two Blacks to start in the city back then but Westinghouse broke the mold with three. Hopefully as people move back into the city and into the Public Schools, the City League will live on instead of becoming a part of the WPIAL as it has been rumored.
teamed with a junior, and Schenley was loaded with seniors, with one of the most exciting juniors since Jeep Kelly. Those sophomores for Fifth Avenue were Sam Clancy, David Kennedy and Warnie Macklin, with junior Bill Clark, who I still believe was one of the greatest players to ever put on a City League uniform. For Schenley seniors Kelvin Smith and Wayne Williams were the leaders but Jeep Kelly’s little brother Sonny Lewis was one of the most exciting players western Pennsylvania had ever seen. Well Fifth Avenue beat Schenley to win the City League title but lost in the PIAA semi-finals to Schenley and the Spartans went on to beat the best from the East for the Pennsylvania State championship. Fifth Avenue won it all the following year, with Clark, Clancy, Macklin, and Kennedy. These two teams were coached by two men that should be Hall of Famers as well. George Cupples of Fifth Avenue who has a football field named after him and Spencer Watkins, who should have something named after him. During that era there was one player who stood out, he was like a man among boys. His team couldn’t beat Schenley or Fifth Avenue because he and one other player was all they had, but he needs to be among the Hall of Famers. His name is Melvin Bennett, he played one season for Pitt before being going into the ABA with the big, big money they were throwing around back then. Also doing that era, Wayne Williams for Schenley was a great player. He (Ulish Carter is the managing editor of the wasn’t flashy like Lewis but he did New Pittsburgh Courier.)
Questions every presidential candidate must answer (NNPA)—Bye, bye Biden. The VicePresident who might have given the Honorable Hillary Clinton a run for her money has concluded that the timing is not right for him. Clinton needs someone to rattle her cage, to push her to be more focused in the general election. Now, Senator Bernie Sanders will push her to the left. Biden may have pushed her back to center, enhancing her electability. It doesn’t matter now. The late Congressman William Clay, D-Mo. often said that Black folks should have “no permanent friends, no permanent enemies, only permanent issues.” How hard will African Americans push candidates for President in 2016, whether they are African American or White, Democratic or Republican, legacy candidates (Bush, Clinton), or outsiders? We should directly challenge these candidates on race matters, and push it as aggressively as we can. Hats off to the #BlackLivesMatter movement for doing exactly that—pushing until our issues garnered recognition among Democrats. Republicans were not asked, nor did they volunteer, their perspective on race matters. If I were questioning these candidates on race matters, here’s what I’d ask about their views: 1. What do you think about race relations in our nation? If you think they are broken, how would you fix them? If you think everything is fine, how do you account for the differentials we can measure in terms of income, employment and educational attainment? 2. Do you think that race matters? How? Do you think that the Presidential bully pulpit is an appropriate platform from which to raise this issues? Assuming that you are inaugurated in January 2016, what would be your first speech on race, and whom would
Julianne Malveaux
Commentary
clearly biased that half of prison populations are African American (yet only 13 percent of the population)? 8. African Americans disproportionately depend on Social Security, mainly because as few as a third have company provided pensions. Calls for Social Security reform have included proposals to cut benefits, raise the retirement age, or both. What is your position on Social Security changes? How do you think African Americans are affected by these changes? What will you do to mitigate the disproportionate impact of social security changes on African Americans? 9. Who are the African Americans on your campaign team? What are their roles? Will you contract with African American entrepreneurs to do your printing, or media buys and to provide other services? Do you have a goal for what percentage of your campaign budget will be awarded to African American businesses? 10. Do you support the Affordable Care Act, which increases health insurance availability for African American, as well as all Americans? If you do not support the Affordable Care Act, how will you improve health access? Historically, African Americans heavily support Democrats, and from what I see in the Republican field, we should continue to do so. However, Democratic candidates should not take the African American community for granted and those Democrats in the race should be willing to answer these questions. Hilary Clinton enjoys significant support among African Americans. Our support should not excuse her from asking questions about her support of African Americans. If we don’t ask her these questions, we have no right to ask them of others.
you offer it to? 3. Do you believe in targeted programs? In other words since African Americans were disproportionately hit by the Great Recession, should this community get disproportionate assistance in recovery funding. How would you manage this? 4. How do you define affirmative action? Do you agree with its premise and support its implementation? 5. The African American unemployment rate has been twice that of Whites for five decades. Do you feel any obligation to close the gap? How would you approach that? Too many have accepted this employment gap as historic. Should the African American community accept this as a permanent gap? 6. How would you deal with some of the educational challenges in the African American community, from differences in high school graduation rates, to differences in college attendance? Would you increase the Pell Grant, and where would the money come from? How strongly will you support HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities), and can these institutions expect more support from your administration? 7. The criminal justice system seems biased against African Americans, and the recent spate of the killings of Black men at the hands of White offi(Julianne Malveaux is an author and cers magnify this. What are your plans to reform a system that is so economist based in Washington, D.C.)
Separate and impoverished by Jesse L. Jackson Sr. (GEORGE CURRY MEDIA)—Sen. Bernie Sanders, the Democratic candidate for president, shocked people when he noted that 51 percent of AfricanAmericans aged 17 through 20 who have graduated high school or dropped out of high school are unemployed. PolitiFact.com confirmed the statement as “mostly true,” suggesting that the numbers might even be worse than Sanders suggested. This level of unemployment is a death sentence for a generation - representing for too many, the dying of hope, potential and even, in an age of mass incarceration, freedom. The figure is shocking, but the reality cannot be denied. For all the progress we have made on race in this country, there is still a stark difference between Black and White poverty. As Emily Badger reports in the Washington Post, “The poverty that poor AfricanAmericans experience is often different from the poverty of poor whites.” A poor Black family is much more likely to live in an impoverished neighborhood. The concentrated poverty, as Badger writes, “extends
out the door of a family’s home and occupies the entire neighborhood around it, touching the streets, the schools, the grocery stores.” A new report on the “Architecture of Segregation” by Paul Jargowsky for the New Century Foundation details the stark differences that exist in cities across the country. In metropolitan Chicago, for example, more than one in three poor African-Americans live in what are called high-poverty census tracts (neighborhoods where the poverty rate is above 40 percent). That is 10 times the rate for poor Whites. And it has gotten worse in cities across the country over the course of this century. We know the effects of separate and impoverished. Infants suffer bad nutrition, grow up surrounded by lead paint. Children navigate mean streets to go to impoverished schools. They lack after-school and summer programs. Families break apart. Guns and drugs come in; jobs go out. There’s no affordable transportation to get to where the jobs are. Houses are abandoned. Hospitals close. Decent grocery stores are nowhere to be found. As Jargowsky says, this isn’t really an accident. It is the product of sys-
temic discrimination, of zoning laws that shield wealthy areas from the poor, of public housing that is concentrated in a few neighborhoods. Isolation in poor neighborhoods is an imposition, not a choice. This could be different. In London, for example, every region must have some social housing for poor and workingclass people. Imagine if every suburb were required to provide a proportionate amount of housing for the poor and the lower-wage workers. Suddenly the poor would have access to better schools, better health care, safer streets, more role models and healthier (and less expensive) food stores. This takes a plan, a plan that will meet great resistance. Dozens of Chicago’s wealthy suburbs, Badger notes, have ignored state deadlines to produce affordable housing plans. Poor African Americans are penned up, in poor neighborhoods and too often literally in jails and prisons. This is an imposition, not a fate, a policy choice that is morally indefensible and socially explosive. (Jesse L. Jackson Sr. is founder and president of the Chicago-based Rainbow PUSH Coalition. You can keep up with his work at www.rainbowpush.org.)
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An 11-hour Infomercial for Hillary Clinton (GEORGE CURRY MEDIA)—House Republicans’ Benghazi Hearing last week was designed to further lower Hillary Clinton’s poll numbers in her quest to become president. But the Republican strategy backfired as the televised hearing became an 11-hour infomercial for Hillary Clinton. Instead of a weakened opponent, Clinton emerged stronger than ever in the wake of Vice President Joe Biden announcing he will not make a third run for the White House. Time after time, she demonstrated her mastery of foreign policy, proved that she could remain calm under constant badgering and inane questioning by Republicans on the panel. Clinton couldn’t have created a more effective TV campaign commercial. I watched all of the charade except for a 30-minute break I took to watch national news. By the time the hearing wrapped up, the only thing new we had learned was that there are no limits on how low Republicans will sink to score political points — at a cost of nearly $5 million and counting. Instead of seeking answers to questions, more often than not, the GOP panel members would tell us what they thought the former Secretary of State was thinking at the time or shared their far-fetched “theory” about what was transpiring at the time. Rep. Elijah Cummings, D-Md., the ranking member of the panel, said the special committee had one goal—to damage the presidential candidacy of former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. “As we all know, Representative Kevin McCarthy, Speaker Boehner’s second in command and the chairman’s close friend, admitted that they established the select committee to drive down Secretary Clinton’s poll numbers. Democrats didn’t say that. The second in command in the House said that, a Republican,” Cummings stated. “Republican Congressman Richard Hanna said the Select Committee was, quote, ‘designed—designed to go after Secretary Clinton.’ And one of the
George E. Curry
Commentary chairman’s own, hand-picked investigators, a selfproclaimed conservative Republican, charged that he was fired in part for not going along with these plans to, quote, ‘hyper-focus on Hillary Clinton.’” GOP panel members focused on trying to discredit Clinton. Rep. Jim Jordan, a Republican from Ohio, offered: “Here’s what I think’s going on...” Peter Roskam, a Republican from Illinois, said: “...And let me tell you a little bit of a theory that I’ve developed from my reading and research and listening today...” Perhaps they relied so heavily on theory and their personal opinion because there were no new facts to add. In fact, they went over many of the same questions Clinton had answered when she testified before the committee earlier. “Of the 316 total questions, according to our count Republican members of the committee asked 249,” Media Matters, the media watchdog group, found. “About 75 of their questions—30 percent—involved information that was already specifically discussed during Clinton’s first day of hearings in front of Congress in January 2013. “Those hearings (she appeared twice on the same day before both the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and the House Foreign Affairs Committee) only lasted a total of about five hours and 35 minutes, but Clinton and her questioners managed to provide a plethora of information that yesterday’s Select Committee was apparently unaware existed.” It continued, “For instance, Clinton had already answered questions about who handled requests for increased security at Benghazi prior to the 2012 attacks. She had already answered questions about why, in the days following the attacks, she had—like the intelligence community and eyewitnesses on the ground— discussed the anti-Muslim video that sparked worldwide protests and which the alleged terrorists themselves cited as a motivation. And she had already explained that the compound in Benghazi was a ‘temporary’ facility, and thus not under the normal regulations for more typical consulates and embassies.” When Republicans callously tried to portray Clinton as uncaring after the loss of four Americans, she responded with passion and sensitivity. She said at one point, “I would imagine I’ve thought more about what happened than all of you put together. I’ve lost more sleep than all of you put together.” The hearing was roundly denounced by the media as fruitless. The New York Times observed, “The pointless grilling of Mrs. Clinton, who fielded a barrage of questions that have long been answered and settled, served only to embarrass the Republican lawmakers who have spent millions of dollars on a political crusade.” A Washington Post editorial said, “The House Select Committee on Benghazi further discredited itself on Thursday as its Republican members attempted to fuel largely insubstantial suspicions about Hillary Clinton’s role in the 2012 Benghazi attacks. Grilling Ms. Clinton all day, they elicited little new information and offered little hope that their inquiry would find anything significant that seven previous investigations didn’t.” Cummings said, “When we first joined the Select Committee, I asked my staff to put together a complete report and database setting forth the questions that have been asked about the attacks and all of the answers that were provided in the eight previous investigations...The problem is that rather than accepting these facts, Republicans continue to spin new conspiracy theories that are just as outlandish and inaccurate.” (George E. Curry is President and CEO of George Curry Media, LLC. He is the former editor-in-chief of Emerge magazine and the NNPA. He is a keynote speaker, moderator, and media coach. Curry can be reached through his Web site, georgecurry.com.)
FORUM
Are all the Black giants deceased? My generaReid, 4. tion was Louis ‘Hop’ Kendrick Bernard blessed to Jones, 5. Rev. have lived Thomas E. during a peSmith. riod of time All five of when we these local were able to giants were witness also liberaBlack giants tors of Black in action. We people. How? are not just referring to physical They opened our minds and giants, but giants who made a dif- helped us understand that the ference locally, nationally and in- Emancipation Proclamation ternationally. These giants were signed by President Lincoln in great men that we were able to ob- 1863 did not free the Black citiserve not only in the movies and zens. They helped us as a people television, but the streets of Amer- understand that we were too freica. Who were these giants? Ma- quently living “Up South”, and hatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, that change would only occur Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Mal- when we stood up straight so no colm X, Thurgood Marshall and one could ride our backs. These gimany others. All of the above gi- ants challenged the system at all ants are deceased, but they left levels and exposed the political their mark on history. The giants system for excluding Blacks. They were liberators, emancipators and filed lawsuits, focused on secmartyrs who were totally pre- ondary education, founded the pared to forfeit their lives. first Black foundation and sought The holiday season is approach- to improve the quality of life in ing and we will be laying away Haiti and Cuba. and shopping for whomever. Let’s We as Black men are not born gibuy books for our families, friends, ants, but there are steps that associates and even ourselves, so must be taken. You are born a boy, we can become enlightened about youngster, young male, adult and the imprint these giants had on hopefully man. What do we see the world. when we look in the mirror? Are In local communities across the you satisfied, if not what do you nation there were and are giants. intend to do about it? The great In Pittsburgh I have been fortu- Frederick Douglass said, “Our opnate to have known several Black pressors will heap indignities and men who fit the category of giants. abuses upon us, until we stop it.” (Louis “Hop” Kendrick is a weekly conIn this week’s column I will only list five. 1. Mal Goode, 2. Attorney tributor to the Forum page.) Byrd R. Brown, 3. Dr. Herman
To Tell The Truth
Redefining disenfranchisement In 2012 the the failure to NAACP ap- J. Pharoah Doss pay the poll peared betax. fore the In 1890 United Nasouthern tions Human states began Rights Counliteracy tests cil to prove to disenfranvoter identichise voters, fication laws 40-60 perenacted by cent of some U.S. states violated the Blacks were illiterate compared to human rights of minorities by dis- 8-18 percent of Whites. enfranchising voters. But Saudi And Alabama’s constitution of Arabia sat on the human rights 1901 contained multiple measures council who didn’t allow women to to disenfranchise, but Jackson vote. I wondered if the Saudis Giles, a Black janitor, managed to thought the NAACP was redefining qualify to vote despite the constitudisenfranchisement. tional restrictions. Giles brought a Recently Alabama state officials suit against Alabama on behalf of announced it was closing thirty-one himself and 75,000 other qualified satellite driver license offices due to Blacks who had been arbitrarily debudget cuts. The state officials nied the right to register. But in closed these specific offices because Giles v. Harris the Supreme Court “the combined effort of the 31 part- rejected Giles’s claim. Justice time satellite locations … ac- Oliver Wendell Holmes stated: If counted for less than five percent of the Alabama constitution violated all the Alabama driver license the fifteenth amendment’s guarantransactions.” tee against voting discrimination, This fiscal decision was criticized then it [Alabama’s constitution] is by civil rights advocates because in void and Giles can not be legally 2011 the state of Alabama required registered to vote. voters to have photo IDs as of 2014. This was the past Hillary Clinton (The state’s reason for the require- suggested is comparable to current ment was to prevent voter fraud budget cuts in Alabama. This also and the stated issued free voter ID implies that the plight of Jordon cards.) Miles (who had to prove he could And the office closings took place read and pay a poll tax) is synonyin rural predominately Black areas. mous with a person that doesn’t This prompted one columnist to feel like getting a photo ID. point out, “According to the AlThere seems to be a disparate atabama secretary of state, about tempt to redefine disenfranchise500,000 state residents in 2014 ment to mean: Voter inconvenience. didn’t have photo IDs (That’s 20 The NAACP promoted voter inconpercent of those registered to vote.) venience at the United Nations The law disproportionately affects (who has no legal authority in the poor people who find it the most dif- United States) to justify the group’s ficult to get a photo ID and, in par- existence in this millennium, and ticular African Americans, who Hillary Clinton promoted voter invoted in fewer numbers in 2014 in convenience to prove Jim Crow still places where voter ID laws went exists and democratic identity poliinto effect.” (This ignores the fact tics matters. (Also proving she’s a that residents were informed two twentieth century politician.) years in advance of the requireThe governor of Alabama stated, ment and that non-presidential “To suggest the closure of the elections always have low voter driver’s license offices is a racial turn out rates.) issue is simply not true, and to sugAnd the closing prompted Demo- gest otherwise should be considcratic presidential front runner ered an effort to promote a political Hillary Clinton to proclaim the ac- agenda.” tion of the Republican ran state After weeks of criticism the goverwas “a blast from the Jim Crow nor decided to leave the facilities past.” open once a month to serve resiReally? dents. The governor realized In 1871 Georgia started the poll Hillary Clinton’s statement wasn’t tax; it was made cumulative in referring to anything in the past. 1877 (requiring citizens to pay all He interpreted her statement to back tax before being permitted to mean, “Jim Crow now! Jim Crow vote). By 1904 every former con- tomorrow! Jim Crow forever!” (J. Pharoah Doss is a contributor to the federate state had a poll tax. Its sole purpose was to disenfranchise. New Pittsburgh Courier. He blogs at No state prosecuted any person for jpharoahdoss@blogspot.com)
Commentary
Letters to the editor for publication The New Pittsburgh Courier welcomes all responsible viewpoints for publication. All letters should be typewritten and contain writer’s address and phone number for verification. All letters will be edited for clarity and length. Address all letters to: Letters to the Editor New Pittsburgh Courier, 315 East Carson Street Pittsburgh, Pa. 15219 You may fax your letter to 412-481-1360, or via e-mail to letters@newpittsburghcourier.com.
OCTOBER 28-NOVEMBER 3, 2015
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Marian Wright Edelman
Child Watch
When congressional bipartisanship worked (GEORGE CURRY MEDIA)—Amidst the shameful dysfunctional legislative gridlock of the U.S. House of Representatives, it was a great joy last week to celebrate a time and a leader—former Minnesota Senator and Vice President Walter Mondale—when bipartisanship, common sense and a national moral commitment to children and families almost became the law of the land for young children. What a different country we would be today had millions of children received the carefully conceived high-quality early childhood and family support services in the bipartisan Comprehensive Child Development Act of 1971 which President Nixon vetoed on the eve of his trip to China, capitulating to right wing ideologues such as Phyllis Schlafly and Patrick Buchanan. In addition to mischaracterizations of the legislation’s provisions, President Nixon attempted to portray day care and other child care services outside the home as a radical new departure, ignoring the millions of mothers already in the workforce. The Act was a model of what bipartisan support can look like. It passed December 2, 1971 by a vote of 63 yeas to 17 nays in the United States Senate with 39 Democrats and 24 Republicans. Republican Senators Richard Schweiker (Penn.) and Jacob Javits (N.Y.) were lead cosponsors. Five days later, thanks to the leadership of Rep .John Brademas (Ind.), the United States House of Representatives voted its approval, 211 to 187, with 180 Democrats and 31 Republicans. This Act passed because of strong bipartisan leadership and the enthusiastic support and hard work of the most broad-based coalition assembled since enactment of the social legislation of the early 1960s. It included poverty, civil rights, children’s and women’s groups across the income spectrum, labor unions, faith leaders, educators, community and citizen organizations. During committee hearings, the need for child development legislation was detailed by leading child advocates, developmental psychologists and pediatricians. Outside groups worked hand-in-hand with Senator Mondale’s staff in the drafting process. The Washington Post called the bill “as important a breakthrough for the young as Medicare was for the old,” and described it as “a vehicle for a new national effort to make childhood livable.” The Act was designed to begin to meet the developmental needs of all children, regardless of family income, by investing major new federal funds to establish high quality comprehensive programs with federal standards under a coordinated delivery system. Its funding authorization the first year of $2 billion—equivalent to $11.3 billion today—is nearly $3 billion more than the 2014 Head Start funding level of $8.6 billion. Although Sen. Mondale introduced weaker versions of the 1971 bill soon thereafter, it took the Children’s Defense Fund Action Council working tirelessly with a broad coalition of early childhood, faith, civil rights and education groups 19 years to help gain enough momentum for enactment of the less comprehensive Child Care and Development Block Grant in 1990, which President George H.W. Bush signed after feared veto threats. In 1971, 40 percent of mothers were in the workforce; today 70 percent are, including 64 percent with children under 6. In 2014, although 15.5 million children were poor, Head Start served fewer than half of eligible 3- and 4-year-olds and Early Head Start reached only 4 percent of eligible infants and toddlers. Only 1 in 6 federally-eligible children receives a subsidy through the Child Care and Development Block Grant, and enrollment numbers continue to decline as the cost of care increases. In 2012, the total combined federal and state child care funding under the Child Care Block Grant and the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program fell to its lowest level since 2002. Center-based childcare for an infant is more expensive than tuition at a public, 4-year college in 31 states and the District of Columbia. Fewer than half of 3- and 4-year olds are enrolled in any preschool program and even fewer are in high quality programs. A baby is born with a brain 25 percent of adult size. By age 5 a child’s brain has grown dramatically to 90 percent of adult size. Research and experience show that quality early childhood programs are one of the best investments the nation can make towards assuring better education and societal outcomes. Nobel prize-winning economist James Heckman estimates the return on investment of such programs at 7-10 percent per year. Deep thanks to Senator Mondale and his co-sponsors in both parties and then House Education and Labor Chair John Brademas and his Republican co-sponsors who sought to put our nation’s children and families above partisan political gain. I hope we may see their likes again and an end to the ugly political grandstanding that denies children the basic supports they need to be ready for and achieve in school in our competitive global world. (Marian Wright Edelman is president of the Children’s Defense Fund. For more information go to www.childrensdefense.org.)
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Outgoing Baltimore mayor shares words of wisdom by D. Kevin McNeir The Washington Informer
When Baltimore native and Mayor Stephanie C. Rawlings-Blake, 45, stepped to the podium at D.C.’s historical National Press Club in Northwest, she looked poised, prepared and polished. But make no mistake. She’s a lot more than just a “pretty face.” In her own words, she’s been attending to the needs of her community, including being the youngest person ever elected to the Baltimore City Council (in 1995), and preparing herself as an attorney admitted to both the Maryland and federal bars, for as long as she can remember. She follows in the footsteps of her father, Howard “Pete” Rawlings, a former member of the Maryland House of Delegates. The second woman to hold the office of mayor in Baltimore, Rawlings-Blake also serves as secretary of the Democratic National Committee [DNC] as well as president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors. She spoke to members of the press and leaders of the District on Wednesday, Oct. 7 about the challenges facing her city, our nation and the DNC as America prepares to elect its next president. “The country’s current view of Baltimore has been shaped by a few things: the excellent writing and acting in the HBO series ‘The Wire” and the two weeks in April following the death of Freddie Gray and the subsequent demonstrations and unrest,” she said. “[But] Baltimore is much more than just what was shown on the endless loops on some of our national media.” Rawlings-Blake, who ran for and won as City Council president in 2007, found herself ascending to the mayor’s post for the balance of the former chief’s term when then-Mayor Sheila Dixon, following her conviction for embezzlement, resigned from office in February 2010. Rawlings-Blake went on to seek and secure a full term as mayor in 2011. Now, with another election
on the horizon, she has decided that she will not seek re-election. “I wanted to stay focused on the work at hand. But we’re not on vacation. With great examples like Boehner and Obama, you can go down the history of people who have been where I am—leaders who served until the end of their term—who have been unfiltered, unchained and unrestricted,” she said. “I have the benefit of every single thing I do not being viewed through the lens of campaigning or politics,” added RawlingsBlake who said resolutely that she would not let politics stand in the way of progress. “There’s more than a year left on my term and every single day we will be pushing for progress for Baltimore’s families.” The mayor addressed topics that included: policecommunity relations; her decision to hold public safety forums throughout the city in order to hear from the citizens of Baltimore; the invitation that she extended to the Department of Justice COPS program so that they could conduct a collaborative review of the City’s police department; and the unrest that has long plagued the city in which she was born and raised. “When I’ve spoken to mayors across the country, virtually all of them have the sobering sense that what happened in Baltimore could have happened in their city as well,” she said. “[We] were not as prepared as we should have been and certainly could have been for the unrest.” “The unrest in Baltimore and the aftermath points to deeper underlying issues: lack of jobs; challenges with housing and education; and disparities in opportunity. If we are to succeed in preventing future unrest, we must attack these underlying issues. None of this was created overnight and it won’t be solved overnight.” “We know that far too many people have been left out of the recovery since the great recession. Gridlock strangles Washington and the consequences of
Virginia student sues liquor agents over bloody arrest
by Larry O’Dell
Associated Press Writer
RICHMOND, Va. (AP)—A University of Virginia student filed a $3 million lawsuit Tuesday against the state liquor agents involved in his bloody and highly scrutinized arrest. Martese Johnson, 21, of Chicago, filed the complaint in U.S. District Court in Charlottesville. It alleges unlawful detention and excessive use of force by three Alcoholic Beverage Control agents. Video and photos of Johnson being pinned to the sidewalk by ABC agents during the March arrest were widely distributed on social media. Johnson, who is Black, could be heard on the video calling the officers racist. He was bleeding from a gash in his head that, according to his lawyer, needed 15 stitches to close. “The Agents’ brutal and unjustified attack on Martese has left Martese permanently disfigured as there is scarring to Martese’s forehead and scalp,” the lawsuit says. Johnson was charged with obstruction of justice and public intoxication or swearing, but those charges were dropped. After an investigation, the Charlottesville prosecutor determined that the agents did nothing wrong and declined to file charges. The incident prompted Gov. Terry McAuliffe to order additional training for ABC’s 130 officers and appoint a task force to examine the agency’s law enforcement practices. The task force last month de-
clined to recommend stripping ABC of its arrest powers but recommended that the agency emphasize regulatory activities, such as licensing compliance, over law enforcement.McAuliffe also ordered a state police investigation, which concluded that agents “only used physical force to detain and arrest Johnson” and did not employ any of the more aggressive tactics that agents are allowed to use when a person resists arrest. The agents were trying to question Johnson, who was then 20, after he showed identification but was turned away from a bar across the street from U.Va.’s campus on St. Patrick’s Day. Johnson’s lawsuit names the ABC, agency director Shawn P. Walker, and agents Jared Miller, Thomas Custer and John Cielakie as defendants. ABC spokeswoman Kathleen Shaw said the agency does not comment on pending litigation. The attorney general’s office did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment. Johnson’s arrest was the second ABC incident to provoke outrage in Charlottesville. Two years ago, several agents who mistook a carton of sparkling water for beer swarmed a vehicle driven by University of Virginia student Elizabeth Daly. One agent brandished a gun and another tried to break her windshield with a flashlight. Daly fled in a panic, grazing two agents with her SUV. Charges against her were dropped, and she settled a lawsuit against the ABC for $212,500.
MORE THAN A PRETTY FACE—Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake speaks during a press conference at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. (Nancy Shia/The Washington Informer) that gridlock—they’re passed on to cities, that’s passed on to mayors,” she
said. Rawlings-Blake recently met with other mayors in
Baltimore in order to define their priorities that they will soon pass on to
presidential candidates, Republican and Democrat alike. The “Mayors Compact for a Better America, she noted, now under final editing for the “exact wording of the document,” will present critical areas that the mayors, after reaching consensus, have identified and want to see included as both part of the national campaign and the national conversation. She added that while she’s often asked what she intends to do after her term ends, she really doesn’t have an answer yet. “There’s hope now that something better is coming for those neighborhoods long ignored and abandoned,” she said. “It is important work to bring hope to our communities. When we do that we focus on making sure that government does what it’s supposed to do for the citizens that we serve.” (Special to the NNPA from The Washington Informer)
New Pittsburgh Courier
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LIFESTYLES
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Rev. Marie Kelly
OCTOBER 28-NOVEMBER 3, 2015
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
Debbie Norrell
Lifestyles Report
A laughing matter I love to laugh and enjoy going to comedy clubs. Just the other day I was thinking, “what has happened to some of my favorite comedians?” I know what happened to one of my all-time favorites, Robin Harris. He died in March of 1990 apparently in his sleep, he was 36 years of age. I enjoyed him on stage and in the movies. His career was really beginning to take off. I often hear other comedians using his material. The next person on my mind is Paul Mooney. I have not seen him for years. A brief search on the Internet confirmed that is he alive and will be performing in New York on Nov. 1 at the B. B. King Blues Club as well as D.C. on Nov. 3 at the Howard Theatre. I sure would like to see him live. I’ve always thought he was one of the smartest comedians. He was always on the mark with current events. Mooney is 74 years old now. He has served as a writer for “Sanford & Son,” “Good Times,” “The Richard Pryor Show” and “In Living Color.” He was born in Louisiana and grew up in Oakland, Calif. He ran away from home and joined the Charles Gody Circus, becoming the first African American ringmaster. In a handout circulated at one of his comedy shows at Caroline’s on Broadway, Mooney was quoted as saying, “When I was ringmaster, I was doing jokes. I think funny.” Mooney’s “big break” is attributed to his meeting and working with Pryor. Next on my all time favorite list is Don D.C. Curry. He was the host of BET’s “Comic View” for a while. He is going to be at the Macon, Ga., Auditorium on Nov. 21 with J. Anthony Brown and Michael Colyar. Now that is good line up. Curry played the sex crazed uncle in the movies, “Next Friday” and “Friday After Next.” And where in the world is Shucky Ducky? Shucky Ducky is the stage name of comedian Cecil Armstrong (born in 1956), a native of Dallas, Texas. He has appeared on “Def Comedy Jam.” He has also been the ringmaster of the UniverSoul Circus. He is known for the catchphrase “Shucky Ducky Quack Quack.” He describes his catchphrase as meaning disappointment or excitement. Looks like he last performed in Nashville in July, I am going to see if I can become his Facebook friend and keep up with him. I am still a huge Chris Rock fan and have several of his DVDs. The light bulb just came on, here is what I will do. I will go on Amazon and buy some of the DVDs of my favorites, especially Paul Mooney, and then when the weather warms back up I’ll become a groupie. Can you tell I’m “jonesing” for some good comedy. Shucky Duck Quack Quack!!! I’m going to continue to check the ticket master list for this comedians when they are in driving distance I’m heading out. Perhaps you would like to join me. (Email the columnist at debbienorrell@aol.com)
PAYING TRIBUTE—Greta Stone
SONG TRIBUTE—Jeff Cullens
HEALTH AND HEART—Margaret Pettigrew
Jerry Ann Allen retires by Debbie Norrell Courier Staff Writer
After 30 years of dedication to keeping health and disease prevention education awareness programs alive in North Side community churches and businesses, Jerry Ann Allen is retiring. Jerry Allen is the co-founder and executive director of Allen Place Community Services Inc. and president of Allen Place Management Resources Inc. Nearly 200 friends, family and colleagues celebrated her retirement on Sept. 26, at t h e LeMont Restaurant with a d i v i n e brunch. Program participants included: daughter, A l i c i a Robinson; Rev. Dr. L a c y Richardson; son, Adrian Allen; Deacon Jeff Cullens; Dr. Margaret Pettig r e w ; G r e t a Stone; Joy Maxberry Woodruff; and Jerry Ann’s husband, Dr. Milton HONOREE—Jerry Ann Allen Allen. The brunch almost turned into somewhat of a roast as friends and family members went way down memory road. Among Jerry Allen’s many accomplishments, she was selected as one of the New Pittsburgh Courier’s “Women of Excellence” in 2012, she is an active member of Metropolitan Baptist Church, Kane Foundation Board of Trustees, Chi Eta Phi Nursing Sorority (Kappa Chapter), treasurer of African American Women for Political Change (PAC), University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health Community Research Advisory Board, Mercy Hospital Parish Nurse Program, Allegheny General and Northside Leadership Conference/State Health Improvement Project, Metropolitan Outreach Ministry Services Inc., and Bonvue Street Block Watch Group.
FRIENDS—Imogene and Will Hines
FAMILY—Adrian Allen, Jerry Allen, Milton Allen and Alicia Allen Robinson
GOOD FRIEND—Joy Woodruff
WE ARE FAMILY (Photos by Debbie Norrell)
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NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
RELIGION
Praise & Worship HILLCREST SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 2340 Wylie Ave., Pgh., PA 15219 412-391-4334 412-566-8757
“Be Encouraged”
Elder Christopher C. Thompson Power Hour Sabbath..............8:15 A.M. Sabbath School.......................9:00 A.M. Divine Worship.....................11:00 A.M. AYS One Hour Before Sunset Prayer Meeting Wednesday....7:30 P.M.
ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CATHOLIC CHURCH Crawford & Centre Ave. Pgh., PA 15219 412-281-3141 Mass Sunday 9:00 A.M. & Noon
Rev. Marie Kelly celebrates first anniversary at Calvary Baptist
Sunday (Gospel Choir Mass) Noon www.stbtmchurch.org
METROPOLITAN BAPTIST CHURCH 22 Sampsonia Street, Northside Pittsburgh., PA 15212 412-231-2554 FAX 412-231-6395 Rev. Lacy F. Richardson, Ph.D., Pastor
FIRST FAMILY—Calvary Baptist Church in the Hill District celebrated Pastor Marie Kelly’s first anniversary, Oct. 11. Pictured above, Rev. Kelly with her husband, Deacon Melverse Kelly. (Photos by Ashley Woodson)
Church School.....................................9:30 A.M. Worship Service.....................8:00 & 10:45 A.M. Bible Study/ Prayer Wednesday.......................6:30/7:30 P.M. www.metropolitanbaptistchurchpgh.com metropolitanbaptist2224@gmail0.com
SIXTH MOUNT ZION BAPTIST CHURCH 6556 Shetland Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206 (412) 441-7839 Church School 9:00 a.m. Worship Service 10:15 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 6:00 p.m.
East Liberty PresbyterianChurch Rev. Dr. Randy Bush, Senior Pastor 412-441-3800 116 S. Highland Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206 www.cathedralofhope.org
Journey Worship.........8:45 a.m. Sanctuary Worship........11 a.m.
Join our growing Praise and Worship Church Community For rate information, call 412481-8302, ext 40. We are looking to
PRAISING THE LORD—Everyone praising the Lord at the anniversary.
PRESENTATION BY CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH’S YOUTH
MIME MINISTRY BY PRECIOUS
RODNEY WILLIAMS hosting the event.
Church Circuit Friendship Luncheon OCT. 31—New Birth Baptist Church, 406 W. Grant St., Duquesne, will host its Friendship Luncheon from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The last Saturday of the month, members of New Birth invite the community from the tri-state area to a delicious lunch, a clothing giveaway for the needy and an enlightening discussion. For more information, call 412-466-2229.
feature our positive youth in the church communities. You can e-mail, fax or mail their bios and photo to:
New Pittsburgh Courier 315 E. Carson St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Fax: 412-481-1360 e-mail:
egaines@newpittsburghcourier.com
Pre-Pastoral Anniversary NOV. 1—Clark Memorial Baptist Church, 1301 Glenn St., Homestead, will host a Pre-Pastoral Anniversary Celebration for Rev. James D. Burwell at 11 a.m. He will celebrate 19 years of service. The theme is: “The Year of Expectation.” There will also be a 4 p.m. Pre-Anniversary Service. For more information, call Patti Dobbs at 412-867-8615.
Fall Revival NOV. 1—Christian Tabernacle Kodesh Church of Immanuel, 2601 Centre Ave., Hill District, will host its Fall Revival at 7 p.m. The theme will be “To be remembered by our Lord.” For four nights, through Nov. 4, the church will welcome Rev. Darnell Leonard, pastor of
Sanctuary of Praise, as the guest revivalist. For more information, call 412-721-4743.
Pre-Holiday Craft Fair NOV. 7—Women of the Church of the Holy Cross Episcopal Church, 7507 Kelly St., Homewood, will host its PreHoliday Craft Fair from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. There will be handcrafted items such as afghans, scarves, jewelry, tshirts and more. Refreshments will be sold. For more information, call 412-242-3209 or email hc15208@gmail.com.
Pastoral Anniversary NOV. 8—Clark Memorial Baptist Church, 1301 Glenn St., Homestead, will host its Pastoral Anniversary Celebration of Rev. James D. Burwell. He will celebrate 19 years of service to the church and the community. The theme will be “The Year of Expectation.” The celebration, which will run through Nov. 15, will include guest preachers, Bishop Jonathan Stewart, Bishop Gerald G. Lloyd, Bishop Arthur Brown, Bishop Ray A. Lankford, Bishop Linwood H. Lewis, Pastor Keith Moncrief, Rev. Dr. Lola Thorpe, Rev. Gilbert Duncan and Rev. Donald P. Turner. For more information, call Patti Dobbs at
412-867-8615.
November Seminar NOV. 8—Greater Works Outreach, 301 College Park Dr., Monroeville, will host its November Seminar at 7 p.m. The three-evening seminar, which will run through Nov. 10, will give attendees the opportunity to participate in teaching and ministry, looking to the word of God for understanding in the area of spiritual freedom. Nursery and childcare are provided each evening. For more information, call 724-327-6500 or visit www.garymitrik.com.
Fall Bazaar NOV. 14—Aspinwall Presbyterian Church, 229 Center Ave., Aspinwall, will host a Fall Bazaar from 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. The event will include food, books, coats, jewelry, toys, kitchenware, Christmas items and more. There will also be a Chinese Auction. For more information, call 412781-2884 or visit www.aspinwallchurch.org. (To have items listed on the Church Circuit, send information at least two weeks in advance to: 315 E. Carson St., Pittsburgh, PA 15219; Fax: 412-481-1360 or email: newsroom@newpittsburghcourier.com.)
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
OCTOBER 28-NOVEMBER 3, 2015
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PEOPLE
Small Seeds celebrate 16 years of supporting families by Nikki Coffee For New Pittsburgh Courier
Small Seeds Development Inc. (SSDI) is all about cultivating and nurturing families, so it’s no wonder that the organization celebrated 16 years of serving and supporting families at its 6th annual Signature Event with the theme of “Planting Seeds,” Oct. 8, at the LeMont Restaurant. SSDI CEO Andrew Cheeseboro, said, “Planting A Seed for a better future for children, teen and families is what we do.” The event offered an opportunity for supporters and friends to join the organization in celebrating this work. With its three service models, SSDI has served families in more than 41 Pittsburgh neighborhoods since 1999. Each year, SSDI provides intensive and critical services to more than 1,430 families throughout Allegheny County in order to combat violence, sustain and support, and provide opportunity to families and
KEINO FITZPATRICK
LEADERS—Andrew Cheeseboro, Stacy Elliott, Nikki Coffee and Melvin Hubbard El. (Photos by Rossano P. Stewart) youth so that they can thrive. Reverend Dr. James H. McLemore, Small Seeds founder and board chairman, said the organization was formed with the purpose of finding and satisfying the needs of families. “The need is that every child deserves a loving and productive family,” he said. “The need is that if these children don’t have a family, then we the community need to band together to make sure that these children have their needs met. That’s what Small Seeds is about.” Doctor Mac, as he is affectionately called, said that when Small Seeds was first conceived, Allegheny County had more single mothers than any other county in the United States
next to Dade County, Fla. “To me that meant that some one didn’t have both parents to help raise them. It means that when they got sick, they may not have had anyone there to respond. So we decided that we had to satisfy the need to assist these parents,” he said. Doctor Mac appealed for assistance from others to identify families in the community who are in need of help. “If some youngster that you know of is struggling, they need to know that there are programs to help, and we are one of those programs,” he said. He called for financial as well as volunteer manpower assistance. “We can’t do this alone. We believe in what we do and
we believe in the people that we help. Help us plant a seed. Small Seeds has deep roots, and we want those roots to go even deeper,” he said. Board member Sonya Toler, public information officer for the City of Pittsburgh Department of Public Safety, said she serves on the board of SSDI because the organization offers an antidote to the destructive situations that she is exposed to through her job. “Small Seeds works to preserve and strengthen the foundation of families and exposes people to opportunities that they may not have known existed. The organization offers direction and hope. Its work is vital to creating a new Pittsburgh that is truly a
DAVID PORCHER AND DONNA BAXTER most livable city for all of its residents,” she said. Through its three main delivery models, SSDI annually supports 2,860 children, 500 teens and 450 young adults. The models are: •Mother to Son (MTS), whose mission is to strengthen families by creating a stable home environment through the support and utilization of community resources and by actively networking with new and existing organizations and agencies. The goal is to improve the quality of life for single mothers, with sons of African American descent and siblings. •Family & Community Teaming, which is a voluntary service that helps families develop a plan based on family strengths and
needs. It is believed that families are able to create their own plan, made up of family-identified needs, outcomes, and action steps in order to best address their unique needs and challenges to prevent violence and the breakdown of the family unit. •Diverse Intervention Response for Effective Change (DIREC) whose goal is to empower teens and young adults, ages 10 to 25, by providing direct services facilitation that yields changes in character, academic achievement, lifestyle, behavior and attitudes. The objective is to address teen issues head-on while offering supports for those who need it most. (For more information on Small Seeds and its programs, visit www.ssdipgh.org.)
Thelma Lovette YMCA celebrates 8th Hill of Hope gala
TAMIKO STANLEY Welcome
BRENDA TATE Honoree
by Renee P. Aldrich New Pittsburgh Courier
More than 175 participants converged at the Marriott City Center, not to go to the Steel Head Grill to watch the Penguins who played in Pittsburgh the same night, but to celebrate the Thelma Lovette YMCA 8th Annual Hill of Hope Gala. On Oct. 16, they gathered to celebrate the
accomplishments over the past year. Board Chair Tamiko Stanley welcomed the crowd and expressed that the evening’s event was more than about the Y, but about expanding the reach outside the confines of the Y and helping families and communities stay connected to the kind of resource that leads to a healthier lifestyle—hence
the theme of the evening Connecting Communities and Helping Families. Thelma Lovette YMCA Executive Director Aaron Gibson expanded on that welcome by giving thanks to all those whose memberships make the work of the YMCA doable as well as to the sponsors whose support made it all possible. Gibson shared with the audience just some of the facts of the three years. They currently service 120 kids from 26 different areas, provide special programming in STEM during the afterschool programming and that last year
PARTY TIME—Everyone danced the night away after the program. (Photos by J.L. Martello)
AARON GIBSON Executive director Thelma Lovette YMCA
KIMBERLY SLATER-WOOD Award presenter
RIG RIGGINS President and CEO YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh.
$80,000 in scholarships was ment and that it was clear this event and for the inthat folks were committed crease that it brings.” raised. Honorary chairs Scott and to changing their lifestyles; Gibson introduced Susan Lammie gave words I was especially proud. And Thelma Morris, daughter of of congratulation and of it honors me to say that at Lovette, and her husband, pride from even being from 3000 members strong—in- Greg, to the audience; they Pittsburgh and surrounded cluding our outreach in flew in from Arizona to by all the exciting changes other communities, the share this occasion. He then within communities that Thelma Lovette Y is more gave his final remarks saythan just a gym, we are a ing, “While we celebrate our bring positive change. “Thanks so much to all of center piece of this commu- successes, we have no room you for the oversight of this nity.” for complacency—many of Board member Kim our families are still strugTreasure in the Hill; this Y is a living breathing excit- Slater-Wood made the for- gling, we want to reach ing place for folks to extend mal presentation of the Hill them; so we must keep our the mission of Humanity,” of Hope Award to retired good work up and we work Pittsburgh Police Officer towards that in the years to Susan Lammie said. After a sumptuous dinner and recently elected mem- come.” was served along with wine ber of the State Democratic The evening concluded and dessert of cheese cake, Committee, Brenda Tate. with fun, fellowship and there were more brief reTate responded to her dancing to the House of marks from Gibson along award by saying “I give all Soul Band wrapping the with a short video that de- praises to God for what he Gala celebration up in mupicted the story of Lovette has done, I’m grateful for sical sounds from “back in and her stalwart dedication this organization, and for the day.” to the Hill District community, which was a testimony as to why her name now graces this state of the art Y. Gibson shared how overwhelmed he was with the opening membership numbers; he explained, “When the numbers exceeded what was required to operate in the black, I was amazed and happy, but when I was able to see that these memberships weren’t just for “show” but for commit- HONORARY CHAIRS—Scott and Susan Lammie
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OCTOBER 28-NOVEMBER 3, 2015
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Black women voters key to presidential election by Diane I. Daniels For New Pittsburgh Courier
November 3 marks the next Pennsylvania election; when the positions of county executive, state senators, Supreme Court judges, county controller, county treasurer, district attorney and, in some districts, county council, city council, magistrates’ district judges and school board directors will be solidified. But the 2016 presidential campaign has over shadowing the local election. Either way, women are expected to play a major role in who gets elected on all levels. As a way to discover the opinions of Black women concerning the upcoming 2016 presidential election, a Power of the Sister Vote Poll has been conducted by ESSENCE and the Black Women’s Roundtable (BWR) to assess Black women’s priority issues for the election and to understand their motivation for voting. The results of the 1,862 African American women surveyed indicated to Vanessa DeLuca, editor-inchief of ESSENCE, that Black women are taking an active interest in the 2016 election and that they plan to vote for a candidate who will address issues that can improve their quality of life. “We anticipate that Black women will continue to have strong voter turnout numbers and perhaps lead the nation as they have done in the last two Presidential elections,” she said. “Top issues for Black women revolve around money and basic needs,” said
SHARING THE RESULTS—Melanie Campbell, convener of the BWR; Vanessa DeLuca, editor-in-chief of ESSENCE; Avis Jones DeWeever, BWR researcher; and Holli Holliday, BWR team member, reveal the results of the Power of the Sister Vote Poll. (Photo by Diane I. Daniels) Melanie Campbell, convener of the BWR and president and CEO of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation. She noted that the results of the poll indicated that affordable healthcare, livable wage jobs and college affordability are the three most important issues for women of all ages and political affiliation. Campbell said that the indication of affordable healthcare being a major concern aligns with their 2015 State of Black Women Report findings that among states with African American populations exceeding 20 percent, few offer adequate health insurance coverage for Black women. The poll identified other key issues to include quality public education, criminal justice reform, policing reform, the right to reproductive choices, expanding voter rights, earned sick time, paid family leave, entrepreneurship opportunities and immigration reform. The Power of the Sister
Local student crowned Miss Lincoln University by Merecedes J. Howze For New Pittsburgh Courier
Imani Milliones-Roman, of Lawrenceville, was recently crowned Miss Lincoln University 2015-2016 in the school’s International Cultural Center. The historical Black university’s coronation comes after a lengthy selection process and pageant, including areas where she was judged on oratory skills, talent, evening gown, student vote and an interview. Milliones-Roman’s versatility and positive spirits put her ahead of the pack. For her talent, she performed a piano medley including Beethoven, Alicia Keys, Sam Smith and Forever Jones. Her platform as Miss Lincoln University is clear. In Swahili, Imani means “faith.” She plans to remain genuine, and wants fellow students to have “faith” in her. From there, MillionesRoman created an acronym for her name’s meaning. FAITH stands for Finding ourselves, Achieving academic success, Interacting with the Community, Time management, and Humbling ourselves. According to Milliones-Roman, those are the essentials to the college student experience at Lincoln. “I care about their journey and I want them to be involved in mine, “ said Milliones-Roman about the 1600 student body. “The goal is four years. Although we are only here for four years, essentially, we are preparing for the rest of our lives,” said Milliones-Roman. The 21-year-old indicates three things to her undergraduate collegiate success; family, early education, and financial aid. Locally, the name Milliones rings many bells. The daughter of DuBois Milliones and Lalicia Roman, Milliones-Roman’s grandparents, Margaret and Jake Milliones, whom she’s never met, were former school board directors, educators, and activists. “I feel like having the name Milliones in Pittsburgh prepared me. Everyone knew my family and I was well taken care of. Those connections and networking really helped with my social life.” Her grade schooling also played a significant role. In 2012, Milliones-Roman was a part of the first graduating
IMANI MILLIONES-ROMAN class of Pittsburgh Barack Obama Academy of International Studies. Pittsburgh Obama is where she says she was best prepared for college, with most credit going to Assistant Superintendent and Principal Wayne Walters. “Dr. Walters opened up my eyes to a lot of things culturally, socially, and academically,” said Milliones-Roman. From paying for her Black college tour to traveling abroad, Milliones-Roman said, “Pittsburgh Public Schools prepared me. Because of the International Baccalaureate program, my first year of college was a piece of cake. My counterparts were struggling in classes where I was like ‘this is easy.’” Like thousands of other Pittsburgh Public Schools graduates, Milliones-Roman was eager to take advantage of the Pittsburgh Promise when she headed to the southeast college. “The Pittsburgh promise is the reason why I am not in debt. I have no student loans,” said Milliones-Roman. The Pittsburgh Promise is a last-minute scholarship to qualifying Pittsburgh Public Schools students that provides a maximum scholarship amount of $30,000. “I am eternally grateful for the Promise. We depend on that for our education.” Surrounded with lots of love and support, MillionesRoman has advice for every young girl. “Anybody can be me! I haven’t done anything unreachable. My dreams became reality because I had people around me who believed in me. Pittsburgh has the same resources, you just have to take full advantage of it.” Upon graduation, Milliones-Roman plans to attend graduate school, majoring in educational leadership.
Vote Poll participants were women nationally that identified themselves as registered voters or has intentions to register and view voting as a responsibility. Of the respondents, 78 percent identified the democrats as representing their interest, 18 percent identified with no party, one percent republican and one percent suggested that libertarians represent their interest. Results of the poll signified that 88 percent of the respondents would vote for President Barack Obama in 2016 if they could. The poll pointed out that African American millennials, people ages 18 to 34, appear to be trending away from identifying with political parties. Their interests are in presidential candidates that commit to improv-
ing law enforcement and community relations, reducing taxes for low and middle income people, and increasing the minimum wage to at least $15.00 an hour. Other results indicated that millennials, which consisted of 14 percent of the respondents, cited college affordability, the quality of public education and criminal justice reform as highly important. Eliminating mandatory minimum sentences for nonviolent drug offenses, expanding voting rights protections, nominating a Black woman on the U.S. Supreme Court, and eliminating high infant and maternal mortality rate are the reasons poll respondents identified that they would vote for a presidential candidate. ESSENCE and the BWR
announced its partnership and the launching of the Power of the Sister Vote poll, which is aimed at more than 10,000 women, in August during the ESSENCE Festival in New Orleans. In addition to the Power of the Sister Vote survey, the partnership includes ESSENCE’s participation in the Black Women Roundtable’s Healthy, Wealthy and Wise Empowerment Tour that addresses income inequality, health justice, criminal justice and retirement security. The 2015 tour provided women across the country with tools and resources on economic empowerment, entrepreneurship, holistic health, civic engagement and leadership development. The multi-city event is led by the NCBCP statebased affiliates, as well as the BWR networks and partners in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Michigan, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C. The Pittsburgh affiliate, Sisters Saving Ourselves Now, headed by Rev. Dr. Judith L. Moore, held their event in August. The theme of the fourth annual Black Family Summit was “Preserving and Enhancing the Black Family.” The “No More” unity prayer, a time when churches, organizations and individuals simultaneously across Allegheny County prayed for peace, was initiated.
For 45 years, ESSENCE, which has a brand reach of 13.4 million, has been the leading source of cuttingedge information and specific solutions relating to every area of African American women’s lives. The publication is the preeminent lifestyle magazine for African American women; generating brand extensions such as the ESSENCE Festival, ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood and Black Women in Music, Window on Our Women and Smart Beauty consumer insights series, the ESSENCE Book Club, ESSENCE.com, and ventures in digital media (mobile, television and VOD). ESSENCE Communications Inc. is the number one media company dedicated to African American women, with a multi-platform presence in publishing, live events and online. The BWR is the women and girls empowerment arm of the NCBCP. It promotes health and wellness, economic security & prosperity, quality public education and global empowerment. BWR established its Intergenerational Policy Network in 2008, which is comprised of a diverse group of Black women civic leaders representing the issues and concerns of millions of Black people who live across the United States and around the world.
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ENTERTAINER OCTOBER 28-NOVEMBE 3, 2015
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
Cover To Cover
A once in a lifetime concert
‘Prince of Darkness’
Stevie Wonder’s ‘Songs in the Key of Life’ tour by Genea L. Webb
by Terri Schlichenmeyer For New Pittsburgh Courier
Your numbers weren’t picked last night. Ah, another worthless lottery ticket. No shopping spree or mortgage payoff for you. You’ll have to go to work and get your incredible wealth just like everybody else. Or, as you’ll read in “Prince of Darkness” by Shane White, you could become rich the oldfashioned way: through grift. Though he showed up in New York City in the wake of scandal, nobody knew for sure where Jeremiah G. Hamilton had come from. Some sources said he was born in the Caribbean— which he admitted to, but he also claimed Richmond, Virginia, as his first home. Nobody knew, though, because Hamilton, an African American man, spent most of his adult life hiding facts and creating fiction. Wherever he got his start, Hamilton launched himself early. In 1828, and “barely
into his 20s,” he was involved in a counterfeit scam in Haiti that would’ve meant death, had he been caught. With the help of locals, however, he escaped and arrived in “Gotham,” but not without notice: newspapers of the day splashed the story, but Hamilton managed to keep mum on who’d helped him. Almost immediately, he started borrowing money in a “frenetic, almost desperate” way, money he had no intention of paying back, which ultimately landed Hamilton in court. There were at least 10 lawsuits against him between 1830 and 1835, and there may’ve been more. Then came The Great Fire of 1835 in which “dozens of acres” of Manhattan were burned to the ground, along with the records of several businessmen who’d been convinced to invest with him. Hamilton denied the transactions, kept their $25,000, and gained the moniker of “Prince of Darkness.” For the rest of his life—even after being forced to declare bankruptcy—Hamilton always landed on his feet, “shunned” other African Americans, and even invested in companies that overtly practiced racism. He died in 1875 in a “comfortable and elegant” residence he shared with his white wife and family. So why are history books silent on Hamilton’s story? That’s a question author Shane White had, after he discovered Hamilton’s name and began digging. Could it have been due to the color of Hamilton’s skin? It’s possible, White says, but in “Prince of Darkness,” he also indicates that the lack of documentation may’ve been because Hamilton rankled white financiers and investors, and didn’t appear to care that he’d done so. That insouciance, in light of the racism that Hamilton surely endured, would be an interesting story itself but White embellishes the tale with an abundance of history and extensive biographies of other influential people of Hamilton’s time. (“Prince of Darkness: The Untold Story of Jeremiah Hamilton, Wall Street’s First Black Millionaire” by Shane White, c.2015, Palgrave McMillan, $27.99/$32.50 Canada, 368 pages.)
For New Pittsburgh Courier
Pittsburgh audience members really got their money’s worth when singer, songwriter, producer Stevie Wonder graced the Consol Energy Center stage for a performance of his “Songs in the Key of Life” tour. For three and a half hours Wonder, dressed in a black suit jacket with a beaded neru collar and black pants, sang every song on the double LP that many call the best of his career. “The reason that I wanted to extend this tour that we started a couple of years ago, Songs in the Key of Life Performance Tour, was because we’ve never done it here in Pittsburgh and I want to do it as many places that I can because this is the last time we’re going to do it in the states. I wanted to do it because you know it and we all know that more than ever in the world, love is in such need of love,” Wonder said to the adoring fans that were in attendance. The original tour began in November of 2014 with a series of dates in the United States and Canada around the 38th anniversary of the record’s release. “Songs in the Key of Life” was Wonder’s 18th album. Released in 1976 on Motown Records, it is the culmination of his classic period albums and contains songs in every music genre including Pop, Jazz, Funk and R& B. It was recorded at the Record Plant’s Hollywood and Sausalito, Ca., locations and at the Hit Factory in New York City. The final mixing was done at
STEVIE WONDER (AP file photo) Crystal Sound. The album and its bonus four-song EP won Wonder a bevy of awards in 1977 including Album of the Year, Best Male R & B Vocal Performance, Producer of the Year and the Grammy for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance. “Songs in the Key of Life” became among the highest selling and criticallyacclaimed albums of Wonder’s career and of all time. In 2005, 29 years after its release, “Songs in the Key of Life” was ranked number 57 on Rolling Stone Magazine’s list of the Top 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. Also that same year, the album was preserved into the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress, which called it aesthetically, culturally and historically significant.
Wonder was honored to return to Pittsburgh where his first wife, singer/songriter Syreeta Wright, was born. The two were married from 1970-1972. “She’s on a lot of songs that I‘ve written. You hear here voice on “If You Really Love Me” and all that kind of stuff,” Wonder said during the concert. “I give all honor to God for being here with you tonight.” Accompanied by members of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Wonder performed to perfection such hits as “You Can Feel It All Over,” “Have a Talk With God,” “I Wish,” and “Knocks Me Off My Feet.” “It’s great performing with your local orchestra and musicians,” Wonder said. “We have less and less of that happening now because there’s no art in the
schools,” he said to thunderous applause. Not only was Wonder amazing, his background singers held their own. Wonder gave each member of his team a chance to shine by performing solos. One highlight during that portion of the concert was when his three background singers performed a remake of En Vogue’s “Hold On (To Your Love).” The girls just need to branch off and form their own group. They would take the music world by storm. During “It is Magic” Wonder used the harp originally recorded by Jazz Harpist Dorothy Ashby. When he got to the final song on “Songs in the Key of Life,” the audience thought the concert was over. Because it was nearing 11 p.m. and it was a Wednes-
day night. That wasn’t the case. After he drank some water, he was no longer Stevie Wonder. He turned into his alter ego DJ Tick Tick Boom “Here’s the deal here’s how it works. If I stay you’ve got to pay attention. You’ve got to focus and be a part of the celebration. Are you feeling me? Anything can happen do you feel me?” Wonder said before bringing Pittsburgh’s legendary Skyliners on the stage to perform “Since I don’t Have You” along with him. Following that, Wonder ended the night with the classic songs “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” and “Just Enough for the City” and “Superstitious.” It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see the genius of Stevie Wonder unfold on stage.
Ambrosius wowed August Wilson Center crowd by Genea L. Webb For New Pittsburgh Courier
For Singer Marsha Ambrosius, music is more than a catchy hook and grooving melody. “Whatever the emotion is I take it to its highest heights whether that’s love, lust, pain or joy. It’s giving you the colors in that. Like how Stevie Wonder writes. He writes so vividly you can smell the music. I want to bring what that is to music back again,” said Ambrosius, 38, who hails from Liverpool, England. “Every time I make new music, I want that to be your sound track. I want you to cook to it, to clean to it, to make love to it, to break up to it. Whatever it’s going to be it’s the soundtrack of your life. “People get to see my personality in concerts and they are surprised when I’m on stage cursing people out and you know being absolutely honest,” continued Ambrosius who currently resides in Los Angeles and enjoys talking to her family back in London when she’s got down time on the road. “People are so stuck up that it’s too farfetched for them to have a cursing moment. I need to reiterate that the reason people love my music is because I’m completely honest. I don’t have a chill factor.” Ambrosius shared many personal stories during an intimate concert she performed at the August Wilson Center as part of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s Soul Session Series. The shows feature award-winning soul, jazz and R & B artists in the music industry today. “Marsha hasn’t been to Pittsburgh that often and I thought it would be a concert that people would enjoy and come out to,” explained Janis Burley Wilson, vice president, Strategic Partnerships and Community Engagement/Director of Jazz Programs.
Ambrosius began her musical career as a member of the duo Floerty. She and Natalie Stewart (the other half of Floetry) met though their
love of basketball, the two met while attending the Brit School for Performing Arts and Technology. At the time, Stewart was a founding
MARSHA AMBROSIUS (Photos by Gail Manker)
member of the performance poetry group, 3 Plus 1, which was gaining exposure in London, Manchester and Birmingham, England. In 1999, Ambrosius wrote a song called “Fantasize” and asked Stewart to lend some of her poetry to the song. That magical collaboration led to the creation of Floetry. A year later the duo traveled across the pond to perform on the U.S. poetry circuit. They performed in various venues in Atlanta before moving on to Philadelphia. Philly is where they met Darren “Limitless” Henson and Keith “Keshon” Pelzer of DJ Jazzy Jeff’s Touch of Jazz Studio and began recording. In 2002, Floerty signed with Dream Works Records and released “Floetic.” It debut album produced top hits “Say Yes” and “Getting Late.” Three years later Floetry released its sophomore record, “Flo’Ology” before the pair decided to take on different career paths. “Everything happens for a reason and in music it’s all about preserving our legend. It’s all about preserving the unicorn if you see them every day they’re not special anymore. I feel like Floetry and the era of music that we were so blessed to be a part of is missing,” Ambrosius said. “So it felt necessary, especially with the tour we just did, to bring that back to remind people that hey that music that used to make you feel good, it’s still around you just have to know where to look for it.” Ambrosius began building a career as a song writer and producer, working with the likes of Alicia Keys, Charlie Wilson, Kanye West, Nas and Busta Rhymes to name a few. Her 2011 debut solo album “Late Nights & Early Mornings” debuted at # 1 on the R & B, Hip-Hop album chart. Her single, “Far Away” garnered her a
Centric Award at the 2011 BET Awards. She released her second album, “Friends & Lovers” in 2014. It produced the hit “Stronger’ which is a remake of Sade’s song of the same name. Ambrosius was nominated for the Best R & B Song in 2012 and 2013. She netted the Grammy for Best R & B Performance in 2012. Wearing a blue high-low shirt dress, white patterned short-shorts, a black men’s suit jacket and black highheeled boots, Ambrosius opened her concert with “Late Night Early Morning” the title track from her award-winning album of the same name. Then she launched into the shocking, “69” off of her “Friends and Lovers” album. “It feels very formal in here,” she said to the audience sat stunned after the lyrics to the sex-themed song. “With music there’s things that you want to say and you write a song to make people know how you really feel.” Once she got the audience where she wanted them,Ambrosius performed “I Hope She Cheats on You (With a Basketball Player”) and then “Butterflies,” a song she penned and sang background vocals on and that was recorded by Michael Jackson and released on his “Invincible” album. She went on to perform “I Won’t Pretend” before ending her set with a rendition of the “Soul Glo” commercial from the movie “Coming to America.” “This was sister girl to sister girl. We’re having a conversation. What’s on your mind? That’s what the songs feel like and that’s what the concert is like. I hadn’t been to Pittsburgh in a few years and this was amazing it was a good crowd,” Ambrosius said. Her fans, which she calls “Martians,” will be happy to know that she is currently working on a new album and will be releasing it early next year.
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NEW HORIZON CAST PARTY—Cast, producers, directors and writers of New Horizon Theater’s “I.D.” got together for a cast party. Pictured, not in order, are: Joyce Meggerson-Moore, board chair; Anastasia Davidson; Cecil Blutcher; Jessica Fleischman; Vaugh Kelsey Davis; Courtney Elaine Brown; Aaron Densley; Jenn; Marco Munoz, Megan Pickrell; Malena Ramirez; Steve Broadnax, director; and Elizabeth J. Stewart. (Photos supplied by New Horizon Theater) GREAT FAN—Attorney Glenn Mahone, right, talks to actor Cecil Blutcher from New Horizon’s “I.D.” on opening night.
ENJOYING THE EVENING— Auxiliary Board member Jean Bryant enjoys talking to actresses Courtney Elaine Brown and Malena Ramirez from the play, “I.D.,” which is a collaboration with Penn State.
October-November Thursday 29 Free Thursdays The Carnegie Museum of Art and Natural History presents Free Thursdays in October from 3-8 p.m. at the Carnegie Museum of Art and Natural History, 4400 Forbes Ave., Oakland. This is a fun way to have a night out at the museums, with world-class scientific and art collections, as well as special exhibitions. For more information, call 412-622-3131 or visit www.carnegiemuseums.org.
Friday 30 Jazz at Andys Andys Wine Bar at the Fairmont Pittsburgh Hotel presents Jazz at Andys from 5-7:30 p.m. at 510 Market St., Downtown. Special guest DJ Malls will be spinning the vinyl as part of the VINYL Happy Hour. Following the happy hour, there will be a musical performance by Tania Grubbs. It is open to the public. For more information, visit www.andyswinebar.com.
Cameo Just A Few of Us presents the Black & White Gala starring Cameo at 7:30 p.m. at the Monroeville Convention Center, 200 Mall Blvd., Monroeville. Hosted by KDKA’s Bob Allen and “Over 40 is Fabulous’” Deanna Marie, the American soul-influenced funk band, Cameo, will share the stage with The Collaboration fea-
turing Kevin Howard, Brother to Brother and Eddie Baccus Jr. For more information, visit www.grooveproductionsinc.com.
Saturday 31 Balafon Dance Ensemble The Kelly Strayhorn presents the 2015 Black River African Conference with the Balafon West African Dance Ensemble at 8 p.m. at the Kelly Strayhorn Theater, 5941 Penn Ave., East Liberty. The Ensemble will perform “Sundiata Kieta Celebration,” which is the tale of an exiled emperor who returns home to claim his throne. Balafon combines intricate choreography and elaborate costumes with live music and song. This show is part of the Strayhorn’s World Stage Series. There will also be a preshow mixer at 7 p.m. For more information, call 412-363-3000 or visit www.kelly-strayhorn.com.
Sunday 1 Isaiah Blue and The Bowtie Shorties MINI of Pittsburgh presents Isaiah Blue and The Bowtie Shorties at the Father Ryan Arts Center, 420 Chartiers Ave., McKees Rocks. A band with the self proclaimed tightness of James Brown, the stage prowess of Prince and the production value of the late Michael Jackson, Isaiah Blue and The Bowtie Shorties fuse funk, soul, R&B and rock to make what they call retro-
futurefunk. For more information, visit retrofuturefunk@gmail.com.
Monday 2 Savoy Jazz Savoy Restaurant presents Savoy Jazz Mondays from 5-9 p.m. at 2623 Penn Ave., Strip District. Every Monday guests can enjoy live jazz in a sophisticated atmosphere by some of the city’s most talented jazz performers. The attire is business casual. For more information, call 412-281-0660 or visit www.savoypgh.com.
Tuesday 3 Look What A Wonder The Senator John Heinz History Center presents a listening session of the radio play, “Look What A Wonder: A Fictionalized Account of the Denmark Vesey Slave Conspiracy of 1822” from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Strip District. The play, written by Walter Robinson, is a gospel musical about Denmark Vesey, a free Black man living in Charleston, S.C., and who plotted an elaborate Black insurrection. The insurrection was aborted and Vesey, along with 35 others, was captured, found guilty in a closed trial and hung. Following the performance there will be a webcast discussion with the playwright. For more information, call Caroline Fitzgerald at 412-454-6373 or email ccfitzgerald@heinzhistorycenter.org.
‘Family Time’ boosts Bounce TV’s success AT L A N TA / P R N e w s w i r e / — Bounce TV—the nation’s fastest-growing television network designed for African American audiences—continued its ratings climb in the third quarter of 2015, setting network records for viewership and the delivery of key targeted demographic audiences in both Primetime and Total Day with September becoming the network’s most-watched month ever. The third quarter was Bounce TV’s fourth consecutive quarter of growth. As a part of that growth season three of “Family Time,” the newest original sitcom in the cut becomes #1 series, began Tuesday at 9 p.m.
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PEOPLE
My Brother’s Keeper initiative to extend president’s agenda by Michael B. Rose For New Pittsburgh Courier
“There are a lot of kids out there who need help, who are getting a lot of negative reinforcement. And is there more that we can do to give them the sense that their country cares about them and values them and is willing to invest in them?” These were the words of President Obama in 2013, a few months before announcing his My Brother’s Keeper initiative. Recently, more than 100 African American members of Pittsburgh’s leading foundations and corporations met at Ebenezer Baptist Church in the Hill District to answer that call. The agenda started with giving historical context of the background and development of the movement, and then splitting into groups where they were able to see some of the predevelopment work of what’s going to go into the final report, and internally discuss within breakout sessions what’s missing and what’s good so far. Finally, a panel was convened that discussed the goals for the initiative in detail. To be an ongoing success, MBK must improve on the six goals set by President Obama. First: Kids are entering school ready to learn socially and cognitively. Second: Kids are reading at grade level by third grade. Third: All kids graduate from high school. Fourth: Once they graduate from high school they are in a training program or higher education institution from trade school to college or military. Fifth: Make sure they complete the program. Sixth: Make sure they feel safe from violent crime. After the shooting death of Trayvon Martin, the President wanted to know what more we could do to support young men of color. The report came back last
BROTHER’S KEEPERS—Youth from all over the Pittsburgh area recently met to discuss how they can improve conditions for urban Blacks throughout this area as well as the country. (Photo by Michael Arnold Mages) summer with broad goals but then the decision was made to localize the goals to counties and cities. Mary Esther Van Shura, director of Community Affairs for the County Executive, and Latrenda Leonard, deputy chief of Operations and Administration for Mayor Peduto, went on a listening tour to translate recommendations to the committee. “It was a great collaboration between the county executive and the mayor,” said Van Shura. Leonard said there was really no rhyme or reason to those that got invited, just one prerequisite. “We invited folks who attended our vocal action summit last year which marked the launch of MBK in Allegheny County. We figured these guys are leading or-
ganizations, they’re representing our communities, they’re representing higher education. So they are the best people for the job.” While the inside of the room was filled with business people from all career fields, Leonard said the onus will be on everyone who comes in contact with kids to do their small part to encourage the youth in their presence “How do we get the barber, the crossing guard, the police officer to understand every time a kid comes in contact with you it is your opportunity…it is an honor to be an influence?” Michael Quigley, assistant professor at Robert Morris University and panel member for the event said that even though he is in the business of college education, the fact that only
20 percent of Americans have a college degree means that doors should be open and minds should be opened to embracing solutions that speak to the 80 percent of children who will not finish college. “Unfortunately these days a bachelor’s degree is a dime a dozen and even a master’s degree does not necessarily guarantee that the holder will be immediately viable in the job market. However we can say with a great deal of certainty that the cost of not attaining some sort of post-secondary education credential is much higher than the cost of an education.” Areion Abney, program officer for the Poise Foundation and fellow panel member, realizes, as do many others, that there have been
many great efforts put into this issue that have never bore any fruit. He said this time it will be different. “One of the things we talked about ad nauseam is that many of us have had the fortune of sitting on a task force, and it’s no offense to any task force I have sat on before but typically what happens after the report is completed and nobody knows what to do after that. The task force gets dispersed and everyone goes back to working in isolation and the report ends up collecting dust on a shelf,” he said. “What we said is we want to do this different so that this task force gets raised to a level of a standing commission so that it is recognized amongst our private, public and non-profit partners so that this has some
longevity to it so it can be sustained in perpetuity.” One topic that didn’t come up at the forum, but that all off the record said was a good idea when asked, was addressing African American culture itself, particularly pertaining to possibly the most influential element in the everyday lives of young Black males— their music. “We can and we should challenge entertainment media outlets in this region to be more progressive and conscious in terms of the music they put out,” said Quigley. “Adolescents basically have an attention span of their age plus four minutes. Largely what they focus on is a life of the surreal instead of the life of the real. When they are thinking of their life’s possibilities it is often times associated with the music they are listening to.” Whether the tone of the music created for consumption is to become an issue or not nationwide, the feeling is that a ball has gotten rolling that with leverage and momentum will bowl down some obstacles in the way of attaining the American dream for all quarters of society. Thomas Jamison, founder of Dream Cream Ice Cream and lifelong member of Ebenezer Baptist, was invited to listen amongst the rest of the entrepreneurs and activists. He believes that all of the pieces to the puzzle are on the table, now there needs to be a meeting of the minds to make sense of the picture. “There are already enough resources and talent that are doing the work that needs to be done, but we just aren’t leveraging them enough as good as we could, so making sure that we leverage them properly I think will be the most important thing to come out of this,” Quigley concluded.
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James Clingman
Blackonomics
Watch this film on Black Friday before you spend another dollar (NNPA)—When you die, what will you leave behind: bills or benefits? That’s the main question posed by the upcoming documentary film by Ric Mathis, a videographer and filmmaker in Atlanta. The question is applicable on a personal and collective level; one each of us should honestly answer. Mathis has captured the essence of that question, as well as the practical solutions to the frivolous Black spending phenomenon, in his upcoming film, “Black Friday: What Legacy Will You Leave?” He transposed all the Black Friday rhetoric into appropriate action, not only for that day, but throughout the entire year and for the rest of our lives. Topics of discussion in the film include negative spending habits, introduction of financial literacy to our youth, and the absence of support for African-American owned businesses by Black consumers. Mathis says, “Black Friday is the Noah’s Ark of Economics, if you are not up on this you risk drowning in a sea of debt.” After discovering the alarming imbalance of Black spending compared to economic growth within the Black community, Mathis used his videography expertise to educate and stimulate appropriate behavioral change with his film, “Black Friday.” He lays out the deficit-based economic model by which most of our people are living, and then presents an asset-based model for which we must strive. As I stated on Montoya Smith’s radio show, “Mental Dialogue” (Atlanta, GA.), considering the fact that Black Friday has saturated our mental tablets to the point of becoming just another cute phrase with no substance, writing and even doing a film on the subject of Black Friday is tantamount to trying to find a new angle to sell a bag of ice. Having written about Black Friday for a decade or so, and even though I heeded the calls for blackouts and staying home on that day, my response has always been that blackouts would not really make a difference unless we implemented a long term strategy that directed the dollars we withdraw back to ourselves and our own businesses. It’s not just about what “not” to do; it’s more about what “to” do. Mathis deals with my contention in a positive manner by covering the short-term and the long-term repercussions of our withdrawal and recycling of Black dollars in his film. It’s not just about Black Friday itself or the few days preceding and following Black Friday. Rather, the film captures the various aspects of a successful economic empowering strategy, beginning with an introspective question each of us can answer, and then building a foundation of information regarding frivolous spending, economic literacy, saving, investing, business development and support, cooperative and collective economics; then Mathis caps it all off with practical solutions to stop the bleeding and reverse our trade deficit with other groups in this country. The term Black Friday did not emanate from Black people. After several iterations of the term as far back as 1961, it has been promoted as a positive reality of businesses reaping huge profits not only from Black consumers, but from all consumers. Although quite apropos when it comes to the Black consumer, vis-à-vis our penchant for spending our money on everything anyone else makes, the term “Black Friday” does not have to be our reality, which is the basic message from the film. We deserve what we accept, and we must stop accepting the self-deprecating images and self-defeating characterizations attributed to Black people as it pertains to our economic interests. Our economic imperative must be rooted in the reality of our relative economic position in this country. Many of the stories we read in mainstream and social media are centered on Black athletes and entertainers who spend tremendous sums of money on material things and/or waste it in clubs on liquor and strippers. We read about robberies and murders by young people who want a certain pair of shoes or a jacket—and the latest craze: young girls are stealing hair! SEE WATCH C2
DIVERSITY SCORECARD—According to Jesse Jackson: For the nation’s automakers, diversity is measured in colors and it’s better to be a solid green than a token yellow or a non-existent red.
by Stacy M. Brown
Ford and GM score high diversity marks
NNPA Contributing Writer
The recently released Rainbow PUSH Automotive Project, an initiative of the Citizenship Education Fund, revealed a multitopic assessment scorecard of diversity in the auto industry. The scorecard provides consumers, investors and industry experts a snapshot of each automotive manufacturer’s ability to build and sustain ethnic diversity as a driver of marketplace competitiveness, according to a release from the Rev. Jesse Jackson’s Rainbow PUSH Coalition. “The only way to achieve a meaningful return on investment for the dollars we spend with auto companies is to measure our progress on fair trade, because what is measured is what matters,” said Jackson, the founder and president of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition. Those who received a green certification reflect best practices for ethnic diversity while those with a yellow mark showed some indication of diversity evident goals, initiatives and accountability, according to the ranking system. Red indicated that diversity initiatives and investments were non-existent, not disclosed or that the company did not provide enough relevant information for scoring or they didn’t submit a completed survey. The release of the diversity scorecard highlighted the Rainbow PUSH Global Automotive Summit in Detroit where auto executives, suppliers, dealers and government officials gathered to discuss ways to strengthen and create opportunities in the industry for minorities. “Minority companies need a short-term plan for sur-
vival and a long-term critical path to success with measurable goals, targets and timetables,” Jackson said. Of the 12 automotive companies to participate in the scorecard, Ford Motor Co. received the top ratings, including green marks in five of six categories. BMW and Mercedes Benz were the only companies to receive red indicators in each of the categories which included employment, advertising, marketing, procurement, minority dealer development and philanthropy. Mercedes-Benz spokeswoman Donna Boland told Automotive News that the company’s ratings were the result of an “unusual situation” in which the company was moving its U.S. headquarters from Montvale, N.J., to Atlanta as the survey was conducted. As a result, the automaker was unable to know the composition of its work force since it knew many of its workers would not move with the company, Boland said. “Unfortunately, the scorecard reflects red when data is not available,” Boland said. “We’ll have to live with that, but it in no way reflects our commitment or accomplishment in this area.” Boland said the company
spoke with Jackson in February to discuss its situation. “We have had conversations with Reverend Jackson and his team since then and we will be meeting with him before the end of the year to take him through where we are in a variety of areas,” Boland said. Rainbow/PUSH also criticized Mercedes-Benz in 2013 for not replying to its survey. Rainbow/PUSH officials said Jackson and Executive Director Glenda Gill will meet with automakers to discuss the results of the survey and to develop a “road map for progress in diversity and inclusion.” Ford received green marks for employment, procurement, minority dealer development and philanthropy. “At Ford, we are proud of our inclusive business practices, and we recognize diversity as strength,” said Ford spokeswoman Becky Sanch. “Diversity and inclusion strategies are an integral part of our business and we recognize how valuable they are to drive innovation, compete in the marketplace and serve the greater community,” Sanch said. Meanwhile, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), Nissan and Honda received green for employment while
Honda and Hyundai each received green respectively for procurement and minority dealer development. Green marks for philanthropy also went to General Motors, FCA, Honda, Hyundai and Volkswagen. While they didn’t fair as well as officials thought they may have, General Motors has continued to build a strong diversity track record. “Our diversity and inclusion efforts are something we take seriously,” said Leslie Gordon, senior manager of diversity communications at General Motors, who garnered green marks for employment, procurement, and philanthropy. General Motors works with more than 200 certified minority and womenowned businesses in the United States and Canada. In 1968, the company became the first automotive original equipment manufacturer to establish a formal supplier diversity program and, as a result, General Motors’ affirmation of their commitment is visible among minority and women-owned businesses where the company has spent more $70 billion since the program’s inception, according to GM officials. The scorecard awarded General Motors yellow for advertising, marketing and minority dealer development. “We plan to meet with Rev. Jackson and we are working closely with Rainbow PUSH on programs that speak to financial education,” said Gordon, who noted that important information that could have raised GM’s score did not make it into the scorecard. Also, Rainbow PUSH Coalition and Chevrolet—a General Motors company— are jointly hosting a series SEE FORD C2
The crushing weight of student loan debt hurts us all (NNPA)—As the cost of higher education has risen, students and their families have increasingly turned to student loans to cover costs. Today, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, 41 million consumers collectively owe more than $1.2 trillion in debt. What is less commonly known, however, is that millions of student loan borrowers are delinquent or in default on $175 billion in student loan balances. To frame it another way: more than one in four student-loan borrowers are either delinquent or in default. With that kind of red ink, the CFPB began a public inquiry that has now led to over 30,000 comments sharing the difficult struggles of student loan repayments, as well as remedies to cure this growing trend. Many of these struggles can be traced back to student loan servicers—the companies hired by the Department of Education to collect loan payments and, in theory, assist borrowers if they get into trouble. Consumers reported a litany of servicing woes to the CFPB, reminiscent of those that affected mortgages and foreclosures just a few years ago. Lost paperwork, misapplied payments and difficulty correcting errors are just a few of the unfortunate circumstances student borrowers and co-signers face. But one of the biggest problems facing
student loan borrowFor CFPB, this disers is servicers’ fail- Charlene Crowell turbing data point ure to help them prompts questions as avoid default and to how well or even if distress by enrolling borrowers knew all into any of several their available oprepayment plans tions. Comments that might help filed with CFPB sugthem out of a finangest that some sercial pinch. vicers provided eiFederal loans offer ther conflicting or inoptions to alter loan repayments. Deferring accurate information that denied the best payments due to unemployment or income- loan remedy. In some cases, the remedy ofbased repayments that adjust to each bor- fered increased loan costs. In other inrower’s capacity to repay have helped many stances, late payment processing often creborrowers to financially cope. Depending ated higher interest charges and late fees. upon the type of federal loan and employ“There are no consistent, market-wide fedment secured, some loans may be forgiven eral standards for student loan servicing and after years of prompt payment and public servicers generally have discretion to deterservice. mine policies related to many aspects of serEven with these options, 70 percent of fed- vicing operations,” states CFPB’s report. “A growing body of evidence suggests that eral direct loan borrowers in default actually met income requirements for lower rising levels of student loan indebtedness monthly payments attached to income- may also have had spillover effects on other driven repayment plans, according to a re- segments of the economy—potentially limport released by the General Accounting iting borrowers’ access to credit, diminishOffice earlier this year. Additional evidence ing savings, reducing homeownership, suggests that borrowers enrolled in income- threatening retirement security, and indriven repayment plans can avoid default hibiting borrowers from pursuing careers more easily compared to borrowers who do as healthcare providers and educators in underserved communities, or as ennot enroll.
Commentary
trepreneurs,” the report continued. To effectively alleviate student debt burdens, the CFPB along with the U.S. Treasury and Department of Education have together endorsed a set of principles to guide student loan servicing reforms. These principles would apply to both private and federal loans. In part these principles call for: •Publishing information about the practices of lenders and servicers, along with information on the performance of private and federal student loans; •Holding loan servicers accountable for violations of contractual agreements, federal regulations and consumer laws at both the state and federal levels; and •Directing servicers to provide accurate information to borrowers and provide effective student loan servicing. “Good student loan servicing is the key to successful loan repayment,” said Leslie Parrish, Deputy Director of Research at the Center for Responsible Lending. “No borrower should default because the servicer failed to give them the attention they deserved. The CFPB and Department of Education must work together to comprehensively reform student loan servicing.” (Charlene Crowell is a communications manager with the Center for Responsible Lending. She can be reached at Charlene.crowell@responsiblelending.org.)
C2 OCTOBER 28-NOVEMBER 3, 2015
The value of wise counsel BUSINESS
by Willie Jolley
George Curry Media Columnist
George Curry bringing back ‘Emerge’ online (GEORGE CURRY MEDIA)—WASHINGTON, D.C.—Former Emerge magazine Editor-in-Chief George E. Curry has announced that he is reviving the awardwinning publication online, possibly as early as mid-November. Curry resigned as editor-in-chief of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) News Service as of Oct. 2 and immediately directed his attention toward bringing back Emerge as an online publication. “For the most part, I have enjoyed my nine years as head of the NNPA News Service,” said Curry, who was with NNPA from 2001-2007 and 2012-2015. “I will always cherish the wonderful experiences I shared with most of the publishers, many of whom remain good friends. Now, I am looking ahead with excitement as I bring back Emerge magazine on a digital platform.” A GoFundMe drive has been inaugurated to obtain seed money to get the Emerge venture off the ground (http://www.gofundme.com/mg5qtr44). In addition, an EmergeOnLine Facebook page has been created (www.Facebook.com/emergenewsonline). On his GoFundMe page, Curry said, “EmergeNewsOnline.com will continue the uncompromising journalistic tradition of its namesake, combining a vibrant website that carries the latest national and international news each day with an in-depth monthly digital magazine component that both reports and analyzes news of interest to Blacks and other people of color.” Before taking over as editor-in-chief of Emerge: Black America’s Newsmagazine in 1993, Curry was New York bureau chief of the Chicago Tribune. He began his career as a reporter for Sports Illustrated magazine and worked as a reporter for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. He served as a Washington correspondent for the Chicago Tribune before accepting the New York assignment. Curry was editor of Emerge for the last seven of its 10-year existence. Less than six months after taking over Emerge in 1993, the Philadelphia Daily News described Emerge as “a feisty, slam-’em-tothe-wall publication for African Americans that’s quickly gaining a reputation for taking no prisoners in its search for truth.” The Washington Post observed that Emerge “gets better with each issue.” During his tenure at Emerge, Curry was elected president of the American Society of Magazine Editors, the first African American to hold that post. In 2000, he was awarded the University of Missouri’s Honor Medal for Distinguished Service in Journalism, an honor previously presented to such luminaries as Sir Winston Churchill and Walter Cronkite. After Black Entertainment Television was sold to Viacom, the magazine division of BET was placed in the hands of Vanguarde Media CEO Keith T. Clinkscales, who immediately closed Emerge in 2000 and replaced it with short-lived Savoy magazine. When Vanguarde filed for bankruptcy in 2004, it had killed seven Black publications. Writing in Time magazine when Emerge closed, Jack E. White said: “No matter what George Curry accomplishes during the remainder of his journalistic career, he will be remembered for one thing: he was the editor who slapped a portrait of Clarence Thomas wearing an Aunt Jemima-style handkerchief on a 1993 cover of Emerge magazine. That shocking image outraged Thomas’ supporters, of course, but it crystallized the disgust that many African Americans had begun to feel about the ultraconservative legal philosophy of the U.S. Supreme Court’s only black member.” Curry was initially hired at NNPA by Chairman John “Jake” Oliver, publisher of the Afro Newspapers, and the second time by NNPA Chairman Cloves Campbell, Jr., publisher of the Arizona Informant. While serving as editor of the NNPA News Service in 2003, Curry was named “Journalist of the Year” by the National Association of Black Journalists for his work improving the quality of journalism in the Black Press.
(GEORGE CURRY MEDIA)—Proverbs 11:14 teaches that there is safety in the multitude of wise counselors. As you work on your dreams and goals, seek out wise counsel. One of the wisest counselors to ever impact my life is Dennis Kimbro. He is one of the top experts on wealth creation in the world. He is also the leading authority on how to “Choose To Be Wealthy!” Professor Kimbro is the author of the best-selling books, Think & Grow Rich: A Black Choice and What Makes The Great Great. One of his newest books is the success manual titled, The Wealth Choice: Success Secrets Of Black Millionaires. I’m pleased that Dennis Kimbro, who is on the faculty at Clark Atlanta University School of Business Administration, is a longtime friend and powerful mentor. When my first book, It Only Takes A Minute To Change Your Life, was being launched, I knew nothing about promoting and marketing a book. I sought out Kimbro, who was already a best- selling author of numerous books. A mutual friend made the introduction. Professor Kimbro graciously took my call. His sage advice helped my first book become a national and international bestseller. He advised me to see myself in my mind’s eye—where I wanted to be in the future. “Brother Willie,” he said, “You must first think the thought before you can manifest it in your life. Keep in mind that it is first the inner, then the outer; first the thought, then the thing!” His success manual, The Wealth Choice: Success Secrets Of Black Millionaires, is based on a 7 year study of 1,000 of the wealthiest African Americans. The bookoffers great insight and sound advice about climbing the economic ladder, even when the odds appear to be stacked against you. Through stories, Kimbro reveals how business leaders, entrepreneurs, and celebrities such as T.D. Jakes, Bob Johnson
and Spike Lee developed a wealth-generating mindset. He presents what they did and didn’t learn about money early on and how they had to sacrifice to get to the top. He spotlights the power of discipline in managing their success. He also described how they took calculated risks when opportunities presented themselves. There are few SiriusXM
WILLIE JOLLEY radio show guests who have changed my life the way Professor Kimbro has. He is a friend, a mentor and a partner, who is changing the wealth of America. Here are Kimbro’s Laws of Wealth: Wealth begins in the mind but ends in the purse. The average millionaire reads a book each week. If you do not read, you do not grow. You must decide that you will not be poor. Until you make the choice to change, you will settle for the circumstances around you. Believe in yourself even when no one else does. You must have faith in yourself and in a God who will never leave you or forsake you. This is the difference that makes the big difference.
To thine own self be true. What is your unique gifting? What do you love to do? What is your area of excellence? What is your area of unfair competitive advantage? Focus on keeping score on what is truly important. The poor keep score with cars and clothes, the middle class keep score with degrees and titles, and the wealthy keep score by their bank account. Service and sales are the keys to creating wealth. Always look for ways to serve people, and then look for opportunities to sell what you serve. Own your own business. No matter what you do, you are in business for yourself. Create a reputation for excellence, whether you work for yourself or work for someone else. Become the CEO of Y.O.U. Inc. Make your money grow. Save at least 10 percent of what you earn, and invest it. Be a disciplined saver and a disciplined investor. You will see your money grow...Guaranteed! The books you read and the people you hang out with will determine who you will be and what you will be in terms of your wealth. It takes courage to become a person of wealth, so work on your thinking and work on yourself, and decide and commit and you will grow your wealth. (Willie Jolley is America’s #1 Inspirational/Motivational Speaker/Singer/Author! He is the author of several best-selling books and can be reached through his website, www.williejolley.com.)
When should you claim your Social Security The federal government allows retirees to start drawing Social Security as early as age 62, a feature that more than 40 percent of Americans take advantage of as they gladly draw from the system they spent a lifetime paying into. But many of those people may be making a mistake, says Reid Abedeen, a partner at Safeguard Investment Advisory Group, LLC (www.safeguardinvestment.com). “While you’re allowed to start drawing Social Security when you are 62, your monthly benefit will be reduced,” Abedeen says. “Although there might be personal reasons why someone needs to apply early, for most people it’s probably better to wait at least until their full retirement age.” Full retirement age is between 66 and 67 for most people in the workforce right now. Wait until you are 70, and the amount of your monthly check goes up even more. When it comes to Social Security, though, there’s a financial monkey wrench that can complicate sorting out your plan. Social Security rules can be complicated and even your spouse’s income and decisions can affect when the most opportune time is for you to draw benefits. “You really are going to want to coordinate what you do with what your spouse does, to make sure you are getting the highest amount possible,” Abedeen says. Here are a few points to remember if you’re considering claiming your Social Security at 62: •Reduction of benefit. Depending when your full retirement age is, you would see
about a 25 to 30 percent reduction in your benefit if you retire at 62. On the other hand, if you delay collecting past full retirement age, you can increase your benefit by 8 percent a year up until you are 70. •Life expectancy. One reason many people opt to draw the money early is they fear they will die before they get a chance to receive anything at all from Social Security. After a lifetime of paying into the system, they won’t get a penny out of it. They don’t want to feel cheated out of what they have coming to them. That’s certainly a concern, Abedeen says. But there’s an even greater concern than dying early, and that’s living too long. “Life expectancies are growing, but many people have not saved enough to see them through a retirement that could last two or three decades or longer,” he says. “If you live a long life, it could be crucial to you that the monthly Social Security payment be as large as possible.”
•Continuing to work. You could be in for a surprise if you plan to continue working after you begin drawing Social Security. If you haven’t waited until your full retirement age, there’s a limit on how much you can make. In 2015, that limit is $15,720, according to the Social Security Administration. If you go over that, you would be deducted $1 in benefits for every $2 you earn over the limits. (That changes in the year you reach full retirement age, and beginning with the month you are at full retirement age there is no limit on your earnings.) “A lot of factors come into play when you’re trying to decide when to begin drawing Social Security,” Abedeen says. “That’s especially true if you have a spouse and need to factor them into the equation. It’s worthwhile to seek professional advice so you can get the most favorable result.” (Reid Abedeen is a partner at Safeguard Investment Advisory Group, LLC www.safeguardinvestment.com.
Ford, GM score high diversity marks CONTINUED FROM C1
of workshops to educate African-American consumers on financial literacy and assist participants in developing concrete steps toward financial security. The workshops, Rainbow PUSH Money Matters sponsored by Chevrolet, are scheduled in Detroit, Atlanta and Chicago, with the goal of helping demystify the complexities of college financing, credit, and the
benefits of long-term money management. “For over forty years, the Rainbow PUSH Coalition has been committed to leveling the social and economic playing field in this country and around the world,” Jackson said.
Jackson continued: “The next phase of this movement will involve a comprehensive, national empowerment campaign aimed at helping to improve the quality of financial health. This exciting partnership with Chevrolet will help us get there.”
Watch the film on Black Friday CONTINUED FROM C1
Except for Black Enterprise Magazine and a few other Black-owned print media entities, not counting Black newspapers, the stories about Black entrepreneurs and others who are doing great things in the economic arena are buried, if they are in print at all. So who bears the responsibility of changing that reality? A long time ago I wrote, “The answer to media bias is ‘media by us.’” Ric Mathis has answered that call of responsibility, and I dare say obligation, to
produce a video that will not only enlighten us but also move us to action— move us to take responsibility for the financial resources with which we have been blessed. As we reflect on our answers to Black Friday’s questions, let us also ponder our economic condition and then commit to making appropriate change toward
true economic empowerment for Black people. See more information at www.TheFilmBlackFriday.c om (Jim Clingman, founder of the Greater Cincinnati African American Chamber of Commerce, is the nation’s most prolific writer on economic empowerment for Black people. He can be reached through his website, blackonomics.com.)
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
BUSINESS CALENDAR
Members’ Mixer
OCT. 28—The African American Chamber of Commerce of Western Pennsylvania will host its Members’ Mixer from 5-7 p.m. at the Laurel Highlands Council Boy Scouts of America, Flag Scout Center, 1275 Bedford Ave., Hill District. Chamber associate members, the Laurel Highlands Council Boy Scouts of America, will host this event that gives members an opportunity to network and gain contacts. Attendees are asked to bring their business cards to pass out. Members are asked to bring their pins. For more information, call 412-392-0610 or email information@aaccwp.com.
Entrepreneur Session for Seniors OCT. 28—The Seeds of Unity Entrepreneur Program of Sisters Saving Ourselves Now will host an Entrepreneur Know How Session for Seniors 55 and older at 6 p.m. at Greater Allen AME church, 3600 California Ave., North Side. Attendees will learn how to get focused, set an agenda and take action to hone their skills to develop a business. Limited space is available and registration is required. For more information, call 4122414436 or visit www.seedsofunity3600@gmail.c om.
Networking event OCT. 28—The National Association of Women Business Owners Greater Pittsburgh Chapter will host “The Good Life” Networking event from 6-8 p.m. at Savoy Restaurant, 2623 Penn Ave., Strip District. This is an opportunity to meet the organization’s new board members as well as returning ones, all while networking. For more information, email president@nawbogreaterpittsburgh. org.
Growth Workshop OCT. 29—Chatham University’s Center for Women’s Entrepreneurship will host MyBusiness Growth Workshop from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at Chatham University, 1 Woodland Rd., Shadyside. The topic will be “Website & Social Media for Growth with Google Pittsburgh.” Google’s Partner Technology Manager Timothy James will facilitate a hands-on workshop covering website design, optimization and social media development topics for established businesses. Attendees will learn how to access their website for effectiveness and how to get the most out of their presence and online options. They will also gain a greater understanding of their social media options and how to promote their business to a local audience as well as maintaining a global presence online. Registration is requested and a light breakfast will be provided. For more information, visit www.chatham.edu/cwe.
Technology Expo/ Conference NOV. 9—Pittsburgh Trade Show will host the Pittsburgh Technology Expo and Conference from 9 a.m.- 3p.m. at the Sheraton Station Square Hotel, 300 W. Station Square Dr., Station Square. This event is designed to provide opportunities for tech related companies, schools and institutions to generate business leads, network with business professionals, and showcase technology related products and services. Registration is required. For more information, call 724-271-8540 or email info@pittsburghtradeshow.com.
Women’s Business Breakfast Series NOV. 13—The Center for Women’s Entrepreneurship at Chatham University will host its Women Business Leaders Breakfast Series from 8-9:30 a.m. at Chatham University, James Laughlin Music Hall, Woodland Road, Shadyside. The topic will be “Women Turning the Tables: Artisan Entrepreneurship” with facilitator Kate Joyce, of Artist & Furniture Maker. Joyce will discuss the challenges she faced entering a then exclusively male trade union, the steps taken to establish her work and her art as a personal, artistic and viable business success in a traditionally male-dominated industry, as well as her quest for the critical training required to develop her talents. Registration is required. For more information, call Patricia Decker at 412-365-2779 or email pdecker@chatham.edu. (To have information on Business Calendar, send information at least two weeks in advance to: 315 E. Carson St., Pittsburgh, PA 15219; Fax: 412-481-1360 or e-mail: newsroom@newpittsburghcourier.com.)
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OCTOBER 28-NOVEMBER 3, 2015
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Josh Gibson Heritage Park to be reality by Michael B. Rose
Commercial Group and will be free and open to the public and will allow visitors to relive the history and culture of Negro League baseball in Pittsburgh. The target date for the park to open is spring 2017. Unfortunately, the $2.5 million price tag needed to finish it means that date is not set in stone. Angela Wheland, vice president of FedEx Ground donated $500,000 as part of their sponsorship by FedEx Ground for the construction of Josh Gibson Heritage Park. “Everyone at Fed Ex Ground is excited about this opportunity. It looks to be a beautiful park in a great location in the center of Pittsburgh for kids and tourists alike to learn about urban league baseball, the players and their great contributions to Pittsburgh and to baseball itself,” Wheland said.
For New Pittsburgh Courier
He stood 6’1, 220 pounds. He hit a staggering .354 average and had 962 homers throughout a 17-season career, with single-season highs of .517 and 84, and he belonged to Pittsburgh. Playing for both the Pittsburgh Crawfords and Homestead Grays, he helped them to win more than a dozen Negro Leagues titles combined. On October 14, in a Grand Concourse Board Room in Station Square, the Josh Gibson Foundation held a conference to display the layout for the new Josh Gibson Heritage Park. John Swiatek, managing director of innovation, sports and entertainment at GSP said of the project, “This is truly an exciting day for us… It’s really about Josh Gibson, the legacy he
BIG CHECK—Check presentation from left: Sean Gibson, Angela Wheland, and Sean Gibson’s daughter, Ashley Gibson-Foullah. the Negro Leagues and apologize for segregation. “Luckily the Pirates are winning now but before then, we had 20 losing seasons so the kids never saw a winning baseball team. So what we would teach is the history of baseball and you can’t tell it without the
Negro leagues,” said Sean Gibson, president of the Josh Gibson Foundation. Cool Papa Bell, Judy Johnson, Oscar Charleston, Satchel Paige, Cumberland Posey, Vic Harris and Buck Leonard will be among seven other Pittsburgh greats who will be remem-
bered with paintings that will provide biographical and historical information about the players and their teams. Each one will be carefully painted by artist Dino Guarino. Above their enshrinement will be steel girders in homage of the Grays’ origin as a steelwork-
ers’ team and for the city’s heritage as a steel town. The Crawford’s inherited their name from a Hill District bathhouse and recreation center but there are no plans to add any tubs. The Park will be located at Station Square on land donated by Forest City
ANGELA WHELAND left in our community, it’s about Negro League baseball and what it meant to our community but it is also about the Josh Gibson Foundation their service to the youth in this area.” Hall of Fame Negro League Election Committeeman Rob Ruck opened the speaking portion of the conference by explaining exactly what this park meant to him. “During the half century that baseball was divided by a color line Black America created its own parallel sporting world. During the 1930s and 40s Pittsburgh was the jewel in its crown.” Pittsburgh finally honored its rich tradition as far as Negro League accomplishments in 1988 when the Pirates became the first MLB team to celebrate and honor
JOHN SWIATEK Emcee
JOSH GIBSON PARK—Some of the art work showing how the Josh Gibson Park will look like. (Photos by J.L. Martello)
Josh Gibson, who played in the Negro Leagues from 1930-46 (the last three of which he played with a brain tumor) died of a stroke at the age of 35 in 1947, three months before Jackie Robinson broke Major League Baseball’s color barrier, but as a testament to his greatness and undeniable talent, was still enshrined in the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame in 1972. As president of the Josh Gibson Foundation, Gibson feels his great grandfather’s legacy is positioned to live on well past himself as he said “This is one piece of history that not only will Pittsburgh get to see but the whole nation will get to see when they come to Pittsburgh.”
24-year-old Penn Hills assistant youngest in state by Paige Mitchell For New Pittsburgh Courier
Akeeme Robinson, at just 24 year old, stands as a testament that dreams really can come true, as he currently serves as the Penn Hills High School freshman football coach. “I’ve been interested in football all my life. I started playing football at 5 years old, and growing up through the years I grew an extreme love for it. To me, it’s the greatest game that’s ever been created. I mean there are literally so many great things about the game. So many life lessons just by playing football,” Robinson said. After years of being a dedicated passionate volunteer to the Penn Hills Football staff, Robinson received a life changing phone call from the head football coach; John Peterman to pursue a career opportunity with the Penn Hills School District as the freshman football coach. Raised in Lincoln-
Larimer, a graduate of Central Catholic High School, he obtained his degree in Emergency Medicine from the University of Pittsburgh. He has allowed his upbringing to be his motivation to pursue greatness. “I’m from Larimer, a small neighborhood community infected with drugs and violence near East Liberty,” Robinson said. The Penn Hills freshman football team has had an incredible season so far, continuing to bring victories to the proud Red and Gold. This particular football season has been one for the record books, because the freshman football team has won more games this season than they have for 10 years. The Freshman have already beaten notable schools, with top programs within the WPIAL such as; Pine Richland, Bethel Park, Upper St. Clair, and Cannon MacMillan. “Winning a lot of games is doable but teaching
AKEEME ROBINSON kids there is more to life, that’s hard. And that’s what I strive to do as coach,” Robinson said. Robinson is not only setting statistics high within
his football team, but also setting the bar high for himself as the youngest coach in the state of Pennsylvania. “Being a football coach
at Penn Hills at 24 is absolutely a dream come true,” he said. “It’s so surreal especially knowing that I’m the youngest coach in the state. It’s actually at times makes me speechless. It’s a blessing! And nothing short of amazing! I plan to get everything that coaching has to offer, and the end game I don’t know what that is but I do know I’m going to enjoy the ride. My grandma told me before she passed away, What ever you do, be the best, and that’s what I intend to work towards doing, being the best.” Robinson has already accomplished such a compelling career as the freshman football coach. Will he be the youngest coach to win a championship? “People may think from the outside looking in that I’m all about winning football games, but what they aren’t understanding is the team you see on Friday evenings is nothing more than a by product of what we stand for,” he
said. “We have one goal, to win? Yes, just like every team, however I’m not asking them to be perfect on every play on I’m just asking them to play with the perfect effort and whistle. “My motto for life, the team, and any team that I coach for that matter is Win The Day! If we focus on winning the day in school, winning the day on the practice field and in the weight room, winning the day at home, winning the day on the job, winning the day in our relationships, winning the day in the way that we carry ourselves. Soon winning will become habitual, and being a winner will come natural.” Robinson’s journey as coach has already been an inspiration to not only his football team but also the entire community, and those around him. Robinson is not only breaking records and statistics on and off the field but also changing the mold of what a leader and role model is.
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FUTURE HALL OF FAMERS—Pittsburgh area native, and Steelers Super Bowl champion Mike Logan, center, presents the Pittsburgh City League Junior Hall of Fame awards to the current City League outstanding student athletes. All of whom are tops in their class. (Photos by Gail Manker)
Connie Hawkins league Hall of Famers HALL OF FAMERS— Legendary track and field coach and Slippery Rock University Cross Country Hall of Famer Fred Lucas with new City League Hall of Fame inductee Kaetlyn Brown.
Overtime by Bill Neal
Pittsburgh City League High School All-Sports Hall For New Pittsburgh Courier of Fame Awards Inductions. : 1 0 — E X C U S E And guess what? The best is ME…EXCUSE ME…AH, yet to come. EXCUSE ME…I have a :05—And don’t forget question. Is Heath Miller on when you’re talking about the Steelers team? I’m just the City League’s Hall of askin’. I mean the people Fame, DO - NOT- FORGET want to know. OMG, can ya the tremendous economic just throw the ball to the value it brings to the City. tight end and pick up the Food, drinks, parking, secuyard you need for first rity, t-shirts, caps, rings, down? Hell, when he stands banners, copies, talent, on up, he’s two yards deep! and on and on and on. :09—And while we’re at it, There’s way more to the fuif you’re throwing the ball to ture of the City League Hall BILL NEAL a back out of the backfield, than meets the eye. please let it be the one with :04—This just great hands. That would be Bell, not in…“President Hillary Clinton” just kicked Williams. And yes, I am at my the entire Republican party’s collective spot…where I go when the team is on the butts. road…but of course if I tell ya, I’m going to :03—Speaking of great quarterbacks, and have to kill ya. not Landry Jones (I told you they would :08—K.C. and the Mets will do business scout him in the week before the game and and soon but it’s not gonna end like you it would be different.) Anyway, here’s your think. I know most of you want the Mets to Top 10 Greatest Quarterbacks of All Time. win the brass ring, but the World Series Challenge it if you want, but you’ll be goes to Kansas City. (Keep in mind how- wrong I assure you. In any event, text me ever that I had the Cubs playing Toronto!!!) if you must 412-628-4856. #10 Bart Starr, :07—Big Ben will play against Cincinnati #9 Joe “Willie” Namath, #8 John Elway, and that my friend you can take to the #7 Doug Williams, #6 Troy Aikman, #5 bank. Nothing will keep him out of this Brett Farve, #4 Payton Manning, #3 Tom one. Brady, #2 Joe Montana, #1 Terry Brad:06—OK, so by now you’ve heard all the shaw (that’s right I said it! Count the rings details. Sell-out crowd 300 plus, the leg- baby!!!) ends…Oh the legends! B.B. Flenory, Mike :02—I don’t know about the rest of you, Logan, Jacquet Bazemore, Buddy Allie, but when I go back to college for whatever Kevin Parker, Rayco Saunders, Darrell degree, I’m going to the University of Porter, Kirk Bruce, Jennifer Bruce and of Louisville for reasons clearly evidenced. course the legendary Franco Harris. And They’ve got “Hookers 101.” That’s a class we’re not even talking about the “20” Hall you have to take. of Famers. Man, IT - DOES - NOT - GET :01—The NBA season is here!!!!!!!!!! Kobe ANY - BETTER -THAN - THIS!!! Of let’s do this. course, I am talking about the 2nd Annual :00—GAME OVER
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CONNIE HAWKINS LEAGUE—Four new members were inducted into the Connie Hawkins Summer League Hall of Fame. Top from left: Papa Banks, and Stan Mahon. Bottom from left: Henri Chatman and Coach Roland Slade.
Inside Conditions—Love the one you’re with by Aubrey Bruce
dinals team armed with a smothering defense and a For New Pittsburgh Courier Madden-like, video game What a difference a week scoring, lights out offense. makes. A few folks were But against the Chiefs the breathing a sigh of relief crown of victory Jones when Michael “the terriwore when he rode into ble” Vick, the deposed and Arrowhead on his proud injured third string quarwhite stallion shortly beterback of the Pittsburgh fore the crack of noon on Steelers was replaced by Sunday was transformed Landry Jones. into goat horns and a Jones was the latest “redusty mule when the lief pitcher” to step in for Steelers exited Kansas Pittsburgh Steelers QB City under the shadow of Ben Roethlisberger who defeat. suffered a knee injury on When Jones was assessSeptember 27, against ing his performance the St. Louis Rams in St. against the Chefs he said, Louis. The Steelers had “I don’t think I played very AUBREY BRUCE been juggling quarterwell just from the initial backs until the Steelers found the perfeeling. I gotta make more plays out fect replacement for Mike “the there. I can’t turn the ball over. There dreaded” Vick, in the person of the were so many opportunities to go out Steelers three year understudy, Landry there and win that game. I threw two Jones. picks, fumbled one. You can’t win when After all, Mr. Jones was a three year you play like that.” Jones has had three student of Steelers Offensive Coordinayears to prepare, not less than three tor Todd Haley and unlike Vick he could months. That is why he is and has been approach the game from a more “cerethe 3rd string quarterback. bral” perspective based on the fact that Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin also he was a “smart quarterback” and could addressed turnovers. “They [the Chiefs] do the small things like audible at the got turnovers. We gotta maintain better line of scrimmage improvise just based possession of the ball if we want to on being in the Steelers system for an have an opportunity to win under these extended period of time. circumstances. And then obviously we When Mike Vick was ineffective and gotta get some [turnovers]. When you was injured in the Steelers 25-13 victory don’t do either you got a chance to against the Arizona Cardinals and Jones lose.” was forced to replace him early in the No matter if the Steelers win or lose, third quarter, the legend of Landry there will be no quarterback controversy Jones was born. When Jones completed a in Pittsburgh because when and if the short over the middle pass to Martavis Steelers starting quarterback Ben Bryant who then took it to the house to Roethlisberger is sidelined or injured, preserve the Steelers victory, the legend after his convalescence there will conof Landry Jones was cemented into the tinue to be room for only one quarterlore of the Pittsburgh Steelers, or so we back to sit at the helm of the Pittsburgh thought. Steelers offense. That person is “Big” There was no way that Jones would Ben Roethlisberger. lose against the putrid 1-5 KC Chiefs (Aubrey Bruce can be reached at: even if the game were being played in abruce@newpittsburghcourier.com or 412-583Kansas City. Why? Here’s why. Mr. Jones 6741. He is also a contributing columnist for urhad just brought the Steelers back from banmediatoday.com. Follow him on Twitthe abyss of mediocrity to defeat a Carter@ultrascribe.)
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Help Wanted
Bids/Proposals
BOROUGH MANAGER
The Borough of Wilkinsburg is seeking an experienced Borough Manager. For more information about the position and how to apply, see the Boroughʼs website, www.wilkins burgpa.gov under “Jobs”.
POSITIONS AVAILABLE
Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission (SPC) has the following full time positions available: Water Resource Planner Transportation Modeling Data Analyst Transportation Safety Planner / Civil Engineer SPC offers a competitive salary and excellent benefit package. Please visit www.spcregion.org for more information. EEO/AA/M/F/Vet/Disability Employer
CONTRACT DRIVERS
Local Contract Drivers needed in Pittsburgh. Jumpstart/fuel deliveries/tire changes. Vehicle required, no experience necessary Call 267-270-5225
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE/ MEDIA SALES
WPXI-TV (Cox Media Group) seeks a motivated and energetic Account Executive who thrives on multi-platform sales and new business development. Outstanding communication and presentation skills along with strong computer literacy. Outstanding compensation and benefits package. To join a great team in a great city, call Bob Liga, Local Sales Manager at 412-237-1160 or email bliga@wpxi.com EOE LEGAL ADVERTISING Legal Notices
Estate Notices
Letters have been granted on the estate of each of the following decedents to the personal representative named who request all persons having claims against the estate of the decedent to make known the same in writing to him or his attorney, and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment to him without delay:
Estate of ROSSER, FRANK S., deceased of Coraopolis, Pennsylvania, No. 02-15-05159, John F. Rosser, 49 Fawnvue Drive, McKees Rocks, PA 15136 or to Rosemary L. Corsetti, Esquire, Buchananan, Ingersoll & Rooney, PC, One Oxford Centre, 20th Floor, 301 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.
Estate of McCLAFFERTY, MARGARET A., deceased of McCandless Township, No. 05272 of 2015, Roberta A. Shirey, Exec., 86 Park Place East, Midland, PA 15059 or to Michael J. Saldamarco, Esq., Ste 100, 908 Perry Hwy., Pittsburgh, PA 15229.
Estate of WINDSOR JR., ALBERT J., deceased of Allegheny County, No. 02-1504091, Deborah Windsor c/o Todd J. Hollis, Esquire or to Todd J. Hollis, Esquire, 428 Forbes Ave., Suite 505, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.
LEGAL ADVERTISING Bids/Proposals
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Sealed proposals will be received by the Municipality of Penn Hills, Pennsylvania, until 10:30 A.M. and will be publicly opened ontHUR4SDAY, November 19, 2015 at 10:30 A.M., prevailing time, at the Municipal Building, 12245 Frankstown Road, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15235, for the furnishing of all labor and material as required for: “William McKinley Fencing and Recreation Improvement Project” Specifications may be obtained at the Purchasing Office, Room 213 for a nonrefundable fee of $25.00. Potential bidders with hearing impairment requiring information on this project can call the State Relay Office at 1-800-654-5984 to contact the Municipality. Proposal must be on Standard Proposal Forms in the manner therein and be enclosed in a sealed envelope bearing the name and address of the bidder on the outside, addressed to the Purchasing Office and marked: “William McKinley fencing and Recreation Improvement Project” Proposal must be accompanied by a certified check drawn upon a National or State Bank and made payable without conditions to the Municipality of Penn hills, in an amount not less than ten (10%) percent of the proposal, or a bid bond, and be delivered to the place hand hour named. The Municipality reserves the right to reject any or all proposals. Attention is called to the Federal requirements regarding employment, non-discrimination, safety, and State regulations. The Municipality reserves the right to terminate any contract resulting from this solicitation within thirty (30) days written notice. Mohammed F. Rayan Municipal Manager
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HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) FOR Internet Services RFP #200-25-15
The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request proposals from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): Internet Services RFP #200-25-15 The documents will be available no later than Oct. 19, 2015 and signed, sealed proposals will be accepted until 10:00 A.M., Nov. 6, 2015 at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street, 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Parties or individuals interested may obtain information from: Mr. Kim Detrick – Procurement Director/Contracting Officer Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 2nd Floor, Suite 200 100 Ross Street Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-456-5116, Option 1 or by visiting the Business Opportunities section of www.hacp.org A pre bid meeting will be held: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 100 Ross Street, 2nd Floor Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 October 29, 2015 11:00 A.M. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation. HACPʼs has revised their website. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and login, in order to view and download IFB/RFPs documentation. Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.
SECTION 000100 ADVERTISEMENT FOR SUBCONTRACTOR BIDS
Subcontractor bids shall be accepted until 2:00 p.m., local prevailing time, Monday November 9, 2015, for the following Project: Hillcrest Senior Residences 2920 Brownsville Road Pittsburgh, PA 15227 Bids shall be addressed to and deposited with Ms. Colleen Wilderman at the offices of the Construction Manager, Sota Construction Services, Inc., 80 Union Avenue, Pittsburgh (Bellevue), PA 15202: Phone (412) 766-4630. Bids will be privately opened and awarded. Fax and/or e-mail bids will be accepted. Submit faxes to (412)7664634 to the attention of Colleen Wilderman. Submit e-mail bids to cwilderman@sotaconstruction.com. No bidder may withdraw his bid for a period of sixty (60) days after the bid date. A Prebid Conference will be held at the site on Friday, October 30, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. Project Manual and Drawings for bidding purposes will be accessed through any of the following methods: (1) Through Sota Construction Services BidPlanroom service. Access project “Hillcrest Senior Residences.” For bidders without an existing BidPlanroom account, please request access via email to cwilder man@sotaconstruction.com (2) In electronic (.PDF) file format on CD (with minimum 4 hoursʼ notice) at the offices of Sota Construction Services, Inc. Please request CD from Colleen Wilderman at 412-766-4630 or cwilderman@sotacontruction.com (3) Pittsburgh Builderʼs Exchange, 1813 N. Franklin Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15233, (412) 922-4200 (4) For Purchase through Print-OStat, 230 Executive Drive, Suite 108, Cranberry Township, PA 16066, Phone: (724) 742-9811 Notice is given that the Project is subject to applicable provisions of the Pennsylvania Prevailing Wage Act, Act of August 15, 1961, P.L. 987, as amended and supplemented, and appropriate prevailing minimum wage rates as promulgated under provisions of said Act must be paid by contractors in connection with performance of the work. Successful bidders will be required to submit a Minority and Women – Owned Business Enterprise (M/WBE) Plan. All Subcontractors are expected to achieve or exceed the Ownerʼs minimum standard of 30 % MBE, 10% WBE and 10% Section 3. The Project Schedule is: Start February 1, 2016, Completion March 30, 2017. The Contractor reserves the right to waive any informalities in bids, or to reject and or all bids.
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DOCUMENT 00030-AA ADVERTISEMENT ANNOUNCEMENT ALLEGHENY COUNTY AIRPORT AUTHORITY Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Separate and sealed Proposals will be received at the Office of the Senior Manager of Procurement, Allegheny County Airport Authority, Department of Procurement, Pittsburgh International Airport, Landside Terminal, 4th Floor Mezz, P.O. Box 12370, Pittsburgh, PA 15231-0370 until 1:00 P.M. prevailing local time, NOVEMBER 18, 2015, and bids will be publicly opened and read by the Airport Authority in Conference Room A, Pittsburgh International Airport, Landside Terminal, 4th Floor Mezz, P.O. Box 12370, Pittsburgh, PA 15231-0370, one half hour later, for the following: ALLEGHENY COUNTY AIRPORT AUTHORITY PROJECT NUMBER 40G3-15 (GENERAL) MAIN PARKING LOT REHABILITATION AT ALLEGHENY COUNTY AIRPORT WEST MIFFLIN A pre-bid conference will be held in the Administration Building, at Allegheny County Airport, at 10:00 a.m., on OCTOBER 29, 2015. Plans, specifications and bid documents for the above referenced project will be available for purchase, at Pittsburgh International Airport. Attention is called to the fact that not less than the minimum salaries and wages, as determined by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, must be paid on these projects. Proposals must be made on the Authorityʼs form and in accordance with the Plans and Specifications and the “Instructions to Bidders”ʼ. The non-refundable charge for the Bid Documents and a Disk containing the Plans and Specifications is $150.00; mailing can be arranged for an additional $75.00 charge. This project has DBE participation goals; DBE firms must be certified with the Pennsylvania Unified Certification Program) (PA UCP). Firms must be certified prior to award of contract. A searchable database of DBE firms can be found on the PA UCP web site: http://www.paucp.com The Airport Authority reserves the right to reject any and all bids or waive any informalities in the bidding. No bidder may withdraw his bid for a period of sixty [60] days after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids. To view a complete advertisement, which is also included in the bidding documents visit www.flypittsburgh.com under doing business with us – business opportunities or call 412-472-3543 or 412472-3779. Christina A. Cassotis Chief Executive Officer ALLEGHENY COUNTY AIRPORT AUTHORITY
THE BOARD OF PUBLIC EDUCATION OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PITTSBURGH
Sealed bids will be received in the Office Of The Chief Operations Officer, Room 251, Administration Building, 341 South Bellefield Avenue until 11:00 A.M. prevailing time, TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2015 and will be opened at the same hour for the purchase of the following equipment and supplies: REFUSE CONTAINER SERVICE General Information regarding bids may be obtained at the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Service Center, 1305 Muriel Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15203. The bid documents are available on the School Districtʼs Purchasing web site at: http://www.pghboe.net/pps/site/d efault.asp Click on Bid Opportunities under Quick Links. The Board of Public Education reserves the right to reject any and all bids, or select a single item from any bid. Leon Webb Purchasing Agent We are an equal rights and opportunity school district
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ADVERTISEMENT
Sealed bid proposals are hereby solicited for the Community College of Allegheny County, 800 Allegheny Avenue, Pittsburgh PA 15233 (412.237.3020) on the following items: Bid Proposal No. 952 Printing Community Education Schedules Proposals will be received at the Purchasing Department until 2:00 P.M. Prevailing Time on Tuesday, November 10, 2015 at which time they will be publicly opened. Any proposals received after this deadline will be considered as a “late bid” and will be returned unopened to the offerer. The CCAC Purchasing Department is now publishing all bids via the CCAC website at h t t p s : / / w w w. c c a c . e d u / B i d RFP_Opportunities.aspx It will be each vendorʼs responsibility to monitor the bid activity within the given website (“Bid and RFP Opportunities”) and ensure compliance with all applicable bid documents inclusive of any issued addenda. Failure to incorporate any applicable addenda in the final submittal may result in the rejection of your bid. Proposals may require Bid Bonds, Performance Bonds, Payment Bonds, and Surety as dictated by the specifications. No bidder may withdraw his bid for a period of ninety (90) days after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids. The Board of Trustees reserves the right to reject any and all bids. The Community College of Allegheny County is an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and encourages bids from Minority/Disadvantaged owned businesses.
OFFICIAL ADVERTISEMENT THE BOARD OF PUBLIC EDUCATION of the SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PITTSBURGH
Sealed proposals shall be deposited at the Administration Building, Room 251, 341 South Bellefield Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pa., 15213, on November 17, 2015, until 2:00 p.m., local prevailing time for: Loading Dock Rehabilitation 1305 Muriel Street, Pgh., Pa., 15203 Rehabilitation of Structural Slab General, Plumbing, Mechanical and Electrical Primes Extraordinary Electrical Repairs Various Locations Electrical Prime Security System Maintenance Various Locations Electrical Prime Project Manual and Drawings will be available for purchase on October 19, 2015 at Modern Reproductions (412488-7700) 127 McKean Street, Pittsburgh, Pa., 15219 between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. The cost of the Project Manual Documents is nonrefundable. Project details and dates are described in each project manual.
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR UNDERGROUND GAS LINE DETECTION AND CERTIFICATION SERVICES IFB#300-30-15
The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request proposals from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): UNDERGROUND GAS LINE DETECTION AND CERTIFICATION SERVICES IFB#300-30-15 The documents will be available no later than October 19, 2015 and signed, sealed bids will be accepted until 1:00 P.M., November 6, 2015 at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, at which time they will be opened and read aloud. Parties or individuals interested in responding may download a copy of the Invitation for Bid from the Business Opportunities page of www.HACP.org. Questions or inquires should be directed to: Kim Detrick Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 2nd Floor, Suite 200 100 Ross Street Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-456-5116 Opt 1 A pre bid meeting will be held: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Dept. 100 Ross Street 2nd. Fl. Ste. 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15213 Thursday, October 29, 2015 1:00 P.M. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation. HACPʼs has revised their website. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and login, in order to view and download IFB/RFPs documentation. Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.
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On Sale Wednesdays WESTERN AREA: CRAFTON BEVERAGE CRAFTON/INGRAM SHOPPING CENTER GIANT EAGLE CRAFTON/INGRAM SHOPPING CENTER SHEETZ #353 5400 CAMPBELL’S RUN RD SHOP N’ SAVE #1686 2103 NOBLESTOWN RD SAFRANS SUPER MKT 429 WALNUT ST GIANT EAGLE #74 PARKWAY CENTER MALL SOUTHERN AREA: KEN’S 216 BELTZHOOVER AVE NELSON’S 92 SYLVANIA AVE GIANT EAGLE #61 2021 WHARTON AVE COGO’S 2400 EAST CARSON ST COGO’S 925 EAST CARSON ST DAILY MART 1125 ARLINGTON AVE SHOP N SAVE CARRICK SOUTH EASTERN AREA: SUPER STOP 403 KENMAWR AVE CARL’S CAFE 337 FIFTH AVE COMET NEWS 540 BRADDOCK AVE PUFFS DISCOUNT TOBACCO 1722 GREENSBUR AVE A-PLUS SUNOCO 7403 WASHINGTON ST COGO’S 1050 BRINTON RD COGO’S 2003 S BRADDOCK AVE EDGEWOOD EXPRESS 253 EDGEWOOD AVE BRAD EXPRESS 1101 S BRADDOCK AVE GIANT EAGLE #619 1705 S. BRADDOCK AVE CVS 7406 CHURCH ST HANINI MARKET 1105 SWISSVALE AVE DUKE’S SUNOCO 825 DUQUESNE BLVD 7-11 818 N. DUQUESNE BLVD
Look for our red box WHOLE FOODS MARKET 5880 CENTRE AVE AMTRACK STATION LIBERTY AVE & GRANT ST CITY COUNTY BUILDING 420 GRANT ST CCAC—HOMEWOOD BRANCH HOMEWOOD & BRUSHTON AVE YMCA 11817 FRANKSTOWN RD EAST LIBERTY EBA EAST BUSWAY KINGSLEY ASSOCIATION 6435 FRANKSTOWN AVE. WILKINSBURG EBA EAST BUSWAY
GIANT EAGLE #6379 420 EAST WATERFRONT DR GIANT EAGLE—MCKEESPORT 3812 O’NEILL BLVD J & S FOOD MART 625 W GRANT AVE RITE AID PHARMACY 100 WILLIAM MARKS DR GIANT EAGLE 1356 HOFFMAN BLVD BP GAS STATION LYSLE & WALNUT DS FOODMART 929 UNION ST RITE AID PHARMACY 725 LYSLE BLVD CHARLIE’S CORNER STORE 500 LOCUST ST NEIGHBORHOOD DOLLAR 333 5TH AVE GIANT EAGLE #38 1901 MURRAY AVE JACK’S E 8TH AVE EASTERN AREA: WATERWORKS GIANT EAGLE #72 1005 FREEPORT RD— DIVINE HAIR STUDIO 10 DUFF RD GIANT EAGLE 9001 FRANKSTOWN RD GIANT EAGLE #78 230 RODI RD BP GAS STATION 11835 FRANKSTOWN RD THE SPOT 11675 FRANKSTOWN RD MASH MINI MART 4341 OLD WM. PENN HWY GIANT EAGLE #60 4004 MONROEVILLE BLVD GIANT EAGLE #76 AMES PLAZA, ROUTE 22 GET IT QUICK 500 GARDEN CITY JT RIB SHACK 1 RAQUET LANE DESTINY’S HAIR SALON 408 RODI RD PUFF’S DISCOUNT TOBACCO 10991 FRANKSTOWN RD MIKE’S SPOT 815 UNIVERSAL RD CREAMY CREATIONS 144B JEFFERSON RD SHOP N SAVE 3335 WILLIAM PENN HWY SHEETZ 3457 WILLIAM PENN HWY GETGO 10525 FRANKSTOWN RD CVS PHARMACY 10600 FRANKSTOWN RD SHELL OIL 7619 BAUM BLVD KIWI SUNOCO FRANKSTOWN AVE WILLIAM PENN SMOKE SHOP II 132 NORTH HIGHLAND AVE MARATHON GAS 6680 FRANKSTOWN AVE PENN AIKEN DAIRY 5401 PENN AVE GIANT EAGLE #17 6320 SHAKESPEARE ST HOMEWOOD MARKET 7201 FRANKSTOWN AVE SALIK HARDWARE 607 NORTH HOMEWOOD AVE NEGLEY A PLUS 123 NORTH NEGLEY AVE BAKER’S 7203 HAMILTON & STERRETT AVES DORSEY’S RECORDS 7614 FRANKSTOWN AVE HOSPITAL CORNER 4201 PENN AVE PEOPLES GROCERY
5136 PENN AVE A&M MARKET 5224 PENN AVE A-PLUS MINI MART 7701 PENN AVE WOOD & PENN 902 WOOD ST AL’S FISH & CHICKEN 1000 PENN AVE SAVE A LOT 725 ROSS AVE CVS PHARMACY 520 PENN AVE GETGO 408 PENN AVE QUICK STOP LIBERTY 3349 LIBERTY AVE K-2 CONVENIENT STORE 4900 PENN AVE SHUR SAVE 4120 MAIN ST SHELL GAS 6701 FRANKSTOWN RD UNIMART 5724 ELLSWORTH AVE GIANT EAGLE #77 254 YOST BLVD PUFF’S DISCOUNT TOBACCO 234 YOST BLVD SPEEDY MART 2131 ARDMORE BLVD SQUIRREL HILL NEWS 5804 FORBES AVE MURRAY AVE. NEWS 2024 MURRAY AVE GIANT EAGLE MURRAY AVE & LORETTA ST DISCOUNT TOBACCO & NEWS 1929 MURRAY AVE UNIVERSITY OF PGH BOOKSTORE 4000 5TH AVE DANA’S BAKERY 720 N. HOMEWOOD AVE DA STORE 606 & 1/2 N. HOMEWOOD AVE FLOSSYS HAIR DESIGNS 5927 PENN AVE BONUS TIRE SERVICE 4349 VERONA RD KANDY CAFE 4291 VERONA RD GIANT EAGLE SHADYSIDE 550 CENTRE AVE MARATHON GAS 4010 PENN AVE STANTON NEGLEY DRUG 804 N. NEGLEY AVE RON’S CORNER DRUG MT. CARMEL RD CENTRAL AREA: GET GO #64 4924 BAUM BLVD SCHWARTZ MARKET 1901 5TH AVE SMOKER FRIENDLY 906 5TH AVE
ESTER’S SNAX FEDERAL BUILDING, 2ND FL SMITHFIELD NEWS 115 SMITHFIELD ST CITY NEWS & ARCADE 422 WOOD ST FABER COE & GREGG 500 GRANT ST FABER COE & GREGG FIFTH AVE. PLACE FABER COE & GREGG 600 GRANT ST NIELSEN’S STORES #09 301 GRANT ST— ONE OXFORD CENTER NIELSEN’S STORES #13 437 SEVENTH AVE— KOPPERS BUILDING 9TH & PENN NEWS-NUMBERS 136 PENN AVE EXTRA EXTRA NEWS 413 SEVENTH AVE NEAL NEWS 400 CHERRY WAY CVS PHARMACY #4120 610-612 WOOD ST C&C NEWS 2 PPG PLACE NEWSTAND SIXTH & WOOD ONE STOP 300 SIXTH & WOOD EDDIE’S SNACKS 262 5TH AVE BIG DADDY
465 FORBES AVE 711 SMITHFIELD 420 SMITHFIELD ST NORTHERN AREA: W. N. GROCERY 1018 NORTH AVE. NORTH SIDE BEER & BEVERAGE 1304 FEDERAL ST ALLEGHENY GIFT SHOP— AGH HOSPITAL 320 EAST NORTH AVE GIANT EAGLE #652 318 CEDAR AVE 7-11 #158 1001 WESTERN AVE RICHEY’S BARBER SHOP 1207 N. FRANKLIN ST QUIK-IT 820 PENNSYLVANIA AVE RITE AID #3459 802 PENNSYLVANIA AVE MARSHALL SHELL 1500 SPRING GARDEN AVE SWINKO’S MARKET 2535 PERYSVILLE AVE MERCY STREET EXPRESS 6 MERCY ST HARV’S EXXON 2501 BRIGHTON RD QUICK SCHWARTZ 3235 BRIGHTON RD HANINI MARKET 3245 BRIGHTON RD
HILL DISTRICT: WONG’S MARKET 2170 CENTRE AVE ANN’S MARKET 2316 WEBSTER AVE A-PLUS MINI MART 2350 CENTRE AVE UJAMMA BOUTIQUE 1901 CENTRE AVE K LEROY IRVIS TOWERS 715 MERCER ST SHOP & SAVE SUPERMARKET 1850 CENTRE AVE ABE’S MARKET 1860 CENTRE AVE WYLIE TOBACCO 2152 WYLIE AVE DOWNTOWN: KWIK-E-MART 212-10TH ST 7-11 #167 643 LIBERTY AVE 7-11 #165 SIXTH & PENN AVE 7-11 #170 429 WOOD ST
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