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NOVEMBER 14-20, 2018

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Will any Black candidates vie to become Braddock’s next mayor?

by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer

John Fetterman drew national attention as the Ivy-league-educated progressive who returned to the Rust Belt to try to reinvigorate Braddock as its mayor. And following his Nov. 6 victory, Lt. Governor-Elect Fetterman’s story will, no doubt, get even

Fetterman wins election, will become Lt. Governor in January bigger.

But what does it mean for Braddock? Fetterman cast a big shadow. And now that he has announced his intention to remain in Braddock rather than take up residency in the Lt. Gov-

ernor’s mansion, is there a candidate who can emerge from that shadow and continue moving the borough forward as the next mayor, perhaps another vibrant African American in the mold of Mon Valley state

Rep. Austin Davis and Representative-Elect Summer Lee? Braddock Council President Tina Doose, who gained regional attention during the fight to remove abusive school police and administrators from the Woodland Hill School District, said council is acceptSEE BRADDOCK A4

Save a life

JAMES TAYLOR Class of 2017

IT’S BACK!

Nominations accepted for Courier’s ‘Men of Excellence Class of 2019’ told the Courier in an exclusive interview, Nov. 13.

Musgrove was one of Make no bones about it— nearly 50 Black men whom Pittsburgh is a city full of were honored at the Courientrepreneurs, profession- er’s “Men of Excellence” cerals, and go-getters.

Victor Musgrove checks all three of those boxes.

Along busy Smithfield Street in Downtown Pittsburgh sits V.I.P. Styles. Calling it simply a barbershop is doing it an injustice.

It’s not only where many Pittsburgh African American boys and men get the fresh cut, it’s where the boys see men—Black men—working hard, making a VICTOR MUSGROVE, with his “Men of Exrespectable liv- cellence” award from 2017. (Photo by J.L. ing, providing for Martello) themselves and emony, Dec. 13, at the Fairtheir family.

Musgrove began V.I.P. mont Hotel, Downtown.

And the Courier is now Styles in 2004 on Forbes Avenue, moving the loca- looking to crown our next tion to 413 Smithfield St. “Men of Excellence” class, in 2006. As the owner, he is the Class of 2019! A recepresponsible for five barbers tion honoring the men will and two natural hair styl- be held this February at ists. Musgrove, a 1990 Penn the Fairmont Hotel, and all Hills High School graduate, that’s needed now are your was named as a New Pitts- nominations. If you know burgh Courier “Man of Ex- an African American man cellence” last year for his who should be deserving positive contributions to of such a distinctive honor the Pittsburgh community. as a New Pittsburgh Couri“At first, I was like, ‘Wow, er “Man of Excellence,” fill there are so many other peo- out a nomination form at ple more deserving of this our website, www.newpittsaward than me,’ but then I burghcourieronline.com. had people remind me that Deadline to submit nomiI do a lot for the communi- nations is Dec. 3, 2018, at ty and I shouldn’t overlook SEE EXCELLENCE A5 what I’ve done,” Musgrove Courier Staff Writer

by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer

Before patrolling in volatile combat areas, U.S. military personnel will often loosely apply CATs, or combat application tourniquets, to their arms and legs, so in the event they sustain an injury with life-threatening blood loss, they can tighten it up and survive to get to medical professionals.

Though Pittsburgh is not Kandahar, Hammonds Initiative founder Leonard Hammonds II, himself a

“I’ve seen people who succumbed to violence and in some instances—if someone nearby knew what to do—they might have survived. Bystanders, witnesses—they’re really the first responders.”

LEONARD HAMMONDS II

SEE BLEED A4

‘HOP’ KENDRICK Legacy Honoree Class of 2017

by Rob Taylor Jr.

Learn how to ‘Stop The Bleed’

Marine veteran, knows that potentially deadly violence can erupt in and around some neighborhoods at any time—and in some cases, having the training to stop a victim’s bleeding before first responders arrive can save lives. Thus, on Oct. 13, he brought that training to the Greater Valley Community Center in Braddock with a Stop The Bleed workshop led by a team from Al-

ANTHONY HAMLET Class of 2017

CAROL HOWZE, right, learns from Leonard Hammonds II the proper way to apply a tourniquet, which can prevent excessive bleeding from a wound. (Photo by Dayna Delgado)

Historic Centre Avenue YMCA to undergo $7 million renovation

by Rob Taylor Jr.

To this day, African AmerIt’s on the exclusive, elite ican men list of the City of Pittsrent rooms burgh’s “historic designaat the Centions.” tre Avenue It’s a Hill District landY—and in mark, an African American the not too institution. distant fuIt’s the Centre Avenue ture, those YMCA building, a storied rooms—and structure built in 1922 the entire that, 94 years later, is still building— standing. will undergo Known as the first YMCA a complete in the city for African Amerrenovation. ican men, it became so AARON GIBSON, regional executive director of YMCA ofmuch more—it was the cen- the YMCA, which includes the Centre Avenue ficials held terpiece of sports and recre- YMCA. (Photo by J.L. Martello) a communiation for African Americans ty meeting here, even the likes of boxing this YMCA when he would at the Grayson Center in great Joe Louis would train play baseball in Pittsburgh. the Hill District, Oct. 25, in a gym in the basement. Dizzy Gillespie, the famed outlining plans to partner Jackie Robinson roomed at trumpeter, did the same. with ACTION-Housing in a Courier Staff Writer

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ing, which does housing and provides support to individuals who are in housing, would be a best fit for the men that live in the facility, for the community and for the YMCA,” said YMCA regional executive director Aaron Gibson in an interview with the New Pittsburgh Courier, Oct. 25.

Gibson said it was important to provide the public with “transparency” in the Y’s plans for the historic site, “because our communities are always being taken away by outside organizations CENTRE AVENUE YMCA or entities that may not $7 million renovation plan. own and operate the build- have (the community’s) The two entities will create ing. best interest.” But most a nonprofit, Centre Avenue “We figured that partnerSEE YMCA A4 Housing Inc., which will ing with ACTION-Hous-

Louis ‘Hop’ Kendrick says

143 Blacks killed in Allegheny County in last 2 years!

Forum B6

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INTERNATIONAL

NOVEMBER 14-20, 2018

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

This Week In Black History

LONG ROAD AHEAD—In this Nov. 9 photo, teachers hold banners during a protest against the high cost of living, in Zimbabwe’s capital Harare. (AP Photo/Tsvangirayi Mukwazhi)

One year after Mugabe fall, Zimbabwe asks, ‘what has changed?’

by Farai Mutsaka Associated Press Writer

HARARE, Zimbabwe (AP)—One year ago the unthinkable happened in Zimbabwe: Robert Mugabe fell from power.

Tanks rolled in the streets of the capital, Harare, on Nov. 14, 2017, and the military put Mugabe under house arrest, in reaction to Mugabe’s firing of Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Hundreds of thousands of Zimbabweans danced in the streets to celebrate the end of Mugabe’s repressive rule that had brought ruin to the once prosperous economy. Mugabe, then 93, soon resigned, ending his 37-year rule.

A year later Zimbabwe’s economic problems have worsened and restrictions on basic freedoms remain, bringing some Zimbabweans to ask ‘What has changed?’ and ‘Are things better?’

The euphoria at Mugabe’s fall has evaporated.

Mnangagwa promised Zimbabwe “a new dawn” but to many the country looks depressingly familiar with long lines at the banks to withdraw paltry amounts of cash and shortages of basic goods have led to the rationing of cooking oil, bottled water and beer.

“They played us, we marched for nothing,” Adrea Magoronye, a Harare resident said as she stood in a line for cooking oil at a supermarket.

Mnangagwa started well but his disputed election victory in July, followed by the military opening fire and shooting dead six civilians, a cholera outbreak and an economic implosion have cast a pall over the 76-year-old’s first year in power.

Mnangagwa promised to turn the collapsed economy into a middle-class one by 2030, underpinned by

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democratic reform and reengagement with the U.S. and other Western countries that placed sanctions during Mugabe’s time.

Those sanctions have not yet been lifted and the signs are not reassuring.

In September, inflation climbed to its highest since 2010, according to Zimstat, the national statistics agency.

Drugs are in short supply in a country where the health system has long been on the brink of collapse. Private pharmacies with drugs in stock are charging in U.S dollars cash that are scarce and out of the reach of many.

“Our patients are relapsing, deteriorating, operations being cancelled. We urge the government to increase the allocation of forex (foreign exchange) as the gap is currently huge as a matter of urgency,” said the Zimbabwe Medical Association in a statement last week.

Many fear the current crisis, induced by foreign currency shortages and a ballooning debt, could spiral into the kind of economic collapse seen a decade ago when Zimbabwe’s hyperinflation reached 500 billion percent, according to the International Monetary Fund, and cholera killed more than 4,000 people.

Plastic bags of 100-trillion Zimbabwe dollar banknotes were not enough to buy basic groceries.

People fear a return to that hyperinflation.

The new currency shortage has forced the government to rely on the printing of bond notes, which are rapidly losing value. The government has also been paying civil servants through electronic funds that show up in bank accounts but cannot be turned into cash. There is also a system of mobile money. All of which are devaluing quickly against the U.S. dollar on the black market.

“The government hasn’t

moved in the new direction any distance yet,” said Harare based economic consultant John Robertson.

“There is no improvement in liquidity, no improvement in foreign reserves either borrowed or earned and no improvement in investment inflows so it is becoming increasingly disappointing. People’s patience has worn really thin,” said Robertson.

Mnangagwa’s government asserts that some things have improved.

“A lot has changed. It has been a very active period for us. We hope to achieve the best for Zimbabweans in the nearest future,” deputy information minister Energy Mutodi told The Associated Press.

Mutodi admitted that “the economy is our biggest challenge” but pointed to more freedoms as a sign of a new direction.

“Freedom of expression, freedom of speech, freedom of association; things that were taboo in the past are now being entrenched and fortified in this era,” said Mutodi. Police roadblocks, where motorists were routinely hassled for bribes, have been eradicated, for instance.

Critics say Mnangagwa’s government remains repressive, citing arrests of people accused of criticizing the president, a characteristic of Mugabe’s regime.

They also point to the killing of six people when the military fired into protesters on Aug. 2 and the banning of anti-government demonstrations.

“We are moving back to the pre-coup era,” said Lizwe Jamela, a human rights lawyer in Harare. “People are still being arrested for expressing themselves, people are being arrested for dissent and for organizing peaceful demonstrations,” he said.

“That trend would indicate that we are not yet Uhuru,” said Jamela, using the popular Swahili word for freedom. “We have a long road ahead.”

Week of November 14-20 November 14 1915—Booker T. Washington dies in Tuskegee, Ala. Washington was easily one of the top five most influential Black leaders in African-American history. Some considered him too accommodating to Whites, but his influence was still significant. Among the educator’s lasting accomplishments was the founding of Tuskegee Institute. He was only 59 when he died.

1934—William Levi Dawson’s Negro Folk Symphony (Symphony Number One) is performed by the Philadelphia Orchestra. This marked the first time a classical symphony composed by an African-American was performed by a major White orchestra. Dawson also gained renown as the choral director at Tuskegee Institute in Alabama. He died in 1990 at the age of 91.

BOOKER T. WASHINGTON November 15 1884—The Berlin Conference begins. This stands as one of the most significant events in all of African and Black history. Basically, seven European powers sat down and divided Africa for their benefit. They created countries which divided tribes and were often unworkable economically.

The divisions and exploitations, resulting from the Berlin Conference, plague Africa to this day. The conference was completed in Berlin, Germany, in February 1885.

1897—John Mercer Langston dies. Today, Langston is an unsung hero, but in the 1800s he was one of the nation’s most dedicated fighters for Black freedom and betterment.

JOHN MERCER LANGSTON Born to a White slave owner and an emancipated Black woman, Langston became an accomplished lawyer. He helped organize the National Black Convention in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1848; organized Blacks to fight in the Civil War; worked in the Freedman’s Bureau; organized Howard University’s law department; became president of the Virginia Normal & Collegiate Institute; and became the first Black elected to Congress from Virginia. The town of Langston, Okla.—home of Langston University—is named after him.

November 16 1780—Paul Cuffee organizes a demonstration by free Blacks protesting the fact that they were being taxed but were not allowed to vote. Cuffee was a prominent whaling captain and businessman who organized the first integrated school in Massachusetts. In his later years he became frustrated with American racism and advocated the establishment of a free Black colony in the West African nation of Sierra Leone which was then controlled by the British.

1873—W.C. Handy is born in Florence, Ala. The prolific composer and publisher would become known as PAUL CUFFEE “The Father of The Blues.” Handy helped move the blues from just a musical genre among low income Blacks to national status. His works became so popular that his 84th birthday was celebrated at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City and drew a crowd of more than 800 blues enthusiasts. Handy’s full name was William Christopher Handy.

1963—Zina Garrison is born in Houston, Texas.

She would go on to win 37 professional tennis titles, an Olympic gold medal and finish runner-up at Wimbledon in 1990.

1967—Lisa Bonet is born to a Jewish mother and a Black father in San Francisco, Calif. She becomes a major actress but is perhaps best known for her role in the 1980s television series “The Cosby Show.” Her given LISA BONET name was Liliquois Moon.

2001—Agbani Darego is crowned Miss World becoming the first Black African to win the coveted beauty pageant. She was from the oil-rich West African nation of Nigeria.

November 17 1842—Fugitive slave George Latimer is arrested in Boston, setting in motion a legal battle between North and South over the degree to which free states were required to aid slave states in capturing escaped slaves. The Latimer incident was resolved when at least 100 Black men surrounded the jail where Latimer was being held. Fearing for his safety if he tried to take Latimer back South, the slave owner decided to “sell” Latimer and left with a small amount of money and no slave.

1911—The Omega Psi Phi fraternity is founded on the campus of Howard University in Washington, D.C. It goes on to become one of the largest and most influential Black Greek-letter organizations.

1972—Despite massive Black voter support for the Democrat George McGovern, Republican Richard M. Nixon is elected president carrying all states except Massachusetts and the District of Columbia. The Black view of Nixon would later be vindicated when he is forced from office because of the Watergate scandal. Nixon was referred to as “tricky dick.”

SOJOURNER TRUTH November 18 1797—Abolitionist and orator Sojourner Truth is born Isabella Baumfree in Ulster County, N.Y. She struggled for an end to slavery and for a woman’s right to vote.

She became so well known that she even consulted with President Abraham Lincoln.

1977—White supremacist and terrorist Robert Edward Chambliss is convicted of first degree murder in connection with the 1963 bombing of Birmingham, Alabama’s 16th Street Baptist Church. The bombing killed four little Black girls, shocked the nation and helped mobilize the civil rights movement.

1993—Black majority rule comes to South Africa as Black and White leaders reach agreement on a democratic constitution that gave Blacks the right to vote and ended Apartheid—the system of laws and regulations which had maintained White minority rule.

November 19 STEPIN FETCHIT 1985—Stepin Fetchit, the first major Black movie star, dies of pneumonia in Woodlawn Hills, Calif., at the age of 83. Fetchit (real name Lincoln Perry) was harshly criticized by most major Black organizations because he made his money playing a lazy, shiftless, easily frightened Black character during the 1940s and 1950s. However, the role, which appealed to many Whites and some Blacks, made him a millionaire.

November 20 1867—Howard University is founded in Washington, D.C., as a result of a Congressional order.

The school goes on to become an incubator of African Americans who play major roles in civil rights as well as Black intellectual and cultural development.

It has approximately 12,000 students and is thus one of the largest predominantly Black universities in the nation.

GARRETT T. MORGAN 1923—Prolific Black inventor Garrett T. Morgan is awarded a patent for his t-shaped traffic signal—the basis of modern traffic lights.

Morgan later sold the rights to the General Electric Corporation for $40,000. Shortly before his death in 1963, the U.S. government awarded Morgan a citation for his invention. He also invented the gas mask.

1939—The state of Maryland purchases Morgan State College in Baltimore. The predominantly Black educational institution was originally founded in 1867 by the Methodist Episcopal Church as the Centenary Bible Institute. It was renamed Morgan College in 1890. It currently has 6,000 students and is one of the leading Black universities in the nation.

1962—President John F. Kennedy issues an executive order barring racial discrimination in all federally financed housing. It was one of several acts which led to the Kennedy name being highly revered by many Black voters.

DOMINIQUE DAWES 1976—Gold medal winning Olympic gymnast Dominique Dawes is born in Silver Spring, Md. 1977—Chicago Bear great Walter Payton sets an NFL record by running for 275 yards in one game.

NATIONAL

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

NOVEMBER 14-20, 2018

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Victim’s dad, NAACP criticize handling of Black attorney’s death

by Dave Collins

Dabela, 35, was found shot in the head in his crashed Associated Press Writer Mercedes SUV near his home in Redding shortly HARTFORD, Conn. after 1:30 a.m. on April (AP)—A court fight over 5, 2014. His blood-alcohol first responders’ DNA has broken out in the case of a level was nearly 2.5 times the legal limit for driving, Black Connecticut lawyer police said. Police said he found shot to death in his died of what appeared to overturned SUV. be a self-inflicted gunshot, The lawyer’s father, Dr. and the medical examiner’s Abraham Dabela, has office ruled the death a suiaccused police of covering cide. A prosecutor concludup a murder. But police said evidence points to the ed there was no evidence of a homicide. death being a suicide.

Police and firefighters The police officers and submitted DNA samples firefighters in Redding about a year after Dabela’s are trying to fend off an death, and state crime lab attempt to collect samples of their DNA by Dr. Dabela, tests excluded them as the who is trying to determine source of DNA found on the gun. But Keith Altman, one the source of unknown of Dr. Dabela’s attorneys, DNA found on the trigger said it was recently discovof his son’s gun at the ered that three firefighters crash site. who were at the scene did Gugsa Abraham “Abe”

not submit DNA samples.

Dabela had been intimidated by Redding firefighters at a local bar a few weeks before his death, Dr. Dabela’s lawyers said.

The police investigation has drawn heavy criticism from the state NAACP chapter, which has been doing its own review of the death in the affluent, mostly White suburb of Redding.

Dr. Dabela is suing Redding police officials in federal court in Hartford over their handling of the investigation. Police officials, including former Redding Chief Douglas Fuchs, deny allegations in the lawsuit that they rushed to a suicide judgment and failed to adequately investigate the younger Dabela’s death because he was Black.

GUGSA DABELA The elder Dabela, a medical doctor in Maryland, has subpoenaed several police officers and

firefighters to submit DNA samples for an independent analysis. Lawyers for the first responders have filed a motion to quash the subpoenas. A hearing about the subpoenas is scheduled for Dec. 13 before federal Magistrate Judge Donna Martinez.

“As long as I live, I’m not going to let this thing die without reaching a conclusion,” Dr. Dabela said. “I’m seeking, and I shall gain, the truth. I knew my son for 35 years ... and my son is not going to kill himself because he had a very bright future. It appears to me that either the police killed him and they want to hide it, or they know the killer and they want to hide it.”

Dr. Dabela’s lawyers have raised many questions, including why his son’s DNA

was not found on the gun’s trigger or the bullet that killed him and why there was a footprint on his back.

Tests show there was DNA of an unknown person on the trigger, they said.

“Everything they’ve done has been used to confirm the finding of suicide,” Altman said.

The younger Dabela also once had a dispute with Fuchs, the police chief, over obtaining a gun permit, Dr. Dabela’s lawyers said.

Fuchs retired as chief in July amid another lawsuit over his handling of a 2016 suicide.

Attorneys for Redding police deny Dr. Dabela’s claims and say first responders shouldn’t have to submit their DNA again because it already has been collected and analyzed.

Mississippi senator’s ‘public hanging’ remark draws rebuke

by Emily Wagster Pettus Associated Press Writer

JACKSON, Miss. (AP)—A newly published video shows a White Republican U.S. senator in Mississippi praising someone by saying: “If he invited me to a public hanging, I’d be on the front row.”

Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith, who faces a Black Democratic challenger in a Nov. 27 runoff, said Sunday that her Nov. 2 remark was “an exaggerated expression of regard” for a friend who invited her to speak, and “any attempt to turn this into a negative connotation is ridiculous.”

Mississippi has a bitter history of racially motivated lynchings of Black people.

The NAACP website says that between 1882 and 1968, there were 4,743 lynchings in the United States, and nearly 73 percent of the victims were Black. It says Mississippi had 581 during that time, the most of any state.

Hyde-Smith is challenged by former congressman and former U.S. agriculture secretary Mike Espy.

“Cindy Hyde-Smith’s comments are reprehensible,” Espy campaign spokesman Danny Blanton said in a statement Sunday. “They have no place in our political discourse, in Mississippi, or our country.

We need leaders, not dividers, and her words show that she lacks the under-

standing and judgment U.S. House seat in Misto represent the people of sissippi, and if he defeats our state.”

Hyde-Smith, he would be The video was shot in the first African AmeriTupelo, in front of a statcan since Reconstruction ue of Elvis Presley, who to represent the state in was born in the city in the U.S. Senate. northeastern Mississippi.

Hyde-Smith, who is It shows a small group endorsed by President of White people clapping Donald Trump, is the politely for Hyde-Smith first woman to represent after a fellow cattle Mississippi in either rancher introduced her. chamber of Congress, Republican Gov. Phil and after being appointBryant appointed Hydeed is trying to become Smith to temporarily the first woman elected succeed Cochran, who to the U.S. Senate from retired amid health conthe state. cerns in April. She will Lamar White Jr., serve until the special publisher of a left-leanelection is resolved. ing Louisiana news site Hyde-Smith and Espy called The Bayou Brief, each received about 41 posted the video Sunday percent of the vote in a on social media. White four-person race TuesSEN. CINDY HYDE-SMITH, R-Miss., told The Associated day to advance to the speaks to supporters of her cam- Press he received the runoff. The winner gets paign during an election night party video late Saturday from Tuesday, Nov. 6. (Sarah Warnock/The “a very reliable, trusted the final two years of a term started by longtime Clarion-Ledger via AP). source,” but he would not Republican Sen. Thad reveal the person’s name.

Cochran.

He said that source received it from the Espy in 1986 became the first African person who shot the video.

American since Reconstruction to win a White said he believes he received the

video because he has been writing about racism in the South for about a dozen years.

“There’s no excuse to say what she said,” White said of Hyde-Smith.

The national NAACP president Derrick Johnson, who is from Mississippi, said Hyde-Smith’s comment shows a lack of judgment.

“Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith’s shameful remarks prove once again how Trump has created a social and political climate that normalizes hateful and racist rhetoric,” Johnson said in a statement. “HydeSmith’s decision to joke about ‘hanging,’ in a state known for its violent and terroristic history toward African Americans, is sick. To envision this brutal and degenerate type of frame during a time when Black people, Jewish people and immigrants are still being targeted for violence by White nationalists and racists is hateful and hurtful.”

A Republican activist who initially supported another candidate in the special U.S. Senate election said he will vote for Hyde-Smith in the runoff, even though he considers her a weak candidate. “That comment about ‘a public hanging’ is much ado about nothing,” said Scott Brewster of Brandon, who is White. “She’s not very smart and made a tone-deaf comment. It doesn’t make her a racist.”

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METRO

NOVEMBER 14-20, 2018

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Will any Black candidates vie to become Braddock’s next mayor?

BRADDOCK FROM A1

ing letters and resumes from interested parties— and even placed a “Help Wanted” ad in the local Valley Mirror newspaper.

Council will appoint one of the applicants as interim mayor to serve the remainder of Fetterman’s term.

She will not be among them.

“When John came in—the young Harvard-educated White guy coming back to Braddock—that was a great narrative. It sold, and it made it easier for me to do my job,” said Doose, in an interview with the New Pittsburgh Courier, Nov. 13.

“And I’m not giving up my legislative position.

Braddock is moving forward. We have a company we’re talking to that wants to put its national headquarters here, another just paid $3 million for some property, and another is looking to put a stateof-the-art manufacturing facility here.”

Doose said her focus is on Braddock, so she doesn’t have the aspirations for higher office that could benefit from being the may-

or—but there are African Americans out there that do have those aspirations, and she thinks some might apply.

“I think there are some folks out there who might, but I’m waiting to see what the response is,” she said.

“John had a unique narrative, that won’t happen again. But we may not need that any longer. Whoever we appoint will be someone capable of being the face and voice of the borough.”

Lee, newly elected to represent the state 34th legislative district, which includes Braddock, did not return calls for comment.

Davis, whose district adjoins Lee’s, said he thinks the mayor’s spot could be a great opportunity for a Black candidate.

“I’m pleased to see a transparent process—not the back-room ‘we’ve already got our guy’ thing,” he said. “I’m sure there are a number of young talented African Americans who could step up. We’re really taking the bull by the horns and getting involved. The JOHN FETTERMAN AND TOM WOLF, seen here during an event in Braddock this summer. Fetterman, the current Braddock mayor, will Valley’s completely chang- exit his position to become Pennsylvania’s new Lt. Governor in January. Wolf, Pennsylvania’s governor, was easily re-elected, Nov. 6, to ing. and I’m excited to be serve another term. (Photo by Courier photographer Dayna Delgado)

Save a life— Learn how to ‘Stop The Bleed’ BLEED FROM A1

legheny Health Network.

“Everything I do derives from serving the community. I’ve seen people who succumbed to violence and in some instances—if someone nearby knew what to do—they might have survived,” said Hammonds.

“Bystanders, witnesses— they’re really the first responders.”

Hammonds said it was more emotional than he expected because some who attended had lost loved ones. One woman wanted the training because her daughter died after accidentally cutting herself on a broken window and nobody was there who knew how to stop the bleeding.

Sarah Zelazny, trauma prevention coordinator for AHN, said her team has done about 60 trainings this year, certifying more than 5,000 people in Stop The Bleed protocols—including EMS, police, hospital staff, and lay people without any clinical training at all.

She said the training isn’t just for, say, gunshot trauma, but for industrial ac-

cidents, natural disasters, home or automotive accidents, anything that can result in a life-threatening loss of blood.

“We go into communities assuming they have witnessed trauma and we go to great lengths to avoid gory details, no photos, we don’t want to rekindle trauma, so we use emotionally supportive language,” she said. “We focus on skills, developing muscle memory so you can act in the event of life-threatening bleeding. A brain in crisis doesn’t reason or function very well, that’s why we train to develop a programmed response.”

There are three main methods to stop a life-threatening bleed: applying a commercial tourniquet; applying direct pressure and packing the wound. Ideally, one would use items in a bleeding control kit—commercial tourniquet, combat gauze— treated with a coagulant, bandages, etc., but that isn’t always possible. Usu- KIMBERLY HART learns how to properly apply a tourniquet. (Photo ally people will have to by Dayna Delgado) use the cleanest available

cloth—handkerchief or shirt to pack a wound and keep pressure on.

“We saw that after the Las Vegas shooting, people stripped to the waist because they’d used their shirts. You should never improvise a tourniquet, with, say, a belt because you can’t tighten it enough—or keep it tight enough,” Zelazny said. “If you have a CAT, great. Tighten it until it hurts and lock it in place— never loosen a tourniquet.

If it hurts, that means it’s working.”

Zelazny also said part of the training is thinking ahead of time about what you’re prepared to do, because it’s hard to weigh everything in the moment.

There is the risk, though small, of blood-borne pathogens. If you decide to act you assume that risk, but you need not fear legal action.

“That’s why a lot of people won’t do CPR, they’re afraid of hurting someone,” she said. “Well, if you’re doing it correctly, you’re likely going to crack some ribs. Here, we’re talking

about a life-threatening loss of blood, not a scratch.

A person can bleed to death in three minutes, faster if they’re on blood thinners.

If you decide to act, you are protected by Good Samaritan laws.”

In addition to giving certificates to all who complete the training—and a wallet-size reminder card of procedures, Zelazny’s team also gives out bleeding control kits to schools, law enforcement, and community centers—the Braddock center now has one.

Hammonds said he was very grateful to the AHN team, pleased with the community response, and he hopes to arrange another training event soon in Penn Hills. Zelazny said she gets many requests for training, but they always sees a spike after events with mass casualties.

Since the Oct. 27 attack at the Tree of Life synagogue, her phone has not stopped ringing.

(For more information, visit www.bleedingcontrol.org.

And to inquire about training, email stopthebleed@ahn.org.)

Historic Centre Avenue YMCA to undergo $7 million renovation YMCA FROM A1

important, the men that live there should have a clear understanding of what’s happening. “At the bottom line, that’s what’s important to me,” Gibson said, “for the men who live there to provide them with a better quality of living.”

The renovations are scheduled to begin in ear-

ly 2019, and last for 10 months. Upgrades will be made to the sleeping rooms (74 available at completion), the kitchen, bathrooms, offices, and lounge area.

Gibson told the Courier he’s received nothing but “positive feedback” since the renovation announcement. “They know the men that reside here

are not doing anything wrong—what they want is a helping hand, so being able to provide those guys a hand up is more important than anything,” Gibson said.

Funding for the project comes from, among others, federal historic tax credits, Bridgeway Capital, the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, and McAuley

Ministries.

“Affordable housing is a strategic priority for McAuley Ministries,” said McAuley Minstries executive director Michele Rone Cooper. “The McAuley Ministries’ Board considered that the project will revitalize an historic asset, maintain affordable housing in the Hill District (a geographic priority of McAuley Ministries), and help support continued development in the Centre Avenue corridor.”

Linda Metropulos, vice president, real estate development for ACTION-Housing, told the Courier that

“helping people live with dignity” speaks “to the heart of why we take on these projects.”

In recent years, ACTION-Housing partnered with the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh on preserving two historic YMCA locations—McKeesport, and Wood Street, Downtown.

With the Centre Avenue having the same historic status, it was a natural fit for ACTION-Housing to preserve that building, as well.

“We’re very dedicated to preserving the single room occupancy units in all those buildings,” Metropulos said.

Metropulos told the Courier the outside of the historic Centre Avenue YMCA will be “refreshed,” but will keep its iconic look and feel. On the inside, “everything will be redone,” she said.

Renters will still be able to live on-site while the renovations are being made. “These are people who, in some ways, have not been well-served by the (region),” Metropulos told the Courier, Nov. 8. “People who we feel should be provided with really excellent housing and supportive services to help them as they build futures for themselves.”

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NOVEMBER 14-20, 2018

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IT’S BACK!—Nominations being accepted for Courier’s ‘Men of Excellence’ EXCELLENCE FROM A1

5 p.m. Call 412-481-8302, ext. 128 with any questions.

The Courier’s “Men of Excellence” Class of 2017 was filled with achievers— NAACP President Richard A. Stewart Jr., Attorney Kyle Perdue of Edgar Snyder and Associates, CCAC President Quintin Bullock, DDS, Pittsburgh Public Schools Superintendent Anthony Hamlet, EdD, UPMC Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer James E. Taylor, PhD…just to name a few.

Ayodeji Young, known in Pittsburgh as Coach Blue, also was an honoree for his work with the Homewood community and the Community Empowerment Association. Terrell Thomas was an honoree for his tidings with the Isaiah Project and My Brother’s Keeper. Operation Better Block Executive Director Jerome Jackson was

an honoree. Louis “Hop” Kendrick, the ageless one, the man whose powerful political voice in Pittsburgh has spanned generations, was our Legacy Honoree.

For Musgrove, his “Men of Excellence” Award sits proudly at his home, as he continues to do what he does best—brighten the days of each of his customers. “To see that you’re performing a service where people like what you do,” Musgrove said, “the first time you cut someone’s hair and they like it, when you cut a kid’s hair and the parents like it, said you did an excellent job, it’s a good feeling.”

Musgrove knows the feeling of walking onto the stage and receiving the coveted “Men of Excellence” award.

Others will have that same feeling come February.

Let the nominations begin.

CLASS OF 2017 HONOREE JEROME JACKSON, WITH FAMILY

CLASS OF 2017 HONOREE JOHN AYERS, WITH WIFE AND DAUGHTER

Who could use $850,000 per week?

It’s official— Le’Veon Bell did not report to the Steelers, can’t play for any team in 2018

by Rob Taylor Jr. Courier Staff Writer

Finally, I can take back my life!

OK, seriously, I’m sure you had way more important things to do and accomplish in your daily lives other than worry about whether or not Le’Veon Bell would ever report to the Steelers by yesterday’s Nov. 13 deadline.

Just so you know, while you were busy paying the Duquesne Light bill, picking up the kids from school and trying to see how many of your crazy family members are coming to your house for Thanksgiving, Bell did not report to the Steelers. He is now ineligible to play for any team—including the Steelers—for the remainder of the 2018 season.

“As The Le’Veon Turns” has been a ratings block-

ROB TAYLOR JR. buster in Pittsburgh for the past few years. Bell, who has gyrated his way to three Pro Bowls and high praise for being one of the best all-purpose running backs in the game, wanted more money and a long-term deal from the Steelers.

Last season, he didn’t show up to play until the week before the season opener, because he want-

LE’VEON BELL ed $15 million (the Steelers slapped the $12 million franchise tag on him).

But he ended up playing the entire season, and performed well, as one would expect.

But this season, Bell took it to a new level. He wanted $17 million and a long-term deal, and the Steelers basically countered with another franchise tag of roughly $14.5 million and nothing too long and too guaranteed.

For the last 10 weeks, our lives have been shattered, our minds held hostage, wondering, “Will he show up? Will he come back to us? We need him!

It’s the only way we can truly succeed!”

Bell even would send messages on Twitter during games, complimenting the Steelers players who are doing well, like his valuable replacement, James Conner. Then last week, Bell was spotted at a L.A. Fitness in the North Hills, playing pick-up basketball of all things! So, of course he was going to report to the Steelers!

And at the end of the day, he never did. And, obviously, he never will.

So, now that the nonaward-winning soap opera is over, maybe we can go back to having some

sense of a normal life.

Maybe we can go back to wondering about real-life issues such as, “Do I have enough in my bank account to cover that car payment? I wonder if I’ll be able to head to Chicago for Christmas, or can I not afford the trip? My water heater broke in the house, and it’s going to cost $600 to get it all fixed…”

My fellow Pittsburghers, how am I—we—to understand Le’Veon Bell’s gripe?

Maybe he truly has one.

He wants to be completely healthy in order to get a big payday in free agency from another team this offseason. He refused to play for $14.5 million this season, basically because the Steelers did not offer him $2.5 million more.

So, all he did was sit out each game, losing $850,000 per week this season in order to…stay… completely…healthy.

Let me be honest with you. I’m very concerned.

Verrrrry concerned.

I hope that Bell, 26, who’s been front-page news in this Steel town for all these weeks, surely doesn’t get any termination notices from the electric company anytime soon. He hasn’t worked all season—he might not be able to pay it before they shut the lights off.

CLASS OF 2017 HONOREE DAVID MOTLEY, WITH SUPPORTERS

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RELIGION

NOVEMBER 14-20, 2018

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Jazz at Emmanuel

Praise & Worship ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CATHOLIC CHURCH Crawford & Centre Ave. Pgh., PA 15219 412-281-3141 Mass Sunday 10:00 A.M. & 12:00 P.M. www.stbtmchurch.org

East Liberty Presbyterian Church Rev. Dr. Randy Bush, Senior Pastor 412-441-3800 116 S. Highland Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206

www.cathedralofhope.com Worship on Sunday: Journey Worship........8:45 a.m.

Sanctuary Worship........11 a.m.

Taize Prayer Service (Wed.) 7 p.m.

Curious about Quakerism?

You Are Welcome at our Meetings for Worship Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

Pittsburgh Friends Meeting 4836 Ellsworth Avenue http://www.quaker.org/legacy/pghpamm

Seminary at the Tabernacle 43 Belvedere St., Crafton, PA 15205 Sept. 10, 2018-May 16, 2019 Sr. Pastor Tony Armstead, MDiv

JYNICE RUDOLPH, of Ambridge

EMMANUEL EPISCOPAL CHURCH, 957 W. North Ave. on the North Side, holds a Jazz event each 2nd Sunday of the month through May at 5 p.m.

On Nov. 11, the theme was “Harvest of the Heart.”

Pictured above is Rev. Don C. Youse Jr. (Photos by Courier photographer J.L. Martello)

Christian Leadership School (CLS) a Four-year Program currently offering Four non-credited courses in four years.

Teaching includes Doctorate and Master of Divinity Teachers.

When: Fluctuates Mon. or Thurs., 6:308:30pm Cost: $75 per class, plus any required books Contact: Rev. Marjorie Davis, Ph.D. 412335-2832

New Destiny CME Church 114 North Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15212 412-231-7882 Rev. Kornelus Neal, pastor The Rt. Rev. Marvin Thomas Sr., presiding bishop Sunday School....................................9 A.M. Morning Worship Service............11:00 A.M.

Join our growing Praise and Worship Church Community!

DR. JAMES JOHNSON JR. is on piano, James Johnson III on drums, Tony DePaolis on bass, and Lou Schreiber on the sax, during Jazz at Emmanuel, Nov. 11.

HARVEST OF THE HEART CAROL VEAL, reading scripture

For rate information, call 412481-8302, ext.

128.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR NEXT CHURCH EVENT!

PAMELA JOHNSON, singing one of the selections

FIONA MCGARTH, reading scripture

\We want to place your event in our Church Circuit weekly calendar!

Send info to: New Pittsburgh Courier 315 E. Carson St. Pittsburgh PA 15219 Or Email us! religion@ newpittsburgh courier.com

BERNARD AND ANNA TAYLOR

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

NOVEMBER 14-20, 2018

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LIFESTYLES New Pittsburgh Courier

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NOVEMBER 14-20, 2018

www.newpittsburghcourier.com

Debbie Norrell

Lifestyles Report

Act older later

There are a lot of good words of encouragement found on the Internet.

Recently I hijacked a phrase from a friend, “act older later.” Now that I am retirement age but not yet retired these three words had so much meaning. Hopefully there will be plenty of time for me to act old. But just in case there isn’t, I don’t want to start acting my calendar age when I don’t feel close to it.

So what is acting old?

I’ll bet when I mention a few of these observations you will agree that acting old can be delayed and acting more of how you feel can expand your life. Recently I was watching a group of ladies being interviewed on Essence.com. They were all over 50 years old. One lady was over 100. She was the one in the motorcycle jacket and the red vinyl jumpsuit. Yes, a jumpsuit with matching boots. I watched her interview and she was vibrant and full of life. This Harlemite who ran the 60-meter dash at ages 95 through 99 (and broke records) says to stay young, take your mind off of getting old. She said you are no older than you feel.

In the same segment, 89-year-old Lisa said she is bothered by the phrase “act your age,” what do people mean by that? Now that is the $64,000 question. How does one act their age? If you are 103 years of age and can still walk, talk and take care of yourself why should you stay in a nightgown all day and eat oatmeal?

One thing I think you should not do is to try and look like a kid. I don’t want to see any 50-year-old men with sagging pants; it doesn’t make you look younger, it makes you look stupid.

It’s just like dying your hair “shoe polish black” when your roots are as white as snow. This makes you look older than you are. Believe it or not ladies and gents, everyone knows you are coloring your hair and you look more like a caricature of yourself.

My advice for “acting older later;” don’t let age enter into your decisions on happiness. If you want to do something and are in good mental, physical and financial health then go for it. Watch out for those voices in your head and those external friends and family who tell you that you are too old to do certain things.

In many cases they are jealous and often that family member has their eyes on your money that they see you enjoying. In the case of extended family they are hoping you will be giving or leaving the money to them or perhaps your house or car.

I love living a Moms Mabley life. In one of her comedic routines she said, “When I die it’s going to be a sad day for everybody,” meaning when I die no one is going to be happy with what is left behind, I spent it.

(Email Debbie at debbienorrell@aol.com.)

DOCTORS IN THE HOUSE—Susan Rakfal, MD, and Felicia Snead, MD, reception co-chair host committee and board member

ARTIST JO-ANNE BATES—Event co-chair host committee, Janis Burley Wilson and Judy Davenport

AMAZING—Jazz vocalist SOMI

‘Familiar Boundaries—Infinite Possibilities’ unveiled

by Debbie Norrell

the exhibit said, “The powerful work of the 12 contemporary artists in ‘Familiar Boundaries—Infinite Possibilities’ is expansive and generative across various media, materials, and disciplines. It’s an honor to organize this forward-thinking exhibition at the August Wilson Center with worldclass artists who create work that carries on the legacy of August Wilson.”

Janis Burley Wilson, August Wilson President and CEO said, “This is just one of many outstanding events scheduled for the August Wilson Center.”

The exhibit is on display in Pittsburgh at the August Center through March 24, 2019.

Lifestyles Editor

The highly anticipated exhibition, Familiar Boundaries—Infinite Possibilities, featuring the work of 12 regional, national, and international contemporary artists, opened to the public at the August Wilson Center with a VIP reception on Oct. 13. The evening included guided exhibit tours and live performances by the amazing Ugandan jazz vocalist SOMI and a presentation by literary artist and art critic, Jessica Lanay. Guests enjoyed a guided tour of the exhibit and a lively meet and greet in the center’s Highmark room.

Kilolo Luckett, curator of

BEAUTIFUL MIXED MEDIA

LEATHER METAL & BULLETS

ARTIST REFLECTED IN HER WORK— Tsedaye Makonnen with mirrored acrylic FLYING GIRLS—By Peju Alatise

TUNDE WEY—Explains his exhibit as curator Kilolo Luckett listens

ART WAS EVERYWHERE—Chris and Dawn Fleischner (Photos by Debbie Norrell)

ENJOYING ANOTHER AWC EXCITING EVENT—Michael Polite, Board chair; Janis Burley Wilson, AWC president and CEO; and Bob Agbede, vice chairman, Hatch USA

ARTISTS APPRECIATING ART “Leon,” David Turner, and Rev. Deryck Tines

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

ENTERTAINER

NOVEMBER 14-20, 2018

Ronnie, Bobby, Ricky & Mike

RBRM!—“Ronnie, Bobby, Ricky & Mike” was the talk of Pittsburgh on Nov. 3, as they performed all their classics in front of thousands at the Petersen Events Center in Oakland. Some lucky fans, such as the two Pittsburgh ladies above, got a chance to meet RBRM. Ronnie DeVoe, Bobby Brown, Ricky Bell and Michael Bivins were part of the original group New Edition. Courier photographer Dayna Delgado captured the event in pictures.

BOBBY BROWN, RONNIE DEVOE (Photos by Dayna Delgado)

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Three workouts everyone older than 60 needs to live healthy life (BPT)—You want to live the healthiest life possible and you realize that to do so, you can’t rely on the same old exercise routine. You need to change it up and adjust your plans as you grow older. It may seem daunting, but the good news is that staying fit can be easier than you think.

“Many older adults know their fitness routines have to change as they age because of injuries, chronic aches and pains, or even shifts in the exercises they enjoy,” says Julie Logue, SilverSneakers(R) training manager for Tivity Health.

“That’s why finding the right health plan during Medicare’s open enrollment period is so important. It’s especially valuable to find a health plan that includes SilverSneakers, which is the nation’s leading fitness program designed exclusively for older adults. It’s much easier to be consistent with exercise when you find a program you love.”

If you are an older adult who likes yoga, strength training or aerobic exercise—or if you are considering such a regimen— Logue suggests a few ways to switch up your routine, so you can continue living a healthy, active lifestyle.

Finding peace with your yoga routine Yoga is popular with fitness enthusiasts of all ages, and for older adults, practicing yoga can improve balance, flexibility, mental focus, core strength and breathing efficiency. It can also be a wonderful stress reliever.

If you are new to the practice of yoga, or if you feel unsure or unstable during any class, consider using a wall or chair to aid you in your balance for certain poses. Make sure to protect your joints by moving gently into stretches and poses, never forcing your body into any posture.

You can regulate your blood pressure with even, continuous breathing. Additionally, be aware that inversions, those poses that place your head below your heart, can cause changes in blood pres-

sure. Finally, while yoga can certainly be practiced alone, taking a class through SilverSneakers is a great way to bond with others during your workout and get expert guidance from a trained instructor.

Stepping up your strength Building muscle mass is a key benefit of strength training, but for older adults there are additional benefits. Strength training, sometimes called resistance training, supports bone health and aids in the prevention of osteoporosis, improves your balance and supports a healthy weight. Regular strength training also can make everyday activities easier.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults of age 65 and older, who are gener-

ally fit with no limiting health conditions, should do resistance training exercise on two or more days a week, focusing on all major muscle groups. When beginning an exercise program, the best practice is to start with lighter weights, performing one to two sets of each exercise with 10 to 15 repetitions in each set.

To continue to benefit from strength training safely, increase your resistance slowly, always using proper technique to avoid strains and other injuries. You can manage your blood pressure by exhaling during the most challenging part of each exercise. Choosing to work out with a partner or coach can help keep you motivated and make you more aware of your form and alignment, keeping you safer during your workout. Finally, take a break. Allowing a day between strength

training workouts helps your muscles recover so you come back to your next routine even stronger. Download the new SilverSneakers GO(TM) app and discover programs to fit your personal activity level.

Keeping the cardio Whether it’s dance or another calorie-burning cardio exercise like cycling or walking, getting your body moving is a fun and healthy way to improve your lifestyle. Cardio exercise has also been shown to improve your coordination, agility and reaction time, as well as help you manage your blood pressure and improve cognitive function. Plus, it’s just flat-out fun, especially if you enroll in a class as a SilverSneakers member.

To keep your cardio routine interesting and effective, pay attention to the impact that some types of exercise can have on your joints. Walking, cycling and water exercise are all efficient ways to get a great workout while being gentle on your joints. And, with social isolation affecting as many as 43 percent of older adults, asking a friend to join you is a great way to stay motivated, connect with others and enjoy life.

Don’t delay in improving your healthy lifestyle today Improvements to your regular exercise routine will support you in your goal of living a healthy life, but you can take the next step with the support of a program that includes classes, digital tools and workouts designed with seniors in mind.

Medicare open enrollment takes place from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, so as you review your plan options, look for a health plan that offers SilverSneakers. Members have access to more than 15,000 fitness locations and community organizations across the country, so don’t delay. No matter where you live, a better, healthier you is waiting to be discovered.

(To learn more about SilverSneakers, visit www. silversneakers.com.)

Heart meeting features fish oil, vitamin D, cholesterol news

by Marilyn Marchione Associated Press Writer

CHICAGO (AP) Fish oil, vitamin D, novel drugs, new cholesterol guidelines: News from an American Heart Association conference over the weekend reveals a lot about what works and what does not for preventing heart attacks and other problems.

Dietary supplements missed the mark, but a prescription-strength fish oil showed promise. A drug not only helped people with diabetes control blood sugar and lose weight, but also lowered their risk of

needing hospitalization for heart failure.

Good news for everyone: You no longer have to fast before a blood test to check cholesterol. Don’t stop at the doughnut shop on your way to the clinic, but eating something before the test is OK for most folks, the guidelines say.

They’re from the Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology and are endorsed by many other doctor groups. No authors had financial ties to drugmakers.

Here are highlights from the conference, which wrapped up Monday:

CHOLESTEROL Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. High cholesterol leads to hardened arteries that can cause a heart attack or stroke. When guidelines were last revised five years ago, they moved away from just using cholesterol numbers to determine who needs treatment and toward a formula that takes into account age, high blood pressure and other factors to more broadly estimate risk.

That was confusing, so the new guidelines blend both approaches, setting targets based on the formula and considering individual circumstances, such as other medical conditions or a family history of early heart disease.

“It will never be as simple as a single cholesterol number,” because that doesn’t give a clear picture of risk, said one guideline panel member, Dr. Donald LloydJones of Northwestern University.

If treatment is needed, the first choice remains a statin such as Lipitor or Crestor, which are sold as generics for a dime a day. For people at high risk, such as those who have already had a heart attack, the guidelines suggest adding Zetia, which is also sold as an inexpensive generic, if the statin didn’t lower cholesterol enough.

Only if those two medicines don’t help enough should powerful but pricey newer drugs called PCSK9 inhibitors be considered. Many insurers limit coverage of them—Repatha, sold by Amgen, and Praluent, sold by Sanofi and Regeneron —and the guidelines say they’re not cost-effective except for folks at the very highest risk.

Finally, if it’s unclear whether someone needs treatment, the guidelines suggest a coronary artery calcium test, which looks for hardening of the arteries, to help decide. It’s a type of X-ray with a radiation dose similar to a mammogram and costs $100 to $300, which most insurers do not cover. LloydJones and others defended its use.

“Half of people will have a zero calcium score and can avoid a statin very safely,” a quarter will score high and need treatment, and the rest will need to weigh options with their doctors, he said.

The Cleveland Clinic’s Dr. Steven Nissen, who had no role in the guidelines, called them a big improvement but disagreed with “using a test that involves radiation to decide whether to give a drug that costs $3 a month,” referring to the price of statins.

A cheap test to check for artery inflammation would be better, he said.

FISH OIL, VITAMIN D Two major studies gave mixed results on fish oil , or omega-3 fatty acids. There are different types, including EPA and DHA. In a study of 26,000 healthy people, 1 gram a day of an EPA/DHA combo, a dose and type found in many dietary supplements, showed no clear ability to lower the risk of heart problems or cancer.

But another study testing 4 grams a day of Amarin Corp.’s Vascepa, which is concentrated EPA, found it slashed heart problems in people at higher risk for them because of high triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood, and other reasons. All were already taking a statin, and there’s concern about the results because Vascepa was compared to mineral oil, which can interfere with statins, and may have made the comparison group fare worse.

Still, some doctors said Vascepa’s benefits seemed large enough to outweigh that worry.

The study that tested the lower amount of fish oil in the general population also tested vitamin D , one of the most popular supplements, and found it did not lower the risk of cancer or heart problems.

“I think we need to accept that that’s a good test” and that the vitamin is not worthwhile, said Dr. Jane Armitage of England’s Oxford University. “We do not see any benefit.”

“Don’t waste your money on those supplements,” which are not well regulated and are of varying quality, said Dr. Deepak Bhatt of Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.

DIABETES People with diabetes often die of heart disease or heart failure, and new diabetes medicines are required to be tested in large studies to show they don’t raise heart risks. One such medicine, Jardiance, surprised doctors a few years ago by lowering the risk of heart attacks and strokes. A second medicine, Invokana, later showed similar benefits but with some worrisome side effects.

A new study tested a third drug, Farxiga, in more than 17,000 diabetics with other heart risk factors and found a lower rate of hospitalization for heart failure or SEE HEART A11

The Pittsburgh OASIS Intergenerational Tutor Program is seeking volunteers (50+) to tutor in Pittsburgh and Woodland Hills School Districts in grade K-4. An hour a week can change a child’s life!

Trainings on Tuesday, November 27 and Thursday, November 29 from 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at 411 Seventh Ave., Suite 525 (Duquesne Light Building) downtown Pittsburgh. All training, materials and clearances are provided free of charge. For more information or to register, contact John D. Spehar, OASIS Tutoring Program Director at (412) 393-7648 or by email at jdspehar@ oasisnet.org.

OASIS is program of Literacy Pittsburgh

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Medicare expands access to in-home support for seniors

by Ricardo Alonso-Zalvidar Associated Press Writer

WASHINGTON (AP)—Medicare is experimenting with a new direction in health care. Starting next year, seniors in many states will be able to get additional services such as help with chores and respite for caregivers through private Medicare Advantage insurance plans.

There’s a growing recognition that such practical help can have a meaningful impact on patients’ well-being—and reduce some costs for taxpayers. A couple of hundred dollars to install grab bars in the shower can prevent a fall leading to a broken hip, a life-changing injury.

That may also help elderly people stay in their homes longer.

The newly covered services are similar to what people might need if they required long-term care, said Howard Gleckman, a senior researcher at the nonpartisan Urban Institute think tank.

“It begins to break down the wall between long-term care and Medicare, which, with very few exceptions, has never paid for long-term care,” Gleckman said.

Change is starting slowly. Policymakers have yet to figure out how to bring similar benefits to traditional Medicare, still the choice of 2 out of 3 seniors.

The new services will be offered by some Medicare Advantage plans in more than 20 states next year, and that’s expected to grow over time.

There has to be a health-related reason to qualify, and costs will vary among plans. In some plans, there’s no added cost. But limits do apply. For example, a plan may cover one day per week at an adult day care center.

Nearly 23 million Medicare beneficiaries, or more than 1 in 3, are expected to be covered by a Medicare Advantage plan next year. The private plans generally offer lower out-of-pocket costs in exchange for limits on choice of doctors and hospitals and other restrictions such as prior authorization for services. It’s a growing business for insurers.

“Clearly this is going to have to be an effort that is going to have to be built out,” he added.

The changes represent a rare consensus at a time when health care issues are among the most politically divisive. Republican and Democratic lawmakers, as well as Seema Verma, the Trump administration’s Medicare chief, are pulling in the same direction.

The idea of broader services through Medicare Advantage was embodied in a bipartisan Senate Finance Committee bill to improve care for chronically ill seniors. The Trump administration issued regulations in the spring trying to accelerate the changes.

According to Medicare, 12 insurers will be offering expanded supplemental benefits next year through 160 plans in 20 states. In four other states and Puerto Rico, such benefits may be available to seniors with certain health conditions.

“The guidance came out fairly late in NEW SERVICES—The U.S. Medicare Handbook is photographed Thursday, Nov. 8, in Washington. (AP the annual planning process, and that’s Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais) one reason why some of these benefits may start out small,” said Steve Warner, head of Medicare Advantage program Medicare Advantage open enrollment for brella are offering different packages in development for UnitedHealthcare.

2019 ends Dec. 7. But it’s not easy to use 12 of 21 states where they operate MediMedicare estimates that some 780,000 Medicare’s online plan finder to search for care plans. They can include alternative beneficiaries will have access to the plans with expanded benefits, so benefimedicine, like acupuncture, or adult day new benefits next year. In-home helpers ciaries and their families will have to rely care center visits or a personal helper at and support for caregivers are the most on promotional materials that insurers home. mail during open enrollment.

Other major insurers like UnitedHealth- popular.

Consumer advocates recommend that For years, Medicare has permitted pricare and Humana are participating. It’s a seniors carefully weigh whether Medicare vate plans to offer supplemental benefits calculated gamble for insurers, who still Advantage is best for them. If they don’t not covered by the traditional program. have to make a profit.

Think free gym memberships, transAnd the limited new benefits are no sub- like it, they can go back to traditional Medicare, but those with a pre-existportation to medical appointments or stitute for full long-term care coverage, ing condition may not be able to buy a home-delivered meals following a hospiwhich many people need for at least part Medigap policy to help cover out-of-pocket talization. of their lives and remains prohibitively The new benefits take that to a higher expensive. Seniors trying to get long-term costs. They can also switch to another Medicare Advantage plan. level, with Medicare’s blessing. care through Medicaid, the program for Medicare doesn’t pay the insurers more “It is a big concept, in the sense that it is low-income people, must spend down their for offering added benefits. Under a comofficially encouraging plans to get across life savings. plex formula, they’re primarily financed the line into the many, many things “Medicare policy has not kept up with out of the difference between bids submitthat affect the health and well-being of the times,” said Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., beneficiaries,” said Marc Russo, president one of the authors of bipartisan legislation ted by insurers and Medicare’s maximum payment to plans. If the companies bid of insurer Anthem’s Medicare business. seen as a catalyst for expanded services below Medicare’s rate, they can return “I, for one, who have been in and around through Medicare Advantage.

Medicare for decades, believe it pays.”

Wyden said he’s working to bring similar some of that to beneficiaries in the form of added benefits.

Insurers under Anthem’s corporate um- options to traditional Medicare.

Heart meeting features fish oil, vitamin D, cholesterol news

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death from heart-related causes—5 percent among those on the drug versus 6 percent in a placebo group after four years of use. That’s on top of the drug’s known benefits for controlling diabetes.

Certain infections and a serious buildup

of acids in the blood were more common with Farxiga but these were rare and are known complications of the drug. It costs about $15 a day, about the same as similar medicines. Farxiga’s maker, AstraZeneca, sponsored the study and many study leaders consult for the company.

One independent expert, Dr. Eric Peterson, a Duke University cardiologist and one of the conference leaders, said doctors have been eager to know if the earlier studies suggesting these drugs might help hearts were a fluke. Results from the new study, the largest so far, “could make

this class of drugs much more standardly used” for diabetics with high heart risks or heart failure, he said.

(The Associated Press Health & Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.)

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NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

BUSINESS New Pittsburgh Courier

Vote monopolization without representation J. Pharaoh Doss B6

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At what age can you ignore your credit score?

by Liz Weston NerdWallet

MOTHER AND SON—Lisa and Diontay Little, owners of Experimac in Edgewood Towne Centre, are excited to service their customers as the holiday season approaches. (Photos by Diane I. Daniels)

Lisa and Diontay Little open Experimac at Edgewood Towne Centre

by Diane I. Daniels

upgrades, pre-owned sales and tradeins for iPhones, iPad tablets, iMac computers, MacBook laptops and more. “At Experimac Edgewood, we are your local Mac experts,” explained Lisa, with Diontay indicating that they repair everything Apple. “If your computer or device

is out-of-warranty, or just old, we can help you. If you have used Apple prodFor New Pittsburgh Courier ucts, we can buy them from you and offer you more if you trade them towards For nearly three months the mother and something newer.” son team of Lisa and Diontay Little have Even though he and the other technibeen operating Experimac, a computer-recians are “I-Certified,” they also have lated business located at 1617 S. Bradthe capabilities to repair dock Ave., Unit B in Edgepersonal computers and wood Towne Center. sell a variety of computer “I am very proud of my and cell phone accessoson,” says Lisa. “As a young ries.

African American male, he In operation since Sephas a lot going on. It’s good tember, Lisa says as more that he wants to be an enpeople utilize their services, trepreneur. At the age of 22 they are getting a good feel he is serving as a role modfor their customers’ needs. el.”

“This is our way of workAfter studying graphic ing out the kinks before our design and film at the Art grand opening during Black Institute of Pittsburgh, Friday and Small Business Diontay says while he conSaturday.” sidered going into busiThe Littles are also getness, he knew he wanted ting familiar with the to invest into something of Edgewood and Swissvale which he could utilize his communities. “This area is creative skills. Something up-and-coming and we are of which he and his mom excited to be here,” said both would have an interLisa, explaining that for est. the past year they diligentThe Littles describe Experimac as a source for 100 PERCENT CERTIFIED—Longtime friends Diontay Little, left, and technician John SEE EXPERIMAC B2 Apple product repairs and Anderson tackle a computer issue.

NEW YORK (AP)—At some point, you’ll buy your last car and refinance your last mortgage. Surely then you can stop worrying about your credit scores.

Well, not really, although there are situations when credit scores shouldn’t be anyone’s main concern.

Let’s start with some reasons why credit scores still matter, even when you don’t plan to borrow money.

LENDERS AREN’T THE ONLY ONES CHECKING YOUR CREDIT Most insurers use credit-based insurance scores, which use information from credit reports to help set premiums for auto, homeowners and renters policies.

A drop from excellent to poor credit can more than triple homeowners’ premiums in some states. Credit can have a bigger impact on auto insurance premiums than any other factor, including someone’s driving record, according to an investigation by Consumer Reports.

That’s not all. Cellphone companies often reserve their best deals for those with the best credit. Many employers check credit reports, which could be an issue should you want to work or return to work in retirement. Utilities and landlords also typically check credit scores, which might become an issue if you move. Senior housing, assisted living and continuing care retirement communities also may use credit histories or scores to evaluate applicants.

YOUR BORROWING DAYS MAY NOT BE OVER Life happens. You may need to borrow money to pay medical bills, replace a car, help a family member, make home repairs or remodel your home to allow you to age in place. If you have to move, you may need a new mortgage. If money gets tight, you may want to access some your home equity with a reverse mortgage.

Reverse mortgages allow homeowners age 62 and older to tap their home equity without having to repay the loan until they sell, move out or die. Reverse mortgage lenders typically don’t have minimum credit score requirements, but a credit check is part of the financial assessment needed to get the loan.

KEEPING GOOD SCORES ISN’T THAT HARD A single credit card is enough to maintain good credit scores. Any card will do, as long as it reports to all three credit bureaus (most do). The card should be used lightly but regularly and balances paid in full, since there’s no credit score advantage to carrying debt.

WHEN CREDIT SCORES SHOULDN’T BE YOUR TOP PRIORITY A lifetime habit of responsible bill payment can be hard to break. But financial well-being sometimes requires putting concerns about credit on the back burner, especially as you get older. Some examples: YOU’RE STRUGGLING TO PAY SEE CREDIT B2

Four lies you’re telling yourself about your finances

SEE LIES B2

B2

BUSINESS

NOVEMBER 14-20, 2018

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Experimac opens at Edgewood Towne Centre EXPERIMAC FROM B1

ly searched for the right location.

Excited about bringing the Experimac franchise to the East End area of the Greater Pittsburgh area, Diontay sees a big need for the services the company offers. “With electronics such a vital component of today’s technology, having the capabilities to provide pre-owned Apple products, to offer repairs and upgrades as well as providing the opportunity to sell or trade is key.”

He noted that screen repair has been a big service he’s been offering.

“Our prices are compatible to other companies that offer what we do, but the difference is that our work and products are certified.”

Lifelong Hill District residents, Diontay says Experimac has a hard-working attitude that Pittsburghers are used to. Describing the company, he said it was started out of the owner’s garage nine years ago in West Palm Beach, Fla. Soon after the business expanded and the opportunity to own Experimac locations through franchising was offered.

The owner teamed up with the founder and CEO of the franchising company United Franchise Group in February 2015 with a plan to take the concept worldwide. There are two franchises in the Pittsburgh region and one in King of Prussia, Pa. Diontay said when researching what business to go into he was impressed with Experimac’s one-ofa-kind concept of specializing in selling pre-owned Apple products, selling accessories, making repairs, taking trade-ins, and selling software and system updates. “The products and

services that Experimac offers are in high demand and found in one place,” he said.

He is also pleased with the in-depth training he and his other technicians received. “We are totally prepared to handle all repairs or upgrades and are committed to providing same day service, fix while you wait and good customer service.”

Pleased with the way the business is progressing and enthusiastic about the developments occurring within the mall, the Littles are looking forward to a positive future. After working for more than a year to get the business open, they feel there is nowhere else to go but up. “We have learned a lot during the process. It has been a struggle and we have overcome many obstacles along the way,” explained Lisa.

She said coupled with the challenge of finding a location and because they were a startup business, they had difficulty receiving financing. “We both have good credit scores and my house is paid off but that did not matter to the SBA or financial institutions. But the denials just made us work harder and as a result the business is self-financed.”

Their goal is to stabilize and grow the business and perhaps within five years open a second location.

Wanting to continue the legacy of the Little name left by his grandfather, the late Judge Walter R. Little, and Uncle Anderson, a well-known radio producer, Diontay, who’s middle name is Walter, says his goal is to always make sure his business is operated efficiently and to do the best he can to satisfy his customers.

At what age can you ignore your credit scores?

CREDIT FROM B1

YOUR BILLS: It makes little sense to keep sending money to credit card companies and most other lenders if you’re having trouble paying for necessities: shelter, food, utilities, medications. You also need help if you’re being sued over debt or hounded by collectors. Consider talking to a credit counselor affiliated with the National Foundation for Credit Counseling and to an experienced bankruptcy attorney about your options.

YOU NEED TO FILE BANKRUPTCY: If bankruptcy is the best option, you have plenty of company. The rate of Americans over 65 filing for bankruptcy has tripled since 1991, according to the Consumer Bankruptcy Project. But bankruptcy is not the credit score killer it’s often reputed to be. Credit scores typically plunge in the months before a bankruptcy filing, but then start to rise soon after. With responsible credit use, it’s possible to get back to near-prime credit scores within a few years after

bankruptcy.

YOU’RE TRYING TO ESCAPE AN ONEROUS TIMESHARE: There is often no easy way out of a timeshare, a kind of vacation ownership that requires paying annual fees and other costs. Sometimes owners can give the timeshare back to the resort developer, or sell or give it away. Other times, the only way to get rid of it is to stop paying and experience the consequences, which can include foreclosure and credit score damage.

It’s impossible to predict the potential costs of lower credit scores, but older people with less reason to borrow may well decide the hit to their scores— which can linger for up to seven years for most negative marks, and up to 10 years for bankruptcy— is better than continuing to struggle for the rest of their lives.

(This column was provided to The Associated Press by the personal finance website NerdWallet . Liz Weston is a columnist at NerdWallet, a certified financial planner and author of “Your Credit Score.”)

Four lies you’re telling yourself about your finances LIES FROM B1

have saved if you actually took the time to budget.

The extra money that you could save can directly to an emergency, retirement, or college fund. On the other hand, if you have money left over and your credit score is a 440, you are still in debt and the extra money can go towards boosting your credit score.

It’s the little things that can make a big impact.

Set a regular schedule to

review your finances and adjust your budget. Your budget is a living, breathing thing that you should engage with consistently.

It’s not enough to create a budget and never look at it again. Still not sure where to get started? Visit https:// www.firstindependence. com/ and check out the home budget analysis tool, retirement planner, or savings calculator to help create a budget that is manageable and will serve you well into the future.

Harry C. Alford & Kay DeBow

Beyond the Rhetoric

Wells Fargo invests $1.6 billion to help revitalize D.C.’s minority neighborhoods

by Stacy M. Brown For New Pittsburgh Courier

Wells Fargo and Washington, D.C. community leaders recently announced a $1.6 billion investment in the nation’s capital—particularly in Wards 7 and 8—that have a high African American population.

The announcement, which occurred at THEARC in Southeast, D.C., was heralded as an effort to unlock more economic opportunity across the city.

Officials at the financial giant said it has created the “Where We Live program,” in collaboration with the National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) and other local organizations.

The program will triple Wells Fargo’s community giving and concentrate resources on the biggest needs identified by community leaders including affordable housing, small business growth and job skills, officials said in a news release.

“Communities succeed when we all work together,” said Wells Fargo CEO Tim Sloan.

“The ‘Where We Live’ program is rooted in two things—investments that help people live, work and thrive, and a deep understanding that neighborhoods need longterm partners,” Sloan said.

“It builds on Wells Fargo’s legacy of empowering residents and small businesses in our nation’s capital for the past 100 years, and our desire to create a compelling community investment model that can revitalize neighborhoods across the U.S,” he said.

The initiative is “an important step by Wells Fargo to expand its investment in the District, and to listen and work more closely with community groups,” said John Taylor, President and Founder of NCRC. “Expanding access to mortgage and small business loans is essential to closing the wealth gap.

Lenders need to listen and focus on the needs of the communities where they do business. It’s heartening to see Wells Fargo strengthen its commitment to do just that.”

Wells Fargo developed “Where We Live” to harness the power of its broad lending and community investment capabilities for greater impact, with emphasis in Ward 7 and Ward 8, officials said.

The company worked with NCRC, an advocacy organization championing fairness in banking, housing and business, as well as local housing, small business and nonprofits leaders to design “Where We Live.”

In addition, Wells Fargo team members will work alongside community leaders on “Where We Live” over the course of the fiveyear project.

Wells Fargo has been in Washington, D.C., since 1914, with its first location on G Street NW. Since then, local investments in the District have included support

for education, the arts and neighborhood revitalization, among other community needs.

The bank’s new commitment includes a five-year, $16 million philanthropic commitment more than triples Wells Fargo’s local giving, with a specific focus on Ward 7 and Ward 8. This philanthropy includes $4 million for Community Development Financial Institutions to grow the small business community and $6 million for nonprofit housing initiatives like down payment assistance and development of affordable rental properties.

As part of “Where We Live,” four organizations are among the first to receive funding: •DC Central Kitchen will receive $150,000 and Wells Fargo will sponsor a class of trainees and support the kitchen’s youth job training center and retail café in Ward 8, where residents can learn job skills and real-life work experience. The project focuses on empowering youth who have become disconnected from work and school to pursue promising hospitality careers.

•SOME [So Others May Eat], will receive $100,000. Homeless families enter this housing program with little income and minimal financial management knowledge. Residents will work with on-site case managers to create plans that outline financial, professional and personal objectives.

Goals include increasing savings, reducing debt, securing and maintaining employment or completing job training.

•The Washington Area Community Investment Fund (Wacif) will receive $125,000. The nonprofit community loan fund’s mission is to increase equity and economic opportunity in underserved communities by investing knowledge, social, and financial capital in low- and moderate-income entrepreneurs.

•Finally, MANNA, Inc., the affordable housing nonprofit that helps low-and-moderate-income families secure high-quality housing, will receive $125,000 as part of the initiative. Wells Fargo support includes development funding for MANNA’s Hunter Place project in Southeast Washington and homebuyer counseling.

Further, Wells Fargo said its pledging to maintain or grow market leader commitments in home lending, small business lending and community lending and investment over five years and, to that end, are providing loans and equity investments totaling more than $1.5 billion.

“For example, the Parkway Overlook development in Ward 8 is one of the early ‘Where We Live’ projects to tap $90 million in lending and equity investments from Wells Fargo to convert an abandoned housing complex into 220 affordable rental units,” officials said in a news release.

BUSINESS CALENDAR PowerBreakfast

NOV. 16—The African American Chamber of Commerce of Western PA will host its November PowerBreakfast meeting, 7:30 to 9 a.m. at the Rivers Club, One Oxford Center, Pgh. 15222. Guest speaker, Port Authority of Allegheny County CEO Katherine Kelleman will provide an update on initiatives and information on doing business with the authority. Cost: $30 for members, $30 for non-members. Call 412-392-0610 for more information.

Training Event

NOV. 28—The Duquesne University Small Business Center will offer a workshop on Using QuickBooks online version, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., 603 Rockwell Hall, 600 Forbes Avenue, Pgh. 15282. Representatives from Dennis Piper & Associates P.C., will provide a product overview including navigation, recording transactions, and reporting. Cost: $49. Call 412-396-6233 for more information.

Financial Statements Workshop

DEC. 5—The Duquesne University Small Business Center presents Get Behind the Numbers and Increase Your Profits, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. 108 Rockwell Hall, 600 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh 15282. This hands-on workshop takes a step-by step approach to explaining two important financial statements: profit and loss statement and balance sheet. A representative from Wilke & Associates will offer clear examples for using these statements to make informed decisions, identify potential problems and set realistic financial goals. Cost: $49. Call 412-396-6233 for more information.

From a digital desert to an entrepreneurial hub The National Black Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) has launched a prototype project that, if successful, will transform minority, low-income and rural communities from forgotten places into entrepreneurial hubs of economic innovation. Our goal is to create communities with access to 5G technology, integrated into low-income housing, job training and access to telemedicine and social services. It will all be done with private sector resources.

If this prototype is successful, it will revolutionize economic development in these distressed areas.

We have narrowed the search for the city, we have political and church support.

We have private sector developers who will bid on the project.

The vision is to organize a private sector prototype to transform low-income, minority and rural communities from forgotten places into entrepreneurial hubs of economic innovation by creating communities with access to 5G technology that is integrated into low-income housing, job training and access to telemedicine and social services.

There is an urgent need to enhance minority, low-income and rural communities.

While these communities suffer from poor schools, low educational levels, high unemployment, drug abuse and many other problems, these problems can only get worse as automation and artificial intelligence further penetrate society. Moreover, recent studies indicate that in the next decade over 50 percent of the working population will work as “freelancers”. To address the future these minority, low-income and rural communities need to develop a path that creates jobs in their communities.

The top-down approach has failed after 65 years of government funding. How would a bottom-up approach work? The foundation of the prototype is to develop technology (cell towers and small cell 5G technology) and low-income housing in a community to provide the community jobs that have access to the world. The technology without people and workers is useless.

Housing without technology is just another housing project. It is the combination that provides a future to the community.

The prototype financing would be provided by the developers of the specific parts of the project. The primary form of financing for the housing portion of the experiment would be the sale of federal low-income housing tax credits, a small mortgage, and hopefully the donation of the land by the city. The cell towers would be financed by the attachments to the towers.

Generally, the combination of the proceeds from the sale of the tax credits along with the subsidized rents supports the entire cost of the housing. If the area is extremely poor, such as an area we are looking at in the Mississippi Delta as well as a few urban centers, there can be a 10% deficit that has to be filled with state housing tax credits, if available in the state, or by a foundation or cross-subsidy from the revenues of the cell towers.

Jobs would be created in the construction of the project, the long-term management of the housing units and with the addition of 5G technology the community would have the ability to create technology jobs and market their products to the world.

Without access to high-speed broadband, minority and low-income communities will be permanently stuck in a wasteland which has few jobs, few skills, few employers and little access to education. Recent studies indicate that in the next decade over 50 percent of the U.S. working population will work as “freelancers”. To address the future these minority, low-income and rural communities need to develop a path that helps them create jobs in their communities.

The technology without people and workers is useless. Housing without technology is just another housing project or Digital Desert. It is the combination that provides a future to the community.

These minority and low-income communities do not have the money to build their own telecommunications infrastructure or housing. The federal government has talked about funding rural broadband for years but with little success. Now a bipartisan group of Senators is actively promoting the AIRWAVES Act to fund 5G technology in low-income and rural areas with revenues from the auctions that sell spectrum, the fruits of those very needed efforts are most likely years in the future. Minority and rural communities certainly do not have the time to wait for government funding. We must see if the private sector can do it now.

If the prototype project is successful, the NBCC will work with communities across the country that want to overcome impediments to success. Armed with an honest assessment of what they want to become NBCC will work with them to persuade those with resources to invest in their entrepreneurial vision. Not possible? Well, every major social change starts with a different vision of the future.

It’s now time to apply creative thinking to transforming these forgotten people and communities into entrepreneurial hubs.

(Harry Alford is the co-founder, president & CEO of the National Black Chamber of Commerce. Kay DeBow is the co-founder and executive vice president of the NBCC.)

OPINION

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Our political realignment

Guest Commentary

Election turnout is encouraging In addition to Democrats gaining control of the House to check President Donald Trump, another encouraging sign from the midterm election last Tuesday was the high voter turnout in Pennsylvania and across the nation.

Last week Democrats gained control of the U.S. House and several races for governor in a midterm election that served as a national referendum on Trump.

Democratic control of the House will mean that the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, as well as Medicare and Medicaid are safe from deep cuts by Republicans.

High voter turnout was a huge factor in Democratic gains in the U.S. House and statehouses across the country.

Voter turnout is usually low during a midterm election, which is defined as a federal election in an even-numbered year when the presidency is not on the ballot.

Voter turnout soared in the 2018 midterm elections, according to an early projection in a new study, potentially reaching the highest level in over 50 years.

An estimated 48.1 percent of eligible voters cast ballots, over 113 million people in total, according to research by University of Florida professor Michael McDonald, who runs the U.S. Election Project. If that holds, it would be the highest rate since 1966, when 48.7 percent of voters participated.

The numbers are still subject to change as states continue to report final vote counts.

The high turnout began with a surge in early votes, as well as primary and special election votes, coming after voters participated at historically low rates just four years ago in the 2014 midterms when only 36.7 percent cast ballots, the lowest percentage since World War II. The higher turnout is being attributed to a variety of factors, including more high-profile and competitive Senate and governor races in key states.

Voters have never turned out in greater percentages for a midterm election in Pennsylvania this century, a review of state data found.

Statewide turnout was at least 57.3 percent, according to the latest reports, with many precincts still unreported.

This is historic. Only once this century has state voter turnout for a midterm topped 50 percent. That was 50.01 percent in 2006, when Democratic Gov. Ed Rendell ran successfully for re-election against Republican and former Pittsburgh Steeler Lynn Swann and state Treasurer Bob Casey defeated Republican U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum.

In 2006, voters were especially disenchanted with President George W. Bush.

In the 2014 midterm election, only 42.37 percent of state voters went to the polls. In this election, voter love or dislike of Trump was a major factor.

In Pennsylvania, other factors included congressional races that were more competitive because of a state Supreme Court-ordered redistricting, and state House and Senate races that were competitive because of retirements and other factors.

But locally, high voter turnout was mainly attributed to Trump, according to reporting by Tribune reporters Michael D’Onofrio and John Mitchell. They talked to political analysts observing the election and voters exiting polling places in Philadelphia.

More than 51 percent of registered voters cast a ballot, according to unofficial election tallies, making it the highest turnout for a midterm election since 1994, when turnout reached 52 percent, according to the City Commissioners’ Office. Turnout for midterm elections has traditionally remained around 40 percent.

Terry Madonna, director of the Center for Politics and Public Affairs at Franklin & Marshall College, said Democratic and Republican voters alike had one thing in mind when they went to the polls.

“Trump, Trump, Trump, Trump, Trump, Trump,” Madonna said. “This was all motivated and generated—the big turnout all over the state, all over the nation—by one thing: Trump.”

Tania Osborne, a student at KIPP DuBois Collegiate Academy, became eligible to vote for the first time following her 18th birthday in September. She was hurt and “felt powerless” when Trump upset Hillary Clinton in the 2016 presidential election.

While Trump’s job won’t be contested until 2020, Osborne said it was the opportunity to vote against those representing his agenda and what she sees as the damage he is doing to the country that drew her to the polls in the Wynnefield section of the city on a rainy afternoon.

“I don’t like Trump. Trump is a mess and he’s messing up our country,” Osborne said.

Many voters shared similar views and instead of just being angry and staying home they voted. This is an encouraging sign that hopefully will continue in future elections.

(Reprinted from the Philadelphia Tribune)

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NOVEMBER 14-20, 2018 B3

(TriceEdneyWire.com)—Nancy Pelosi laid out clearly what Democrats must do. Watching her handle a press conference was such a contrast after seeing the angry, silly, untruthful, bragging, disrespectful press conference by #45, whose name is not worth calling because it is so filled with pollution. What a relief it is to have a potential Speaker stand up to #45--and have the power to block some of his childish antics!

Obviously, my heart was broken when it became apparent that we would not be able to celebrate the election of Mayor Andrew Gillum or Stacy Abrams for governor or Beto O’Rourke for the U.S. Senate. Those results harkened the bitter memories of the voter suppression, racial hatred and overtly racist acts I experienced in my own run for Congress in deeply red Louisiana. Sadly, a majority of this racism came from my own party.

I upset the image. I was both a woman and Black, and White Democrats had not seen such a candidate before.

Louisiana was still firmly in the grip of the “Old South” mentality. And, as James Baldwin said, “Segregation may be practically gone, but the funeral is still going on.”

During this campaign, the spirit of racial animus was resurrected in full force. In Florida and Georgia high quality Democratic candidates were defeated by those who placed their delusional racist reasoning over their own interests and the interests

Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq.

Commentary

people were gunned-down at a Kentucky grocery store. This very same indifference to justice and honor was mirrored by the Secretary of State who was sufficiently arrogant as to try to sell us the idea he could fairly and impartially manage an election in which he was a principal. Oh, how they try to stop our progress!

Despite these inexcusable infractions and the fact that our preferred candidates did not win, we must hold to the belief that the arch of the pendulum swings toward justice.

Horrible acts of domestic terrorism and #45’s immoral distortion of our national character and The TRUTH will not overshadow the insight, courage and bravery of those citizens who work unceasingly for the goal of perfecting our union.

Florida offered us little to cheer about in recent elections, but its voters have offered a ray of hope for the future. They approved the restoration of voting rights to felons who have paid their debt to society. In the midst of chaos, we continue the struggle to bring about equal justice for all. We must be willing to continue, because we’re not there yet. Perhaps this minor political realignment will start the process of moving us from the chaos wrought by #45 and some of his followers to a more perfect National coexistence.

of those they claim to love. In Beto’s case, the racists thought he might actually help the underserved.

Now, let’s talk about the good stuff.

Democrats regained the House of Representatives. People, who are inclined to support our community, won many local elections.

Though not truly complete, the efforts of many women were rewarded with victory. More than 100 women were elected. Among them, three Black, two Muslim, Two Native American, and a Palestinian woman! Now that women know we can win, future victories are assured.

It’s a shame that instead of welcoming diversity, many have gone out of their way to reject it--some in a violent way. We’ve seen White males in horrendous acts over the past few weeks.

They’ve killed 11 innocent worshippers in a Pittsburgh synagogue and sent shockwaves of fear through that (Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq. is national prescommunity and the nation; two innocent people fell victim in a yoga stu- ident of the National Congress of Black Womdio in Florida; and two innocent Black en, Inc.)

Does racism have an impact on health?

by K. Barrett Bilali

History, urban life may be an additional cause

(NNPA)—Racism in the health care system continues to confound but a few researchers are taking a historic look and holistic approach to addressing racism’s effect on Black and poor communities.

One researcher is using his foundation-funded fellowships to dive into the barriers to good health in the Black community, namely Overtown, Florida. While another joined an organization that looks for ways to keep historically racist practices out of today’s health care system.

“Look at the health disparities in our communities,” said Daniel Gibson, regional vice president of the Allegheny Franciscan Ministries, a nonprofit Catholic organization, which works with partners to support life skills, training and economic development in urban neighborhoods.

“Life expectancy of a resident of Overtown is 16 years less than a resident in Brickell, [Florida]” said Gibson.

“And they are less than a mile away from each other.” He said the average life expectancy in Brickell is 79, while Overtown residents die on average at 63 years of age.

Gibson participates in a three-year fellowship program, which addresses equity, diversity and inclusion in the health care industry. He is one of 40 leaders nationwide participating in the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation program called Leadership for Better Health. The foundation seeks to build a “Culture of Health” and draws participants from the medical professions, social scientists, urban planners, and others to develop leaders who will strive to make American communities healthier.

Gibson’s work in Overtown was the reason he was chosen to participate in this expansive study of how health is impacted by a number of social and economic factors.

His organization has been working and coordinating efforts to improve the lives of Overtown residents and has allocated $2.7 million for its Common Good Initiative to assist in community and human development programs.

“Our goal is to make Overtown a safe and healthy place to live,” said Gibson.

‘So Much Trauma’ Gibson said that many youth and families who are living in urban corridors experience a high rate of poverty.

He said these environments lead to cases of depression, drug addiction and social malaise.

“There is so much trauma,” said Gibson. “There is a toxic stress that happens when we are living in under-resourced, impoverished communities.”

Gibson said they are looking at ways to address housing issues and educating people about quality of life, food, diet and work. They are also helping businesses to develop in Overtown and looking at the experience of the Black entrepreneur.

“Health does not have to be a pill; it does not have to be a doctor,” said Gibson.

The Common Good Initiative takes a holistic approach to curing the urban blight. Gibson believes that by addressing quality of life, the health of those affected by racism will improve.

“I will stop short of calling it a racist system, but you can’t deny the fact that one’s race and one’s address has an impact on your health, your life expectancy and your life experience in this world,” Gibson said.

Systemic problem Dr. Armen Henderson, an internist working at the University of Miami

Hospital, agrees that Blacks have suffered trauma, which has affected urban communities economically, socially and the overall health of its residents. But he sees a more historic and systemic source to the problem.

“We should not be able to tell life expectancy by ZIP code,” said Henderson. “That should not be the case.”

Henderson said America’s history of racism continues to have an impact on the health of Black and poor urban communities.

“There is an argument that Black people are still suffering from the trauma of slavery today,” said Henderson. “We have never reconciled the effects of slavery on people’s mental health.”

Henderson said that emotional and physical trauma for more than 400 years affect the well-being and outlook of Blacks every day. He said that day-to-day urban life, gentrification and uncertainty of the future causes stress, anxiety, depression and mental disorders, some of which never get treated.

“The system of medicine in general was started on a racist premise,” said Henderson, who attended Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee, one of the three historically Black medical schools in the country.

Morehouse in Atlanta, Georgia and Howard in Washington, D.C. have the other historically Black medical schools.

Historic medical racism J. Marion Sims, who has long been considered the “father of modern gynecology,” performed experiments on slave women to perfect the procedure of sewing up a woman after childbirth, said Henderson.

“If a woman had a baby naturally, he would constantly cut the women open in order to perfect the surgery,” said Henderson. Researchers have found that Sims even did unnecessary procedures on these women without anesthesia.

Henderson also points to the Tuskegee Study wherein 400 Black men infected with Syphilis thought they were being treated for the sexually transmitted disease when in reality, they were only being given placebos

in a U.S. government-funded project.

“We knew the effect of Syphilis for hundreds of years. And we already had a cure and they let these men pass it on to their wives and they passed it on to their children,” Henderson said. “Finally, it was the Associated Press who revealed this disaster, not doctors.”

Henderson says that the effects of racist history impact the urban setting of most American cities today.

“Most of these neighborhoods are built on faulty land,” said Henderson.

He said they were formed on landfills and chemical dumps. Over the past few decades, the federal government has funded multi-million dollar clean-up projects of contaminated soil due to lead and toxic waste, sometimes called brownfields.

Henderson gave as an example a neighborhood he knows in his hometown of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania which once had a significant number of lead battery factories.

“A lot of people from the neighborhood got lead poisoning,” said Henderson. “And it is not fair. And there has been no effort to undo things like that.”

Henderson also knows of many cases where Black women were brought in to have their appendix removed and found later that their uterus was removed as well.

Health care disparities include the fact that Black women are more likely to die in childbirth, said Henderson, who is an active member of Dream Defenders since 2014. The organization seeks to expose government policies, which lead to health care disparities while advocating for the poor.

“If you are Black and poor people, you have a two or three times greater chance of having your leg amputated as a result of diabetes complications,” said Henderson.

Henderson said that Blacks experience higher incidents of asthma, hypertension and high cholesterol as well.

Henderson said the onus is on physicians to check their bias at the door before going in to see a patient.

“The reality is that because physicians have bias, they treat their patients differently,” said Henderson.

“Until we wrestle with this implicit bias, until we recognize this bias, then we are never going to get rid of our part in health care disparities.”

B6

FORUM

NOVEMBER 14-20, 2018

Trump’s unhinged press attacks are repulsive (TriceEdneyWire.com)—A cursory look at the win-loss column after last week’s mid-term elections suggests that nobody left the table empty-handed. Democrats gained control of the House of Representatives, Republicans expanded their control of the Senate, hundreds of state legislative seats flipped from Democratic to Republican, and Democrats gained gubernatorial, Attorney General, and other key positions.

But both democracy and the truth took a hit during the midterms, when the President of the United States obfuscated, prevaricated, and just plain lied every chance he got. And then he had the nerve to say he tells the truth “when he can,” which really means he tells the truth only when it serves him.

During the midterm campaign, 45 notably attacked Democratic opponents any way he could, often with the vilest of lies. African American political candidates, and especially Stacey Abrams (Georgia) and Andrew Gillum (Florida) were the focus of his ire.

While 45 counts the midterm election as a victory, he was so testily obnoxious in the press conference the day after the election that it is clear that he felt the loss. And when a bully is beaten, he lashes out. CNN’s Jim Acosta was the victim of his ire. Because he was persistent in asking a question, he was falsely accused of putting his hands on

Julianne Malveaux

Commentary someone, and his White House press pass was revoked. At the same press conference, the so-called leader of the free world was rudely dismissive to American Urban Radio’s star reporter, April Ryan, repeatedly telling her to “sit down.” Then, on Nov. 9, he attacked Ryan, calling her a “loser” and saying that she “doesn’t know what the hell she is doing.” He said he might consider yanking her press credentials.

The president is on a roll when it comes to Black women in the press. He told CNN’s Abby Phillips that she “always asks stupid question” when she asked him whether he elevated Matt Whitaker to acting Attorney General because he will impede the Mueller investigation. Stupid is the perfect way to describe a president who does not even know how to use Google search to figure out that his pick to replace Jeff Sessions is biased against an investigation he is now charged with supervising.

Phillips, a consummate and smooth professional, surely understands that she is in good company. Trump loves to attack Black women, especially those who oppose him (like Maxine Waters) for their intellectual acuity.

At the same press conference where he melted down on Jim Acosta, the president also attacked PBS White House correspondent Yamiche Alcindor, describing a question she asked him about the term “nationalist” as a “racist question.” Alcindor, who says she has interviewed several White supremacists that are “excited” by their leader, asked a perfectly legitimate question of the president who has been stoking racial fires since he announced his candidacy. In attacking both the questioner and the question, 45 again showed his biases and his hostility both to the press and to some of the individuals who cover him.

No president enjoys intense press scrutiny, especially when things are not going his way. But no president has been more rude, dismissive and offensive toward the press. No press secretary has been more rude and obnoxious than Sarah Huckabee Sanders. And none has attempted to curtail press freedoms with the vitriol that Trump has.

Mr. Trump says he will pull the press credential of any member of the press who is not “respectful” to him. In his tiny mind, disrespect is the same as merely asking difficult or uncomfortable questions. He and Sanders would undoubtedly feel better if there were no press questions, just syncopated fawning.

I don’t expect decency from the president, but I am concerned that the press corps has not been more strongly supportive of their colleagues like April Ryan and Jim Acosta. What if, for just one day, every member of the press began her question with, I’m asking this in the name of Jim Acosta? What if they started a question with, “Let me say that my colleague April Ryan is not a loser,” this administration would get some sense of press solidarity. Trump attacks because he can attack and because few are willing to stand up to him.

The President’s hostility toward the press is bad enough. His particular antipathy toward African Americans is even worse. Who will stand up for April Ryan, Abby Phillips, and Yamiche Alcindor? Where, by the way, are the women of the #MeToo movement when Black women are being attacked?

(Julianne Malveaux is an author and economist.)

143 Blacks killed in Allegheny County in the last two years!

A total of 143 Blacks If you attend church have been killed in Louis ‘Hop’ Kendrick are you active? If not, the last two years in why not? Do you have Allegheny County. We a membership in the have failed to demonNAACP? If not, why strate the same denot? Do you read the gree of concern about New Pittsburgh Couthe apparent selfrier?” hate that is transpirThe Black church, ing among Blacks as NAACP, and the New we have the deaths in Pittsburgh Courier Squirrel Hill. These 11 deaths that occurred are three institutions that have stood at the in Squirrel Hill were tragic and they were forefront of all positive accomplishments driven by the “Hate of Jewish People.” in this nation. Do you currently support all The 143 deaths are ongoing symptoms of three? If not, why not? one of the most devastating effects of slavIt is imperative that we as a people must ery--”Self-Hate.” We have failed to demon- demonstrate the same degree of concern for strate the urgency that Black-on-Black the Black communities as was showed for killings warrant. Why? We asked the ques- the residents of Squirrel Hill and being an tions such as, “What is wrong with us? Did extension of the Democratic Party. integration stifle our growth potential? Are I have always contended that the Black Blacks worse off now than yesteryear? Do church was first, before Mandela, Marthe Blacks who are doing alright no longer tin Luther King Jr. or Malcolm X, and the care about those who still live in the in- Black church has a mandate from God to ner-city? Do we question how the funerals RESTORE LIFE TO THE BLACK COMare paid for, do these families need financial MUNITIES. (Louis “Hop” Kendrick is a contributor to the New assistance? Are there any children?

“Do you attend a church? If not, why not? Pittsburgh Courier.)

To Tell The Truth

Vote monopolization without representation The 2018 midterm These Blacks overelection was called whelmingly supportJ. Pharaoh Doss the most important ed school choice, but election of the first the new blue wave quarter of the 21st of Democrats was century. Politicians adamantly opposed tried to convince to that policy. So, the voters the nation was Democratic Party momore divided than nopolized the low-inever. The crux of this come Black family/ division was Presisingle mother vote dent Donald Trump’s personality and his without any intentions to represent their rhetoric about immigration. (Right before major concern. the midterms an organized march of thouBefore the 2014 midterm elections a Galsands of asylum seekers began a trek from lup poll reported, a plurality of respondents Central America to the United States.) said the most important problem facing But the electorate heard promises to the United States was immigration. The unite the country before.

Rasmussen Report said, respondents rated During the 2006 midterms the nation was immigration a bigger national security divided over President George W. Bush’s threat than Russia, and the Polling Group war policies. The Democratic Party won the reported 86 percent of Blacks, 73 percent of House of Representatives and the Senate Whites, and 71 percent of Hispanics think in historic fashion. It was the first time the companies should raise wages and improve winning party didn’t lose a single incumworking conditions instead of increasing bent, open seat in congress, or governor’s immigration. race, and Nancy Pelosi, D-California, The 2018 midterm election wasn’t a became the first woman speaker of the U.S. complete takeover of congress for the House of Representatives.

Democratic Party. The Democrats manThe 2006 Democratic victory was a blue aged to regain control of the House of wave, and it never would have been atRepresentatives, but it was just as histortained without the Black vote. That same ic as 2006. CBS News reported, a record year I noticed all the talk about bringing number of women will serve in the House Americans together obscured the disconof Representatives, with several making nect between elected officials and their history due to their race, religious beliefs, primary voting bloc. or sexual orientation. These new faces In 2006 President George W. Bush are a part of the “resistance” to President addressed the NAACP’s annual convenTrump’s personality and his immigration tion. President Bush told the audience he policies. understood that Blacks didn’t trust his And once again the Democratic Party was supported by an overwhelming majorparty, but that history has prevented us ity of Black voters. But at the beginning of from working together when we agree on 2018 a Harvard-Harris poll revealed that great goals.

President Bush continued, “When we find African Americans are the racial group most opposed to immigration, because schools that are not teaching and will not they believe immigration puts pressure change, our parents should have a differon Black American families, who are more ent option. You know, an amazing thing likely than White Americans to work in about our society today is wealthier White low-skilled occupations. Therefore, Blacks families have got the capacity to defeat bear the brunt of immigrant labor compemediocrity by moving. That is not the case for lower-income families. And so, therefore, tition.

This time the Democratic Party monopoI strongly believe in charter schools, and lized the Black low-skilled labor vote, and, public school choice.” once again, the party will not represent At that time all polling data revealed the their primary concern. number one concern among low-income (J. Pharaoh Doss is a contributor to the New PittsBlack families and single mothers was burgh Courier.) failing schools, not war in the middle east.

Check It Out

Black Trumpettes swooned and dined in Trump’s White House

by A. Peter Bailey

you get to be an exceptional Black, you don’t belong to the Whites and you don’t belong to the Blacks. You are too good for the Blacks and you will always be Black to the Whites.”

One of the compatriots of the Black Trumpettes, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas was quoted in the conservative Richmond Times-Dispatch as lamenting that, “If I went to work for EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) or did anything directly connected with being Black, my career would be irreparably ruined. The monkey would be on my back because I am Black. People meeting me for the first time will automatically dismiss my thinking as second rate.”

Another of their compatriots, Dr. Thomas Sowell, warned all Trumpettes to beware of attending a Historically Black College or University.” As quoted in the Journal and Guide of Norfolk, Virginia, Sowell noted that, “Black students with SAT scores of 1000 should not consider going to any Black college because they will be educationally mismatched.”

As an Afrocentric, Pan Africanist, Malcolmite, I consider Black Trumpettes to be pathetic people who will be psychologically and spiritually shattered own that inevitable day when they will be confronted by an overt White supremacist.

(TriceEdneyWire.com)—A recent Washington Informer feature, ViewPoint, focused on the following: “Donald Trump hosted Black millennial conservatives at the White House for the Young Black Leadership Summit.

They reportedly chanted ‘Build That Wall.”

The feature asked readers of ViewPoint, “What are your thoughts?” (about the actions of the young Black Trumpettes.)

“Those kids are so lost,” was one response, “The sad thing is when you don’t know history or where you’re from, you don’t know where you are going. A wise man, Nelson Mandela, said, “Fools multiply when wise men are silent.”

My response to the Informer’s question is that those Black Trumpettes are direct ideological, psychological, and spiritual descendants of George Schuyler and Janet Collins and companions of Justice Clarence Thomas and Dr. Thomas Sowell.

Schuyler, in his book, Black and Conservative, lamented that, “A Black person learns very early that his color is a disadvantage in a world of White folks. This being an unalterable circumstance, one also learns very early to make the most of it. So the lifetime endeavor of the intelligent Negro is how to be reasonably happy through colored.”

(Professor A. Peter Bailey, whose latest book is WitPioneering “Black” ballerina Janet Collins was equally sorrowful as noted in her book, nessing Brother Malcolm X, the Master Teacher, can I Dream a World, Lamented Collins, “When be reached at apeterb@verizon.net)

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

John N. Mitchell

Commentary

Swamp thing wallows in misogynistic, racist backwaters After watching the self-proclaimed nationalist masquerading as president of the United Sates direct the special brand of vitriol he reserves for Blacks at three highly respected African American women reporters last week, it is abundantly clear whom the only Black women Donald Trump will play nice with in a Washington press gaggle.

The trouble is, Lynnette Hardaway and Rochelle Richardson, better known as “Diamond and Silk” since they began their modern-day minstrel act coinciding with Trump’s run for the office he makes an ignorant mockery of on a daily basis, are witless caricatures, buffoons even, and not real journalists.

With their Amos and Andy-like broken English, exaggerated facial expressions and neck-jerking responses to each other’s ignorant one-liners (“say ‘dat, gurl!”), the two portly ladies are a racist’s delight, a smorgasbord replete with just about every degrading racial stereotype attached to the mythical sassy Black women.

This, however, is not who April Ryan (American Urban Radio Networks), Abby Phillip (CNN), and Yamiche Alcindor (PBS NewHour) are. As you know, all three were targets of Trump attacks during media sessions last week the likes of which didn’t occur until this toxic man began bastardizing the office of the president.

Ryan was a “loser.” Phillip, a Harvard grad, asks a lot of “stupid” questions, and Alcindor, who asked Trump about his prior labeling of himself as a “nationalist” somehow became a “racist” for asking him about the racist moniker he attached to himself.

What Ryan, Phillip and Alcindor are in reality are outliers and role models. They had to work twice (thrice, I’d say) as hard as the majority of their counterparts to arrive at their respective stations as members of the White House press corps, because they are successful in an industry that looks to block their participation altogether. And they certainly weren’t handed anything in the manner that Trump’s father bestowed a business on him.

The media is admittedly mostly liberal. White liberals, if we are to believe conservatives, are stricken with a form of White guilt over this country’s racist past. I would call it, more accurately I’m sure, temerity.

And while the media is overwhelmingly liberal, minorities, who make up 39 percent of the population, made up just 16 percent of the newsroom workforce in 2017, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. So rest assured, Ryan, Phillip, an Alcindor, who work for socalled liberal outlets, no doubt have wondered during their careers, “with friends like this, who needs enemies?”

As journalists, you try to walk down the middle of the road all the time. It is your job. You want to give someone— even Trump—the benefit of the doubt, which in the past I have. I have listened extensively to those who suggest he is an equal opportunity insulter, which he is, but I’m not buying that anymore. He is exactly who he appears to be.

He is the same man who in the 1970s was twice sued in federal court because he refused to rent to African Americans.

He is the same man who took out fullpage newspaper adds asking for the death penalty to be brought back, before a verdict had been reached, in the case of the Central Park jogger case, and it was Trump who refused to admit these Black men did not rape and beat a White female jogger after DNA proved it. And of course it was Trump who blew the trumpet loudest—without a shred of evidence to support his claim – that former president Barack Obama was not an American citizen.

But don’t take my word for it. Rather, believe the world leaders who distanced themselves from him over the weekend in Paris at the celebration marking the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I. Uniformly, they denounced Trump’s claims that he’s a nationalist, which is nothing more than a bigot.

I hate to break it to people like Trump who fashion themselves as part of some secret society of coven racists, but the African American experience in America equips you with a heightened ability to sniff out when a racist is speaking in code and messaging the like-minded. No, another story coming across the wire of a former Ku Klux Klan leader like David Duke or some alt right whacko lauding Trump as their kind of president is not necessary for further confirmation of anything we don’t already know.

Trust me, we heard the same thing you did.

(John N. Mitchell has worked as a journalist for more than a quarter century. He can be reached at jmitchell@phillytrib.com)

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Blessed with the ‘Wright Hart’

SPORTS

NOVEMBER 14-20, 2018

B7

Imani Christian Academy’s dynamic receiving duo combined for nearly 30 touchdowns in 2018

by Smokin’ Jim Frazier For New Pittsburgh Courier

The 2018 Imani Christian Academy Saints smashed opponents on both sides of the ball, scoring nearly 40 points per game while giving up less than half as many.

The Saints prefer to pass the football because they have playmakers, great athletes and players who have religiously attended drills and committed themselves.

WPIAL president Tim O’Malley could not be reached for comment, but the tandem of Rahmon Hart Jr. and Dashaun Wright are believed to be the first set of receivers from the same team in recent WPIAL history to go over 1,000 yards in the same regular season.

Hart, a Ball State University recruit, was vital

on both sides of the ball for Imani. Featured on defense at linebacker and on offense, he had 62 catches for 1,380 yards and a whopping 16 touchdowns this year.

“I give a lot of credit to my quarterback (Israel ‘Izzy’ Reed, 2,880 yards, 31 touchdown passes) for making some great passes and getting me the ball. In addition to that, a lot of success that I had this season was due to the hard work I did in the offseason,” said Hart, in an exclusive interview with the New Pittsburgh Courier. “I had some trainers who really prepared me well. I also think the hours of training with the JUGS machine helped me, too.

Those were the things that I think gave me the advantage.”

Hart is recognized for his tireless work ethic and en-

thusiasm to get down and dirty at wide receiver, sacrificing his body to block, catch balls across the middle, and maul cornerbacks at the line of scrimmage.

“We always expect Hart to be a dominant player,” coach Ronnell Heard told the Courier. “To have played as a freshman means he is a special guy.

That’s so rare. Hart is so athletic and he works hard in the weight room. We expect him to continue to play well in college. He’s got a great opportunity. He just needs to take advantage of it.”

The Saints have practiced what coach Heard has preached and they entered the season with expectations for success.

The Saints began the 2018 season with 80—yes, 80— points in a dominating win THE SAINTS’ RAHMON HART JR. AND DASHAUN WRIGHT were major contributors to Imani Christian over Richard Wright Char- Academy’s success this season. (Photos by Courier photographer Brian Cook) ter School (a team from Washington, D.C.). Next, they defeated Springdale, 38-0, and picked up wins over Greensburg Central Catholic, Riverview, Valley, Leechburg and Chartiers-Houston en route to a 7-4 regular season record.

The Saints lost in the WPIAL 1A playoffs to Our Lady of Sacred Heart, Nov. 2.

“I tell them that champions usually are people who work really hard when no one else is looking,” Heard said. “We have a good group. They are individuals with team goals.”

The contrast in stature is

great: Hart is 6’3 and powerfully built and Wright is 5’10 and only weights 170 pounds.

Wright’s role on offense had to be expanded because he is a threat to score every time he touched the football. He is the jack of all trades at the wide receiver position and can return kicks, run reverses and intercept passes.

“Dynamite” Wright finished the season with 45 catches for 1,071 yards, 13 touchdowns and 4 interceptions.

“He is just a great athlete,” Heard said. “He makes big

plays on both sides of the ball. We stressed getting him the ball a little more this year.”

When summer camp opened, only 17 players requested equipment, which is a number that makes head coaches lose sleep at night, worrying about how much damage an injury to a key player or two could do to a depth chart.

In times of trouble, Heard reacts like a strong leader should—calmly.

It is easy to remain stressfree when you are blessed with the “Wright Hart.”

RAHMON HART JR. caught 62 passes for 1,380 yards this season. He’s a Ball State University recruit.

Some sports media in this town are ‘two-faced’ Tomlin blamed for team losses, never praised on current 5-game win streak

by Aubrey Bruce For New Pittsburgh Courier

On Nov. 8, an Associated Press article stated: “The Pittsburgh Steelers aren’t playing like a team missing Le’Veon Bell. Ben Roethlisberger threw for 328 yards and five touchdowns. The Steelers pounded the Carolina Panthers, 52-21, on Thursday night for their fifth straight victory.”

That article is about as good a summation of a very lopsided Steelers victory that I could read or write about.

Professional football in general gushed about Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger having earned a “perfect” 158.3 quarterback in his win against the Panthers this past Thursday, Nov. 8. I have my drinking glass against the wall trying to eavesdrop to hear if the chatter has stalled with regards to Mike Tomlin’s pending demise because of the lack of discipline in the locker room remaining the primary catalyst of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ pending downfall. Oops, did I fail to mention that the Steelers reside at the top of the AFC North “food chain” after starting the season at 1-2-1?

The current Pittsburgh Steelers are a good, but not great football team that can ascend from above average to superior in the blink of an eye. However, there is only one component that distinguishes them from hall of fame to hall of shame. That element is inconsistency. Just like many of the scribes that cover

Inside Conditions

AUBREY BRUCE them on a daily basis, the Pittsburgh Steelers do not have the performance continuity that a few of the “elite” NFL teams have.

Sadly a few of the Pittsburgh writers that consistently cover the team focus on creating goats and heroes. In early October when Ben Roethlisberger alluded to the fact that he and his partner-in-crime wide receiver Antonio Brown were not on the same page, the poison between them infected the team as a whole and as we all know the only known antidote to losing is winning, period. Unlike his team and a majority of the media, Tomlin and his methods of discipline or lack thereof seem to have remained unchanged.

And here’s what’s changed…

The Steelers are now winning and all of that other “hogwash of losing” can safely be returned to the pigpen. This past Sunday, Nov. 11, the New

England Patriots were defeated by the Tennessee Titans, 34-10. Sam Quinn of 247sports.com had this to say about the loss. “The New England Patriots just played one of the worst games of the Bill Belichick era. They came into Nashville expecting an easy win over the Tennessee Titans.

They promptly allowed the Titans to destroy them…

This game was, in short, a complete and utter disaster for the defending AFC champions and the media recognized that. Nobody let the Patriots off the hook for their terrible performance.”

No one said that the reason that the Patriots were defeated was because of the lack of discipline in the locker room or that Patriots head coach Bill Belichick was playing favorites. If the Steelers go on to snag their seventh Lombardi Trophy at the conclusion of the 2018 season, there is a good chance that the primary reason for victory will not hinge on the greatness of the coaching staff or on disciplinary punishment dished out by the head coach or the lack thereof.

The same folks that were whining about why Antonio Brown was not temporarily suspended or benched for being stopped and ticketed for allegedly driving more than 100 miles per hour in a “residential zone.” You can bet your last dollar on this. I am positive that the Carolina Panthers wish that in light of the way that Antonio Brown torched their secondary that he had been forced to “ride the pine” last Thursday night.

DASHAUN WRIGHT caught 45 passes for 1,071 yards this season, helping the Saints in a variety of ways.

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NOVEMBER 14-20, 2018

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER