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Former OMI chief Walker collapses at event, dies by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
Calling her a warrior in social justice and a friend, Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto took to Twitter to note that Deborah Walker, who worked her way from University of Pittsburgh police officer to chair of the city’s Citizens Police Review Board to managing the city’s Office of Municipal
DEBORAH WALKER
Investigations, had died after collapsing at an event she was emceeing. “She walked a very delicate line between law enforcement official and social justice advocate,” he said of his friend. “And proved to everyone that they’re not mutually exclusive.” Walker collapsed with an apparent heart attack while presenting an award during Talk Magazine’s annual dinner, Feb. 24, and died later at UPMC. She was 62. Peduto had recently promoted Walker
to chief of human resources in the department of Personnel and Civil Service Commission with an eye toward using her expertise to help increase diversity within the city’s police department. She had recently completed a report and briefly discussed her recommendations for doing so with the mayor, just last week. Prior to taking the position as OMI director in 2014, Walker served as a police SEE WALKER A4
Compromise made in Penn Plaza fight Business leader named chair of the AWC board
by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
The city and the owners of the Penn Plaza Apartments have agreed to work toward a negotiated settlement of lawsuits and counter suits while also finding new homes for the building’s last remaining residents. At the direction of Common Pleas Judge John McVay, neither party will comment publically before they return to court March 3. This comes after a flurry of activity which included a rally by residents at the City-County Building on Grant Street, a new legal filing by the city against building owners Pennley Park South, and Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto writing a letter asking several developers and nonprofits to house the last of the complex’s residents, who have until March 31 to leave. At the rally, past and current residents told of hardships placed on them while trying to secure replacement affordable housing. Randall Taylor said affordable housing is a “human right,” and renewed his call for the city to seize the property via eminent domain. “We’ve got to begin putting in concrete policies. People can’t live in empty promises. So we have to challenge the city council SEE PENN A6
RALLYING GRANT STREET—Current and former Penn Plaza Apartments residents rally for affordable housing support at the City-County Building. The deadline for moving out of the complex is March 31. (Photo by J.L. Martello)
Hamlet hears from the community by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
Just because Pittsburgh Superintendent of Schools Anthony Hamlet has already held multiple meetings with parents, education advocates and stakeholders from across the city and incorporated the feedback into the district’s visioning, it doesn’t mean he’s
stopped listening. During a recent forum in Homewood, Hamlet said he will continue to gather community input for as long as he is superintendent. “I’ve said this before. I want this to be my first and last Superintendency,” he said. “I want to be here 10-15 years because you can’t create consistency if every two or three years there’s someone new in charge.”
The Feb. 17 forum, sponsored by the United Front for Education (UFE), was held at the Homewood branch of the Community College of Allegheny County. The UFE had asked to meet with Hamlet so it could present him an educational model it has been crafting, designed “to educate our SEE HAMLET A4
Courier highlighted at PBMF Point Park forum by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
LINEAGE—From left: Tene Croom, Damon Young, Jesse Washington and Rod Doss discuss the Pittsburgh Courier’s impact and the evolution of the Black Press at Point Park University. (Photo by J.L. Martello)
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Speaking of the history of Black Press, the Pittsburgh Courier and the New Pittsburgh Courier, internet maven and journalist Damon Young, founder of verysmartbrothas.com, said he would not be doing what he does if not for the Courier. “I was reading the Courier when I was 8 or 9. And it’s been inspirational to my work––maybe not directly, but in legacy. I’m standing on the shoulders of the reporters and editors who came before me,” he said during a Feb. 23 panel discussion at Point Park University. Courier Editor and Publisher Rod Doss, who also took part in the panel presentation sponsored by the Pittsburgh Black Media Federation, said that has always been part of the Courier’s mission––inspiration. “There was a woman who grew up in the rural SEE COURIER A4
Julianne Malveaux says
PITTSBURGH—The six-member board of the August Wilson Center has unanimously elected Pittsburgh developer and community leader Michael Polite as its new chair for this year. Polite, who joined the board in August 2015, is majority owner of Ralph A. Falbo Inc., a developer of unique and innovative urban residential properties. He succeeds Pittsburgh Foundation President and CEO Maxwell King, who MICHAEL POLITE will remain on the board, along with the heads of two other philanthropies—Grant Oliphant, president and CEO of The Heinz Endowment, and Scott Izzo, director of the Richard King Mellon Foundation. The three foundations were instrumental in funding the original construction of the Wilson Center, which opened in 2009. Five years later, after financial problems and unsuccessful management efforts forced it into SEE LEADER A6
Voices Unlocked
Stories of residents whose experiences have been shaped by the penal system by Brittany Hailer For New Pittsburgh Courier
(PublicSource)—Voices Unlocked is a project telling the stories of Pittsburgh-area residents whose life experiences have been shaped by the penal system. Meet Sarah Sarah Womack stands in the center of her daughter’s pink room and explains why she had to take the frame off the bed and leave the mattress on the floor. After the Office of Children, Youth and Families inspected her home, the agency claimed that a bed with a frame would make a room seem too much like SEE VOICES A6
Political involvement is necessary, not sufficient Forum B6
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MARCH 1-7, 2017
INTERNATIONAL
‘24: Legacy’ producers apologize for using Kenya attack video
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
This Week In Black History
For the Week of March 1-7 1739—The British government is forced to sign a peace treaty with the Jamaican Maroons. The Maroons were escaped slaves or, to put it another way, Africans who refused to be slaves. When NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — the Spanish lost Jamaica to the British in 1665, they freed many The executive producers of their slaves and called them Maroons or “wild.” The Maroons of the new Fox series “24: set up villages, were frequently joined by other escaped slaves and Legacy” are apologizing for eventually began to wage a highly successful guerrilla war against using footage from a terror the British. Under the terms of the peace treaty, the Maroons were attack at a Kenya mall designated a free people and given 1,500 acres of land. that killed 67 people. 1780—Pennsylvania becomes perhaps the first state to MAROONS A statement Thursday abolish slavery. There is some confusion about the effective dates from Evan Katz and Manof the laws passed during this period, which called for the gradual elimination of slavny Coto says “we regretfulery. The honor of being the first state to ban slavery may actually go to Vermont. ly included news footage of 1875—Congress enacts the first Civil Rights Bill. It granted Blacks the right an attack in Nairobi. It will to equal treatment in inns, on public transportation, in theaters and places of amusebe removed from all future ment. However, with the end of the progressive Reconstruction period, Jim Crow laws broadcasts and versions of were passed throughout the South which largely ignored the Civil Rights Bill. Afrithe show.” can-Americans did not regain most of the rights granted in 1875 The footage from the until the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. September, 2013, attack on 1927—Entertainer and political activist Harry Belafonte is Westgate mall was used born Harold George Belafonte on this day in Harlem, N.Y., to Jato depict a fictional terror maican immigrant parents. Belafonte developed an early flair for attack in Egypt in the entertainment and in the post-World War II period, he became television show’s fourth Corey Hawkins stars in “24: Legacy.” — Guy D’Alema/FOX via AP one of the most popular vocalists in America and made Calypso episode which aired on popular throughout the nation. In 1959, he became the first Afrithe Kenya attack was Feb. 20. victims and their families can-American to win an Emmy. However, from the 1960s forward obtained. The statement says the and are deeply sorry.” he mixed his entertainment career with active participation in The series debuted early producers “apologize for It was not immediately the Civil Rights Movement and other social causes. He has been last month. any pain caused to the clear how the footage of a frequent critic of Republican conservatism and conservative Blacks. In 2002, he was accused of labeling Colin Powell and Condoleezza Rice “house niggers” for their support of President HARRY BELAFONTE Bush’s right wing domestic and foreign policies. 1967—On this day in Black history, the U.S. House of Representatives expelled flamboyant and outspoken Black New York Rep. Adam Clayton Powell Jr. from Congress for allegedly misappropriating funds. However, in June 1969, the U.S. Supreme Court declared the expulsion unconstitutional and Powell returned to Congress, but without his seniority. He lost his seat to current Representative Charles Rangel in 1970 and Powell died on April 4, 1972. During his most powerful years in Congress, Powell headed the House Labor and Education Committee and used his powers to help pass a wide range of civil rights and progressive social legislation. March 2 1807—Congress passes legislation banning the slave trade. The law which was to go into effect on Jan. 1, 1808 prohibited the importation of slaves into the U.S. or any of its territories. Despite the law, however, the illegal importation of slaves continued for years. The best available records suggest that the very last slave ship arrived in the U.S. in 1859 off the coast of Mobile, Ala. The ship was called the Clothilde. 1896—Ethiopia defeats Italy at the battle of Adowa (also called Adwa). It was one of the few successful military victories of Africans over Europeans as the latter attempted to colonize and EMPEROR MENELIK II economically exploit the African continent. The nominal head of the Ethiopian forces was Emperor Menelik II, but the lead general was Ras Makonnen—father of the man who would become next Emperor Haile Selassie. The battle, which began on March 1, 1896, would leave 6,000 Italians and 10,000 Ethiopians dead. But the victory forced Europe to recognize Ethiopia as an independent and sovereign PROTEST—Students protest against alleged police abuses in front of the Henri Bergson college, in nation, as well as, give inspiration to Blacks worldwide who were fighting for freedom. Paris, Feb. 23. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus) March 3 1968—The infamous COINTELPRO memorandum is sent to FBI field offices around the country. COINTELPRO was a government counter intelligence program aimed at disrupting and destroying Black, peace and anti-war groups. The March 3 memorandum specifically called on FBI agents to infiltrate militant Black organizations and employ various tactics to prevent them from growing individually or uniting with one another. The agents were also told to do whatever was necessary to prevent the rise of a “Black Messiah” who could “electrify and unify” Black people. Approximately one month after the COINTELPRO memorandum was issued, Civil Rights Movement leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in Memphis, Tenn. When the COINTELPRO documents were discovered by a reporter in the 1970s, susby Angela Charlton ers and detained 11 peo- Students blocked 16 ple after a crowd of about of the region’s 103 high picion increased that the FBI and its long-time Director J. Edgar Hoover were in some Associated Press Writer 1,000 youth marched on schools with makeshift way involved with the killing of King. PARIS (AP)—Paris the Place de la Nation, barricades and disrupted 1991—Motorist Rodney King is brutally beaten by a group of Los Angeles police ofteenagers blockaded high according to a police 12 others, a Paris school ficers. Unknown to them, the beating was caught on video tape. Howschools with burning garspokesman. The plaza in district spokesman said. ever, a year later (April 29, 1992) when a jury in Simi Valley, Calif., bage cans and skirmished eastern Paris is assoExtra security measures with no Blacks on it found four White officers not guilty of all charges with riot officers at an unciated with the French were put in place at the related to the beating, riots erupted in Los Angeles leaving millions of authorized protest Thursrevolution. affected schools. dollars in damage, nearly 50 people dead and more than 300 injured. day, angered by the alleged Some protesters wore Both spokesmen were not Ultimately, two of the officers were convicted on federal civil rights rape of a young Black man masks and lit flares. One authorized to be publicly charges and King received a financial settlement from the city of Los with a police baton and group carried a banner named. Angeles. It was during this period that King uttered his signature other police abuse. reading “Vengeance for The alleged attack on statement: “Why can’t we all just get along?” Police fired tear gas on Theo,” the name of the Theo last month in the March 4 RODNEY KING small groups of protestalleged rape victim. Paris suburb of Aul1877—Inventor and scientist Garrett A. Morgan is born in Paris, nay-sous-Bois also has Ky. Among his major inventions were the gas mask and the automatic traffic signal. He prompted public rallies of made history on July 25, 1916 when he used his gas mask to rescue 32 men trapped support for the 22-year-old in a mine explosion beneath Lake Erie. The U.S. Army also used the gas mask to save and also violent protests lives during World War I. Morgan died in 1963. around the capital. 1922—Comedic great Bert Williams dies of pneumonia in New York City at the Theo, who was hospiage of 46. What Jackie Robinson did for Blacks by breaking the color barrier in major talized for two weeks, league baseball, Williams did on the American stage. He was a comic, singer, writhas become a symbol for er and producer who spent 10 of his 25 years in show business performing with the minorities standing up to famous Ziegfield Follies. W.C. Fields once referred to him as “the funniest man I ever police violence. His last saw.” Williams was born Egbert Austin Williams in the Bahamas. name has not been publicMarch 5 ly released. 1770—Crispus Attucks is shot and killed by British soldiers One officer has been becoming the first American to die in the struggle for American charged with rape in the Independence from England. Attucks was an escaped slave who becase, and three others with came a sailor and rope maker. It is unclear exactly how he became aggravated assault. All involved in the protest of that day. But a crowd had gathered and deny intentional wrongbegan to taunt British troops. Attucks, who was of Black and Indian doing. parentage, was inspired to give a speech in which he spoke of the importance of freedom. Suddenly a volley of shots was fired into the crowd. Four people died that day in an event which became known THE as the Boston Massacre. CRISPUS ATTUCKS NEW PITTSBURGH March 6 COURIER 1857—Perhaps the most thoroughly racist decision ever rendered by a U.S. Supreme PUBLISHING COMPANY Court is released on this day in 1857—the Dred Scott decision. Scott and his wife, Harriet, had sued in St. Louis Circuit Court claiming they were free because their Publication No.: USPS 381940 slave master had taken them from a slave state to the free territory of Missouri. However, in a majority opinion written by Chief Justice Roger B. Taney the court ruled: 1) 315 East Carson Street Blacks, be they slave or free, were not and could not be U.S. citizens and thus were not Pittsburgh, PA 15219 entitled to file suit in U.S. courts, 2) Denied Congress the power to restrict slavery by declaring the 1820 Missouri Compromise unconstitutional, 3) Declared that where the Phone: 412-481-8302 Constitution said, “All men are created equal,” the phrase did not include Blacks, and Fax: 412-481-1360 4) Told African-Americans that they “had no rights the White man was bound to respect.” However, reflecting the law of unintended consequences, the Dred Scott decision The was so harsh and so angered anti-slavery forces that it helped pave the way for the New Pittsburgh Courier Civil War which ended all slavery in America. 1957—The West African nation of Ghana becomes independent from White colonial is published weekly rule becoming the first British controlled colony to gain independence. The nation took its name from the ancient empire of Ghana. Its first president Dr. Kwame Nkrumah periodicals was elected on July 1, 1960. Nkrumah would go on to become a major force for African paid at Pittsburgh, Pa. independence and Black rights worldwide. The Lincoln University graduate became a PRICE $1.00 major advocate of international Black unity known as Pan-Africanism. March 7 (Payable in advance) 1539—This is probably the day Estevanico—the first Black conquistador—was killed. Estevanico, a Black Moor from Morocco, was sold as a servant when he was only 10 but 6 Months.....$25 became friends with his owner Andres de Dorantes and joined a 1527 expedition of 300 men from Spain looking for riches in what would later become the U.S. state of Flori1 Year....$45 da. All but four members of the expedition were wiped out by the Indians they tried to 2 Years...&85 conquer. Estevanico was among those who survived. He was held captive for five years but became a “medicine man” and learned the languages of various tribes. He eventually 9 Month School Rate $35 escaped and in February of 1539 led an expedition to Culiacan, Mexico looking for the POSTMASTER: Send fabled lost city of gold—El Dorado. It was doing this expedition that he was killed. 1965—On this day in Black history, the first leg of the Selma-to-Montgomery March address changes to: is completed as thousands joined Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. in protesting racial injustice in Alabama. An earlier attempt to complete the march had been disrupted by New Pittsburgh Courier a police attack. The Alabama National Guard was federalized and U.S. Army troops 315 East Carson Street were called in to protect the marchers. It was shortly after this march that a White female supporter of the civil rights struggle, Viola Liuzzo, was shot and killed by Ku Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Klan Klan–style terrorists opposed to civil rights for Blacks.
Paris teens block schools to protest alleged police rape
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Tulsa’s former Black Wall Street tries to remake itself
TULSA, Okla. (AP)—Not far from a gleaming $183 million arena and other signs of a midsize city striving to become something more, smooth pavement gives way to potholes, rusted fences and shuttered storefronts. They’re the remnants of what was once known as Tulsa’s Black Wall Street, before one of the worst race riots in U.S. history. Businesses that are still open in this north-side section that some locals are adamant about reviving—the off-brand gas-and-go stores, the thrift shops and salvage yards—are often separated from the next open place by gnarled weeds, rusted fence and vacant lots. Much of this—35 square blocks of it— made up Black Wall Street, a southwestern Harlem of sorts and home to a middle and upper class of 9,000 African-Americans. Here, shop owners, doctors and entrepreneurs—some of them freed slaves looking for a new start in the recently incorporated oil boom town—thrived. In 1921, over the course of roughly 16 hours, a race riot decimated the economic and cultural mecca. The tally of casualties seemed more in line with the aftermath of a military battle—300 dead, 800 wounded, more than 8,000 left homeless. Blacks rebuilt the area in the decades that followed, only to see their work wiped out during the so-called urban progress of the 1960s. Attempting to make good on failed hopes of an eventual renaissance, black leaders want to bring 100 businesses here by 2021, marking the race riot’s 100th anniversary. “How can we pay homage by building this community back up to what Black Wall Street was and embracing diversity?” said Reggie Ivey, who grew up in the area and is chief operating officer at the Tulsa Health Department. Those leading the NorthTulsa100 initiative acknowledge it’s an ambitious, perhaps audacious, endeavor. The project is sure to be met with difficulties, as cities around the country confront similar challenges with getting businesses to move back into African-American communities, particularly poorer ones. Leaders here are seeking manufacturers, grocery store owners and housing developers. U.S. Sen. James Lankford, among the project’s higher-profile supporters, says the initiative is “not looking just for Black businesses” but commercial development in general “to re-engage a community that is still scarred years later.” “North Tulsa has a stigma of being one of the worst places in town,” said Donna Jackson, the project’s executive director. “We don’t have a grocery store, we don’t have shopping.” Jackson’s pitch to prospective investors
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TULSA BURNS—In this undated photo provided by Tulsa Historical Society and Museum, Greenwood neighborhood also known as Black Wall Street in Tulsa, Okla., is burned down during a race riot in 1921. (Courtesy of Tulsa Historical Society & Museum via AP)
NEW INVESTMENT—In this Thursday, Dec. 15, 2016 photo, Tim Smallwood talks during an interview in his Tropical Smoothie Cafe shop in north Tulsa, Okla. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki) is to talk up the dozens of vacant parcels they could snap up for a fraction of what they’d pay downtown, just a couple miles away. “I don’t think people know this is just sitting here,” Jackson said, surveying a quarter-mile long parcel of land on a recent afternoon. “All it takes is one company—just one company.” In the early 1900s, with Tulsa and the rest of Oklahoma racially segregated, Black Wall Street was an island in a city,
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where residents operated their own post office, police force, school system and two newspapers. Some had modern amenities, like indoor plumbing, long before their White counterparts. The Stradford Hotel, Dreamland Theater and Mount Zion Baptist Church were some of the more prominent social centers in the community. In 1921, rumors of an encounter between a Black man and a White woman in a downtown elevator spread, sparking anger among White residents and Ku
Klux Klan members. Accounts of what happened on the elevator varied, but angry residents weren’t willing to wait to sort it out. A newspaper article titled “Nab Negro for Attacking Girl in Elevator” fanned the flames. A White mob descended on the area, looting businesses and leaving homes and churches smoldering. Leftover World War I planes that dropped bombs on the Germans just three years earlier were now employed to destroy the property of fellow Americans. “What wasn’t torched to the ground, they blew up. They blew up just about everything,” says Laurel Stradford, whose great-grandfather was one of the wealthiest men in town and owned the namesake hotel destroyed in the riot. Blacks rebuilt the area in the decades that followed, only to see their work wiped out yet again, this time under the guise of urban renewal and a new highway that cut through the heart of the district. In the 1970s and ‘80s, Black residents who could leave fled to the suburbs. One by one, the groceries, mom and pop diners and storefronts closed. Houses were boarded up, allowing blight and crime to creep in. Counting existing businesses that have recently opened or are under construction and commitments secured to relocate here, Jackson estimates she’s 20 percent of the way to the goal, which must be met in four years. Some businesses are warming to the idea. Pine Place Development envisions bringing shopping, dining, a cultural museum and upscale apartments to the area. Tim Smallwood, who opened Tropical Smoothie Cafe in 2013, also sees the potential for a rebirth. He said family members told him he was “crazy” to invest money there. “In a lot of people’s minds, you are a poor community,” Smallwood said. But his investment paid off: The cafe has seen double-digit gains. Ralph Knight, a retired airline mechanic whose mother was 6 when the rioting began, said a turnaround could remedy some of the blight that now pocks the community and give a younger generation reason to hope—and stay—in north Tulsa. “It’s going to do something to help the Black community; it’s going to be something to help the kids,” Knight said. “It will cut down on gang violence.” Jackson, the project director who grew up here, knows the long odds, but draws upon what was possible here nearly a century ago. “They paved a path. What they taught us was people from anywhere can do anything,” she said.
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Courier highlighted at PBMF, Point Park forum
CONTINUED FROM A1
SUPERINTENDENT ANTHONY HAMLET (Photos by J. L. Martello)
Hamlet hears from the community CONTINUED FROM A1
children so that they are competent and committed to solve the critical problems of their families, community and the world,” and to build a relationship with him to jointly shape the best possible education for children. “We’re still working on it,” said UFE member and Pitt emeritus Professor Shirley Biggs, who presented the plan to Hamlet. “It’s an organic, growing experience that we want to share with Pittsburgh Public Schools.” The curriculum plan, she summarized, called for enhanced arts and esthetic instruction, financial literacy, the history of who Black Americans are and where they came from, more training in effective and persuasive communication—including listening, and even what used to be called Home Economics. “A lot of young people don’t know how to cook a meal,” said Biggs. “Now, all of these areas support each other. They are not silos. It’s an interwoven holistic vision.” Other presenters, like Princess Hughes, told Hamlet about how she has successfully increased parent involvement among disadvantaged families of children at Weil Elementary in the Hill District, using things like music contests, playground building, and video production to create an enjoyable experience. “Fun can correlate with education,” she said. During the question and answer session, Hamlet said the district has already sketched out some similar ideas. “I’m interested and excited to see that we have ideas that are aligned,” he said. “I think we’re together but exactly what that content, of a culturally relevant pedagogy will look like because we want to make sure we get it right.” Hamlet also said he and the administrative staff are working to make sure they don’t have policies in place that set Black students up for failure. “Also, there’s this big push for Restorative Justice right now—and I love Restorative Justice—but that’s after the fact. That’s after the kid’s already in trouble,” he said. “So, we’re looking at ways of making sure we have some positive behavior up front.” Rose Moriarty, retired principal at Miller African-Centered Academy, said there is a sustainability problem with kids losing what they get in elementary school, at the middle school level, because principals move in and out and don’t always support programs that had been previously working.
SHIRLEY BIGGS
TYRA GOOD “We tailor programs to our children— principals aren’t about coming in and changing things because I don’t like this— it’s about you being a natural fit. If they bolster what’s there that’s great—that’s what I want to bring to the table.,” he said, adding. “Since I came to Pittsburgh I’ve talked about the lack of robust curriculum for our 6-8 students. We want continuums across the system.” (J.L Martello contributed to this story.)
south and often told the story of getting the Courier from her pastor,” he said. “She saw African Americans doing things she never saw them doing before—politically, socially and in the entertainment world. But most importantly, she saw a new reality of possibilities for herself. Years later she went to Chicago and started an advertising firm. Some of you may recognize the name Barbara Proctor.” An inspiration to the community and an advocate for positive change in the community, that continues to be the Courier mission, he said. “We sponsor events—Men and Women of Excellence, and Fab 40 because it allows us to showcase the talent, the people doing extraordinary things in the community,” said Doss. “Their story is important to tell because they are inspirational to so many young people who need to see themselves in a positive light.” Jesse Washington, senior writer for ESPN’s The Undefeated, said he was so inspired by the Courier that when he moved to Pittsburgh as a writer for the Associated Press, he was compelled to visit Doss at the Courier offices. “You don’t just roll into town and say, ‘I’m going to be the writer on the Black condition’—not with the Courier there,” he said. “I’m too am here because of what the Courier did. Wendell Smith covering Jackie Robinson, pushing for integration. And now with the Undefeated, owned by ESPN—which is owned by Disney, it’s gratifying to see a major media conglomerate invest millions in a Black sports and news platform.” Washington also noted that the last story he wrote for the AP gave National attention to the Courier’s “Under Attack by Us” campaign—which highlighted the Black-on-Black homicides in Pittsburgh. Doss thanked him for that, noting that now people are looking at the horrific numbers from Chicago and other cities. “We were the first to say Black lives matter,” said Doss. “Long before others looked at what police were doing to us, we looked at what we were doing ourselves. We took an advocacy stance on that and we continue to do it today.” Tene Croom, former AURN radio host who now chairs the Black Press Taskforce for the National
ROD DOSS
DAMON YOUNG
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ANDREW CONTE
hundreds of papers doing that. There are papers in small towns putting out stories about police head banging—allegedly—that wouldn’t be known without the Black press, radio stations, now online.” The online world of Black news, said Young, echoes the trials of the older print publications. “The role of Black media today is still to tell our stories, and to let people know our stories are American stories, and that our stories matter” he said. “You need these platforms like Undefeated, like Very Smart Brothas because our stories aren’t always delivered in a proper way through traditional media JESSE WASHINGTON sources. Because we’re smaller, we have to be Association of Black Jourmore nimble. We have to nalists, said she too read the Courier growing up in be better because we don’t Fayetteville, NC. She espe- have the resources.” In addition to the pancially felt it was important, el discussion, Ty Polk, a like the Chicago Defendjournalism major at Point er in telling stories that Park presented a television others couldn’t, wouldn’t, news piece he’d done on a or both. visit to the Courier offices “Sure, the New York on the South Side. The Times and Washington event was emceed by Point Post are now telling ‘our Park Media Innovation story’ but they don’t have Center Director Andrew the space to dedicated to Conti. it, and nobody can do ‘our (J.L. Martello contributed to story’ better than we do,” this story.) she said. The NNPA has
Walker collapses at event, dies CONTINUED FROM A1
officer and judicial officer at Pitt, where she also created a program to help academically struggling students. While there, she was first appointed to the Citizen’s Police Review Board, later serving as chair. Elizabeth Pittinger, CPRB executive director, called Walker a friend for more than 25 years. “Deborah had an astute sense of propriety and abhorred disrespectful and foolish behavior. No one was too important or too marginal for Deborah; she respected the humanity of all, no matter their circumstances and foibles,” she said. ”Those qualities bespeak her spirituality and the moral compass that underlies her work and relationships. She dealt with matters in a compassionate and respectful manner even if she was personally frustrated or disappointed, and was dedicated to fulfilling the expectations of a patient and wholesome champion of moral justice. We didn’t always agree but knowing she was out there tempering circumstance was reassuring. She will be missed.” In her most recent role as the city’s OMI director, Walker oversaw returning the office to the supervision of the city Law Department from the Department of Public Safety. The move was designed to remove any real or perceived influence by the Bureau of Police into investigations of officer conduct. At the time, she told the New Pittsburgh Courier whether reality or perception—
she would address it. “Those perceptions—some real some false—are a reflection of leadership. I’ve built a reputation for integrity during my career. And I want the community to know and understand that when they call to file a complaint—against any city employee—I will investigate it,” she said. “High profile or not, my role is to make sure everyone is treated fairly and with respect. I will oversee the investigative process and treat every case equally.” She also professionalized operations and “gave everybody a voice, not only those who filed complaints but those who had complaints filed against them,” Peduto said. In her memory, the city placed Black wreaths on the doors of the mayor’s office and others where Walker served, and made a special dedication to her in the lobby of the City-County Building. Walker is survived by brother Ronald Walker, nieces Tonya Jones and Deanna Smith, and nephews Charles Jones and Ronald Walker Jr. Visitation is March 2, 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Mt. Ararat Baptist Church, 427 Lincoln Avenue, 15206, where Funeral Service will be held the following day at 11 a.m. Services are being provided by Coston Funeral Homes. In lieu of flowers, send memorial contributions to the University of Pittsburgh Panther Club Athletic Scholarship Fund at PO Box 7436, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 or www.givetopitt.edu.
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room and a bedroom would make things “too confusing” for Sarah’s daughter, Lola. The mattress on the floor makes Lola’s room a playroom instead. Lola lives with her great aunt and uncle. That is her home. Not with Sarah. Not yet. Sarah Womack is an addict as well as a mother. I listened to her story for three hours. We cried together as she detailed her years of drug abuse: an ex-drug dealer and lover holding a screwdriver to her temple and threatening to drill; Sarah weighing in at 86 pounds when she is finally arrested and sentenced to two years in prison for parole violations. Her experiences in the
American penal system were harrowing. And plentiful. She says her inmate history started as soon as she was old enough to be arrested as an adult. In Virginia, where she lived as a teenager, she says a county jail corrections officer strapped her naked to a chair for six hours, wheeling her over a hole in the floor to urinate and hosing her down after. And now, Sarah is fighting again, trying to prove to the Office of Children Youth and Families that she deserves to keep her daughter. Sarah, 38, gave me a tour of her home, showing me Lola’s ‘playroom’ and the collection of owls she keeps in her bedroom: “They remind me of Lola because she has those big brown eyes. She looks like a little
Hocker wins city-wide Shakespere contest
WOMAN WITH DAUGHTER—“The hardest part is when she says, ‘Mommy, I don’t want you to leave,’” Sarah Womack said as a visit ends with her daughter, Lola. The 3-year-old has been staying with her aunt and uncle since Oct. 3, 2015. owl.” The two people who Lola calls Papa and Nana, who live 2 miles from Sarah, will change Lola’s name if the court decides they may permanently adopt her. Sarah would have to forfeit her rights as a mother. Sarah’s last court hearing was Jan. 20. She is still waiting for the judge’s ruling. I may lose my daughter right now. I may lose her and the way that I deal with it every day is that— all the fear of possibly losing her, all the pain of not having her with me all the time, is for a reason. There’s a purpose. I compare my situation to other women. Why is this woman with a needle in her arm sitting there with all
her children? While I am sitting here eight months clean and I have to have a supervised visit with my child? I draw those comparisons all the time. I choose not to believe that I will lose custody of my daughter. I choose to believe that all this hell I am going through has an ending that is good. Losing Lola If you google Sarah Womack, a News 11 article will pop up describing her 2013 arrest that catapulted her journey for Lola’s custody. Sarah, then 35, was arrested for public intoxication; she says she was under the influence of Xanax and methadone, the latter of which was prescribed to her to curb her
addiction to heroin. News 11 reports that “customers also noticed her behavior, telling police she nearly dropped her daughter and bumped the child’s head on a counter.” The court dismissed the child endangerment charge after it reviewed surveillance footage and discovered Sarah never took Lola out of her stroller. The child was not harmed. The police showed up and literally ripped my baby out of her stroller. They took her one way and took me to the back of the store. They wouldn’t tell me who had her, where she was going, what was going to happen. All I knew was that my 4-month-old baby was taken. I was outraged. I was freaking out. “I may lose my daughter right now. “They threw me into a single holding cell by myself. I’m crying. I’m scared. I keep pounding on the door asking for someone to tell me: Where is my child? Where is my child? Can somebody tell me where my baby is? Can somebody tell me what is going on? And the guard came up to my cell and I thought, ‘Oh, thank God. They’re finally going to tell me what’s going on.’ And she said: What’s your baby’s name again? And I said: Lola And she goes: Huh, that’s funny, I am about to adopt a Lola.
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PROUD MOMENT—Pittsburgh Public Theater Shakespeare competition winner Jaylen Hocker holding one of his prizes, a book of Shakespeare plays, with his mom, Kharma Lowe, right, and teacher Lori Gephart at the Showcase of Finalists event. (Photos supplied by Lori Gephart) Jaylen Hocker, a fifth grader at Jefferson Elementary, in the West Jefferson Hills School District, was the winner of the lower division for monologues in the 2017 Pittsburgh Public Theater Shakespeare Monologue and Scene Contest, held Feb. 20 at the O’Reilly Theater. Hocker won with his portrayal of Shakespeare’s character Shylock from the play “The Merchant of Venice.” The competition presented by the Pittsburgh Public Theater as a wonderful opportunity for young people to experience the excitement of live performance while learning the works of William Shakespeare, is a part of Shakespeare in American Communities, a program of the National Endowment for the Arts, in partnership with Arts Midwest. EQT was the major sponsor of the event. During the contest, students in grades 4-12––the upper division (grades 8-12)
and lower division (grades 4-7)––presented a monologue, scene or both from works of Shakespeare to a panel of judges during the preliminary round. Those finalists selected, including Hocker, went on to present their pieces at the Showcase of Finalists. Coaching sessions were made available to students at school and the O’Reilly. Lori Gephart, Hocker’s Gifted Support teacher, said gifted student participants from her 4th and 5th grade practiced extremely hard for the competition. She went on to say, “We are all very proud of (Hocker’s) hard work, natural talent and great success in the contest. Jaylen has never acted in his life, so this is really a major accomplishment. He is quite talented.” For his win, Hocker took home a book of Shakespeare’s plays, as well as a year’s subscription to the theater.
to make affordable housing a reality,” he said. “I was displaced. I went from a home I liked that was affordable to a place I don’t like and I’m paying more money for less than what I had.” “O’Harold Hoots, one of the 24 remaining residents in the complex, said landlords are making it difficult for them to find new homes. “One guy said he had to install a new counter, and that would add an extra $75 a month to the rent,” he said. “And then, because I don’t get my Social Security check until the 3rd of the month, I’d have to pay another $80 a month late fee.” Other remaining Penn Plaza residents said the owners’ developer—who is preparing the building for demolition ahead of its planned market-rate housing, retail and Whole Foods project--is putting their health at risk. Seventy-six-year-old Myrtle Stern said the heat was cut at one point and they had to get heaters and blankets, and that doorways and windows are now covered only with plastic, letting rodents in. “When I sit in my kitchen, the whole building shakes from the work they’re doing—and they start in at 4:30 in the morning,” she said. “And the dust, you
KEVIN ACKLIN can’t hardly breathe. Her 78-year-old neighbor Mabel Duffy was more concise: “They come in here wearing those hazmat suits—we don’t have those.” Downtown attorney Jonathan Kamin, who represents Pennley Park, said the state Department of Environmental Protection has made multiple surprise inspections and found no violations. He also said his clients have complied with the agreement they had with the city, including paying to relocate residents. “We have worked very hard and spent over a million dollars to remain in compliance with that (agreement),” he said. “We have taken those obligations seriously and will continue to do so, and we
are not aware of any violations at the property.” Peduto’s Chief of Staff Kevin Acklin disagrees, and met with the residents and told them of the city lawsuit against the owners, and assured them the city “had their back.” “We intend to use the full power of the city to defend the residents of Penn Plaza, to defend the plans for East Liberty, and to make sure community-driven development in the city isn’t thrown out due to legal tricks,” he said. “I don’t have a lot of passion for development with Whole Foods, the passion in this administration is for the people that live in this neighborhood, that’s why we’re still at the table. We’re here to back you up.” As for Peduto’s letter asking developers ranging from Mosites and KBK Enterprises to nonprofits like Action Housing and the Bloomfield Garfield Corporation for assistance in housing the remain, spokesman Tim McNulty said it is paying off. “About a half-dozen developers have responded,” he said. “Chief of Staff Kevin Acklin will be meeting with them (March 1) to talk next steps.” McNulty said he did not know which entities had responded, nor did he know the number of residents they agreed to help.
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into bankruptcy, the foundation leaders, along with Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald and Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto, rescued it from sheriff’s sale. In 2016, the first full year the Center operated under new leadership, 135 events were presented, drawing more than 34,000 people. Programming and other activities have increased to the point that the board is now conducting a search for an executive director, the first staff position since the organization was re-established under the management board. “Mike is an accomplished business leader who will provide great stewardship in that area for the Center,” said King. “We’re also fortunate to have the benefit of his experience from board service for many community-based organizations. It is critically important that the Center attract visitors from many sectors of Pittsburgh life.” Polite said he is humbled by the confidence shown in him by fellow board members, and also aware of the significant amount of work required to continue the Center’s progress. “The next two years will be critical as we bring on an executive director and map
out the Center’s future,” he said. “While I’m taking over the helm, the work of the Center will always be the joint effort of our board and the Center’s supporters from the wider community, including publicand private-sector representatives.” Other board members in addition to Polite and the foundation leaders are Richard Taylor, CEO of ImbuTec, who joined in 2015; and Tracey McCants Lewis, assistant clinical professor and pro bono program coordinator at Duquesne University School of Law, who joined last year. With a strong record of accomplishment in community development and public service, Polite has led initiatives in public and private housing as well as economic development. He also has experience in program management, minority and micro-business development and community outreach. Other boards on which he serves include: Energy Center Innovation Institute, the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh, the Allegheny County Finance and Development Commission, and the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. Previously, he served on the boards of Pittsburgh Gateways Corp., Catholic Charities and Angel’s Place.
And then slammed the door back closed. That’s the way I got treated. I can’t eat. I can’t sleep. I literally sat at the window. The window is about 5 inches wide, and it overlooked the river. And I’d watch the moon start from one end of the river and go to the other end of the river. All night long. I would sit there and picture my child’s face and watch the moon. Finally, Sarah gets in touch with her mother. She tells Sarah that Lola’s father’s family has Lola in their custody. After eight days in jail, Sarah goes to Sojourner House, a rehabilitation facility for addicted mothers. She gets off drugs and gets Lola back four months later in December 2013. I was clean 14 months. I had her back 10. I relapsed. But I didn’t lose her then. I relapsed on alcohol and I asked for help immediately. Two months later Sarah will relapse on alcohol again, and she will reach out to Lola’s great aunt and great uncle for help again. And while this is disappointing, Sarah maintains that this is growth.
Community Calendar Exhibit Closing Event
MARCH 3—Saihou Njai’s “From Haiti With Love” photography exhibit of the Dance to Save Lives dance company will close with celebration of music, art and networking, 5-8 p.m. at the Zazen Lounge and Gallery 522 Third Ave., Pittsburgh, 15219.
Youth Cooking Competition
MARCH 4—Project Lunch Tray an initiative of Community Kitchen Pittsburgh sponsored by the PNC Foundation, will test the cooking skills of 16 teams of young people beginning at 9 a.m. at Smallman Galley, 54 21st street in the Strip District. Students will be judged on taste and presentation. On March 25, the lunches will be professionally prepared by their mentor chefs, presented by the students and judged on nutrition, scalability, and cost-per-plate. For more information, contact Katie Schratz at 412-246-4736.
Interfaith Peace Service
MARCH 7—The Black Political Empowerment Project, The Greater Pittsburgh Colaition Against Violence and the Hill District Ministers Alliance will sponsor an Interfaith Service Fir Peace and Non-Violence, 5:30 p.m. at Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, 2001 Wylie Avenue in the Hill District. The event will feature music from the Mon Valley Community Choir and remarks by Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto, Councilman Danny Lavelle and police Chief Scott Schubert, as well as a special message from Wesley Center AMEZ Church Pastor Rev. Glenn Grayson. For more information call 412-212-8775.
Community Dinner
MARCH 9—The Homewood Children’s Village will hold its monthly Community Dinner, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at The Shop, 621 N. Dallas Ave. The event will highlight the HCV’s current work and upcoming initiatives, and honor program participants. Please RSVP by contacting Hally Ramirez at 412-727-7605 ext. 12 or hramirez@hcvpgh.org.
Free Homebuyer Workshop
APRIL 5—The Mon Valley Initiative and the Braddock Economic Development Corp. Will host “Buying Your Own Home: You Hold the Key” will be held at 6:30 p.m. April 5 at The Overlook, 416A Overlook Way in Braddock, on the old UPMC Braddock Hospital site between Braddock Avenue and Holland Avenue. Jonathan Weaver, a housing counselor with Mon Valley Initiative, will talk about the steps that first time homebuyers should consider. Light refreshments will be served. To register, call 412-464-4000, extension 4008, or email jweaver@ monvalleyinitiative.com.
Winter Fun
ONGOING—The Allegheny County Parks Department has opened the ski slopes and snow tubing areas in Boyce Park, as well as the ice skating rinks in North Park and South Park, weather and conditions permitting. For information on times, rates and rentals visit online at www.alleghenycounty.us/ parks/activities/winter-sports or call 412-350-2455.
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Cover To Cover
‘Never Caught’ by Terri Schlichenmeyer For New Pittsburgh Courier
Run, run, run. Some days, it feels like that’s all you do. Run the kids to school, dash to work, rush with errands, and run yourself ragged before bed. You’re always on the go, always moving, and in the new book “Never Caught” by Erica Armstrong Dunbar, your breath isn’t the only thing to catch. T w e n t y - o n e - y e a r- o l d Mulatto Betty must’ve breathed a sigh of relief. When Martha Custis married George Washington, slaves were shuffled as the mistress moved to Mount Vernon; miraculously and notably, Betty moved and was allowed to keep her baby son with her. She was pregnant, too, by a White man with an “indenture agreement” and an eye for opportunity; their eldest daughter was born in mid-
1773, and given the unusual name of Ona Maria. At age 10, “Oney” Judge was brought inside the Washington household, in service to Martha Washington. There, the illiterate girl learned to care for Martha’s clothing, to bathe the mistress, tend her grandchildren, and soothe anxieties—one of which was that Martha’s husband had been asked to be the nation’s first president, a post that Martha Washington wasn’t keen on—and neither was Judge. But, of course, Washington did take the position, which meant a household move from Virginia to Manhattan (the site of the first Executive Mansion) for the family and a handful of slaves, including Judge. It’s there, says Dunbar, where Judge most certainly tasted freedom through rare autonomy. She was undoubtedly unhappy, therefore—but couldn’t speak her mind— when the Executive Mansion was relocated to Philadelphia in 1790. But there was a twist, for Judge and for the Washingtons: laws in Pennsylvania mandated freedom for any slave living in the state for six continuous months, meaning that the Washingtons would shuttle their slaves between Philadelphia and Virginia, to “reset” their status. Judge surely knew what was going on, but when she learned that she would be permanently gifted as a wedding present to Martha’s moody granddaughter, she could stand things no longer. And so, as the Washingtons dined on a Saturday evening in May, 1796, Oney Judge slipped out the door and ran… It’s been a long time since I’ve read a thriller as heart-pounding as the one I found in this book. The difference is that “Never Caught” is all true. But Judge’s astounding, audacious story isn’t the only thing author Dunbar brings to vivid life: she also sets the tone by explaining the times in which Judge lived, and what life was like for slaves and Whites alike. (“Never Caught” by Erica Armstrong Dunbar, c.2017, Atria, $26/ $35 Canada, 254 pages.)
‘Music of Prince’ celebrates artist’s musical accomplishments by Genea L. Webb For New Pittsburgh Courier
For many, April 21, 2016, was the day that the music died. Specifically the music performed by one of the greatest entertainers to ever live. Prince, who died on that day of an accidental drug overdose, was found unresponsive in the elevator of his Paisley Park studio compound in Chanhassen, Minn,. He was 57 years old. “There’s some kind of spiritual connection to Prince that is unexplainable. Beyond the artistry, beyond the music, there was some kind of cosmic connection that a lot of people had to him that is unexplainable,” said singer and multi-instrumentalist Marshall Charloff. For those who were unable to make the trek to Paisley Park to pay our respects to His Purple Majesty, the Pittsburgh Symphony will honor Prince’s memory and spirit with “The Music of Prince” March 4. The Symphony will be backed by a live band, guest conductor Brent Havens and soloist Charloff, all of whom will perform some of the Artist’s biggest hits including “Purple Rain,” “Raspberry Beret,” “When Doves Cry” and many more. “I generally look for artists who have a catalogue large enough to support a two-hour show with an orchestra, the music will fit and the audience will have a good time,” explained Berklee-trained conductor and arranger Havens who has written music for orchestras, feature films and every genre of television. Under the auspice of Windborne Music, he is arranger/conductor for 14 symphonic rock programs including: The Music of Whitney Houston, The Music of Michael Jackson and the Music of Queen with the Pittsburgh Symphony. “When he passed away,” Havens continued, “We had a lot of orchestras asking if this was something we would be doing and I did the research and into his material and we thought it would be a good thing to do. I think that with a lot of these artists, the sheer magnitude of their personality, their voices, everything they put into their performances and the music people connect with them. Prince’s music is also very rhythmic and that also has something to do with it.” In addition to the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Charloff, and Havens, The Music of Prince will also feature vocalist Ann Marie Castellano, Eldon Sully on guitar; Dan Clemons on bass guitar; Powell Randolph on drums and keyboardist Justin Avery. Tickets for “The Music of Prince” range from $25 to $65 and can be purchased by visiting www. pittsburghsympjony.org or calling (412) 392-4900. “You’re going to see what Prince might do on stage. We don’t normally do impersonations but in this particular show, Marshall dresses up like Prince a bit and he sounds like him,” Havens said. Charloff is glad to be performing the show in Prince’s honor. “Everything we do is with deep respect for Prince. I had personal meetings and exchanges with Prince,” said Charloff who hails from Minneapolis. “Being
MARSHALL CHARLOFF from Minneapolis, it’s really impossible to be in the music industry and not have a connection to Prince and to the industry basically he created here in Minneapolis. I met
saying ‘Prince is my cousin’ and I didn’t believe him I thought he was lying. “So he said ‘Let’s go hang out with him and then maybe you’ll believe me’ and that’s what happened.
BRENT HAVENS Prince when I was 18. I was in a band with his first cousin, Frank, at the peak of his purple ‘reign’ the whole thing was blowing up here in Minneapolis and his first cousin kept
We went to one of his rehearsals and I was introduced to him and he invited me into the rehearsal and I got to chat with him and I got to exchange some ideas,” Charloff continued.
“Being around him seemed really normal, He was a lover of music on a level that I don’t think most people will ever get to. He WAS music.” Charloff is the front man for The Purple Xperience (which has performed in Pittsburgh numerous times over the past six years).. Imaginatively styles the magic of Prince’s talent in an uncannily unmatched fashion with his appearance, vocal imitation and musicality on guitar, piano, bass and drums. He taught himself to play guitar at age 15 and later taught himself to play piano, bass and drums. He is a celebrated producer and recording artist. His last two records are on the album “94 East,” featuring Prince on which Charloff appeared on keyboards
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and bass guitar. In 2009, Charloff teamed up with Dr. Fink from Prince and the Revolution and Pepe Willie from the band 94 East to perform at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Benefit concert. More information on Charloff can be found at www.marshallcharloff. com. Attendees of “The Music of Prince” will get to see Charloff perform Prince’s classic hits behind the world-renowned Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and other live musicians. “The show is very powerful,” Charloff said “because the music itself is already powerful and the symphony—some of the most amazing musicians on earth—and the vocalists all coming together with a beautifully written score, it’s almost a religious experience on stage. The fans can expect a party, which isn’t something that typically comes to mind when you think of going to the symphony. “It’s a celebration of life and a celebration of the music,” Charloff continued. “There are smiling face people who are dancing in the aisles and dancing in their seats and that’s just the power of that music and that was the intent of the songs. It’s a party atmosphere in a symphony hall.”
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TV One hosts ‘Media’ bi-coastal premiere SILVER SPRING, Md.— TV One’s new original film, “Media” was debuted in a series of exclusive screenings in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., for journalists, industry-insiders, fans and influencers at the Pacific Design Center Silver Screen Theater in L.A., the Baldwin Hills Cinemark Theater during the Pan African Film Festival and the AFI Silver Theater in Silver Spring, Md. The red carpet events and Q&As featured Radio One Founder and Chairperson Cathy Hughes, who executive produced the film, along with cast members Brian White, Pooch Hall, Penny Johnson Jerald, Stephen Bishop, Denise Boutte, Blue Kimble, Chrystee Pharris, Jillian Reeves, Stelio Savante and Jeff Sprauve, as well as members of the creative team. Q&A sessions following each screening were moderated by Kevin Frazier and Nischelle Turner of Entertainment Tonight in Los Angeles, as well as Radio One host Donnie Simpson in D.C. The dramatic film premiered Saturday, Feb. 25 at 8 p.m. on TV One. “‘Media’ is a positively motivating story about families and the problems that they go through, but also the love that bonds them together,” said Hughes. “This has been one of the greatest blessings of my career and I am hopeful that our audience will find it as exciting to watch as I found it exciting to make.” Passion, intrigue and murder become a lethal recipe for powerful matriarch Jackie Jones and her children in this captivating drama. Portrayed by Jerald (“Castle,” “24”), Jackie Jones is the founder of Jones Universal Media Properties, known as JUMP, the world’s premier urban media conglomerate. A family tragedy forces her son, prominent lead city attorney and prosecutor Michael Jones, played by White (“Scandal,” “Chicago Fire,” “Stomp the Yard”), to abandon his political aspirations and take over the company just as a ruthless rival challenges JUMP’s longtime domination of this lucrative industry. When Michael Jones steps up to run the company, he is confronted by the sins of the past, and the dangers of the present when Gary Dourdan (“CSI: Crime Scene
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CATHY HUGHES (Photos provided by TV One)
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Investigation,” “Jumping the Broom,” “Love Under New Management: The Miki Howard Story”) as Jabbar Randolph, CEO of JUMP’s biggest competitor, is released from prison. Grabbing back the reigns from his brother, Will, played by Stephen Bishop (“Being Mary Jane,” “Moneyball,” “Battleship”), he embarks on a mission of revenge, betrayal and corporate intrigue. The Jones family, rounded out by the eldest son, Clay Jones portrayed by Pooch Hall (“The Game,” “Ray Donovan”) as the mercurial head of the family business; Chrystee Pharris (“Passions,” “Scrubs”) as the only daughter, Crystal Jones, JUMP’s CFO,
MONIQUE COLEMAN Premier attendee
and hard-partying youngest brother Anthony Jones portrayed by Blue Kimble (“Devious Maids,” “Fast Five”) are caught in a deadly game of espionage, de-
ception and survival. TV One’s “Media” also features Finesse Mitchell (“Roadies,” “SNL,” “Brothers in Atlanta”) as DJ Drive, JUMP’s most valuable as-
set; Denise Boutte (“Meet the Browns,” “For the Love of Ruth”) as Danielle Jones, Michael’s elegant, neglected wife; Jimmy Gonzales (“Taken 3,” “Sin City: A Dame to Kill For”) as Silvan Testa, a corrupt TV producer willing to resort to any means necessary to succeed;Stelio Savante (“The Making of the Mob: New York,” “Ugly Betty”) as Harold Boston, an underworld powerbroker sent to prison; Jillian Reeves de Ortiz (“Let’s Talk,” “The 12th Night”) as Gisele Marks, a resourceful and aggressive businesswoman whose personal life is undermining her professional accomplishments; Jasmine Kaur as Sofia Perez, JUMP’S General Counsel and longtime family friend, and Diane Kirby (“Returned”) as Steph, DJ Drive’s quick-witted on-air sidekick. “Media” is executive produced by Hughes and her production partner Susan Banks (“Fright Night Files,” “Fear Files,” “Second Sight”), Kevin Arkadie (“New York Undercover,” “Soul Food,” “The Shield”), who also served as writer and Sheila Ducksworth (“With This Ring,” “Why We Laugh: Funny Women”) ,and was produced for TV One by Ducksworth Productions. Tracy “Twinkie” Byrd, CSA, served as casting director. “Media” is directed by Craig Ross, Jr. (“Rise Again,” “NCIS,” “Bones,” “Motives”). For TV One, Lamar Chase is executive in charge-ofProduction and director of Original Programming; Donyell McCullough is senior director of Talent & Casting; Robyn Greene Arrington is VP of Original Programming; and D’Angela Proctor is head of Original Programming. “Media” was filmed on location in Atlanta.
‘Get Out’ Depicts White privilege, Black depreciation by Merecedes J. Howze For New Pittsburgh Courier
If any one is familiar with Comedy Central’s original series “Key and Peele,” then you automatically expect raw laughter and some difficult topics camouflaged as comedy. But, when one of the members of the dynamic duo transformed his vision into a film, it surprisingly makes some of the scariest issues both funny and real. Jordan Peele wrote, directed and produced the recent thriller “Get Out.” A story about a young Black man, Chris (Daniel Kaluuya), who travels to an affluent suburb to visit his White girlfriend’s family. Upon arrival, it is evident that there is something wrong with the Black residents and as his suspicion rises, he discovers a terrifying family tradition. In the wake of random videos surfacing on the internet, from our boisterous President Donald Trump to Kanye West’s ex-girlfriend’s poetic justice, this movie is right on time. The movie’s ideas and topics are racially motivating and thought provoking. While many current films are now playing it safe when it comes to discuss-
DANIEL KALUUYA ing race relations, “Get Out” pushes the envelopes and forces the audience to evaluate the role of White people in the modern-day oppression of Black people. As a Black woman, I am constantly concerned about the mass manipulation and cherry picking of African Americans, especially our men, to further an agenda that only hinders the Black community. Often times, everyone from professional athletes to musicians, even at the height of their ca-
reers, are employed by or dealing with a White person who further benefits from their work. I hate to get philosophical, but there is no question that “Get Out” holds a deeper meaning than its simple plot. It shows how some White people (not all) systematically and generationally deprecate the value of Black lives through exploitation and many forms of abuse (social, mental, physical, and financial). “Get Out” got increasingly creepier as the film progressed. There were moments of suspense, tension, relief and laughter. Some fresh, new faces like Kaluuya and Allison Williams were mixed with some old ones, such as Catherine Keener and Bradley Whitford, and that was a great balance too. Peele should be commended for taking such a risk. His directorial debut is relevant, pushes all the right buttons, and, most importantly, steps outside of his comedy comfort zone. 3.5 STARS
March-April Tasting/Screening
MARCH 1—Requiem for Rice presents Taste the Sea Islands with director/ filmmaker ulie Dash, a tasting of authentic Gullah Geechee cuisine from the South Carolina and Georgia Sea Islands and a special screening of award-winning filmmaker Dash’s classic, “Daughters of the Dust,” at p.m. ickets for ullah Geechee Food Tasting and film screening are 0 in advance and at the door) At 7 p.m., hear inspiring remarks by Dash and at 7: 0 p.m., watch “Daughters of the Dust” for the first time or like you haven’t seen it before ickets for film screening only are 12 in advance and 1 at the door). ickets available at http: www.requiemforrice.com.
Sunstar
MARCH 1 he elly Strayhorn heater presents the return of S NS AR, a biennial celebration of the creative contributions of women in the arts, entrepreneurship and community. Bold, creative, powerful and compassionate, S NS ARS are bright like their namesake. his year’s S NS AR is a celebration of the many dynamic, unstoppable women and femmes who build community through creative and artistic endeavors that unite us all and create opportunity for others. his event will take place at S ’s Alloy Studios and Ace Hotel Pittsburgh, and includes events such as a workshop, a breakfast, and a performance. ickets are Pay What Makes ou Happy, allowing audiences to pay any price, and are available online at www.kelly strayhorn.org, by phone at 412 000 or at the door.
FINDINGS
MARCH 4 11 Pittsburgh Playwrights heatre Company presents “F ND N S” by Arlene Weiner and directed by isa Ann oldsmith.
Celebrating Peace
MARCH 4 he Wilkinsburg Sanctuary Pro ect is celebrating the Fifth Anniversary of the Art and alent Show for Peace from 1-4 p.m. at the Homewood Branch of the Carnegie ibrary of Pittsburgh, 7101 Hamilton Ave. The Show is open to youth grades 12 who live, worship or go to school in Wilkinsburg or Homewood. Participants will be presenting their views on peace through art, poetry, dance, song, and rap. Reverend anet Hellner Burris, (WSP Convener and Pastor, Christian Church of Wilkinsburg) says “ he youth in this Show are a witness that peace is possible and have been a oy to behold.”
Jazz Concert
MARCH 11 he Mark Whitfield Family Band along with he Mark Strickland Quartet will perform at the elly Strayhorn heater
Lights Out
APR 4 1 Writer by Steve Hallock and director by Cheryl l Walker pre sent the “ ights Out” 2017 World Premiere. t’s about a power outage that stalls a Pittsburgh trolley in a tunnel beneath Mt. Washington on a late Friday night that leads to a set of encounters among a train of strangers that spark fear, accusations, confessions, guilt and love as the riders share thoughts of wisdom, philosophy, music and religion, mixed in with a few drinks and some a and blues riffs.
Jazz Concert
APR Quintet ield will Ha lett
2 erell Stafford featuring Tim Warfperform at the New heater.
‘Hercules Didn’t Wade In The Water’
MA 21 he World premier of ”Hercules Didn’t Wade in the Water,” written by Michael A. ones and directed by Wali amal, will host its premier. t’s about two men who cling for life on a rooftop, surrounded by murky water, festered with disease and the unknown. Two women are hundred of miles away, striving to see their dreams of life, love and the pursuit of happiness come to fruition. All of this set against the threat of one of America’s greatest disasters.
HEALTH
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
MARCH 1-7, 2017
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Take charge of your health today. Be informed. Be involved.
How worried should I be about my drinking water?
ESTHER BUSH
Water quality This month, the “Take Charge of Your Health Today” page focuses on a timely issue in Pittsburgh— water quality. Jennifer Jones, MPH, community engagement senior coordinator at the University of Pittsburgh Clinical and Translational Science Institute, discussed this topic with Esther L. Bush, president and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh. EB: Good morning, Jennifer. So many people are talking about water quality in Pittsburgh right now. JJ: I know. We scheduled this topic a few months ago. But now is the perfect time to discuss this, especially given recent events with the boil water advisory that affected many city residents last month. EB: This is a topic that I feel very passionate about. Americans have a tendency to think that water is not a problem here because we’re not a developing nation. Recent local events, and other news stories from around the country, show us that water safety and quality are issues we need to be concerned about in the United States—and also worldwide. JJ: Yes, I agree. I don’t pretend to be an expert on water. I’m glad that we have expert researchers, like Dr. Aaron Barchowsky from Pitt Public Health, who study water and the environment. Water quality is an important public health issue. Water is the most basic human necessity. Water helps our bodies to flush out harmful toxins (poisons), carries nutrients to our cells, gives us energy and promotes healthy skin. The majority of our body composition—approximately 60 percent—is water. EB: Jennifer, can you tell me a little bit about the Environmental Protection Agency’s ( PA) work with water? JJ: Sure. The EPA is a government organization with a mission to protect human health and the environment. This includes air, land and soil and water quality. The organization does a lot of research about harmful toxins. It provide laws and regulations. In the case of water, approximately 286 million people ( percent of the total population) get their water from public water systems. These water systems are regulated by the EPA. Even with regulations and testing, water contamination can happen, making drinking water unsafe. Contamination can come from sewage releases; chemicals like lead, arsenic or radon; or land use practices, like pesticides. When contamination occurs, negative health effects can result, especially in children and pregnant women. EB: It’s so important that we as citizens are educated on this topic. I attended a conference on water a few years ago, and it was so interesting and engaging. Because of that, I have a greater appreciation, but also a greater concern, about the water I drink. It’s expensive to buy water and filters. Because so many people rely on public access to water, it’s essential to have safe water. I’m glad that we are connecting readers to information on the Allegheny County Health Department’s website. This is a great resource to all of us. I’m glad there are professionals that concentrate on these issues every day. Water is a precious natural resource that we cannot take for granted. I encourage people to think about ways they can conserve water. And if you do drink water out of bottles, recycle them. JJ: It’s always so nice to talk with you, Ms. Bush, and hear your insights. If anyone has any questions, the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh has a Health Education Office that would be glad to connect you to resources. I look forward to talking with you next month, as April is National Minority Health month. Any questions or comments can be sent to partners@hs.pitt.edu.
In the past year, clean drinking water has become a concern for some residents of Allegheny County. From the discovery of high lead levels in some City of Pittsburgh residents’ tap water to the recent boil-water advisory in some parts of the city, people are wondering how worried they should be about their tap water. Federal and state laws require that public drinking water suppliers test water regularly for anything that might make the water impure (contaminants) or unsafe to drink or use. In the summer of 2016, many City of Pittsburgh residents received letters from their water provider, Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority (PWSA), that tests from tap water in some homes showed high levels of lead. As PWSA, the City of Pittsburgh and residents continue working to fix the situation, one question weighs heavily on many people’s minds: How do we protect ourselves and our loved ones? It is important to understand why lead in drinking water
(Photo by Aaron Warnick/PublicSource)
is dangerous. No amount of lead exposure is safe. It is especially dangerous to infants, young people and pregnant women. Lead is stored in the bones and can affect people later in life. In pregnancy, babies get lead from the mother’s bones. Early exposure can slow brain development and cause difficulty learning. Lead damages the brain, kidneys, muscle development and the nervous system. “Lead in water mostly comes from old pipes,” says Aaron Barchowsky, PhD, professor of environmental and occupational health at the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health. Because many Pittsburgh homes were built decades ago, the pipes that bring water to their houses by Karen Hacker, MD, MPH Lead poisoning has been a hot topic in the media from the main service lines are often made of lead. in recent months. In addition to concerns with lead If you are concerned about in the water of our local systems, the Flint crisis lead in your water, find out continues to drive changes to state and federal laws, and there are continued efforts to educate the what is coming out of your faucet. PWSA customers public about the need to reduce sources of lead. can ask for a free lead test With so much information, it makes it difficult to (http://pgh2o.com/lead-testunderstand what it is that you need to know. ing-kits). Private wells are Let’s start with the basics. Lead is a metal that not monitored. Owners of affects brain development, particularly in children who are at the highest risk because their brains are private wells should get their PWSA Executive Director Bernard Lindstrom speaks at press still developing. Even low levels of lead in children’s water tested. The Allegheny conference Feb. 1, 2017 at the Allegheny County Emergency Operations Center to provide an update on recent boil-water blood can affect their IQ, ability to pay attention, ac- County Health Department advisory. (Photo by J.L. Martello) also provides information ademic achievement and criminal behavior. There on how to lower your risk of are many sources of lead – with the most common to other bacteria. E. coli comes from lead exposure (http://www.achd.net/safebeing deteriorated paint and lead-contaminated homes/drinking-water.html). People can buy animal or human waste getting into household dust in homes. Lead can also be found a water source, infected food or from bottled water, but that can be expensive in soil, water and in toys and jewelry from some and the bottles, if not recycled, create more contact with someone who has it. It foreign countries. can cause infections, serious diarrhea, waste in the environment. Filtered water So, what can you do? Because of the presence nausea and stomach cramping, among pitchers or faucet attachments can remove of lead in the environment, the Health Department other symptoms. But water companies some contaminants. ach brand of filter (ACHD) recommends that all children be tested for are continuously testing for biological lead at 9-12 months of age and again at 24 months. has its own claims as to what it filters, so it is best to read very carefully the information contaminations. Your health care provider can do the test and, “There’s an active treatment process depending on the results, may also repeat the tests provided with those purchases. to make sure drinking or recommend an investigation to determine the water is safe, and it is source. monitored constantly,” You can also take steps to reduce the risk of says Dr. Barchowsky. exposure in your home if it was built before 1978. “Water companies Have your house checked for lead-based paint. If have a chlorination renovating, repairing or painting, use only lead-safe process to purify the certified firms if you rent, talk with your landlord water. Decontamiabout fixing surfaces with peeling or chipping paint. nants—called chloraKeep painted surfaces in good condition. Wash mines—are put in the children’s hands, bottles, pacifiers, and toys often. water to keep bacteria Damp dust and wet mop your home and children’s levels down throughplay areas frequently. Get your soil tested before out the water system. you start gardening, or before allowing children Water companies pubor pets to play in bare soil. If you work with lead, lish the steps they’ve shower and change clothes before going home taken to keep water and wash your work clothes separately from other clean. Law requires clothes. that the companies What about your water? If you have lead plumbnotify consumers if any ing or pipes, and have not used your water for a problems happen.” few hours, turn on the cold water faucet and let According to PWSA, the water run for a couple minutes to flush any People can buy bottled water, but that can be expensive and the botlead particles out. Use cold water for cooking and tles, if not recycled, create more waste in the environment. (AP Photo/ it issued the recent boil-water advisory in preparing baby formula. Purchase and install a File) some parts of the City NSF approved filter for removing lead from water of Pittsburgh because testing at one site However, Dr. Barchowsky notes that, used for drinking. Get your water tested by talking had revealed a low level of chlorination. while lead in water is worrisome, “biologwith your local water provider, or contacting a No harmful levels of bacteria were found, icals are the largest concern.” Biological DEP-accredited lab for more information. but consumers were cautioned in case contaminants range from e. coli to giardia Our community still has work to do to decrease any bacteria had gotten into drinking the risk for all children, but we are seeing improvewater because of the low levels of chloment. More children are being tested (in 200 , over rination. 10,000 children compared to nearly 14,000 children To make sure drinking water is free in 201 ). While of children tested positive for Helpful websites with information about of any harmful contaminants, Dr. Barelevated blood lead levels in 2009, those numbers water quality and safety: chowsky suggests getting tap water are now below 1 as of 201 . We can continue to ACHD: www.achd.net/safehomes/ tested. Or, consumers can contact their see those numbers decrease through education drinking-water.html. water companies to ask how they are and awareness, and ACHD is committed to being a PWSA: http://pgh2o.com/ meeting environmental guidelines to partner with the community to help. PA Department of Environmental keep water clean. He recommends that For more information visit Protection: www.dep.pa.gov/ Citizens/ owners of private wells get their water http://www.achd.net/safehomes/index.html My-Water/PublicDrinkingWater/ tested because, otherwise, that water is (Karen Hacker is director, Allegheny County Pages/default.aspx not being tested. Health Department)
ACHD Safe and Healthy Homes Program
Helpful websites
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PEOPLE
MARCH 1-7, 2017
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Generation NEXT: Jasmine Jones is passionate about helping others by Renee P. Aldrich For New Pittsburgh Courier
Over the past two years, Jasmine Jones, 15, of Duquesne, has won a series of beauty and talent pageants. Her various successes in the world of pageantry—winning four different titles —has, in no way, diminished the gracious spirit she exudes. “The one thing about Jasmine that people point out all the time is that she always remains the same,” says her mother, Barbara Jones, a trainer at Target. “Being crowned and placing number one has never taken her outside her true character. Winning pageants has in no way made her high-minded.” Youth not withstanding, Jasmine already has a mature demeanor and is an example of what it is to be “more than just another pretty face.” She is an honor student at Propel Andrew Street High School in Munhall and a member of the school’s President’s Club, which recognizes students for both scholarship and character. Jasmine focuses her attention overall on how much she can do for others. Though somewhat shy, she is clearly able to articulate what drives her in her outreach to others. “It really makes me feel good to take part in activities that serve others,” Jasmine says. “I just think that you do not know what will happen in life, and I know if I had a need, I would hope that someone would help me.” Her reference is to the variety of activities she is involved in that directly benefit people who are disenfranchised. She is the founder of a ministry at her church that provides necessary items to individuals who are experiencing homelessness
— The Blessing Bags Ministry—which involves packing bags filled with the necessary items that the homeless population has difficulty accessing. She is also a volunteer at Ronald McDonald House. Giving back is not new to the young woman. Her parents set the pace early in the lives of their children. They felt it was important to show them that people go through life-altering experiences, but being less fortunate does not dehumanize them. “For many years, our children understood that every Christmas morning we would be at a homeless shelter sharing time and helping the residents, and after we were done, we’d come home and have our own celebration,” says her father, Rev. Melvin Jones. Jasmine got involved in pageants as a result of being an honor student. Top performers at her school all received invitations to participate in an upcoming pageant. She was a recipient and she wanted to try it. Her character traits were established long before she got involved in the pageant circuit, and those traits she brought to the competitions. Jasmine resides with her parents and has an older brother who is a freshman in
Consequently, Jasmine is an academic scholar and a leader. She is the vice president of the show choir and the captain of the varsity cheerleading squad. “It is unheard of that a sophomore would be voted in as an officer in the choir,” says Lindsay Smith, her cheering and vocal coach. “It is a clear sign of how much she is respected by her peers, and that they see her as a leader. With all she has going on, she remains a young woman filled with humility. She is so poised, extremely diplomatic and is a problem solver; there is nothing about her that is not exemplary—she is an outstanding student.” Already eyeing Carlow University, Jasmine aspires to become a pediatric nurse. She brings many skills to this goal. “I love working with the kids at the [church] nursery and helping them seems like a perfect next step of working with kids medically,” she says. Jasmine’s mother says she and her husband are proud of the way that Jasmine stays grounded. “She keeps her eyes on every prize, yet never loses focus of her passion—and that is reaching out to others.”
JASMINE JONES has focused her life on helping people in need. (Photo by Jacquelyn McDonald) college. The family attends and is very active in their church, Bethlehem Baptist, in McKeesport. “Focus on education was first and foremost in our home,” says Jasmine’s father, who runs the men’s ministry at their church and is a mechanical engineer for the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. “There is no television during the week—Monday through Friday, homework, ministry and extracurricular activities—television not on before Fridays at 8 p.m. We see that our most important job is to prepare her for success in education, in ministry and in life, in general, so that she ends up not just successful, but well-balanced.”
Each month in New Pittsburgh Courier, McAuley Ministries will sponsor an article highlighting the positive contributions of an African-American youth—male or female. We welcome community members to suggest a young person to feature in this monthly column. Criteria include: •Youth and young adults, ages 12-23 •Documented evidence of leadership or achievement in community service/ volunteerism; leadership or achievement in their classroom/school; creativity as an artist, musician, dancer or filmmaker; success as an entrepreneur; leadership in advocating for social justice and equity; and/or achievement in corporate or nonprofit arenas •A resident of Allegheny County. Readers who would like to suggest a youth for this feature should email GENNEXT@pittsburghmercy.org.
LIFESTYLES New Pittsburgh Courier
Overtime B9
MARCH 1-7, 2017
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
Classifieds Find what you need from jobs to cars to housing B7-B8
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Debbie Norrell
Lifestyles Report Where are the Black middle class? Part 1 Why can’t you find the Black middle class in Pittsburgh? I recently read a portion of a debate about the lack of Black middle class in Pittsburgh on Facebook. It was from a Pittsburgh Post-Gazette story about Black middle class people in Pittsburgh; or rather the lack of one. The comment went like this: “Very few of my friends that stayed in Pittsburgh really made anything of themselves—they are either struggling or just trying to make it. The ones that I know that have left have had more success as far as the professional ranks,” posted one person. There was one reply to that post that said, “We’re in a city without a Black middle class, which leads to lack of political clout and influence. Our neighborhoods are besieged by poverty and its outgrowths (crime, poor education system, single parent households).” “Hold up, wait a minute.” I took offense to that reply. I know a lot of people that I consider middle class. I know a lot of accomplished people––homeowners, business owners and some very educated people––that we feature right here, on the pages of the New Pittsburgh Courier. So this made me curious, what makes one middle class, in general, not Black or White? According to CBS Money Watch and a Pew research study, a median household income of $54,510 is middle class. This income can vary depending on where you live. Homeownership has long been a hallmark of the middle class. In a 2013 speech, President Barack Obama called it “the most tangible cornerstone that lies at the heart of the American Dream, at the heart of middle-class life.” Nine out of 10 Americans said a secure job is essential to being in the middle class, some also added health insurance to that. Hmmm, no wonder it is such a hot button topic. Investing for golden years is important to American’s middle class as well as a college education. Americans used to think that a college education was more essential for the middle-class label. In 1991, nearly half of those surveyed said a college education was important to the middle class. That number dropped to 37 percent in 2012, according to Pew. And here is something that may surprise you about a middle class label, a family vacation…it shows the family has disposable income. This may be the most important distinction of all: For many, being middle class is simply a state of mind. Less people are describing themselves as middle class….To me, this sounds like kids not wanting to be smart because it’s not cool, not hip. They know they are really smart, but feel more comfortable being with the bad kids or are not succeeding because being smart is like being White. I think what the people interviewed in the PG article were saying is that there is not a particular Black middle class neighborhood. Back in the day Blacks aspired to move to Churchill, Stanton Heights, Monroeville and Penn Hills because we felt somewhat welcome there. See part 2 next week.
WELCOME—Kathy Humphrey
KEYNOTE SPEAKER AND GUESTS—Keynote speaker R. Drew Smith, Rev. Dr. Angelinque Walker-Smith, and Eric and Cecile Springer.
FAITH:
The African American Church through American history by Debbie Norrell Lifestyles Editor
The University of Pittsburgh held its annual K. Leroy Irvis Black History Month Program, Feb. 9, at Alumni Hall on the University’s campus. Hundreds gathered to celebrate the enduring strength of faith and the role of the African American church throughout history, from slavery to present day, via spoken word, dance and song. With Kathy Humphrey, senior vice chancellor for Engagement, chief of staff HONOREE WITH FAMILY—Rev. Jimmy Joe Robinson, seated, with family. and secretary of the Board of Trustees), standing in for Pitt Chancel- A Strange Freedom North & South,” “Let Us March On lor Patrick Gallagher, who was under the Religion & Social Resistance,” “Never Would Have Made weather, the audience enjoyed the histo- It” and “Faith & The New Promise,” the story was continry of the church told in multiple parts by ued with song by the Pittsburgh CAPA Vocal Department keynote speaker R. Drew Smith, PhD, a and Some of God’s Children Gospel Choir. The Hill Dance FORMER VICE CHANCELLOR UNIVERSITY OF professor of urban ministry at Pittsburgh Academy Theatre told their portion of the story through PITTSBURGH—Robert Hill with honoree Dr. Theological Seminary. In between the dance. Jeannette South-Paul. This year’s event honorees were Rev. Dr. Jimmy Joe Robinhistory segments, “Highway to Heaven: son and Dr. Jeannette South-Paul. Both have a glowing bio. Reverend Robinson was a star athlete, Army veteran, former Minister at Bidwell Presbyterian Church, civil rights leader, social activist and, now, the subject of “They Call Me Jimmy Joe,” written by his son, James J. Robinson Jr. South- Paul is the Andrew W. Mathieson UPMC professor and chair of the Department of Family Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Her many honors include, the Pitt 225th Anniversary Chancellors’ Medallion and the Chapel of Four Chaplains Legion of Honor Award. Guests and honorees enjoyed a beautiful reception and each left with a copy of “They Call Me Jim- EVENT GUESTS—Donnella Drewery and Tawnya HILL DANCE ACADEMY Farris-Redwood my Joe.”
K. LEROY IRVIS BLACK HISTORY COMMITTEE—Pam Connelly, Linda Williams Moore, Lisa Garland, Ashley Liska and Crystal Rhae McCormick (Photos by Debbie Norrell)
EVENT GUESTS—Richard Robinson and Theresa Edwards
RELIGION
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Praise & Worship ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CATHOLIC CHURCH
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Turtle Creek church celebrates anniversary
Crawford & Centre Ave. Pgh., PA 15219 412-281-3141 Mass Sunday 9:00 A.M. & 12:00 P.M. Sunday (Gospel Choir Mass) 12:00 P.M. 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. www.metropolitanbaptistchurch.com metropolitanbaptist2224@gmail.com
Rev. Dr. Randy Bush, Senior Pastor 412-441-3800 116 S. Highland Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Journey Worship........8:45 a.m. Sanctuary Worship........11 a.m.
New Destiny CME Church 1018 Bidwell St. Pittsburgh, PA 15233 412-231-7882 Rev. Kornelus Neal, pastor The Rt. Rev. Marvin Thomas Sr., presiding bishop Sunday School....................................9 A.M. Morning Worship Service............11:00 A.M.
To have your church included in the Praise & Worship section contact Ashley Johnson at 412-481-8302 ext. 128 for ad rates.
Join our growing Praise and Worship Church Community
Pastoral Anniversary
MARCH 5—Help celebrate Rev. Donald P. Turner’s 46th Pastoral Anniversary at Second Baptist Church, 108 West 12th Ave., in Homestead, at 4 p.m. with Rev. Michael Peterson, pastor of Mt. Olive Baptist Church. On March 8, at 7 p.m., Rev. Barbara Gunn, pastor of Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in North Versailles, will be the guest speaker; followed by Bishop Jonathan Stewart, pastor of New Covenant Community Church, at 10:30 a.m. and Rev. James Burwell, pastor of Clark Memorial Baptist Church, at 4 p.m., both on March 12. The theme is “Dressed for the Battle,” from Ephesians 6:11. For more information, call 412461-8235 or email secnbapt@ gmail.com.
Pastoral Anniversary
East Liberty Presbyterian Church
www.cathedralofhope.com
Church Circuit
PASTOR BEVERLY JACKSON The spirit of celebration comes easy for Growing With God Non-Denominational Church of Turtle Creek, Pa. The ministry, still in it’s infancy, recently held their Second Anniversary Dinner as an excited senior pastor, Rev. Beverly Jackson, led the congregation filled with young people, community leaders and fellow pastors into a afternoon full of delightful soul food, song and mime presentations. The outreach ministry is on a mission to preach and teach the good news of Jesus Christ, and to witness and reach souls in the neighborhood, and beyond. Reverend Jackson invites all to come and share in their services and church activities at 100 Tri Boro GIVING THEIR SUPPORT—From left: Pastor Eileen Smith of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, West Newton, Pa., and Pastor Dr. Mitchel Nickols with wife, Quandra, of Bibleway Christian Fellowship Church, in New Kensington. Expressway.
MARCH 5-11—Triedstone Baptist Church of Rankin will celebrate Rev. Nathaniel and Rev. Terri Pennybaker’s 13th Pastoral Anniversary. The church is located at 18 Harriet St., in Rankin. For more information, call 412-271-3000. Guest preachers will be Rev. Barry Givner, Rev. Daniel Page, Rev. Dr. Darryl Canady and Rev. Christine Pope Portis.
The Balm in the Gilead
MARCH 6–Zion Baptist Church, 1300 Locust St., McKeesport, Pa., will host The Minority Partnership for HIV/AIDS Prevention and Awareness event at 6 p.m. Join this intimate affair were women and men are encouraged to share, pray and network with one another at dinner. For more information call 412-664-4762 or 412-628-0919.
Interfaith Service for Peace
MARCH 7—Interfaith Service for Peace and Justice at Ebenezer Baptist Church at 6 p.m. Tim Stevens, Chairman & CEO of The Black Political Empowerment Project (B-PEP) and co-convener of the Greater Pittsburgh Coalition Against Violence (CAV), will be the guest. Call 412-758-7898/ 412-2128775.
International Holiday
MARCH 19—The Mt. Olivet Baptist Church Educational Board will host its annual International Holiday. It’s feature of the brotherhood program and for 50 years has been representing a cross section of cultures, races, religions and ethnic backgrounds. Quality programs and a bounty of international foods are highlights. Proceeds support its pro ects of providing financial aid to youth education beyond high school. Professor Johnathan White will be the keynote speaker. For more information, call 412-471-3326.
Spiritual Retreat
MARCH 31—The Mercy Parish Nurse and Health Ministry Program, part of Pittsburgh Mercy and Trinity Health, serving in the tradition of the Sisters of Mercy, will host a two-day, overnight, spiritual retreat, “Listening and Becoming Free,” from 4 p.m. Friday, to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 1, at 4 p.m. at Kearns Spirituality Center, 9000 Babcock Blvd., Allison Park, Pa., 15101. For more information, contact Amy B. Armanious at ParishNurse@pittsburghmercy.org or 412-232-7151.
For rate information, call 412481-8302, ext. 128.
Trinity AME Fish Fry!
EVENT DINNER CHEFS
PSALMIST NICOLE PORTER
EVERY FRIDAY IN MARCH— Trinity AME Church, 2700 Wylie Ave., Hill District will host its Fish Fry. For more information call 412-621-9750. (Pre-orders are available.)
International Prayer Breakfast
APRIL 1—Mercy Acts International sponsors its Second Annual Prayer Breakfast at 9 a.m. at the Double Tree Hotel, 101 Mall Blvd., Monroeville. The guest preacher will be Rev. Glenn Grayson, Wesley AMEZ, Centre Ave.; the minister of ceremony will be Rev. Barbara Gunn, Mt. Caramel Baptist Church; and the psalmist will be Brendan Williams of Kingdom Light Ministries International. For more information, call 412338-1447.
We are looking to feature our positive youth in the church communities. You can e-mail, fax or mail their bios and photo to:
Priscilla Shirer Simulcast
APRIL 8—The women of Bethany Baptist Church, 7745 Tioga St., will host the Priscilla Shirer Simulcast from 10 a.m.5:30 p.m. Reservations are required. Call 412-241-0677.
New Pittsburgh Courier 315 E. Carson St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Fax: 412-481-1360 email: newsroom@newpittsburghcourier.com
ANNIVERSARY FRIENDS AND FAMILY (Photos by Jackie McDonald)
(For church news or events please send one paragraph with who, what, when, where and why, 2 weeks in advance with a contact person and phone number to newsroom@newpittsburghcourier.com)
BUSINESS New Pittsburgh Courier
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MARCH 1-7, 2017
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
Southern California firms benefit from Goldman Sachs program
Alumni create jobs, increase revenue
by Stacy M. Brown For New Pittsburgh Courier
(NNPA) LOS ANGELES—Eight hundred Southern California businesses have joined thousands of entrepreneurs across the country in an initiative to create jobs. The business owners are participants in Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses, a scholarship-based program that convenes them to learn critical business skills and create growth plans for their companies. Just one of these local entrepreneurs is Patricia Watts, of FCI Management. “I’m a year out of the program and we’ve SHARING KNOWLEDGE—“10,000 Small Businesses” faculty member Farshad Rafii shares ‘actions for added about three employees,” said Watts, growth’ insights during a recent cohort in Southern California. (Goldman Sachs) who in 1998 established FCI, a Long
Don’t go broke in retirement
Will you be able to live the life you want after you quit working? Running out of money in retirement was the top financial concern among financial planning clients, according to a survey of CPA financial planners conducted by the American Institute of CPAs. Maintaining current lifestyle and spending habits came in second. Whether retirement is right around the corner or decades away, it’s smart to have a financial plan that will ensure you have the funds you need when you’re ready. The Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants offers valuable advice to help you reach your retirement goals. Get the right investment philosophy If you take too many risks investing your retirement savings, you may lose some or all of your nest egg. If you’re too careful, though, you could miss out on growth opportunities that could increase your savings. The right investment choices for you will depend on a variety of factors, including your own risk tolerance. Your CPA can help you understand your options and provide insights that will help you make the best decisions for your needs. Prepare for a long life Don’t underestimate how long you will need to rely on your retirement funds. As a general rule, it’s best to be optimistic about your life expectancy so that you’re sure to have the funds you need to live a long and happy life. According to Social Security Administration data, men who are 65 today can expect to live to around age 84.3, while women who are 65 are anticipated to live to 86.6. In addition, one in four 65-year-olds today will live past age 90, and one in 10 will live beyond age 95. Your health, family medical history, and other factors will have an impact, but these statistics can give you a general sense of the amount of time you will need your retirement savings to last once you stop getting a regular paycheck. Get the whole picture on income Have you considered what your retirement budget should look like? Only 48 percent of workers or their spouses have tried to figure out how much they’ll need to live SEE BROKE B4
Beach-headquartered company that develops and implements energy and water efficiency solutions for corporate, residential, commercial and industrial clients as well as for public and private schools, universities, and government and municipal agencies. “We also had about a 15 to 16 percent growth in revenue,” Watts said. Watt’s story is not unique. The Goldman Sachs “10,000 Small Businesses” curriculum is designed by Babson College, the leading business school for entrepreneurship. Just six months after their graduation, 69 percent of alumni see revenue growth. Approximately 48 perSEE FIRMS B4
Women’s Business Enterprise Council introduces new president by Diane I. Daniels
Business, was an interactive workshop that took women business enterprise ownFor New Pittsburgh Courier ers through a step-by-step process to Since taking the reins better their business plans. Activities as president of the Wom- included creating a three-year vision en’s Business Enterprise and building an action plan and it Council PA- DE- sNJ near- provided access to resources to comly two months ago, Angela plete the steps. Get to Know Us, held at the Dowd-Burton has been on a steady roll of action. The Wyndham Grand Hotel provided former Executive Director an opportunity for attendees to of Economic Opportunity meet and network with WBEC for the City of Philadel- corporate and government agenphia has been gearing up to cy members and women business make a difference in wom- enterprise representatives. Particen business owners’ lives ipants were informed about Womby expanding opportunities en’s Business Enterprise National and eliminating barriers in Council and WBEC’s 2017 program initiatives, WBE recognition opportunities, the marketplace. “I’m excited about this business development training, executive opportunity,” she said. “In education programs and upcoming busiaddition to advancing the ness opportunities. Local WBEC member representatives women that already know and value this certification on hand were Chevron, Highmark my goal is to help and open Health, Ernst and Young the eyes of women who are LLP, FirstEnergy Corporeally pondering whether ration, Federal Home or not certification adds Loan Bank of Pittsvalue. I want to answer burgh, UPMC, Althat question for them with legheny County clarity that it does. Women Department of that are thinking of start- MWBDE, U.S. ing a business I want to Small Business WELCOME TO WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA—As the recently appointed president of WBEC, Angela help them build the con- Administration Dowd-Burton greets attendees during the Get to Know Us event. (Photos by Diane I. Daniels) fidence to get in the game and the Califorand to be self-sufficient, nia University of PA, GACO, PTAC/ Govern- fourteen regional partner to have certified more than independent and aware of ment Contacting Assistance Center. organizations, the Coun- 1100 Women Business EnHoused in Philadelphia, the WBEC is cil administers WBENC’s terprises that generate their potential.” Last week Dowd-Bur- a purchasing council for nationally certi- National Certification $8 billion in revenue and ton and WBEC President fied women’s business enterprises based Standards and the U.S. employ almost 40,000 in Emerita, Geri Swift were in Pennsylvania, Delaware and southern Small Business Adminis- the region and counting 54 in Pittsburgh hosting two New Jersey. The Council provides WBENC tration’s Women-Owned corporations and governevents geared toward help- women business enterprise certification Small Business certifica- ment agencies as members, ing women get their busi- as well as educational, networking, pro- tion in Pennsylvania, Del- ranking it third among nesses on the right track; curement-related, and informational pro- aware and southern New councils across the counListening to Your Business grams and services that foster growth and Jersey. WBEC is also the try, Dowd-Burton pointed business opportunities between WBEs third-party certifier for the out what she considers the and Get to Know Us. Hosted by Robert James, and purchasing entities, including major Commonwealth of Pennsyl- corner stone or guide post program manager for sup- corporations and government agencies. vania and the City of Phil- of WBEC, its CORE values; As a Women’s Business Enterprise, adelphia. plier diversity at Highmark SEE COUNCIL B4 Health, Listening to Your National Council co-founder and one of With the WBEC claiming
‘Production minus sales equals scrap’ (TriceEdneyWire.com)—A good friend of mine, Mitch Melson, made the above statement when we worked at Special Market Services in Chicago during the mid-1980’s. It is so appropriate as we continue our four-part series on how to make Black history in addition to just celebrating it. During that same period the reality of product distribution became even clearer with the development of P.O.W.E.R. (People Organized and Working for Economic Rebirth), a sales/ distribution partnership between The Nation of Islam and Johnson Products in Chicago. Another point of clarity for me back then was the American Health and Beauty Aids Institute that featured “The Proud Lady” logo on its product labels to denote they were made by Black people. Those efforts, along with Dick Gregory’s Bahamian Diet Drink and its difficulty in getting shelf space in major stores, pointed out the need and advantages of having our own distribution network. Then in 1999, I met Ken Bridges who, along with Al Wellington, founded the MATAH Network, in an effort to assure that Black manufactured products did not become scrap, but would instead be distributed throughout the United States via what they called, “The Black Channel.” MATAH was a “people, a movement, and a business”—a new paradigm in the distribution of Black-
made products. At website developer its zenith MATAH and host for the site, James Clingman carried some 300 these two brothers different products. got back together MATAH helped get and created a means my first two books in to connect Black distribution with its manufacturers of monthly “Auto-ship” products with conprogram, a consumers throughout sciousness-raising this country. Their component dedicated overall objective is to sending out books, tapes, and products to give greater visibility to Black manto those who signed up for this special ufacturers, and to get Black consumers value. to pledge to spend incremental amounts When Ken Bridges was killed by the DC each month on products made by Black Sniper, the morning after he and other people, thus, redirecting a significantly Black business partners and supporters higher amount of our money toward one had consummated a multi-million dollar another. deal to advance the MATAH Network, To paraphrase Amos Wilson, during the reality of having a Black owned disBlack History Month Black folks celetribution channel was stymied and began brate the inventions of our ancestors who to fade into a fond memory. actually “made history.” We remember Now, during this Black History Month, George Washington Carver, Jan Matzeligas we reflect on MATAH, P.O.W.E.R., and er, Elijah McCoy, Granville T. Woods, and AHBAI, we see those “pyramids” that others; but what will our history-making were built by our contemporaries, and we legacy be today? Make history by highsee how they “made” Black History. The lighting and purchasing the Black manusame issues apply regarding our current factured products of our contemporaries. willingness to make Black history in BAM brings that opportunity, only this addition to just celebrating it, which is a time by using technology to get the word great segue into what Ashiki Taylor and out and to rally Black consumers and Franklin Mayfield are doing with their producers. In essence, BAM is an online effort called “BAM!” Black channel of distribution that keeps As former MATAH associates, Taylor your products from becoming scrap. a Regional Supervisor, and Mayfield the One principle of Maat is Reciprocity, so
Blackonomics
this is also a call for Black manufacturers to spend some money as well. As we purchase your products, you should purchase advertising on the BAM website, Black radio, and Black print media. Be willing to sponsor events in some form or another, and buy other Black products yourself. A reciprocal mindset is a conscious mindset, and creates a multiplier effect where one dollar spent has the effect of three dollars spent. This is a way to make our own history in 2017. It is easy and pain-free. Stop celebrating so-called Black “spending power” of $1.2 trillion and start using it to create wealth for Black people. Redirect more of your consumption dollars to products made by Black people. Make your pledge, and keep it. And for all of you Black producers out there, list your companies on the BAM website and let us know what retail outlets carry your products, thus, making it easier for us to keep our pledges. Go to www.blackamericanmade.com and sign up. BAM has created a “no excuses” way for us to put our money where our mouths are by adding more Black-made products to our household product mix. Hot Sauce, barbecue sauce, diapers, sneakers, paper products, laundry detergent, baby food, ice cream, beer, and thousands of other products are made by Black people. Make Black history by purchasing as many as you can. Clingman Out. BAM!
B4
METRO
MARCH 1-7 2017
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Women’s Business Enterprise Council’s new president CONTINUED FROM B3
certification, opportunities, resources and engagement. Certification benefits include a business profile in WBENCLink, an internet database that is accessed by hundreds of corporations throughout the United States, access to a directory of corporations accepting WBENC certification, use of a special WBENC seal on your letterhead, business cards, and other marketing materials, participating in networking events, matchmaker meetings and trade shows with other WBEs, corporate and government buyers, becoming a member of the local Forum, which advocates on behalf of WBEs and facilitates corporate business opportunities. Also, according to the group’s website, WBENC has several exclusive initiatives for WBEs including WEBuy@wbenc.org, an electronic marketplace utilized by corporate members, government agencies and other WBEs to post RFPs and RFIs, scholarships for executive management programs including the Tuck/ WBENC Executive Management Program, and the nation’s largest conference
AN EXCITING TIME—President Angela Dowd-Burton and President Emerita Geri Swift look forward to continuing to developing and strengthening women business enterprises. and business fair for WBE’s. Bringing more than 25 years of diverse business experience, community outreach and public, private and non-profit sector knowledge to WBEC, Dowd-Burton says this is a good time to be in the WBEC president’s position. “I have a passion for seeing women succeed. Women rule the world, but they just don’t know it,” she pointed out vowing to help
Don’t go broke in retirement
CONTINUED FROM B3
comfortably in retirement, a survey by the Employee Benefit Research Institute found. Begin your calculations by taking a realistic look at how much income you can expect. In addition to your savings, include any pensions you’ll receive, parttime employment income you may have in retirement, and Social Security or other similar benefits. Anticipate your needs Now turn to your costs. Some expenses may decline in retirement if, for example, you downsize to a less expensive home or move to an area with lower taxes. If you’re not working, you may also spend less on clothing and commuting, although other transportation costs could rise if you move far from your relatives and make frequent trips to visit them. Keep in mind that there’s one cost that is likely to go up: health care. Don’t forget your health How much will you have
to pay for adequate medical insurance in retirement? And will it cover the unexpected health problems that can occur with aging? Even those covered by Medicare should budget for out-of-pocket expenses and other costs. An average 65-year-old retiring couple who have Medicare but no employer-provided insurance is expected to need an average of $260,000 for retirement health care costs, based on Fidelity’s Retiree Health Care Cost Estimate. Be sure that your savings estimates anticipate possible added insurance and out-of-pocket medical costs. Consult your CPA Every day, CPAs help their clients tackle a variety of financial issues, including retirement planning. You can turn to your local CPA with all your financial questions. To find a CPA in your area or for more financial tips, visit www.picpa.org/moneyandlife.
them utilize WBEC’s CORE values. Cautiously optimistic about the new US SBA leadership, Dowd-Burton said irresectable of climate there is opportunity out there you just have to find it. Creativity has to be unleashed in women owned businesses to find away. During her tenure at the Office of Economic Development she increased the number of firms registered with the city by more than 80 percent and the value of contracts awarded to small
businesses by more than 70 percent. She has worked at Rohm and Haas and Dow Chemical in various global positions including finance, procurement, business development, commercial management and government relations. She also served as Deputy Director of Finance and Procurement Commissioner for the City of Philadelphia. Holding a MBA in finance and a Bachelor of Science Degree in accounting from Drexel University, she is
active on many Boards and supports numerous causes. She is a lifetime member of the National Black MBA Association and serves on the Advisory Board of the Drexel University LeBow College of Business. She is the recipient of countless awards and acknowledgments including: induction into the Drexel 100 Alumni Hall of Fame; African American Chamber Vanguard Award to Commerce; Asian Chamber of Commerce Small Business Champion and the U.S. Small Business Administration Minority Business Champion of the Year Award. Dowd-Burton is preceding Swift, the founding president of the Women’s Business Development Center formed in 1995 as a training and development organization and under her leadership, the WBEC was created. Knowing and working with Swift for many years, Dowd-Burton complimented her by pointing out, “Geri is the best in this nation at growing women owned businesses.” Now living her life’s dream of helping women entrepreneurs become successful, Dowd-Burton says this is an extortionary time for her and the WBEC.
Letter To The Editor
Solar energy trade group responds to Dr. Malveaux’s latest column In her Feb. 9 column, “Why Isn’t President Trump Tweeting about the Solar Panel Industry?” Dr. Julianne Malveaux makes serious allegations, and on behalf of the solar industry we want to set the record straight. Consumer protection is a top priority for us—not just in word but in deed. We do not target communities of color; we embrace them. Solar works for all Americans —1.3 million of them have solar already. We will reach out to Ms. Malveaux to get any details she has and we will address any issues we discover. The solar industry has proactively taken a host of steps to protect consumers through an initiative commended by the Better Business Bureau. We’ve sat down with state offices and the Federal Trade Commission alike to ensure solar consumer protection. We’ve worked hard both to ensure consumers have accurate information as they consider solar for their homes and set up a complaint resolution process if anything goes wrong. All of our member companies, which total nearly 1,000, must follow our Solar Business Code, which governs interactions with consumers. We’ve even created disclosure forms
to give consumers a snapshot of the key terms of their contract. Consumer protection is our priority both because it’s the right thing to do, and because our industry relies on it. Buying solar panels is not like buying milk at the grocery store. Because a new solar array is not a small expense, companies offer various ways for consumers to go solar at an affordable price. You can pay with cash or loans or even lease the panels while keeping your electricity bill steady or cutting costs. And solar works, because of word of mouth. We want to ensure every solar job is a job well done. Ms. Malveaux argues that offering “no money down” makes the deal automatically dangerous. This is simply not the case. People buy cars or make home improvements with no money down every day. Please give consumers more credit. The solar industry will do its part to ensure our companies follow the rules, and we’ll happily work with the State of Florida to take swift action against the rare company that doesn’t. Thomas P. Kimbis Executive V.P. & General Counsel Solar Energy Industries Association
Firms benefit from Goldman Sachs program CONTINUED FROM B3
cent of the alumni create new jobs within that same timeframe. As a comparison, 23 percent of U.S. small businesses added new jobs in 2015. Community colleges across the country run the program in partnership with Babson College faculty, creating a direct connection between business experts and urban communities. Southern California is the only region in the country where two community colleges jointly run the program. Los Angeles City College and Long Beach City College partner together in the region, creating a scale of impact that is unique nationally. “We have reached 800 business owners and we have a graduation rate of 99 percent,” said Vivian Shimoyama, the regional executive director for the Southern California Region for “10,000 Small Businesses.” “Eighty-five percent of the business owners who participate collaborate with the other owners and they are growing their businesses together,” Shimoyama said. She added that “the program has had a great impact on not only increasing revenue, but on creating jobs.” The Goldman Sachs “10,000 Small Businesses” program offers practical business management education for entrepreneurs. Those accepted into the program experience access to the education, business support services, and peer-to-peer networking that helps grow their companies, Shimoyama said. For Watts, the program was a key step to understanding growth opportunities for her business. “The year before I started the program, I ended up at the end of the year in the red with a loss,” Watts said. “However, this year, one year later, we ended up with a profit that was significant, because it was almost a $1.5 million swing from loss to
profit,” she said. While participants in “10,000 Small Businesses” hail from a wide array of industries, they engage in the program from their shared experience as entrepreneurs. Southern California alumni include businesses focused on marketing and design, health and fitness, food service, staffing, education, manufacturing, and other industries. Through the peer-to-peer learning environment, the participants focus on overcoming universal business challenges such as human resources, access to finance, and leadership. “You know how people always say you should work on your business not in your business? I learned that I have not done a good job in training my leadership team to take on [some other responsibilities],” Watts said. “I learned that I have to look at my staff differently and that I have to make them accountable. I have to look at my financials month to month to see where there are gaps and to fill them and incorporate and bring in the right skill set of people.” With an eye to the future, Watts is ready to keep growing her business. “I’m looking forward to continued growth as a national company. I have an office in New York and an office in Atlanta and I’m looking to grow the company nationally and I’m looking at growing our business in the federal sector,” Watts said, adding that, “I’m always optimistic, the most optimistic person you’ll ever meet and my motto is ‘failure is not an option.’ I don’t accept it and I’m not having it.” Business owners are invited to apply to the upcoming cohorts of Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses at Los Angeles City College and Long Beach City College. Learn more at: http://www.10ksbapply. com.
BUSINESS CALENDAR Women in Skilled Trades Expo
MARCH 1—The Community College of Allegheny County presents a skilled trades career fair for women at its West Hills Center, 1000 McKee Road, Oakdale PA 15071, 12 to 4 p.m. Meet faculty members & current students in CCAC’s 30 skilled trades programs, including HVAC, Building Construction, Auto Mechanics and more. For more information, call 412-237-4546.
Business Growth Workshop
MARCH 8—In partnership with Paramount Co-op, the Women’s Business Center at Chatham University presents “Is Your Business Bankable,” 5:30 to 7 p.m., at 233 Merchant St., Ambridge, Pa. 15003. Learn what you need to prepare, including credit scores and repair, personal finances, financial spreadsheets and business plans, and the purpose of the funds. Also learn about the loan application process: what to expect, review process, requirements, red flags, and SBA loan programs. The workshop is free but registration is required. Call 412-365-2779 for more information.
Women’s Business Enterprise Networking Event
MARCH 9—The City of Pittsburgh’s Equal Opportunity Review Commission, Chatham University’s Center for Women’s Entrepreneurship and the Women’s Business Center present a morning networking event with City of Pittsburgh procurement officers, to 11 a.m. The event will feature small-group networking and information sessions for women-owned business enterprises to learn how to access more City of Pittsburgh contracts. Refreshments will be available. Call 412-365-2779 for more information.
PowerBreakfast
MARCH 17—The African American Chamber of Commerce of Western Pennsylvania will host its third PowerBreakfast meeting of the year, 7:30 a.m. at the Rivers Club in Oxford Center, Downtown. The speaker will be Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto.
Free Homebuyer Workshop
APRIL 5—The Mon Valley Initiative and the Braddock Economic Development Corp. Will host “Buying Your Own Home: You Hold the Key” will be held at 6:30 p.m. April 5 at The Overlook, 416A Overlook Way in Braddock, on the old UPMC Braddock Hospital site between Braddock Avenue and Holland Avenue. Jonathan Weaver, a housing counselor with Mon Valley Initiative, will talk about the steps that first time homebuyers should consider. Light refreshments will be served. To register, call 412464-4000, extension 4008, or email jweaver@monvalleyinitiative.com.
Business Energy Efficiency Grants
THROUGH APRIL 15— The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has to $1,000,000 of grant funding available in the 13th year of the Commonwealth’s Small Business Advantage Grant Program for small businesses that adopt or acquire equipment or processes that promote pollution prevention and/or energy efficiency pro ects. Applicants must be a for profit corporation, limited liability corporation, partnership, sole proprietorship or other legal entity with 100 or fewer full-time employees. Businesses can apply for 50 percent matching funds of up to $9,500 to adopt or acquire energy efficient or pollution-prevention equipment or procedures. Funding is eligible for those costs incurred between July 25, 2016 and June 30, 2017. For more information, contact the Small Business Ombudsman’s Office at 717-772-5160.
OPINION
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
MARCH 1-7, 2017
B5
Death with dignity
Guest Editorial
Trump and Black Caucus should meet President Donald Trump and the Congressional Black Caucus are reportedly planning to meet soon, and that’s good. United States Rep. Elijah Cummings, a senior member of the group, told CBS’ “Face the Nation” that Trump answered the caucus’ Jan. 19 request for a meeting “a day or so ago.” The Maryland Democrat said he expects the two parties will meet when Congress returns from a week-long break and discuss prescription drugs and urban issues. The possible meeting stirred controversy during Trump’s press conference last week when responding to a reporter’s inquiry, Trump suggested that Cummings had declined a meeting and asked reporter April Ryan, who is African American, to set up a meeting. “Will you meet with the Congressional Black Caucus?” Ryan asked. Trump responded: “I would. You want to set up the meeting? Are they friends of yours?” The testy exchange between Trump and Ryan, a veteran White House correspondent for American Urban Radio, was outrageous. It was completely inappropriate to ask Ryan to help broker a meeting with the Black Caucus. The exchange was, yet, another indication of Trump’s inability to relate to African Americans and his misunderstanding of the role of the press. Trump’s suggestion assumed a relationship between Ryan and CBC members because they are of the same race. To ask a reporter to do his bidding and set-up a meeting as if she worked for him is offensive. “I’m also really pleased he didn’t ask her to sweep and mop in the room where the press conference was being held,” Rep. Emanuel Cleaver of Missouri, a former CBC chairman, quipped during an MSNBC interview. Cummings said he never rejected a meeting. On Sunday, he attributed the late acceptance to Trump apparently not being “in contact with his staff properly.” After the news conference, the CBC tweeted a copy of a letter, dated Jan. 19 and addressed to Trump, requesting a meeting. The Caucus said although it got no response to that letter, Trump did reach out on Thursday and that plans for a meeting are now in the works. Regardless of how it was done, it’s good for the Black Caucus to meet with Trump. Previously he had met with African American celebrities and African American Republican conservatives. Despite its shortcomings, the Black Caucus is a more representative group of Black America, for Trump to meet. There are a wide range of issues for the two sides to discuss including an expected executive order soon from Trump on support for historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and his campaign promise to rebuild America’s infrastructure. (Reprinted from the Philadelphia Tribune)
Founded 1910
Rod Doss Editor & Publisher Stephan A. Broadus Assistant to the Publisher Allison Palm
Ulish Carter
Jeff Marion
Office Manager
Managing Editor
Circulation Consultant
John. H. Sengstacke
Editor & Publisher Emeritus (1912-1997)
The District of Columbia’s medical aid-in-dying bill may become law soon. The Death with Dignity Act was transmitted by the D.C. Council to the House and Senate; now, people, including religious groups, are debating it. Though Congress can still vote to overturn the law or try to defund it, overriding D.C.’s laws becomes more difficult after they go into effect. If it survives, D.C. will become the 7th jurisdiction to authorize medical aid in dying for terminally ill people. The District of Columbia joins California, Colorado, Montana, Oregon, Washington and Vermont. And while it is true that opponents want to defund and overturn the law, no funding is required for the law to go into effect. Terminally ill patients, in D.C., would now be able to legally get medical aid in dying. Doctors would be able to prescribe appropriate medications, under the law, without fear of prosecution. Various religious groups and Republicans have voiced their opinion against this law, with one group of preachers calling it evil. I, personally, see nothing wrong with it. It states terminally ill patients. If we are talking about my life, and if I am in my right mind, then I deserve and should have the right to make that decision, not politicians or religious groups. I disagree with the National Black Church Institute’s stand against this law. If someone in my family, or me for that matter, is in pain or terminal ill and nothing can be done to cure the illness or stop the pain, then I must have the right to die, if I choose. The bible says suicide is a sin, but is this suicide? It’s not like a healthy person jumping off a bridge or shooting themselves. God gives us all Free Will and gave us a mind to decide for ourselves. That means that God
Ulish Carter
Just Sayin’ is telling politicians and religious groups that he did not put them there to make decisions for the terminally ill. Yes, they can give their views, but they should never have the right or power to block my Free Will. I need to say that again. God did not give politicians or preachers the right to block my Free Will. I’ve witnessed people in comas for years before they die. I’ve seen people loaded with painkillers, in order for them to live a few days. I’ve watched people cry out in pain, asking for mercy, for God or someone to stop the pain; that is the case in most late stages of cancer and heart attacks, just to mention the two biggies. Life or death decisions should be left to the person. And if they are in no condition to make decisions, then the nearest family member, not politicians, doctors or preachers. They aren’t the ones in pain. And nobody can tell me that God is a merciful God, yet, he has no compassion for people living in pain and suffering. It’s easy for preachers to say people should depend on God’s grace and mercy when it’s not them or their wife, husband, child, mother, father or other loved one suffering. These preachers actually called the people supporting this law evil. Hopefully none of them, or their family members, will come down with a terminal illness, because if they do, I wonder how many will be singing,
“How I want to go to heaven to live with the King (Jesus Christ),” just one of many songs talking about dying and going to meet the Lord. I don’t know about dying with dignity, but I do know that we need to stop the pain and suffering. And if death is the only way, then death it is. Let that individual face God and the two of them can determine who was right. Public safety diversity The city of Pittsburgh Department of Public Safety is becoming a national model for diversity. I think? When I first came to this city in the early ‘70s, police Sargent Harvey Adams Jr., the then-local NAACP president, was leading a massive campaign to get more Blacks and women hired as police and fire officers, and even though they started it, all Blacks were not being hired as Emergency Service officers. The recent Public Safety promotions of Amera Gilchrist to assistant EMS chief, Lavonnie Bickerstaff to assistant chief of police and Eric Holmes to executive officer marks a positive point in Mayor Bill Peduto’s commitment to diversity in city government, especially to public safety. Congratulations goes out to Gilchrist, Bickerstaff and Holmes, as well as the other Blacks promoted during 2016. Congratulations also goes out to the Allderdice boys basketball team for winning their fourth consecutive City League championship with a 71-70 triple overtime victory over Obama Academy. And not to be outdone, the Obama Academy girls team won their fourth consecutive City League championship, 64-53, over Allderdice. Obama also won the middle school girls division, and U-Prep won the boys. (Ulish Carter is the managing editor of the New Pittsburgh Courier.)
The families of victims ‘as seen through the eyes of the shooter’ by Eddie S. Read, Activist
hundred unseen forces playing upon the little infant, the child, and finally Family and the community the man”…(Lyndon B. Johnson, com We must face the fact that we mencement speech Howard Universihave an impoverished underclass in ty June. 4, 1965). America. It can be found in AppalaThere is a subculture in the impovchia, the barrios, rural areas and for erished underclass that children are certain in the urban inner city. The trapped in. They seem to be stuntviolence is most egregious in the ur- ed by their families, neighborhoods and ban area because of the organized other contributing factors of destrucsubculture that historically sustains tion. Many who are impoverished don’t various conditions of violence, i.e. the shoot and kill. Therefore, we must look lifestyle of gangs. In today’s urban at the lifestyle, contributing factors and community, you have grandchildren character traits of those who do. that come from the womb born into I don’t believe you will solve this the lifestyle of gangs, just as the problem until you look through the grandchildren of the King and Queen eyes of “the shooter.” Once the shooter of England are born into aristocra- is caught he is diminished as a human cy. As children are born into the life being, he is classified as the scum of of a Muslim, a Christian, or a catho- the earth and in most instances, he lic, being born in the gang code, for is neither evaluated nor does he resome children, is almost as strong as ceive proper treatment. He is simply being born into a religion. Many of labeled as a criminal and imprisoned. the children in the family of violence No one seems to establish a profile experienced the world of violence be- of the shooter. However, when there fore they can spell or pronounce it. is another shooting, the same cycle Specifically, in the City of Chicago, occurs, the community is outraged, unlike many other urban areas, the they run to the aid of the deceased and entrenchment of the gang life and their family, “As They Should.” They the control of the street turf is a huge address causes and effects in generchallenge for many young children al terms of poverty, lack of education, even in today’s times. no strong family unit, lack of moral It is the young children of today values the issue of guns and various that don’t have the gang street struc- police concerns and strategies. ture in place that their fathers and Certainly, the great amount of attengrandfathers had in earlier times. tion to the deceased and their family is The structure that was enforced by most appropriate. But we must recogthe grandfathers of these children nize also that in the eyes of many, the have diminished due to a number shooter is also a victim. It is not just of contributing factors. Therefore, enough to lock up the shooter and feel the young people that currently live relieved that he has been punished. Let in the inner city of Chicago are still me strongly urge that you must start faced with the issues of crossing gang spending a great deal of time assessing geographical boundaries as well as who the shooter is and why he has beother challenges that cause them life come the shooter. I have been told that threatening situations. However, the some young people who participate in existence of the previously imple- violence are ingesting drug cocktails mented gang protocol has been seri- that will make them temporarily psyously diminished. There is no con- chotic. Some young men see the gun and crete entity that is enforcing street its incredible impact on life as a way of law nor street justice for violators showing their manhood. The matters of of what was once a well established mental health, more education, lack of code. Therefore, a current faction resources poor or no financial support of individuals elect to solve disputes or other debilitating issues are contriband grievances by using killings as uting factors. However, there are many the ultimate tool of enforcement. If more people who face the aforemenyou take a look at other cultures and tioned challenges and they do not shoot societies where gangs were promi- and kill. nent, there was an ensuing lifestyle of violence. Another strong contributing factor to the interpersonal violence is the act of anger that becomes rage. Many of the young boys of today have not been taught the principles of manhood that shows them that fighting should be avoided at all times and will take place when all else has failed. There is a kind of quick occurring emotionalism that seems to be more pervasive than discipline during certain confrontational situations. The looming question must be: What are the character traits of the shooter and his family? “Men and women of all races are born with the same range of abilities. But ability is not just a product of birth. Ability is stretched or stunted by the family you live with, and the neighborhood you live in by the school you go to and the poverty or the richness of your surroundings. It is the product of a
You must provide the expertise and the resources to develop and establish a profile that allows the shooter to be possibly identified before he shoots. A huge contributing factor is the kind of family and social network that the person is born into and lives within. In many instances, the behavior of the shooter is pre-disposed because he is born into a family and a network where violence is pervasive. Family and the government In a democracy, the role of the government is to make the playing field level for all of its citizens. “The Great Society,” as outlined by President Johnson, is a solid foundation for a well-balanced relationship between the family and the government. A careful review of the principles of “The Great Society” will give today’s government officials elected and otherwise an ample blueprint to establish a successful comprehensive relationship between today’s family and the government. That arrangement will enhance and improve the quality of life for those citizens who are the most disenfranchised. “The Great Society” was not a government entitlement program. It was the culmination of input from many representatives from across the nation that worked inside and outside of the government. Many of the participants were activists, advocates, elected officials, ministers and others who had spent their life’s work with impoverished and disenfranchised individuals. The purpose of “The Great Society” was to implement policy to protect the life and preserve the liberty of all of the nation’s citizens. In fact, the specific role of the government was to protect those who could not protect themselves. Through legislative initiatives and well crafted programs, citizens would be able to receive resources in an equitable way. We don’t need another government program as such. What we seriously need is a government that adheres to input from all of its citizens, particularly the most needy. (Eddie S. Read is a protégé of activist/journalist Lu Palmer. Read has spent more than 30 years as an activist in the grassroots community in Chicago, Ill. Contact: cbucbipo@ aol.com or 773-848-8049.)
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MARCH 1-7, 2017
FORUM
Political involvement Please repeat what Hop writes Louis ‘Hop’ Kendrick is necessary, To Tell not sufficient (TriceEdneyWire.com)—The unfortunate election of Donald J. Trump to the Presidency of the United States speaks volumes about the limits of African American involvement in the political system. Don’t get me wrong. I was born and will live and die a political junkie, obsessed with the minutiae of politics. Actually, I’m a recovering politician; having run for office, got my butt beat, and flirted with the possibility of doing it again for years. Politics is about making the rules of distribution, of deciding how laws determine who gets what, when, where and why. Politics importantly ensures that those who make the rules are favorably disposed toward justice and fairness. Politics allows resistance when those elected don’t follow the lead of their constituents. Economics and politics are closely aligned. Economics also determines who gets what, when, where and why. Socalled free markets determine the flows of economic distribution, but politics often regulates the way that these so-called free markets work. I say that these markets are “so-called” free because we know that politicians distort markets to their liking. During a recession, for example, politicians agree that bankers need a tight rein on them that they can’t simply exploit for the purpose of earning predatory profits. After a recession, some politicians might loosen the rein on bankers and decide to let predatory markets flow free.
Julianne Malveaux
Commentary African Americans have righteously focused on politics and the political system, especially during the early days of the civil rights movement, when the fight for the right to vote was a priority. People like Fannie Lou Hamer were beaten within inches of their lives because they were determined to vote. Medgar Evers was killed because he was organizing voters. We had a focus on laws. Dr. Martin Luther King once said, “The law will not make you love me, but it will keep you from lynching me.” And so we focus on the laws and on politics. The Trump election reminds us of the limitations of politics, and the need to focus on the economic aspects of our lives. Political involvement is necessary, but not sufficient for Black progress. Every single economic indicator shows African American people lagging. Not much has changed since Dr. King said, in 1967, “Of the good things in life, the Negro has approximately one half those of Whites. Of the bad things of life, he has twice those of Whites. Thus, half of all Negroes live in substandard housing. And Negroes have half the income of Whites. When we view the negative experiences of life, the Negro has a double share. There are twice as many unemployed. The rate of infant mortality among Negroes is double that of Whites and there are twice as many Negroes dying in Vietnam as Whites in proportion to their size in the population.” The numbers have changed some, but the bottom line is that African Americans are not full equal participants in our economy. How do we fix that? How do African Americans flex our full economic muscles? How do we reward those corporations that support equality, and punish, through selective buying and boycotts, those who oppose freedom and equal opportunity? How do we stomp with the big dogs like the Koch brothers who buy politicians with the same ease that some of us buy potato chips? Do we even stand a chance? I think that we have to spend as much time and place as much emphasis on economics as on politics. I think we have to be clear that poverty is a profit opportunity for some corporations. Attorney General Jeff Sessions has already reversed the Obama executive order that would stop the use of private prisons for federal incarceration. But these private prisons are machines of predatory capitalism, and now that Sessions has approved their use, their stocks are soaring. So we have to ask ourselves if our pension funds, mutual funds, or other financial instruments invest in corporations like Corecivic (formerly Corrections Corporation of America, $CXW) and the Geo Group ($GEO). Can we push our investors to withdraw investment from these funds? Or will we be willing, in the name of predatory capitalism, to profit from this chicanery? Similarly, from Ava DuVernay’s film 13th, we are reminded of the others who profit from the prison industrial complex, including those who provide meals (Aramark is one of those companies) and phone calls. How much discomfort do they impose on our incarcerated brothers and sisters to make a profit? Politicians make rules, but money talks when the nonsense walks. We need to spend as much time focusing on economics as on politics. We need to follow the money when we see oppression. And we need to be clear that the clearest path to Black liberation is that path that focuses on economics. (Julianne Malveaux is an author and economist. For more info visit www.juliannemalveaux.com)
I was engaged in a conversation last week and I was amazed at how frequent the expression was used, “Please don’t repeat what I said.” The expression on my face led one individual to remark that Hop does not agree with us refraining from the focus of our conversation. My response became the caption of this week’s column. One of the daily newspapers has been printing columns about the deplorable conditions of Blacks throughout Allegheny County. Over the last 20 years my column “Tell The Truth,” has reflected in numerous columns on this situation, so please repeat whatever I write. The residues of slavery have left a permanent effect on a great number of Blacks across the generations. Too many of us truly believe that we have limits, that White folks ice is colder, refer to youths who break the law as those kids instead of our kids, and we are not willing to accept that but by the grace of god they could be our offspring. Some of you made a committed effort to obtain an education and that in itself automatically means you are better than me. Some of us are the only Black in the neighborhood and our children are the only Blacks in the local school and we stick our chest out
The Truth
and brag, so definitely repeat what I write. The other day we stopped in a friend’s tavern to enjoy a glass of wine and much had not changed from our youthful days. The place was jammed, juke box blasting, people were speaking and cussing at the top of their voices, others were dancing and arguing over nothing. It was obvious to us which persons were in action. We reflected on years gone by and the fact that the biggest change in that particular setting was that every person had a cellphone. Yes, you can repeat what I write. Too many of us have forgotten that some years ago we sang, “We shall overcome,” and shouted “I’m Black and I’m proud,” and “Not going to take it anymore.” Somehow we have forgotten the need and importance of the NAACP. A large number of us who were raised in the churches of our parents and grandparents no longer see their churches as relevant. Those churches that they were raised in, got married in, parents’ funerals were there, now say they are not sophisticated enough, because we speak in tongue, clap and shout and holler Amen. Please repeat what Hop writes. (Louis “Hop” Kendrick is a contributor to the New Pittsburgh Courier.)
The Mayor of Johannesburg: A Trump type reality tale In August 2016 Nelson Mandela’s J. Pharoah Doss African National Congress lost their majority in Johannesburg and Herman Mashaba, the Democratic Alliance candidate, became the city’s first nonANC mayor, post apartheid. After high school Mashaba started selling African hair care products and became the company’s top earner. Mashaba secured a substantial loan from another businessman and launched his own hair care products company, which became the biggest hair brand in South Africa making him a millionaire. Now the Tycoon is a mayor, but Mashaba is also a political novice. He immediately ordered more visible policing, a cleanup campaign, and repairs to roads. Two years prior, he joined The Democratic Alliance, which is considered a White elitist party, and Mashaba’s opponents have branded him a sellout. Mashaba describes himself as a democrat and a libertarian. Because of the historical legacy of apartheid the national authorities (the ANC who has ruled for 22 years) have intervened systematically to resolve poverty and inequality, but Mashaba said, “I am against the government trying to solve everything. Society deserves less government…As long as we don’t adopt freedom policies we are not going to succeed. For any country to create wealth, you need individual freedom.” And he has “begged” businesses across the globe to help Johannesburg. A professor of politics in Cape Town stated there is strong anti-welfare state sentiment among many Black South Africans. “The ANC talk a kind of quasi-Marxist language, but…The country has had a Black commercial class for a century and a half.” And Mashaba’s “pull yourself up by your bootstraps” message appeals to those against a “culture of dependency”. He also accused the ANC of using race to divide the nation, he doesn’t approve of their affirmative action legislation and wants to do away with any mention of race. He does not want to be classified as a Black man by the government. Mashaba told the city if he didn’t deliver he should be fired. He said, “This was the last job in the world I needed, but I couldn’t just sit by and watch the ANC destroy my country …If Johannesburg works, South Africa works. I want to turn this city into a con-
Commentary
struction site. It is just a matter of political will.” Then at Mashaba’s 100 days in office event he stated that foreign nationals are involved in criminal activity in Johannesburg because they arrive in the city illegally. Mashaba’s comments were denounced as xenophobic and one reporter said the mayor has not produced any evidence that supports his claim. A week later Mashaba called a radio station and defended his statements. Mashaba’s spokesman said the mayor’s comments are not xenophobic. The mayor actually welcomes foreign nationals into our city and country because they buy goods, create businesses, and stimulate economic growth, but the mayor will continue to speak out against foreign nationals believed to be participating in crime. South Africa’s Home affairs minister said he would meet with the novice mayor and explain government policy and management of international migration. The minister warned that public officials should refrain from comments that might incite the public “to adopt xenophobic attitudes”. But violence against foreign nationals already broke out in South African townships. Recently, in Pretoria, South Africa’s administrative capital, hundreds marched to the foreign ministry calling for the deportation of foreigners who they accused of taking their jobs. These protesters were armed with sticks and pipes. Over a hundred foreign nationals flooded the streets saying they will defend themselves. South African police fired rubber bullets and tear gas to break up the clashes. Many blame the nearby mayor of Johannesburg for the current violence. A week before the anti-immigrant protest march Mashaba again linked illegal foreigners to criminality and told the local news they’re “holding our country to ransom”. Mashaba claimed he is not responsible for the violence and has sent a series of tweets condemning xenophobic attacks and said residents should not take the law into their own hands. He is now under intense pressure from human rights organizations to resign. If youth is wasted on the young, is it possible that a term of political office is wasted on a novice? (J. Pharoah Doss is a contributor to the New Pittsburgh Courier. He blogs at jpharoahdoss@ blogspot.com)
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Marc H. Morial
To Be Equal
Claims of ‘fake news’ are an insult to an institution that has risked lives to advance liberty (TriceEdneyWire.com)—“The brutality with which officials would have quelled the Black individual became impotent when it could not be pursued with stealth and remain unobserved. It was caught—as a fugitive from a penitentiary is often caught—in gigantic circling spotlights. It was imprisoned in a luminous glare revealing the naked truth to the whole world.”—Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In 1955, Jet Magazine and the Chicago Defender published photographs of Emmett Till’s mutilated corpse, igniting international interest in the American Civil Rights Movement. Defender reporter Mattie Colin, who covered the return of the teenager’s body to Chicago, captured his mother’s anguish in her poignant articles: “Oh, God, Oh God, my only boy,” Mrs. Mamie (Till) Bradley wailed as five men lifted a soiled paper-wrapped bundle from a brown, wooden mid-Victorian box at the Illinois Central Station in Chicago Friday and put it into a waiting hearse. The bundle was the bruised and bullet-ridden body of little 14-year-old Emmett L. Till of Chicago, who had been lynched down in Money, Mississippi. For many in the north, the brutality of the Jim Crow-era south was an abstract and distant concept. Reporters like Mamie Colin made it horrifyingly real. And no one dared demean it by calling it “fake news.” Friction between the White House and the journalists tasked with holding officials to account is part of a healthy democracy. But recent concerted efforts to delegitimize the news media are destructive and demoralizing. Among the low points of the recent presidential campaign were the vicious attacks on individual reporters which were a regular part of some rallies. White House press conferences, which should be a source of lively give-and-take, have devolved into ad hominem attacks. “The Civil Rights Movement would have been like a bird without wings if it hadn’t been for the news media,” Rep. John Lewis has said. Newspapers and the newly-popular medium of television brought into American homes disturbing scenes of activists in Birmingham and Selma being attacked by with dogs and fire hoses, beaten and tear-gassed by state troopers and sheriff’s deputies. A photograph of Selma activist Amelia Boynton, beaten unconscious, ran on the front page of newspapers and news magazines around the world. Among the martyrs of the Civil Rights Movement is Paul Guihard, a reporter for a French news service, who was shot to death in 1962 during protests over the admission of James Meredith to the University of Mississippi. Newspaper offices were the targets of shootings and bombing attempts. The men and women of the Fourth Estate continue to risk their lives in the performance of their duties. In the last quarter century, at least seven journalists have been killed in the line of duty in the United States, four of them murdered. One of the first important American journalists to face death threats for her reporting was Ida Wells, a trailblazing African American woman who documented the savage practice of lynching in the 1890s. The work of America’s journalists has resulted in some of our nation’s most important reforms. Upton Sinclair’s expose of unsanitary practices in meatpacking led to the passage of the Pure Food and Drug Act and Federal Meat Inspection Act. Seymore Hersh exposed the My Lai massacre and the Army’s subsequent coverup. Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein’s Watergate reporting led to the indictments of 40 Nixon Administration officials and the eventual resignation of President Nixon. The Washington Post’s publication of Florence Graves’ investigation into sexual misconduct on Capitol Hill led to the passage of the Congressional Accountability Act. Even the staunchest defenders of freedom of the press were not always happy with its results. As a delegate to the Continental Congress, Thomas Jefferson wrote, “Were it left to me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter.” As President, Jefferson blasted the press. But he never changed his position: “It is, however, an evil for which there is no remedy; our liberty depends on the freedom of the press and that cannot be limited without being lost.”
CLASSIFIED New Pittsburgh Courier
B7
MARCH 1-7, 2017
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
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MANAGING EDITOR
Seeking weekly newspaper managing editor for African American newspaper. Candidate must have prior newspaper experience, editing skills, writing skills, management skills, computer/Internet savvy, willingness to serve a local niche community, understand deadlines and ability to work with a fast paced production and marketing environment while maintaining high ethical standards. Candidate must also possess graphic layout skills. This is a full time position offering compensation commensurate to experience. Please send letter of interest, experience and resume to jobs@ newpittsburghcourier.com
ASSOCIATE PROVOST / ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS
California University of Pennsylvania seeks to hire an Associate Provost / Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs who will be a member of the Provost’s Academic Leadership team and will be responsible for providing visionary leadership for the University’s strategic planning, accreditation, and institutional assessment and outcomes efforts. The position requires an earned doctorate degree with 3-5 years of progressively responsible administrative positions in higher education. For a detailed job description, position requirements and instructions for application, visit www.calu.edu; click on Employment, then Staff Positions. All applicants must apply online. Integrity, Civility and Responsibility are the official core values of California University of Pennsylvania. Cal U is M/F/V/D/AA/EEO.
FINANCIAL ADMINISTRATOR
5 days, 35 hrs/wk. Eastminster Presbyterian Church in East Liberty. Provide budget oversight and accounting of all financial transactions. Proficient in Microsoft Office and financial database software. Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Financial Management; minimum 3-5 years’ experience in faith-based, non profit Accounting. Current AC 4, FB fingerprint clearances and credit check required. If you are BEST candidate, email resume to: office e st i sterch rch. et by March 3rd. Visit www.eastminster church.net for details.
Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium POSITION POSTING Posting Date: February 22, 2017 Removal Date: Until Filled Position Title: Director of Development Department: Development Position Status: Full-time, Exempt The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, a dynamic, fast-paced, get it done organization, is seeking a Director of Development. Don’t you want to be part of an organization that rescues elephants and orphaned sea otters and is becoming the leader in sea lion reproduction? As our new director, you will spearhead our 2013 $20 million capital campaign along with strategic planning, solicitation, promotion and oversight of the annual fund drive, major gifts program, capital projects, membership, special events and endowment fund raising to accomplish financial ob ectives by broad based financial support. ou will work closely with the Board of Directors, Ad-Hoc committees, volunteer groups, and attend and/ or chair committees. ou will supervise an exceptional team of five full-time and one part-time staff. ualifications include excellent oral and written communication skills, B.S Degree in related field, year’s progressive experience in financial development with non profit organizations and prior supervisory experience.Current/valid driver’s license required. A more detailed job description will be available during the interview process. Resumes without salary requirements will not be considered. Email resume/CV with a cover letter outlining salary requirements to HR@pittsburghzoo.org.
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NOTICE OF SHERIFF SALE OF REAL ESTATE PURSUANT TO Pa.R.C.P. No. 3129 IN THE COURT OF COMMON P AS OF A H N CO N , P NNS AN A CIVIL ACTION – LAW NO.: MG-13-001588 DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL R S COMPAN AS R S FOR THE HOLDERS OF GSAA HOM R S 200 1, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-1, Plaintiff, vs. Unknown Heirs, and/or Administrators of the Estate of Jacqueline A. Leech; Beth J. Leech, as believed heir and/or Administrator of the Estate of Jacqueline A. Leech, Defendants TO: Unknown Heirs, and/or Administrators of the Estate of Jacqueline A. Leech; Beth J. Leech, as believed heir and/or Administrator of the Estate of Jacqueline A. Leech Take Notice that by virtue of the Writ of Execution issued out of the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, and directed to the Sheriff of Allegheny County, there will be exposed to Public Sale at the Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, 4 rant Street, Room 111, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 on May 1, 2017 at 9:00AM, prevailing local time, your real property described herein. The Real Property To Be Sold is delineated in detail in a legal description consisting of a statement of the measured boundaries of the property, together with a brief mention of the buildings and any other major improvements erected on the land. The Location of your property to be sold is: 210 Oberdick Drive, Mckeesport, PA 15135 The Judgment under or pursuant to which your property is being sold is docketed to: No. MG-13-001588 A complete copy of the Notice of Sheriff Sale will be sent to you upon request to the Attorney for the Plaintiff, Kimberly J. Hong, Manley Deas ochalski C, P. O. Box 1 02 , Columbus, OH 4 21 02 , 14 220 11. This Paper Is A Notice of the Time and Place of the Sale of our Property. It has been issued because there is a udgment Against ou. t May Cause our Property to be Held, to be Sold Or Taken to Pay the udgment. ou may have legal rights to prevent your property from being taken away. A lawyer can advise you more specifically of those rights. If you wish to exercise your rights, ou Must Act Promptly. O SHO D A H S PAP R O O R AW R A ONC . GO TO OR TELEPHONE THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW TO F ND O WH R O CAN FREE LEGAL ADVICE: Allegheny County Bar Association 11th Floor oppers Building 4 Seventh Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15219 (412) 2 1
ALLEGHENY COUNTY SANITARY AUTHORITY LEGAL NOTICE CONTRACT NO. 1673 “Evaporator Tube Bundle Replacement Incinerator No. 2”
Beautiful B3 Hammond Organ and Leslie Speaker. Well kept. Reasonable price 412-331-5130
NOTICE OF ACTION IN MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE IN THE COURT OF COMMON P AS OF A H N CO N , P NNS AN A CIVIL ACTION – LAW NO.: D 1 022102 U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO WACHOVIA BAN , N.A. (FORM R NOWN AS FIRST UNION NATIONAL BANK), AS TRUSTEE FOR ACE S C R S HOM LOAN TRUST 2001-HE1 , Plaintiff, vs. Christine Hardy, as believed Heir and/or Administrator to the Estate of William C. Faust; William C. Faust, AKA William C. Faust, III, as believed Heir and/or Administrator to the Estate of William C. Faust; Renee Siegfried, as believed Heir and/or Administrator to the Estate of William C. Faust; Bonnie Faust, as believed Heir and/or Administrator to the Estate of William C. Faust; Unknown Heirs and/or Administrators of the Estate of William C. Faust, Defendants TO: Christine Hardy, as believed Heir and/or Administrator to the Estate of William C. Faust; Renee Siegfried, as believed Heir and/or Administrator to the Estate of William C. Faust; Bonnie Faust, as believed Heir and/or Administrator to the Estate of William C. Faust; Unknown Heirs and/or Administrators of the Estate of William C. Faust, Defendants ou are hereby notified that Plaintiff, U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, successor in interest to Wachovia Bank, N.A. (formerly known as First Union National Bank), as Trustee for ACE Securities Home quity oan rust 2001 H 1, filed an Action in Mortgage Foreclosure endorsed with a Notice to Defend, in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, docketed to No. D 1 022102, seeking to foreclose the mortgage secured by the real estate located at 930 Camp Street, McKeesport, PA 15132. A copy of the Action in Mortgage Foreclosure will be sent to you upon request to the Attorney for the Plaintiff, Manley Deas Kochalski LLC, P. O. Box 1 02 , Columbus, OH 4 21 02 . Phone 14 220 11. ou have been sued in court. f you wish to defend against the claims in this notice, you must take action within twenty (20) days after this publication, by entering a written appearance personally or by attorney and filing in writing with the court your defenses or objections to the claims set forth against you. ou are warned that if you fail to do so the case may proceed without you and a judgment may be entered against you by the court without further notice for any money claimed in the complaint or for any other claim or relief requested by the plaintiff. ou may lose money or property or other rights important to you. O SHO D A H S NO C O O R AW R A ONC . F O DO NO HA AW R OR CANNOT AFFORD ONE, GO TO OR TELEPHONE THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW TO FIND O WH R O CAN GAL HELP. AW R R F RRA S R C Allegheny County Bar Association 11th Floor oppers Building 4 Seventh Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 1 21 (412) 2 1 Allegheny County Bar Association 11th Floor oppers Building 4 Seventh Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15219 (412) 2 1
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PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT SPECIALIST— TRANSPORTATION PLANNING
Organized self-starter to lead public involvement activities in the regional transportation planning process. Experience in regional planning, public involvement/affairs, meeting/ group discussion facilitation. Valid PA driver’s license required. See detailed job description at www. spcregion.org. Email resume, cover letter, and salary requirements to hr@spcregion.org. EEO,AA,M/F/ Vet/Disability Employer
SENECA VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Anticipated full-time secondary teaching positions for the 201718 school year: Family Consumer Science, Library Science, English, and General Science. If you would like to be considered, please submit required information to: https:// senecavalley.cloud.talentedk12. com/hire/index.aspx. Applications accepted until March 7, 2017. Seneca Valley is committed to diversity in the workplace. E.O.E.
CHILD PREP THERAPIST I
Three Rivers Adoption Council is looking for a Child Prep Therapist I to provide in-home therapeutic support services to children and their families. The successful applicant will be comfortable managing a minimum caseload of 20 child preparation cases. Applicant must have an understanding of child welfare, childhood trauma, adoption and foster care process. Applicant MUST have a Master’s Degree, ACT 33/34 clearances, FB finger printing, access to an insured vehicle and a valid driver’s license.A minimum of 1-2 years providing counseling or casework services to families is preferred. The successful candidate must have a flexible schedule to include evenings. Please submit a letter of inquiry and resume to krschmidt@3riversadopt.org or mail to 307 Fourth Avenue, Suite 310, Pittsburgh PA 15222.
ASSISTANT TEACHING PROFESSOR OF CHEMISTRY
Position available at Carnegie Mellon University, Dept. of Chemistry in Pittsburgh, PA. Teach graduate & undergraduate students in Chemistry; Develop course materials for classes taught; Research, write & publish in the field of Chemistry Serve on faculty committees, Departmental & University; Advise grad. & undergrad. students as assigned; & Perform other academic duties as req’d. Reqs. Must have Ph.D. or foreign equiv. degree in Chemistry or related field, or be near completion of Ph.D. degree or foreign equiv. degree in Chemistry or related field. Please send resumes to: Ms. Brenda Chambers at brendac@andrew.cmu.edu. MERCHANDISE Musical Instruments
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OFFICIAL BID NOTICE TOWNSHIP OF UPPER ST. CLAIR
Estate of Sandra Lee Schneider, a/k/a Sandra Lee Stevens, deceased of Pittsburgh, PA January 5, 2017 No. 02 1700807. Personal Representative, August Schneider c/o Judith A. Lehnowsky, Atty., 820 Evergreen Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15209 412-821-0441
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Sealed and Separate Bids will be received by the Township of Upper St. Clair, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241 until 9:00 A.M. prevailing time on Tuesday, April 11, 2017 for: BRUSH RUN PUMP STATION AND FORCE MAIN UPGRADES Please refer to the Township’s website at www.twpusc.org for details and requirements. /s/ Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager
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THE BOARD OF PUBLIC EDUCATION OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PITTSBURGH
Sealed bids will be received in the Office Of he Chief Operations Officer, Room 251, Administration Building, 41 South Bellefield Avenue until 11:00 a.m. prevailing time, Tuesday, March 14, 2017 and will be opened at the same hour for the purchase of the following equipment and supplies: Printed Forms General Information regarding bids may be obtained at the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Service Center, 1305 Muriel Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15203. The bid documents are available on the School District’s Purchasing web site at: http://www. pghboe.net/pps/site/default.asp Click on Bid Opportunities under Quick Links. The Board of Public Education reserves the right to reject any and all bids, or select a single item from any bid. Leon Webb Purchasing Manager/ Purchasing Agent We are an equal rights and opportunity school district COURIER CLASSIFIEDS
Sealed Bids for CONTRACT NO. 1673, Evaporator Tube Bundle Replacement Incinerator No.2 shall be received at the office of the Allegheny County Sanitary Authority, 3300 Preble Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15233, until 2:00 p.m., Prevailing Time, Friday March 17, 2017 and then shall be publicly opened and read. A Pre-Bid Meeting will be held at the Authority’s Plant in the O&M Building, on Tuesday March 7, 2017 at 1:30 p.m., Prevailing Time. ALCOSAN encourages businesses owned and operated by minorities and women to submit bids on Authority Contracts or to participate as subcontractors or suppliers to successful Bidders. Successful Bidders are to use minority and women’s businesses to the fullest extent possible. Contract Documents may be examined and obtained at the office of the Authority. A non-refundable fee of $100 (no cash will be accepted) will be charged for each set of Contract Documents received. All written inquiries or checks must be mailed to the Engineering Department of ALCOSAN. Bid Security shall be furnished by providing with the Bid a Certified Check or Bid Bond in the amount of 10% of the Bid Price. Any questions regarding the Contract Documents should be directed to Timothy Turkowski, ALCOSAN, via email to Timothy. Turkowski@alcosan.org or via fax to (412) 7 4 71 . The Authority reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to waive any informality in any bid and to accept any bid should it be deemed in the interest of the Authority to do so. ALLEGHENY COUNTY SANITARY AUTHORITY David W Borneman, P.E. Director of Engineering and Construction
INVITATION FOR BIDS
The McKeesport Housing Authority (MHA) located at 2901 Brownlee Avenue, McKeesport, PA 15132 will be accepting sealed bids for the sale of its entire inventory of used Wascomat laundry equipment. The MHA will be accepting sealed bids until Monday, March 27, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. for the following items: •25-Crossover Front Load Washers •11-WE 17 Front Load Washers D 0 0 Stacked Front oad Electric Dryers 12 D 0 0 Stacked Front oad Gas Dryers All equipment includes ESD card readers installed. Equipment will be sold as a lot and buyer will be responsible for receiving the equipment from the MHA on dates, times and locations determined at bid award. Questions can be directed to Ken Filotei and interested parties may make arrangements to view the equipment by contacting Mr. Filotei at 412-780-7582 between the hours of 8:00am and 3:00pm Monday thru Friday. Bidders should enclose their bids in two (2) sealed envelopes; the outer envelope will be addressed to the McKeesport Housing Authority, 2901 Brownlee Avenue, 2nd Floor, McKeesport, PA 15132. Both envelopes shall be clearly marked, “Laundry Equipment Bid for the McKeesport Housing Authority”. Attention: Stephen L. Bucklew, Executive Director. Bids received will be opened publically and read aloud Monday, March 27, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. The McKeesport Housing Authority reserves the right to reject any and all bids.
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALSSINGLE AUDIT SERVICES
The Southwestern Pennsylvania Corporation, a nonprofit 01 c ( ) corporation, on behalf of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission, is soliciting proposals from public accounting firms for Single Audit Services. A copy of the Single Audit Services RFP is available for download at http://www.spcregion.org/ rfp_audit.shtml.
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MARCH 1-7, 2017
ANNOUNCEMENTS Public Notice
EMERGENCY SOLUTIONS GRANTS (ESG) PROGRAM NOTICE OF FUNDING AVAILABILITY
Allegheny County Economic Development (ACED) and the City of Pittsburgh Department of Planning would like to announce that applications are available for the 2017 Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) Program. Applications available to apply for funding are Emergency Shelter/Street Outreach and Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing. These applications can also be used for any ESG funding that ACED and/or the City of Pittsburgh may apply for through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and/or the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (PA-DCED). Funds are awarded to both jurisdictions from HUD and/or PA-DCED. The Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) program provides funding to: (1) engage homeless individuals and families living on the streets; (2) improve the number and quantity of emergency shelters for homeless individuals and families; (3) help operate these shelters; (4) provide essential services to shelter residents; (5) rapidly re-house homeless individuals and families; and (6) prevent families and individuals from becoming homeless. Agencies awarded funds are required to participate in the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) except for domestic violence shelters, they must use a comparable database to HMIS. Below are the ESG eligible components. 1) Street Outreach funds may be used for essential services related to reaching out to unsheltered homeless individuals and families connecting them with emergency shelter, housing, or critical services, and providing them with urgent, non-facility based care. Eligible costs include engagement, case management, emergency health and mental health services, and transportation 2) Emergency Shelter funds may be used for providing essential services, including services to special populations, to homeless families and individuals in emergency shelters, operating expenses and renovating emergency shelters. Because these costs are focused on emergency shelter, a transitional facility will only be eligible to receive Emergency Solutions Grants funds for these costs if: It meets BOTH of the following criteria under the new emergency shelter definition: a) Its primary purpose is to provide a temporary shelter for the homeless in general or for specific populations of the homeless; and b) It does not require occupants to sign leases or occupancy agreements OR It received funds under a FY2010 ESG grant and met the criteria under the former emergency shelter definition (“any facility, the primary purpose of which is to provide temporary or transitional shelter for the homeless in general or for specific populations of the homeless.”) 3) Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing funds may be used for rental assistance, housing relocation and stabilization services, housing quality inspection services, rent reasonableness analysis and centralized intake through Allegheny County Department of Human Services Allegheny Link. 4) Data Collection (HMIS)—Allegheny County Department of Human Services will provide the data collection and evaluation services. To receive an application, contact Elizabeth Daniels-Totten, City of Pittsburgh Planning Department at (412)255-0740 or by e-mail at eliz abeth.daniels-totten@pittsburgh pa.gov or Tammy Pifer, Allegheny County Economic Development at (412) 350-1197 or by e-mail at tammy. pifer@alleghenycounty.us. Applications may also be downloaded from the following website: http:// www.pittsburghpa.gov/dcp/ESG. If interested in applying for funding, please submit original application, along with one (1) copy of the agency audit or financial statement plus six (6) complete copies excluding the audit or financial statement. Applications should be submitted to Elizabeth Daniels-Totten, Department of City Planning, City of Pittsburgh, 200 Ross Street, 4th floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. If delivering application in person, drop-off at the Community Development offices on the 2nd Floor of 200 Ross St. Applications are due on Tuesday, April 4, 2017 at 3:00 p.m.
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INVITATION TO BIDDERS/ OFFERORS THE PITTSBURGH WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY ADVERTISEMENT
PORT AUTHORITY OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY
PORT AUTHORITY OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY ADVERTISEMENT
Separate sealed Bids for the Work as listed hereinafter will be received at the Purchasing and Materials Management Department of Port Authority of Allegheny County (Authority) Heinz 57 Center, 345 Sixth Avenue, Third Floor, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15222-2527 until 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 29, 2017 and will be publicly opened and read immediately thereafter at the same address. . Each Bidder shall be solely responsible for assuring that its Bid is both received and time stamped by a representative of the Purchasing and Materials Management Department at or before the advertised time for submission of Bids. Bids received or time stamped in the Purchasing and Materials Management Department after the advertised time for the submission of Bids shall be non-responsive and therefore ineligible for Award. BRILLIANT VIADUCT REHABILITATION CONTRACT NO. EB-17-01 The Work of this Project includes, but is not limited to, the furnishing of all labor, materials, tools, equipment, and incidental items necessary for the rehabilitation of the Brilliant Viaduct. Work items generally consist of expansion joint replacement, bearing refurbishment, spot and zone painting, concrete deck and barrier repairs, substructure repairs, downspout replacement, and a new epoxy based surface treatment on the concrete deck. The Work will also include asphalt pavement repairs, crack repairs, and concrete curb, sidewalk, and barrier repairs as-directed along the East Busway corridor. Bid Documents will be available for public inspection and may be obtained on or after Monday, February 27, 2017 at Authority’s offices at the following address: Port Authority of Allegheny County Purchasing and Materials Management Department Heinz 57 Center 345 Sixth Avenue, Third Floor Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222-2527 Bid Documents are available for purchase as follows: Bid Documents are available in an electronic form on compact disk upon payment of $15.00 per CD. Payment shall be by check or money order (NO CASH), payable to “Port Authority of Allegheny County.” No refunds of payment will be made. Upon request, Bid Documents can be mailed upon receipt of payment in full. Should the purchaser wish to have the Bid Documents delivered via special delivery, such as UPS or Federal Express, the purchaser shall provide its appropriate account numbers for such special delivery methods. This Project may be funded, in part, by, and subject to certain requirements of, the County of Allegheny and/or the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Authority, in compliance with 74 Pa.C.S. § 303, as may be amended, require that certified Diverse Businesses (“DBs”) have the maximum opportunity to participate in the performance of contracts and subcontracts for this Project. In this regard, all Bidders shall make good faith efforts in accordance with 74 Pa.C.S. § 303, to ensure that DBs have the maximum opportunity to compete for and perform contracts. Bidders shall also not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, age, disability, national origin, sexual origin, gender identity or status as a parent in the award and performance of contracts for this Project. If aid is required to involve DBs in the Work, Bidders are to contact Authority’s Director of Employee Relations and OEO at (412) 566-5262. The Bidder’s attention is directed to the following contacts for Bidder’s questions: Procedural Questions Regarding Bidding: Cindy Denner - Authority (412) 566-5117 cdenner@portauthority.org All other questions relating to the Bid Documents must be submitted by mail or email to: Port Authority of Allegheny County Heinz 57 Center 345 Sixth Avenue, Third Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 Attn: Cindy Denner cdenner@portauthority.org In addition, the Bidder’s attention is directed to the following schedule of activities for preparation of its Bid: 9:00 a.m. March 9, 2017
Pre-Bid Conference Port Authority of Allegheny County Heinz 57 Center 5th Floor Board Room 345 Sixth Avenue, Third Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 (Attendance is not mandatory, but strongly recommended) Pre-Bid Site Tour [immediately following the Pre-Bid Conference]. Participants must provide and wear a safety vest and proper footwear. (Transportation will be provided)
1:30 p.m. Bids Due March 29, 2017 Purchasing and Materials Management Department Authority reserves the right to reject any or all Bids
SEPARATE and SEALED PROPOSALS for the following solicitation, will be received by the Office of Procurement, Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority, 1200 Penn Avenue, Second Floor, until 4:00 P.M. Prevailing Time, March 20, 2017. Proposals must be received in the hands of and clocked in by a PWSA Procurement Officer in sufficient time prior to the opening in order for a bid to be considered. All late and/or electronically submitted Proposals will be rejected and not considered for award. REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) FOR AN AUDIT OF PWSA’S VOLUNTARY CUSTOMER WATER SAMPLE COLLECTION AND LEAD TESTING PROTOCOL PWSA PROJECT NO. PWSA79 The scope of work requires the Consultant to evaluate the PWSA’s process for collecting, testing reporting and responding to results of water samples submitted voluntarily by PWSA customers. All proposals must be submitted in accordance with the solicitation that can be obtained by sending an e-mail to jtracey@pgh2o. com. There will be no charge for the solicitation, as it will be sent via e-mail. All questions relating to the solicitation itself shall be directed to Autumn Barna, Contract Specialist, via e-mail: abarna@pgh2o.com no later than March 13, 2017. The Consultant must assure that employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual preference, or national origin. The Consultant will be required to submit the package of certifications included with the contract documents relating to Equal Employment Opportunity. The Authority reserves the right to withhold the award of the Contract for a period of 60 days after the proposal due date. The Authority reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, and to waive any informality or minor irregularity in any proposal(s). The Authority also retains the right to investigate the qualifications of Offerors prior to any award and to award contracts only to Consultants who, in the sole judgment of the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority, are qualified and equipped to properly execute the specified work. BERNARD R. LINDSTROM, INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR THE PITTSBURGH WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY
Electronic Proposals will be received online at the Port Authority of Allegheny County’s Ebusiness website (http://ebusiness.port authority.org). Proposals/bid submittals will be due at 11:00 AM on March 21, 2017 and will be read at 11:15 AM., that same day at Port Authority’s Heinz location (345 Sixth Avenue, Third Floor, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222-2527), for the following: Electronic Proposal - Ebusiness website (http://ebusiness.port authority.org) B160547R LRV Forward Facing Cameras and Network Video Recorders B170102 Sewer Cleaning Truck B170107A HVAC On-Call Service B170109 Route Foreman Trucks No bidder may withdraw a submitted Proposal for a period of 75 days after the scheduled time for opening of the sealed bids. A Pre-Bid Conference will be held on each of the above items at 10:00am on March 8, 2017 at Port Authority’s Heinz location (345 Sixth Avenue, Third Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527). Attendance at this meeting is not mandatory, but is strongly encouraged. Questions regarding any of the above bids will not be entertained by the Port Authority within 48 hours of the scheduled bid opening. These contracts may be subject to a financial assistance contract between Port Authority of Allegheny County and the United States Department of Transportation. The Contractor will be required to comply with all applicable Equal Employment Opportunity laws and regulations. Contractor is responsible for expenses related to acquiring a performance bond and insurance where applicable. All items are to be FOB delivered unless otherwise specified. Costs for delivery, bond, and insurance shall be included in bidder’s proposal pricing. Port Authority of Allegheny County hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively insure that in regard to any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, disadvantaged business enterprise will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, or national origin in consideration for an award. The Board of Port Authority reserves the right to reject any or all bids.
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MARCH 1-7, 2017
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Inside Conditions…In the ‘Cutch’
by Aubrey Bruce For New Pittsburgh Courier
The Pittsburgh Pirates have found a new right fielder, not via a trade or free agency or off of the waiver wire. The Pirates have looked within their system and Pittsburgh as of now has moved their AllStar center fielder Andrew McCutchen into right field. According to a report earlier this month by AP and usatoday.com: “Andrew McCutchen is on the move, just not out of Pittsburgh. Pirates manager Clint Hurdle announced Sunday that McCutchen is moving from center field to right field this season. Gregory Polanco will
flip from right field to left, with Starling Marte sliding over from left to center. McCutchen, a five-time AllStar and the 2013 National League MVP, won a Gold Glove in center in 2012 but has seen a dip in his defensive performance recently, according to advanced metrics. Pittsburgh.” McCutchen being moved from centerfield to rightfield should not be a big surprise based on his 2016 performance in comparison to the All-Star performance in all phases of the game that former left fielder now current center fielder Starling Marte had. I am surprised that Andrew McCutchen remains a Pittsburgh Pirate. I truly believe that if Neil
Huntington and Clint Hurdle were not the loyalists and pragmatists that they are Andrew McCutchen would almost certainly not be wearing the black and yellow and patrolling the outfield of PNC Park in 2017. The Pirates may have been shopping “Cutch” around a bit, but they seemed not to have a big “For Sale” sign hanging around the neck of the one player that was a crucial component in helping turn a horrible franchise back into a respectful competitor. McCutchen could have demanded to be traded years ago when he was suffering through 2 or even 3 miserable seasons but he didn’t. Initially Mc-
Cutchen was not thrilled to be vacating a position that he has excelled at for the last 12 seasons. According to an article by ESPN Senior Writer Jayson Stark posted on espn.com, McCutchen was quoted as saying: “That was one of the first times that that was something I wanted to go against,” McCutchen said, on the day he attempted to put his tumultuous, traderumor-filled offseason behind him. “It wasn’t something I was ready for or I wanted to do. But as I keep saying that, I’m talking about myself. So I just had to not be as selfish and just accept that that’s what I had to do and move over
to right. I’ve always been in center,” he said. “Since I came up, since my first game here, that’s where I’ve always played.” Regardless of whether the skillset of Andrew McCutchen may have arguably slightly diminished or not, he was the glue that held the Pittsburgh Pirates outfield intact while the Pirates young stars, Starling Marte and Gregory Polanco were learning to compete and excel at the major league level. Marte and Polanco did not exit the “womb” of AAA baseball, ready for primetime. Andrew McCutchen set and continues to maintain a great example of how a professional
athlete is supposed to conduct himself on or off the field. When pitchers were trying to maim and possibly end his career oftentimes after he was intentionally hit, except for an occasional “stop and glare” he would generally just make his way down to first base, that is if he was not forced to leave the game. Andrew McCutchen is more than just a player, he is a leader and stabilizer for the Pittsburgh Pirates. They might be cuddling up with “folly” if they equate his worth with just raw numbers. They should not overlook his intangibles. (The sources for this article were AP, USA Today and espn.com)
WPIAL tournament playoff action
KENNY ROBINSON of Imani Christian scored 27 points in the Saints 92-57 win over Cornell in the SAM FAIRLEY Sam of Imani Christian scored 19 points in the Saints 92-57 win over Cornell. WPIAL Playoffs.
ALEXA WILLIAMSON of Chartiers-Houston’s 6’1” junior scored 20 points in the 60-44 win over JALA WALKER (23) of Chartiers-Houston drives on Mikayla Lovelace of Leechburg, Walker scored 23 Leechburg. (Photos by William McBride) points to lead Chartiers-Houston to a 60-44 win in WPIAL playoff action.
by Bill Neal For New Pittsburgh Courier
:10—Let’s get to the real important stuff right off the bat. No, not the Steelers. No, not the Pens, not Pitt or Duquesne…Lord no not the Pirates, not yet anyway. Let’s roll the dice baby! If you missed the high school game of the year last week, you missed a goodie. A triple overtime crowd was treated to all guts and glory. The 71-70 final score only told half the story. The crowd, the energy, the intensity of the players. Fan – Tas – Tic! The second half leadership and scoring of Jahi Ogbonna was off the chart. (Not to mention something that went unnoticed by most…his between the legs lay up to end the game…Bam!) And the supporting cast came to play. Ice cold Tyler Williams 11 out of 12 at the line down the stretch complimented by his ball skills and ankle break moves, Jackson Blaufeld and Bobby Clifford not only gave you knife in the throat jumpers, but great hustle, rebounds and “Let’s Go!” The steady play of Lamar Todd and the inside presence of Shaun Morris gives this team every bit of a change to go the distance. Witness the back alley whoppin they put on Erie McDowell last week by 15 and it tells you to get ready to roll sevens with the dice! (Next game set to play Friday
Overtime
at Obama.) :09—Speaking of important things, here’s something you may not know. Michaela Porter, daughter of Perry High School and Pitt great Darryl Porter, has been a part of and helped lead her Obama team to the City League title four consecutive years. Hoo-Ray! :08—Announcing the 2017 induction class for the nationally recognized Connie Hawkins Summer Basketball League Hall of Fame: Hosea Champagne–Rankin Gangsters, Kevin Price–Rankin Gangster, Dave Burris–Big’s Storm, Eric Carter–Homewood Horses, Joe Barlow–The Dons, Jimmy Nichols–Heatwave, Brian Carroll–Future Stars, Mark Hassel– Fire/Cosmic Echoes, Cory Gadson–Clariton’s Finest, Vince Lackner–Lawyers Assoc. Gary Nelson–The Dons, Shawn Harvey–Heatwave, PosthumouslyDarryll Gissendanner, Leroy Freeman, John “Shanghi” Matthews Inductions–Armon Gilliam. Featuring this year, for the first time ever, Hall of Fame Inductions of members of the Pittsburgh Urban Officials Chapter. :07—Oh yeah, here at the Pitt game. After an early tight first half, Pitt was giving the Tar Heels some work, but the star of Carolina, Justin Jackson, went to work. At 15 to
90 in the second half, the Panthers got the memo that a little “D” can go a long way. Down 10 to a very long and talented team, I’m still calling for the upset. Stay tuned. :06—But just for the record so you don’t think I’m crazy, N.C. is substituting a 7 footer for a 7 footer. I’m just sayin’!!! :05—By the way, lest you’ve been sleeping under a rock the past two weeks, you know pitchers and catchers reported. Your Pittsburgh Pirates are set for the annual 3rd or 4th place run in the division. Go Bucs! :04—Speaking of the Connie Hawkins League, and I was a few minutes ago if you were paying attention, let’s go back, all the way back, back to East Hills when it was all the way live. About 1,000 people a night came to see these names on any given night. “The Hawk,” Kenny Durrett, Hosea Champagne, Larry Harris, Ron Carter, Clyde Vaughn, Leroy Freeman, Craig Prossor, Gary Nelson, John Marshall, Armon Gilliam, Norm Nixon, Kirk Bruce, Sam Clancy, Clarence Hopson just to name a few and a few more I’m probably forgetting. By the way, did I mention that everybody I mentioned here played professionally? That’s right. If you’re reading this and you’re too young to have been there, too bad. And if you’re old school and wasn’t there…
what the hell were you thinking! That’s right. We had it like that. Not to mention all the other legendary players. Ricky Coleman, Jeep Kelly, Bobby Byrd, Mike Williams, Eric Carter, Jeff Baldwin, Rich Cotten, “Dr. Hook,” “Dr. Death,” Kevin Walk, Melvin Paul, Mike Goosby, “Junkhead,” Bobby Franklin…somebody stop me please! Yeah, it was like that…And – do – get – me – started – about – the – women!!! (Somebody text me if you know what I’m talkin’ about. 412-628-4856. :03—Looking for a job? No, I mean something legal. Not that stuff you been doing. Call Achieving Greatness Inc. if you can sell a rope to a drowning man. Money right now. 412-628-4856. (Also, still looking for writers to tell their story in “Champions Quarterly.” Next issue out March 20.) :02—The 16th Annual Pittsburgh/Allegheny County Public Service Awards are upcoming Friday, March 31 at the historic Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall in Oakland, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Recognizing and honoring our local heroes, those who protect and serve. If you know of anyone worthy of recognition, please submit their name and number to Achieving Greatness Inc. at 412-628-4856. :01—About that Pitt upset forget about it. ~ GAME OVER ~
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MARCH 1-7, 2017
PEOPLE
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
RECEIVING HER DOCTORATE—Amirah Shante Beeks being robed by professor Scott Graves, PhD, as she receives her doctorate in school psychology from Duquesne University. FAMILY SUPPORT—Aaron Felder, center, holding Aariyon Felder with his family, from left: Tmnyaneka Azeem, Emirajae Morris and Brittany Pennywell Felder after receiving his master’s degree in education administration from Duquesne University. (Photos by J. L. Martello)
Felder, Beeks: Two unique Duquesne grads by J.L. Martello For New Pittsburgh Courier
Duquesne University graduated hundreds of students at their last graduation, with several African Americans graduating with Bachelors of Science, master’s and doctoral degrees. Two, of which, spoke to the New Pittsburgh Courier. One took 34 years off from school to help take care of and raise a family before going back for his master’s, and the other, who is an educator, received her doctoral degree. Both graduates earned degrees in education and said it was due to wanting to help make a difference in the way African American kids are being educated. Aaron Lee Felder, a staffing specialist for Allegheny County, earned his bachelors degree from the University of Louisiana in 1982 and, 34 years later, graduated with a master’s degree in education administration, K-12, from Duquesne University. After getting his bachelor’s degree, Felder worked in the school system, followed by several corporate jobs, until he was laid off. He decided to go back to school, he said, because “I had educational experience; I wanted to further my education and get my master’s degree to become a principal.” He said he will take the principal’s test within the next few months and work on his doctoral degree, in a year or so. “I want to be a principal in my neighborhood, but I will go wherever the opportunity takes me,” he said. “I feel I can be an inspiration, and have an impact in and on whatever community and students that I deal with. “I want to let my peo-
ple know that if you can pursue what you want to pursue, then pursue it. If you have an aspiration to achieve your goals, you can do it. Just don’t give up on your goals, on life and what you want to do. Education is a lifetime journey.” Amirah Shante Beeks, a 2012 graduate from Howard University with a bachelor’s degree and who earned her master’s in Education from Duquesne University in 2013, recently graduated with her doctoral degree in School Psychology. A school psychologist at a middle school in the Baltimore County Public Schools, in Baltimore, Md., Beeks said, “I’ve always loved working with children and always wanted to be able to help those students who were struggling in school.” Thinking back to her high school days, she said, “When I was in high school teachers would talk negatively about kids and tell (them) they weren’t going to be anything or make anything of themselves. When I was in school, I was always the honor student, but that would always bother me. What teacher would say to other student?” She said she always wanted to give encouragement and say, “You can do it.” As an educator, Beeks said she wants to address the issue of over representation of African American students in special education. “I want to make sure when (teachers) are getting their assessments and stuff done for the IUP class, instead of it being double fidelity, they are making sure that students are getting services they need and are being represented in a better way or light.”
RECEIVING HIS MASTERS—Aaron Lee Felder receiving his degree in education administration, K-12.