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VOL. 106, NO. 49
Urban League honors community leaders at gala
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DECEMBER 9-15, 2015
United Way to invest millions in 5-year plan by Samson X Horne
by Ashley Johnson Courier Staff Writer
dance and registration rates, and provide students with mentors. Julie DeSeyn, vice president of community impact for the United Way said the plan pinpoints children in kindergarten to eighth grade because of that is deemed their “formative years.” These programs are aimed at thwarting the trend of young children, especially those in the low-income bracket, from falling behind their peers. “For children facing economic barriers, education is the most effective way for them to reshape their lives and become self-sufficient in the future,” said DeSeyn. Officials from United Way said that they will be partnering with businesses, civic organizations and
Acknowledging those who, like itself, work diligently in the community to address the issues and meet the needs of African Americans, especially youths, while paying tribute to the legacy of the late Ronald H. Brown, a man regarded as a mentor and who made it his life’s mission to provide opportunities for all, was the aim of the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh’s 2015 Ronald H. Brown Leadership Awards Gala, held Dec. 4 at the Westin Convention Center Hotel, in Downtown Pittsburgh. The annual affair, which celebrated its 20th anniversary, was attended by approximately 410 of Pittsburgh’s finest and, as of the gala’s start, according to Judge Dwayne D. Woodruff, chair of the Urban League board of directors, raised more than $348,000; all of which will go to helping families in the greater Pittsburgh area connect with the resources that can lead to greater self-reliance. “The Ron Brown (gala) always comes off very well, but I think the spirit was truly in the room this year, (with the) sharing of diversity and acknowledging the mission of the Urban League and what we do,” said Esther Bush, president and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh. “Given the environment of our city and our country right now, I feel very good that we were able to put on a positive and supportive event. “ Although Bush, herself, had deemed the gala a success, she said it was the positive feedback she received from those who attended, especially the ones who have supported the
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The United Way of Allegheny County unveiled a strategic five-year plan that invests $8 million into academic and social development. In a press conference at the University of Pittsburgh, officials from the United Way said the plan will focus on initiatives that enhance after-school programming, improve atten-
“We set out aggressive goals based on things that we think we could actually achieve.” JULIE DeSEYN, vice president of community impact for the United Way
PAVING THE WAY—The Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh celebrated several community leaders who work with youth at its 2015 Ronald H. Brown Leadership Awards Gala. Pictured above, Esther Bush presents honoree Ron Lawrence with the Community Leadership Award. (Photos by J.L. Martello)
PEGGY HARRIS, Three Rivers Youth Honoree
JASIRI X Honoree
KEEPING SCORE—Rashad Byrdsong tells residents gathered for a Community Speak Out meeting at CEA that he will keep score on politicians’ promises versus results, and hold them to account. (Photo by J.L. Martello)
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By the time Pittsburgh Chief Urban Affairs Officer Valerie McDonald Roberts arrived at city council to defend her department’s proposed 2016 budget, only Councilmen Rev. Ricky Burgess and R. Daniel Lavelle were present. But lack of attendance did not mean lack of interest—particularly in Roberts’ initiative to tie M i n o r i t y, Women and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise contract monitoring for every city department and authority into a FINDING FUNDING—Chief Urban s i n g l e Affairs Officer Valerie McDonald database. Roberts said she is pleased counRoberts ex- cil members want a full-time plained that manager for MWDBE contract Mayor Bill monitoring in her department. Peduto’s pro- (Photo by J.L. Martello) posed budget is the first that fully funds all the department’s salaries. During its first two years, her salary had been covered by foundation grants. With a reallocation of responsibilities, she said, the proposed budget now funds a Small Business & Redevelopment manager, three deputy chiefs, a housing manager, two associates, a conSEE BURGESS A5
Courier Staff Writer
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Burgess, Lavelle look to augment MWDBE budget Courier Staff Writer
by Christian Morrow
Pittsburgh Courier
LAVELLE
by Christian Morrow
Byrdsong calls for Homewood Community Benefits Agreement In addition to his anti-violence activism, Rashad Byrdsong, president and CEO of the Community Empowerment Association, also works to train and employ young men in Homewood in the building trades. But outside of his and a limited number of firms, he said none of the economic development work in the community is being done by people in the community. That, he said, has to stop. During a Dec. 7 Community Speak Out meeting, he said it again, louder. “We demand full citizens
BURGESS
No new police training facility in city budget Mayor, chief committed to increasing recruits by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
rights in enjoying the prosperity of the Pittsburgh Renaissance,” he said. “It is time for African Americans to demand policies that decrease disparity rates for African Americans in the city of Pittsburgh. How can we continue to see economic development for everyone except the residents of the community being developed?” Byrdsong called for a Community Benefits Agreement for Homewood, telling the audience of about 50 that the problem is more than simply a “Black-White thing.”
Reacting to the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police demographic data published earlier this year that 204 of its officers were fully eligible for retirement in 2015, both police Chief Cameron McLay and Mayor Bill Peduto said they wanted to address the potential problem of a mass retirement by either expand the existing training academy or move it to a lager location to accommodate training for two recruitment classes simultaneously. However, neither of those things will be happening in 2016 if the mayor’s proposed budget for police remains as it is. Though the operating budget calls for a substantial $16.6 million increase, almost $14 million of that is taken up by personnel and employee benefits. Other line item increases include a $411,000 increase in salaries; nearly
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Ulish Carter says
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This Week In Black History
DECEMBER 9-15, 2015
INTERNATIONAL
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Week of Dec. 9-15 December 9 1872—P.B.S. Pinchback begins serving as the first Black governor of Louisiana. He served for a little more than a month. Pinchback, son of a White plantation owner and a former Macon, Ga., slave, was a major force in Louisiana politics after the civil war and during Reconstruction. He was also instrumental in the 1879 establishment of Southern University. 1875—Carter G. Woodson is born in New Canton, Va. In 1926, Woodson started the first Negro History Week which grew to become Black History Month. December 10 1846—Norbert Rillieux invents the “multiple effect pan evaporator” which revolutionizes the sugar industry and makes the work much less hazardous for the workers. Rillieux was PBS PINCHBACK born “quadroon libre” in New Orleans, La. His father was a wealthy French plantation owner and his mother a former slave. He was sent to Paris, France, to be educated in engineering. He also researched Egyptian hieroglyphics. There is no record that he ever returned to the U.S. after the 1850s. He died in Paris in 1894. 1854—Edwin C. Berry is born in Oberlin, Ohio. In Athens, Ohio, he co-founds the City NEWS CONFERENCE—In this Wednesday, Nov. 18, file photo, Aly Kamel, an imam from the Bronx Muslim Center, holds a Quran before reading from it during a news conference in New York. (AP Restaurant and builds the Hotel Berry which was to become one of the most elegant hotels in the entire state. By the time he retired in 1921, he was one of the most successful Photo/Seth Wenig) Black businessmen in America. He dies in 1931. 1950—Ralph Bunche becomes the first African-American awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Bunch was born in Detroit, Mich. But his family moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico, and then Los Angeles, Calif., where he showed academic genius and won a scholarship to Harvard. His fame came when he worked out a temporary settlement between the Palestinians and the Jews after the state of Israel was established in 1948 on Palestinian lands. It was that work Muslims are collectively rewhich won him the Nobel Peace Prize. search Center survey last by Rachel Zoll sponsible for the violence. December 11 year found an increasing AP Religion Writer “America is ready for a share of Americans believe 1917—Thirteen Black soldiers were hanged for their participation in the so-called Houston riot. The “riot” had ocNEW YORK (AP)—By more sophisticated conversa- Islam is more likely than curred in August of 1917 when Whites objected to the presnow, the tableau has become tion when it comes to these other religion to encourage ence of Black soldiers in the city. Racist insults and mistragically familiar: Ameri- things,” said Shahed Aman- violence among its followRALPH BUNCHE treatment began. Then a Black soldier intervenes in the arcan Muslims standing be- ullah, a former U.S. State De- ers. A growing number of fore a bank of cameras, con- partment adviser and co- U.S. Muslims resented sug- rest of a Black woman. A Black corporal inquires with the police about the arrest of the demning an attack linked to founder of Affinis Labs, gestions that they had a soldier. A fight breaks out between the corporal and the police. A rumor spreads that a which helps develop apps to special obligation to con- White mob was marching on the Black camp. Roughly 100 Black soldiers grabbed rifles Islamic extremism. After the San Bernardino, counter the appeal of Islamic demn attacks— no other re- and marched onto downtown Houston. Within two hours they had killed 15 Whites inCalifornia, rampage, the local extremism and build online ligious group, they argued, cluding four police officers. They returned to camp but military officials pressured seven chapter of the Council on communities for young Mus- is expected to issue such soldiers to snitch on the others. Their snitching resulted in the convictions and hangings American-Islamic Relations lims. “You can’t press release statements after self-pro- of 13 Black soldiers. 1917—The Great Jazz Migration begins when noted musician fessed followers of their didn’t even wait for law en- your way out of this.” The public pleas that all faiths commit a crime. Joe “King” Oliver leaves New Orleans, La., and settles in forcement to announce a moAt a Georgetown Univer- Chicago, Ill. He is soon joined by other early Jazz greats. Their tive. Just hours after the hus- Muslims should not be band-and-wife shooters were blamed for attacks in the sity event last month on presence in Chicago laid the foundation for the Southern Black identified as Muslim on Dec. name of Islam grew in the anti-Muslim bias, speaker music genre (with heavy sexual overtones) to become a national 2, the civil rights group held a aftermath of the 2001 Linda Sarsour said she obsession. Actually, the “migration” may not have been quite so ronews conference with the strikes on the World Trade struggled with Muslims mantic. Instead of being forced by the closing of the New Orleans who take part in such news Storyville district, Jazz greats probably left New Orleans for perpetrators’ brother-in-law, Center and the Pentagon. The attacks occurred at conferences. Chicago for the same reason other Blacks left the South--failing Farhan Khan. “It reinforces the fallacy crops forced the disappearance of jobs while Northern factories reAnd so we had a stunned, an especially vulnerable slightly disheveled Muslim moment for the U.S. Mus- that I have something in cruited Blacks for work to produce arms and other goods for World man, surrounded by Muslim lim community, which was common with” the Islamic War I. Nevertheless, many historians view Oliver’s relocation to leaders, saying his family more inwardly focused at State group, said Sarsour, a Chicago as the start of New Orleans Jazz migrating to the rest of had no hint of the plot. “I love the time and not nearly as prominent Muslim leader the nation. accepted in American cul- from New York. She said December 12 this country,” Khan said. 1911—Josh Gibson, legend of the Negro Baseball League, is “Perception is reality,” ture as Christianity and Ju- she condemns terrorism not said Salam Al-Marayati, daism. The few American as a Muslim, but “as a born in Buena Vista, Ga. Standing 6’2” and weighing between JOE ‘KING’ OLIVER president of the Muslim Muslim groups with any human” who is outraged 205 and 215, Gibson was a near perfect physical specimen who Public Affairs Council, a public profile issued a and saddened by violence. became the league’s home run king. He is credited with up to 932 home runs and a lifetime batting average of over .350. The only Negro League baseball policy and advocacy group flurry of press releases con- The audience applauded. Ibrahim Hooper, spokes - player better known than Gibson was the great pitcher Satchel Paige. The tremendous based in Los Angeles. demning the attacks and “There was enough infor- calling Islam a peaceful re- man for the national Coun- talent of the Negro League players was summed up by Washington Post sports writer mation out there at that ligion, encouraged mosques cil on American-Islamic Re- Shirley Povich in a 1941 column, “The only thing keeping them out of the big leagues is the pigmentation of their skin.” time that people believed it to hold open houses, orga- lations, the civil rights 1941—Three time Grammy winning singer Dionne Warwas (extremism) and that nized interfaith events and group that is the primary wick is born on this day. She is a woman of many accomplishhas an impact on Muslim held Islam 101 sessions for force behind the condemnaments including leading Hollywood’s anti-AIDS campaign and communities. You have to law enforcement officials tions and news conferences, and community leaders. having her own skin care line. Her career was tainted a bit by said he is well aware of the be proactive.” Muslim groups largely criticism. He said every her latter day association with the so-called Psychic Friends But some in the Muslim Network. community say a new game kept to script after extrem- time his organization posts 1963—The east African nation of Kenya is proclaimed indeplan is needed. A younger ist attacks in places such as a statement on Facebook pendent from colonial rule. The first president is the charismatic generation is especially im- London in 2005, Fort Hood, condemning Islamic exJomo Kenyatta. Despite many of the same problems which patient with the condemna- Texas, in 2009, Boston in tremists, commenters combeset most other African nations, Kenya has remained one of the tions of Islamic extremism 2013 and, most recently, plain: “We shouldn’t have to most politically stable countries on the continent. This is despite do this. You’re feeding into a from Muslim groups after last month in Paris. But many Americans con- false linkage of Islam to terits beginnings which saw the brutal British repression of the every attack. They argue Mau Mau movement--a secret insurgency of Kikuyu tribesmen, that the statements merely tinued to blame Islam itself rorism.” which had risen up to, drive out the White settlers. At the same time, Hooper reinforce false notions that for extremism. A Pew ReJOSH GIBSON December 13 said, “I’m getting hate calls 1903—Another one of the great unsung heroines of the Civil Rights Movement Ella all day long saying, `Sure you condemn terrorism, but Baker is born in Norfolk, Va. She directed the New York branch of the NAACP; became executive director of the Martin Luther King Jr. founded Southern Christian Leadership we don’t believe you.”’ Since the Paris attacks, Conference during the turbulent 1960s; and played a key role in the founding of the and after the California as- “Black Power” oriented Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee. In addition, she sault, U.S. Muslim leaders was a mentor to Rosa Parks and helped to lead the Mississippi voter registration drive. have been reporting a fresh She frequently found herself as the only woman in the usually all male leadership strucoutburst of threats and ture of civil rights organizations and often had to battle sexism. Even more than Rosa Parks, Baker deserves to be called the “mother of the civil rights movement.” Baker, a vandalism at mosques. “To remain silent _ I don’t teacher, mentor and organizer, died in 1986 on her 83rd birthday. 1913—Archie Moore is born Archibald Lee White in Benoit, Miss. He becomes light think that’s a viable alternative, especially when the heavyweight champion in 1952. 1981—Old-style Black comedian Dewey “Pigmeat” Markham dies. His standup comNew York Post front page screams `Muslim Killers,”’ edy routine was a major attraction at many Black-oriented events and shows during the as it did after the San 1950s and 1960s. He also achieved some national fame among Whites with his “here Bernardino shootings, comes the judge” routine on the 1970s TV series “Laugh In.” December 14 Hooper said. 1799—The first President of the United States George Washington dies. In his will the “founding father” stipulated that his THE slaves shall be freed upon the death of his wife Martha. WashNEW PITTSBURGH ington was a wealthy Virginian who supported slavery but did COURIER not want to see it expanded. In this regard, he signed the notoriPUBLISHING COMPANY ous Fugitive Slave Act of 1793 but also signed legislation barring the expansion of slavery into the Northwest Territories. Upon her death, Martha Washington also freed the slaves she owned. Publication No.: USPS 381940 One Washington slave is known to have escaped and was never recaptured. His name was Ona Judge Staines. 315 East Carson Street 1915—Jack Johnson, perhaps the most controversial Black JACK JOHNSON Pittsburgh, PA 15219 boxer in American history, wins the heavy weight championship. Phone 412-481-8302 He fought at least 114 matches winning most of them. One biographer described Johnson as a man who “lived life his way.” But his outspokenness and affairs with White Fax: 412-481-1360 women ran him afoul of the racist authorities of the day. He was jailed for nearly a year in 1913 on trumped up charges. He fought his last match in 1928. After boxing he became The sensation on Broadway in the play “Great White Hope.” Born in Galveston, Texas, JohnNew Pittsburgh Courier ason (full name Arthur John Johnson) died in Raleigh, N.C., as a result of an automobile is published weekly accident. For reasons which remain unclear, President Obama has delayed granting Johnson a pardon on his 1913 conviction even though the measure has little opposition. periodicals December 15 paid at Pittsburgh, Pa. 1864—One of the most decisive battles of the Civil War begins on this day with Black troops helping to crush one of the South’s finest armies at the Battle of Nashville. In a PRICE $1.00 bid to stop the advances of the Union Army under Maj. Gen. William T. Sherman, rebel (Payable in advance) Gen. John Bell Hood led the powerful Army of Tennessee to Nashville to cut off Sherman’s supply lines. After two weeks of positioning and waiting for a break in the cold Months...........$25 weather, the Union side finally decided to hurl the 13th United States Colored Troops 66Months...........$25.00 at the Army of Tennessee. Although suffering massive casualties, the Black troops Year.................$45 11Year.................$45.00 broke through the Confederate lines in a matter of hours. The victory helped to seal the 22Years...............$85.00 South’s fate and bring an end to the Civil War the very next year. Years...............$85 1934—Maggie Lena Walker dies on this day at age 69. She had become perhaps the 9 Month School Rate $35 most powerful Black female businesswoman and social activist in America. Born to former slaves who themselves became activists for Black betterment, Walker at the tender POSTMASTER: Send age of 14 joined the Independent Grand United Order of St. Luke in Richmond, Va. She address changes to: would help transform the Order and led it to become a premier Black self-help group. At its height, the Order had 50,000 members, 1500 local chapters, and a multi-purpose fiNew Pittsburgh Courier nancial complex. Under Walker, the Order started a newspaper--the St. Luke Herald and a bank—the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank. Indeed, the bank was the only Black Rich315 East Carson Street mond bank to survive the Great Depression bringing other banks under its wing and bePittsburgh, PA 15219 coming the Consolidated Bank and Trust Company.
US Muslims struggle with how they should condemn extremism
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Exclusive: Chicago cops not endangered when officer shot Black teen 16 times
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by George E. Curry
(George Curry Media) WASHINGTON—None of the other policemen present when Officer Jason Van Dyke’s riddled 17-year-old Laquan McDonald’s body with 16 bullets on Oct. 20, 2014 ever felt their life was in danger, Stephen R. Patton, the head of the city’s law department, testified earlier this year. Patton, Chicago’s corporation counsel, shared that conclusion April 13 when he testified before the Chicago City Council Finance Committee, chaired by Edward M. Burke. A 15-page transcript of the hearing recorded by McGuire’s Reporting Service has been obtained by George Curry Media. The hearing, held shortly after Rahn Emanuel was reelected mayor, was called to consider a proposed $5 million settlement with McDonald’s estate. Initially, lawyers for the Black teen slain by the White police officer as he was walking away had sought a $16 million settlement, according to Patton. However, through a series of negotiations, that figure was reduced to $5 million, including all attorney fees and costs. Officer Van Dyke, who was jailed and released on $1.5 million bond, contended that McDonald was walking toward him and he felt his life was in danger.
However, police department dash-camera video clearly show that McDonald was walking away when he was shot repeatedly by Van Dyke, mostly while he was already on the ground in a fetal position. Patton made a strong case for settlement, which is ultimately provided from taxes paid by Chicago residents. In the transcript, the victim’s first name was incorrectly spelled LaQuan instead of Laquan and Van Dyke was referred to as Officer A because of an agreement between the city of Chicago and the Fraternal Order of Police prohibiting the city from revealing the name of an accused officer prior to his or her identity being disclosed in legal proceedings. “...The attorneys for the estate will argue that Mr. McDonald did not pose any immediate threat of death or great bodily harm to Officer A and that instead McDonald, as I mentioned before, was walking away from the police when he was shot, and they will argue that the videotape supports their version of events,” Patton stated. He continued, “The estate or plaintiffs will also argue that their position that deadly force was not justified is demonstrated by the conduct of the other officers at the scene, none of whom fired their weapon at McDonald.
“This is kind of a unique case where we had the original two officers who arrived at the scene, followed Mr. McDonald for some number of blocks and matter of minutes and never saw fit to discharge their weapons. “It also applies to Officer A’s partner who is right beside him when they exited the police vehicle also got out of the police car with gun drawn but did not shoot. “So the plaintiffs will contend, if this matter were not resolved, that the unreasonableness of Officer’s A’s conduct is shown by the restraint that was demonstrated by the other five officers, none of whom discharged their weapons.” Patton stated, “Finally, the plaintiffs will point to the fact that there were no pedestrians, automobiles, other folks who were near
CHICAGO (AP)—A Chicago police officer will not be charged in the shooting of a 25-year-old Black man who authorities said was armed with a gun as he ran away from officers, prosecutors announced Dec. 7, the same day the U.S. Justice Department opened an investigation into patterns of racial disparity in the use of force by Chicago police. The investigation, an-
nounced by U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch, comes nearly two weeks after the release of a video showing a White Chicago police officer shooting a Black teenager 16 times. The investigation, which is separate from an existing federal investigation into last year’s shooting death of 17-year-old Laquan McDonald, also will review how the department disciplines officers and handles miscon-
duct accusations. Justice Department officials say they use such patterns-andpractices investigations to identify systemic failings in troubled police departments and to improve trust between police and the communities they serve. “This mistrust from members of the community makes it more difficult to gain help with investigations, to encourage victims and witnesses of crimes to
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McDonald at the time he was shot and as to which he might have posed an imminent danger.” The Better Government Association, an Illinois watchdog group, reported earlier this year that since 2004, Chicago has paid $521.3 million in settlements and legal fees growing out of police misconduct, violence and abuse. Another 500 cases are still pending. BGA reported, “Public records show the city paid $391.5 million in settlements and judgments over the last decade. More than a quarter, or $110.3 million, was related to 24 wrongfulconviction lawsuits. “A dozen of those 24 involved now-imprisoned former Chicago police Cmdr. Jon Burge, whose detectives were accused of torturing confessions out of
mostly Black male suspects over many years. Overall, the city has paid alleged victims of Burge detectives more than $57 million, records show.” The money paid in settlements does not include other costs such as higher insurance premiums and the cost of incarcerating innocent victims. With an extensive juvenile record, Laquan McDonald seemed headed toward a life behind bars. That was compounded—and perhaps caused—by a severely scared childhood. The Chicago Tribune chronicled McDonald’s early obstacles. “According to court records, McDonald’s father abandoned the family and had ‘no presence’ in his life. At 3, McDonald became a ward of the state when the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services took him into protective custody over allegations that his mother had neglected him, according to state records,” the newspaper reported. “He spent about two months in foster care before he was moved to a relative’s home and eventually back to his mother in 2002. But after just a little more than a year, he was again back in foster care when his mother’s boyfriend beat him, causing cuts, welts and bruises, according to the records.” The Tribune continued,
“McDonald was placed with his great-grandmother in 2003, and she eventually became his legal guardian. He lived with her for about a decade before she died in 2013 and he was placed with an uncle.” Ironically, McDonald was in the process of turning around his troubled life when he was shot to death by Officer Van Dyke. “As to damages, although McDonald had an extensive juvenile record, he had recently obtained summer employment through a church social agency’s; and further, in September of 2014, just a month before he was—before he passed, he had enrolled in the Sullivan Alternative School, which is a school for troubled youth, and his mentor there will testify or would testify that McDonald had good grades at the time of his death and was making progress in turning his life around,” Patton testified. His mother’s life appeared to be on a similar trajectory. Patton recounted, “McDonald is survived by his mother and a 15—year old sister. At the time of his death, he was a ward of the state and in the temporary custody of an uncle; however, LaQuan’s mother had initiated a petition to regain custody of LaQuan, and in May of 2014 the Juvenile Court had ordered supervised visits in anticipation of granting her petition.”
speak up, and to fulfill the most basic responsibilities of public safety officials,” Lynch said. “And when suspicion and hostility is allowed to fester, it can erupt into unrest.” Also on Dec. 7, Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez said there would be no charges against Officer George Hernandez in the shooting of 25-year-old Ronald Johnson, whom authorities say
pointed a gun at police before he was killed on Oct. 12, 2014. Alvarez and Assistant State’s Attorney Lynn McCarthy spent more than 30 minutes detailing evidence before showing the video, which similarly to the McDonald case has no dashcam audio; the state’s attorney’s office overlaid police radio communications. The video showed Johnson running from police
across a street with several officers in pursuit, and then one officer shooting. Johnson is not on screen when he was struck by two bullets. The video was also slowed down to show what McCarthy said was a gun in Johnson’s hand. She also said Johnson “ignored” officers’ commands to stop and drop his weapon and had been in a physical altercation with at least one other officer before he was shot.
LAQUAN MCDONALD
Chicago police probe announced; no charges in 2nd shooting
Urban League honors community leaders at gala A4
DECEMBER 9-15, 2015
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event over the 20 years, which confirmed it. While the receptions, the scrumptious food, the silent auction and music by Lyndsey Smith & Soul Distribution were a treat, the highlight of the evening, which was emceed by Andrew Stockey, WTAE news anchor and reporter, was the presentation of the prestigious 2015 Community Leadership Award to honorees Ronald Lawrence, president of 100 Black Men of Western Pennsylvania; Three Rivers Youth (TRY), under the direction of President and CEO Peggy Harris; and Jasiri X, activist, rapper, fellowship recipient and founder of 1 Hood Media Academy. Past honorees include Rev. Dr. Johnnie Monroe, Dr. Larry Davis, Ronald R. Davenport Sr., Helen Faison, the Hill House Association and many more. During the bestowal of the awards, each recipient was introduced by a special video presentation that featured heartfelt remarks about their work. “The Ron Brown Annual Awards Gala is critically important because it gives us an opportunity to show our mission through the work of others. Our mission is to help African Americans achieve economic selfreliance, parity and power, and civil rights,” said Bush. “Ron Lawrence has absolutely done it through his work with 100 Black Men, Peggy Harris has absolutely done it through Three Rivers Youth and all the good things she’s done to help develop our youth, those kids that not too many people are paying much attention to, and of course Jasiri X is an individual that our youth can relate to and pushes them to do something with their lives. I really appreciate the fact that he stands for what is good and what is just for our community. So, I’m very proud of our honorees.” Lawrence, who was recognized for his commitment and decades of service to mentoring, educating and empowering African American youth through 100 Black Men, an organization whose goal is to improve the quality of life within the community and enhance educational and economic opportunities, said he was grateful for the award “We’ve been at this for 30 years now and we’re finally getting some appreciation for it, so that’s fantastic for me. I really appreciate that. It brings to bear all the things we’ve been working
JUDGE DWAYNE WOODRUFF encouraging financial participation. with kids on, in regards to the words of Malcolm X. Education is our future, only those who prepare for it today will be ready for tomorrow, and that’s what we have to work on,” he said. “I grew up in Mississippi, we weren’t allowed to know our history. And when you find out about your history and how important the contributions are that we’ve made to society, it give you that motivation and encouragement to go on and succeed, and that’s what we try to do with our kids.” He said he learned this through people like Brown, though they never met. Like Lawrence, Harris was also grateful to accept the award on behalf of her organization, TRY, which through its services, has provided youth with emergency shelter, congregate care, foster care, life skills training, behavioral health care, and so much more, for 135 years. It is believed to
ESTHER BUSH thanking attendees for their support.
ETTA COX singing the Negro National Anthem.
ANDREW STOCKEY Emcee
be one of the oldest organizations to serve Western Pennsylvania and the second oldest devoted to the welfare of Black children, according to Robert Hill, who made remarks during the video. Harris said, “I’m so honored to accept this award that celebrates the work of Three Rivers Youth and all that we have achieved together. In many ways this honor for us, is the crown glory on many chapters lived. As we end our year of celebration and the closing of those past chapters, we open up new ones for the over 2,000 youth that we serve annually… We don’t do this work because of the accolades and the awards, we do it for the rewards of those who we serve.” Echoing the sentiments of Harris, Jasiri X, who was humbled to be chosen for the award and described it as “the icing on the cake” for the year he has had, also
said he doesn’t do the work he does for the recognition. The recipient of the Robert Rauschenberg Foundation Artist as Activist, BMe and the August Wilson Center for African American Culture Fellowships, and founder of 1 Hood, which teaches youth media literacy, photography, videography, music production, entrepreneurship, and more, said, “I’ve had a tremendous year, personally. I’ve got three fellowships, I’ve traveled around the country and I just put an album out… I still come back to a place where we have the poorest working class Black community in the country. I have a responsibility and we have a responsibility to make Pittsburgh a place that’s most livable for everybody, not just a select few.” Tim Stevens, who made remarks about Jasiri X during the video, said, “Our community has so many problems. The problems in many ways are getting so deeper and wider, and without people like Jasiri X, those problems might not be solved. And hopefully he will be here for many decades to come and continue to help lead, not only the Pittsburgh region, but across the nation.” As Lawrence said in the closing of his speech, “if your actions inspire others to dream more, to learn more, to do more and become more, then you are a leader.” And that is just what all three are. Sponsors of the affair included Peoples Natural Gas, a presenting partner; Howard Hanna Real Estate Services and UPMC, lead partners; Covelli Enterprises/Panera Bread, First Niagra and PNC, community leadership partners; and a host of other local universities and corporations.
JASIRI X WITH WIFE, CELESTE SMITH
THE PACKED BALLROOM (Photos by J. L. Martello)
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Community Calendar CRSP Speaker Series DEC. 10—The University of Pittsburgh School of Work’s Center on Race & Society Problems will host its Fall 2015 Speaker Series from 121:30 p.m. at the University of Pittsburgh, 2017 Cathedral of Learning, Fifth Ave., Oakland. The topic is “Multiracial in the Workplace: A New Kind of Discrimination?” The guest host will be Tanya Hernandez, a professor at Fordham University School of Law. Her scholarly interest is in the study of comparative race relations and anti-discrimination law. A lunch will be provided and registration is not required. For more information, email crsp@pitt.edu.
Promotion Ceremony DEC. 12—The Gateway Medical Society will host its Journey to Medicine Promotion Ceremony from 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. at UPMC Shadyside Hospital, Herberman Conference Center, 5150 Centre Ave., Shadyside. Students will present their special projects as well as be recognized for their participation in this medical program. Reservations are required. For more information, call Tamara Reese at 412-2814086 or email administration@ gatewaymedicalsociety.org.
Coats & Cocktails DEC. 17—The Pittsburgh Black Media Federation will host its “Coats & Cocktails” holiday happy hour and coat drive from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Savoy Restaurant, 2623 Penn Ave., Strip District. Guests will enjoy a laid-back vibe, great music, complimentary hors d’oeuvres for the first happy hour and drink specials. Donations of coats and accessories will go to Gwen’s Girls. For more information, email Bofta Yimam at specialevents@pbmf.org.
Operation Home DEC. 19—The Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh will host its Operation Home Program from 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. at the Urban League, 2nd floor, 610 Wood St., Downtown. This intense monthly seminar on homeownership is designed to educate prospective homebuyers and arm them with the basic knowledge to navigate the path to mortgage qualification and maintaining homeownership. The program includes one eight-hour workshop and a follow-up one on one counseling session. Registration is requested. For more information, call Paulette Tarrant at 412-227-4815. (To have items listed on Community Calendar, send information at least two weeks in advance to: 315 E. Carson St., Pittsburgh, PA 15219; Fax: 412-481-1360 or email: newsroom@newpittsburghcourier.com.)
$200,000 each for professional & technical services, and property services; almost $680,000 for supplies, and less than $10,000 for other services. The “property” line item shows a nearly $220,000 decrease. Indeed, neither an expanded facility nor moving to a model of “continuous recruitment” the chief said he would like to see is listed among the bureau’s 2016 Strategic Initiatives. Those are: Increasing data-driven community policing by improving analytic capacity, which will have a technical and training component; Continuing to expand efforts to bridge or reduce the confidence gap between the police and citizens, communities and visitors served; Expanding surveys to measure both internal and external opinions about the Bureau of Police to both measure progress and redefine goals; Maintaining focus on accountability systems to increase public confidence in the Bureau and reduce stress on the officers; and Continuing to support civilianization in order to use sworn personnel in law enforcement required positions. The 2016 capital budget is likewise devoid of such a facility. The only property related item in the capital budget for public safety is $2 million for demolition of condemned buildings. Though the mayor was not available for comment,
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United Way to invest millions in 5-year plan for youth CONTINUED FROM A1
local agencies to implement five strategies that will ensure children in the region develop skills to help them become successful adults. “We set out aggressive goals based on things that we think we could actually achieve,” said DeSeyn. She said that progress will be examined on the yearly basis to make sure that execution is on track with the goals. The strategies for the five year goals include registering over 50,000 students for kindergarten on time, teaching healthier nutrition and exercise habits, promoting school success through inspiring daily attendance, pairing 5,000 students with 5,000 mentors, tutors and early grade
readers and delivering quality after school and summer programming. Wendy Etheridge Smith, executive director of Higher Achievement Pittsburgh said she applauds the efforts of the United Way and how it uses its resources to invest in children and their families. “Good wrap-around programs like mentoring and after school programs and exposure to careers can really have an impact to open the mind and open the developmental trajectory for lives,” Smith said. Arsenal Middle School in Lawrenceville utilizes the “Be a Middle School Mentor” program from United Way. “On the days the mentors are coming to see the students, we don’t have to
worry about disciplinary or attendance issues. Those kids care about the appointments so much,” said principal Patti Camper. The mentoring program began with sixth-graders, and the students from the pilot group are set to graduate. As a result, United Way has engaged University of Pittsburgh for a “large study” to evaluate the success rates of the students that have had mentors. During the conference, Brashear High School graduate, now CCAC student, Jhenae Youngblood shared her struggle during her junior year of high school after she gave birth to her son. She received guidance from a United Way volun-
teer and subsequently became a “Be There” ambassador in her senior year to assist other students facing similar situations. “Knowing that someone else cares about you, it helps you want to help others stay in school,” said Youngblood. “If you want to have impact, it is going to take the relationships that United Way is talking about in their plans and programming,” said Smith, “there needs to be awareness and great adult mentors.” Patrick Dowd, executive director of Allies for Children, said that United Way’s proposal that encourages corporations to request their employees to volunteer time provides resources for children that they would
not have had access. “What’s really great is when we can build relations between adults and children. When there is a firm and its employees go and adopt a school, you’re building relations between people who might not have otherwise been connected, said Dowd. “This idea of relationships that the United Way does on a micro level between an adult and a child, they do it again on a macro level by bringing together these different sectors by helping us work together for this common goal of improving lives for kids here in Allegheny County,” said Dowd. (Samson X Horne is a contributing writer to the New Pittsburgh Courier. He can be reached at samson.x.horne@gmail.com.)
Byrdsong calls for Homewood Community Benefits Agreement CONTINUED FROM A1
“We’ve got Black people sitting at the table saying they represent our interests who are really just representing themselves negotiating for themselves politically getting their hands and their palms greased.” Byrdsong said it’s time to hold these people to account. “If all these millions of dollars are being invested in the community, why does it still look like this?” he said. “We’re going to talk to Mr. PNC and Mr. Citizens and ask these investors and bankers, all this money you’re putting into the Black community—who are you giving it to? And then we’ll hold them accountable. We’ll do a matrix of all the money coming to the community and who it’s going to.” Byrdsong said he didn’t understand how there’s a $50 million job in East Liberty and another in Lincoln-Larimer and people in Homewood are broke and there is double-digit unemployment. “Anyone who brings resources to the Black community has to sit down with the community—with us,” he said. “I say us because—your so-called leaders, they aren’t here are they? But at the meetings that’s who say they represent our community.” Byrdsong also noted that no representatives from the nonprofit community were present either. No nonprofits—which get paid millions to provide services to you, are any of them here? No,” he said. “There’s a lot of games going on here People playing games with our lives.”
COMMUNITY SPEAKS OUT—Many of the residents of the East End came out to voice their views on development of that area of the city. (Photo by J. L. Martello) The days of blind political allegiance, he said, is over. We want legislation. If they don’t push it, we don’t support them. Next time the politicians come in, I’ll have a report card on all of them. He singled out city councilman Rev. Ricky Burgess—the only politician to attend, calling on him to convene a public hearing with council and the mayor on dismantling systemic institutional racial bias that prevent Blacks from participating and prospering. “I’d like that to be in the Black community, not downtown in council chambers,” he said. Byrdsong also provided a petition for people to sign to request that meeting be convened. Several speakers sup-
No new police training facility in city budget CONTINUED FROM A1
DECEMBER 9-15, 2015
METRO
spokesman Tim McNulty said he and the Chief remain committed to increased recruiting. “The 2016 budget seeks to bring on 120 recruits next year—the equivalent of three classes—through the use of the city’s current training facilities and finding a new facility, perhaps at a vacant school or another site, in the coming year,” he
said. “To get ahead of that issue the Administration is hiring 248 recruits from 2014-2016, whereas in the previous five years only 136 recruits were hired.” McNulty said a consultant has been hired to help identify a possible location for a new location for an expanded training facility. (Send comments to cmorrow@newpittsburghcourier.com.)
ported that and others advocated for advocated a “public bank” approach that would give the community oversight of development loans. More than one singled out burgess, but Byrdsong said that is unfair because people like State Senator Jay Costa and U.S. Rep. Mike Doyle also represent the area. Dennis Richardson urged going old school. “I’ve been look for job long time and so have a lot of young guys here,” he said. “If these jobs won’t hire us, picket them. Shut them down. If they’re in our community and we can’t get jobs then you don’t build s—t. Simple as that.” Reverend Burgess declined comment on the meeting. (J.L. Martello contributed to this story.)
Burgess, Lavelle to augment MWDBE budget CONTINUED FROM A1
tract review specialist, an outreach & market Analysis manager, and a now funded Diversity & Inclusion manager—one more staffer than in previous years. As now configured, two staffers formerly assigned to the Equal Opportunity Review Commission—which was absorbed by the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment two years ago—are tasked with analyzing all contracts to make sure they meet MWDBE inclusion goals. The Diversity and Inclusion manager supervises that work. However, Roberts said, that manager has other duties within the department as well. “So, while we have a net gain of one person in the department, we only have 2.5 people doing what five people used to do at the old EORC,” she said. Given the importance of this work—and the coming addition of monitoring of all city authority contracts for the first time— neither Burgess nor Lavelle considered the management arrangement ideal. “In terms of participation roles of the city, your office is the most important,” said Lavelle. “I’d like to see a full-time manager for this work. I want to work with council and the budget office to see you are funded at the appropriate level for that.” Reverend Burgess agreed that with the additional responsibility of monitoring authority contract compliance, a full time manager should be in place. “Your work has to cross lines,” he said. “And the (Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh) and the (Urban Redevelopment Authority) have to be a part of it. I will work to see what we can do to tweak the budget to add a full time manager.”
Roberts said she would certainly support amending the budget for that purpose, especially since her department’s mandate and responsibilities are broader than when it was originally created. “Ours is a holistic approach, a wraparound resource for the whole city,” she said. “We were originally created to address low-income neighborhoods, but we now serve any community that has an area in which it is underserved.” Those areas include housing, education, workforce development, and immigrant and refugee outreach and support. Neither Burgess nor Lavelle asked about possible budgeting shortfalls related to the, as yet undetermined, number of Muslim refugees from Syria that the mayor, Gov. Tom Wolf and Pres. Barack Obama have pledged to settle in Pittsburgh. Since the massive migration has occurred since the budget was proposed, there is no funding for resettlement. The recent terrorist attacks in Paris, France, and San Bernardino, Calif., have also raised safety concerns. Roberts said her assistant director Betty Cruz is coordinating with federal authorities on resettling refugees locally, and that a coalition of 27 different religious denominations and the foundation community will assist with settlement and funding. “No one, certainly not the mayor would do anything to endanger our residents,” she said. “This has got to be a broadly received approach, and the city will be better for it. The bottom line is it will work and it will be a success.” (Send comments burghcourier.com.)
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DECEMBER 9-15, 2015
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
OPINION
We need God at the table
Guest Editorial
Chicago’s Rahm Emanuel should resign as mayor That Philadelphia Police Chief Charles Ramsey says he would be “happy” to assist Chicago, “in terms of consulting or advice” following its top cop’s resignation, probably brings some comfort to embattled Mayor Rahm Emanuel. But it doesn’t address one of the main problems of Chicago’s official response to the shooting of 16-year-old Laquan McDonald. And that’s Rahm Emanuel. He must go. Defendant and former Chicago police officer Jason Van Dyke may have worked under the supervision of police superintendent Garry McCarthy, whose resignation Emanuel sought and received last week. But let’s be clear, this cover-up stinks all the way to the top. An important video was kept from public viewing for 15 months before a dogged reporter won her right-to-know request. Once released, the footage appeared with missing audio and long minutes. Then City Council cut a fat $5 million check to the former foster youth’s non-guardian mother. A city that closed 50 public schools can afford to award big money without a recipient even asking for it? How often does that happen? Emanuel must have known of the wrongful incident. Not only must he have known, he must have approved or even ordered it be hidden. Ramsey’s term in Philadelphia is set to come to a close in January. His hard-earned reputation for trust and respect would be a foil for the lack of trust Chicagoans now feel for those in high positions of authority there. In fact, Emanuel’s resignation should be a twofer. Attach with it, the farewell papers of Cook County State’s Attorney’s Anita Alvarez, who took her sweet time in announcing charges. “We were leaving no stone unturned,” she told the media. Alvarez is the first woman and first Hispanic to serve as Cook County State’s Attorney. But she must have mistakenly made herself an honorary member of the old boys’ club, because nothing about her color and minority status resulted in her taking an approach other than the traditional one—following the thin blue line that has cut into the backs of people of color for centuries. Emanuel has refused calls to resign – from a New York Times op-ed, from members of Black Lives Matter and from participants on social media who’ve been typing “#resignrahm.” “We have a process called the election,” Emanuel reportedly responded at a Politico event. “The voters spoke. I’ll be held accountable for the decisions and actions that I make.” Well, it’s time for the voters to raise their voices again, if not at the polls, then with fists in the air, demanding, it’s time for Emanuel to go. (Reprinted from the Philadephia Tribune.)
Pittsburgh Courier NEW
Founded 1910
Rod Doss
Editor & Publisher Stephan A. Broadus Assistant to the Publisher
Allison Palm
Eric Gaines
Office Manager
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Ulish Carter
Ashley Johnson Associate Editor
Managing Editor
Jeff Marion Circulation Consultant
John H. Sengstacke Editor & Publisher Emeritus (1912-1997)
The large churches have received much criticism for not being involved in the community, and not being a part of the solutions of street and domestic violence as well as police/community relations. But recently Rodman Missionary Baptist Church became one of the few big churches to become directly involved in seeking a solution to these problems when they invited the police command in the East End area to church. When I say church I mean church. Not only was the chief, and commanders there as well as other police officers but also they prayed, and sang and worshipped with the congregation. This allowed the congregation and the police to understand that they are all people, and they all want the same thing. Peace in the community. Reverend Darryl Canady, the pastor of Rodman, is to be commended for his efforts. Hopefully some or all of the other big churches will follow his leadership. But better yet, why not unite and instead of individual churches doing this a group of churches do it together. I’m not just saying a meeting with the police but community meetings with the police, city officials, nonprofit groups, businesses and the youth of the community. The churches have the space because the pews are not being used during the week. Why the churches? For the same reason they led during the 60s. They are not dependent on government money or politicians, nor are they dependent on big business or corporate money, and they are closer to the community through their congregation. But the main reason is they are suppose to represent God. If the problems of unemployment, under employment, street and domestic violence is going to be solved it must come from government, nonprofits, businesses and the church working together. God must be a part
Ulish Carter
Just Sayin’
ative. Some of that positive news was created and has been created over the years by people like Esther Bush, and Laura Mitchell-Dendy who set aside Thanksgiving not just for her family but to help others and Capa Davis who provided the finance for it. There are other people doing the same thing and should be recognized for it, not because they want recognition, but because people need to know that there’s still good people in this world who care for others and are doing something about it. But these people will never receive recognition because far too many of us believe that it’s not news unless it’s negative. Now for the negative news. My prayers go out to the family and friends of the 14 dead and 17 wounded in the California shooting. The husband and wife duo that did the shooting are also dead. It really makes you wonder how can a person who works with people all day, day in and day out can just walk in and gun them down like they were nothing. What religion could possibly condone killing other innocent people in cold-blood. But then again so-called Christians justified slavery, and hangings, and racism as a whole. I wonder if any of these so-called radical people, Christians or Muslims, bother to read the Bible or the Koran, which are based on love, to find out and understand what God is saying or do they just go by what they are told. I know I was shocked several years back when I took my own poll of people in the church that didn’t read let alone study the Bible who called themselves Christians. Are so-called Muslims any different? Where are they getting this kill everything that is not pure Islamic from? Where did the Christians get it? Remember the Crusades? Remember early America when it was OK to kill Indians or enslave Blacks because they were “heathens.”
of the solutions. Remember Reverend Martin Luther King Jr.? Reverend Ralph Abernathy? Reverend Joseph Lowry? Reverend Jesse Jackson? Minister Malcolm X? Minister Louis Farrakhan? The list goes on. So hopefully more ministers throughout the country will start becoming leaders in the fight to save our children and bring God to the table. That’s what’s been missing at a lot of these community meetings. *** The Pittsburgh branch of the Urban League is to be commended once again under the leadership of Esther Bush. Instead of trying to keep control of it and receive all the glory, it started up a Charter School under its name but now that it has grown and is accomplishing much of what it set out to do; they are spinning it off with a new board and new name for it to become independent and stand on its own. I wish all the luck and success in the world to CEO and Principal Gail Edwards. And Kudos also must go out to Pittsburgh Public Schools Superintendent Linda Lane. Instead of criticizing the school she commended it and said that PPS will use some of the successful programs and methods of the Urban League School. Thus keeping what works and getting rid of what doesn’t. *** We get so much negative in our news these days that some people don’t see it as news unless someone has been killed, shot, mother left her child in the car while she went shopping. But (Ulish Carter is the managing editor of the news should be both positive and neg- New Pittsburgh Courier.)
It’s time for answers in Laquan McDonald case (GEORGE CURRY MEDIA)—There will be no justice for Laquan McDonald. He is dead, shot 16 times point blank by a Chicago police officer. Now, after more than a year, after a dashboard camera video was released by judicial order, the police officer who shot him has been charged with murder. But this is only a first step. For Chicago to heal, many unanswered questions and many unmet problems must be addressed. Disciplined, nonviolent protests have demanded answers. Now it is time for action. This is not simply a case of one bad cop. Nine police officers were on the scene, yet not one reported the police violence. Instead, a police union spokesman alleged that McDonald lunged at the police with a knife. That false statement went unchallenged. Why? Witnesses were on the scene. But according to various accounts, the police shooed them away without collecting names and questioning them. Why? The audio from the dashboard camera was indecipherable — as was that of four other dashboard cameras at the scene. According to a district manager, the relevant portion of a video from the security camera of a nearby Burger King went missing after the police were given access to it. Why? The city fought to conceal the video, contesting Freedom of Information
Jesse Jackson Sr.
Commentary
The mayor says this was the act of one bad police officer who will now face a jury of his peers. The tape shows us who did the shooting. But the question is who contributed to what looks inescapably like a concerted cover-up. This can’t be business as usual. If Chicago is to heal, the truth must come out. The protests have made three basic and sensible demands. First, appoint an independent special prosecutor to insure a fair prosecution. Second, the federal investigation should probe not only the shooting of Laquan McDonald but also what appears to be the effort to cover it up. Those implicated from top to bottom should be held accountable. Third, we need a new police chief and a new police culture. New leadership and comprehensive reform are vital if trust is to be rebuilt. These are essential and inescapable. Real healing requires even more. We must move from reform to reconstruction. We need a national commission on urban reconstruction. We cannot expect police to provide security in oceans of despair. We need action on housing, schools and jobs. If Chicago is to heal, the police must regain our trust, and the people must regain some hope.
Act lawsuits by independent journalists, by the Wall Street Journal and by the Chicago Tribune. Yet the mayor pushed the City Council to vote a $5 million settlement for the McDonald family before they had even filed a lawsuit. The settlement apparently included an agreement to keep the video secret. Why? The contrast with last summer’s Cincinnati case could not be starker. When Samuel DuBose was fatally shot on camera by a University of Cincinnati police officer during a routine traffic stop, the video contradicted the officer’s claim that he had been dragged along the street by DuBose’s car. The video was released, and the officer was charged with murder and fired in less than two weeks. Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez brought charges only after a court ordered the release of the video, after an (Jesse L. Jackson Sr. is founder and presiinvestigation taking more than 13 dent of the Chicago-based Rainbow PUSH months. Coalition. You can keep up with his work at Why? www.rainbowpush.org)
What did Black pastors gain from meeting with Trump? by Bill Fletcher Jr. (NNPA)—I have to confess that in light of the history of what has happened to African Americans, I am regularly shocked when I hear the voices of Black conservatives. I find myself asking, “How can they actually believe that?” An example is when I try listening to Dr. Ben Carson. The recent meeting between presidential candidate Donald Trump and over one hundred Black pastors raised this question to an even higher level. I asked myself, what is there to discuss with Trump? I meant that. In light of his various pronouncements, distortions and demagoguery, much of which is racially inflammatory, what is there to discuss? Yet, when I was watching CNN at a restaurant and seeing pictures of some of the participants in the meeting—and recognizing one—a few thoughts clicked. I saw him only for a moment, but it was the face of a minister I met at least a decade ago. I had never actually known his political leanings until I ran into him at an airport a few years back. He
began an energized attack on President Obama, sounding very much like a Tea Party Republican. He was homophobic, anti-immigrant, and anti-worker. I quickly realized that we shared little in common except our African heritage. Seeing that particular minister reminded me that in the recesses of Black America there are some very conservative individuals, some of whom claim religious inspiration. This hit me in the 1980s when there was a right-wing, pro-Ronald Reagan, Black ministerial turnout in support of a United States tour of the notorious Angolan rebel leader, the late Jonas Savimbi. Savimbi, who allied himself with the racist Apartheid regime of pre-1994 South Africa, carried out a murderous campaign against the internationally recognized government of Angola. Seemingly out of thin air, right-wing Black ministers came forward to give this butcher their endorsement and to support Reagan’s efforts to prop up this insurgent. In seeing the face of the pastor that I knew on CNN, I remembered this tendency. Nevertheless, I felt like some-
one needs to ask those who wish to speak with Donald Trump a few questions, such as: Why? What is there to discuss with someone who repeatedly propped up Birther allegations regarding the legitimacy of President Obama as a citizen of the U.S.? What is there to say to someone who suggests that Mexican immigrants bring crime, but is silent on the criminal gangs long associated with European immigrants? What is there to say to someone who insists that he has seen something that did not happen, i.e., Arabs and Muslims IN THE U.S. dancing after 9/11 in New Jersey? What is there to say to someone who promotes the lie that Blacks are the perpetrators of most of the killings of Whites? Add it up yourself and ask what is there to be gained from such a discussion, even if you happen to be someone of the conservative persuasion? (Bill Fletcher Jr. is the host of The Global African on Telesur-English. Follow him on Twitter, Facebook and at www.billfletcherjr.com.)
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
FORUM
Murder cover-up in Chicago
We are because of the faith of our fathers
(GEORGE CURRY MEDIA)—As more information emerges in connection with Chicago Police Officer Jason Van Dyke’s fatal shooting of 17year-old Laquan McDonald on Oct. 20, 2014, the more it appears that not only was an unjustified murder committed by a person who had sworn to uphold the law, there was a cover-up at every level. Even worse, the cover-up seems to be still in effect today as Mayor Rahm Emanuel and other officials scramble to cover their tracks. Let’s start with the videotaped incident itself. Perhaps the most illuminating public account of the shooting thus far was provided by Stephen Patton, head of the city’s law department, when he appeared at the City Council’s Finance Committee hearing on April 13, 2015. In urging the city to settle the case out of court for $5 million, he noted that Van Dyke, referred to in his testimony as Officer A, was culpable because: McDonald did not pose an immediate threat to Van Dyke; McDonald was walking away from Van Dyke at the time he was fatally shot; None of the other five officers on the scene saw fit to fire their weapons at McDonald, including Van Dyke’s partner; No other people were ever placed in danger and The use of deadly force in this case was unwarranted. For the past year, Illinois and federal authorities have supervised a joint grand jury. As proceedings dragged on, Mayor Rahm Emanuel doggedly resisted all calls to release dash-camera video of the shooting. After privately viewing the video, however, city officials acted quickly when attorneys representing the estate of the dead teen approached the mayor’s office about reaching a financial settlement. The city was in deep negotiations with attorneys for McDonald’s estate while the mayor was facing a tough re-election fight and eventual
As I sat in vided for. church last Louis ‘Hop’ Kendrick These men Sunday listenran the ing to my mingamut; they ister, Rev. were God Mario Murfearing and phy, he asked church goers, the congregaGod fearing, tion to open but did not the hymnal to go to church, page 191 but I had limited happened to focus on page 192, and education but could read, write and the title caught my eyes. The title count and the overwhelming majorwas “FAITH OF OUR FATHERS” ity lived by the established creed and with no hesitation an inner that they were their brother’s voice said to me, “that is next week’s keeper. column.” I had always worshiped my father Almost every month you read or and believed him to be the greatest hear about some new organization father a family could have. However or foundation that in all probability over the course of my life God placed have the best of intentions, and is a number of individuals in my life, emphasizing the importance of who felt identically about their fahelping our children. The concentra- thers, too many to name, because I tion starts with pre-school and con- would miss a number of them, so I tinues through high school and the will just list two, one male and one potential results as worthwhile as female. The male person is the “Moore of they possibly may be will take at least twenty years. My question is Pittsburgh“ Chris Moore, king of the what about opportunities being af- talk shows on radio and television, forded our Black men now that who constantly talks about his facould possibly enable us to have a ther. The female is Bev Smith, the positive impact on our children? It has always been a contention of queen of the national talk show, and mine that a strong, caring and lov- her favorite quote when talking ing father is the key to a stabile and about her father is to remind me that she has a praying mother. functioning family. Yes, we are, because of the faith of I was born and raised in a neighborhood where the men would make our fathers. (Louis “Hop” Kendrick is a weekly consure the widows, children, handicapped and seniors would be pro- tributor to the Forum page.)
George E. Curry
Commentary run-off with Jesus Garcia. A final deal was struck April 8, a day after Emanuel’s re-election. Five days later, the proposed settlement was presented to the Chicago City Council Finance Committee. Relying on the testimony of corporation counsel Patton, the City Council agreed to a $5 million settlement without a lawsuit being filed or members of City Council looking at the incriminating tape. There is little doubt that if the videotape had surfaced during the height of Emanuel’s re-election campaign, he would not have won a second term. So, he directed his corporate counsel to fight all efforts to have the tape released. Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez, who is up for re-election next year, said City Hall made the decision to withhold the videotape from the public. “They asked us our position in telephone calls — we said it was not our preference to release it, but it was ultimately their decision because of the FOIA,” Alvarez spokeswoman Sally Daly told POLITICO. “We’re not party to the litigation on the FOIA.” But nothing prevented Alverez from releasing the incriminating tape. More than a dozen Freedom of Information Act requests had been filed seeking release of the tape, but it took a lawsuit by Brandon Smith, a freelance journalist, to compel its disclosure under public records laws. Cook County Judge Franklin Valderrama ruled that the police department could not use an ongoing investigation as a reason to lawfully withhold the video because other law enforcement agencies, not the department itself, were conducting the investigation. The dramatic footage shows McDonald walking away from Van Dyke when the policeman opened fire, striking the teen at least 16 times, including after his motionless body was already sprawled on the ground. Just before release of the videotape, Alvarez hurriedly did what she could have done all along—she charged Van Dyke independent of the grand jury with first-degree murder. A separate Cook County grand jury has been convened and is expected to formally charge Van Dyke with first-degree murder, which carries a punishment of 20 years to life. Meanwhile, the mayor forced and accepted the resignation of Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy, citing a loss of public confidence. The mayor has appointed a new police accountability task force to examine the McDonald case and other department issues. One of those issues involves surveillance footage from a nearby Burger King. The manager told Chicago NBC/5 that officers entered the fast food eatery the night of the shooting and when they left, 86 minutes of video appeared to be missing. Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan has asked the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division to review Chicago’s police department’s practices, a move Emanuel has labeled as misguided. The mayor said in a statement, “First and foremost, we need answers as to what happened in the Laquan McDonald case, which is why the United States attorney should swiftly conclude his year-long investigation and shed light on what happened that night, and the actions of everyone involved.” We already know what happened that fatal night. And we also know that Rahm Emanuel fought every step of the way to keep the video of what happened that night out of public view. Now that he has forced his top cop to resign, citizens should force Emanuel to leave office as well. (George E. Curry is president and CEO of George Curry Media, LLC. He is the former editor-in-chief of Emerge magazine and the NNPA. He can be reached through his Web site, georgecurry.com.)
To Tell The Truth
Black pastors and the money changers In 2006 Sendress specific ator Barack J. Pharoah Doss concerns of Obama met the group. with former But politics Senate Demoaside it’s a dicratic leader alogue desTom Daschle. perately Obama was needed in a contemplatcommunity ing a presithat has dential run. voted demoAnd what Daschle saw in Obama cratic to its own detriment because was a chance for the Democratic it believes a democratic failed policy Party to start anew and avoid a is better than a Republican alternathird Clinton presidency. tive. Daschle knew after eight years of Other Black pastors should have the Bush administration the Ameri- encouraged this dialogue or asked can voters were not going to elect for an invitation regardless of their another Republican. personal politics. Imagine if 1,000 The next president was going to be Black pastors met with the Republidecided in the Democratic primary. can presidential frontrunner, all Daschle encouraged Obama to run, other Republican candidates would and he had a simple suggestion for have wanted to meet next, and most his former colleagues. It was ABC, importantly the Democratic Party anybody but Clinton. would realize the Black vote is not But during Obama’s presidency guaranteed. the Democrats lost over 900 state But that didn’t happen. Instead of legislative seats, 12 gubernatorial political support the one hundred elections, 69 house seats, and 13 Black pastors were chastised in an Senate seats which encouraged 17 open letter via Ebony magazine Republicans to run for president in from “more than 100 Black religious 2016. leaders and scholars.” The open letWhy so many? ter asked: Will the gospel be present The results of mid-term and state at your [meeting] with Trump? Or elections proved the American peo- will the integrity of the Black ple were voting Democrats out of of- church be ruined because it is prifice. Republican’s felt history was marily concerned with creating alrepeating but this time the presi- liances with powerful people who dency would be decided in their pri- care more about buying votes than mary. (And the simple suggestion they do securing material equity? from Democratic strategists was let Will we be a church that thinks acClinton take the fall in the general tively about the ways that unreguelection.) lated capitalism brings great harm Now suppose there was a hypo- to the communities we serve? Then thetical group of Black pastors, they urged the one hundred pastors lifelong Democrats, but they be- invited by Trump to return to the lieved their party didn’t have a tra- revolutionary politics of our reliditional Democrat seeking the gious roots. They also stated a nomination. meeting with Trump would de-radiThey’re not interested in endors- calize the Black prophetic political ing the progressive politics of the tradition. To stand with Jesus is to front runner or the socialist con- have great skepticism about syscepts of an independent posing as a tems of power and a willingness to Democrat for the presidency. And question the motives of the powerthis group was aware of the data ful. that suggested the winner of the ReBut Jesus also overturned the tapublican primary will be the next bles of the money changers. In president. Wouldn’t it be in their order for him to do that he had to be best interest to meet with the Re- standing at the table. If you pay publican candidates? (Lobbying close attention to the biblical story firms contribute to both parties be- his disciples were not standing with cause somebody has to win and they him. Do you think they tried to perwant access to the office holder.) suade Jesus not to enter the temple Recently one hundred Black pas- and suggested he stand outside with tors were invited to meet with Re- a protest sign that read: How dare publican presidential frontrunner you turn my father’s house into a Donald Trump. market? (J. Pharoah Doss is a contributor to the There was some confusion about if the meeting was an endorsement or New Pittsburgh Courier. He blogs at a meeting for the candidate to ad- jpharoahdoss@blogspot.com)
Commentary
Letters to the editor for publication The New Pittsburgh Courier welcomes all responsible viewpoints for publication. All letters should be typewritten and contain writer’s address and phone number for verification. All letters will be edited for clarity and length. Address all letters to: Letters to the Editor New Pittsburgh Courier, 315 East Carson Street Pittsburgh, Pa. 15219 You may fax your letter to 412-481-1360, or via e-mail to letters@newpittsburghcourier.com.
DECEMBER 9-15, 2015
A7
Marian Wright Edelman
Child Watch
Who put the NRA in charge of our national security? (GEORGE CURRY MEDIA)—“I have supported legislation in the past which would place reasonable and careful restrictions on the use of firearms, and I am co-sponsoring S.1...I believe this bill would impose necessary controls without unduly curtailing the use of firearms for legitimate sport shooting or hunting, and without curtailing the lawful activity of sport gun clubs. Basically this legislation would only subject deadly weapons to the same control we have always imposed on automobiles, liquor or prescription drugs. The use and sale of these items are carefully regulated by Federal, State, and local government. The same should be true of firearms.”—Senator Robert F. Kennedy, May 2, 1967 With the echo of gunshots from the San Bernardino massacre ricocheting across the country, and another American community reeling with new broken hearts, it sounds like a reasonable plea for common sense legislation a responsible lawmaker might make today. Since Robert Kennedy’s and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s 1968 deaths, more than 164,000 children have died from gun violence in America—three times more than all the American soldiers killed in action in the Vietnam War and every external conflict since. In the decades since the deaths of Senator Kennedy and Dr. King very little has changed. Mass shootings have become the new normal. Since the beginning of this year we’ve had on average more than one a day. After a new mass shooting makes headlines our national discussion of gun violence feels and sounds like a broken record stuck on one horrifying song that never ends. The president expresses his outrage that these tragedies continue to happen and calls on the public to push Congress and state legislatures to do the right thing. Members of Congress release proposals without a clear timetable for a vote or a path to passage. Public support for gun safety measures swells. The gun lobby pushes back, accusing those who seek reform of politicizing tragedy while continuing their relentless work to loosen restrictions on the deadly weapons that continue the carnage. Broken families and communities struggle to pick up the pieces after the media leaves town. These horrible mass shootings that destroy and shake up so many lives with ever-increasing frequency tell only part of the tragic cost of gun violence that pervades our cities and towns every single day across our nation. Data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control earlier this year show there was a death by a gun every 16 minutes and a child or teen was killed or injured by a gun every 30 minutes in 2013. More than 2,400 children and teens died from guns, enough to fill 122 classrooms of 20 children. Why in God’s name are we so reticent to stand up to the pro-gun lobby when American children are 18 times more likely to die by a gun than children in 25 other high -income nations? Are we so spiritually dead that the killing of children has become routine and unimportant? Where is the faith community? Recent gun violence prevention research should help point the way forward. A recent study found that a Connecticut law that expanded background checks to all handgun purchases helped achieve a 40 percent reduction in gun homicides during the first 10 years following the law’s enactment. Another study reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association Internal Medicine found states with background checks on private as well as online gun sales had 16 percent lower gun fatality rates. Some say that background checks alone will not prevent every gun tragedy and they won’t, but they are a critically important step forward. We need more research on laws, other policies, and technologies that might save more lives. Proposals to require background checks for ammunition sales, impose a tax on ammunition, require liability insurance for guns, and smart gun technologies all merit immediate attention. Sadly, the National Rifle Association, other members of the gun lobby, and their cowardly allies in Congress and in many state legislatures have barred the CDC from conducting research and sharing the truth about the impact of on gun violence on our nation‘s public health since the mid-1990’s and imposed similar restrictions on the National Institutes of Health in 2011 due to fears that research might show concrete ways to reduce its deadly impacts. Just this week physicians’ organizations including Doctors for America, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Medical Student Association, and others delivered a petition to Congress from more than 2,000 doctors in all 50 states and the District of Columbia urging Congress to remove these barriers and provide funding for such research. Why is the NRA afraid of the truth? Is it because they fear the research may show concrete ways to reduce the impact of guns that sapped 33,169 lives in America in 2013 and injured 83,075 yet remain the only unregulated consumer product? It makes no sense to regulate toy guns that kill not a single person and let real guns that should only be in the hands of the military kill tens of thousands annually. We should protect human beings rather than guns. (Marian Wright Edelman is president of the Children’s Defense Fund.)
A8
DECEMBER 9-15, 2015
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
NATIONAL
Backlash over Common Core extends to U.S. Catholic schools by Carolyn Thompson Associated Press Writer
The backlash against standardized testing is rippling through some Roman Catholic schools as they balance the college-driven Common Core learning standards with spiritual goals. The Diocese of Albany announced recently that it
schools to get kids into college,” Guernsey said. “We open Catholic schools to get them into heaven.” About 1.9 million students around the U.S. are enrolled in 6,568 Catholic schools, most of them elementary schools, according to the National Catholic Education Association. They haven’t been immune to the outcry
“We don’t open Catholic schools to get kids into college. We open Catholic schools to get them into heaven.” DAN GUERNSEY, director of K-12 programming at the Cardinal Newman Society will reduce the frequency of the Common Core-aligned tests while sticking with the standards, which spell out skills students should master at each grade level from kindergarten through high school. “Although the standards of the Common Core itself are good, the collateral pieces have caused great strife for families and teachers,” Superintendent Michael Pizzingrillo said. The number of dioceses that have opted out of using either the standards, tests or both hasn’t been officially tracked while states have phased them in over the past five years. Surveys showed about half of the 195 U.S. dioceses—which like other private schools are not obligated to use the standards— initially adopting them, the National Catholic Educational Association said. “Right now, Catholic schools are still trying to figure out how they respond to the Common Core and how deeply they embrace it,” said Dan Guernsey, director of K-12 programming at the Cardinal Newman Society. The focus, he said, has to remain on the development of students’ “mind, body and spirit.” “We don’t open Catholic
over high-stakes testing roiling public schools. “Many parents are listening to the news. They see the political charge,” said Sister John Mary Fleming, executive director for education at the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. “What this situation has done is created an opportunity for Catholic schools to review our mission: What is our mission and how does the curriculum support that mission?” The conference urges education leaders to review the standards but notes that rejecting them could put students at a disadvantage later in high school. Fleming said individual dioceses have chosen a variety of approaches to the Common Core, either adopting or adapting them in part or as a whole, or, in places including Denver and Lansing, Michigan, staying away from them altogether. The Albany diocese’s decision to change its testing schedule coincides with a call by Gov. Andrew Cuomo for “a total reboot” of the Common Core after his state became the epicenter of anti-testing sentiment. An unprecedented 20 percent of public school students statewide opted out of
NEW HAVEN, Conn. (AP)—Ivy League universities are parting ways with the title of “master” for leaders of residential colleges, a label with roots stretching back to the universities of medieval Europe that many now see as evoking slavery. Harvard and Princeton have eliminated the title, and Yale is weighing whether to change it. Although the master title has long been a source of misgivings, with some hold-
Stephen Davis, a professor who has been known as head of Pierson College since rejecting the title of master. In August, according to the Yale Daily News, he wrote to his college, “I think there should be no context in our society or in our university in which an African American student, professor or staff member— or any person, for that matter —should be asked to call anyone ‘master.”’ Yale President Peter Salovey has said he expects
Ivy League schools ditch ‘master’ title for faculty advisers
“The desire to change this title has taken place over time and has been a thoughtful one, rooted in a broad effort to ensure that the college’s rhetoric, expectations, and practices around our historically unique roles reflects and serves the 21st century needs of residential student life.” HARVARD DEAN RAKESH KHURAN ing the positions preferring to be called by their first names, a push for change gained steam amid protests around the country as colleges moved to address student concerns about inclusiveness and the racial climate on campuses. Undergraduates at the three Ivy League schools are assigned to a number of colleges, where the masters, who are drawn from the university faculty, oversee social and academic programs and serve as advisers. Princeton administrators announced last month that the masters at its six colleges had decided to drop a title they described as anachronistic and historically vexed. “We believe that calling them ‘head of college’ better captures the spirit of their work and their contributions to campus residential life,” Dean Jill Dolan said. At Yale, the current debate picked up with an email from
the university to make a decision on the issue before the summer. Last month he announced several other changes including a new center devoted to race and ethnicity and new faculty positions dedicated to the histories, lives and cultures of under-represented communities. Harvard announced last week that it plans to change the term “house master” for a new title to be determined later. “The desire to change this title has taken place over time and has been a thoughtful one, rooted in a broad effort to ensure that the college’s rhetoric, expectations, and practices around our historically unique roles reflects and serves the 21st century needs of residential student life,” Harvard Dean Rakesh Khurana wrote to students. “The house masters feel confident that a change in title at this point in time makes sense on very many levels.”
ACCELERATED LEARNING—In this Tuesday, Nov. 17, photo, Renee Pascoe works in her seventh grade accelerated math class at Holy Spirit School in East Greenbush, N.Y. (AP Photo/Mike Groll) the mandatory math and English assessments this past spring. A task force is expected to make recommendations this month. Three of the 46 states that originally adopted the Common Core standards have dropped them. More dramatic has been the decline
in membership in the two consortia tasked with creating the assessments, Smarter Balanced and Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers. The number of participating states has fallen from 46 to 22 as states find alternative ways
to meet testing requirements, according to the Education Commission of the States. Pizzingrillo said it’s hoped the Albany diocese’s move away from state tests in its 23 schools will help parents distinguish between the standards, whose focus on
critical thinking is seen as useful, and the tests, which are at the center of so much turmoil. Instead of testing all students in grades three through eight, Albany Catholic schools will, beginning this year, test only those in grades three, five and seven and use a different test to measure student achievement. An initiative by the National Catholic Education Association makes available detailed lesson plans that integrate spiritual components into a standards-based curriculum. A fifth-grade English lesson on the Civil War, for example, incorporates the idea of righteousness, while a fourth-grade geometry lesson uses crosses to demonstrate parallel, perpendicular and intersecting lines. English teacher Meghan Bornhorst said the standards will continue to guide her lessons, even though not all of her students will be directly tested on them. “A lot of students go to public (high) school,” she said. “I don’t want them to go and say, ‘We were supposed to learn this?’” Thompson reported from Buffalo, N.Y.
New Pittsburgh Courier
the new ʻRockyʼ B5
‘Creed’
LIFESTYLES DECEMBER 9-15, 2015
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
Choral Chapter hosts concert B2
Greater Allegheny
B
Debbie Norrell
Lifestyles Report
Shopping out of the box When I heard that the Public Parking Authority was going to offer free parking on Saturdays for the holiday my immediate thought was “where am I going to go, where am I going to shop?” I am so Pittsburgh that I remember the days of Horne’s, Gimbels, Kaufmann’s and Jenkins Arcade. Now, with free parking downtown on a Saturday, the only place that came to my mind was Burlington. Uh no. Not worth going Downtown for. However, on Black Friday I was on a mission not to shop at any big box stores. I didn’t get up at the crack of dawn, nor did I go shopping on Thanksgiving night. Perhaps I am partially cured of my shopping addiction; time will tell. I started my Black Friday shopping by buying Black at the Ujamaa Collective. My good friend, Carol Adams, was along for the trip. I wanted to get there early, as instructed by their Facebook invite; only the first 10 people would get a 10 percent discount on the beautiful African skirts. I didn’t buy a skirt, but I got a pair of mudcloth pants that I have wanted for a long time. Did I mention what a beautiful day Black Friday was this year? It was just perfect for shopping Next stop was the Costume Shop in the Strip District, I needed a mask for the Billy Strayhorn Masquerade Birthday Party. I found a parking spot right in the front of the store and was prepared to pay for my parking, but the parking was free for the holiday. We were free to move around the Strip without watching the time. I picked out a mask, with Carol’s help, and now it was time to eat. The Strip was pleasantly crowded; people in a good mood the day after thanksgiving and there were bargains galore. We found scarfs, ponchos, toys and live wreaths for $3. People please don’t forget about our great Strip District. The fresh fruit, vegetables, coffee, cheese and the atmosphere is second to none. We were finished shopping and heading to the car when I decided to show Adam’s one of my new favorite stores. It is called Fourteen and it is located on Butler Street. This is a very trendy store and the owner/buyer has a great fashion sense. There are a lot of stores and restaurants on Butler Street, a lot to explore. Put your walking shoes on and check it out. So here is the deal on the free parking. It is actually a Free All Day Saturday Holiday Parking program effective Nov. 17-Dec. 22. You can see which garages offer the deal by visiting www.downtownpittsburgh. com Vehicles must enter the garage after 12 a.m. on Saturday and exit by 11:59 p.m. to qualify for free parking. Vehicles entering or exiting outside these times are subject to posted rates for duration of stay. This special gives you the opportunity to see a performance, check out a new restaurant or shop in the Market Place, in Market Square. Do something different. (Email the columnist at debbienorrell@aol.com)
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR—Niecy Dennis White, WDGA founder and president, left, and Sue Hobart.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER—Tamara Tunie
WDGA Tenth Annual Benefit Festival by Debbie Norrell Courier Staff writer
On Nov. 3, at the beautiful LeMont Restaurant, the Workforce Development Global Alliance—USA 2STEPS2WORK Class of 2015—Homestead, Pa., graduated with the skyline of the City of Pittsburgh as their backdrop. It was also a night of celebration as a decade of WDGA was celebrated. The mission of the WDGA is to TWO HOMESTEAD NATIVES—Tamara Tunie and promote economic self-sufficiency through peace and em- Mayor Betty Esper ployability of opportunity youth. The 2STEPS2WORK program equips youth to resolve conflict (Get Along)— stead Mayor Betty Esper assisted with the Step 1 and provides the career development skills to be- recognition of the Homestead Class of come employable (Get Ahead)—Step 2. The evening was 2015. Esper had a hand in selecting the jam packed with special moments. Homestead native students to participate in the program. and “Law and Order: SVU” star Tamara Tunie was the Participants included Bruce Arnold, David keynote speaker, and spoke about her life in Homestead Arnold, Beonca Bell, Sincere Burnham, and her own personal journey to success and told the stu- Asia Cunningham, Caleb Groce, Teiara Hughes, Erick Meadows, Breeonia Pridents to do work in a field that they care about. Also honored during this benefit festival were Janet oleau, Zion Thomas, Tamarrow Thomas and Greg Smith. The Smiths were honored to receive the and Taniyah Price. HUMANITARIAN HONOREE—Mayor Bill Peduto, Lighthouse Award; their mission is to participate in programs that focus on restorleft, presents an award to Dr. Kevin Kearns. ing dignity and wellbeing to people at the bottom of life’s pyramid. The Dr. Wangari Maathai Humanitarian Award was presented to Dr. Kevin Kearns by Mayor Bill Peduto. The award was created to recognize legends who have demonstrated unprecedented levels of servant leadership, commitment and impact to mankind from local to global communities. Kearns is a professor of Public and Nonprofit Management in the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs (GSPIA) of the University of Pittsburgh. Kearns humbly accepted the award and said he enjoys working with students committed to public service to make this a better world. WDGA Founder and President Niecy Dennis White also recognized the WDGA WDGA PROUD—From left: Yvette Furlonge, WDGA board chair, PREPARING FOR A FESTIVE EVENING—Brenda Pugh and An- Volunteer of the year, Sue Niecy Dennis White, WDGA founder and president, and Chelsea nette Tillet (Photos by Debbie Norrell) Hubert. In addition, Home- Davis, WDGA program officer.
WDGA CLASS OF 2015 WITH TAMARA TUNIE—In no order: David Arnold, Teiara Hughes, Asia Cunningham, Bruce Arnold, Erick Meadows, Zion Thomas, Archie Dennis IV, Caleb Groce, Breeonia Prioleau, and Sincere Burnham.
B2
RELIGION
DECEMBER 9-15, 2015 NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Praise & Worship
Church Circuit
HILLCREST SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH
Church Christmas Party
2340 Wylie Ave., Pgh., PA 15219 412-391-4334 412-566-8787
“Be Encouraged”
DEC. 11—Narrow Way International Ministries COGIC, 615 Taft Ave., Mt. Oliver, will host its Annual Christmas Party at 6 p.m. The event will include local artists singing gospel Christmas classics and more. Also, toys and gifts will be passed out to families in the community. For more information, call Lytia Brock at 724-5587172.
Elder Christopher C. Thompson Power Hour Sabbath...............8:15 A.M. Sabbath School........................9:00 A.M. Divine Worship......................11:00 A.M. AYS One Hour Before Sunset Prayer Meeting Wednesday......7:30 P.M.
ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CATHOLIC CHURCH Crawford & Centre Ave. Pgh., PA 15219 412-281-3141
Holiday Concert
Mass Sunday 9:00 A.M. & Noon Sunday (Gospel Choir Mass) Noon www.stbtmchurch.org
METROPOLITAN BAPTIST CHURCH 22 Sampsonia Street, Northside Pittsburgh, PA 15212 412-231-2554 FAX 412-231-6395 Rev. Lacy F. Richardson, Ph.D., Pastor Church School.................................9:30 A.M. Worship Service.................8:00 & 10:45 A.M. Bible Study/ Prayer Wednesday...................6:30/7:30 P.M.
LAYING HANDS—Evangelist Earlene Smith lays hands on members of the crowd as she prays over them.
Greater Allegheny Choral Chapter hosts concert
Talent Christmas Party
www.metropolitanbaptistchurch.com metropolitanbaptist2224@gmail.com
DEC. 12—Rodman Street Missionary Baptist Church, 6111 Rodman St., East Liberty, will host its “The Street Has More Talent” Christmas Party from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Monroeville Convention Center, 209 Mall Plaza Blvd., Monroeville. Guests will enjoy some of Rodman’s most talented members. Reservations are required. For more information, call 412363-8082.
SIXTH MOUNT ZION BAPTIST CHURCH 6556 Shetland Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206 (412) 441-7839 Church School Worship Service Wednesday Night Bible Study
9:00 a.m. 10:15 a.m. 6:00 p.m.
East Liberty Presbyterian Church
Ladies Night Out
Rev. Dr. Randy Bush, Senior Pastor 412-441-3800 116 S. Highland Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206
www.cathedralofhope.com
Journey Worship........8:45 a.m. Sanctuary Worship.......11 a.m.
Join our growing Praise and Worship Church Community
DEC. 12—The Pittsburgh Concert Chorale will host the “Singin’ With Santa” Children’s Holiday Concert at 11 a.m. at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 1965 Ferguson Rd., Allison Park. There will be sing-alongs, a visit/photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus, goody bags and more. Reservations are required. For more information, call 412-6357654 or visit www.pccsing.org.
PARRISH DAVENPORT
EVANGELIST EARLENE SMITH praising the Lord.
DEC. 16—The Women’s Ministry of Macedonia Baptist Church of Pittsburgh, 2225 Bedford Ave., Hill District, will host its Ladies Night Out from 3:30-6 p.m. at Painting With A Twist, 2603 E. Carson St., #101, South Side. This is an opportunity for fun, fellowship and painting while letting out one’s inner Picasso. Reservations are required. For more information, call 412-281-8437.
Kids Christmas Reunion
DEC. 19—Nabhi Christian Ministries, Faith Lutheran Church, Iron Cross Ministries and others will host the 18th Annual Kids Christmas Reunion from 3-7 p.m. This year’s theme will focus on the topics of Physical Fitness, Drug Prevention and Literacy. Kids ages 3-10 will engage in family activities, food, live entertainment and more. Space is limited and registration is required. An adult must accompany kids. For more information, call 412661-1919 ext. 8.
The Chosen One
For rate information, call 412-4818302, ext. 128. We are looking to feature
KARL BOOKER talking about the choir and how they EVANGELIST BETHANY CRAWFORD giving God some praise. worship.
DEC. 19—The Music Ministry of Rodman Street Missionary Baptist Church, 6111 Rodman St., East Liberty, will host “The Chosen One” from 4-6 p.m. at Pittsburgh Obama Academy of International Studies, 515 N. Highland Ave., East Liberty. This worship and arts production will be a treat for all who attend. Proceeds from the event will benefit families in need. Reservations are required. For more information, call 412-363-8082.
A Shepherd’s Story
DEC. 22—The Brown Chapel Heir Force of Brown Chapel AME Church, 1400 Boyle St., North Side, will host “Fearless: A Shepherd’s Story” at the New Hazlett Theater, 6 Allegheny Square East, North Side This original music-filled, family-friendly play will include acting, dancing and more. The event benefits the educational work of The Heir Force, an educational support ministry of the church. Reservations are required. For more information, call Bynums Marketing & Communications Inc. at 412471-4332.
our positive youth in the church communities. You can e-mail, fax or mail their bios and photo to: New Pittsburgh Courier 315 E. Carson St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Fax: 412-481-1360 email: egaines@newpittsburghcourier.com
PRAISING GOD THROUGH SONG—The Greater Allegheny Choral Chapter presented Parrish Davenport & Family and Friends Fellowship Choir at its “An Evening of Extreme Worship” concert at Sixth Mt. Zion Baptist Church in East Liberty. The Disciples of Mime were the special guests. Pictured above, Parrish Davenport & Family and Friends Choir performing a selection. (Photos by J. L. Martello)
(To have items listed on the Church Circuit, send information at least two weeks in advance to: 315 E. Carson St., Pittsburgh, PA 15219; Fax: 412-481-1360 or e-mail: newsroom@newpittsburghcourier. com.)
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Elise Wims:
PEOPLE
The Diva Chef, health guru, body builder by Paige Mitchell For New Pittsburgh Courier
From diva of the kitchen to notable female body builder, Elise Wims, better known as the “Diva Chef,” continues to turn heads with her exquisite tasty dishes and incredibly fit body. “A day in the life of the Diva Chef would be training early in the morning, and eating 6-7 meals per day, around every three hours. I have no trainer, I train myself; while also training five days a week with two days off,” Wims said. One thing for sure about women is that they are fierce and fearless when it comes to the kitchen. Wims is no different; she conquers the kitchen by creating masterpieces, all while in make-up and heels. Wims began cooking at the age of 9 years old. To date, she has been presented with a proclamation from the city, along with several other awards and accolades. “The thing that immediately drew me to cooking was the freedom of art and creativity. Growing up in a foodie family, and after completing culinary school, I became most known for my Creole-Italian fusion. My favorite dishes to cook are Chilean shrimp scampi and/or grilled rib eye with andouille sausages, demi glace and pommel frites.
ELISE WIMS However, recently my fit foods have been high in demand,” she said. Wims said she never expected to be a professional body builder and fitness guru, and that she kind of fell into it. The quickest, easiest, and healthiest meal she would recommend is chicken, broc-
coli and rice. This recommendation is to those who are looking to make healthier meal choices at home. “It doesn’t get much easier than that,” Wims said. “Living a healthy lifestyle is important to me, and everything I do, I pursue with passion. Most Chefs are overweight, but not me,” she said.
The Diva Chef was second runner-op on season 9 of Fox-TV’s “Hell’s Kitchen,” among many other chef competitors. Now, she is currently partnering with Bravo Television. “I’m currently the operations manager for a start-up company that’s a TV show on Bravo called, ‘Après Ski.’ The show comes on Monday nights at 10 p.m.,“ she said. During her career as a professional body builder, Wims has taken first place for True Novice Figure, first place for Novice Figure, and overall Novice Figure. With three wins within her first show at the Natural Pennsylvania Competition, Wims said she was elated and feels she couldn’t have done any better. She is currently preparing for her next body building competition, happening next year. The well-polished chef and fitness enthusiast has managed to master the craft of combining food, fitness, fashion and fun. The single mother has accomplished roles as an executive chef, restaurant manager, catering president and start-up owner. Wims plans to continue to break down barriers. “The best way to a healthy lifestyle is taking it day by day,” Wims said.
The unveiling of Rosa Parks at MBC
BRONZE SCULPTURE OF ROSA PARKS
BILL STRICKLAND MBC President and CEO
CLIFF ROWE, chair of the National Center for the Arts
MARLA FRIEDMAN Sculptor
SCOTT LAMMIE Chair of the MBC board
On Nov. 20, Manchester Bidwell Corporation (MBC) unveiled the bronze sculpture portrait of Rosa Parks, “My Soul was Rested” by acclaimed Chicago artist Marla Friedman. Steve Sarowitz, founder and chairman of Paylocity, and his wife, Jessica, donated the bronze bust to MBC. Friedman shared her thoughts on creating the portrait sculpture of Rosa Parks by saying, “I tried to ‘listen’ and then impart in clay the spiritual quality of Rosa Parks and her brave pivotal moment in history. In Rosa Parks’ words, when she made the decision not to give up her seat, her ‘soul was rested.’ I hope the gesture of the sculpture reflects that sense of inner peace and the tranquility of a graceful, momentous life so well lived.”
She went on to say, “Bill Strickland has taken on the torch that Rosa Parks’ single act of bravery set into motion—insisting upon dignity
and offering light, beauty. and hope. I’m delighted that my art may assist in that effort; and it is my privilege to join Bill Strickland and
Manchester Bidwell in honoring Rosa Parks.” (Information courtesy of Manchester Bidwell Corporation release.)
YOUTH LOOKING AT ROSA PARKS SCULPTURE (Photos by J.L. Martello)
DECEMBER 9-15, 2015
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ENTERTAINER New Pittsburgh Courier
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DECEMBER 9-15, 2015
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Cover To Cover
‘Miracle on 133rd Street’ by Terri Schlichenmeyer For New Pittsburgh Courier
Mama says you’d better share your toys. But you don’t mind; it’s Christmas and as long as other kids are careful, they can play with your new gifts, too. Sharing is one of the best things about the holidays, as you know, and in the new book “Miracle on 133rd Street” by Sonia Manzano, illustrated by Marjorie Priceman, it could make your holiday brighter. It was Christmastime, and Jose’s family had the “tiniest Christmas tree ever.” There was hardly room for all the family’s ornaments. Their apartment was small, too, and Mami said the oven was too tiny for the Christmas roast, which made Papi sad. He wished they’d never left Puerto Rico. Everything was bigger there. But how do you cook a great big roast? Jose had
FAMILY—The Pittsburgh Playwrights Theatre Company presented the “ReMARKable!” fundraising event at the August Wilson Center for African American Culture, 980 Liberty Ave., Cultural District. This was a tribute and celebration fundraiser for Mark Clayton Southers, who was seriously injured in a vehicle accident in May 2015 and in turn has numerous medical bills. This event was to support him and his family as they continue the journey to recovery. The evening included select readings from “Mark’s Chronicles,” special guest performances, live music and more. More information at www.pghplaywrights.com. Above photo: Mark Clayton Southers with family. From left: wife Neicy, 4-year-old Andre, Mark, 2-year-old Ashley, and 8-year Marcus old listen to several people read the chronicles he wrote while in the hospital. (Photos by J.L. Martello)
‘ReMARKable!’ fundraiser for playwright Southers
an idea, Papi put the roast in a great big box, and they set out for Regular Ray’s Pizzeria. They were barely out the door, when their neighbor, Mrs. Whitman, complained about the noise. On the third floor, Mr. and Mrs. Santiago mentioned that their children weren’t coming to visit this Christmas. Mr. Franklin thought there were burglars in the building, and he refused to come out of his apartment. The Wozenskys on the second floor were worried about money, Ms. Simon was yelling about shopping, and the DiPalma kids were STILL RECOVERYING—Still recoverying from the auto accident, Mark Clayton Southers sits in his LELIE EZRA SMITH reading the chronicles making a huge racket. Even wheel chair, after being up on his feet for a long time, and speaks to the audience. the customers at Happy Full Tummy Food Store seemed very unhappy. Three hours later, though, the great big roast had been cooked in a great big pizza oven and the scent was “most glorious…so garlicky and olive oily and delicious…” It smelled so yummy that Jose felt like he was floating on its perfect, tasty goodness. “Feliz Navidad,” said Mr. Ray as Jose and Papi headed home—but not before they invited Mr. Ray to share their meal. They invited the Wozinskys on second floor, and they asked Mr. Franklin to leave his apartment. Mrs. Whitman came, too, and so did the Santiagos. Each person brought a little something to Jose’s apartment. And that was where a miracle occurred… HOTEP performs DELANA FLOWERS sings The first guest arrives at your holiday celebration. Then the second, fifth, eighth, and tenth, and your child might wonder if there’ll be enough for this crowd. The answer, of course, is yes and “Miracle on 133rd Street” will show him how. There’s always room for one more, as author and Emmy Award-winning actress Sonia Manzano proves in this sweet little story that starts out sad and ends in such joy that you won’t be able to stop smiling. Add in magical, sparkling pictures by Marjorie Priceman and you’ve got an instant holiday classic. (“Miracle on 133rd Street” by Sonia Manzano, illustrated by Marjorie Priceman, c.2015, Simon & Schuster, $17.99/$22.99 Canada, 48 pages.)
VANESSA GERMAN does spoken words.
WALI JAMAL reading chronicles.
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
November Thursday 10 Sunset Baby The City Theatre Company presents “Sunset Baby” by Dominique Morisseau at 8 p.m. at the City Theatre, 1300 Bingham St., South Side. This dynamic place about fathers and daughters, which runs through Dec. 13, sears with wit and wisdom, and the brutal politics of freedom. The production follows Nina, a smart and sexy hustler who has rejected everything her parents fought for in the Black liberation movement, and her reconciliation with her estranged father, who tries to run a hustle of his own, and how negotiating her past and present becomes a revolutionary act. For more information, call 412431-2489 or visit www.citytheatrecompany.org.
Friday 11 Black Voices in the Arts The University of Pittsburgh Art Gallery presents “Exposure: Black Voices in the Arts” from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Frick Fine Arts Building, 650 Schenley Dr., Oakland. This student curated exhibition shines light on the issue of Black artists being underrepresented in national museums while celebrating the artwork of local Black artists. In this exhibit, the artists use a broad range of media and evoke diverse experiences and unique creative perspectives. Some of the artists included are James Edward White, Frank Floyd Hightower, Tina Williams Brewer, Thaddeus Mosley, JoAnn Bates, and others. This is the last showing of the exhibit. For more information, call 412648-2400.
Saturday 12 Billy Harper Sextet Kente Arts Alliance presents the Billy Harper Sextet at 8 p.m. at the New Hazlett Theater, 6 Allegheny East, North Side. Billy Harper is an internationally known and critically acclaimed jazz saxophonist who is always charting new musical territory. He has a unique music creativity that was shown at an early age. Reservations are required. For more information, call 412-3220292 or visit www.kentearts.org.
Sunday 13 Nutcracker The Carnegie Performing Arts Center presents the “Nutcracker” at 2 p.m. at the Andrew Carnegie Music Hall, 300 Beechwood Ave., Carnegie. This is the last performance of the production. For more information, call 412279-8887 or visit www.carnegieperformingartscent er.com.
Monday 14 Savoy Jazz Savoy Restaurant presents Savoy Jazz Mondays from 5-9 p.m. at 2623 Penn Ave., Strip District. Every Monday guests can enjoy live jazz in a sophisticated atmosphere by some of the city’s most talented jazz performers. Tim Stevens and The Roger Humphries Trio will be the evening’s entertainment. The attire is business casual. For more information, call 412-2810660 or visit www.savoypgh.com.
Tuesday 15 JazzLive The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents JazzLive at 5 p.m. at the Backstage Bar at Theater Square, 655 Penn Ave., Cultural District. Every Tuesday, guests can enjoy a free live jazz series that showcases some of the region’s finest jazz musicians. The George Jones New View Trio will be the featured artist. For more information, call 412-4566666 or visit www.trustarts.org.
Wednesday 16 Humanae/I AM AUGUST The August Wilson Center presents “Humanae/I AM AUGUST” at the August Wilson Center, 980 Liberty Ave., Cultural District. The exhibition is a local adaptation of Brazilian photographer Angélica Dass’ “Humanae” project, which features more than 2,500 photos in public spaces around the world. The local project, “I AM AUGUST,” includes a collection of community stories, performances and events, and takes a first step toward a vision for an August Wilson Center that boldly celebrates community in the spirit of the center’s namesake, August Wilson. For more information, call 412-338-8742 or visit www.trustarts.org.
DECEMBER 9-15, 2015
ARTS & CULTURE
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‘Creed’ the new ‘Rocky’ Michael B. Jordan is effervescent by Merecedes J. Howze For New Pittsburgh Courier
Last week, the old-heads scolded me after admitting I have never seen any of the “Rocky” movies. The series, which began in 1976, was before my time— at least 12 years. And although “Creed” is considered to be apart of the “Rocky” film collection, it was good enough to stand on its own. “Creed” is the “Rocky” of my generation. Michael B. Jordan is Adonis Johnson as Sylvester Stallone was Rocky Balboa. The hard-hitting streets of Philadelphia has forced young Adonis to abandon his 9 to 5 and become a professional fighter. A true story of the underdog, Apollo Creed’s illegitimate son must make a quick transition from amateur to champion. Apollo Creed, the reigning Muhammad Ali style heavyweight champion was played by Carl Weathers in Rocky I. After his defeat by Rocky he became Rocky’s best friend in “Rocky II,” and “Rocky III.” He was killed in the ring in III. The “fight” to the top consists of the resurrection of one career and the creation of another. Jordan and Stallone are your modern day, Karate Kid and Mr. Miyagi. Their airy father-son,
MICHAEL B. JORDAN, SYLVESTER STALLONE
trainer-boxer relationship jumped off of the screen. It’s safe to assume that Jordan works well with Director Ryan Coogler. Their first encounter was in 2013’s “Fruitvale Station,” the breakout movie where Jordan played Oscar Grant, a Black man killed by Bay Area police. While I wasn’t over the moon for Jordan’s earlier stint in Marvel’s “Fantastic Four,” he is effervescent and easy on the eyes in “Creed.” The women of “Creed” were nothing short of amazing too. Phylicia Rashad played Apollo Creed’s wife and adoptive mother to Adonis. We all know she’s excellent at playing maternal roles. This movie was no different. Rashad, 67, is aging so beautifully. I just love everything she’s does. “Dear White People” star Tessa Thompson sizzles as Adonis’ soulful beau, Bianca. She’s strong and sultry, yet vulnerable and vicious—a fighter’s girl. Thompson is relatively new on the scene. From the long locked hair to the pale artsy freedom, she has this Lisa Bonet-Cosby Show aura. “Creed,” in theaters Thanksgiving week, is a redemptive, complicated story about fighting, family, and fortitude. 4 Stars
‘Sancho: An Act of Remembrance’ at AWC by Genea L. Webb For New Pittsburgh Courier
British-born actor Paterson Joseph is thrilled to be bringing his one-man show “Sancho: An Act of Remembrance” to Pittsburgh. “What could be more encouraging to hear about than a man of African descent, living in the center of the slavery period; a time when Black people had little or no voice in public life getting to a position where he can vote for an anti-slavery candidate?” said Joseph who wrote and stars in the fascinating tale. “He achieved this landmark by being clever, adaptable and determined.” The production, which is part of the Cohen & Grigsby Trust Presents Series, will make a one-night appearance at the August Wilson Center. “Sancho: An Act of Remembrance” tells the amazing story of Charles Ignatius Sancho who was born on a slave ship in 1729. After his mother died and his father committed suicide instead of becoming a slave, Sancho was taken to England and from 1731 to 1749 worked for three spinster sisters in Greenwich. The sisters, taken by Sancho’s personality treated him somewhat like a pet. John Montagu, the second Duke of Montagu was impressed by Sancho’s intellect, frankness and amiability. The Duke encouraged Sancho to read and let him borrow books from his own personal library. Sancho’s education made his lack of freedom in Greenwich unbearable and ran away in 1749 and for two years worked as the butler for the Duchess of Montagu where he immersed himself in writing, reading, poetry and music. In the 1760’s Sancho married Ann Osborne, a West Indian woman, and fathered seven children. Around the birth of his third child, Sancho became a valet to George Montagu where he remained until 1773. After becoming considered by many as a man of refinement, the portly Sancho’s portrait was painted by famed painter Thomas Gainsborough. “I think one of the main themes of the play is triumph over circumstances. The idea that your life can be mapped out from beginning to end because of your birth is largely false,” said Jospeh, 51, who resides in France with his wife and son. “Anyone with the energy, luck and optimism to
PATERSON JOSEPH achieve great things has a chance in this world.” Sancho had all of those attributes and worked hard to make a difference in his world. At the height of the debate over slavery, Sancho wrote to famous writer Laurence Sterne encouraging the author to use the power of the pen to lobby for the abolishment of the slave trade. Sterne’s response to Sancho’s letter became an integral part of the Sancho-Sterne letters and Sancho became known as a man of letters. In the mid 1770’s Sancho, with help from Montagu, opened a shop selling such goods as tobacco, sugar and tea in London’s Mayfair in Westminster. Although he was suffering from Gout, Sancho published “A Theory of Music” and two plays. As a financially independent house owner, he was the first Black Briton qualified to vote in the parliamentary elections of 1774 and 1780. Sancho wrote letters and newspaper articles under his own name and in under the pen name, Africanus. He supported the Monarchy and British forces in the American Revolutionary War. He oversaw a Foreign Slave Trade Bill in 1906 that prohibited British subjects from contributing to the trading of slaves with the colonies of British war-time enemies, thus eliminating two-thirds of the slave trade passing through British ports. He passed away in December of 1780 from Gout. He was the first African to be given an obituary in the British Press. “Sancho’s optimism in the face of terrible social and
political strictures has always made me think of him as a hero. As a Black Briton, he also has the added attraction of relating to my given culture just as I do. Both an outsider and, by dint of his skill and confidence, an insider. That mixture of in/out cultural knowledge coupled with his indefatigability is very similar to my approach to the lesser challenges of being a Black Briton in the 21st Century,” said Joseph who took about a year to research Sancho’s life and approximately another three years to write the play. He hopes that people who see the production, especially young people, will be inspired by Sancho’s perseverance. “Nobody has thrown any tomatoes at me yet! In fact, audiences have seemed to enjoy the fact that they’re getting an evening’s entertainment and a touch of education with it. The young people who’ve seen it so far have often told me that they would like to carry out their own research into Black Britain; a subject that seems to have been neglected even amongst those students of Black Diasporic history. Diasporic? Have I just made up a word, there? That’s very Sanchoesque, if I have! He was always doing that in his prolific letter writing,” said Joseph who will be taking Sancho’s unique story to Eason, Pa on Dec. 14; the Brooklyn Academy of Music Dec. 15-20 and the Chicago Shakespeare Festival in February of 2016 before doing a run in London later
next year. “I’d love young people especially, of whatever ethnicity, to walk away with the thought that their start in life does not have to restrict where they end up. That to dream of better is not a false hope but the very engine of a good, positive and fruitful life,” he added. Joseph began his acting career after working as a cook on his way to becoming a professional chef. As a means to do something more creative, he joined a
local youth theater and was immediately bitten by the performance bug. “I thought it was a place of magic, how I could pretend to be someone I wasn’t and have people believe me. I’m still fascinated by that audience/performer transaction even now,” Joseph said. “I think I am an introvert with extrovert tendencies. So whilst I love to sit alone and read or write for hours, days, at a time, I also need the company of others. Acting and writing allow me to exercise both sides of my personality; as I can learn lines or write on my own, but then have the satisfaction of knowing that the ‘other’ side of me will get his opportunity to ’show off’ at some point.” Joseph has appeared in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s “King Lear” and “Love’s Labour’s Lost.” His television roles include the British sitcom “Peep Show” a dark comedy about two friends who share a flat in south London. Joseph plays Alan Jackson, a senior loan officer and the main character, Make Corrigan’s boss. He has also had appearances in shows and movies across the pond. In 2000 he appeared in the movie “The Beach” as Keaty opposite Leonardo DiCaprio. He starred alongside Charlize Theron in Aeon Flux as Giroux. He can currently be seen in the HBO series, “The Leftovers” as Holy Wayne Gilchrest
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Meet the Beat Cop held in the North Side
HELPING IMPROVE POLICE, COMMUNITY RELATIONS—Peace Pittsburgh held its Meet the Beat Cop meeting at Living Word Ministry, located at 717 Ridge Ave., in the North Side. “We will be discussing police and community relations to prevent and solve violent crimes,” said Rev.Charles Ragin, Peace Pittsburgh organizer. The above photos show some of the police and community people, both young and old, who attended the event. (Photos by J.L. Martello)
Amachi Pittsburgh holds meeting on ‘Ban the Box’
TIGER WEAVER Panelist
JASARI X Moderator
STUDENT LEADERS—A public debate was recently held with Amachi Pittsburgh Ambassadors Iyonna Johnson, KeeShawn Johnson, Jahonna Lipscomb, Laniya Lipscomb, Ginnie Sweeney and Tiger Weaver on the topic, “Ban the Box.” The meeting included audience discussion and response on the featured topic as well as “anti-incarceration and education justice activism in Pittsburgh.” Featured participants were Amachi Pittsburgh Executive Director Anna E. Hollis, Julia Johnson of New Voices Pittsburgh, Jacqueline Roebuck Sakho of the Restorative Justice Group of Pittsburgh, Sandra Quiñones of Duquesne University, Jasiri X, and more. (Photos by J.L. Martello)
SANDRA QUINONES Asst. professor of Literacy in Education at Duquesne
JULIA JOHNSON Community organizer
JACQUELINE ROEBUCK SAKHO Panelist
ANNA HOLLIS Panelist
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DECEMBER 9-15, 2015
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Don’t let small dollar loans ruin your holidays In this wonderful time of the year when family and friends gather in good cheer to celebrate the holidays, nearly everyone has a number of lists. From greeting cards to shopping for gifts, decorations and more, lists are made and reviewed to keep pace with the barrage of seasonal activities. But if holiday lists seem bigger than budgets, turning to a high-cost, small dollar loan can turn joy and merriment into a fi-
Local MBAs pass leadership torch by Diane I. Daniels
Charlene Crowell
Commentary nancial quagmire. The good news is that with a timely reality check, most consumers can avoid holiday financial nightmares. A key step is to walk or drive past the brightly-colored signs advertising highcost, small dollar loans. Both payday and car title loans can provide quick cash; but the harms caused by these loans create will likely linger past the winter’s cold. Most importantly, these predatory loans often lead to consumers paying more in interest and fees than for the money borrowed. Research by the Center for Responsible Lending has found that predatory payday loans generate $3.5 billion in fees from repeat borrowers who are unable to fully repay the original loan, usually in two weeks’ time. With average annual interest rates at 391 percent, 9 out of every 10 payday loans go to borrowers who get trapped in five or more loans per year. Like payday loans, car title loans are often marketed as an easy way to get cash without a credit check - but with interest rates that tend to be 20-30 times higher than that of credit cards. The average car title loan of $500 can only be secured by signing a personally-owned car as collateral. Further, the loan will only be a fraction of the marketable value of the vehicle. While the lender holds on to a car title, the borrower is faced with triple-digit interest and in the worst cases, the loss of personal transportation. As harmful as payday and car title loans are, other seemingly harmful small dollar transactions can also cause financial SEE SMALL C2
JOB WELL DONE—Luncheon speaker Sean McCaskill, incoming president Lachelle Binion stand with scholarship winners Tashina Black , Camille Reed, Kathleen Decosse, Ashleigh Mitchell and Jobert Sauray along with out going president Dr. Jeanine Blackburn.
ern Pennsylvania the organization services approximately 3,200 chilFor New Pittsburgh Courier dren and their families annually. With the mission to unlock potential The mission of the National Black in communities to build the best fuMBA Association, Inc. Pittsburgh ture for kids and families by providChapter is to create economic and ining choices, motivation, and educatellectual wealth in the African tion, the Best of the Batch FoundaAmerican community. tion’s blueprint is to create commuIts vision is to become the premiere nities where all kids and families are Black professional organization in equipped with the tools they need to the Greater Pittsburgh Region. In build their own best futures. existence since 1984 and working toPittsburgh native Sean L. McCaskill ward its vision the organization has served as keynote speaker for the lunbuilt a membership of over 200 concheon. Focusing on the luncheon sisting of MBA’s, business students, theme, “Going Places” he emphasized entrepreneurs and other distinguished leaders in business, educa- ALL ABOUT GREATNESS—National Black MBA Association, that everyone is born with greatness Inc. Pittsburgh Chapter 2015 Scholarship and Recognition Lun- in them. “God gives you everything tion, and sectors in the community. Jeanine Blackburn, PhD, chapter cheon speaker Sean L. McCaskill. (Photos by Diane I. Daniels) that you need to be great. He puts you on the journey of greatness when you president until the end of December said throughout her tenure, “The groups’ goal Lachelle Binion, the group’s 2016 interim are born,” McCaskill said. He pointed out has been to continue growing its member- president. “We had a dynamic group of that taking risks, not having fear along with ship, collaborating with their partners, and scholarship recipients and awardees such having a positive attitude is important. He as the Best of the Batch Foundation that listed setting goals, envisioning self on the providing opportunities for the members.” During its 31 annual Scholarship and are doing phenomenal things in the com- journey of greatness, knowing your talents, Recognition Luncheon the membership munity. Having a way to highlight those in- having passion and desire, and having a highlighted the chapter’s philosophy by rec- dividuals and organizations is what makes strong work ethic as the way to find ones’s the event so special.” greatness and as a way to go places. ognizing its partners and Undergraduate scholarship recipients The National Black MBA Association, awarding scholarships to were Tashina Black and Kathleen Decosse Pittsburgh Chapter is one of 45 chapters of undergraduate and gradfrom the University of Pittsburgh and the 9000-member organization that has uate students, and poJobert Sauray from Carnegie Mellon Uni- partnerships with over 300 of the countries tential leaders. versity. Graduate students were Ashleigh top business organizations and inroads into “This year’s ScholarMitchell; Duquesne University, Lilian a wide range of industries as well as the ship Luncheon was Ngohi; Carnegie Mellon University and public and private sector. The group takes a huge sucCamille Reed from Point Park pride that it empowers minority business cess,” University. professionals through a wide range of said Duquesne University strategic business forces, including career was awarded as the Edu- and education programs, entrepreneurship, cation Partner of the Year lifestyle, and leadership. It offers encourand Highmark Inc. Corpo- agement of career independence for African rate Partner. American business professionals, the proThe Best of the Batch motion of African American intellectual Foundation operated by and economic wealth and empowerment, Charlie and Latasha and professional advancement of African Batch received the American business professionals. Community Binion said she is very excited to have the L e a d e r s h i p torch of presidency passed to her from SHARING A MOMENT—Community Leader Award recipient Charlie Batch of the Award. Serv- Blackburn who is stepping down to focus on Best of the Batch Foundation and National Black MBA Association, Inc. Pittsburgh ing ages two her business Kolor-N-Kiln Pottery that reto 18 in Chapter President Dr. Jeanine Blackburn. SEE MBA C2 Southwest-
Wolf praises Chamber in luncheon remarks by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
Standing before a crowd of nearly 500 in the Omni William Penn Hotel ballroom, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf opened his keynote address to those attending the African American Chamber of Commerce of Western Pennsylvania’s annual Business Luncheon by saying he had a budget update. “The update is—we are
going to get one,’” he joked. “I think we’re going to get there soon, and it will be good for education and balanced.” But despite the ongoing dispute that has prevented passing a budget for five months, Wolf said he wanted to talk about policy concerns, because his are aligned with those of the chamber. “What you do is important to our whole economy; breaking barriers, leveling
the playing field, and providing opportunities. We need an economy that supports those opportunities,” he said. “So, your concerns at the African American Chamber are very important to me.” Wolf said he not only plans to make sure more minority and small businesses contract with the state—as required by his September executive order, but he want to create an economy that will lure more minority and
HONORARY MEMBER—Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf smiles as African American Chamber of Commerce Board Chair Samuel Stephenson places a chamber pin on his lapel.
small businesses, and entrepreneurs to take their shot in Pennsylvania. But to do that, he said, they have to know the system is fair. “Without fairness, the economy can’t work. It can’t be strong if certain members are excluded,” he said. “The free market depends on people believing they have a fair shot. If not they’ll go someplace else. We have to be a magnet for entrepreneurs. The message has to be, ‘Come here. This is a good place to invest your skills.’” Part of creating that fair economy, he said, involves making sure children have access to first-class educational environments so they can build the economies of the future. As for the present, he said the state’s 9.9 percent business privilege tax is a “disgrace.” “We need to address fiscal and tax disparities,” he said. “We need stronger non-discrimination laws and a higher minimum wage, and we need to treat economic development in a fairer way so that poorer communities can benefit without being taxed out of their homes.” On that latter point, Wolf said he was not able to keep property tax relief—particularly school taxes—in the current budget deal framework.
Wolf also remind the audience that even without a budget he has appointed six African Americans to cabinet level positions and held
podium to present Wolf with a pin and the symbolic crystal key they present to all annual luncheon keynote speakers.
ON HOLD—Governor Tom Wolf briefly holds a crystal key given by Chamber President and CEO Doris Carson Williams following his keynote address at the annual business luncheon. another over from the Corbett administration. Wolf’s address also ended with a bit of levity when Chamber Board Chair Samuel Stephenson joined President and CEO Doris Carson Williams at the
“Normally we’d just give these to you,” said Williams. “But since you’ve enacted a gift ban for state officials, we’ll keep them for you until you’re out of office.” (Send comments to cmorrow@newpittsburghcourier.com.)
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BUSINESS CALENDAR
Be a smart holiday shopper In past years, Americans’ holiday spending has averaged around $700, for a total of $465 billion, according to the National Retail Federation. If you’re trying to trim your budget a little this year, or if you’d just like to get more value out of your spending, here are simple steps you can take, says the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Make a list Write down all of the people to whom you plan to give gifts, then set a realistic budget and see if you can afford to buy all the presents you have in mind. If you can’t, this advance planning will help you rethink how much you can spend on each person or how many people you can include on your list. That’s much better than buying first and finding out later that you’ve gone over budget and will have to do some skimping in the new year. Check it twice Only 21 percent of consumers say they always compare prices before making a purchase, according to an Ask Your Target Market survey. That’s too bad. A little research—whether it’s in different neighborhood stores or on the Internet—often reveals much better deals. Another option is price matching, when stores lower their price to match another retailer’s advertised deal. But if you’re not shopping around, you won’t be able to ask for better prices and ensure you’re getting the best deal. As you’re buying, don’t forget to review any contracts or end-user agreements associated with your purchase to be sure you’ll get everything you expect. Consider consolidating If you’re part of a large family, group of friends, or coworkers, it might be easier on everyone’s wallet to pick one name from a hat and give a gift to that person alone rather than trying to cover everyone. That way you can still gather to enjoy opening gifts together, but you won’t be scrambling to shop for—and afford—something for all. Remember, it’s the thought that counts It’s not always necessary to spend a lot—or anything at all—to brighten someone’s holidays. Consider thoughtful favors you can perform for a loved one. Offer to babysit for a new parent who could use some time off to run errands or to get out for an evening. Give an older friend or relative coupons that promise you will shovel their sidewalks when it snows or rake leaves in the fall. Create a photo album or scrapbook that captures important memories for a loved one. The people on your gift list will treasure thoughtful gestures like these even though they cost little to give. Start thinking about next year Want to take the stress out of your holiday shopping in 2016? Starting early is your best bet. First, commit to putting aside a small amount each week or each month so that you have a nest egg to spend when December rolls around. In the meantime, don’t hesitate to pick up presents when you see them during the year. You’ll be able to enjoy holiday gift-giving a lot more with presents waiting to be wrapped and a little spending money in the bank. Turn to Your CPA Making smart shopping choices at the holidays is just one of the many ways you can manage your money and make the most of your spending power. If you have questions about these tips or any other financial issues, be sure to contact your local CPA. He or she has the expertise to help you make the best financial decisions. To find a local CPA with PICPA’s CPA Locator tool or view other resources, visit www.picpa.org/moneyandlife.
VisitPITTSBURGH names Holden VP of Partnership Development PITTSBURGH—Visit- She is a strategic thinker PITTSBURGH, the official with the ability to anticitourism promotion agency pate the needs of the for Pittsburgh and Al- client.” legheny County, recently Ms. Holden grew up in hired Dawn Holden as vice Mercer County, where she president of partnership de- started her career as assisvelopment. Holden brings tant executive director at to the position extensive the Mercer County Convenmanagement and destina- tion and Visitors Bureau, in tion marketing and part- Sharon, Pa. In that role, she nership development experience. Her first day on the job was Nov. 9. Previously, Holden was a sales executive for Hargrove Inc., selling c u s t o m rental exhibits to CSuite executives at associations, destination marketing organizaDAWN HOLDEN tions, corporations and organizations. was responsible for promotFrom 2005 to 2013, she was ing Mercer County as a desemployed by Destination tination marketing organiDC as the partnership and zation, as well as all compoalliances manager, strategi- nents of marketing, memcally presenting the bene- bership and sales. fits of partnering with DesHolden is a graduate of tination DC to prospective Point Park University with and existing members. She a Bachelor of Arts Degree in implemented the Partner- Journalism and Communiship Program and also cations. She also has a Masserved as interim vice pres- ter’s of Business Adminisident for one year. Holden is tration (with a focus on a certified association sales Global Strategy) from the executive. University of Maryland “Dawn is a proven leader University College. with extensive destination VisitPITTSBURGH is the marketing experience,” said official tourism marketing Craig Davis, president and and promotion agency of CEO of VisitPITTS- the Pittsburgh region. The BURGH. “Dawn’s strengths organization is dedicated to are well aligned with the generating conventions, needs of our partnership trade show and leisure development department. travel.
Forecasting Growth and Revenue
Developer buys 2 floors of Pittsburgh’s ex-Macy’s for hotel PITTSBURGH (AP)—A developer is paying $8 million to buy two floors of the recently closed Macy’s store in Downtown Pittsburgh with plans to build a hotel in the space. Matthew Shollar, a Pittsburgh partner in the deal made by Reception Hotels and Resorts of Monsey, New York, says the sales price includes money to help Philadelphiabased Core Realty redevelop the entire building.
The 155-room, “fitness oriented” hotel is expected to open in 2017. The former Macy’s building was originally a Kaufmann’s department store. It opened in 1887 before Macy’s bought the building in 2005. Macy’s sold the building to Core in July before closing the store in September. Core plans to develop the rest of the building into new retail space and apartments.
Cheyney University back on probation CHEYNEY, Pa. (AP)—A historically Black university in eastern Pennsylvania has been placed on probation over financial concerns raised by the association that accredits colleges and university. The Philadelphia Inquirer reports (http://bit.ly/1QaG7R4) Cheyney University has two years to correct the issues raised by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education or face losing accreditation. That loss would mean none of the school’s students would be eligible for state or federal aid.
The university’s interim president, Frank Pogue, and the chancellor of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, Frank Brogan, say they’re committed to fixing the problems. The school has been running a deficit and experienced a 30 percent enrollment drop this year. Pogue says administrators had begun meeting to answer commission concerns by a Sept. 1 deadline. (Information from: The Philadelphia Inquirer, http://www.inquirer.com)
Don’t let small dollar loans ruin your holidays CONTINUED FROM C1
havoc. If you believe pre-paid cards will always avoid financial rip-offs, think again. Before paying cash for this convenient form of plastic, read all of the fine print that explains the terms and fees that come with its usage. Terms and options can and do vary significantly. Many include a range of fees from activation, to learning your current balances, reloading monies and in some cases fees for inactivity. By the time all applicable fees are assessed, the amount of money actually available on that prepaid card can shrink and shortchange how far it can help on purchases. Similarly, the convenience of debit cards can easily trigger overdraft charges for consumers with slim or no checking account cushions. By keeping track of receipts and balancing checkbooks, consumers using debit cards can usually limit or avoid overdraft fees. Failure to keep track of expenditures on the card can lead to multiple overdraft fees in a single billing
cycle. Worst of all, most consumers using their debit cards never realize the overdraft fees incurred until the next bank statement is received, weeks after the purchases were made. Depending upon your bank or credit union, overdraft fees vary in cost as well as an acceptable number to keep accounts open. Too many overdrafts can lead to involuntary account closures. CRL research shows that although overdraft fees vary by institution, the average $35 overdraft fee on a debit card is double the amount of the overdraft itself. To date, at least 14 banks have been sued for changing the order of debit-card purchases to maximize fees. This holiday season, try adding a full measure of practical sense to help your dollars preserve the spirit of the season and all of its celebrations. (Charlene Crowell is a communications manager with the Center for Responsible Lending. She can be reached at Charlene.crowell@responsiblelending.org)
Local MBAs pass leadership torch CONTINUED FROM C1
cently located in Ross Park Mall. “The National Black MBA Association is a phenomenal organization to be a part of and I’m beyond thankful to be given the opportunity to lead the organization as the Pittsburgh Chapter President and to follow in the footsteps of the extraordinary leaders that held the position before me.” Cautious that she is fulfilling a one-year term, she notes that her goal for the chapter is to focus on the core of who they are by creating a bridge that connects education, scholarship and professional development to the communities and members. Currently Binion is vice president of Operations and has served as Director of Programming and Director of Membership of the local chapter. Within her numerous positions she is credited for being instrumental in implementing new programming including the Coffee Talk and Cocktails and Connections series which led to the chapter winning the 2014 Channel Programming Award, fostering key chapter relationships within the professional and educational sectors, successfully planning and implementing the chapter’s Annual Scholarship and Recognition Gala and establishing collaborations with local affinity and community groups to help elevate the chapter to achieving its mission, vision and goals. Classified as a business and nonprofit strategist, blogger and all around changemaker, Binion possess over 10 years of experience working in the corporate and nonprofit sectors. She is employed as the Program and Fund Developer for a local nonprofit organization where she is in charge of crafting effective programming and rais-
ing operational and capital funds through development strategy, special events and marketing campaigns. She is also the founder and owner of The Kismet Life, a boutique consulting firm that provides individualized solutions to help nonprofits and entrepreneurs achieve organizational goals, enhance brand images and create innovative strategies that set apart their business for success. A graduate of Carlow University where she earned her MBA and Masters in Organizational Leadership, Binion also serves as President of the YWCA of Greater Pittsburgh Young Leaders Board and is listed in the 2015 Who’s Who of Black Pittsburgh. The 2016 National Black MBA Association, Inc. Pittsburgh Chapter Board of Directors are: Lisa Garland; vice president of Operations; Kyshira Moffett; vice president of Administration; Tamika Riley; VP of Finance: Shaina Walker, executive secretary; Leslie Brandon, director of Education; Ashley Baptiste, director of Membership; and Tanya Reid, director of Community Relations. Year-end activities for the chapter include the Membership and Partner Appreciation Event taking place December 16th at NOLA in Market Square and the group’s participation in the Dec. 18 Tree of Hope Holiday Distribution. Looking forward to what’s ahead for the Chapter, Binion encourages MBA’s, business students, entrepreneurs and other distinguished leaders in business, education, and sectors in the community to consider a membership in the organization. “If anyone would like information on how to get involved with the chapter she suggests emailing the chapter at nbmbaa@nbmbaapgh.org.”
DEC. 10—The University of Pittsburgh Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence, Community Bank and Wilke & Associates LLP will host “Forecasting Growth and Revenue for 2016” from 11:30 a.m.-12 p.m. at Range Resources, 3000 Town Center Blvd., Canonsburg. This is a lunch and learn seminar that will cover the mustknows of forecasting one’s business growth and revenue. Topics include, identifying the difference between budgets and finance; best practices for budgeting and forecasting; and key metrics for establishing the business health and potential for growth. Registration is required. For more information, call 412-648-1542 or email iee@innovation.pitt.edu.
Lunch and Learn Series DEC. 10— The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh will host its Lunch & Learn Series at 12:15 p.m. at the Downtown & Business Branch, 612 Smithfield St., Downtown. The topic will be “TechConnect: 3D Printing Basics,” facilitated by Wesley Roberts of the Carnegie Library in Oakland. The 3D printing is an exciting new technology trend that’s redefining the way people manufacture physical products. Attendees of this session will have an opportunity to see the Carnegie’s MarkerBot 3D printer and learn the basics of how it works. For more information, call 412-281-7141 or visit www.carnegielibrary.org.
Women Business Breakfast Series DEC. 11—Chatham University’s Center for Women’s Entrepreneurship will host its Women Business Leaders Breakfast Series from 8-9:30 a.m. at Chatham University, James Laughlin Music Hall, Woodland Road, Shadyside. Rania Harris, owner of Rania’s Catering, will speak on the topic, “I’m Here to Serve: the Business Case for Customer Service.” She will discuss the ins and outs of her experience starting a catering business, her unique way of doing business that has led to her long-time establishment in the Pittsburgh community, and how she developed and maintains her all-encompassing focus on serving her clients. Breakfast will be served starting at 7:30 a.m. Reservations are required. For more information, visit www.chatham.edu/cwe/events/w blbseries.
No B.S. Marketing DEC. 17—The Pittsburgh Technology Council will host “No Bullsh!t Marketing: How to Create and Leverage a No-B.S. Message” from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Pittsburgh Technology Council, Training Room, 200 Technology Dr., Pittsburgh. This is part of the DIY Business- Building Workshop Series 2015-2016. Dave Mastovich will facilitate this seminar that is designed to help individuals understand the difference between integrated marketing that works and the far too common things that doesn’t. Topics discussed will include the 6 steps of marketing that one can follow whether they have a marketing team or single staff member; understanding how investing in more targeted marketing will increase sales and improve one’s ROI; the difference between marketing and sales; and so much more. Registration is required. For more information, email events@pghtech.org.
Lunch and Learn Series DEC. 17— The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh will host its Lunch & Learn Series at 12:15 p.m. at the Downtown & Business Branch, 612 Smithfield St., Downtown. The topic will be “Small Business Research.” This seminar is for individuals interested in starting a business in Pennsylvania. Attendees will learn how the Carnegie Library can help one open their business through its access to comprehensive print materials, eresources and services for small business startups. For more information, call 412-281-7141 or visit www.carnegielibrary.org.
The Second Step DEC. 18—The University of Pittsburgh Small Business Development Center will host “The Second Step: Developing A Business Plan” from 7:30-10 a.m. at the University of Pittsburgh, Mervis Hall, Roberto Clemente Drive, Oakland. Attendees will learn all they need to about operational and production planning, conducting market research and creating financial spreadsheets to attract funding for one’s business. Registration is required. For more information, call 412-648-1544 or visit www.entrepreneur.pitt.edu.
New Pittsburgh Courier
SPORTS
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DECEMBER 9-15, 2015
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
ALIQUIPPA CELEBRATES RECORD 16TH CHAMPIONSHIP (Photo by William McBride)
Overtime by Bill Neal For New Pittsburgh Courier
:10—As you could clearly tell from my prediction last week when I called for the Steelers beating up on the Seahawks…unlike Kevin Cameron, I stand by my word, win or lose. That being said, your Pittsburgh Steelers rebounds from a game they should have won to beat Indy 27-21. And that you can take to the bank! :09—Speaking of the Steelers, and I was if you could just focus, it is my opinion and strong suggestion that you get Mel Blount, J.T. Thomas, Mike Wagner and Dwayne Woodruff off their collective “greatest of all time shelf” and line them up. Trust me, at their age and given that they haven’t played in forever, they will play better than our current crew! :08—There’s going to be a ten week T.V. series about O.J. Simpson starring Cuba Gooding Jr. as the Juice. Check back with me. I’ll tell you how it ends. :07—Congratulations to all the high school championship teams from our area. A great season…top level play. No major trouble or problems to speak of and the continuation of great young champions from Western, Pa. :06—Jahlil Okafor had better change his way of thinking and quick. If you think that because you’re 7’ tall that you can walk around Philly knocking people out, you are sadly mistaken. They will “cut you” in Philly and not give a damn about your win/lost record. :05—It bears repeating because I repeated it. “Creed” is the movie of the year. The Rocky Balboa storyline is there, but the way Sly Stallone reinvented the new look, new direction, new characters, new music…it’s good, really good. Four basketballs for the Italian Stallion. (I told ya before “5” basketballs are hard to get and goes to the likes of “The Godfather,” “The Outlaw Josey Wales,” “Casino,” and “The Magnificent Seven” just to name a few. :04—Michigan State Spartans beat the Iowa Hawkeyes 16-13 in an obvi-
BILL NEAL ous hard fought contest to win the Big Ten championship. The win throws the Spartans into the 3rd seed for the national championship. They will play second seed Alabama in the Cotton Bowl Classic in Texas on New Years’ Eve. :03—This just in…The New England Patriots are not invincible. They bleed the same blood we all bleed and they damn near bled to death at Foxborough, 35-28. :02—So you still have a hard time taking my word for it. Well you’ve got Goggle…Google Pete Maravich…a/k/a “The Pistol”
PETE MARAVICH
and you be the judge. Steph Curry has work to do to be as great as Maravich was. My man, he averaged 44 a game in college…without a 3 point shot. C’mon man! :01—You see me, you stop me, you ask me what’s next! Then the next time I see you, you’re like… “Oh, my bad!” So here we go again. Me trying to hook you up. Saturday, Dec. 26, the day after…it’s “Kickin it After Christmas” — The Spot in Penn Hills — 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Half off $5 at the door for the line dance crowd to kick it with Roland Ford the Line Dance King – 8 p.m. to midnight kick it with “D.J. Mightyman” free parking - cash bar cash kitchen - 50/50 - 35 and over - and the best wings in Pittsburgh. Saturday, Jan. 2 the first big event of the year, the W. Pa. Executive Humanitarian Awards honoring Robin Cole, Sonya Toler, Dr. William Simmons, Mayor Dwan Walker, Lee Davis, Brandy Allie, Troy Miles, Emmai Alaquiva, Chuck Sanders, Dr. Alfred Brown, the Hon. Ralph Watson, Nate Goodson, and several others - black tie - $50 benefits Pittsburgh area community charities - live auction - silent auction cash bar - elaborate hors d’oeuvres spread - the magical ambiance of the historic Pittsburgh Athletic Association in Oakland…this is going to be special - for information call Mr. Papa Banks at 412-292-1753 Mr. Roland Ford at 412225-9190 - the Hon. Ralph Watson at 412-723-2414 or Mr. Bill Neal at 412-6284856. :00—Yes mmmaaannn…I know Kobe, a/k/a The Black Mamba is retiring after 20 great…we’ll make that 19…18…okay 17 great years, but we’ve got plenty of time for Kobe. (But remember I said it here…Kobe will return. You know he like to be like Mike!!!) ~ GAME OVER ~
ANTONIO BROWN celebrates after scoring his third touchdown against the Indianapolis Colts. He had 8 catches for 118 yards to keep him among the leaders in receptions and yards. (AP Photo)
Inside Conditions…The smell of Victory by Aubrey Bruce For New Pittsburgh Courier
Last Sunday night at Heinz Field the Pittsburgh Steelers “broke in” or “smoked” the Indianapolis Colts 45-10. Whether the Colts can be now ridden with a saddle or enjoyed from grandpa’s favorite corncob pipe is a matter of preference. One thing is for certain and two things are for sure, this season reminds me of the year 2005 when the Steelers season began with the team trying to improve on their 15–1 record from 2004 in which they lost to the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game at Heinz Field during the “Bellicheat” or “Spygate” era as it is more commonly known. In 2005, the Steelers clinched the sixth and final seed to the playoffs, becoming just the second team ever (and the first in 20 years) to win three road games on their way to Super Bowl XL. If the Steelers clinch the final spot in the 2015 postseason they may very well as Chris Berman might exclaim; “go all the way.” However, the dynamics and composition of those teams couldn’t be more different. Ben Roethlisberger led all playoff QB’s during the 2005 playoffs with 803 passing yards, edging out then Seattle Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck, now playing for the
AUBREY BRUCE Colts; also the man that Roethlisberger “smoked” on Sunday. Hasselbeck finished the 2005 postseason with 707 yards. Seahawks running back Shaun Alexander beat out Steelers running back “Fast” Willie Parker 236-225 with eventual Hallof-Famer Jerome “The Bus” Bettis coming in 4th among post season running backs gaining180 yards after completing his final regular season as a player. In 2005 the Steelers relied far more on the run game than they have over the past few years. My point is that in 2005, the Steelers would have probably been higher than the sixth seed if Ben Roethlisberger would’ve had a bit more experience and the offense would have possessed a few more “Olympic track star-like” athletes disguised as NFL wide receivers like they currently have on their
roster. However the team was definitely more experienced defensively. The 2005 Steelers defense was ranked No. 4 during the regular season taking a lot of heat off of a still developing quarterback and evolving offensive philosophy. Although he is grudgingly given credit Ben Roethlisberger seems to have grown into the QB that the Pittsburgh Steelers visualized him to be when he was drafted in April of 2004. If the Steelers gain entry into the 2015 as the sixth seed and run the table they will become (at least to my knowledge) the only team to have done so. If the Steelers continue to perform on offense like they are currently, their defense only has to be slightly better than mediocre for the team to win a championship. The second time around for the Black and Gold being the sixth seed might just be the charm for the men of steel. However, any seeding in the 2015 postseason pool may just have the Pittsburgh Steelers hoisting their seventh Vince Lombardi trophy over their heads at the conclusion of Super Bowl 50. The sources for this article were espn.com and nfl.com) (Aubrey Bruce can be reached at: abruce@newpttsburghcourier.com or 412-583-6741. Follow him on Twitter@ultrascribe.)
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DECEMBER 9-15, 2015
PEOPLE
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
MBC presents Jesse W. Fife Jr. community awards
CANDI CASTLEBERRY SINGLETON, representing the Dignity & Respect Campaign, speaks about the campaign during her speech.
KEVIN JENKINS MBC Vice President
HONOREES—On Nov. 17, the Manchester Bidwell Corporation (MBC) presented the 2015-2016 Jesse W. Fife Jr. Fabric of Our Community Awards Reception at Bidwell Training Center, located at 1815 Metropolitan St., in Manchester. Those honored were Braskem America, the Dignity & Respect Campaign and Michael J. Romano. The above photo includes alumni, staff and honorees. (Photos by Gail Manker)
VALERIE NJIE MBC Executive Director
HONORING JIMMY FIFE—From left: Peggy Hightower, Alma Holland, Kimberly Fife and Tammi Dixon.
90th birthday celebration of Helena G. Hughes
A JOYOUS OCCASION—Family and friends celebrated Helena G. Hughes’ 90th birthday at the Hotel Indigo, in East Liberty, on Nov. 14.
PROUD COUPLE—Helena G. Hughes and husband, John Hughes, as they walked into the hotel. (Photos by J.L. Martello)
Andrea M. Williams leaving Children’s Sickle Cell Foundation
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS—Newly appointed executive director of the Children’s Sickle Cell Foundation, Michael Matthews, with Founder and former Director Andrea M. Williams.
STAFF—CSCF team members recently celebrated Andrea Williams’ moving on to bigger opportunities. Staff pictured next to the sign with the headquarter’s address are: Brooke Hornak, Tasha Alexander-Hooks, Williams, Eartha Sewell and Michael Matthews. (Photos by J. L. Martello)
New Pittsburgh Courier
CLASSIFIED DECEMBER 9-15, 2015
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SONNY BOY
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Help Wanted
Help Wanted
CARPENTER
Seeking experienced full-time carpenter with 5+ years of residential construction experience with basic electrical and plumbing knowledge. Must be reliable, able to work well with others, take directions and be able to work with blueprints. Must have own tools for everyday use on project locations, a valid drivers license and own transportation. Background check and drug screening will be mandatory. Competitive wage, health insurance, 401K, holiday and vacation pay is offered. Please email/fax the following to kmyers@ahrco.com or 412-6879875 when applying: - Current resume of work history - Current address and daytime contact number - References
FT CLINICAL SUPERVISOR
Sojourner House, a nonprofit recovery & family support organization, is seeking a FT CLINICAL SUPERVISOR: Masterʼs or above in a related field with at least 2 yrs supervisory exp and 2 yrs health/human services clinical exp including 1 yr of working directly with the chemically dependent. Bachelorʼs considered with 3+ yrs of clinical supervisory exp. CAC and/or LSW preferred. Valid drivers license & ability to obtain Act 33/34 clearances required. Resume w/ cover by 01/04/16 to Sojourner House HR: lnyberg@sjhpa.org OR by mail to 5907 Penn Ave #220, Pgh. PA 15206. EOE
LEAD ENGINEER (Multiple Openings)
Transition Technologies USA, Inc. (Pittsburgh, PA) seeking Lead Engineer to be respʼble for implemntng full scop closd loop combstn optimiztn softwr for clients in the powr genertn indstry utilizng SmrtProcss SILO, IVY & EDS softwr suit. Must hold a Masterʼs degr in Mechancl, Electrcl or Procss Contrl Enginrng or directl relatd discipln or a Bachelorʼs degr in one of the sam disciplns, togethr with 5 yrs of past progressivl responsbl expernc in the positn offerd or directl relatd. Must know (through acadmc trainng or work expernc) with the implementtn of closd loop combustn optimizatn softwr, incl optimizatn controllr design, data analss, & emissns & performnc modelng usng linr functns & neurl netwrks; analss, design & implementtn of third party DCS systms logcs & operatr graphcs, incl Emersn Ovatn, & WDPF, DeltaV, as well as installng & maintainng Linux RedHat, Unix Solars & Windws OS, MySQL, MariaDB dbs, Python, & C++ programmng. Must be willng to travl domesticlly 50% of the time. All applications & resumes must be submitted via e-mail to jobs@tt-us.com.
SOFTWARE ENGINEER
Duolingo, Inc. seeks Software Engineer in Pittsburgh, PA. Duties: Develop software technologies to improve our online language learning applications. Duties will include: (i) generating ideas for product changes that improve key metrics; (ii) developing prototypes for these ideas, as part of a team; and (iii) writing code to turn the prototypes into high-volume production applications. Requirements: Ph.D. degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Science, or related field and five years of experience in same field(s). Experience must include: (i) data structures, algorithms, and software design; (ii) programming experience in one or more of the following: Python, Java, C++, Objective-C, JavaScript/AJAX, database design and SQL; (iii) research experience in architecture, artificial intelligence, databases, data mining, distributed systems, natural language processing, machine learning, or computer systems; (iv) large scale systems design experience with Unix/Linux. Email resume to jobs@duolingo.com. JOB OPPORTUNITIES Health Care
HOSPITALIST
University of Pittsburgh Physicians seeks multiple Hospitalists to work at long-term assignments at hospitals throughout Pennsylvania. Requirements: Medical degree; completion of a 3 yr. Internal Medicine residency; valid PA medical license. Apply online by visiting http://careers.upmc.com. Enter 2088144 or 2088144PS in the “Search Keyword/Job ID” field. EOE Minority/Female/Vet/Disabled
INTERNAL MEDICINE PHYSICIAN
UPMC Community Medicine, Inc. seeks an Internal Medicine Physician to work in Allegheny and Butler Counties in PA. Treat both inpatients and outpatients by providing total body wellness, disease prevention, and management of chronic conditions and illnesses. Must have a Medical degree or equivalent; completion of Internal Medicine residency (3 years); Board Certification in Internal Medicine; PA medical licensure or eligibility; DEA license or eligibility for licensure; Apply online by visiting http://careers.upmc.com. Enter 2086206 or 2086206PS in the “Search Keyword/Job ID” field. EOE Minority/Female/Vet/Disabled
ANNOUNCEMENTS Meetings
ALLEGHENY COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES DRUG & ALCOHOL PLANNING COUNCIL 2016 MEETING SCHEDULE
The Drug & Alcohol Planning Council Meetings for calendar year 2016 will be held on the second Wednesday of every other month, from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., at the Human Services Building, One Smithfield Street, Homestead Grays Conference Room, Lower Level, unless otherwise noted. The Drug & Alcohol Planning Council 2016 meeting schedule is: January 13 March 9 May 10 (Second Tuesday, joint meeting with MH/ID Advisory Board) July 13 September 14 (Joint meeting with MH/ID Advisory Board) November 9 Marc Cherna, Director Allegheny County Department of Human Services
ALLEGHENY COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES MENTAL HEALTH/ INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY ADVISORY BOARD 2016 MEETING SCHEDULE
The Mental Health/Intellectual Disability (MH/ID) Advisory Board Meetings for calendar year 2016 will be held on the second Tuesday of every other month, from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., at the Human Services Building, One Smithfield Street, Homestead Grays Conference Room, Lower Level, unless otherwise noted. The MH/ID Advisory Board Meetings for 2016 are scheduled as follows: January 12 March 8 May 10 (Joint meeting with Drug and Alcohol Planning Council) July 12 September 14 (Second Wednesday, joint meeting with Drug and Alcohol Planning Council) November 8 Marc Cherna, Director Allegheny County Department of Human Services COURIER CLASSIFIEDS…COURIER CLASSIFIEDS…
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
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ALLEGHENY COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES CHILDREN, YOUTH AND FAMILIES ADVISORY BOARD 2016 MEETING SCHEDULE
The Children, Youth and Families (CYF) Advisory Board Meetings for calendar year 2015 will be held the first Wednesday of every other month, from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m., at the Human Services Building, One Smithfield Street, Rachel Carson Room, Lower Level unless otherwise noted. The CYF Advisory Board 2016 meeting schedule is: January 13 (Second Wednesday in the Liberty Room) March 2 May 4 July 6 September 7 November 2 Marc Cherna, Director Allegheny County Department of Human Services ANNOUNCEMENTS Public Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE FOR APPOINTMENT OF NEW MAGISTRATE JUDGE
The Judicial Conference of the United States has authorized the appointment of a full-time United States magistrate judge for the Western District of Pennsylvania at Erie, Pennsylvania to fill the anticipated vacancy that will be created when the Senate confirms President Obamaʼs nomination of Magistrate Judge Susan Paradise Baxter to serve as a United States District Court Judge on this court. The essential function of courts is to dispense justice. An important component of this function is the creation and maintenance of diversity in the court system. A communityʼs belief that a court dispenses justice is heightened when the court reflects the communityʼs racial, ethnic, and gender diversity. The duties of the position are demanding and wide-ranging: (1) conduct of most preliminary proceedings in criminal cases; (2) trial and disposition of misdemeanor cases; (3) conduct of various pretrial matters and evidentiary proceedings on delegation from a district judge; and (4) trial and disposition of civil cases upon consent of the litigants. The basic authority of a United States magistrate judge is specified in 28 U.S.C. § 636. The current annual salary of the position is $185,012. The term of office is eight years. Application forms and more information on the magistrate judge position in this court may be obtained from the clerk of the district court, Robert V. Barth, Jr., 3110 U.S. Courthouse, 700 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. The form is also available on the courtʼs Internet website at www.pawd.uscourts.gov under “News & Announcements.” Applications must be submitted only by applicants personally and must be received by 4:00 p.m. on January 4, 2016 in any courthouse in the Western District of Pennsylvania by mail or in person and should be marked “MJ Applicant-Confidential.” All applications will be kept confidential, unless the applicant consents to disclosure, and all applications will be examined only by members of the merit selection panel and the judges of the district court. The panelʼs deliberations will remain confidential. LEGAL ADVERTISING Legal Notices
ANNUAL REPORTS
The Board of Directors of Tadiso Incorporated is announcing to the public that you can receive an Annual Report concerning assets, liabilities, objectives and goals for the fiscal year of 2014-2015. In order to receive a copy, call Patricia Dennis at (412) 322-8415, ext. 120.
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Estate Notices
Letters have been granted on the estate of each of the following decedents to the personal representative named who request all persons having claims against the estate of the decedent to make known the same in writing to him or his attorney, and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment to him without delay:
Estate of LESKOVEC, DOROTHY P., deceased of McCandless Township, No. 06632 of 2015, Bonita Louise Leskovec, Exec., 1918 Sample Rd., Allison Park, PA 15101 or to Michael J. Saldamarco, Esq., 908 Perry Hwy, Ste 100, Pittsburgh, PA 15229.
LEGAL ADVERTISING Bids/Proposals
NOTICE Advertisement for Bid
Sealed Bids will be received by the Housing Authority of Indiana County, 104 Philadelphia Street, Indiana, PA 15701 until 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 06, 2016 for Replacement of Kitchen and Bathroom Cabinets, Doors and Windows at Tall Pines Terrace in Clymer, PA. Contract documents will be available from UpStreet Architects, Inc. (724) 349-3601 and local Builders Exchanges after Tuesday, December 8, 2015. Sets may be purchased for $50.00 per hard copy set + $15.00 S&H or $10.00 per electronic set + $10.00 S&H (both are non-refundable), checks payable to UpStreet Architects, Inc. A Pre-Bid Conference will be held Wednesday, December 16, 2015 @ 9:00 a.m. at Tall Pines, 574 – 580 Adams Street, Clymer, PA 15728. Project is funded by a HUD Capital Grant Program and is subject to federal requirements including Davis Bacon Wage Rates.
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR WINDOWS FOR FIRE UNITS AT NORTHVIEW HEIGHTS IFB# 300-38-15
The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request proposals from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): WINDOWS FOR FIRE UNITS AT NORTHVIEW HEIGHTS IFB# 300-38-15 The documents will be available no later than December 6, 2015 and signed, sealed bids will be accepted until 2:00 p.m. on December 29, 2015 at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, at which time they will be opened and read aloud. Parties or individuals interested in responding may download a copy of the Solicitation from the Business Opportunities page of www.HACP.org. Questions or inquiries should be directed to: Kim Detrick Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-456-5116 Opt 1 A pre bid meeting will be held: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Dept. 100 Ross Street 2nd. Fl. Ste. 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15213 Thursday, December 17, 2015 2:00 P.M. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation. HACP's has revised their website. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and login, in order to view and download IFB/RFPs documentation. Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh
HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.
ENGINEERING SERVICES REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) ADVERTISEMENT 2015
The Public Parking Authority of Pittsburgh is soliciting Proposals from qualified professional engineering firms to conduct an in-depth lighting/energy analysis and provide recommendations for the design of energy-efficient lighting technology upgrades at Authority parking garages and as more fully described in the RFP document. RFP Packets will be available Monday, December 7, 2015 after 3:00 pm on the Authority website at www.pittsburghparking.com and also at the Authority main office located at 232 Boulevard of the Allies, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. Prospective bidders are required to submit three (3) copies of the proposal and one (1) electronic copy of the proposal, in a clearly marked and sealed envelope 3:00 P.M. E.S.T. on Tuesday, December 29, 2015.
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) FOR PROJECT BASED VOUCHER PROGRAM & GAP FINANCING FOR MIXED-FINANCE DEVELOPMENTS RFP #600-39-15 The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request proposals from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): Project Based Voucher Program RFP & Gap Financing for Mixed Finance Developments #600-39-15 The documents will be available no later than December 9, 2015 and signed, sealed proposals will be accepted until 2:00 P.M., December 28, 2015 at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street, 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Parties or individuals interested may obtain information from: Mr. Kim Detrick – Procurement Director/ Contracting Officer Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 2nd Floor, Suite 200 100 Ross Street Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-456-5116, Option 1 or by visiting the Business Opportunities section of www.hacp.org A pre bid meeting will be held: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 200 Ross Street, 9th Fl. Board Room Pittsburgh, PA 15219 December 19, 2015 2:00 P.M. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation. HACP's has revised their website. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and log-in, in order to view and download IFB/RFPs documentation. Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh
HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.
America’s Best Weekly 315 East Carson Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Classifieds 412-481-8302 Ext. 140 E-mail: ads@newpittsburghcourier.com Deadline/Closing/Cancellationscheduleforcopy,corrections,and cancellations:Fridaynoonpreceding Wednesdaypublication
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DECEMBER 9-15, 2015
CLASSIFIEDS
LEGAL ADVERTISING Bids/Proposals
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
The Allegheny County Department of Human Services (DHS) recently issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for an Evaluation of a Predictive Risk Modeling Tool for Improving the Decisions of Child Welfare Workers. Proposals are due by January 4, 2016. For more details and submission information, visit: www.alleghenycounty.us/HumanServices/Resources/Doing-Business/ Solicitations-(RFP/RFQ/RFI).aspx. Marc Cherna, Director Allegheny County Department of Human Services
OFFICIAL ADVERTISEMENT THE BOARD OF PUBLIC EDUCATION of the SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PITTSBURGH
Sealed proposals shall be deposited at the Administration Building, Room 251, 341 South Bellefield Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pa., 15213, on January 5 and 19 (refer to project manuals for specific date), until 2:00 p.m., local prevailing time for: Pgh. Allegheny 6-8 New Pool Cover Mechanical and Electrical Primes Pgh. Brashear Heating Valves Replacement Phase 2 Mechanical Prime Pgh. Carmalt Boiler Replacement Asbestos, General and Mechanical Primes Central Food Kitchen Rooftop HVAC Unit Replacement Mechanical and Electrical Primes Pgh. Langley Replace Electrical Distribution System General and Electrical Primes Pgh. Manchester Water Cooler Replacement General, Plumbing and Electrical Primes Pgh. Obama Asphalt Safety Improvements General Prime Pgh. Perry Science Labs Asbestos, General, Plumbing, Mechanical and Electrical Primes Pgh. Weil Generator Exhaust System Mechanical Prime Various Exterior Envelope Repairs General Prime Project Manual and Drawings will be available for purchase on December 7, 2015 at Modern Reproductions (412-4887700) 127 McKean Street, Pittsburgh, Pa., 15219 between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Only Pittsburgh Obama Asphalt Improvement and the Pittsburgh Perry Science Labs will be available on December 14, 2015. The cost of the Project Manual Documents is nonrefundable. Project details and dates are described in each project manual. We are an equal rights and opportunity schol district.
America’s Best Weekly 315 East Carson Street Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Classifieds 412-481-8302 Ext. 140
E-mail: ads@newpittsburghcourier.com Deadline/Closing/ Cancellation Schedule for copy, corrections, and cancellations: Friday noon preceding Wednesday publication
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