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JULY 13-19, 2016
Black Lives Matter march peaceful
41 of 54 homicides Black lives
Home invasions cause three of 10 murders by Ulish Carter and Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
Of the 10 murders in June six were Blacks males, one Black female, and three White males. The three White men, ages 83, 73 and 27 were killed during home invasions, two by Black males in their mid 20s and the other by White males. Two murders were domes-
Leaders call for peace summit after protest
HOLDING ON—Both Black Lives Matter activists and police maintain calm as protesters take to the streets just after the city’s bicentennial. (Photos by J.L. Martello)
by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
In the wake of the police involved fatal shootings in Louisiana and Minnesota, and the killing of five police officers in Texas, a spontaneous Black Lives Matter march that brought more than 1,000 to Pittsburgh’s streets following its bicentennial festivities. It could have turned confrontational in an instant, but it didn’t. Pittsburgh police Chief Cameron McLay credited his staff’s communication
with the group and its professionalism for keeping things calm during the July 9 march, especially when participants indicated they wanted to go shut down traffic the Parkway East—similar to what protesters in Altanta, Ga. had done the day before. “People could be killed down
there,” McLay said, adding that there would have been arrests had the marchers tried to cross barricades police had set up on Parkway ramps. But Cooler heads prevailed, and the marchers turned back toward Point State Park where they had started more than an hour earlier—
marching up Liberty Avenue, in the opposite direction from the earlier bicentennial parade. They stopped outside the Port Authority of Allegheny County offices, and recalled District Attorney Stephen Zappala’s decision not to bring charges against the authority police officers who fatally shot Bruce Kelley Jr. in January. “We have to remember it’s not just the police—but the people who are supposed to prosecute crimes,” shouted one protester. “Stephen Zappala has been here for 18 years while Black lives have been destroyed. We should make sure he SEE PEACE A5
Church moves worshipers from lament to hope by Renee P. Aldrich For New Pittsburgh Courier
In an attempt to minister to the hearts, minds and spirits of all surrounding the tragic events that occurred in the country during the past two weeks; “Prayer Sunday” was the intercessory effort extended by the Hill District Church
to it’s troubled members. During all three of its Sunday morning worship encounters last weekend— 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and 12:15 p.m.—The leadership of Pittsburgh’s Macedonia Church in the Hill District elected to transform the usual traditional service into an hour of singing, prayer, thanksgiving and
petitioning to God for his divine intervention. Pastor Brian Edmonds, Senior Pastor of Macedonia explained, “These changes in the worship encounters were intended to give parishioners a chance to express their emotions, grieve for our nation, and see light in darkness.” Each service included spe-
cific prayers; for our nation by Minister Myrna Snowden, Deacon Derrick Tillman, and Sister Carmen Brown, for police and community relations; Rev. Lori Tyson, Rev. Lee Walls, and prayer for hope and healing; and Rev. Dionne Edmonds. And there were SEE WORSHIPERS A4
PASTOR BRIAN EDMONDS
Still We Rise march protests racial injustice by Christian Morrow
Pittsburgh police. Despite one banner that said “Fire Killer Cops,” Chief Cameron McLay said the marchers were not agitating, and remained focused on their cause. Though planned weeks ago to, in part, address concerns escalating distrust between police and minority groups nationwide, with the shootings this week of Louisiana resident Alton Sterling and Minnesota resident Philando Castile—both African Americans killed at the hands of police, followed by five Dallas police officers being killed by a Black sniper, the march could have turned chaotic. At the Allegheny County Courthouse, protesters yelled, “Indict, convict, send those killer cops to jail. The whole damn system is guilty as hell.” Still, there was no hostility toward the police.
Courier Staff Writer
Ninety-degree heat did not deter those joining in the People’s Convention from calling for economic, social and racial justice in the “Still We Rise” march that took two hours to wind its way from the David L. Lawrence Convention Center to Station Square. Along the way, more than 1,500 marchers carried signs and shouted their displeasure with UPMC, the University of Pittsburgh, the Federal Reserve Bank, the U.S. Department of Justice and Sen. Pat Toomey, who said he stayed away from his Station Square office because “It was not a good place to be.” The event brought activist groups from across the Northeast to the city, and throughout the march, they were escorted by
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MARCHING FOR JUSTICE—One of more than 1,500 activists carries the ‘Still We Rise’ message. (Photos by J.L. Martello)
tic in which a daughter killed her mother and the other an 8 yearold Black male was killed by his mother’s boyfriend. The rest of the victims were found with multiple gun shot wounds. Ten homicides are high for Pittsburgh, but at least only half were due to street violence. However, it does indicate that we all must take precautions of home invasions, which go up during the summer months. Make sure all first floor doors and windows are locked, and watch friends your kids bring home or strangers around your SEE HOMICIDES A4
PAT Board vote ushers in fare change by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
Bishop David Zubik even led a special mass in Oakland to pray for peace following the week’s events, saying it is “imperative to tear down our own prejudices.” “Yesterday was Dallas, Wednesday was Baton Rouge, Tuesday was St. Paul. And Monday, July 4th our own Wood Street. Violence continues,” Zubik said during the sermon. Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto and Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald released a joint press statement regarding the violence in Louisiana, Minnesota and Texas. “Today, our nation is in mourning for the deaths of so many in our community. We are hurt, angry, confused and in pain as we struggle to cope with the violence plaguing us,” it read. “Our answer
After two years of surveys, public hearings and community meetings, the Port Authority of Allegheny County finally approved major changes to its fare policies that it projects will initially cost it more than $7.5 million. The board approved the changes at its last meeting of the fiscal year in June—the biggest being the elimination of the zone 2 fare of $3.75, making all rides. $2.50 for ConnectCcard users and $2.75 for cash customers— and making all riders pay on entry. Transfers will be $1 for card users and $1.25 for cash customers Authority CEO Ellen McLean said the authority believes the changes will draw more customers to use PAT, and make up for the loss in fare revenue. “This is an investment in our
SEE STILL A5
SEE PAT A4
Ulish Carter says
Two more Black men executed Opinion A6
Violence in America: This Week In Black History A view from the outside A2
JULY 13-19, 2016
INTERNATIONAL
by Nigel Roberts NewsOne
How are commentators viewing the recent police shooting of Black men and the gunning down of police officers in Dallas? For many, it’s just further evidence that America is a violent nation with politicians who lack the courage to enact common sense gun control laws. There’s also a sense that unconscious racism among White police officers is a powerful force that will continue to result in blood shed. It’s that kind of concern that led the government of the Bahamas to warn its young men traveling in the United States to be cautious when they encounter the police. But how is the rest of the world responding? GERMANY-US-POLICESHOOTING Ines Pohl of Deutsche Welle News: Pohl said it has become “a sad reality” that videos of police killing AfricanAmericans are now “so commonplace.” Consequently, a routine has developed, in which the news of a shooting surfaces, protests and arrests follow, officials express condolences and life continues as though nothing happened—until the next police shooting. In addition to underlying racism, Pohl said the police don’t hesitate to reach for their guns, out of fear that the Black men they encounter are also carrying weapons and ready to use them. “Officers do not learn how to deal with extreme situations appropriately, and thus situations arise in which they act more like executioners than professional enforcers of the law.” BRITAIN-US-POLICESHOOTING-PROTEST Piers Morgan of the Daily Mail: Morgan said he’s “sickened by the appalling execution” of Alton Sterling, Philando Castile and the Dallas police officers—and is also sickened by “the endless tide of gun violence destroying so many lives in America.” The former CNN host stated that Sterling and
Elaine Effort
CANADA PROTEST—Members of Black Lives Matter stage a protest during a Toronto Police Services Board monthly meeting at Toronto Police Headquarters in 2015. (Photo: Vince Talotta, Toronto Star via Getty Images) Castile would likely still be alive if they were White. He said unconscious racism is partly to blame. “There is still an undeniable endemic racism strewn through America’s police force which shows no sign of abating. Too many cops see a young Black man and automatically think: ‘criminal.’” Morgan blames “spineless” lawmakers for not having the courage to take action. He placed President Barack Obama among America’s ineffective politicians, with regard to gun control. Gary Younge of the Guardian: Younge called the killing of Dallas police officers a “vile” and deplorable act. It cannot be given a free pass, but “should be unequivocally condemned.” It “sabotages” the antiracism movement. “This horrific incident must be both mourned and understood for what it is. But it should not be allowed to distract us from the 566 people who have been shot dead by police so far this year—a disproportionate number of them Black and Native American.” IRELAND Larry Donnelly of TheJournal.ie: Americans must discuss racism in a more “considered” way, said Donnelly. He highlighted this angry Twitter response by former Tea Party Con-
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gressman Joe Walsh to the Dallas shooting: “This is now war. Watch out Obama. Watch out Black lives matter punks. Real America is coming after you.” Slate said Walsh deleted that post (which seemed to many as a threat) quickly and gave this explanation, via Twitter: “I wasn’t calling for violence, against Obama or anyone. Obama’s words & BLM’s deeds have gotten cops killed. Time for us to defend our cops.” Donnelly said there’s a clear divide between Black and White Americans. It doesn’t help when Walsh (and others) send messages to the “silent majority,” as he does here: That term, “silent majority,” is “code” for White Americans, said Donnelly. “When Walsh employed it, he was appealing to them and to their worst fears and instincts,” he stated. Black Lives Matter rally at Toronto Police Headquarters CANADA Elizabeth Renzetti of the Globe and Mail: It’s lamentable that Americans have become numb to videos showing police shootings of Black men, said Renzetti. “These videos could, in the best possible world, open Americans’ eyes to the cancer of race hatred and gun violence in their midst. In the best possible world, viewers might look at a 4-year-old girl in a red T-shirt in the back of a car where a Black man lies bleeding to death from gun wounds and think: This has got to stop.” Perhaps worse, she said, is using images of a “murdered” school cafeteria worker (Castile) or Dallas police officers as propaganda in a national debate about racism. (SOURCE: Deutsche Welle News, Daily Mail, Guardian, TheJournal.ie, Slate, Globe and Mail)
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Week of July 13-19 July 13 1863—One of the bloodiest race (or perhaps more appropriately “racist”) riots in America history begins. The event, known historically as New York City Draft Riots, was sparked by angry opposition to the congressionally passed Enrollment Act—a mandatory draft requiring White men to fight in the Civil War. Many Whites went on a rampage out of opposition to the draft and fear of freed Blacks competing with them for jobs. The rioting lasted from July 13 to July 16 before it was finally put down with NEW YORK CITY DRAFT RIOTS the aid of Federal troops. But before it was over, an estimated 100 people had been killed and 300 wounded—most of them Blacks. The mandatory draft also reflected a fact commonly omitted from standard American history texts: the class nature of much legislation. In this instance, the draft only applied to poor and working class Whites. Wealthy Whites were officially exempted from the draft by paying a fee. 1868—Oscar J. Dunn, a former slave, is installed as Louisiana’s lieutenant governor. At the time, it was the highest elective state position ever achieved by any African-American. Another Black, Antoine Dubuclet, was installed as state treasurer. However, virtually all the Black political gains after the Civil War would be wiped out by the HayesTilden Compromise of 1872 and the subsequent anti-Black Jim Crow laws. It would take nearly 100 years (during the 1960s) before Blacks would once again begin to match the political gains they had made during the post-Civil War period. July 15 1779—Noted Black spy Pompey Lamb supplies the American revolutionary forces with information, which enables them to win the Battle of Stony Point—the last major battle of the Revolutionary War in New York State. Lamb had worked as a fruit and vegetable delivery man for the British Army. 1822—Philadelphia becomes one of the first major cities to open its public schools to Blacks. The first school was a segregated one just for Black boys. One for girls was opened four years later in 1826. The city’s public schools would remain segregated until the 1930s. July 16 1862—Crusading journalist and anti-lynching activist Ida B. Wells-Barnett is born in Holly Springs, Miss. Wells-Barnett was a true militant activist. Her editorials so angered Whites in the Memphis, Tenn., area that a mob burned down the building which housed her newspaper. She was also one of the original founders of the NAACP and in 1884 she committed a “Rosa Parks” type act when she refused an order to give up her seat on a train to a White man. It took the conductor and two other men to remove her from the seat and throw her off the train. 1882—Violette A. Johnson is born. She would become the first Black female attorney allowed to practice before the United States Supreme Court. July 17 1794—Former slave and Min. Richard Allen officially dedicated the Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Philadelphia, Pa. The church was the first all-Black denomination not affiliated with a larger White congregation. The incident leading to the dedication took place in 1787 when Allen, Absalom Jones and several other Blacks were thrown out of Philadelphia’s St. George’s Methodist Episcopal Church when they attempted to pray along-side Whites. The AME Church would go on to become one of the largest Black religious denominations in America. 1862—As the Southern, pro-slavery rebels prove more difficult in battle than expected, Congress passes a law giving President Abraham Lincoln the authority to begin recruiting free Blacks and recently freed slaves into military service during the Civil War. 1911—Frank M. Snowden is born in York County, Va. The Harvard educated Snowden would become a prominent professor at Washington, D.C.’s, Howard University and a leading authority on Blacks in ancient history. His major works include “Blacks in Antiquity: Ethiopians in the Greco-Roman Experience” and “Before Color Prejudice: The Ancient View of Blacks.” Snowden documented that “Ethiopians pioneered religion” and played a major role in the development of the greatness of ancient Egypt. Snowden also showed that Blacks influenced the development of both ancient Greek and Roman societies working in capacities ranging from musicians to scholars. Snowden died in February 2007 at the age of 95. 1942—Heavyweight boxing champion Muhammad Ali is born Cassius Marcellus Clay in Louisville, Ky. Ali would join the Nation of Islam and become a major opponent of the U.S. war in Vietnam. He would later split with Malcolm X when Malcolm broke away from the Nation of Islam. 1944—The so-called Port of Chicago Mutiny takes place. In the middle of America’s involvement in World War II, an ammunitions depot at Port Chicago, Calif., explodes killing 320 men—most of them Black. It was the worse stateside disaster in U.S. military history. However, when 258 surviving Black soldiers refused to return to work until they received certain safety guarantees, their refusal was labeled a mutiny by military authorities. Fifty of the soldiers were convicted of mutiny and jailed. However, after the war, President Harry S. Truman commuted their sentences. July 18 1753—This is believed to be the day Lemuel Haynes esMUHAMMAD ALI caped from slavery in Massachusetts. The product of a Black father and a mother who was normally described in history texts as “a White woman of respectable ancestry,” Haynes would become a renowned figure in early American history. He fought with distinction in American Revolutionary War for independence from Britain and would become the first Black person ordained as a minister by a mainstream Protestant church. He was also the first Black in American history to become head minister at a predominantly White church. 1863—Sergeant William H. Carney was the first Black person to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor for bravery in battle. The bravery which led to the medal occurred on this day in 1863 at the battle of Battery Wagner. 1918—Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela is born in Transkei, South Africa. Mandela would spend 27 years in prison for his struggles against the system of racial oppression in South Africa known as apartheid. When he was finally released in 1990, it was a day of massive celebration for Blacks and progressive Whites throughout South Africa and much of the world. He won hundreds of awards for his anti-apartheid efforts including the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993. With the downfall of apartheid in the early 1990s, Mandela would become the first Black president of the country in 1994. He was widely praised for not launching a campaign of revenge against his White former oppressors. July 19 1848—Anti-slavery activist and the foremost Black leader of his day Frederick Douglass gives a stirring speech at the First Women’s Rights Convention, which took place in Seneca Falls, N.Y. Douglas helped sway the 260 women and 40 men present to back a women’s right to vote resolution being pushed by Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Initially, many of the delegates opposed the resolution fearing it was too radical an idea for the times, but changed their minds after hearing Douglass’ presentation. Women would not finally get the right to vote until 1920. 1941—The first U.S. Army Flying Academy for Black cadets is officially dedicated at Tuskegee, Ala. Between 1940 and 1946, 992 pilots were trained. Over 400 would see action in World War II even though many Whites initially felt Blacks were not intelligent enough to fly airplanes. The Tuskegee Airmen, as they became known, would fly with great distinction during the war. They were credited with downing 109 German planes and destroying numerous enemy fuel dumps, trucks and planes. Approximately 150 of them lost their lives during training or combat. Finally, in March 2007, over 300 surviving members and their wives were honored and the airmen received the Congressional Gold Medal. 1952—Joe Louis Reliford broke the color barrier in Georgia State Baseball in Statesboro, Ga. He pinch hit, threw out a runner from left field and robbed the Statesboro Pilots best hitter, Jim Shuster of a home run—all in one inning and at the age of 12. His historical catch is on display in Cooperstown, N.Y., where he is the only batboy among Major League Baseball Hall of Fame Inductees. Reliford is the author of “From Batboy to the Hall of Fame.” July 20 1967—The first Black Power Conference takes place in Newark, N.J. More than 1,000 delegates representing 126 organizations attended. The conference represented a break with the integration-with-Whites thrust of the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. Instead, delegates called for greater focus on Black political empowerment, economic development, community control and the building of Black institutions. July 21 1864—Amazingly, what is now considered the first Black daily newspaper begins publishing on this day during slavery. The New Orleans Tribune was founded by wealthy Black Doctor Louis C. Roudanez and edited by a Belgium Jean-Charles Heuzean. The Tribune, however, actually followed the Daily Creole which began publication in 1856. But it was so pressured by Whites that it adopted pro-slavery positions. The Tribune, meanwhile, would begin as a tri-weekly and become a fullfledged daily in October. 1896—The National Association of Colored Women is founded in Washington, D.C., and Mary Church Terrell is elected president. The association would establish nurseries, help orphans, and battle for a woman’s right to vote. Terrell became an activist and power broker in the nation’s capital fighting for desegregation of restaurants and helping build schools. She was born in 1863 and died in 1954. JOHN LEE HOOKER 2001—Blues legend John Lee Hooker dies. He was 83.
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‘America is weeping’: Taking stock after 3 days of tragedy by Matt Sedensky and Sharon Cohen AP National Writers
NEW YORK (AP)—Can this really be America in 2016? Three tumultuous days have brought echoes of decades past and made clear a public that elected a Black president hasn’t reconciled its fractured history with race, that a country that lived through unrest and assassinations in the 1960s and 1970s still bubbles with resentment and rage, and that bloody images of violent tragedy aren’t going away. “America is weeping,’’ said Rep. G.K. Butterfield, head of the Congressional Black Caucus, reflecting an entire nation’s mounting anger, tension and despair. It started Tuesday, July 5, with a familiar scene: A Black man, on the ground, shot by police, with the incident captured on cellphone video. That killing, of a 37year-old named Alton Sterling, who police say was armed and selling CDs outside a Louisiana convenience store, ignited public outrage, and added Baton Rouge to a long list of places where the death of a Black male at the hands of police has come under a cloud of suspicion. It might have remained just that, with Sterling’s name added to a sorrowful litany alongside Michael Brown and Eric Garner and Freddie Gray. Then came Wednesday. In Falcon Heights, Minnesota, another Black man was shot dead by an officer, this time after a traffic stop. As 32-yearold Philando Castile sat bloodied and dying, his girlfriend made a live broadcast on Facebook that gave an eerie look into the aftermath. As the video freezes and the woman loses composure and lets out a scream, the sweet voice of her 4-year-old daughter chimes in to comfort: “It’s OK, I’m right here with you.’’ And then, like clockwork in a new deranged norm, came another evening, another night of tragedy. As demonstrators amassed in Dallas on Thursday to mark what had transpired in the two preceding days, five police officers there to help keep the peace were shot and killed and seven other officers and two civilians were wounded. Authorities said it was the work of a sniper. The suspect, who was killed by police, had said he was upset by the recent shootings and wanted to kill Whites, particularly White officers. It was a devastating climax to three horrific days that Americans are struggling to understand. At the Justice Department, Attorney
EMOTIONAL STATEMENT—Civil right leader Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga., center, wipes his eyes as members of the Congressional Black Caucus make emotional statements condemning the slayings of police officers in Dallas Thursday night, and the fatal police shootings of Black men in Louisiana and Minnesota earlier in the week, during a news conference on Capitol Hill in Washington, Friday, July 8, 2016. From left are: Rep. Barbara Lee, D-Calif., Rep. Marcia L. Fudge, D-Ohio, Rep. John Lewis, DGa., Rep. Frederica Wilson, D-Fla., and Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, D-Texas. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) General Loretta Lynch called it “a week of profound grief and heartbreaking loss.’’ In Chicago, Archbishop Blase Cupich said, “Every corner of our land is in the grip of terror.’’ On Capitol Hill, civil rights icon Rep. John Lewis of Georgia said, “We feel the pain. We feel the hurt.’’ Kevin Boyle, an American history professor at Northwestern University, thought of the late 1960s and the 1992 Los Angeles riots, seeing “terrifying parallels’’ and “echoes for me of other really incredibly tense points.’’ The presence of video documentation of the incidents calls attention to strife that had previously existed only in agonizing private memories. “It’s not that the incidents are new,’’ he said, “it’s our ability to see them.’’ At the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., Kim Hernandez welled with tears Friday as she took stock of the week. “There’s just a really scary sense of humanity right now,’’ she said. “I don’t know what’s going on. I don’t know how we can fix it, but it doesn’t seem like talking is working.’’ At Bible Way Temple in Raleigh, North Carolina, Darnell Dixon Sr., the chief pastor, wondered why more positive change hasn’t come. He presided over the funeral of another Black man who was shot by a White officer earlier this year, and was
part of a dialogue with police that followed and brought him a sense of healing. “I started feeling better,’’ he said. “But yesterday set me back. It bewildered me.’’ As rancor grew, a handful of violent incidents against police arose across the country, including the shooting of an officer in Valdosta, Georgia. Authorities said a man called 911 to report a break-in, then ambushed the responding officer. Some lashed out at the movement that was born of police shootings of Blacks and even at President Barack Obama, accusing him of fueling divisions among people of color and Whites. Conservative radio host Rush Limbaugh called Black Lives Matter a “terrorist movement,’’ while U.S. Rep. Roger Williams, a Republican from Texas, said the “spread of misinformation and constant instigation by prominent leaders, including our president, have contributed to the modern day hostility we are witnessing between the police and those they serve.’’ Black Lives Matter organizers condemned the violence in Dallas, and police haven’t given any indication that the shooter had anything to do with the group. If the gravity of it all seems clear, the road from here does not. Does the assemblage of killings by police around the country and the resulting Black Lives Matter movement lead to
more than candlelight vigils and calls for change? Does the anger that seemingly fueled the shootings in Dallas precipitate and lead to similar attacks on police akin to Black Panther-style violence of long ago? Is this a turning point or simply a continuation? Jeanine Bell, an Indiana University professor who authored “Policing Hatred: Law Enforcement, Civil Rights, and Hate Crime,’’ said the week will not go down as a pivotal point unless it leads to substantive change by police that goes beyond simply diversifying forces and introducing anti-bias training. “Until there is a call for reorganization of policing practices, not just small changes, then it’s very hard to call this a turning point,’’ she said. Pew Research Center, in a survey released last month, found more than 4 in 10 Blacks doubt the nation will ever make changes necessary for racial equality with Whites and that nearly two-thirds of Black adults believe Blacks are treated less fairly than Whites in the workplace. Last week’s killings come in the midst of a divisive presidential election, amid fears of terrorism and on the heels of the latest mass shooting that claimed 49 innocent lives. The killings in Dallas happened just blocks from the book depository where another sniper took aim at President John F. Kennedy. It ended his life and a period of American history that became regarded as “Camelot,’’ and became a presage to the strife, unrest and other assassinations that followed. Two blocks from the shooting site, in Dallas’ historic West End district, Joe Groves owns Ellen’s Southern Kitchen & Bar, where dinner was underway when the gunfire sounded. Many of the officers who were assigned to Thursday night’s demonstration are friends of his, and as the violence erupted, he tapped out three words to two of his uniformed friends: “Love you man.’’ Though Groves is White, most of his 72 workers are Black and Latino; his clientele is diverse as well. The tension that came to a head in the shootings wasn’t something he’d experienced personally, until now. On Friday, his restaurant was open again, but the atmosphere was noticeably different. He said people are speaking more quietly, and the enormity of it all seemed to weigh. He sees some good coming of it all, a connectedness between strangers that is rarely there, a willingness to make eye contact. And even though he thinks race relations may have reached their rock bottom, he sees a reason for hope there, too. “The good news about rock bottom,’’ he said, “is the only way out is up.’’
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JULY 13-19, 2016
Community Calendar Senior Fraud Protection Event JULY 13—The AARP presents legendary forger and flim-flam artist Frank Abagnale, whose early exploits were depicted in the film “Catch Me If You Can,” at the Monroeville Convention Center, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. for a free presentation for seniors on avoiding identity-theft scams. The event is free but registration is required. Call 877-926-8300 or visit www.aarp.cvent.com/PA713Abag nale to register.
Teen Outreach Summit JULY 16—The Community College of Allegheny County will host the lost But Not Forgotten Teen Outreach Summit at its Homewood Brushton Center, from 2 to 5 p.m.. Enjoy refreshments, activities, and more. For more information or to RSVP, contact Dorothy Stubbs at 412969-8423.
Vintage Grand Prix Week JULY 8-17—Beginning with a Black Tie & Tailpipes Gala, featuring a Shadyside Car Show, a Car Cruise at the Waterfront, a Downtown Parade & Plaza Display, and ending with a day of racing, food and car shows at Schenley Park. For details and the full line-up of activities visit www.pvgp.org.
Black Arts Festival JULY 16 & 17—Harambee Ujima presents its annual Black arts festival on Kelly Street, between N. Homewood and Lang Avenues, in Homewood from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. The two-day festival will feature food, vendors and a number of spoken word, musical, and performance artists. Visit harambeeujima.org for more information.
College Enrollment Event JULY 20—CCAC will hold a college-wide enrollment event at all eight of its locations, from 6-
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9 p.m. for prospective students and families. Individuals who bring their high school diploma, GED or college transcripts can complete their CCAC registration in one day. Attendees can take placement tests, meet with an advisor and learn about CCAC’s program offerings in the arts and humanities; business; education, social and behavioral sciences and human services; health; science, technology, engineering and mathematics; and the skilled trades. For more information, contact Margaret Anderson, 412-237-3029.
Forum on Heroin and Opioid Addiction JULY 27—State Rep. Dom Costa, D-Sharpsburg, will host a public forum on heroin and opioid addiction in the Sharpsburg Borough Building, 1611 Main Street, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. He will be joined by area law enforcement, health care professionals, and drug and addiction specialists to discuss ways to work together to combat the epidemic. For more information contact Costa’s office at 412361-2040.
Market Square Farmers Market CONTINUING—The Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership presents the 12th Annual Market Square Farmers Market from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Thursday through Oct. 27. The opening day event includes flower bulb and tree giveaways sponsored by the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. This season will also see the addition of 10 new full and part-time vendors including Two Acres Farms, A519 Chocolate and Pittsburgh Fudge Co. Again this year, Just Harvest’s Fresh Access program will allow credit/debit and food stamp EBT cards to be used to purchase fresh produce, meat, dairy and baked goods.
Moving worshipers from lament to hope CONTINUED FROM A1
specific songs that spoke to desire for help, faith and God as a loving father. These prayers were intended to be demonstrations of the faith imbued within the faith of the members of the Christian Church; Pastor Edmonds explains, “We understood that people were feeling angry, confused, and burdened, so we prayed about how to meet them where they were and provide moments of expression.” Along with the songs, the congregation was given a period to write on pieces of paper anything that was burdening their hearts. They were then giving instructions to leave their seats and proceed around the front of the church and lay those small pieces of paper down in front of a cross as representative of the Cross at Calvary. This was a powerful riveting moment in the service as members young and old alike, including any infirmed came down the aisle silently while a hymn was playing and gently placed their concern on the area that was to represent Throne of God. Pastor Ed-
monds stated, “As a Christian church, we recognize the power of the cross of Christ and find freedom in being able to lay our burdens there figuratively.” The prayers, songs and petitions to God laid the groundwork for an illuminating message by Pastor Edmonds. Creating the desired effect, the sanctuary was darkened and Pastor Edmonds, offered through his message that the first recorded spoken words of God in the Bible was “Let there be Light” Genesis 1-3. He reminded worshipers that in separating the light from darkness as he created this world, God provided for those who are believers, that no matter what happens in their lives, or in this world, nor how much evil, how much killing or even injustice; that Light would always Peirce That Darkness. This was made even more dramatic as in the darkened sanctuary light from outside was still breaking through the closed blinds. He stated that we as a body of believers needed to be sure we kept on the Full Armor of God; Ephesians 6 :10-18 but let our hands and feet Do
Something Positive, saying we have hope by “acknowledging the reality of God’s Light that will always overcome the dark, we can then place our trust in God and then acknowledge our faith by doing something—write a congressman, a city official, or mentor a child—take steps in some positive way to be a part of the changes we seek for our community and country. In the end the congregation knew they should Put On The Full Armor of God and know that Light Will Always Peirce the Dark. This approach with small adjustments was conducted in all services, Pastor Edmonds shared, “In light of the racial charged events in our nation, as pastoral leaders, we knew it was essential for us to minister in a different way.” He continued, “We wanted to help people move from lament to hope in each worship encounter. The feedback from the congregation has been overwhelming. People spoke of how much they need this and how it helped to release some heavy burdens.”
PAT Board vote ushers in fare changes CONTINUED FROM A1
riders. We heard what mattered most for customers. Flat fare, pay-on-enter and card use incentives simplify the ride,” she said. “The investment makes riding more affordable for many, which in turn should encourage more residents to ride.” Other changes, all of which go into effect Jan. 1, 2017, include eliminating the free bus rides in Downtown, charging $1 for ConnectCards and make all riders pay at the start of their trips. The T-will still offer free rides from the North Side through Downtown, but next July, the T will go cashless, meaning riders
will have to use a connect card or purchase tickets before each ride. However, to minimize the effects of eliminating the free bus rides in downtown, and the needs of occasional travelers who normally rely on cash, the authority is bringing back a ghost from the past—the One-Day pass. It can either be added to a ConnectCard or purchased as a ConnecTix from vending Kiosks. It will cost $7 and allow the user unlimited rides for 24 hours. But with pay-enter and the T going cashless, everyone will be on the honor system. So, what is to stop someone who decides to
dodge the fare and ride from, say, Allegheny Station to South Hills Village? To combat that, Port Authority police will randomly check riders’ cards or tickets with handheld validators to make sure they paid. Violators will be cited and fined $150. The biggest change for veteran riders will be the pay-enter system. On most inbound routes it doesn’t raise an issue, but leaving town—at rush hour—will mean long lines, some with wheelchair-riders, all boarding at the front of the bus. McLean said increased usage of the connect cards will eliminate some of the
wait. Tapping a card over an electronic reader can take a second or two, she said, while it takes riders 15 seconds, on average, to pay cash. Though most of the changes are supported by transit activists, not all are. Pittsburghers for Public Transit Organizer Molly Nichols said while she “wholeheartedly” supports reducing the Zone 2 fare, her group remains opposed to the surcharges for cash-paying customers, along with the higher cost of transferring for cashpaying customers. Increasing the number and location of kiosks is also a concern.
41 of 54 homicides Black lives…Home invasions cause three of 10 homicides CONTINUED FROM A1
house, and mothers please be careful of who you have watch your child. June Homicides (10) June 1—Benito Nicoletti, a 73-year-old White male, was found beaten to death in his McKees Rocks home. Branden Frazier, a 25-year-old Black male has been charged in the murder. He is in the Allegheny County Jail awaiting trial. June 3—Carlton Watson, a 24-year-old Black male, was shot to death while driving on Route 65 near the McKees Rocks Bridge on Pittsburgh’s North Side. Police did not release a description of the shooter. The investigation is ongoing. June 3—Richard WestGray, a 26-year-old Black male, was shot to death while driving on Route 65 near the McKees Rocks Bridge on Pittsburgh’s North Side. Police did not release a description of the shooter. The investigation is ongoing. June 3—John Connors, an 83-year-old White male, was found fatally beaten and burned by police responding to a 911 call of “a man on fire.” Jawwaad Ali, a 24-year-old Black male, has been charged with Connors’ homicide. June 7—Keith Coleman, a 31-year-old Black Male, was found lying on Kennedy Street on Pittsburgh’s North Side, shot multiple times. Police believe he was driving when shot; his car hit four others before coming to a rest. Coleman was pronounced dead a short time later at Allegheny General Hospital. The investigation is ongoing. June 9—Isaiah Thomas, a 31-year-old Black male, was found in a wooded area near Lawndale Road in Penn Hills by a man looking for scrap metal. He had been shot, and his body burned. Detectives said Thomas’ death may be related to another Penn Hills homicide from two weeks earlier where the victim was found shot and burned in a car trunk. The investigation is ongoing. June 23—Brenda Johnson, a 58-year-old Black female, was found stuffed in multiple trash bags in her East Pittsburgh apartment. Police say her daughter Catherine Grier, 19, stabbed her to death during an argument about a week earlier.
Grier’s boyfriend, 23-yearold Keith Blackman, was also arrested for dismembering the body. Both are in the Allegheny County Jail. June 23—Jonmarquis Stepich, 8-year-old Black male from Braddock, died after his mother’s fiancé 38year-old Orlando Williams slammed him to the ground for not cleaning his room. Williams has been charged with homicide and is in Allegheny County Jail. June 26—Brandon Turowski, a 27-year-old White male, was fatally shot in his Oakmont house during a home invasion carried out by two unidentified White males. The investigation continues. June 28—Anthony Belland, a 51-year-old Black male, was found shot multiple times at the Marion Circle housing complex in Clairton. He died a short time later at Jefferson Hospital. County police said Belland may have been playing dice prior to his death. The investigation continues. May homicides (8) May 1—Gerald Harris, a 19-yearold Black male, was shot multiple times in a vacant house on Divinity Street in Pittsburgh’s North Side. No arrests have been made. The investigation is ongoing. May 1—Isha Tyree, a 20-year-old Black female, was shot multiple times as she sat in her car outside a vacant house on Divinity Street in Pittsburgh’s North Side. No arrests have been made. The investigation is ongoing. May 15—Darshele Johnson, a 41year-old Black male was found shot multiple times outside a home on Graham Boulevard extension in Penn Hills. Police said he had just exited his car when someone in a white Cadillac drove up and shot him. Johnson had previously been charged in the shooting death of Christopher Moss in 2014. The investigation continues. May 25—Thomas Cheeks, a 40year-old Black male was fatally shot during a home invasion at his Crafton Heights home. His wife and son were home at the time but were not harmed. The two gunmen also killed the family dog. No arrests have been made. The investigation is ongoing. May 26—Tamar Taylor, a 26-yearold Black male, was shot multiple times as he sat in his car on Bellanca Avenue. Police have charged 29-yearold Daevon Plowden with the homicide. He is currently in the Allegheny County Jail. May 27—Dehnad Taiedi, a 78-yearold Iranian, was shot once in the head at the front desk of the motel he owned on Rte. 51 in Jefferson Hills, in what police said was an apparent robbery. No arrests have been made. The investigation is ongoing. May 27—Mark Lopata, a 35-yearold White male was found beaten and fatally shot in his Elliot apartment. Police have charged his roommate, 28-
year-old Robert Hunter in the death. Hunter is in the Allegheny County jail. May 28—Delores Alviani, a 70year-old White female was found by police fatally shot in a bedroom of her Bloomfield home along with her 79year-old husband Louis, also deceased, in what police said was a murder-suicide. April Homicides (6) April 1—Dontae Thompson, a 27year-old Black male was shot multiple times after another vehicle pulled along side him while driving on Henderson Street in Pittsburgh’s Fineview neighborhood. Police discovered him after his car had crashed trough a fence and flipped onto its roof. He was taken to Allegheny General Hospital where he died a few hours later. On April 20, Police arrested Andre Branch-Samuels for the killing after tracking him and his vehicle on surveillance video through several neighborhoods. He is in the Allegheny County Jail awaiting a preliminary hearing scheduled for May 4. April 6—Brandon Nguyen, a 29year-old Asian male, was sitting in his car in front of his home on Shadeland Avenue on Pittsburgh’s North Side when another car pulled up and a tall, thin Black male got out and shot Nguyen multiple times before speeding away. Nguyen was pronounced dead at the scene. No arrest has been made. The investigation is ongoing. April 14—Terence Jackson, a 27year-old Black male, was shot multiple times inside Red’s Bar on E. Warrington Avenue in Pittsburgh’s Beltzhoover neighborhood. He was taken to UPMC Mercy in critical condition and died about two hours later. Another man who was wounded in the leg during the incident said the shooting started after a scuffle. As yet, police have released no description of the shooter. The investigation is ongoing. April 15—Derek Schindler, a 30year-old White male, was fatally shot by Joshua Huber following marijuana and alcohol-fueled argument in Huber’s Etna apartment. Huber’s upstairs neighbor heard the shots and held him at gunpoint with his shotgun until police arrived. Huber is being held in the Allegheny County Jail pending a preliminary hearing. April 15—Melissa Zuk, a 22-yearold White female, was fatally shot by Joshua Huber following marijuana and alcohol-fueled argument in Huber’s Etna apartment. Huber’s upstairs neighbor heard the shots and held him at gunpoint with his shotgun until police arrived. Huber is being held in the Allegheny County Jail pending a preliminary hearing. April 26—Aaron Govostes, a 42year-old Black male, was shot three times in the doorway of his South Oakland home after opening his front door to intruders. His mother and two children were unharmed. Police found marijuana and cash in the house but did not reveal a motive. Govostes was pronounced dead at the scene. His mother described the intruders only as three Black males. As yet, police have no suspects. The investigation is ongoing. March Homicides (10) March 1—Tyrell Jones, a 20-yrold Black man, was discovered by police shot multiple times near a Home-
stead playground. No arrest has been made. The investigation is ongoing. March 5—Michael Watson, a 52year-old Black Male, was discovered by police fatally wounded in the 600 block of Chataqua Street on Pittsburgh’s North Side. He was taken to Allegheny General Hospital where he died shortly afterward. No suspects have been arrested. The investigation is ongoing. March 9—Tina Shelton, 37, Shada Mahone, 26, Chanetta Powell, 25, Brittany Powell, 27, all Black females, Baby Boy Powell, 8 months, and Jerry Shelton, a 35-year-old Black male were all executed by a pair of gunmen at a during a cookout in Wilkinsburg. Despite District Attorney Steven A Zappala saying police had good leads on the shooters, no arrests have been made. The investigation is ongoing. March 12—Derek Price, a 26-yearold Black male was shot multiple times at the Monview Heights housing complex in West Mifflin and later died at the hospital. Hours later police arrested 22-year-old Zyaire James of Clairton and charged him with homicide. He is in the Allegheny County Jail awaiting trial. March 13—Taevon Harris, a 15year-old Black male was fatally shot by 19-yea-old Ryzel Barret after the two argued outside Mr. Barrett’s house in Homestead. Police said Barrett then went into the house, argued with his father, shot and wounded him shooting himself. March 14—Walli Hardy, a 23-yearold Black male, was found shot to death in a neighbor’s kitchen in Homewood. No suspects have been arrested. The investigation is ongoing. March 23—Linda Katilius, a 63year-old White female, was strangled to death by her 60-year-old husband Richard, who confessed to the crime. He is in the Allegheny County Jail awaiting trial. March 24—Saevon Ponder, a 21year-old Black male, was fatally shot and dumped in Beltzhoover after being kidnapped over what police said was a drug debt. Mitchell Coles has been arrested and charged with the shooting, kidnapping and other charges. He is in the Allegheny County Jail awaiting trial. March 25—Tarvus Gainer, a 28year-old Black male, was found fatally shot on Montier Street in Wilkinsburg. No arrests have been made. The investigation continues. March 27—Glenn Fischer, a 49year-old White male, was discovered strangled after a disturbance in a neighbor’s home. No charges have yet been filed. February Homicides (4) FEB. 3—Reginald Franklin, a 27year-old Black male from Homewood, was fatally shot while exiting a store in the 7200 block of Frankstown Avenue in Homewood. He was taken to UPMC Presbyterian where he later died. No one has been charged; the investigation is ongoing. On the listing provided by the Allegheny County Office of the Medical Examiner, Franklin is identified as Reginald Frankin. Feb. 15—Calvin Turner, 56, Gerald Johnson, 68, and Darlyn Vance, 73, all Black males died of smoke inhalation and burns after the North Lang
Street house where they lived in Homewood was set on fire. Latoya Lyerly, 42, who also lived there confessed to the arson. She is in the Allegheny County Jail. FEB. 15—Keith Woodard, a 19year-old Black male from North Side, was found with multiple gunshot wounds in the 100 block of Waldorf Street in the North Side. He was taken to Allegheny General Hospital where he later died. No one has been charged; the investigation is ongoing. FEB. 15—Amelia Roman, a 96year-old White female from North Braddock, was found dead in her North Braddock home, in the 700 block of Jones Avenue, by individuals conducting a welfare check. It has been reported that she had a heart attack during a home invasion in which she was left bound and gagged. No one has been charged; the investigation is ongoing. FEB. 17—Madeline Bernard, a 65year-old Black female from Brighton Heights, was found stabbed to death in her home on Verner Court in Brighton Heights. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Madeline Bernard was reportedly stabbed during a domestic altercation with her daughter, Sommer Bernard, who has been charged with criminal homicide. January Homicides JAN. 10—Damion Graham, a 39year-old Black male from the North Side, was fatally shot during a domestic altercation at a home on Forest Avenue in Bellevue. He was pronounced dead at the scene. No one has been charged; the investigation is ongoing. JAN. 10—Chauncey Howard, a 25year-old Black male from the North Side, was found fatally shot inside of a vehicle that had crashed into a pole in the 3100 block of Universal Street in Sheraden. He was found by officers who were responding to a call of shots fired in the 3200 block. Howard was pronounced dead at the scene. Tremond Allston and Charles Williams have been charged with criminal homicide, criminal conspiracy, carrying a firearm without a license and more. JAN. 15—Martell Benton-Bridgett, an 18-year-old Black male from McKees Rocks, was found at the Holiday Inn Express, in the 800 block of Greentree Road, in Greentree, with multiple gunshot wounds. He was taken to a local hospital where he later died. It has been reported that he had been at a party at the hotel when he was shot. No one had been charged; the investigation is ongoing. JAN. 19—Shawn Cavender, a 39year-old Black male from Pittsburgh, was found with multiple gunshot wounds to his lower extremities in a home in the 100 block of Southern Avenue in Mt. Washington. He was taken to UPMC Mercy Hospital where he later died. Reportedly, he had gotten into an argument with another male who fled the scene. No one has been charged; the investigation is ongoing. JAN. 19—Raymond O’Neal, a 17year-old Black male from Penn Hills, was shot and killed at a home in the 8900 block of Upland Terrace in Penn Hills. It is believed that there was a confrontation and O’Neal was shot. No one has been charged; the investigation is ongoing.
JAN. 20—Dante Dawkins, a 29year-old Black male from Clairton, was shot to death in the 400 block of Windgap Avenue, in Windgap Industrial Park, which is in the Windgap/Esplen area. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Divine Barrett was also found dead at the scene; one was found in a nearby vehicle and the other was lying in the street. No one has been charged; the investigation is ongoing. (The Office of the Medical Examiner of Allegheny County has Dawkins’ age listed as 39, but other reports and an obituary list him as 29.) JAN. 20—Divine Barrett, a 24year-old Black male from New Jersey, was shot to death in the 400 block of Windgap Avenue, in Windgap Industrial Park, which is in the Windgap/Esplen area. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Dante Dawkins was also found dead at the scene; one was found in a nearby vehicle and the other was lying in the street. No one has been charged; the investigation is ongoing. JAN. 21—Bronson Waite, a 23year-old White male from Brighton Heights, was found shot to death in the torso at a residence in the 3900 block of Vinceton Street in Perry North. He was pronounced dead at the scene. It has been reported that a robbery and the shooting may have taken place the previous day. Daron Clark has been charged with criminal homicide, burglary, robbery, criminal conspiracy, receiving stolen property and possession of a firearm with an altered manufacture number. JAN. 22—Janese Jackson Talton, a 29-year-old Black female from Penn Hills, was found fatally shot outside of Cliff’s Bar, located at North Lang Avenue in Homewood, by officers who were responding to a ShotSpotter notification. She was pronounced dead at the scene. According to reports, Talton was allegedly shot by Charles McKinney after rejecting his advances. McKinney is charged with criminal homicide, aggravated assault, carrying a firearm without a license, fleeing or attempting to elude police, possession with intent to deliver, recklessly endangering another person and reckless driving. JAN. 30—Eric Johnson, a 24-yearold Black male from McKeesport, was fatally shot in the area of Fern Alley, in McKeesport, while sitting in a vehicle with another male. Johnson died at the scene; the other male was taken to a local hospital. No one has been charged; the investigation is ongoing. JAN. 31—Bruce Kelley Jr., a 37year-old Black male from Pittsburgh, was shot and killed by Port Authority Police after an altercation. According to reports, Kelley and his father were found drinking alcohol at a Wilkinsburg shelter near the East Busway when officers initially encountered them. An altercation broke out and the two got away. After finding the two again and Kelley allegedly refusing orders to put down a knife, officers Tased him. When that did not work, they released their K-9, Aren, and Kelley stabbed him. Officers then shot and killed Kelley. He died of multiple gunshot wounds to the trunk and extremities. Aren also died. The investigation is ongoing.
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
JULY 13-19, 2016 A5
METRO
Still We Rise protest racial injustice
HUNDREDS PROTEST—The protest going up 6th Avenue. (Photos by J.L. Martello)
Black Lives Matter march peaceful STILL WE RISE—The front of the march protesters carried a banner that read “Still We Rise” (Photos by J.L. Martello) CONTINUED FROM A1
to the violence in our community cannot be more violence. Pittsburgh’s strength has always been in coming together to solve issues and supporting each other in times of need. We rely on that strength and we need it now more than ever.
“We have great faith that all of us—residents, communities, law enforcement, activists—have the capacity to come together to heal from our pain and anger, no matter how difficult that may be for us. We can do more to honor the lives of those who were killed by
working together to stop the violence and have a more peaceful community.” Peduto and Members of the Pittsburgh Interfaith Action Network have, respectively called for a Peace Summit, and a dialog on policing, racism and equity. Neither has yet been scheduled.
ORGANIZERS—Jobie Mack on the left and her sister Sarafina Davis from the East End who organized the march. CONTINUED FROM A1
doesn’t have another term in any office.” When the crowd returned to Point State Park, took to the stage including William Anderson, who said the problem is bigger than police violence against Blacks. “Yes they are killing us, killing our future,” he said. “But if Black Lives Matter, they have to matter to us first. We have to stand up against the violence in our communities. Say something, make a phone call—take a picture with your phone. Continue to stand up, continue to fight, and continue to love each other.” Walt Gibson, who told the crowd he is a licensed gun owner, said he was particularly disturbed by the video of an officer shooting legal gun owner Philando Castile in Falcon Heights, Minn. as he reached for his license during a traffic stop. “On any other day, that could have been me,” he said. “People need to realize there are millions of us law-abiding Black men who legally carry guns. We’re not carrying them to shoot you, we’re carrying them to defend ourselves. Philando Castile was exercising his 2nd Amendement right—he didn’t deserve to die for exercising his right.” Sarafina Davis, who organized the rally with a simple Facebook post, said she had no idea it would grow so large. “I want to thank everyone who came out, I didn’t think it would get this big. I started this because I’m only 23 and I was taught in school that racism was over— and yet I see police killing our brothers, children, sisters, and I had enough,” she said. “We have to teach our children to defend themselves from a society that doesn’t like us or want us. Don’t leave it
to the schools, educate them yourself. And if you see a young boy in your neigh who need guidance take him under your wing.” That was the sentiment echoed by Mayor Bill Peduto, who called for holding a peace summit in a press release. “We are all affected by the violence in our communities—whether it be here in Pittsburgh, in Dallas, or so many other cities— and we all must do everything we can to stop it,” He said. “Pittsburgh is a strong and resilient place, and our bonds are even stronger when all of us in the city work together.” Working with Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, Peduto said he intends to gather leaders from law enforcement, faith-based institutions, activist groups, foundations, labor, the corporate community and government to work constructively to address vio lence facing Pittsburgh and the entire nation, and find ways to promote racial healing. On July 12, the Pittsburgh Interfaith Action Committee held a press conference to push the idea further, calling for a dialog on not only on policing, but on the racial disparities found in jobs, housing, and education that make people of color more likely to interact with police. PIIN will kick off this dialogue with a community meeting next week. “We can ask our police to have all the implicit bias training in the world, but as long as people of color face racism and adversity in every other aspect of our society, we will continue to be more likely to be arrested, locked up, or the worst of all possible outcomes, killed,” he said. No event has yet been scheduled.
BLACK LIVES MATTER SIGN—Many carried signs reading many different things.
HUNDREDS MARCHED—The protest march reached about a block and a half on grant street with protesters carry many different signs.
PROTESTERS AS FAR AS YOU CAN SEE—The protest marchers start to cross the Smithfield bridge as they extend back to the Boulevard of Allies.
A6
JULY 13-19, 2016
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
OPINION
Two more Black men executed
Guest Editorial
A nation in mourning America is in mourning. This week, the country watched in horror as two Black men were killed in two days, followed by the murder of five police officers in Dallas. On Thursday night, a sniper opened fire on police officers, killing five officers and injuring seven others during a peaceful protest over two recent fatal police shootings of Black men. The shooting deaths of two Black men within days by law enforcement officers are the latest in a long list of such cases that have made headlines nationwide in recent years. On Friday, five officers were killed by Micah Xavier Johnson, a 25-year-old African-American former Army Reserve veteran, who authorities now believe was the only gunman in the ambush. Police said they believed the gunman may have been prompted by concerns over police encounters with African Americans. President Barack Obama spoke to a nation horrified by the shootings. “Today is a wrenching reminder of the sacrifices that they make for us,” Obama said. “Today our focus is on the victims and their families. They are heartbroken. The entire city of Dallas is grieving. Police across America, which is a tight-knit family, feels this loss to their core.” This is a difficult time for the city of Dallas and for the nation. America is at a crossroads. Americans, especially the nation’s elected officials and those in law enforcement, must be in the forefront of the fight against injustice and police brutality. As the president said there’s no contradiction between supporting law enforcement and working to see that biases in the justice system are rooted out. “So when people say ‘Black Lives Matter,’ that doesn’t mean blue lives don’t matter,” he said, referring to police. “It just means all lives matter— but right now the big concern is the fact that the data shows Black folks are more vulnerable to these kinds of incidents.” While there is no justification for the shootings of the five Dallas police officers, we must work toward addressing the real rage many African Americans are feeling. Many believe there is no accountability for police officers who kill Black men. More must be done to hold violent police officers accountable. The police unions and others cannot continue to automatically support police officers who are engaged in misconduct. All professions have bad apples including police; to pretend otherwise will only exacerbate the problem. More must be done to improve the screening for good officers, root out those psychologically unfit and hold bad officers accountable. Finally, more must be done to improve relations between police officers and the communities they serve. In too many communities across America, police officers are seen as an occupying force within the African-American community. Mutual respect and trust must be built between police and African Americans. The anger, frustration, and sadness many Americans feel right now about the fatal shootings of police officers and Black men losing their lives at the hands of police officers must be turned toward real change. (Reprinted from the Philadelphia Tribune)
Pittsburgh Courier NEW
Just as America began to recover after 49 people were killed and 52 wounded, two men were killed execution style by police, then five police officers were shot dead and seven wounded. Why? The people in the night club were shot because they were gay, the two men were executed because they were Black and the five killed and seven wounded because they were police officers. The men shooting the gays and police were sadistic radicals who believed they were working for God, but the two Black men killed were shot by trained police officers who are suppose to Serve and Protect were just as cold blooded as the sadistic radicals. A woman who watched as a police officer fatally shot her boyfriend during a traffic stop streamed the gruesome aftermath of the slaying live on Facebook, telling a worldwide audience that her companion had been shot “for no apparent reason” while reaching for his wallet. Within hours, the Minnesota governor was pressing for the Justice Department to open its second investigation of the week into the death of a Black man at the hands of police. “Nobody should be shot and killed in Minnesota for a tail light being out of function,” Gov. Mark Dayton said. “Would this have happened if those passengers would have been White? I don’t think it would have.” The Hennepin County Medical Examiner said Philando Castile, 32, of St. Paul, died of multiple gunshot wounds. No other details about the injuries were released. The first fatal police shooting was 37-year-old Black man was killed by officers in Baton Rouge, La. Alton Sterling’s death was caught on video. Even though the two officers had him pinned down and hands were being held in plain view one officer shot him point blank five times as his young son looked on. National outrage over the killings exploded into violence in Dallas, where a sniper fatally shot five police officers and wounded several more, authorities said. The mother of Sterling denounced the killings of five police officers in Dallas during a protest over police shootings, which included her son. A statement issued by Quinyetta
Ulish Carter
Just Sayin’
McMillon’s attorneys says, “responding to violence with violence is not the answer.” “We wholeheartedly reject the reprehensible acts of violence that were perpetrated against members of the Dallas Police Department,” the statement says. “Our hearts break for the families of the officers who were lost as they protected protesters and residents alike during a rally.” Diamond Reynolds describes being pulled over in a St. Paul suburb of Falcon Heights, a mostly White community of 5,000 people for a “busted tail light” and says her boyfriend had told the officer he was carrying a gun for which he was licensed. The woman with Castile said that he was killed even though he complied with the officer’s instructions. She told reporters that Castile did “nothing but what the police officer asked of us, which was to put your hands in the air and get your license and registration.” The two officers had been with the St. Anthony Police Department for four years and were put on administrative leave, as is standard. One officer approached Castile’s car from the driver’s side, and one from the passenger side, Several videos, including squad car video of the incident, have been collected, but St. Anthony officers don’t wear body cameras. President Barack Obama called Sterling’s and Castile’s deaths “symptomatic of the broader challenges within our criminal justice system, the racial disparities that appear across the system year after year, and the resulting lack of trust that exists between law enforcement and too many of the communities they serve.” Castile’s was a well-liked 32-year-old cafeteria supervisor at a Montessori school. Speaking to CNN, Castile’s mother (Ulish Carter is the managing editor of the said that she suspected she would never learn the whole truth about her New Pittsburgh Courier.)
Enemies of the People (GEORGE CURRY MEDIA)—In the hours before the 25-year-old Army veteran Micah Johnson launched his, in the words of President Obama, “vicious, calculated and despicable” attack on White officers of the Dallas police force, something simultaneously remarkable and ordinary occurred. Department officials took advantage of the peacefulness of the early-evening demonstration there—organized to protest the killings of two Black men by nonBlack police officers in Louisiana and Minnesota—to post pictures of it. “Men, women, boys & girls gathered @BeloGarden Park for the demonstration re: recent police involved shootings” read the caption to one photo that in other circumstances might have suggested a crowd gathered for an evening outdoor music concert. Who could have imagined those photos would within hours become part of the evidence of what Johnson sought to destroy—the attempt in Dallas to find a pathway out of a troubled past and a difficult present to mutual trust and cooperation. Johnson’s murderous rampage that took the lives of five White officers was the work of an enemy of the people. He wasn’t acting “on behalf of” Black Americans in any way. Instead, he was acting out the demons within him he could no longer even partially control. It is striking and revealing that he acted amid a demonstration that had shown police, whose task was to keep order, and a multiracial throng protesting instances of police wrongdoing could occupy the same space respectfully. Just 12 months ago, much of America was horrified by another murderous rampage, committed by Dylann Roof, Micah Johnson’s mirror image across the color line. Johnson apparently held some mumbo-jumbo Black separatist no-
Lee A. Daniels
Commentary tions and declared he wanted to kill White people, especially White cops. Roof, trying to find an excuse for his sense of worthlessness, latched on to the pathetic ideology of White supremacy and talked of wanting to start a race war. Johnson, armed with a semi-automatic rifle, hid under the cover of night in a downtown garage to snipe at police officers whom a day of peace had given no reason to suspect trouble. Roof chose a house of worship to commit his crime against humanity, concealing his true intentions behind a meek countenance and the welcoming embrace of the congregants of Charleston, S.C.’s Emanuel AME Church. After this latest tragedy, it would be easy to surrender to the dynamic of hatred and violence and despair swirling furiously in American society. One could note the vile cover the New York Post posted even before Dallas police officials had finished securing the crime scene there. “Civil War,” it screamed — giving vent to the eternal fear-fantasy of White racists of a “Black uprising” against White people. And one could note the bellowing Twitter rant of Joe Wilson, the former Congressman who infamously yelled “You lie!” to President Obama during his first State of the Union address. Even as the gunfight between Johnson and Dallas police was still raging, Wilson, now a semiobscure radio talk-show jockey, tweeted that Obama was “cophater” and “This is now war. Watch out Obama.”
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son’s death. “I think he was just Black in the wrong place,” Valerie Castile said, adding that she had stressed to her children that they must do what authorities tell them to do to survive. “I always told them, whatever you do when you get stopped by police, comply, comply, comply.” Castile was the superviser of a cafeteria at J.J. Hill Montessori, a St. Paul magnet school with 530 students and 85 staff members. “He stood out because he was happy, friendly and related to people well,” she said. After learning of his death, his boss went to the governor’s mansion, in the same neighborhood as the school, to take part in a vigil. “I want his name respected,” she said. Dallas Police Chief, David Brown, and Deputy Chief, Milik Aziz are Black. They spoke very highly of the police officers killed and the racial relations of the police department and the community on a very diverse police force. The sniper, Micah Johnson, was described as a person seeking to kill police officers and had planned a much larger scale of mass killings but was killed by a robot from the bomb squad before he could do any more damage. Dallas Mayor and some of the police officers, Black and White, spoke at Bishop T. D. Jakes’ mega church in an effort of healing relations and handling the grief of the loss of the police officers as well as Sterling and Castile. There have been both peaceful and violent rallies, vigils, and marches all over the country including Pittsburgh. But most have been peaceful. Violence is not the answer. Police departments must do a better job of weeding out the bad apples, and training their people how to apprehend people without deadly force. And once again, certain weapons shouldn’t be available to the general public, such as the weapons the Dallas, and gay nightclub shooters used. The officers who pulled the triggers in the Baton Rouge and St. Paul shootings should be tried for murder with the other officers as accomplishes. That would make cops think twice before pulling the trigger.
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And one could note the revealing reactions of the National Rifle Association to the police involved killings of Alton B. Sterling, in Louisiana and Philandro Castile and the Dallas massacre. The NRA’s statement, issued soon after the Dallas gunman had been killed, expressed the “deep anguish all of us feel for the heroic Dallas law enforcement officers who were killed and wounded, as well as to those who so bravely ran toward danger to defend the city and the people of Dallas. With heavy hearts, NRA members honor their heroism and offer our deepest condolences to all of their families.” What the NRA had to say about the two other tragedies was starkly different. It was completely silent about Alton Sterling’s death. Nor could the NRA leadership bring itself to even mention the name of Philandro Castile—who was licensed to carry a gun and, according to his girlfriend, Diamond Reynolds, had told the police officer who was to shoot him to death that he had a gun in his car. Instead, the brief NRA statement meekly read: “... the NRA proudly supports the right of law-abiding Americans to carry firearms for defense of themselves and others regardless of race, religion or sexual orientation. The reports from Minnesota are troubling and must be thoroughly investigated. In the meantime, it is important for the NRA not to comment while the investigation is ongoing. Rest assured, the NRA will have more to say once all the facts are known.” Yes, callousness, hypocrisy and outright bigotry still play a significant role in the dynamics of America’s “conversation” on race, be it about police-community relations or anything else. But, one should also note how vigorous, and, thanks to social media, swift was the condemnation from many quarters of the New York Post’s racist cover headline, and of Joe Wilson’s racist Twitter rant, and of the NRA leadership’s callous, cowardly behavior, including from some NRA members. Those reactions are evidence, one should take hope in believing, that those committed to finding a peaceful way forward—symbolized by the photos of the protest posted by the Dallas police force before tragedy struck—far, far outnumber Micah Johnson, Dylann Roof and all the other enemies of the people. (Lee A. Daniels, a former reporter for The Washington Post and the New York Times, is also a former editor of The National Urban League’s The State of Black America. He can be reached at leedanielsjournalist@gmail.com)
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
The false dichotomy between supporting police or legitimate protest (GEORGE CURRY MEDIA)—If Micah Xavier Johnson’s goal was to support people in Dallas who were protesting the fatal police shootings of Alton Sterling in Baton Rouge, La. and Philando Castile in Falcon Heights, Minn., he failed miserably. Not only did he not advance the cause by killing five law enforcement officers, his deadly action was the catalyst for the public discussion to dramatically shift from videotaped police misconduct to the dangers of policing in America. The news media, which had been giving extensive coverage to the deaths of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile, quickly shifted gears and focused almost exclusively on the police attacks in Dallas, filling the airways with touching individual profiles and extolling the virtues of police officers who ran toward danger to protect the public instead of retreating to safety. The stories of heroism deserved to be told. But so did the unfolding stories behind the deaths of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling. The media coverage mirrored a larger dilemma: Americans were being told in no uncertain terms that they had to pick sides—they were either on the side of police officers or the side of protesters. It’s a false dichotomy—one can be supportive of police while also supporting protests against police misconduct. And, as we saw in the news coverage, whenever one is pitted against the other, the police will win every time. And they certainly will win when the killer is Black and all of the victims are White. The moment the news flashed across television that someone was firing on police officers in Dallas, the natural reflex in Black America was to say: “I hope that person isn’t Black.” African Americans know how differently Blacks and Whites are perceived in America.
George E. Curry
Commentary When 12 people were killed in a movie theater in Aurora, Col., it was blamed on the shooter, James Holmes. Adam Lanza was identified as the killer of 20 first-graders and six educators at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn. Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold were fingered as the killers of 13 at Columbine High School in Colorado. Dylan Storm Roof killed nine Black church worshipers in Charleston, S.C. And Timothy McVeigh was put to death for masterminding the explosion of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City that left 168 people dead and more than 600 injured. However, when a Black individual does something reprehensible, too often that guilt immediately gets assigned to all Blacks, not the individual committing the dastardly act. President Obama addressed that point at a news conference in Warsaw, Poland. “The demented individual who carried out those attacks in Dallas, he’s no more representative of African Americans than the shooter in Charleston was representative of White Americans, or the shooter in Orlando or San Bernardino were representative of Muslim Americans,” he said. “They don’t speak for us. That’s not who we are.” Conservatives were quick to blame the president, who was 4,480 miles away at the time, for the Dallas rampage. Representative Roger Williams, R-Texas, said, “The spread of misinformation and constant instigation by prominent leaders, including our president, have contributed to the modern day hostility we are witnessing between the police and those they serve. As a result, today we are seeing one of the noblest professions condemned by those who could benefit the most.” As the Washington Post observed in a headline, “Police are Safer under Obama than they have been in Decades.” The story noted, “But the simplistic and inflammatory notion of a ‘war on cops’ is completely undercut by one fundamental data point: Intentional attacks on police officers are at historically low levels under President Obama. “Data from the Officers Down Memorial Page, which tracks law enforcement officer fatalities in real time, illustrates the point. During the Reagan years, for instance, an average of 101 police officers were intentionally killed each year. Under George H.W. Bush that number fell to 90. It fell further, to 81 deaths per year, under Bill Clinton, and to 72 deaths per year under George W. Bush. “Under Obama, the average number of police intentionally killed each year has fallen to its lowest level yet—an average of 62 deaths annually through 2015.” Meanwhile, the number of people killed by police is up in the first six months of this year, from 465 in the first six months of 2015 to 481 over a similar period this year. It’s not just a case of driving while Black. African Americans run the risk of being killed when simply breathing while Black, as Washington Post columnist Jonathan Capehart so vividly recounted. He wrote, “A broken taillight can get you killed (Philando Castile). Selling CDs outside a convenience store can get you killed (Alton Sterling). Selling loose cigarettes can get you killed (Eric Garner). Playing in a park with a toy gun can get you killed (Tamir Rice). Shopping in a Walmart can get you killed (John Crawford III). A missing license plate can get you killed (Samuel DuBose). Worshiping in your church can get you killed (the Mother Emanuel nine). A routine traffic stop can get you shot (Levar Jones) or killed (Sandra Bland, Walter Scott). And as every African American knows, a routine traffic stop is never routine when you’re Black.” (George E. Curry is President and CEO of George Curry Media, LLC. He is the former editor-in-chief of Emerge magazine and the NNPA. He can be reached through his Web site, georgecurry.com.)
JULY 13-19, 2016
FORUM
Elimination of ignorance will suffocate racism Across the and defense centuries igno- Louis ‘Hop’ Kendrick attorneys, frarance has ternities and overwhelmsororities, ingly proven to lodges, V.A. be the most lodges, White singular detriuniversities, mental factor. lending instiHistory is retutions, emplete with ployers, hospiepisodes tals and even where ignorance was prevalent. The cemeteries. The proponents of ignoships that docked in Africa and en- rance were so effective that it had an countered people with bones in their unbelievable effect on untold numnoses, rings in their ears, singing bers of Blacks, because too many of praises to animals, and cannibalism, us bought into “we are second class were perceived as ignorant natives. citizens.” However history proved to us that Today’s housing market reflects these same natives were performing how Blacks are still perceived, when heart and brain surgeries long before an upscale community becomes a the western world were drinking out certain percentage of Blacks, White of metal containers, an example of ig- flight occurs, for sale signs appear alnorance. most overnight. After many, many If you look up the definition of igno- years of this kind of ignorance a rance in Webster’s dictionary it will number of persons who bought into simply be defined as persons who just it don’t even see Blacks as human. A don’t know. That may be an appropri- limited number of Blacks have been ate definition for the masses, but defi- accepted to a degree because they nitely does not apply to those who are gifted sports personalities. There publish the dictionaries. It is my ab- are some who have been subjected to solute belief that those who are in the racism all of their lives and it is not positions of power intentionally put easy to separate what you have together what they believed would di- heard all of your life, sometimes from vide the masses Black and White. those who are the most dear to you, They instilled in poor Whites that your parents. they were better than poor Blacks The devastating events of last and it proved to be extremely effec- week, the killings of Blacks and the tive. police sends a clear message that One of the top proponents of this America still has a long way to go beracist attitude was the former U.S. fore it can truly become a true land Sen. Eastland of the state of Missis- of opportunity for all of us. All of us sippi, who upon his retirement con- Blacks and Whites alike must reach fessed that he never believed that the point in life that we will not just the color of a person’s skin made him recite phrases, but truly live out that better or worst. However for decades “All Lives Matter.” he and other White persons across Last Sunday the minister closed America promoted White was better out his message with a statement than Black. This ignorance was spo- that was right on target. “We must ken at the dinner table, all White accept being different and still minischools, all White churches, police de- mize our differences.” (Louis “Hop” Kendrick is a contributor to partments local, state and federal, all White courts judges, prosecutors the New Pittsburgh Courier.)
To Tell The Truth
Louisiana’s ‘War on Cops’ Last year, citizen into a Radley Balko J. Pharoah Doss potential enemy author of Rise combatant and of the Warrior the only rule of Cop: The Militaengagement is rization of self preservaAmerica’s Police tion. forces, wrote an Balko also opinion for the said, “It also Wa s h i n g t o n makes for a Post titled, miserable work “Once Again: There is no ‘War on life. You’re going to constantly be onCops’, and those who claim otherwise guard, on-edge, and jumpy. That are playing a dangerous game.” isn’t a state of mind that…Seeks out Balko responded to poll data that peaceful conflict resolution. It’s a found 58 percent of poll takers be- state of mind that makes an officer lieved there was an actual “War on more likely to reach for his gun.” Cops” after a few shootings where poThis was the state of mind forelice officers were targeted or killed. casted if the fiction turned into fact. Balko blamed the media and politi(A psychological state that already cians for spreading hysteria through existed and is given the benefit of the “fact-free fear mongering” when the doubt because of dangerous work facts indicated 2015 was on record conditions. But what defensive claim pace to be the safest year for police made by an officer will be reasonably officers in decades. doubted by a jury if their work con(Proponents of the “War on Cops” ac- ditions are considered warfare?) knowledged police killings were down, In May 2016 Louisiana became the but justified the phrase because of in- first state to sign a bill protecting pocreased anti-police rhetoric.) lice under hate crime laws because of Previous war metaphors on the “War on cops”. The governor’s poverty, drugs, and terror were used signature turned a chosen profession to draft public opinion in favor of (that was already protected by law) policies stated to protect Americans. into a protected class like oppressed But the phrase “War on Cops” does minorities. The passage of the bill turned the not emphasize a policy to protect Americans. It is an accusation that “War on Cops” into a reality in American citizens have declared war Louisiana. It was just a matter of time, on those sworn to protect the public, less than six weeks, before White police and it threatens to make endangered officers in Louisiana made national headlines for killing a Black male they community/police relations extinct. Balko’s right, “War on Cops” is a mistook for an enemy combatant. The “War on Terror” had an official dangerous game of words, especially if the fiction is believed by police offi- color coded warning system that measured the level of threats against cers. Balko stated when cops are con- the United States on any given day. stantly told that they’re under fire, The governor of Louisiana should that their every interaction with a create a color code for the first state citizen could be their last, and to have an official “War on Cops”, but they’re fortunate to go home in one instead of measuring the intensity of piece after each shift would put any anti-cop rhetoric made by civilians it human being on edge. This kind of should measure the pulse of their reminder on a regular basis, the no- protectors. (J. Pharoah Doss is a contributor to the tion of war blaring in the background every minute while on duty creates a New Pittsburgh Courier. He blogs at combative mindset that turns every jpharoahdoss@blogspot.com)
Commentary
A7
James Clingman
Blackonomics
Requiem for Black people (GEORGE CURRY MEDIA)—Lorenzo Collins, Michael Carpenter, Roger Owensby Jr., Timothy Thomas, Amadou Diallo, Patrick Dorismond, Kenneth Walker, Sean Bell, Timothy Russell, Kimani Gray, Ezzell Ford, John Crawford, Tamir Rice, Oscar Grant, Eric Garner, Kajieme Powell, Malissa Williams, Vonderitt Myers, Dante Parker, Michael Brown, Tyisha Miller, Trayvon Martin, Dontre Hamilton, Tony Robinon, Jason Harrison, Martin Hall, Bettie Jones, Tanisha Anderson, Yvette Smith, Sandra Bland, Matthewe Ajibade, Eric Harris, Keith Childress, Kevin Matthews, Leroy Browning, Gus Rugley, Ray Smoot, Roy Nelson, Miguel Espinal, Jonny Gammage, Nathaniel Pickett, Cornelius Brown, Tiara Thomas, Chandra Weaver, Jamar Clark, Richard Perkins, Akai Gurley, Stephen Tooson, Michael Lee Marshall, Alonzo Smith, Anthony Ashford, Lamontez Jones, India Kager, Samuel DuBose, Felix Kumi, Walter Scott, Billie Ray Davis, Darrius Stewart, Albert Davis, Jonathan Sanders, Spencer McCain, Freddie Gray, Eric Harris, Charly “Africa” Keunang, Emerson Clayton, Jr., Tommy Yancy, Jerame C. Reid, Corey Tanner, Zikarious Flint, David Andre Scott, Emmanuel Jean-Baptiste, Victor White III, Matthew Walker, Darrien Nathaniel Hunt, Jeremy Lake, Laquan McDonald, Denzel Ford, Pierre Loury, Cedrick Chatman, Alton Sterling, Philando Castille... I could go on, but I am sure you get the point. “I feared for my life.” “He reached for his waistband.” “I saw something shiny.” “He ran.” “He made eye contact with me.” “He fit the description.” “He resisted.” “He threatened me.” “He didn’t comply.” “He would not put the brick down.” “He would not put the knife down.” “He weighed 400 pounds.” “My hand got caught in the steering wheel.” “He dragged me with the car.” “He lunged at me.” “My gun accidentally went off.” “I thought I was firing my Taser.” “He was acting strangely.” “He was holding a screwdriver when he came to the door.” “He had a broom when he came to the door.” “He was armed with a soup spoon.” “He had a prescription pill bottle in his pocket but I thought it was a gun.” “He had a BB gun.” “He had a toy pellet gun.” “He was obese.” “He kept saying ‘I can’t breathe’ so we knew he was still breathing.” “The stairwell was dark.” “He behaved like a thug.” “He was wearing a hoodie.” “After he survived a car accident, he approached us with empty hands.” “He was running toward us but we shot him in the back.” “He did not comply within 2 seconds.” “He shot himself while being handcuffed behind his back, with a gun that we did not find when we searched him.” “Our hearts go out to the families.” “Our prayers and thoughts are with the family.” “This can never happen again.” “He could have been my son.” “R.I.P.” “Our condolences go out.” “She could have been our daughter.” “It’s a tragic and sad day for our nation.” “We shall overcome.” “This has to stop.” “We cannot rush to judgment.” “We must wait until the investigation is over.” “Let the process work.” “The video does not tell the whole story of what happened.” “We are all saddened by this tragic event.” “Our hearts grieve with this family.” “They don’t get up in the morning saying, ‘I am going to kill a Black man today.’” “They want to go home at night.” “All police officers are not bad.” “The vast majority of officers are good.” “Let’s not indict all officers because of the actions of one or two.” “Black lives matter.” “Blue lives matter.” “All lives matter.” “This is not a Black problem; it’s an American problem.” “No justice no peace.” “Nonviolence is the answer.” “We need a national conversation on police violence.” “I found no evidence to indict the officer(s).” “It’s Ok Mommy; It’s Ok, I’m right here with you.” These acts are heinous, horrific, terrible, irresponsible, immoral, reprehensible, indefensible, unconscionable, unacceptable, horrifying, shocking, frightening, inhumane, uncivilized, animalistic, disgraceful, shameful, inexcusable, insulting, depraved, shameless, cowardly, outrageous, scandalous, dishonorable, discreditable, appalling, dreadful, irrefutable, atrocious, unspeakable, ludicrous, indecent, disreputable, brutal, wicked, offensive, brazen, unabashed, gutless, spineless, odious, awful, revolting, blatant, and sinful. Black people are disgusted, dismayed, outraged, fuming, livid, irate, sickened, revolted, repulsed, repelled, offended, affronted, hurt, scared, tenuous, intimidated, fearful, incensed, enraged, nauseated, injured, disrespected, tired, sick and tired, and angry. After everything is said and done, much is said and little is done. Our words are like a needle on a scratched record—we are stuck, and we keep repeating the same thing over and over again. If you are conscious and conscientious, join the One Million in Atlanta, Georgia, on August 19-21, 2016 and this time let’s take appropriate action to deal with these horrendous times in which we live. www.iamoneofthemillion.com (At press time, five police officers in Dallas were killed and seven were injured by a Black man who was tired of and angry over Black people being killed by police. Pray for their families, too.) (Jim Clingman, founder of the Greater Cincinnati African American Chamber of Commerce can be reached through his website, blackonomics.com.)
A8
JULY 13-19, 2016
NATIONAL
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Latest police shootings inspire wave of celebrity activism by Sandy Cohen Associated Press Writer
LOS ANGELES (AP)—In the days after the shooting deaths of two Black men by police, celebrities are doing more than just expressing frustration. They’re demanding action, and in some cases, leading it. Beyonce called on her fans to contact their congressional representatives; T.I. marched with thousands to protest police brutality in Atlanta; and Snoop Dogg and The Game went to Los Angeles Police Department headquarters, where they addressed graduating cadets with 100 community members. LEADS MARCH—Snoop Dogg leads a march outside graduation ceremony for lat“This is how you make est class of Los Angeles Police recruits in Los Angeles, July 8. (AP Photo/Richard ADDRESSES CROWD—Los Angeles Police Chief Charlie Beck, left, listens as The moves,” Snoop said at Fri- Vogel) Game speaks at a news conference in Los Angeles, July 8. (AP Photo/Nick Ut) day’s event. “You make it happen. You get some dialogue, some understanding with the new recruits before they hit the streets, so that way they know we’re just like them and we trying to live and go home and get some understanding.” While the police-related killings of Blacks has drawn impassioned commentary from celebrities before, and some have aligned themselves with the Black Lives Matter movement, the killings of Alton Sterling in Louisiana and Philando Castile in Minnesota, within days of each other last week, sparked a new level of outrage and reaction, particularly from Black celebrities, calling for a movement to change. The killings of five police WORKING FOR PEACE—In this July 5, 1966 file photo, Tore Tallroth, Consul-Genofficers in Dallas by a lone eral for Sweden in New York City, right, presents Dr. Martin Luther King, left, with a STANDING AGAINST UNJUST WAR—In this May 10, 1967 file photo, Muhammad gunman motivated by racial $100,000 check for the civil rights movement as actor-activist Harry Belafonte looks Ali, former world heavyweight boxing champion, speaks at an anti-war rally at the University of Chicago in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charles Harrity, File) hatred of Whites heightened on in New York. (AP Photo/Jacob Harris, File) the tensions and calls for violence yet, you might not know why what the need for change. ner at the hands of police in New York City. stars who spoke out last week. Kevin Hart called on “celebrity happened in Minnesota and Louisiana was In a lengthy post on Instagram, New York Just last month, “Grey’s Anatomy” star Knicks star Carmelo Anthony called on his Jesse Williams just gave a passionate friends/entertainers/producers/writers/dir such a big deal, but...here’s Beyoncé sayfellow athletes to “step up and take speech at the BET Awards calling for unity ectors/athletes” to “take a day out of our ing, ‘This is a problem.’” schedules to simple talk & try to come up Awareness alone does not create change. charge.” against police brutality. “Go to your local officials, leaders, con“We know that police somehow manage to with a solution.” By joining together, he Action is required, he noted. “To turn talk into action, you have to feed gressman, assemblymen/assemblywoman deescalate, disarm and not kill White peo- wrote, “we can be heard in a tasteful way.” White stars have joined the conversation people with concrete steps, and what and demand change. There’s NO more sit- ple every day,” Williams said at the show. ting back and being afraid of tackling and BET Awards executive producer Stephen as well. In an impassioned Instagram post, makes these artists so special today is addressing political issues anymore,” he Hill said the speech energized celebrities rapper Macklemore called on the white they’re beginning to do that,” Hill contincommunity to get involved and work to end ued. “Jesse Williams and Talib Kweli and wrote. “We can’t worry about what en- and the Black community. dorsements we gonna lose or whose going “I believe that Jesse Williams’ was the racial discrimination, saying, “I can’t help John Legend...they’re connected, not just to to look at us crazy. I need your voices to be most amazing wake-up speech of the cen- but think...IF I was put in the exact same powerful, inspiring rhetoric, but they’re heard.” tury,” Hill said. “So for these actions to hap- situation that Alton was in, I’d be alive connected to powerful organizations and movements that are leading us to social But for real change to happen, the mo- pen the week after that speech, it in some today...because of the color of my skin.” A broad swath of stars discussing racism change.” mentum has to continue, said rapper and ways fueled the fire and allowed people to and police brutality can help shift social Banner said Black leaders, celebrities activist David Banner. speak their minds more.” “I’m so proud of my peers” for taking acSocial media makes it hard for stars to consciousness, said Marc Lamont Hill, who and others fighting for an end to police brualso hosts “VH1 Live” and authored the tality need to “stick with one case all the tion and speaking out, Banner said in an stay silent. interview Friday. “The thing that I hope, “If you’re going to tell us what you ate for new book “Nobody: Casualties of America’s way through until we’re able to get some though, is that out of this moment we stay breakfast; if you’re going to show us your War on the Vulnerable, from Ferguson to type of law, some type of justice, some type of follow-through.” energized and we move forward.” workout routine on Snapchat, you better Flint and Beyond.” “They create a heightened consciousness “But we never followed through with Celebrities have long played a significant tell me what you feel about those five cops role in social change, from Harry Belafonte getting killed,” said Morehouse College among fans,” he said. “If you’re in the Bey- Mike Brown. We never followed through marching for civil rights to Muhammad professor and BET News host Marc Lam- hive and you’re 14 years old and you know with Oscar Grant,” he said, referencing two Ali’s anti-war activism. LeBron James and ont Hill. “You better tell me what you feel all the choreography to ‘Formation’ and other high-profile cases of Black men killed other basketball stars made news in 2014 about those two men getting killed on you drink lemonade because she told you by police. “We are going to have to follow when they wore t-shirts reading “I can’t Tuesday and Wednesday. You owe us that.” to—you’re a Beyoncé fan—you might not through even when it’s not the hashtag breathe” to protest the death of Eric GarSocial media was the platform for many understand about police violence and state anymore.”
Friend or foe? Open-carry law poses challenge to police by Lisa Marie Pane Associated Press Writer
PARIS, Texas (AP)—Gun-rights activists, some of them wearing camouflage and military-style gear and openly toting rifles and handguns, marched alongside the hundreds of people who flocked to downtown Dallas last week to protest police shootings of Blacks. Their presence was part of the new legal landscape in Texas, which earlier this year allowed people to openly carry firearms in public. Moments later, when a sniper gunned down officers patrolling the peaceful march, killing five, the attack ignited panic and confusion. Who was shooting? Were the people with weapons friend or foe? It was the same nightmare scenario that some law enforcement officials predicted when Texas approved the opencarry proposal. Dallas Police Chief David Brown estimated that 20 to 30 open-carry activists attended the rally. He said some wore gas masks, bulletproof vests and fatigues. They ran when the shots rang out, but the presence of so many armed individuals at the scene of a sniper attack caused instant confusion. “Doesn’t make sense to us, but that’s their right in Texas,” Brown told CNN, adding: “For our officers, they were suspects. And I support that belief. Someone is shooting at you from a perched position, and people are running with AR15s and camo gear and gas masks and bulletproof vests. They are suspects until we eliminate that.” One man in the crowd, Mark Hughes, was carrying an AR-style firearm and wearing a camouflage T-shirt. In the early moments after the attack, police released a photo of Hughes describing him as a suspect. He was questioned and released, and authorities soon announced that the attack had been the work of a single gunman named Micah Johnson.
FIREARMS MANUFACTURER—Bill Wilson, owner of Wilson Combat, a firearms manufacturer based in Berryville, Arkansas, openly carries a firearm on Saturday, July 9, in Paris, Texas. (AP Photo/Lisa Marie Pane)
SECOND AMENDMENT ADVOCATE—A photo provided by Dallas police shows open-carry activist Mark Hughes at a rally against excessive use of force by police, Thursday, July 7, in Dallas. (Dallas police via AP)
In the aftermath, President Barack Obama criticized the open-carry law. Police, Obama said, “have a really difficult time in communities where they know guns are everywhere. And as I said before, they have a right to come home, and now they have very little margin of error in terms of making decisions. So if you care about the safety of our police officers, then you can’t set aside the gun issue and pretend that that’s irrelevant.” Forty-five states have laws that allow citizens to openly carry a firearm in public places. During debate over the open-carry issue, some people in Texas law enforcement expressed concerns, fearing that it would lead to panic, especially in active shooter situations. The state, which le-
galized concealed-carry firearms in the 1990s, now has more than 850,000 residents with licenses to carry. C.J. Grisham, the president and founder of Open Carry Texas, stood Saturday outside the Lamar County Sheriff’s Department in Paris with a small group of people, most of them with a handgun and spare magazines visible and strapped to a belt. They were there in part to protest the agency’s refusal to allow people to openly carry a firearm into the building, which is connected to a jail, and to talk about what issues are next on the frontier of gun rights. Grisham, who served in the military in Iraq and Afghanistan, travels around the state with a trailer in tow. Inside, he’s got T-shirts, stickers and pamphlets that
trumpet the group’s key messages. “We’re not the threat,” Grisham said. As he spoke, members of the group nodded their heads. They expressed concern that requiring people to carry concealed weapons is sometimes impractical. Texas weather can make it difficult to conceal a gun without wilting in the summer heat or to shed a coat in the winter. That puts them at risk of breaking the law by revealing they are carrying a weapon. “That’s what this is really about: being able to get comfortable and not become a criminal,” Grisham said. “If you boil it down, the only difference between open carry and concealed carry is a thin piece of fabric.” None of those who stood outside the sheriff’s department said they had been stopped by police. And they maintain they haven’t caused any panic among civilians worried when they see their firearm. Still, Grisham offers a practical suggestion for preventing alarm: Carry a long gun slung over your back with the muzzle pointed downward and don’t touch it. That way, “it’s hard to call it confrontational,” he said. On Sunday, Hughes was quizzed by his pastor about his decision to attend the protest with a gun. “What in the world were you thinking?” Bishop T.D. Jakes asked him during services at The Potter’s House, a megachurch with 30,000 members. The crowd of several hundred people laughed. “I’m just curious,” Jakes said, chuckling. Hughes said it was an opportunity to exercise his rights and make a statement, and he would do it again. “I understand and respect your right,” Jakes responded. “But I think the right is wrong.” Several in the audience shouted in agreement. (Associated Press Writer Christine Armario contributed to this report from Dallas.)
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concludes Jazz Workshop Trilogy B6
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LIFESTYLES JULY 13-19, 2016
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
marks its 200th birthday B2
AME Church
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Debbie Norrell
Lifestyles Report
Saves to read part II Here I am again with another “it saves to read” story. I’m in vacation planning mode and I’m excited to be going to Las Vegas. I haven’t been there in a long time. I don’t go just to gamble, I love the shows, the shopping and the beautiful hotels. I’ll be going on a Southwest Vacation and with that in mind I thought how smart it would be to pay for the vacation with a Southwest gift card. I run to my local Giant Eagle and buy hundreds of dollars of gift cards to cover the cost. I felt so proud, paying cash for the trip and getting fuel perks as well. I log in to pay for the trip and key in the numbers. They were rejected even though I picked the gift card payment option. I made a few phone calls and found that the gift cards can only be used for airfare not a Southwest vacation. My head is now ready to pop off there are only two seats left on the flight that I need to be on. Fortunately they allowed me to make a reservation and gave me until 6 p.m. that day to pay for it with a credit card. So what do I do with the gift cards that I now find are FINAL SALE? Head now pops off and lands on floor. I pick my head up and try to stay calm. I had to file a dispute with the grocery store and wait for the results. As of today I don’t have an answer about my money. By the way once you buy the gift card and remove it from the cardboard in the small print on the back it says that the card cannot be used for a Southwest Vacation nor can it be used for inflight “stuff.” Please Southwest I really like you as an airline but you need to put on the front of that gift card package “cannot be used for Southwest Vacations.” Now on to something more pleasant. If you read me and know me you know that I am an Amos and Andy fan. I recently got an email that I planned to delete but then I said this might be worth reading. It was from a company that sells the whole series of Amos and Andy episodes on DVD. I looked at the site, read some reviews and it seemed safe. I just got an email that the package has been shipped. I have been holding on to my Amos and Andy on VHS for years, now I can watch them all whenever I want. I would like to give a big shout out to my friend Margaret Washington, she stopped me the other day in the grocery store and told me if I was still looking for the Bill Cosby series that I could buy them at Dorsey’s on Frankstown Avenue. Cosby and Amos and Andy that is a double yippee. So readers, read the fine print and read before you delete. (Email the columnist at debbienorrell@aol.com)
CELEBRATING SUCCESS—Linda Bryant, Monica Lamar, Bridgette Cofield and Annetta Walker
PROUD MOTHERS WITH DAUGHTERS—Brea Dixon, Tonya Dixon, Ashley Bridges and Simquita Bridges
ICE & AKA Presents a Jazz Scholarship Brunch by Debbie Norrell Lifestyles Editor
Pittsburgh is known for jazz music and using that great jazz music to celebrate any and every occa-
sion. On June 11, at the LeMont Restaurant the Ivy Charitable Endowment, Inc. and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. presented their first Jazz Scholarship Brunch.
ENJOYING A BEAUTIFUL AFTERNOON—Evelyn McMullenStephens, Tamara Sanders-Woods and Anita Edwards
GREAT PERFORMANCE—Anita Levels (Photos by Debbie Norrell
Guests enjoyed a fabulous brunch and the sweet sounds of Anita Levels and The Levels Group. Event chairperson, Annetta Walker and the ICE Fundraising Committee combined efforts for this inaugural event. Scholarships were presented to achievers who will attend a historically Black college or university in the fall. The 2016 recipients, both receiving $1,500 included Brea Dixon a graduate of Penn Hills High School. Dixon will attend Spelman College and Ashley Bridges a Quaker Valley High School graduate heading to North Carolina State University. The mothers of both young ladies beamed with pride as their daughters received their scholarships. A non-traditional scholarship/achievement award was presented to Ruthie Rea, Pittsburgh Arsenal K-5 Principal. Rea is pursuing a doctorate degree at the University of Pittsburgh. She received $2,000. ICE was founded 20 years ago and is responsible for enrichment programs that include the Pearl Academy and the Cultured Pearls Cotillion. The programs are designed to empower and strengthen young women.
PRETTY IN PINK—Peggy Harris and Dara Ware Allen
LOVELY AKA’s—Darlene Powell, Carol Brackett, Gail Edwards and Paula Davis
WE LOVE THIS VIEW—Charma Dudley, Sharon Brentley, Natalie Tyler, Geil Wesley-Williams and Cheryl Banks
JAZZY LADIES—Tamara Whiting and Teona Williams
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RELIGION
JULY 13-19, 2016
Praise & Worship ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CATHOLIC CHURCH Crawford & Centre Ave. Pgh., PA 15219 412-281-3141 Mass Sunday 9:00 A.M. & 11:00 A.M. Sunday (Gospel Choir Mass) 11:00 A.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
SIXTH MOUNT ZION BAPTIST CHURCH 6556 Shetland Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206 (412) 441-7839 Church School Worship Service Wednesday Night Bible Study
9:00 a.m. 10:15 a.m. 6:00 p.m.
East Liberty Presbyterian Church Rev. Dr. Randy Bush, Senior Pastor 412-441-3800 116 S. Highland Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206
www.cathedralofhope.com
Summer Worship........10 a.m.
Join our growing Praise and Worship Church Community For rate information, call 412481-8302, ext. 128. We are looking to feature our positive youth in the church communities. You can e-mail, fax or mail their bios and
photo to: New Pittsburgh Courier 315 E. Carson St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Fax: 412-481-1360 email: egaines@newpittsburghcourier.com
AME Church marks its 200th birthday by Errin Hanes Whack
Church Circuit Anniversary
JULY 14-17—Central Baptist Church in the Hill District will be celebrating their 125th anniversary. On Saturday July 16th there will be a Gospel Fest hosted by the Central Baptist Church Choir. The schedule for Saturday is as follows: 1 p.m. Parrish Davenport & Friends, 2 p.m. Tim Woodruff & Cross Currents, 4 p.m. CBC Music Department, 5 p.m. LINE DANCING, 6 p.m. Sons of Thunder, 7 p.m. Tubby Daniels
Associated Press
PHILADELPHIA (AP)— The African Methodist Episcopal Church, founded by a freed slave who created a new religion rather than endure racism from White worshippers, is marking its bicentennial in its birthplace of Philadelphia. As many as 30,000 people are estimated to be in the city for the AME Church’s general conference, which started July 6 and runs to July 13. Presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton stopped by the conference Friday, courting the Black voting bloc that will be key to her success in November. From its roots more than 200 years ago, the African Methodist Episcopal Church has been embedded in the struggle for freedom and equality, and draws on its rich past to remain a powerful political and religious force in American culture. “There’s a recognition that this is a denomination that represents African American excellence, independence and autonomy,’’ said AME historian Christina Dickerson Cousin. “The
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Women’s Weekend
LEADING THE WAY—A sculpture depicting Bishop Richard Allen stands in front of Mother Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Philadelphia. The church marks its 200th anniversary in the city where it was founded by a former slave. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) AME Church is pretty much as old as the country itself. What other African-American institution can say that?’’ Today, the AME Church boasts more than 2.5 million members, with 6,200 congregations in 39 countries. It began with a hand-
ful of free Backs determined to start their own church, rather than endure the indignities of racism. Richard Allen was born into slavery in Philadelphia in 1760 before buying his freedom in Delaware before he was 20 years old. He returned to the city in the
1780s and became a minister. After White leaders at a Methodist church attempted to oust Allen and several other Black worshippers from a service during prayer, the group left the church and formed what would eventually become Bethel AME in 1816. Known as Mother Bethel because of its history, the church was a stop on the Underground Railroad, on which Harriet Tubman led hundreds of enslaved Blacks to freedom. After the Civil War, the AME Church founded several historically Black colleges, including Morris Brown College in Atlanta, Paul Quinn College in Dallas and Wilberforce University in Ohio. The AME Church was also central to the civil rights movement, serving as a meeting place and rallying point for foot soldiers. Presidents, first ladies and presidential candidates have frequented AME churches and conferences. Last year, President Barack Obama spoke at Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston after nine of its worshippers were killed during their regular Wednesday night Bible study meeting by a White gunman who specifically targeted the church for its history of rebellion and independence. Its pastor, the Rev. Clementa Pinckney, was also a state legislator. “That shooting was probably a reminder to the church, especially, that we haven’t come as far as we would’ve liked on the issue of race,’’ said University of Pennsylvania religious studies professor Anthea Butler. “Part of the creation of the AME Church was about racism to begin with. It shows the connection between the political and the social, but that’s part of the history.’’ The church stands today as an example for social justice leadership, said the Rev. Mark Tyler, Mother Bethel’s current pastor. “Richard Allen was ‘Black Lives Matter’ before there was ‘Black Lives Matter,’’’ Tyler said, referring to the movement launched in recent years around the police shootings of largely unarmed Black men and boys. “As opposed to simply starting a church, they began a movement. It’s not just about worship, it’s about educational opportunity, economic empowerment and raising the community. Self-determination is so critical to our identity.’’
JULY 15-17—Please join Pastor Lola Thorpe and Northside Institutional C.O.G.I.C. WOVEN Women’s Ministry in our Woman’s Weekend 2016 “Rejoicing, Repairing & Reinforcing our Chain” 302 W. North Avenue, Pittsburgh. July 15 Opening Service 7 p.m., guest speaker, Pastor Keith Edmonds of K & K Mime. July 16 Free Lunch & Learn; 10 a.m., Guest Speaker, Rev. Eleanor Williams from On the Wall Ministries. July 17 Annual Women’s Day 11 a.m., guest speaker Evangelist Shirley Jordan from Mansfield Ohio.
Miracle Ministries Open House
JULY 16—The Miracle Ministries in Beaver Valley College of Theology, a satellite extension of North Carolina College of Theology in Carolina Beach, NC announces its annual Open House and Registration . Open House and Registration for the 2016 -2017 school year will be on Saturday, July 17 from 12 noon to 3 p.m. at the Miracle School of Ministry, 702 Davis St, Aliquippa, Pa. 15001. Classes will start on Thursday, Sept. 8 from 7 -9 p.m. All attendees must bring the $60 non-refundable application fee and a recent picture. For more information call 724-3783224.
Praise by the Sea
JULY 17—Shirley Caesar, Hezekiah Walker, Marvin Sapp, Byron Cage, Kim Burrell, Tye Tribett and others at the Amphitheater at Coney Island Boardwalk, West 21st St. and Surf. For more information call 718282-8041, 1-800-745-3000 or Ticketmaster.com
Family & Friends Day
JULY 24—St. Mark AME Church, 1409 Montier St. , Wilkinsburg, Trustee Board, Shoe Size Rally. Donate $1 per inch in shoe size. June Ridley, chairperson, Jeffrey Morgan, co-chair.
Appreciation Service
JULY 30—Macedonia Baptist Church in Duquesne will host an appreciation service in honor of Jean Bryant at 5 p.m. This event is being organized by former Ms. Black Teen committee and volunteer members. Expected to attend are former contestant, associates, colleagues, family and friends of Mrs. Bryant. this event is a surprise to her. Contact info: Kevin Smith 412-6088350 or Nichole Smith at: nikki.4christ.ns@gmail.com (All announcements, events and press releases must be sent 2 weeks in advance with contact phone number and email address to newsroom@ newpittsburghcourier.com.)
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CELEBRATION OF LIFE—Black Tie Event a production of BMP Promotions was held on June 17 at the Sheraton, Station Square as a part of the month long Juneteenth celebration. The event honored five men and five women. A special treat was the attendance of a cast of re-enactment actors form the civil war era. Above a beautiful addition to the evening was the attendance of a group of civil war CIVIL WAR ERA ATTIRE—Civil war era re-enactors attend the Celebration of Life Award and Dinner. (Photos by Gail Manker) re-enactors to the Celebration of LIfe Dinner and awards.
Juneteenth Celebration of Life: Black Tie Event
HONOREE CONNIE PARKER President Pgh NAACP
HONOREE KATIE JOHNSON Civil Rights Activist
HONOREE MAURITA BRYANT Retired Police Asst. Chief
HONOREE DORIS CARSON WILLIAMS President, CEO AA Chamber
HONOREE MICHELL RICE CEO of Rice Enterprises
HONOREE COL PAUL PATTON Retired Col.
HONOREE JOHN FORD Historian
HONOREE ED GAINEY Pa. State Representative
HONOREE REV. DR. STEVEN JACKSON Bethel AME Church
HONOREE REV. JOHNNY MONROE Grace Memorial Presbyterian Church
CIVIL WAR CAST—Vivica Fox (center) and members of the cast of Civil war era re-enactors.
ACTRESS VIVICA FOX was the emcee and guest of honor at the Celebration of Life dinner held at the Sheraton Hotel, Station Square.
CIVIL WAR SOLDIERS—Vivica A. Fox with the civil war era Black soldiers.
ENJOYING THE EVENING—Honorees Doris Carson Williams and Michell Rice enjoy the evening with film star Vivica A. Fox.
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HEALTH
Take charge of your health today. Be informed. Be involved. Medical marijuana is not ‘weed’… What new law means from a health standpoint Medical Marijuana ESTHER BUSH
This month the “Take Charge of Your Health Today” page focuses on the new Pennsylvania legislation on medical marijuana. Jennifer Jones, MPH, community engagement coordinator for the University of Pittsburgh Clinical and Translational Science Institute, and Esther L. Bush, president and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh, discussed this topic. JJ: Hello, Ms. Bush. This monthʼs topic is one that has been a topic of much current debate, especially here in Pennsylvania. For those reading this who may not know, Pennsylvania recently was the 24th state to legalize the use of medical marijuana. EB: Thatʼs correct, Jennifer. I think itʼs important that our health page continues to address these local and national health issues. I realize that everyone has his or her own opinion on this new state law. Dr. Zemaitis, who discusses the topic in the overview, does a great job of giving us the details of what this new law means from a health standpoint. He talks about the law and the drug from a factual viewpoint. The point that I want to highlight is that when we talk about medical marijuana, weʼre not talking about recreational marijuana usage. There is a difference. I cannot stress that enough. We need to remember that, under current federal law, possession is a federal crime and could be charged as a felony, depending on the circumstances. JJ: Youʼre right. Each month, our health page provides the community with scientific and evidence-based information on the chosen topic. Medical marijuana is a sensitive topic. Whatʼs challenging is that thereʼs not a lot of research to point us in the direction of whether or not medical marijuana use is a good thing. EB: And why is that, Jennifer? Youʼre very well-informed about research. JJ: Well, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved the marijuana plant as a drug. That makes it difficult for researchers to conduct rigorous, large-scale clinical trials. To understand if a drug is safe and effective, supporting data and evidence need to show that. California—the first state to legalize medical marijuana in 1996—is leading the nation in research in this area. As Dr. Zemaitis mentions, Pennsylvania will need to begin to study the effects of this new law. EB: Another part of this topic I want to address is the general social context around marijuana usage. This creates an even bigger debate, but I donʼt want to shy away from it. Iʼm not the expert. I asked you to talk with Councilman Daniel Lavelle about his work on marijuana decriminalization in our city. I consider Councilman Lavelle to be a close colleague of mine. I respect and applaud his efforts. He understands the social and political parts of recreational marijuana and presents them with real local statistics. Yes, medical marijuana and recreational marijuana are two different things. However, my comment on that is that we need to work together and not be afraid of discussing this critical issue. Introducing medical marijuana laws allows a broader discussion of the drug. I donʼt know what this means for us going forward, but Iʼm glad that people are working on this issue. JJ: Your insights are always so valuable. Thank you again for your time, Ms. Bush. I always enjoy hearing your perspective on our health topics. For more information or with questions, readers can e-mail partners@hs.pitt.edu.
CLONE PLANTS—In this Oct. 16, 2013 photo, marijuana clone plants that are used to grow medical marijuana are displayed under a light at a medical marijuana cooperative in Seattle. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren, File) In April 2016, medical marijuana became legal in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. This is good news for many people for whom using medical marijuana may help ease the effects of certain diseases. But many people have questions about its use. Is marijuana now legal? How do people get medical marijuana? Have researchers studied its effects on people? First, medical marijuana comes from the whole, unprocessed marijuana plant and its extracts. It is used to treat a disease or symptom. Pennsylvania law indicates that only people with serious medical conditions can be apMICHAEL A. ZEMAITIS, PHD proved to use medical marijuana. The law lists the approved conditions, which include amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrigʼs disease), cancer, Crohnʼs disease, epilepsy, glaucoma, HIV (human immunodeficiency virus)/AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome), posttraumatic stress disorder and sickle cell disease. In general, medical marijuana products tend to have higher concentrations of the chemical cannabadiol and lower concentrations of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) than recreational products. Some evidence suggests that cannabadiol is the medically effective compound in cannabis. THC is the psychoactive component that produces euphoria or a “high.” Medical marijuana is not “weed” that people smoke for recreational drug use. Marijuana that is smoked or used for nonmedical reasons is not legal in Pennsylvania. It also has been illegal in Pennsylvania for a health care provider to write a prescription for medical marijuana. To explain this a bit, some background on drug classification is important. In 1970, the United States grouped drugs according to their acceptable medical use and their potential for abuse or dependency, according to Michael A. Zemaitis, PhD, professor of pharmaceutical sciences at the University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy. Class 1 drugs have the highest potential for abuse and dependence. They have no accepted medical
use. Marijuana is a class 1 drug. It is an illegal substance in the United States. Because it is illegal under federal law, health care providers cannot prescribe it. So, how can medical marijuana be legal in Pennsylvania? Put simply, the federal government has not required states to enforce federal laws. Pennsylvania and 24 other states have made their own laws with regard to the medical use of marijuana; however, it is still a highly controlled and regulated drug. People cannot go to their local pharmacy and fill a prescription for medical marijuana. Health care providers can only recommend its use to their patients. The process to get medical mari-
is still being organized. It is expected to take between 18-24 months for people to be able to use the program. Because marijuana is an illegal drug, it cannot be shipped across state lines. “Medical marijuana will have to be grown in the Commonwealth,” says Dr. Zemaitis. “The marijuana will have to be made into product in the state. Growers and dispensers will have to be licensed and regulated by Pennsylvania.” In addition to getting the Medical Marijuana Program running, a lot more research has to be done on the drug and its effects on people. “Because marijuana is classified as an illegal drug, it has been difficult to do research on it,”
BILL SIGNING—Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolfe speaks at a ceremony where he signed the medical marijuana bill known as Senate Bill 3 into law on Sunday, April 17, 2016, in Harrisburg, Pa. as State Rep. Ed Gainey (rear left) looks on. (Daniel Zampogna/PennLive.com via AP) juana involves: Being in the care of a physician registered with the Pennsylvania Department of Health (PA DOH). If physicians feel that medical marijuana can help ease pain or the effects of certain diseases, they will sign a certification that patients have a serious medical condition. Patients then apply for a medical card with the PA DOH. If the PA DOH approves the medical card, patients can then purchase medical marijuana from a licensed dispensary. Pennsylvaniaʼs Medical Marijuana Program
says Dr. Zemaitis. “The Food and Drug Administration has not approved the marijuana plant yet. That means it has to go through rigorous clinical trials to prove itʼs effective and safe enough for people to use. Thereʼs some evidence that medical marijuana use is helpful, especially in children with severe seizure disorders. But we need more solid scientific studies to determine its effects on the body and what it does to the developing brain.” As with any medication, talking with a health care provider about whether medical marijuana would be helpful is important.
Lavelle works to decriminalize marijuana use in city
Marijuana usage, whether medical or recreational, is a controversial topic that receives both national and local attention from health care providers, policy makers and the general community. Councilman R. Daniel Lavelle, District 6, is one of those policy makers. Councilman Lavelle approaches the marijuana issue from a social justice viewpoint. A report commissioned from Carnegie Mellon University and published in December 2015 discusses the historical, medical and social aspects of marijuana used for nonmedical reasons. Data from the report noted that racial minorities in the City of Pittsburgh, predominantly Black males, are charged with minor possessory offenses five times more often than their White counterparts, despite similar rates of usage. In 2014, 70 percent of those arrested for marijuana possession in Pittsburgh were Black. According to Councilman Lavelle, this is a concern because many of those charged with a felony offense of cannabis possession have their lives ruined. The social effect is damaging. People charged could lose their jobs or their housing vouchers. The report goes on to suggest that marijuana decriminalization is an “ethical framework for principles of harm reduction and fairness.” In December 2015, Councilman Lavelle
R. DANIEL LAVELLE
sponsored an ordinance providing the assessment of a civil fine for small amounts of marijuana (30 grams or less), under certain terms and conditions. Possession of marijuana is a
federal crime. This felony charge would go on peopleʼs permanent records. They would also receive a $500 fine and could spend time in jail. This new amendment would give police officers another option when making a marijuana possession charge for small amounts. It could now be considered a civil offense, similar to a speeding ticket, with no jail time and a lower fine of $25. While City of Pittsburgh cannot override state law, this is another option. Councilman Lavelle is optimistic that this new ordinance could have positive outcomes for the community. On a state level, it is projected that the amendment introduced by Councilman Lavelle could save the city and court system $1 million. Because this amendment is so new, no data are available yet. However, it is something that Councilman Lavelle is working on. He hopes this amendment will begin to change perspectives and benefit the relationships between the police and the African American community in Pittsburgh. More information on Councilman Lavelleʼs legislation can be found at www.pittsburghpa.gov/district6/legislation. The full commission report can be found at www.cmu.edu/hss/ehpp/documents/ 2015-MarijuanaDecriminalization.pdf.
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Cover To Cover
‘We Are Charleston’
Fortune concludes Jazz Workshop Trilogy
by Terri Schlichenmeyer For New Pittsburgh Courier
The Word is what you crave. It’s where you find your comfort, strength, the peace you need to get through the day. Reading it is like hearing God’s voice; studying it is feeling His power, and in the new book “We Are Charleston” by Herb Frazier, Bernard Edward Powers Jr., PhD, and Marjory Wentworth, knowing it could mean offering forgiveness. There are, say the authors, two Charlestons in South Carolina. Tourists see lovely horsedrawn carriages, fine dining, and historic homes but there’s a flip-side Charleston, too: it’s where slavery began, where Jim Crow laws once ruled, and where racism is still an issue. That’s where Mother Emanuel AME Church has stood for generations, welcoming people of faith. Wednesdays are Bible study nights at Mother Emanuel, although on June
JAZZ AT ITS BEST—Howard Alexander on the keys, Christopher Dean Sullivan on the bass, Sonny Fortune on the sax and Rodger Humphries on the drums
17, 2015, that was pushed back a bit for a business meeting. By 8 o’clock, however, “a dozen of the most devout parishioners” were ready for the Word of God. Exactly 16 minutes later, SONNY FORTUNE “a skinny young white man” entered the door and joined the group, sitting next to the church’s pastor; the young man was a stranger there, but they welcomed him just the same. And after prayerful fellowship and Bible study, “as eyes were closed and heads were bowed” for a final benediction, he took out a gun and started shooting. But why did Dylann Roof scream racial sentiments, reload his gun five times, and kill nine strangers in a house of God? The answer, say the authors, lies in the past, aboard slave ships, on wharfs where people were once sold, and on a flag. It goes back some 200 years, to another time when that church was a “target of hate.” And yes, it lies in the story of a “young man who purchased a weapon to kill human beings.” But surprisingly, what resulted from that night more THE LATIN CREW—Noel Quintana and his Latin Crew performing on stage. than a year ago wasn’t just a history lesson. It wasn’t merely grief, either. What happened in the days after that night was forgiveness, over and over and over… There is, of course, more to this story than just what happened in June 2015 in South Carolina—and that’s where I struggled with “We Are Charleston.” There’s too much inside this book, and it veers too much off-course. I see where the authors are trying to take readers: the book’s open and ending are about the shooting and aftermath, while the middle part consists of African American history and that of the AME church, with an attempt to tie them together. These subjects are very interesting, but the tie here is too broad and too deep; I’d have been happier with two different books. (“We Are Charleston” by Herb Frazier, Bernard Edward Powers Jr., PhD, and Marjory Wentworth, c.2016, Thomas Nelson, $24.99/$31 Canada, 256 pages.)
NOEL QUINTANA
The Harold Young Sr., Jazz Workshop Inc. 2nd Annual Trilogy Concerts Series for the 2016 Spring Season were held over the past three months. The final concert featured jazz legend Sonny Fortune, who was joined by critically acclaimed bassist Christopher Dean Sullivan, the incomparable drummer Roger Humphries, and the formidable pianist/keyboardist Howard Alexander. All concerts were held in the Concert Hall of the Pittsburgh Carnegie Library in Homewood, 7101 Hamilton Ave. The previous concert in May featured Latin Music Concert featuring the Latin style of Noel Quintana and his Latin Crew. Jon Faddis was joined by alto sensation Richie Cole, critically acclaimed bassist Christopher Dean Sullivan, incomparable drummer Roger Humphries, and formidable pianist/keyboardist GETTING IT STARTED—The artists of the first Jazz Workshop from left are sax player Richie Cole, Pianist Howard Alexander, bass player Howard Alexander opened Christopher Dean Sullivan, drummer Rodger Humphries and Trumpet player Jon Faddis. (Photos by J. L. Martello) the three month trilogy.
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ARTS & CULTURE
‘Phenomenal Open Mic’ spotlights talent by Paige Mitchell For New Pittsburgh Courier
A brilliant team that included, Violet Scott, founder and co-owner of Jade Earth Events, and Fred “FU” Underwood and Jaylee Lemon of ReFined Culture premiered an event called, “Phenomenal Open Mic”. “It was a beautiful thing
connecting with both teams. I will honestly say I am honored to even have them ask me to be apart of the event,” Underwood said. “Being that I had so much on my plate leading to the event they pulled their weight and mine too. Jade Earth made sure everything was done and even when I admitted that I could not get
something done, they were understanding.” The Phenomenal Open Mic event took place at the Sherwood Event Center June 17. More than 70 people attended to see all the different performances and activities. “I would love to be privileged enough to work with them again. Jaylee Lemon was amazing the way he got the runway models ready in such little time. Most of the models he met the same day and got them in great shape to walk like they had been walking for years,” Underwood said. “We reached out to the artist through the flyer in general but relationships that grow from the artist is what helped bring everything together. Some artists in the show we already had been familiar with so it made it rather easy to communicate with them. Since it was an open mic the event is a beautiful time to let some of your stage fright bugs out,” Underwood said. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Neu World Charities. The event was sponsored by Neu World Charities, and hosted by Fred “FU” Underwood. “I enjoyed combining with such a dynamic team. Fred and Jade are so great to work with, and the event was a testiment to how well we work together,” Lemon said.
Canvas of Words Poetry Series showcases youth
by Paige Mitchell
For New Pittsburgh Courier
Fred “FU” Underwood, Family, and the Kelly Strayhorn Theatre recently presented, "Canvas of Words'" Poetry Series Pt. 1. The event took place at June 25, at 8 pm. “We wanted to fuse art and popular culture to tell a story. We believe that no matter how young, old, Black, White, conscious, or lack thereof, that you can use a word to heal a heart. The Canvas of Words Poetry Series focuses on just that—except with a twist. People love poetry, and they love art. We just want to give the people what they want,” Fred FU Underwood said. Auditions were held to select the poets that particioated in the event. The event consisted of giving the spotlight to poets and artists throughout the city, providing them with the opportunity to show their artistic talent. One by one, the talent took the stage to dispay their artistry. “We host auditions. It's surreal because people reach out to me before I can even get the chance to advertise an audition date. We hand select each artist for each show though. He
MODELS
July Nelly with symphony
JULY 14—Grammy-award winning rapper and songwriter Nelly will join the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra for A Night of Symphonic Hip Hop at Heinz Hall on July 14 at 7:30 p.m. Under the direction of Assistant Conductor Francesco Lecce-Chong, Nelly and the Pittsburgh Symphony will perform a tail feather-shaking concert with a symphonic twist. Nelly, who is known for hit songs such as “Country Grammar” and “Dilemma,” will bring the crowd in Heinz Hall to its feet during a night of high intensity music. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m..Tickets, ranging in price from $39 to $139, can be purchased by calling the Heinz Hall box office at 412-3924900 or pittsburghsymphony.org/ summer.
Childrens Museum
JULY 16–31—Meet and Greet Daniel Tiger, Thursdays and Sundays, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Bring your camera and join us for a special meet and greet with Daniel! Sessions: 11-11:25 a.m., 12-12:25 p.m. or 1-1:25 p.m.
Solar Concert Series 2016
Enjoy free live music outside in the sunshine at Buhl Community Park at Allegheny Square. Bring your lunch and enjoy family-friendly concerts on a solar-powered sound system Wednesdays at 12:15 p.m. in July and August. This year's lineup and links where you can learn more about each artist/band: July 20–City Dwelling Nature Seekers–City Dwelling Nature Seekers is a folk/rock band that has been performing locally and touring for the past 8 years. July 27–Meeting of Important People Acoustic!–Pittsburgh-based rock and roll band with a new album called Troika
Soldier & Sailors
July 22—For One Night Only, 6 to 8 p.m. $5 admission. Escape to paradise. We are rolling back time to the Hawaiian Territories during the summer of 1941, when Friday night meant canteen dances, umbrella drinks, and tropical treats!-
Experience the sights, sounds, and sips of Hawaii. Visit our "virtual beach." Enjoy a dance under palm trees or relax as you gaze at ocean waves! Guests receive a free lei! Cool down with an Aloha Punch cocktail or "grown-up" shaved ice for purchase at cash bars. All the Best Catering will be onsite with Hawaiian-inspired selections for cash purchase only. Steel City Ukuleles will set the tone for a steamy tropical night. Reenactors in authentic WWII US Navy and US Army uniforms will bring 1941 alive! Docents will be available through the museum to discuss various exhibits! View exclusive, authentic artifacts on display for one night only! Must be 21.
Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra
JULY 21—The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra opens a twonight stand of symphonic rock concerts with the music of quintessential American rock band, the Eagles, at Heinz Hall on July 21 at 7:30 p.m. The Eagles had five number-one singles, six Grammy Awards, five American Music Awards and six number one albums, making them one of the most successful musical acts of the 1970s. Guest conductor Brent Havens (last seen in The Music of Led Zeppelin earlier this year) returns to Pittsburgh to lead vocalists Terry Brock, John Hines and Glenn DeLaune and the Pittsburgh Symphony in a live concert featuring songs like “Take It Easy,” “Lyin’ Eyes,” “Desperado,” “Hotel California” and more.The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 21. Tickets, ranging in price from $25 to $60, can be purchased by calling the Heinz Hall box office at 412-392-4900 or visiting pittsburghsymphony. org/summer.
MCG Jazz's
August 7, at 7:30 p.m., Lee Ritenour performs at Hartwood Acres. The show is free and open to the public! Stop by and say hello to the MCG Jazz staff and enter the raffle before you enjoy the shows.
JULY 13-19, 2016
FRED UNDERWOOD or she has to be the perfect ingredient to complete the meal,” Underwood said. Many came out to support the event. Event attendee Teevou Goodwin said, “I was surprised by how talented the poets were. I was so impressed, they are so talented. I enjoyed it.” Underwood said, “What was your favorite most memorable moment of the evening? I don't think I can decide on a favorite moment. From the second those doors opened until they closed, I lived in the moment.”
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JULY 13-19, 2016
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Juneteenth celebrations honor Underground Railroad
AS A PART OF THE MONTH LONG Juneteenth celebration Black vendors and businesses throughout the city put up shops in Market Square selling their wares in honor of the Underground Railroad which went through Pittsburgh during the slavery era. Above: Nickeia Mason and Jazari Mason from Lawrenceville and owners of Adinkra Gear sell African goods. (Photos by J.L. Martello)
SUBMISSION DEADLINE: JULY 15, 2016
COOKIES ANYONE?—The owners of Glenn’s Cookies from left: Glenn Williams, Kevin Johnson, and Harry Johnson selling cookies
GOOD GIRLS—The workers of Good Girls taste treats.
ORGANIZERS—From left: DJ Tee Jay, Margo Doss, B. Marshall, and Charlotte Doss.
AFRICAN GOODS—Iyanna Bey and Jean Feisor Bey owners of Bey’s Temple selling African products.
New Pittsburgh Courier
Starbucks to increase base pay of workers C3
Overtime
NEW YORK (AP)—Starbucks is boosting the base pay of all employees and store managers at U.S. company-run stores by 5 percent or more. In a letter sent to workers Monday, CEO Howard Schultz said that the amount of the raise—which will occur in October—will be determined by geographic and market factors. Starbucks doesn’t disclose specifics on starting salaries for employees, saying it’s determined on a market by market basis. Starbucks has approximately 7,600 company-run stores across the country. Pay for entry-level jobs has become a hot political topic ahead of the presidential election. Over the weekend a draft of the Democratic Party’s policy positions was being pieced together. It includes a call for a $15 federal minimum wage over time. Republican Donald Trump favors leaving the wage decision to the states. Tension over pay has been rising for major U.S. corporations that employ thousands of entry-level workers. Workers at McDonald’s Corp. have picketed across the country outside of restaurants for starting pay of $15 an hour. Last month Macy’s Inc. struck a tentative deal with some of its workers, in which an employee union negotiated higher wages and more affordable health care. And as with other companies, Starbucks is facing increasing pressure to make schedules for their workers more predictable and reliable. Last month, a Starbucks employee in southern California launched a petition on Coworker.org, saying the coffee chain was cutting work hours to save on labor costs. The petition said employees are finding it nearly impossible to secure more than 25 hours a week, and that the labor cuts were hurting morale and damaging customer service. Jaime Prater, who launched the petition, said that he spoke with Schultz by phone, who told him the company needed to make it right. In his letter to workers on Monday, Schultz said that Starbucks will work with employees to make sure that they have the hours they need. Schultz said the company was committed to helping workers meet their specific scheduling needs, especially when it comes to ensuring benefits eligibility. Starbucks Corp. also said that it’s doubling the annual award for its stock program for hourly workers with two years of continuous employment. The Seattle company is also implementing “go shop’’ employee health care coverage starting next week, allowing them to pick and choose from a number of options. (Candice Choi and Michelle Chapman contributed to this report.)
BUSINESS JULY 13-19, 2016
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
Find what you need from jobs to cars to housing C4, C5
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‘I am my customer’ Website based business simplifies the shopping experience for women by Diane I. Daniels For New Pittsburgh Courier
One reason most people go into business is to fulfill a need. When founder and CEO Chanell M. Vick started Timeline in 2014 she was responding to needs of plus size women. “I am my customer,” she says. Being a plus size person all her life, she recalls the difficulty in finding clothing fashionable, age appropriate, of good quality or reasonably priced. Timeline, with the slogan; timeless fashions for today’s woman is the answer for women size 14 and up even though she says authorities within the industry consider size 8 the standard and to the runway industry standards are size 10. Specializing in vintage inspired clothing, she says the objective of her luxury lifestyle clothing brands is to lead the plus size world to a fashionable lifestyle by incorporating femininity, versatility, class and eloquence into every piece of clothing. “Timeline is about women empowerment, supporting self at all times and supporting one another. At Timeline, we thrive on the idea of living a fashionable lifestyle rather than just wearing clothes. We want each of our customers to feel empowered when they wear our clothing and allow each personality to flourish through individual style.” Vick, hailing from Jersey can’t remember when she didn’t PREPARING FOR THE SALE—Founder and CEO of Timeline, an online retail site for plus size women, Chanell have a passion for fashion. Con- M. Vick prepares to mail to a satisfied customer. sidering it bonding time between she and her mother when she was a child she recalls how her mother derstanding of the market,” expressed Vick. She also was made shopping fun and an adventure while keeping her stylish. She has a counter manager for Carol’s Daughter Natural Hair worked in retail since the age of 16 and to strengthen her knowledge Care Products at Macy’s. within the field, Vick obtained her degree in fashion merchandising and Timeline, existing as an online store, management from the Berkley College School of Business in Woodland www.fashionsbytimeline.com, Vick considers the business Park, N.J. Upon graduation she worked at Torrid Fashions in New Jer- an up and coming plus size retail company that works sey and Lane Bryant in Monroeville both plus size women establish- with different venders and designers. Shavonne Dorsey ments. based in Texas is one designer she partners with. Sharing “While working at those stores I realized that other women had the SEE CUSTOMER C2 same problems I had while trying to find clothing and I gained an un-
Consumer borrowing increases jumped again in May by Martin Crutsinger AP Economics Writer
WASHINGTON (AP)—Consumers increased their borrowing in May with use of credit cards and the category that covers student and auto loans both showing gains. The Federal Reserve reported Friday that total borrowing increased by $18.6 billion in May, up from a gain of $13.4 billion in April. It was the largest since a surge of
$29.4 billion in March, which had been the biggest monthly increase on record. Borrowing in the auto and student loan category climbed $16.2 billion. Borrowing in the category that covers credit cards rose $2.4 billion. The May gain pushed total consumer credit to a record of $3.62 trillion. Consumer spending, which accounts for 70 percent of economic activity, is expected to accelerate in the current
April-June period, helping boost the overall economy. Economic growth, as measured by the gross domestic product, slowed to a barely perceptible annual growth rate of 1.1 percent in the January-March quarter, in part because consumer spending slowed. Many economists are forecasting that second quarter growth will accelerate to a rate around 2.5 percent. One reason for optimism is a
belief that employment growth, which slowed this spring, will accelerate in the coming months. The said in a separate report Friday that employers added 287,000 jobs in June, a big improvement from the tiny gain of 11,000 jobs in May. The Fed’s monthly report on consumer borrowing does not cover home mortgages or any other loans secured by real estate such as home equity loans.
If payday loans go away, what replaces them? by Ken Sweet AP Business Writer
NEW YORK (AP)—The lenders who advance poor people money on their paychecks charge exorbitant interest rates that often snare the most vulnerable customers in a cycle of debt, the industry’s critics have long said. Yet even consumer advocates who loathe the industry admit it fulfills a need: Providing small amounts of cash quickly to people who can’t qualify for credit cards or a bank loan. Roughly 12 million Americans take out a payday loan each year, spending more than $7 billion, according to the Pew Charitable Trusts. But with proposed new regulations from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau predicted to cut deeply into the industry, experts and consumer advocates are trying to figure out what will replace it. The traditional payday loan model works like this. A customer will borrow money, often at a retail payday loan store, where the borrower provides a post-dated check or gives written authorization for the lender to debit their checking account on a certain date, usually 14 to 30 days from the date the loan was taken out. Unlike an installment loan, where the loan is paid back over a period of months, a payday loan is due in its entirety when it comes due. The problem with this structure is that the majority of payday loans are renewed or extended,
critics say, which means a customer cannot come up with the full sum to pay off the loans and must re-borrow the loan for a fee. Roughly 60 percent of all loans are renewed at least once, and 22 percent of all loans are renewed at least seven times, according to a 2014 study by the CFPB . In California, the largest payday loan market, repeat borrowers made
up 83 percent of loan volume last year, according to a state regulator’s study released Wednesday. The CFPB’s proposal is not expected to take effect until early next year, and experts don’t think it will change substantially from its current version. It would require payday lenders to determine each customer’s ability to repay that loan in the time allotted and
would limit the amount of times a customer could renew the loan. The CFPB’s proposal represents an existential threat to payday lending industry as it currently stands, industry officials and regulators say, with loan originations projected to drop between 59 percent to 80 percent. While most of that drop the CFPB says would stem from the cap on loans being
LOAN SHOP—This April 3, 2015, file photo, shows an ACE Cash Express outlet on San Mateo Boulevard in Albuquerque, N.M. (AP Photo/Vik Jolly, File)
renewed, the CFPB acknowledges in its proposal the volume of payday lending would decrease under the new regulations. “Frankly, there will be fewer small dollar loans available to consumers because of this proposal. There will not be a one-toone replacement. And anything that does replace it will be an inferior product,” said Bob DeYoung, a professor of financial markets at the University of Kansas. The industry has historically shifted quickly from one product to the next to escape regulation. When Arizona voters banned traditional payday lending in 2010, payday lending storefronts quickly converted into auto title loan shops — offering the same high interest loans structured differently. Other payday lenders moved onto Indian reservations to escape state regulations, or set up shop in countries outside the U.S. as online-only payday lenders. But these regulations, the first nationwide clampdown on payday lending, would cause thousands payday lending stores to close nationwide. “This proposal doesn’t tweak or reform an existing product. This is a complete overhaul of the industry,” said Jamie Fuller, senior vice president of public affairs of Advance America, a payday lending chain. What would replace payday lending is not an easy question to answer, but there are a few sceSEE REPLACES C2
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What replaces Payday loans? CONTINUED FROM C1
narios industry experts and consumer advocates expect could happen. SAME BIRD, NEW FEATHERS: The simplest answer is the industry will survive, and keep doing what it is doing by changing the nature of the loans it provides. Nick Bourke, a researcher at Pew who has spent more than five years looking at the payday lending industry, says the industry is already making adjustments in the wake of new regulations. When Colorado effectively banned traditional payday lending, the industry moved into high cost installment loans that are paid over a few months instead of all upfront in a few weeks. “There will be fewer twoweek payday loans because of the CFPB rules, but the industry has already shifted to installment lending that is paid over several months. There will still be high interest rate payday loans on the market,” Bourke said. PAWNING: Another possible beneficiary may be pawnshops. A 2015 Cornell University study found that states that banned payday loans saw more activity at pawn shops and more checking accounts being closed involuntarily, possibility due to an increased amount of people overdrafting their accounts. But pawn shops are largely seen as a place for people to borrow who don’t have checking accounts. BANKS TAKE OVER: Consumer advocates and the CFPB have been quite public in saying the best solution would be for traditional banks, which are highly regulated, to take over payday lending. Banks have plenty of locations, easy access to funds, and can make loans at much lower interest rates and still be profitable. But banks have been cool at best to the idea. Payday loans are seen as a risky and expensive. The costs for underwriting and processing them would eat into profits from the high interest rates they carry. “Most of our members are willing to do small dollar loans, but they are not very profitable. Application fees don’t cover the cost of doing the application and the processing and the credit check. There are just fixed costs that you just cannot get around,” said Joe Gormley, assistant vice president and regulatory counsel at the Independent Community Bankers of America, a lobby group for small banks. CREDIT UNIONS: There are already some experimental alternatives going on to replace payday loans. One program run through credit unions is called the Payday Alternative Loan, where a customer can borrow between $200 to $1,000 at 28 percent interest and an application fee of $20. But interest in the program has been limited. The federal regulator for the PAL program estimates only 20 percent of credit unions provided such loans and loan originations were only $123.3 million last year, a drop in the bucket compared to the roughly $7 billion the mainstream payday lending industry did in the same year. There’s also a program being tried in Atlanta, run by the credit agency Equifax and the National Federation of Community Development Credit Unions, that will provide payday loan alternatives that would come with lower interest rates as well as financial counseling to help people avoid borrowing in an emergency again. (Ken Sweet covers banking and consumer financial issues for The Associated Press. Follow him on twitter at (at)kensweet.)
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
BUSINESS
Douglas makes Olympic team, debuts new Barbie
Certification Seminar
by Yesha Callahan The Root
Olympic gymnast Gabrielle Douglas shows off her Gabrielle Douglas Barbie doll. Although Gabrielle Douglas had a tough time at the recent Olympic trials, she made the team and will be joined by Simone Biles, Aly Raisman, Laurie Hernandez and Madison Kocian in Rio de Janeiro. And she now has become immortalized with her own Barbie! Douglas’ doll joins those of Misty Copeland, Trisha Yearwood and Ava DuVernay as part of Mattel’s “Shero” line. Douglas hopes her doll will teach people to go for their dreams. “I love a challenge. I love to push limits and I love that my very own Barbie celebrates me for being a
JULY 14—Chatham University’s Women’s Business Center presents its “Is my business certifiable” workshop, 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the Abator Business Office, 615 South Avenue, Pittsburgh 15221. In this interactive workshop, attendees will learn about different certification programs for Minority, Women and Disadvantaged businesses, and why choosing the right one is important. For more information, call 412-365-1448.
Training Event
role model to girls,” said Douglas. “Being honored as a Barbie Shero further motivates me to inspire girls by being the best I can be.” “Be yourself and really
embrace your inner beauty and your true talent,” she told People. “Believe in yourself. Never let anyone tell you you can’t do something when you can.”
Apple, Microsoft, HP among companies shunning GOP convention by Brandon Bailey AP Technology Writer
SAN FRANCISCO (AP)—Donald Trump has promised to liven up this year’s Republican National Convention. But some of America’s biggest corporations are bailing on the party. Apple recently became the latest company to give the GOP’s presumptive nominee the cold shoulder; it won’t contribute money or products to the Republicans’ big shindig in Cleveland this month. HP Inc. is also withholding support, while Microsoft is giving products only, not cash. Beyond the tech industry, Ford, JPMorgan Chase and United Parcel Service have opted to withhold support. Most of these companies are also taking a pass on donating to the 2016 Democratic convention. In previous election cycles, though, several of them have given Republican organizers more—sometimes far more— in cash or donated products than they have the Democrats, making their pullback from the Republican gathering this year more dramatic. WHY COMPANIES ARE UNEASY The reasons aren’t completely clear. None of these companies publicly described its decisions as a repudiation of Trump. Several declined to discuss their thinking, while others said their sponsorship plans were decided months before Trump emerged as the front-runner for the GOP nomination. In many cases, however, their decisions became known after civil rights groups launched a public effort—including billboards, letters and online messages—aimed at persuading companies to withhold support for an event celebrating a candidate who’s campaigned with incendiary proposals , racial rhetoric and harsh comments about immigrants and women. “Of course it’s because of Trump,’’ said Larry Sabato, a University of Virginia political scientist who has studied party conventions for more than 30 years. Business executives, he said, don’t want to alienate customers who may be offended by Trump’s statements. “Just as candidates don’t get votes from people they insult,’’ he said, “corporations don’t
BUSINESS BUSINESS CALENDAR CALENDAR
get business from people they insult.’’ Even so, Republican convention organizers say their fundraising is going well. More than 100 donors have contributed a total of $57.5 million, or about 90 percent of what’s needed, said Emily Lauer of the Cleveland 2016 Host Committee. She declined to provide a list of sponsors. Trump’s campaign did not respond to requests for comment. APPLE AND THE REPUBLICANS Apple made headlines after Politico reported the tech giant won’t support the GOP convention because of Trump’s divisive statements. Apple declined to comment on its plans for either convention this year, although Lauer confirmed to The Associated Press that the company isn’t a sponsor for the GOP gathering. A spokeswoman for Democratic organizers declined to comment. Apple CEO Tim Cook has publicly supported diversity and fair treatment of immigrants. Trump, meanwhile, has publicly blasted the company for manufacturing its products abroad and for resisting FBI demands to help unlock an encrypted iPhone used by an extremist killer in San Bernardino, California. As if to underscore that Apple’s dispute is with Trump, but not the GOP, Cook hosted a California fundraiser for House Speaker Paul Ryan and other congressional Republicans last week. Ryan has endorsed Trump, but opposed his call to temporarily ban foreign Muslims from entering the country and criticized a Trump remark as “the textbook definition of a racist comment.’’ Apple hasn’t been a big cash donor to past conventions, although it gave $165,000 in computers and other tech gear for the 2008 GOP gathering and $140,000 worth of products to that year’s Democratic event. It also loaned iPhones to organizers of the 2012 Republican convention. DOWN IN THE VALLEY Another well-known tech company, Hewlett-Packard, gave a total of $1 million in cash and tech gear for the two previous GOP conventions. While organizers of the 2012 Democratic convention didn’t accept corporate cash, HP gave $100,000 to the Democrats’ gathering in 2008. HP has since split into two corporations; neither is donating to either
convention this year. Meg Whitman, the chairman of HP Inc. and CEO of spinoff Hewlett Packard Enterprise, has been a prominent Republican fundraiser over the years. But she has called Trump ``a dishonest demagogue’’ and said his nomination would be disastrous for the party. Not every Silicon Valley company has followed suit. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has criticized Trump’s proposal for a wall on the Mexican border to block illegal immigration. But his company said it’s providing “financial and other support’’ to both conventions. Google said it will be the official “livestream provider’’ of online video from both events. Microsoft said in April that it’s providing tech products to both party conventions this year but will give cash—it hasn’t said how much— only to the Democratic event. Microsoft has made hefty donations to past Republican conventions. It gave $815,000 in cash and more than $700,000 in products in 2012, while providing $1.3 million in cash and products to the Republican gathering in 2008. By contrast, Microsoft has given less support to previous Democratic gatherings. It provided $71,000 in software for the 2012 Democratic convention and $640,000 worth of products in 2008. ELSEWHERE IN THE FORTUNE 100 Several other companies said they’re not supporting either party’s event this year. UPS donated more than $400,000 in cash and services to the GOP convention in 2012 and a similar amount to the Republicans in 2008, while providing $125,000 worth of donated services to the Democrats in 2012 and far less in 2008. Spokeswoman Kara Ross said her company decided last year that it wouldn’t give to either event in 2016, citing budgetary reasons unrelated to Trump’s candidacy. Similarly, Ford Motor Co. says it decided to sit out both conventions last year, well before Trump emerged as the front-runner. JPMorgan Chase says it decided near the start of 2016 to donate money instead to youth employment programs in this year’s host cities. Both companies gave cash to the Republican convention in 2012 and equal amounts to both party gatherings in 2008.
JULY 20—The Duquesne University Small Business Development Center presents Writing and Implementing a Business Plan, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Allegheny County Department of Economic Development, One Chatham Center, Suite 900, 112 Washington Place. A panel of experts will convey step-by-step instruction on how to write and implement a business plan along with the financing options available to assure the best results for achieving the established goals. The event is free, but seating is limited. Call 412-350-1067 to register.
Special Business Breakfast JULY 22—The African American Chamber of Commerce will host a Special Breakfast Meeting, starting at 8 a.m. at the Rivers Club, 301 Grant Street. The guest speaker will be Greater Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce President Matt Smith.
Build Your Business Workshop JULY 30—The Women Business Center in partnership with Hill CDC an SCORE® Pittsburgh present a Build Your Business Workshop to women interested in starting or expanding their business, from from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Hill CDC offices, 2015 Centre Avenue. Business experts and seasoned entrepreneurs will discuss the following topics: business planning, marketing and sales, financing, legal issues and business lessons learned. The cost is $20. Veterans are free and there are a number of 50percent scholarships available. Register online at http://www.chatham.edu/ wbc.
Small Business Workshop August 27—The Chatham Center for Women’s Entrepreneurship presents Small Business Basics, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. in the Mellon at its Shadyside Campus. Entrepreneurs will provide lessons learned and experts in areas including sales, accounting, and financing will provide brief presentations and will be available for participant Q&A at this informal workshop. The fee is $30. (To have information on Business Calendar, send information at least two weeks in advance to: 315 E. Carson St., Pittsburgh, PA 15219; Fax: 412-481-1360 or e-mail: newsroom@newpittsburghcourier.com.)
‘I am my customer’ CONTINUED FROM C1
the mission to offer powerfully feminine designs at a superior level of service for the sophisticated curvaceous woman, Vick says she likes that Dorsey’s designs offers modern yet classic looks that are flattering for the ultra-thin woman to the curvaceous and voluptuous woman ranging in sizes up to 24. The site also includes fashion news inclusive of copies of Plus Magazine. Labeling Timeline as a new brand, Vick says she sponsors events like a photo shoot she just completed featuring new arrivals, she hosted a spring fashion show, encourages her customers to host home parties, she vends and has hopes to do a pop up shop. July 29, Timeline will be a part of the ReFined Culture Fashion Showcase with designer Lana Neau Meyer. The event is affiliated with the Phenomenal Open Mic Speaker Series I sponsored by Jade Earth Events and Neau World Charities at the Sherwood Event Center. The event will be hosted by Lady Mahogany and Ayana Sade is the featured artist. A personal styling service, Vick describes as being designed to style,
dress and educate women of all shapes and sizes with clothing that best fits their fashion desires is another service provided by Timeline. “Clients are paired with their very own personal styling expert that guides them in finding their prefect look,” she said. Currently only available in Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas, Vick says client benefits include a portfolio of looks that are designed specifically for them based on their fashion desires, three complete outfits to choose from based on their portfolio preferences A NEW WAY TO SHOP—Specializing in dresses and tops, Chanell M. Vick shows off and a follow up fitting ap- a few outfits from the Timeline collection. (Photos by Diane I. Daniels) pointment to ensure all clothing looks and feels home parties and events now not being able to find a job. “I good for the special occasion. The hosted by Timeline. felt rejected. So knowing this personal styling service, she says Always focused on a career in was something that I wanted to makes her business unique. fashion, and a person with great do, I had to create my own opIn five years, Vick says she self-confidence, Vick says other portunity. Nothing in this world hopes to work with new design- than fulfilling the needs of plus is given to you,” she pointed out. ers, to have an office space to size women, another major con- “My final take away from that conduct photo shoots, to work the tributor to her starting Time- experience and advice is that business full time and to signifi- line was coming out of school you are the painter of your cantly increase the number of wanting to become a buyer and world... Create it!”
SPORTS New Pittsburgh Courier
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JULY 13-19, 2016
High hurdles
by Aubrey Bruce
For New Pittsburgh Courier
In February 2016, I contemplated what the Pirates current season would look like with their young future superstar Josh Bell in the lineup. The column was titled: “the future is now.” I fantasized that: “The year is 2016 and the Pirates are playing the Chicago Cubs in the National League Championship Series. First baseman Josh Bell was called up from Indianapolis right after the All-Star break and has been terrorizing big league pitchers since his arrival to the big time.” Well my “vision” was only partially correct.
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Pirates were a sub-.500, minor league team when he inherited the team in November of 2010. Hurdle who was the hitting coach for the Texas Rangers before taking the Pirates gig replaced John Russell, who was fired the day after completing a 105-loss season in 2010 —the Pirates’ worst in 58 years and their record-extending 18th consecutive losing season. Russell lost 299 games in three seasons. Whew what a nightmare. When Hurdle came in, he not only raised the bar, he trashed it. There is no bar with Clint Hurdle because anyone who has been around him knows that he lives, preach-
Inside Conditions Yes, the Pirates were facing the Cubs. Yes, Bell did terrorize the Cubs pitchers first getting a rally starting single, then hitting a spirit killing grand slam (for the Cubs) which was also a game clincher, for the Pirates. However, Josh Bell did all of these things “before” the All-Star break. Bell had two at-bats against Chicago and smacked a single and a grand slam. That is some deep stuff, really, really, deeeeep stuff. Many times when we prognosticate about anything, it’s almost relative to playing craps in Las Vegas. Sometimes you win, more often than not, you lose. Why? There is something to the theory as to why folks play it safe. The real reason is abject failure and unemployment. Gambling on any unproven commodity is like playing poker with a deck of cards marked so that only the “house” can see the markings. It’s just too risky. No one including baseball managers have a desire to be in the soup line, instead of the steak line. However as I have said in the past, the respect that I have for Pirates manager Clint Hurdle goes far beyond game strategies. The man primarily has a vision and secondly, strategizes. The vision is the clay and strategy is the sculptor. Hurdle had a vision when the
es and teaches that the sky is the only limit. When everyone else was singing a funeral aria regarding the Pirates chances of making the postseason, I wrote a column titled “triple play.” In the column I wrote that: “the Pirates have a manager in Clint Hurdle that will never give up until the “Fat Lady” sings at least a couple of verses.” The Cubs manager Joe Madden, is fast losing the quietly cocky cerebral manger persona and is now appearing as if he is beginning to feel the pressure of injuries and subpar performances of the Cubs may have reduced the mountain that the NL Central combatants have been forced to climb during the first half of the season in order to invade the Cubs stronghold of first place in the division, into a molehill. It now appears as if the Chicago Cubs have a few more “high hurdles” to clear before they can lay claim to the NL Central Division crown because after the 2016 All-Star break, the “bell” of history could just toll on their almost “flawless” season. Remember as of 2016, the curse of the Chicago Cubs has not been vanquished because they haven’t won anything substantial in more than a century.
SERENA AND VENUS WILLIAMS
Serena takes 2 trophies home from London
LONDON (AP)—Serena Williams is leaving Wimbledon with two trophies, teaming with her older sister Venus to win a women’s doubles final that began a little more than 3 hours after the singles final ended Saturday as well as tying the record for most. The American siblings won their sixth doubles championship at the All England Club and 14th as a pair at all Grand Slam tournaments by beating fifth-seeded Timea Babos of Hungary and Yaroslava Shvedova of Kazakhstan 6-3, 6-4. Earlier Saturday, also on Centre Court, Serena collected her 22nd Grand Slam singles title with a straight-set victory over Angelique Kerber in that final. “I had just enough time to change and get my ankles re-taped,” Serena said about going from one match to the other. “But there was so much adrenaline. I didn’t want to cool down too much.” Venus sat in the guest box (The source of the article was during the singles final. espn.com) “Watching Serena earlier was so amazing, and I was so into that. And then you have to re-set yourself and say, ‘OK, we’ve got to play a match and we’re going to have to try to win,’” Venus said during a joint interview with the BBC after the doubles. “So she brought the energy from Game 1 and that really brought me up, too.” The Williams sisters also won doubles titles at Wimbledon in 2000, 2002, 2008, 2009 and 2012. Each time,
by Bill Neal For New Pittsburgh Courier
:10—I guess we knew Kevin Durant would end up at Golden State or the Spurs. I guess we also knew he was not going back to OKC…what we don’t know is how they’re going to share the ball in the Warriors offense. I know Coach Kerr has a plan, but how do three guys that can score 40 a night co-exist with one ball??? Stay tuned. :09—You know I’m not one to say I told you so… well, actually I am. And I told ya the Pirates would be back. All teams have a bad run. Case in point. Look at the Cubs right now. :08—Speaking of the Cubs, your Bucs took 2 out of 3 and right now that’s worthy of pennant consideration. I still say we may not have the pitching to win a world series, but they’ll be in the race now. :07—July 29…that’s the day boys and girls, your Pittsburgh Steelers kick off the 2016 season in search of Super Bowl #7. I for one
one or the other also won the singles championship, with Serena doing it in 2002, 2009 and 2012 in addition to this year. They’re now 14-0 in major doubles finals. But they were unseeded this time because they play doubles so infrequently, and their most recent Grand Slam title before Saturday had come four years ago at the All England Club. Until playing at the French Open in May, they hadn’t even entered a doubles draw at any major tournament since 2014.
They’re planning to compete in doubles, in addition to singles, at the Rio de Janeiro Olympics next month. They already have won three gold medals in doubles, at the 2000, 2008 and 2012 Summer Games. When they were asked during the BBC interview which one is in charge of their doubles team, Serena immediately pointed toward Venus and said with a laugh, “She’s definitely the boss.” And Venus said: “Well, I’m the older sister, so it kind of falls on me. But (there are)
different times on the court that we both take over. So whatever the team needs, it kind of happens organically. That’s the best kind of team.” Shvedova, who lost to Venus in the singles quarterfinals this week, was trying to win her third Grand Slam doubles title, after teaming with Vania King for trophies at Wimbledon and the U.S. Open in 2010. Babos has never won a major doubles trophy; she was the runner-up with Kristina Mladenovic at Wimbledon in 2014.
Serena wins 22nd Slam title
LONDON (AP)—Serena Williams won her record-tying 22nd Grand Slam title by beating Angelique Kerber 7-5, 6-3 in the Wimbledon final on Saturday. Williams pulled even with Steffi Graf for the most major championships in the Open era, which began in 1968. Now Williams stands behind only Margaret Court’s alltime mark of 24. This was Williams‘ seventh singles trophy at the All England Club and second in a row. Her victory at Wimbledon a year ago raised her Grand Slam count to 21, but while she came close to adding to that total since, she couldn’t quite do it. There was a stunning loss to Roberta Vinci in the U.S. Open semifinals in September, ending Williams‘ bid for a calendar-year Grand Slam. Then came losses in finals to Kerber at the Australian Open in January, and to Garbine Muguruza at the French Open last month. But in the rematch against the fourth-seeded Kerber at Centre Court on Saturday - the first time in a decade two women met to decide multiple major titles in a single season - the No. 1-ranked Williamscame through. The 34-year-old American did it, as she
Overtime
think this will be it, but two things have to happen. Number one—everyone has to stay healthy…duh! And number two, and this is key and one step up from staying healthy, they have to keep the money makers all on the field at the same time. Big Ben, Bell, Pouncy, A.B., Heyward and whatever linebacker decides to be a star. Oh, one more thing, coaching mistakes must be reduced…I’m just saying. :06—I forgot to mention it last week, dear Lord forgive me, but a fond remembrance of our great friend and hometown hero Armon “The Hammer” Gilliam. The legendary Connie Hawkins League, UNLV, NBA superstar who passed away much too soon July 5, 2011. We really miss you “Hammer” and the world was a much better place with you in it!!! :05—Consider the legends who have gone and this just given my limited knowledge. Kenny “K.D.” Durrett, Maurice Lucas, Robert “Jeep” Kelly, Nathan “Sonny” Lewis, Larry
often does, with nearly impeccable serving. She slammed 13 aces, including at least one in each of her first eight service games. She won 38 of 43 points when she put a first serve in. And she faced just one break point - at 3-all in the second set, it representedKerber’s only real opening - and shut the door quickly and emphatically, with a pair of aces at 117 mph and 124 mph, her fastest of the afternoon. There was more that Williams did well, though. So much more. Facing the left-handed Kerber’s reactive, counter-punching style, Williams was by far the more aggressive player, trying to make things happen. And she did, compiling a big edge in winners, 39-12. It was breezy, but that didn’t seem to hamper Williams, whose older sister Venus sat in her guest box, a couple of seats over from music’s power couple of Beyonce and Jay Z. Kerber, a German who knows Graf well, defeated Venus in the semifinals and hadn’t dropped a set on her way to the final. But on the grass that suitsWilliams‘ game so well, Kerber simply could not quite keep up with the trophy on the line.
“Byrd” Richardson, Darryl Gissendanner, Kenny West, Leroy “Free” Freeman, Chucky Anderson, Len “Houdini” Johnson. :04—And speaking of that…the 40 year anniversary of the nationally recognized Connie Hawkins Pro/AM/NCAA Summer Basketball League is at hand. The celebration reunion party will be coming up soon. Come one. Come all. If you played, coached or just watched some of the greatest players of all time, come on out. Get all the final information next week in your New Pittsburgh Courier! :03—OK, if you’re the only human being on earth that doesn’t have a clue as to who Simone Biles is… then “wake up and smell the fried chicken!” She is, in fact, quite possibly the greatest gymnast…ever. Three time World Champion and about to win Olympic gold. Oh, did I mention she’s Black? Yes!!! :02—This is your next to the next last call. The Armon “The Hammer” Gilliam
and Leroy Freeman Memorial “Hard Work” Basketball Camp. Coming up Aug. 6 and 7 at the Penn Hills YMCA. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. each day. Includes total professional supervision, lectures, games, skills and drills, t-shirt, lunch and a lot of “hard work,” respect and love. Only $25 for the weekend. Call ASAP to register your child at 412-628-4856 for boys and girls ages 8-16 years old. Space is limited to the first 100 children. :01—Heart breaking news. Former Olympic super star and first African American figure skating champion Debi Thomas is broke and almost homeless. Additional shocking news because Ms. Thomas is also a surgeon! :00—The 3rd Annual Pittsburgh City League High School All-Sports Hall of Fame Inductions are upcoming, Saturday, Oct. 22. You can start your call-in nominations starting now. Looking for the best of the best in city league sports history 412-628-4856. ~ GAME OVER ~
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POLICE OFFICERS CITY OF ALIQUIPPA
Qualified persons are invited to apply to the City of Aliquippa Civil Service Commission to take competitive examinations leading to eligibility for appointment as a Police Officer in the City of Aliquippa Police Department. An application form may be obtained beginning July 5, 2016 at the City Building, 581 Franklin Avenue, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Completed applications must be returned by 4:00 PM, July 19, 2016 with a $35.00 non-refundable application fee payable to the City of Aliquippa. REQUIREMENTS: At the time of application applicants are required to be Act 120 Certified or have successfully completed Act 120 Training with the State Exam successfully completed by date of conditional hire, have a high school diploma or GED, be a minimum of 18 years of age, hold a valid motor vehicle operator’s license issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, be a U.S. Citizen and be physically and mentally fit to perform duties of a police officer. Successful applicants must meet all other Civil Service requirements. Women and Minorities Are Encouraged to Apply. EOE
DIRECTOR, ALLEGHENY PARTNERS FOR OUT-OFSCHOOL TIME (APOST) United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania
The United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania is recruiting for a Director, Allegheny Partners for Out-of-School Time (APOST) for our Pittsburgh office. APOST is a network of providers, intermediaries and funders dedicated to increasing quality of and access to of out-of-school (OST) programming for youth. The Project Director for APOST will promote the need for quality, advocate for a stronger system, and promote collaboration to further these goals. APOST has achieved significant growth and recognition as a key leader for OST in the county, across the Commonwealth, and nationally. While much has been accomplished, much remains to be done. Working closely with the APOST Executive Committee, the Project Director will provide vision, leadership, and passion for the out-of-school time quality movement resulting in more people working together to expand and improve out-of-school time programs, more youth involved with quality OST programs, and an overall more efficient system through improved access to and use of data, information and resources. Bachelor’s Degree, and five years’ experience in youth development or related field are required. Visit our website at https://uwswpa.org/careers/ to view job description and apply for this position. Submissions will only be accepted electronically. The United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania, is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity, serving Allegheny, Westmoreland, Fayette and Southern Armstrong Counties.
CUSTODIAN/LABORER (FULL-TIME)
Requires a high school diploma or equivalent. A valid driver’s license is required. Hours are Monday- Friday; 3:00 pm- 12:00 pm. Located at the South Campus. For more details and to apply, visit http://apptrkr. com/837383; and apply to “Custodian/Laborer” posting. Community College of Allegheny County. EOE.
HOSPITALIST
UPMC Emergency Medicine, Inc. seeks multiple Hospitalists in Allegheny County, PA to provide and direct inpatient medical care for hospital patients. May be required to work overnight shifts as a Nocturnist (Hospitalist who works overnight shifts). Must have medical degree; must have completed residency in Internal Medicine or Family Medicine; must hold or be eligible for a valid unrestricted PA medical license. Apply by following these steps; visit http://careers. upmc.com and enter 1600011K in the “Search Keyword/Job ID” field and click Go. EOE.
INSTRUCTOR CHEMICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN PROGRAM BIDWELL TRAINING CENTER
Instructs adult in mathematics, chemistry, chemistry laboratory techniques & additional related chemical technology subjects in accordance with department of education licensing regulations, accreditation standards, industry regulations and job market demands. B.S. degree and 4-5 years experience in chemical industry plus 2 years experience in training or classroom instruction required. Valid Pennsylvania driver’s license & insurable driver’s record required. Send Resume with cover letter and salary requirements to hr@ manchesterbidwell.org EOE LEGAL ADVERTISING Legal Notices
Ms. MARY C. CALLAHAN, deceased, of 207 Oak Lane, Pittsburgh, PA 15225, Estate No. 02-16-03506. Ms. Linda E. Walker, 7120 Front River Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15225, Executrix, c/o Max Feldman, Attorney At Law, 1322 Fifth Avenue, Coraopolis, PA 15108. Estate of ROBERT L. DANIEL, JR. deceased, of Allegheny County No. 021603538 of 2016, Cicley Lancaster Extr., 3147 Wadlow Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, to Allegheny Law Group, LLC Attys., 816 5th Avenue, Ste. 600, Pittsburgh. PA 15219
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COMBINED NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT AND NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS (“FONSI/RROF”)
This Notice is published pursuant to Federal Regulations promulgated by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”)’s Environmental Assessment set forth at 24 CFR Part 58, Section 58.36. July 13, 2016 City of Pittsburgh-Dept. of City Planning 200 Ross Street, 2nd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-255-2211 These notices shall satisfy two separate but related procedural requirements for activities to be undertaken by the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh. REQUEST FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS On or about July 29 , 2016 the City of Pittsburgh (“City”) will authorize the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (“HACP”) to submit a request to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) for the release of the following federal funds to undertake projects known as Allegheny Dwellings Demolitions, Disposition and Implementation of Redevelopment Plan: (a) HACP Moving to Work (“MTW”) Funds under the 1937 Act as modified by the 1996 and 1999 Consolidated Appropriations Act and (b) Low Income Housing Tax Credits under IRS Code Section 42. The release of the aforementioned funds is to undertake Allegheny Dwellings Demolitions, Disposition and Implementation of Redevelopment Plan for the purposes of new construction of about 65 mixed-income rental dwelling units for Phase I (and up to 235 units for Phase II and Phase III, for a total of up to 300 total units). Allegheny Dwellings Demolitions, Disposition and Implementation of Redevelopment Plan will be developed on Allegheny Dwellings site and other adjacent sites in the Fineview/Central Northside neighborhoods, Pittsburgh, PA 15212. As part of this notice, the project requires a set of predevelopment activities including HACP’s acquisition of public and private properties, disposition of HACP-owned properties, and demolition of structures. The developer is Allies & Ross Management and Development Corporation along with a co-developer, TREK Development Group. The total development cost is approximately $21,187,887.00 for Phase I FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT The City of Pittsburgh has determined that the project will have no significant impact on the human environment. This FONSI is based upon compliance with mitigation measures which have been identified as necessary to reduce the environmental impacts of the proposed action to a point or level where they are determined to no longer be significant. Based on compliance with mitigations measures which reduce the environmental impact to no longer be considered significant, an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (“NEPA”) is not required. Additional project information is contained in the Environmental Review Record (ERR) on file at City of Pittsburgh 200 Ross Street, 2nd Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 and may be examined or copied weekdays from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. PUBLIC COMMENTS Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to: Michael Petrucci City of Pittsburgh, 200 Ross Street, 2nd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-255-2211 All comments received by July 29, 2016, will be considered by the City of Pittsburgh prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds. Comments should specify which Notice they are addressing. ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION The City of Pittsburgh certifies to HUD that William Peduto in his capacity as Mayor, City of Pittsburgh, consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. HUD’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities and allows the City, HACP and URA to use funding sources (a) through (f) identified under Request for Release of Funds above. OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS HUD will accept objections to its release of fund and the City of Pittsburgh’s certification for a period of fifteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the City of Pittsburgh; (b) the City of Pittsburgh has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by HUD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed to: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Community Planning and Development Division The Moorhead Federal Building 1000 Liberty Ave.-10th floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Potential objectors should contact HUD to verify the actual last day of the objection period. WILLIAM PEDUTO Mayor City of Pittsburgh
America’s Best Weekly 315 East Carson Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Classifieds 412-481-8302 Ext. 140 E-mail: ads@newpittsburghcourier.com Deadline/Closing/Cancellation Schedule for copy, corrections, and cancellations: Friday noon preceding Wednesday publication
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
The Sports & Exhibition Authority will receive sealed bids for Roof Cable System Waterproofing as identified below for the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. The design engineer is Modjeski & Masters, Inc. The contract for this work will be with the Sports & Exhibition Authority of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County. Inquiries regarding the bidding should be made to the Sports & Exhibition Authority 171 10th Street, 2nd Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, Attention: Linda Mihalic E-mail: lmihalic@pittsburghcc.com, Telephone: 412-325-6167 Facsimile: 412-325-6105. Bid Packages may be obtained after the date identified below through Accu-Copy at (724) 935-7055. Additional information on the project can also be found of Accu-Copy’s website at http://www.accu-copy.com/plan room.html This Advertisement applies to the following Bid Package: Project: David L. Lawrence Convention Center Bid Package: Roof Cable System Waterproofing Bid Packages Available: July 6, 2016 Approximate Value: $ 80,000 Time/Date/Location for Pre-Bid Meeting: 1:30 PM, July 13, 2016, avid L. Lawrence Convention Center 1000 Ft. Duquesne Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Time/Date/Location for Bid: 2:00 PM, July 26, 2016, David L. Lawrence Convention Center 1000 Ft. Duquesne Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15222
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) FOR Security Services for Family Communities & Senior High-rises RFP #350-35-16
The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request proposals from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): Security Services for Family Communities & Senior High-rises RFP #350-35-16 The documents will be available no later than July 5, 2016 and signed, sealed proposals will be accepted until 11:00 A.M., August 1, 2016 at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street, 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Parties or individuals interested may obtain information from: Mr. Kim Detrick – Procurement Director/Contracting Officer Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 2nd Floor, Suite 200 100 Ross Street Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-456-5116, Option 1 or by visiting the Business Opportunities section of www.hacp.org A pre bid meeting will be held: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Development & Modernization 100 Ross Street, 2nd Floor, Board Room Pittsburgh, PA 15219 July 22, 2016 1:00 P.M. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation. HACP’s has revised their website. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and log-in, in order to view and download IFB/RFPs documentation. Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh
HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.
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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 August 10, 2016 and will be publicly opened and read immediately thereafter at the same address. EMSWORTH BRIDGE REPAIR CONTRACT NO. SYS-16-08 The Work of this Project includes, but is not limited to, the furnishing of all labor and materials, tools, equipment and incidental items necessary for the repair of the Emsworth Bridge. Work items generally consist of, but not limited to, structural steel repairs, concrete repairs, bituminous wearing surface replacement, deck joint replacement, bearing repair, spot and zone painting, and other miscellaneous repairs. Bid Documents will be available for public inspection and may be obtained on or after July 11, 2016 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. Pre-Bid Conference July 26, 2016 Port Authority of Allegheny County Heinz 57 Center Neal Holmes Board Room 345 Sixth Avenue, Fifth Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 (Attendance is not mandatory, but strongly recommended) No Site Tour scheduled: Emsworth Bridge location is publicly accessible. 1:30 p.m. Bids Due August 10, 2016 Purchasing and Materials Management Department Authority reserves the right to reject any or all Bids
NOTICE TO PROPOSERS
The Sports & Exhibition Authority of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County (SEA) will receive proposals for ELECTRICAL SWITCHGEAR MAINTENANCE as identified below. The contract for this work will be with the Sports & Exhibition Authority. The Request for Proposal may be obtained after the date identified below from Ryan Buries, Email: rburies@pittsburghcc.com, Telephone: (412) 325-6179, Facsimile: (412) 325-6104. This Advertisement applies to the following Request for Proposal: Project: DLCC Electrical Switchgear Maintenance RFP Available: July 9, 2016 Pre-Proposal Meeting: 10:00 AM Wednesday, July 13, 2016, David L. Lawrence Convention Center, SMG Admin Office-East Lobby, 1000 Ft. Duquesne Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Time/Date/Location for Proposals: 4:00 PM Friday, July 29, 2016, David Lawrence Convention Center, 1000 Ft. Duquesne Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
NOTICE TO PROPOSERS
The Sports & Exhibition Authority of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County (SEA) will receive proposals for FABRIC ROOF INSPECTION AND REPAIR as identified below. The contract for this work will be with the Sports & Exhibition Authority. The Request for Proposal may be obtained after the date identified below from Linda Mihalic, email: lmihalic@pittsburghcc.com, Telephone: (412) 325-6167, Facsimile: (412) 325-6104. This Advertisement applies to the following Request for Proposal: Project: DLCC Fabric Roof Inspection and Repair RFP Available: July 6, 2016 Pre-Proposal Meeting: 10:00 AM July 14, 2016, David L. Lawrence Convention Center, SMG Admin Office-East Lobby, 1000 Ft. Duquesne Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Time/Date/Location for Proposals: 2:00 PM July 26, 2016, David L. Lawrence Convention Center, 1000 Ft. Duquesne Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
To place a display ad in the New Pittsburgh Courier call 412-481-8302 ext. 128 or 129
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MUNICIPALITY OF PENN HILLS MAJOR CHANGE TO COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM YEAR 32, 38, 39 and 40
On Monday, August 15, 2016, the Mayor and Council of Penn Hills will meet at 7:30 p.m. in Council Chambers, 12245 Frankstown Road, to consider the following major change to the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. Funds from older inactive accounts will be redistributed to fund street reconstruction and sidewalks. The chart below illustrates the redistribution of funds. FUNDS TO TRANSFER: Project Name (-) New Balance Milltown Park $ 933.46 $ 0 Single Family Rehab Yr 38 $ 5,245.00 $ 0 Single Family Rehab Yr 39 $ 19,585.91 $ 0 Senior Aid Rehab Yr 39 $ 6,185.97 $ 0 Single Family Rehab Yr 40 $ 40,000.00 $ 0 Senior Aid Rehab Yr 40 $ 10,000.00 $ 0 TOTAL $ 81,950.34 NEW PROJECTS OR INCREASED BUDGETS Project Name (+) New Balance Year 40 Street Reconstruction $ 40,000.00 $ 41,970.00 Year 40 Sidewalks $ 41,950.34 $109,480.59 TOTAL $ 81,950.34 This advertisement will serve as public notice for redistribution of funds in excess of 50% of the original budget for the above activities which is considered to be a substantial change to the Consolidated Plan and as a result requires a thirty (30) day comment period as stated in the Penn Hills Citizen’s Participation Plan. The Planning Department, 12245 Frankstown Road, will accept public comment on the proposed change in writing through August 15, 2016. Mayor and Council will accept public comment at the August 15, 2016, public meeting as well. All interested residents are invited to attend. Further information may be obtained by contacting the Planning Department at 412-798-2126. Persons with disabilities who wish to attend the meeting and require an auxiliary aid, service, or other accommodations to participate in the proceedings, are requested to call 412-798-2126 at least 48 hours before the meeting to discuss how we may meet your needs. Hearing impaired may contact the Municipality through the State Relay Office at 1-800-654-5984.
JULY 13-19, 2016
LEGAL ADVERTISING Bids/Proposals
ALLEGHENY COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA June 29, 2016
The Office of the County Controller of Allegheny County, Room 104, Court House, Pittsburgh, PA, will receive separate and sealed Bids until 11:00 A.M. prevailing local time, WEDNESDAY, July 20, 2016, and a representative of the Department of Public Works will open and read the Bids in the Gold Room, Room 410, Court House, Pittsburgh, PA, onehalf hour later, 11:30 o’clock A.M., for the following: DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS Yost Boulevard Slope Stabilization Project, Borough of Braddock Hills COUNTY PROJECT NO. 3237-0101 PREBID INFORMATION: Purchase and/or view the Proposal, Specifications and Drawings at the Office of the Contract Manager, Room 504, County Office Building, Pittsburgh, PA. The nonrefundable charge for the Proposal and disc containing the Specifications and Drawings is $ 107.00 including sales tax. Bid documents may be mailed for an additional fee of $16.05 including sales tax. The Contract Manager will accept only check or money order to the “COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY.” The Department of Public Works will hold a PreBid Meeting on July 6, 2016 at 1:30 P.M. in Room 505 County Office Building, Pgh. Pa. 15219. Details of this project, Bidding Requirements and Contract Conditions are available on the Allegheny County internet website (www.alleghenycounty.us; click on “Departments,” click on “Public Works” then click on “Bids & Proposals)” and are also available on the Pennsylvania Purchasing Group/PAPG website (www.PAbidsystem.com; click on “bid opportunities;” then click on “Allegheny County-Dept. of Public Works-open documents” – then register if necessary). Chelsa Wagner Controller County of Allegheny
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) FOR Moving Services RFP#450-05-16
The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request proposals from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): Moving Services RFP#450-05-16 The documents will be available no later than July 5, 2016 and signed, sealed proposals will be accepted until 10:00 A.M., July22, 2016 at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street, 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Parties or individuals interested may obtain information from: Mr. Kim Detrick – Procurement Director/Contracting Officer Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 2nd Floor, Suite 200 100 Ross Street Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-456-5116, Option 1 or by visiting the Business Opportunities section of www.hacp.org A pre bid meeting will be held: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 100 Ross Street, 2nd Floor, Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 July 14, 2016 10:00 A.M. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation. HACP’s has revised their website. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and log-in, in order to view and download IFB/RFPs documentation. Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.
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Pick up your Courier at these locations WESTERN AREA: CRAFTON BEVERAGE CRAFTON/INGRAM SHOPPING CENTER GIANT EAGLE CRAFTON/INGRAM SHOPPING CENTER SHEETZ #353 5400 CAMPBELL’S RUN RD SHOP N’ SAVE #1686 2103 NOBLESTOWN RD SAFRANS SUPER MKT 429 WALNUT ST GIANT EAGLE #74 PARKWAY CENTER MALL SOUTHERN AREA: KEN’S 216 BELTZHOOVER AVE NELSON’S 92 SYLVANIA AVE GIANT EAGLE #61 2021 WHARTON AVE COGO’S 2400 EAST CARSON ST COGO’S 925 EAST CARSON ST DAILY MART 1125 ARLINGTON AVE SHOP N’ SAVE CARRICK SOUTH EASTERN AREA: SUPER STOP 403 KENMAWR AVE CARL’S CAFE 337 FIFTH AVE COMET NEWS 540 BRADDOCK AVE PUFFS DISCOUNT TOBACCO 1722 GREENSBUR AVE A-PLUS SUNOCO 7403 WASHINGTON ST COGO’S 1050 BRINTON RD COGO’S 2003 S BRADDOCK AVE EDGEWOOD EXPRESS 253 EDGEWOOD AVE BRAD EXPRESS 1101 S BRADDOCK AVE GIANT EAGLE #619 1705 S. BRADDOCK AVE CVS 7406 CHURCH ST HANINI MARKET 1105 SWISSVALE AVE DUKE’S SUNOCO 825 DUQUESNE BLVD 7-11 818 N. DUQUESNE BLVD GIANT EAGLE #6379 420 EAST WATERFRONT DR GIANT EAGLE— MCKEESPORT 3812 O’NEILL BLVD J & S FOOD MART 625 W GRANT AVE RITE AID PHARMACY 100 WILLIAM MARKS DR GIANT EAGLE 1356 HOFFMAN BLVD BP GAS STATION LYSLE & WALNUT DS FOODMART 929 UNION ST RITE AID PHARMACY 725 LYSLE BLVD CHARLIE’S CORNER STORE 500 LOCUST ST NEIGHBORHOOD DOLLAR 333 5TH AVE GIANT EAGLE #38 1901 MURRAY AVE JACK’S E 8TH AVE EASTERN AREA:
AMES PLAZA, ROUTE 22 GET IT QUICK 500 GARDEN CITY DESTINY’S HAIR SALON 408 RODI RD PUFF’S DISCOUNT TOBACCO 10991 FRANKSTOWN RD SHOP N SAVE 3335 WILLIAM PENN HWY SHEETZ 3457 WILLIAM PENN HWY GETGO 10525 FRANKSTOWN RD CVS PHARMACY 10600 FRANKSTOWN RD SHELL OIL 7619 BAUM BLVD KIWI SUNOCO FRANKSTOWN AVE WILLIAM PENN SMOKE SHOP II 132 NORTH HIGHLAND AVE MARATHON GAS 6680 FRANKSTOWN AVE PENN AIKEN DAIRY 5401 PENN AVE GIANT EAGLE #17 6320 SHAKESPEARE ST HOMEWOOD MARKET 7201 FRANKSTOWN AVE SALIK HARDWARE 607 NORTH HOMEWOOD AVE NEGLEY A PLUS 123 NORTH NEGLEY AVE BAKER’S 7203 HAMILTON & STERRETT AVES DORSEY’S RECORDS 7614 FRANKSTOWN AVE HOSPITAL CORNER 4201 PENN AVE PEOPLES GROCERY 5136 PENN AVE A&M MARKET 5224 PENN AVE A-PLUS MINI MART 7701 PENN AVE WOOD & PENN 902 WOOD ST AL’S FISH & CHICKEN 1000 PENN AVE SAVE A LOT 725 ROSS AVE CVS PHARMACY 520 PENN AVE GETGO 408 PENN AVE QUICK STOP LIBERTY 3349 LIBERTY AVE K-2 CONVENIENT STORE 4900 PENN AVE SHUR SAVE 4120 MAIN ST SHELL GAS 6701 FRANKSTOWN RD UNIMART 5724 ELLSWORTH AVE GIANT EAGLE #77 254 YOST BLVD PUFF’S DISCOUNT TOBACCO 234 YOST BLVD SPEEDY MART 2131 ARDMORE BLVD SQUIRREL HILL NEWS 5804 FORBES AVE MURRAY AVE. NEWS 2024 MURRAY AVE GIANT EAGLE MURRAY AVE & LORETTA ST DISCOUNT TOBACCO & NEWS 1929 MURRAY AVE UNIVERSITY OF PGH BOOKSTORE 4000 5TH AVE DANA’S BAKERY 720 N. HOMEWOOD AVE DA STORE 606 & 1/2 N. HOMEWOOD AVE BONUS TIRE SERVICE 4349 VERONA RD KANDY CAFE 4291 VERONA RD GIANT EAGLE SHADYSIDE 550 CENTRE AVE MARATHON GAS 4010 PENN AVE STANTON NEGLEY DRUG 804 N. NEGLEY AVE RON’S CORNER DRUG MT. CARMEL RD
WATERWORKS GIANT EAGLE #72 1005 FREEPORT RD— DIVINE HAIR STUDIO 10 DUFF RD GIANT EAGLE 9001 FRANKSTOWN RD GIANT EAGLE #78 230 RODI RD BP GAS STATION 11835 FRANKSTOWN RD THE SPOT 11675 FRANKSTOWN RD MASH MINI MART 4341 OLD WM. PENN HWY GIANT EAGLE #60 4004 MONROEVILLE BLVD CENTRAL AREA: GIANT EAGLE #76
GET GO #64 4924 BAUM BLVD SCHWARTZ MARKET 1901 5TH AVE SMOKER FRIENDLY 906 5TH AVE HILL DISTRICT: WONG’S MARKET 2170 CENTRE AVE ANN’S MARKET 2316 WEBSTER AVE A-PLUS MINI MART 2350 CENTRE AVE UJAMMA BOUTIQUE 1901 CENTRE AVE K LEROY IRVIS TOWERS 715 MERCER ST SHOP & SAVE SUPERMARKET 1850 CENTRE AVE ABE’S MARKET 1860 CENTRE AVE WYLIE TOBACCO 2152 WYLIE AVE DOWNTOWN: KWIK-E-MART 212-10TH ST 7-11 #167 643 LIBERTY AVE 7-11 #165 SIXTH & PENN AVE 7-11 #170 429 WOOD ST ESTER’S SNAX FEDERAL BUILDING, 2ND FL SMITHFIELD NEWS 115 SMITHFIELD ST FABER COE & GREGG 500 GRANT ST FABER COE & GREGG FIFTH AVE. PLACE FABER COE & GREGG 600 GRANT ST NIELSEN’S STORES #09 301 GRANT ST— ONE OXFORD CENTER NIELSEN’S STORES #13 437 SEVENTH AVE— KOPPERS BUILDING 9TH & PENN NEWS-NUMBERS 136 PENN AVE EXTRA EXTRA NEWS 413 SEVENTH AVE NEAL NEWS 400 CHERRY WAY CVS PHARMACY #4120 610-612 WOOD ST C&C NEWS 2 PPG PLACE NEWSTAND SIXTH & WOOD ONE STOP 300 SIXTH & WOOD EDDIE’S SNACKS 262 5TH AVE BIG DADDY 465 FORBES AVE 711 SMITHFIELD 420 SMITHFIELD ST NORTHERN AREA: W. N. GROCERY 1018 NORTH AVE. NORTH SIDE BEER & BEVERAGE 1304 FEDERAL ST ALLEGHENY GIFT SHOP— AGH HOSPITAL 320 EAST NORTH AVE GIANT EAGLE #652 318 CEDAR AVE 7-11 #158 1001 WESTERN AVE RICHEY’S BARBER SHOP 1207 N. FRANKLIN ST QUIK-IT 820 PENNSYLVANIA AVE RITE AID #3459 802 PENNSYLVANIA AVE MARSHALL SHELL 1500 SPRING GARDEN AVE SWINKO’S MARKET 2535 PERYSVILLE AVE MERCY STREET EXPRESS 6 MERCY ST HARV’S EXXON 2501 BRIGHTON RD QUICK SCHWARTZ 3235 BRIGHTON RD HANINI MARKET 3245 BRIGHTON RD
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PEOPLE
JULY 13-19, 2016
BETHANY BAPTIST CHURCH (Photos by J.L. Martello)
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
DRUM CORP—The 6th regiment USCT drum corps perform through the parade.
Juneteenth Parade spotlights end of slavery William Marshall is the founder and CEO of a local organization called Stop the Violence-Pittsburgh that addresses killings and serious violence among teens and youth in the African American communities and provide services to family members of the victims of violent crime. “We bring together local groups and organizations to address these issues and pro-
vide a universal platform to illustrate to the communities the high-supportive services that are available inside Allegheny County,” he said in a press release about his organizing the Juneteenth celebration. “2016 is Pittsburgh’s Bicentennial and I have been contacted by the Mayor of Pittsburgh about incorporating Our Community Awareness Day and June-
teenth Festival as part of the historical framework for the 200th anniversary. In light of this request, we hosted a Juneteenth: Martin Delany Festival (June 17 thru 19) highlighting the contributions of African American Abolitionist and Pioneers who helped found and establish the City of Pittsburgh.” One Program was a Re-enactment of the Pitts-
burgh “Jubilee of Freedom Parade.” The Original Parade was held on April 26, 1870, by Rev. Lewis Woodson and other Leaders of Bethel AME Church. This event was the first Parade ever held by FREE Blacks and Abolitionists in the United States. The Parade was based on the Pennsylvania Legislature ratifying the 13th, 14th & 15th Amendments
to the U. S. Constitution (particularly the Right to Vote). In support of this effort Samuel W. Black, director of African American Programs for the Heinz History Center, is the re-enactment historian and helped with this process. Director Black had Byron and Granville Woodson, descendants of Lewis Woodson and Granville T. Woodson who
was part of the march in 1870, partake in the ceremonies. Reverend Stephen Jackson, current-Pastor of Bethel AME Church, Pittsburgh is the lead for the National Congregations and invited area Pastors and Congregations and the Third District Bishop for appearance and made a general request for all National Church Congregations to attend.
COLOR GUARD—The current color guard of the US Marines
RENACTMENT—Civil War reenactment of Martin Delany and other Black Civil War soldiers.
DANCE TEAM—Members of the dance team Lady Diamonds of “LD.”
AFRICAN DRUMS—African American males drum on African drums.
CONCERNED MEN—Members of MAD DADDS community activists.
DANCE TEAM—Members of the Steel City Dance Factory LLC dancing in the parade.