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JULY 15-21, 2015
Farewell to Adrionna observes 4th birthday by Michael B. Rose
however was a day to celebrate a life cut short. For New Pittsburgh Courier “In the Bible it says there is a time for everything. There is a On Sunday, July 13, during a time for mourning, there is a time month where one could more easfor crying,” said Minister Tyree ily count the days it didn’t rain Griffie of Eternal City Church. than it did, sunshine fell on the The event started with a celebraMulberry Community Church, in tory clap for it being Adrionna Williams’ birthday. Two elegies were read by Leslie Ezra Smith and Angel Jackson on behalf of Marlena Johnson. Both poems emphasized that even though Adrionna Willams only lived three years that she was loved in Christ by people who never met her, and that her life had meaning and significance. The central theme from subsequent speakers was forgiveness. Shanequa Taylor, whose birthday was the same day, broke down into tears as she tried to describe the plight of a single mother. “From my perspective I think we should forgive her (Adrienne) for what she has done. We don’t REMEMBERING—The poster of Adrionna Williams know what is the truth. I that was put on the pulpit. (Photo by J.L. Martello) am a single mother and I have been through this for two years raising my son Wilkinsburg, in observance of alone,” she pleaded. “It’s not fair what would have been Adrionna for her to have to suffer for someWilliams’ 4th birthday. thing she could not be heard The then 3-year-old was reupon. I understand because I ported missing and later found couldn’t be heard. It’s not fair just dead on June 14 and by July 7 to worry about the child. We have Adrienne Williams, the child’s to love the mother too. We have to mother, was arrested and now faces murder charges for the SEE FAREWELL A4 death of her daughter. Sunday
Police officer channels outrage through his art
THE BIG PICTURE—Artist and police officer Alphonso Sloan sketches out the main features of his anti-police brutality piece for the July 10 “Wall Paintings” exhibit at the Space Gallery, in downtown Pittsburgh. (Photo by J.L. Martello)
by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
Bright colors, jagged kinetic edges, and, in the middle, a police officer shoots a young Black man, while officers choke another and a poster proclaims “Black Lives Matter.” The images, depicting the deaths of Walter Scott and Eric Garner at the hands of police, were troubling to artist and Pittsburgh Police Patrol Officer Alphonso Sloan, which is why they became the focus of his “Wall Paintings” exhibit at the
by Christian Morrow
during a VIP reception, July 10, prior to its official opening the following day. Guests also enjoyed cocktails and hors d’ouvres upstairs where cutters, manicurists and cosmeticians can accommodate up to four clients at a time in leather and brass barber chairs. As the concierge put it, “At Society, every man’s a king.” Not only does the salon offer a variety of high-end grooming services, but it also features a cigar patio and car detailing, and for those who purchase memberships,
Courier Staff Writer
Tooled leather chairs; brass, glass and wood tables, and cabinetry; historic “Teenie” Harris photos and abstract paintings; a massive flat screen television; a bar replete with crystal decanters; and an elevated shoe shine chair all greet those entering Society Men’s Grooming Lounge in the Hill District. And that’s just the first-floor of the lounge. It is the brainchild of businessmen K. Chase Patterson and Ryan Norman, who showcased it to friends, family and associates
SEE SOCIETY A4
GROOMED FOR SUCCESS—Society owners K. Chase Patterson, left, and Ryan Norman pose in front of their logo shown on the HD screen in the grooming lounge’s downstairs sitting room. (Photo by Rossano P. Stewart)
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arrest of Manchester teacher Dennis Henderson and the shooting of motorist Leon Ford. Sloan said he didn’t include any of those incidents because it would be a policy violation. He also said he informed both Zone 5 Cmdr. Jason Lando and Chief Cameron McLay of his plans for the “Wall Paintings” event well in advance. “I think there will be a positive response to the work from my fellow officers—it’s not anti-police, SEE CHANNELS A4
Hill 365 walks for a healthier community by Ashley Johnson
Society Men’s Grooming Lounge opens in Hill District
Space Gallery, July 10. “It was time to bring some awareness to the situation of what happens to people of color on an almost daily basis,” said Sloan. “And I want people to know that, as police officers, we don’t always agree with what’s happening. We’re people too, and we’re not okay with it.” Sloan is closer to some of that activity than other officers—he works out of Zone 5, where officers were charged with using excessive force in the beating of former CAPA student Jordan Miles, the
Courier Staff Writer
The church has always been the place where movements within the Black community were organized and implemented—civil rights, desegregation of schools, the right to vote—so it’s only natural that a health movement has began there as well. A partnership between UPMC, through its Community Health 365 initiative, and Hill District
Ministers Alliance and local organizations birthed the creation of Hill District 365, an initiative that focuses on making health a priority of the community and encourages its residents to participate in available health services and programs throughout the year, ensuring that residents are living healthier, happier lives. In June, 10 teams, nine of them Hill District churches, began a 60Day Health Challenge; now, more than half-way through the chal-
lenge, more than 300 individuals are walking and worshipping to be healthier. “It’s amazing to me how dedicated, committed and consistent these people are being. It’s an inspiration in itself; it’s people of all ages and fitness levels working together. (It feels good) when you’re doing something that you want to see your community do because you know it’s good for the commuSEE HILL A4
Kierra Keeps Caring 6th Annual ‘Walk 4 Life’ fights to stop violence by Paige Mitchell For New Pittsburgh Courier
The 6th Annual “Walk 4 Life” event took place on July 11 at Schenley Park Trails. The Kierra Keeps Caring Foundation along with Purpose of Life Healthcare and Posh Nail Boutique hosted the event. “I won’t stop, I can’t stop, we are going keep walking every year for you Vaughnie, Jayla, and Andre, and all of the lives lost to violence. We need change and I’m going to keep reaching for it,” Carla Gaines-Robinson said. The Kierra Keeps Caring Foundation was developed in honor of Sha’Vaughn Kierra Wallace, who fell victim to gang violence in 2009. Since her untimely death, her family has continued to make a difference through her name within the community. The Foundation is on a mission
CARLA GAINES-ROBINSON speaking to everyone who came out for the annual anti-violence walk and community picnic. (Photo by J L. Martello) to reach out to parents and children to promote a positive quality of life for the youth. The Foundation seeks to build cohesiveness
amongst community members in order to eliminate the prevalence SEE KIERRA A5
C. Matthew Hawkins says
Blacks not part of Pittsburgh’s ‘comeback’ vision Opinion A6
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JULY 15-21, 2015
Dominican Republic’s ‘ethnic cleansing’ by Freddie Allen For New Pittsburgh Courier
WASHINGTON (NNPA) —A Dominican Republic court order last month threatens to force more than 200,000 Dominicanborn Haitians from their homes in an effort that many human rights watchers have called modern-day ethnic cleansing. Media outlets have reported that the government has announced plans to start deportation efforts deploying the military and transport vehicles in neighborhoods where Dominican-born Haitians live. The Dominican government officials also said that they would allow undocumented foreigners to begin the path to become naturalized citizens in the future. Ron Daniels, the president of the Institute of the Black World 21st Century, said that the treatment of Dominican-born Haitians, especially those working on the sugar plantations, is a festering cancer on the island of Hispaniola. “It’s really a schizophrenic relationship between the government of the Dominican Republic and the government of Haiti to ensure that Haitian migrants work in the sugar fields,” said Daniels. Bill Fletcher, a global justice activist, writer and the host of “The Global African” on Telesur-English, said that the tension between the two countries that share the island of Hispaniola dates back to the 18th century when French and Spanish colonists imported African slaves to the island to harvest sugar cane. After the successful slave rebellion on French-ruled western part of the island, Haiti declared its independence from France in 1804. Then in 1822, the Haitians invaded the Spanish-ruled east, in their minds, to unify the island and to end slavery, said Fletcher. Haitian military forces occupied what is now the Dominican Republic for more than twenty years. After their own war for independence, the Dominicans won their freedom from Haitian rule and declared their sovereignty in 1844. “There was a tension that existed and a deep suspicion that existed on the island of Hispaniola,” said Fletcher. “That tension ratcheted up with the regime of Rafael Trujillo.” Fletcher called Trujillo “a perfect example of self-hat-
This Week In Black History
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ing mulatto” and some historians claim that he even wore makeup and hair dyes in effort to appear more European. Fast-forward to 2010 Dominican lawmakers approved a constitutional amendment that denied citizenship to Dominican-born children whose parents, were considered “in transit,” often a result of their temporary and seasonal work status, even though many of them had long ago taken up residency in the Dominican Republic. Then, in 2013 a court stripped Dominican Haitians and their children of their citizenship unless they could prove their legal status prior to 1929. Others can request residency permits as foreigners or apply to become naturalized citizens, but for now more than 200,000 Dominican Haitians are effectively stateless, because most have lived in the Dominican Republic for generations and have no familial ties to Haiti or even speak French or Creole. Daniels said that the ugly backdrop to the self-hatred and racism, behind the constitutional amendment is the fact that many Dominicans share an African heritage. Many Dominicans who have shunned their African roots claim “Taíno” heritage for the indigenous people of Hispaniola that were all but wiped out when European settlers began to colonize the island. Fletcher said that they are right-wing elements within the Dominican Republic that are racist and
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xenophobic and focused on Haitians and the Haitian descendants as the source of the economic problems in the country. “There’s an anti-Haitian posture and attitude that permeates much of Dominican society that needs to change,” said Daniels, adding, “And if it can’t change through moral appeal, than it needs to change through our ability to exact pain,” through economic sanctions in the tourism industry. Daniels said that the lifeblood of the Dominican Republic is tourism and that’s where economic boycotts should start. Daniels noted the success of the threat of economic boycotts in Indiana after the state promoted a “Freedom of Religion” act that many people feared would allow businesses to discriminate against gays and lesbians. “People and companies decided to exercise a tourism boycott of that state and [Indiana state lawmakers] changed their tunes immediately,” said Daniels. “The Dominican Republic would change its tune immediately, if there were any effective challenge to its tourism or sanctions on its tourism. That message would change everything. We need to shut it down and they will change their tune.” Fletcher said that the growing humanitarian crisis in the Dominican Republic is not a situation where people should just close their eyes or turn to the sports page. “It’s important for steps to be taken to weaken the regime of the Dominican Republic to the point where they will never, ever consider such a horror again,” said Fletcher. “The next time an African American is thinking about taking a trip to the Dominican Republic, they should think twice. The next time that someone is considering a real estate investment in the Dominican Republic, they should think twice.” Fletcher added: “Sitting back and simply shaking your head is unacceptable and it’s not an option.”
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Week of July 15-21 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 IDA B. WELLS-BARNETT 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. RICHARD ALLEN 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 MUHAMMAD ALI Harry S. Truman commuted their sentences. July 18 1753—This is believed to be the day Lemuel Haynes escaped 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 efNELSON MANDELA forts 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. FREDERICK DOUGLASS 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-withWhites 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 JeanCharles 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 JOHN LEE HOOKER a full-fledged 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. 2001—Blues legend John Lee Hooker dies. He was 83.
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JULY 15-21, 2015
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After years of declining crime, a spike in city violence by Don Babwin Associated Press Writer
CHICAGO (AP)—Police departments across the country that have spent years boasting about plummeting crime numbers are now scrambling to confront something many agencies have not seen in decades: more bloodshed. Houston, St. Louis, New Orleans and Baltimore have all seen significant spikes in the number of homicides this year. The totals are up in other cities, too, including New York and Chicago. “We’re in scary territory,” said Peter Scharf, a professor at Louisiana State University who tracks homicides in New Orleans. In Los Angeles, the number of slayings dropped slightly, but the number of shooting victims jumped more than 18 percent. And in Milwaukee, a homicide on July 8 put the total for the year at 84—just two fewer than happened in all of 2014. It’s too soon to assess whether the surge in killing marks the start of a trend after years of declines. But concern is growing that the increase could reflect a confluence of recent shifts, including deepening distrust of police that leads people to settle disputes themselves, officers who are afraid of being second-guessed and court rulings that make it easier than ever to own a gun. Tighter budgets that result in cuts to law-enforcement agencies could also play a role. Some of the explanations vary from city to city. In Baltimore, the April death of Freddie Gray, a Black man who suffered a fatal spinal-cord injury while in police custody triggered rioting. After six officers were charged in Gray’s death, the number of arrests plummeted — a drop that raised questions about whether angry or fearful officers were slowing down their activity on the streets. Homicides skyrocketed, making May the city’s deadliest month in more than 40 years. Police Commissioner Anthony Batts, who
HONORING SON—In this July 6 file photo, Antonio Brown, father of Amari Brown, speaks near a sign honoring his son, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee, File) was fired July 18, attributed the violence partly to a flood of prescription drugs released into the community by pharmacy looting. He and the police union denied that officers were shirking their duties but acknowledged that police are frustrated. Other reasons apply more broadly. Police departments all over the country have closely watched the legal attack on stopand-frisk tactics in New York and the city’s subsequent decision to drop its appeal of a ruling by a judge who found the tactic sometimes discriminated against minorities. An American Civil Liberties Union study found similar practices in Chicago, where many observers expect a lawsuit to follow. “Maybe we don’t want hundreds of thousands of people stopped and frisked to get a few guns, and maybe we will have to accept that murders are going to go up 10
percent,” said Peter Moskos, a professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. “I don’t know, (but) we really do have to talk about the trade-offs.” Scharf also noted that the huge drop in homicides that occurred in the 1990s came at about the same time that federal dollars were flowing into police departments. So he wonders if the rise in violence might be tied in some way to the fact that much of that funding has dried up. The death of Eric Garner in New York at the hands of police and the shooting death of Michael Brown by an officer in Ferguson, Mo., have contributed to a distrust of police. And that distrust might be proving deadly. “A lot of retaliatory violence occurs because people don’t trust police. They don’t want to go to police because they don’t see police as helping them,” said Charis
Kubrin, a criminologist at the University of California at Irvine. “Crimes will occur, like a shooting, and no one will speak to police about it. And it just breaks down from there,” creating a cycle of violence. In Milwaukee and Chicago, police chiefs point to what they see as woefully inadequate gun laws that allow people who are repeatedly arrested on weapons charges to win release from custody—often around the same time the police officers are completing the paperwork on the arrest. “Career criminals with misdemeanor convictions for possession of a firearm can qualify for concealed carry permits,” said Milwaukee’s chief, Edward Flynn. In Chicago, the widespread gun violence— more than 500 homicides in 2012 and more than 400 in each of the last two years—has saddled the city with the moniker “Chiraq,” which is also the working title of a Spike Lee movie now being filmed. Meanwhile, the city has suffered legal losses in its efforts to keep guns out of the hands of residents and seen its attempts to stiffen gun laws thwarted by state lawmakers. A frustrated Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy said the laws are so toothless that gang members are more worried about being beaten up by their gangs for losing a gun than going before a judge after being caught with one. In the first quarter, police arrested 688 people for illegal firearms. By April 1, 60 percent of those people were already back on the street, McCarthy said. That frustration boiled over last week when he told reporters that a bullet that killed 7-year-old Amari Brown on July 4 was intended for his father, Antonio, whom police described as a gang member with nearly four dozen arrests, including one in April on a gun-possession charge. “If Mr. Brown is in custody,” the chief said, “his son is alive.” (Associated Press writers Rebecca Santana in New Orleans, Amanda Lee Myers in Los Angeles, Jim Suhr in St. Louis, and Dave Dishnau in Baltimore contributed to this report.)
50 Cent files for bankruptcy protection after losing lawsuit
by Pat Eaton-Robb Associated Press Writer
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP)—50 Cent filed for federal bankruptcy protection July 13, days after a jury ordered him to pay $5 million in an invasion-of-privacy lawsuit. The rapper-actor, whose real name is Curtis Jackson III, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in U.S. District Court in Hartford. He owns a 50,000square-foot mansion in nearby Farmington. The filing lists both the assets and liabilities for the “Get Rich or Die Tryin’” artist as between $10 million and $50 million and indicates his debts are primarily consumer and not business related. The filing comes after a New York jury on July 10 ordered Jackson to pay $5 million to a woman who said he acquired a video she made with her boyfriend, added himself as a crude commentator and posted it online without her permission. The jury this week was scheduled to deliberate on possible further, punitive damages in Lastonia Leviston’s invasion-of-privacy lawsuit against Jackson. But the filing may put the trial on hold. Jackson did not appear as scheduled on July 13 to testify about his finances because of the bankruptcy filing, his lawyer said. “Mr. Jackson’s business interests will continue unaffected in the ordinary course during the pendency of the Chapter 11 case,” attorney William A. Brewer III said
FILES FOR PROTECTION—In this May 17 file photo, 50 Cent arrives at the Billboard Music Awards at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. (Photo by Eric Jamison/Invision/AP, File) in a statement. “This filing for personal bankruptcy protection permits Mr. Jackson to continue his involvement with various business interests and continue his work as an entertainer.” The lawsuit stems from a 13-minute
video that appeared online in 2009, featuring a wig-wearing 50 Cent as a narrator dubbed Pimpin’ Curly. He makes explicit remarks about the images and taunts rap rival Rick Ross, who isn’t in the video but had previously had a daughter with Levis-
ton. At the time the video surfaced, Ross and 50 Cent were trading barbs via video, lyrics and interviews. Jackson got the tape from the man in it, Leviston’s boyfriend at the time. The rapper said that he didn’t actually post the video, but that Leviston’s then-boyfriend said she wouldn’t mind if he did. 50 Cent burst to the fore of gangsta rap with 2003’s “Get Rich or Die Tryin,” its lead single, “In Da Club,” and a tough life story that included having been shot nine times. Jackson is an admitted former crack dealer who has built an empire beyond entertainment. He invested early in Vitamin Water and has expanded his business interests into clothing and audio equipment. Now 40, he has gone on to become an actor whose credits include the Starz network action series “Power” and the upcoming boxing movie “Southpaw.” He also was named by Forbes last year as one of “Hip-Hops Five Wealthiest artists.” He bought his 17-acre home in Connecticut from boxer Mike Tyson in 2003 for $4.1 million. The house includes 19 bedrooms, more than two dozen bathrooms, a gym, billiard rooms, racquetball courts and a disco complete with stripper poles. It had been listed for sale in 2009 for $10.9 million, but is no longer on the market. (Associated Press writer Jennifer Peltz contributed to this story from New York.)
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Farewell to Adrionna observes birthday CONTINUED FROM A1
WALKING FOR HEALTHIER COMMUNITY—Members of various Hill District churches walk from their church to a pep rally at Freedom Corner. (Photos by J.L. Martello)
Hill walks for a healthier community CONTINUED FROM A1
nity, but it’s a whole different feeling that you get when they actually do it,” said Candi Castleberry Singleton, UPMC’s chief officer of diversity inclusion, which sponsors the 60-Day Challenge. “As the largest employer in southwestern Pennsylvania and health care system, this demonstrates our commitment to serve all kinds of communities as well as to create ways for health to be sustainable and not just something we think about when we’re sick.” Hill District 365, Singleton said, grew from a conversation with City Councilman Daniel Lavelle and state Rep. Jake Wheatley, who represent the Hill District neighborhood, and their want to make health more than just annual weekend celebration in September; they wanted a program where people could be encouraged to participate in local health services 365 days of the year. The initiative addresses five key areas of health— Body, Mind, Spirit, Home and Financial—all which can hand-in-hand, and together, neighborhood partners identify a health topic based upon the areas of health and work to spread awareness about it by offering health services, a monthly newsletter that identifies events and much more. Through Community 365 the initiative has expanded to Pittsburgh and Erie, where they each have their own initiatives and focus. Along with the Health Challenge, Singleton said Hill ministers have held conversations about addressing the issue of infant mortality and ways to improve infant birth health as well as chronic conditions affecting the African American community. Pittsburgh is focusing on
Correction In the July 8-14 edition we had a headline that read “Singleton leaving UPMC; Taking Diversity & Respect campaign national” It should have read Dignity & Respect campaign. It was correct in the story.
workforce development while Erie has implemented a “Cradle to Grave” program which is based on Temple University’s samenamed program, and address community violence and exposing youth to the impacts of gun violence. “People sometimes want to count brown people out because they think we don’t care about these kinds of things and because the data suggests that we don’t. But I think we can change the data and we can change the perception. We just have to make a commitment,” Singleton said. “And it doesn’t stop there, if we can do it for health, then we can do it for violence and we can do it for education.” During the HD 365’s 60Day Challenge, each of the participating teams—Trinity AME, St. Benedict the Moor, First Church of God & Saints of Christ, Calvary Baptist, Ebenezer Baptist, Wesley Center AMEZ, Macedonia Baptist, Central Baptist and Monumental Baptist Churches and The People’s Team—have been given a trainer, provided by 1 On 1 Personal Training and Fitness, operated by Charles Cook and located in the Strip District, and a customized program plan. They hold fitness sessions two to three times a week where they are taught exercises and proper forms as well as given healthy eating tips. There is even a Walking Worship Wednesday where participants hold a workout session at their churches and then walk to Freedom Corner for a peprally and prayer. Bi-weekly, participants are weighed in and have their blood pressure checked to track their status. By the end of the challenge, Aug. 13-15, the church as well as a participant from each church that has lost the largest percentage of weight will be awarded a monetary prize. The winning church, which will be announced in September at the annual Health & Wellness Weekend, will receive $2500 and the individual from each church will receive $250. “This is a communitybased health challenge that works through the churches first because the churches are the staple of
our communities,” said Cook. “We’re going to the church and challenging the churches to get healthy.” He added that the event is not just a walk, but also an opportunity to canvas the neighborhood in hopes of saving a life by bringing awareness about the importance of health. While she will no longer be apart of UPMC after September, Singleton said in the wrap-up weeks of the challenge she is collaborating on a plan “that will help keep people motivated in gray months when it’s ‘good food holidays.’ Because it’s not just the winter, it’s winter and macaroni and cheese; the months where it’s harder to be motivated and we are tempted by our favorite holiday treats.” By giving each of the participants tools that they can use at home, she said she hopes that they will continue the challenge long after August, or September, and even pass their new knowledge on to others. The 60-Day Challenge, Singleton said, would not be possible without UPMC’s sponsorship, Charles Cook and 1 On 1 Fitness’ infrastructure, the community’s commitment to “making it real, live and working.” The Hill District Health & Wellness Weekend will be held Sept. 11-13. (For more information on Healthy Communities 365, visit www.healthycommunities365.org.) (J.L. Martello contributed to this article.)
love her you guys. We don’t have to help her, but we can let her know we’re here and how can we just give up on her like that?” She closed with a statement of empathy on behalf of all single mothers. “I forgive you Adrienne because I know how hard it is to be a mother that struggles.” Minister Griffie, who gave what could be described as an unofficial eulogy stressed that human lives can’t be taken for granted. “Each and every one of us needs to take time to love our children. It says in the word life is like a vapor. When we walk out these doors God could do his business on each and every one of us. So if you know a child, you see a child, you love that child.” Minister Griffie believed that certain signs were not heeded that need to be paid closer attention to in the future, that possibly the way people interact with each other might need to change to prevent further tragedies. “There are certain things in our community we cannot stand for. This is a cry for help. We need to have people that can keep it real with us and say the ugly things like I’m not doing to good right now, and we need to be those people. We all know a single mother. We need to think how can I help you today. It might be take you to the store. It might be watch the kids, if you want to talk, just talk to them,” he said. Annie Bastogne owner of Fannie Mae’s Gifts was an organizer for the service. Like many, she was surprised by the turn of events over the course of the last month. “I reached out to Adrienne and her friend expressing my wanting to do something. It was the day after they found Adrionna’s body just expressing that I wanted to do something. To craft something for the memorial service.” Bastogne, who makes grave markers and keeps sakes said, “It’s extremely emotional, you never want to bury your young. We just need to recognize that it does take a village and be there.” The “It takes a village” was echied numerous times by the attendees who commented on Adrienne Williams’ fate. Dennis Jordan, a church member and concerned citizen remarked, “We need to do stuff like this even before a baby dies. I’m a single father, my son is five, so with young kids you have to have patience. “I think it’s great how everyone came to-
gether just to give the girl some love. Just to show you ain’t living without love, we love you; we might not know you but we love you because we got kids too and we think what if that was our child.” No members of the family were in attendance, choosing to have a private remembrance at home. Kirsten Coulon, best friend to Adrienne Williams and god mother to Adrionna Williams appeared with a message to everyone who would listen, stating that her best friend loved her daughter and could be innocent. “Adrionna was the basis for Adrienne’s life. Because she wouldn’t have finished school if she didn’t have her daughter, she wouldn’t have done a lot of things.” When asked if she ever saw a violent side of her she said no. “Adriene woke up to her daughter, they would take pictures and make videos. Her daughter was her life and everything she lived for so for this to happen I don’t understand it. Maybe we won’t ever understand and she is innocent until proven guilty so I’m just going with that right now.” She concluded “I was brought up in the church to always forgive, you can’t always hold a grudge against someone. I know I have sinned so many times. That was my best friend and my god-daughter so I’m here for her 100 percent.” While many felt that Adrienne was crying out for help and dealing with the stress of being a single mother, close family member’s posts on social media claim the opposite. “How were you struggling when you really didn’t take care of her? We had her. You only had her at night,” Adrienne Williams’ sister wrote. “Man, she was not struggling. ‘Onna was with us seven days a week. (The) only time she left was when her mom came and got her at night,” Adrionna’s uncle wrote. While all of the events Adrienne Williams is accused of are still alleged, Andre Scott, parishioner of Mulberry Community Church said, “It’s great that we could bring the community and children together so that we could show them how to celebrate life,” When asked if healing took place, Scott responded, “I feel like people are no longer strangers. So if we know each other, we can better protect each other and having that spiritual component, we definitely had some healing going on today.”
REMEMBERING ADRIONNA—Many hang out and talk about the life of the late Adrionna Williams after releasing balloons in her honor. (Photos by J.L. Martello)
Police officer channels outrage through his art CONTINUED FROM A1
it’s anti-police brutality,” he said. “Still, some could take it the wrong way—that happens.” Though the July 10 exhibit marked Sloan’s first overtly political contribution, it was his third time participating in the “Wall Paintings” event, which gives blank walls to local artists and allows them to create works while patrons wander through the gallery. This year’s event also included works by Steve Prince, Michael Pisano, Anna Mikolay, Derek Reese, Ramon Riley, Chris
McGinnis, Julie Stunden, Pat Bellan-Gillen, Melissa Kuntz, Julie Mallis and Mia Tarducci Henry. As for actual reviews of Sloan’s work, patrons walking through the gallery mostly confined their remarks to one-word reactions like “wow” or “intense.” One notable art critic, however, did not— Pittsburgh police Chief Cameron McLay, whom Sloan had informed of the project along with like Zone 5 Cmdr. Lando ahead of time. McLay released a statement on Sloan’s painting the following day.
It read: “I am proud of Alphonso for his courage, as well as his impressive artistic talents. To speak difficult truths shows courage and integrity. “The preservation of human live, all human lives, is the most foundational value in the policing profession. His statement against police misconduct is not an indictment of police, but a call to action for social justice for all, and his message is rooted in respect for humanity, something to which all police bureau members must subscribe. “Officer Alphonso Sloan is
but one example of the high-quality men and women in our bureau. He illustrates the diversity of abilities and skills our police officers contribute to the fabric of life here in Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh is lucky to have such public servants.” Sloan said the crowds were fantastic and that the few mentions he got from fellow officers were all positive. He wanted to thank them, and the chief. “That was definitely the best review I got,” he said. “Absolutely, it was good to hear.”
Society Men’s Grooming Lounge opens in Hill District CONTINUED FROM A1
lockers to store their preferred brands of liquor and cigars. Members also receive one free cut per year and can schedule one free event during any off-day. “The impetus for this was us getting good cuts in places that don’t offer the awards, that we as young businessmen, believe we deserve,” said Patterson. “Here, you can get a cut, manicure, pro detailing and order food from Savoy and it gets here faster than if you were there.” Patterson said he and Norman got input from family— and permission from their partners—before embarking on this venture. They then conducted focus groups with young professionals to determine what services people wanted and what they would pay for them. Then they pre-sold memberships, and acquired and ren-
SOCIALIZING—Guests enjoy the ambience while they vibe. (Photo by Rossano P. Stewart)
ovated the space at the intersection of Herron and Centre Avenues in the Hill. The result impressed Magisterial Judge Kevin Cooper Sr. so much, he scheduled the business’ first appointment before Patterson even arrived at the reception. Another person who was impressed was Patterson’s current barber, Tania Bailey, who works at her aunt’s salon in East Liberty. “These chairs are very comfortable, but I’m not leaving my aunt,” she said. “I’m hoping I don’t lose a client now that he has his own place, but he’s a friend so I had to come and support him.” Will Johnson, a marketing consultant and former business partner of Patterson’s, traveled from Chicago to attend the reception. “I was part of his Renaissance Group nonprofit about four years ago,” he said. “I
had to come back to support my old high school bud.” Shawn Robinson, who runs the Orange Arrow mentoring nonprofit, wasn’t going to miss the reception either—despite being on crutches and in a cast after spraining his ankle. “I have to support the fellows,” he said. “I always support good people doing good things.” Society Men’s Grooming Lounge is located at 503 Herron Ave., next to the former Dwelling House Saving and Loan. It is open Tuesday through Saturday, and is available for special events on Sundays and Mondays. For information or appointments call 412475-9226 or visit online at society412.com. “Everyone who leaves here will feel they have had an experience and quality of services that is bar none,” said Patterson.
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Community Calendar Guild Centennial Celebration JULY 17—The Harriet Tubman Guild Inc. will host its Centennial Celebration Black Tie Event at 5 p.m. at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, 101 Mall Blvd., Monroeville. This celebration dinner and dance event will honor 12 members who represent the spirit of the Guild’s original 12 members. There will also be an Open House on July 18 at the Harriet Tubman Terrace, 550 Negley Run Blvd., and a Worship Service on July 19 at Mt. Ararat Baptist Church. For more information, call 412-363-8422 or visit www.harriettubmanguildinc.org.
Anniversary Celebration JULY 18—Grandmothers of Pearls will host its 4th Anniversary Celebration from 3:30-6 p.m. at the Senior Center, 7321 Frankstown Ave., Homewood. Attendees must be a grandmother or greater and wear a pearl necklace, real or costume. There will be entertainment, informational and inspirational speakers, and refreshments. For more information, call Donna at 412-241-0166.
Youth Football Clinic JULY 19—Wilmerding/ McKeesport YMCA will host the Russell Stuvaints Youth Football Clinic from 2-4:30 p.m. at McKeesport High School, Weigle-Schaeffer Stadium, 1960 Eden Blvd., McKeesport. Youth ages 6-13 will learn needed football skills from former Pittsburgh Steelers safety Russell Stuvaints along with other former and current NFL and NCAA players. This event is free to the community. For more information, call Steve Nash at 412-8239000 and snash@ymcapgh.org.
Volunteers JULY 20—The Pittsburgh Bureau of Police are seeking volunteers to serve on panels that will interview potential police officer candidates from 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at Greenway Middle School, 1400 Crucible St., Pittsburgh. Through July 30, volunteers who are free of criminal convictions of a Misdemeanor 2 or higher and are willing to sing a confidentiality agreement will sit on an oral board interview panel. There will be a mandatory training July 20 from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Volunteers will be asked to commit two full days from July 21-30. Applications are available. For more information, call Cmdr. Ford at 412-323-7122.
JULY 15-21, 2015 A5
METRO
Macy’s Downtown closing by Christian Morrow Courier Staff writer
For more than a century there has been a retail store at 400 Fifth Avenue, Downtown. During the bulk of that history it was Kaufmann’s, and people met under its iconic clock for lunch or shopping dates— even after the Federated Department Sores bought it and reopened it as Macy’s in 2006. While the clock may remain, there will be no more department store shopping at the location as Macy’s announced July 13 it had sold the building to Philadelphiabased CORE Realty, which plans a $40-million, mixeduse redevelopment of the 1.2-million-square-foot building and adjacent annex. “This is a sad day for Pittsburgh,” said Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto in a statement. “While I wish we would have had the opportunity to save the store, I care most about the employees who have dedicated themselves to this store over many decades, and have made it their life’s work. I am grateful that Macy’s is offering new job possibilities to its longtime employees.” Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald also thanked the retailer for not abandoning its employees. “I, like so many other Pittsburghers, have fond memories of the downtown location, and am sad to hear today’s announcement. I was glad to hear from Macy’s leadership that opportunities are being made available to longtime employees, and that the new developer is aware of the location’s icons that we all hold dear and will be preserving those—including the iconic Kaufmann’s clock,” his statement read. Macy’s, which had twice previously reduced the space it was using in the massive building to about 240,000 square-feet, had been negotiating since last year to sell
CORE all but the first four floors of the structure. But in its July 13 announcement, Chief Stores Officer Jeff Kantor said they decided selling the whole building was the best option: “For the past four years, Macy’s has been investigating the best possible use for this property, especially given the large amount of unproductive and unused space on the upper floors...In late 2014, we began working with CORE Realty, which had an exciting vision for residential, hotel and parking on the upper floors and annex. More recently we decided to make the entire building available to CORE so it could evolve its plan into a more holistic project,” Kantor said. As for the 170 Downtown employees who will be affected, Kantor said associates would be offered positions in nearby stores where possible. Eligible associates laid off due to the closing will receive severance packages. About 30 associates working in district offices on the 11th floor would be relocated to other area stores. The plan CORE submitted to the Pittsburgh Planning Commission in May calls for cutting two Atria into the center of the building, from the roof to the seventh floor, to let in natural light for the innermost of 311 planned high-end apartments. It would also include amenities such as a rooftop pool, a restaurant and tennis courts. Rents for the studio, one- and two-bedroom units were projected at $1,000 to $2,000 per month. The plan also includes refiguring the basement to allow for parking 246 cars and 290 bicycles; it may also include a hotel. It remains to be seen how CORE will modify its plans to make use of the bottom four floors. Macy’s final clearance sale at the Downtown store will begin Monday, July 20 and is expected to run until September.
NEW DOLLAR TREE ON BRIGHTON AVENUE, IN THE NORTH SIDE. (Photo by J.L. Martello)
North Side Dollar Tree opens by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
Though it opened July 2 with little fanfare beyond a “Grand Opening” sign on the wall, Dollar Tree’s newest store on Brighton Avenue is already winning over neighborhood residents. One elderly gentleman who said his name was “Ray, just Ray,” rode his bicycle there—again. “I’ve been here every day since they opened,” he said, munching on some string cheese in the parking lot July 9. “It’s great. They’re close, and the prices are great.” Store manager Adam Baldinger said the company doesn’t do elaborate grand openings, but the store did give away some movie- and picnic-themed gift bags to customers ahead of the holiday weekend. “We’re still playing catchup because the holiday delayed one of our delivery trucks,” he said. “But the people are coming. It’s been good.” It’s been good enough that Baldinger had seven employees on the floor—checking out customers, stocking shelves and unloading a delivery truck—first thing on a Thursday morning. All are
young African Americans from the neighborhood. Assistant Manager Dominique Fancher said the response to the store’s opening has been exceptional. “It’s booming,” she said. “We’ve had way more people than we expected.” Dollar Tree is a real dollar store, in that nothing they carry sells for more than $1, and some things—namebrand candy bars—sell for $.79. The stores carry national and store brand grocery items, cosmetics, and health and beauty items. The 1516 Brighton Rd. store, however, also has a built in frozen and refrigerated foods cooler, a feature offered in just 3/5 of its 5454 stores across the continental U.S. and Canada. Even with this, Baldinger said the store would not compete with the Family Dollar store just 200 yards away because they carry entirely different products at much different price points. That’s good for both, because Dollar Tree announced July 6 that its $9.2 billion purchase of Family Dollar had been approved by the Federal Trade Commission and 17 states attorneys general, including Kathleen Kane, who had objected to the merger cre-
ating a potential monopoly. As part of the agreement, Dollar Tree will sell off 330 Family Dollar Stores to a competitor, 19 of which are located in Pennsylvania. Company spokesperson Shelly Davis would not comment on the Brighton Road Family Dollar other than to say the company plans to “ retain and grow both banners going forward.” “We’re very excited about the new Dollar Tree opening and pleased to be serving the community,” she said. Davis would not discuss “internals” but said at 8,500 square feet, the new store is average. “And while we don’t discuss individual stores, I can say one that size typically employees between 12 and 15 part-time and full time associates,” she said. She also declined to discuss salary ranges for new employees, but said anyone interested can visit their career center at www.dollartreeinfo.com or visit the store. Whether or not the acquisition will affect the Family Dollar, again, no one would comment. But from appearances, no one is very concerned—they are hiring, for full-time, part-time and managerial positions.
Kierra Keeps Caring
Humanae/I AM AUGUST JULY 22—The August Wilson Center for African American Culture will host the portrait-based art installation, “Humanae/I AM AUGUST” at the August Wilson Center, 980 Liberty Ave., Cultural District. Through July 25, the project seeks 150 individuals to have their portraits taken for the art installation that will feature the faces of Pittsburgh. There exhibit will be installed Sept. 25 for the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust Gallery Crawl and remain displayed through August 2016. Groups, churches and organizations are also welcome. Reservations are required. For more information, call Deesha Philyaw at 412-363-3000 or email deesha@kelly-strayhorn.org.
Financial Literacy Symposium JULY 25—The Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh’s Bank On Greater Pittsburgh in partnership with Neighborhood Allies will host a Financial Literacy Education Symposium from 8:30 a.m.5:30 p.m. at Hosanna House, 807 Wallace Ave., Wilkinsburg. There will be several breakout sessions, a proclamation and a gospel concert with Minister Trini Massie. This is free and open to the public, and reservations are required by July 17. For more information, call 412227-4191 or email BOGP@ulpgh.org.
Summer Enrichment Academy ONGOING—5A Elite Youth Empowerment will host a Summer Enrichment Academy from 68:30 p.m. at the Lincoln Park Community Center, 7300 Ridgeview Ave., Penn Hills. Every Friday through Aug. 28, youth ages 10-18 will participate in sports training, dance, peace building, personal awareness workshops and dinner. This is free and registration is required. For more information, call 412867-5889. (To have items listed on Community Calendar, send information at least two weeks in advance to: 315 E. Carson St., Pittsburgh, PA 15219; Fax: 412-481-1360 or email: newsroom@newpittsburghcourier.com.)
FULL-TIME SEASONAL CONTACT REPRESENTATIVES WALKING IN MEMORY OF THE LATE SHA’VAUGHN WALLACE. (Photo by J.L. Martello) CONTINUED FROM A1
of violent acts against youth. During the Walk 4 Life fundraising event, participants had the opportunity to engage in a celebration cookout and celebrate with some of Wallace’s family, friends, caring members of the community and more. Those who participate in the Walk 4 Life every year must register online. The Kierra Keeps Caring Foundation, Walk 4 Life designed t-shirts flooded the venue, as hundreds throughout the city gathered to celebrate the life of Sha’Vaughn Kierra Wallace in the 2K Run/Walk and all those who have fallen victim to violence. “I thank all my faithful patrons who participated in the 6th Annual Walk 4 life,” Gaines-Robinson said. This year, the beautiful talented Wallace would have celebrated her 25th birthday. In honor of a tremendous young woman, those who loved her laced up their tennis shoes and walked for the life of Wallace, Gaines-Robinson said. “I couldn’t think of a better way to bring people together, to celebrate such a breathe-taking remarkable young woman,” Brittany Thompson said. “Sha’Vaughn impacted my life long ago, and she does still. The event was beautiful,
and so was the weather. The warmth from the sun was Sha’Vaughn smiling looking down on us.” All proceeds from the walk went towards the Kierra Keeps Caring Foundation. “No words can explain how my heart hurts for my friend, family, and big sister Carla every year!” Danielle Brown said. “She exemplifies strength and perseverance at all times, despite having to deal with a parents greatest loss. I love you and admire you.” Wallace was a graduate of Schenley High School in 2008. After completing High School, she went on to pursue higher education at Indiana University of Pennsylvania where she majored in Business and minored in Music. She had big dreams to pursue a career in entertainment. Unfortunately, when she completed her freshman year of college, she returned to her home town for the summer. Only two weeks into her summer break, May 22, 2009 she became an innocent victim to gang violence while in the North Side area of the city. To date, her legacy continues to live on through the commitment of family and friends with Kierra Keeps Caring Foundation. (J.L. Martello contributed to this story.)
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A6
JULY 15-21, 2015
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
OPINION
Parenting mentors needed
Guest Editorial
Something special happening in Philadelphia Something is happening here, in Philadelphia. The NAACP opens its 106th national convention this weekend in Center City and it doesn’t lack for relevant topics concerning the lives of Black folk. From Ferguson, Mo., to Charleston, S.C., this year refocused the plight of African Americans in this country like few in recent memory. The “Black Lives Matter” movement sprung into prominence shortly after the conclusion of last year’s NAACP convention. Now, after a year of Black men dying in police custody, including Walter Scott, who was shot six times in the back by a North Charleston, S.C. policeman in April after a traffic stop. And, after the massacre of nine Black people in the basement of a South Carolina church in June by a self-professed racist who idolized the Confederate flag. The preeminent civil, human rights organization in the country may have its say. Something’s happening here. In two months, the pope, the leader of 1.2 billion Catholics worldwide will come to Philadelphia. The pontiff included Philadelphia on his first trip to America as pope. He’ll have his say on global warming and inequality, among other things, and he’ll do it here. And then, there’s the 2016 Democratic nominating convention, at which a candidate will be chosen for president. Part of a national debate on the future direction of this country will officially be decided here. Sometimes, it seems, certain places become a nexus. Certain places can become a lens for bringing the future into focus. It’s certainly not because we don’t have our own problems here. The pope can certainly find plenty of examples of inequality here, a place where nearly 30 percent of the population lives in poverty—the highest percentage in the nation. And the NAACP won’t have to look far for problems with policing. This is a city which was recently taken to task by the Justice Department for excessive police shootings and other mayhem. But this is also the place where the great American balancing act of democracy for all was born, while many of the guys writing the document parked their slaves nearby. Still, even with the contradictions back then, this place was a nexus. Maybe it will be again. (Reprinted from the Philadelphia Tribune)
Letters to the editor for publication The New Pittsburgh Courier welcomes all responsible viewpoints for publication. All letters should be typewritten and contain writer’s address and phone number for verification. All letters will be edited for clarity and length. Address all letters to: Letters to the Editor New Pittsburgh Courier 315 East Carson Street Pittsburgh, Pa. 15219 You may fax your letter to 412-481-1360, or via email to letters@newpittsburghcourier.com.
Pittsburgh Courier NEW
Founded 1910
Rod Doss
Editor & Publisher Stephan A. Broadus Assistant to the Publisher
Allison Palm
Eric Gaines
Office Manager
Advertising Manager
Ulish Carter
Ashley Johnson Associate Editor
Managing Editor
Jeff Marion Circulation Consultant
John H. Sengstacke Editor & Publisher Emeritus (1912-1997)
What would cause a woman to kill her own child? Apparently that is what happened in the case of Adrianne Williams who was arrested for the murder of her daughter Adrionna Williams. Apparently the raising of a daughter without a husband or family support was too much for her. Yet relatives say on Social Media that she had plenty of help from family, hers and the fathers. But even if she didn’t have help what about putting the child up for adoption? Wow, what if my mother had said that. She had six kids with most of her family in Tennessee and she was in Illinois. Yet she, like most Black mothers, hung in there through the worst of times. She did threaten to kill us at times. I may be old school but don’t females think about this before they have unprotected sex? With all the contraceptives out there today, why would you have unprotected sex? Come on now, you are telling me that with all the single homes in the Black communities these females don’t know that there’s a 90 percent chance the male is not going to be around after sex. Most of these women are from broken homes. This woman allegedly killed her child, which is as bad as it gets. But there are a whole lot of other mothers out there basically allowing their kids to raise themselves. That is why there is so much killing and violence in the streets of every urban community, both large cities and even small towns. Blacks are killing each other at record pace, to the point they are the Killing Fields of America. Some are almost as bad as the Middle East. Babies are having babies, and then those babies are having babies with no training of how to be a parent, or how precious a child is. Some are blaming the violence on unemployment and under-employment but is it really? I have lived and read about the history of Blacks from the beginning of
Ulish Carter
Just Sayin’
wouldn’t disappear after; it use to be a few years, but now it’s a few months. I don’t even ask where’s the father anymore? I sometimes wonder how my grandparents did it. On my mother’s side there were eight kids, and on my fathers’ side there were seven kids. But there were two parents, father and mother. Today that’s rare, yet girls are still having babies. There are also a lot of females out there having babies for themselves. Then they find out this is not as easy as they thought. This is not a cute dog or pet. There are some females out there who will flat out tell you they want a child, not really caring about whom the father is. Every parent should tell their sons to never assume the females are using contraceptives, and they should tell their daughters to never depend on the male having contraceptives, always have your own. Where is the church in all this? The church teaches all of us that sex out of wedlock is a sin. Good, but do we stop there? Since most of us who grew up in the church are or were having sex out of wedlock is the church excused because “I told you so?” No. As a part of Sex Education, which every church should have as a part of its Bible Study, youth should be taught about marriage, divorce, and the responsibility of raising or having a child. And even though the bible says no sex until after marriage, what about the 98 percent who are having sex or will be having sex out of wedlock? Do we forget them in the church? Why not teach them how to protect themselves from having an unplanned baby or a deadly disease. Can you imagine growing up in a home where the father isn’t there and the mother doesn’t want you? That has to be hell on earth. And we wonder why there’s so much violence in the streets and homes.
slavery to today, and at no period of American history have Colored People, Negroes, Black People or African Americans not struggled to survive as a whole. Times have never been good for us as a whole in this country, but we weren’t in the streets killing each other at the rate we are now. A wise man, Hop Kendrick, hit the nail on the head. He said that nothing is going to change in the Black community until something is done in the home. There is a need for two parents in the home. Most mothers are doing a great job, but God set it up for there to be two parents. I agree. I believe that it’s the lack of home training, but nobody wants to hear this. Men who are trying to get every woman they see in bed regardless of the consequences and don’t want to hear it. Nor do the females who sleep with males unprotected. Is this 2015 or 1915? There are many mentoring programs popping up for our youth in education, but there should be just as many for educating our youth, both males and females, on parenting. Babies aren’t just something cute to have, they are a lot of trouble and they take a lot of time and money, and are a lifetime commitment. We need mentoring programs that teach males and females what parenting entails, what to do to prevent having an unplanned child. We need them because we can no longer depend on the parents or the grandparents. We need classes that teach the difference (Ulish Carter is the managing editor of the between falling in love, and falling in lust. If it wasn’t lust then men New Pittsburgh Courier.)
Standing for righteousness and against the Confederate Flag (NNPA)—The Confederate battle flag flies over the grounds of the South Carolina state Capitol no more. The end-result of an emotional debate in the state’s legislature was Gov. Nikki Haley’s July 9th signing bipartisan legislation ordering the flag’s removal to the nearby state-supported Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum, and that long-overdue act being carried out last Friday. Numerous analysts have rightly noted the stunning speed with which the public-sector and private-sector rationale for displaying the marker of White supremacy and a treasonous rebellion eroded. There’s no question that indicates a sizeable number of white Americans in the South—including many White elected officials—and elsewhere had already determined for themselves the flag doesn’t deserve public sanction. They were awaiting the moment when something would happen to clearly indicate the time to force the issue had come. The impassioned speeches of those South Carolina state legislators who called for the Confederate flag’s removal bring to mind the powerful warning the novelist William Faulkner spoke in 1955 as the White South’s leadership was making perfectly clear its murderous intent to resist the fledgling Civil Rights Movement. “We accept insult and contumely and the risk of violence because we will not sit quietly by...” Faulkner, a native Mississippian, began, referencing the threats made against those Southern Whites who urged accepting Blacks’ demands for equal rights. He continued, “We speak now against the day when our Southern people who will resist to the last these inevitable changes in social relations will, when they have been forced to accept what they at one
Lee A. Daniels
Commentary
chose to try to live up to its Constitutional promise of tolerance and equality in spirit and in law. America stands at another such moment today. The difference is that today the struggle for America’s future is being waged on multiple fronts against those who think they can hold back the forward sweep of History, or who exercise a cowardly pragmatism and remain silent when they should speak up. Indeed, as if to deliberately underscore that reality, at nearly the very moment Democratic and Republican legislators in South Carolina were joining forces in their historic vote, a group of House Republicans in Congress were sneaking an amendment into a funding measure for the federal Department of the Interior to block the agency from banning Confederate memorabilia in national cemeteries. When Democrats furiously objected, House Speaker John Boehner, the Ohio Republican, abruptly halted consideration of the entire measure. Then he and the rest of the GOP bloc began running for cover. Although the pro-Confederate amendment was supposedly the work of “some southern members of the Republican Caucus,” neither Boehner nor others in the House leadership identified them. But, in one sense, it’s not necessary to identify that particular set of cowards. What is important is for each American to answer the declarative question Democratic Rep. Al Green, of Texas, in words that echoed Faulkner’s, sternly told his House colleagues Americans in the future would ask: “Where did you stand when you had a chance to stand for righteousness? I stand against this symbol. I stand for the American flag. I stand for justice.”
time might have accepted with dignity and good will, say, ‘Why didn’t someone tell me this before? Tell us this in time?’” Gov. Haley and all those who spoke for the flag’s removal were following Faulkner’s warning. They were speaking now against the day. But we should remember all the roots of last week’s action in South Carolina. Let us remember that it stands on a mountain of scholarly studies and popular histories that have rescued the truth about the Confederacy and its symbols and its documents from the poison pens and phony justifications of White-racist historians and propagandists. Let us remember that the demands to take down that flag began 54 years ago when South Carolina’s segregationist leaders raised it to underscore their “massive resistance” to treating Black South Carolinians as equally as White South Carolinians. And, finally, let us also remember that it was directly “paid for” by nine Black Americans and their families and their church, whose history of Christian forbearance and compassion embodies the simultaneously humane and defiant spirit of one of the Civil Rights Movement’s fervent anthems: “Ain’t gonna let nobody turn me ‘round.” Faulkner spoke at a moment of high (Lee A. Daniels is a longtime journalist drama in the history of America, when the nation was both forced to and based in New York City.)
Blacks not part of Pittsburgh’s ‘comeback’ vision by C. Matthew Hawkins Time Magazine’s “Pittsburgh’s Comeback” video is a striking piece of work that romanticizes Pittsburgh’s potential niche in the so-called “New Economy”—even the commercials for the video promote financial derivatives, or as Warren Buffett famously called them “financial weapons of mass destruction,” which is the hallmark of the new economy—but the video is roundly being criticized for its lack of diversity. But this is Pittsburgh. You cannot show what you do not have. Although Blacks are well represented in sports and entertainment, when it comes to diversity within the leadership of financial, medical and technological activity the City of Pittsburgh is stunningly deficient. I think there are a number of reasons for this,
among them the racial insularity of Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods and social circles, exclusionary social networks of power and influence, and the inherent nature of uneven development which typifies the new economy model. To me the problem is not so much the lack of diversity reflected in the videos, but it is in the blasé attitude with which many Pittsburgher’s approach this lack of diversity. The problem is that Pittsburgher’s don’t even see their own lack of diversity and inclusion, even though it is plainly evident to any outsider. If one doesn’t see the problem then one should forget about the prospects for finding solutions. Changes in Pittsburgh’s key institutions, to develop untapped human potential, will not be forthcoming. Whether done intentionally or by indifference, the current trend seems to
be to price large portions of Pittsburgh’s population—especially working class African Americans—out of their homes, to gentrify city neighborhoods, and to relocate the “surplus” population into the Mon Valley—or to prison. Whether or not one believes that Pittsburgh, or any city, may stage a “comeback” based on the new economy model I will leave to the reader to decide. The problem that I see, however, is that a very clear picture has emerged of who will not be part of that comeback and that too many Pittsburghers don’t even acknowledge that this happening—or aren’t troubled by it. (C. Matthew Hawkins was the Associate Director for Homewood Brushton Revitalization and Development Corporation and taught in the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work. He is currently a seminarian studying theology for the Pittsburgh Catholic Diocese.)
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
The Confederacy’s ‘heritage’ of slavery (NNPA)—The disclosure that Dylann Roof, the admitted killer of nine unarmed African Americans attending Bible study at Emanuel A.M.E. Church June 17 in Charleston, S.C., was photographed dozens of times holstering the rebel flag ignited a long overdue discussion on what that flag represents and prompted the removal of the flag from the state Capitol grounds in Columbia, S.C. after more than 50 years. An examination of the documents of the states that seceded from the Union, beginning with South Carolina, as well as the statements and documents surrounding those traitorous acts made clear the rebels were primarily worried about one thing—their ability to maintain and expand the institution of slavery. But Americans, including many Blacks, casually toss about the term “slavery” without comprehending the extent of its cruelty. Below are excerpts from the website history.com that will serve as a reminder: Slavery in America began when the first African slaves were brought to the North American colony of Jamestown, Virginia, in 1619, to aid in the production of such lucrative crops as tobacco. Slavery was practiced throughout the American colonies in the 17th and 18th centuries, and African-American slaves helped build the economic foundations of the new nation. The invention of the cotton gin in 1793 solidified the central importance of slavery to the South’s economy. By the mid19th century, America’s westward expansion, along with a growing abolition movement in the North, would provoke a great debate over slavery that would tear the nation apart in the bloody American Civil War (1861-65). Though it is impossible to give accurate figures, some historians have estimated that 6
George E. Curry
Commentary to 7 million slaves were imported to the New World during the 18th century alone, depriving the African continent of some of its healthiest and ablest men and women. In the 17th and 18th centuries, black slaves worked mainly on the tobacco, rice and indigo plantations of the southern coast. After the American Revolution (1775-83), many colonists (particularly in the North, where slavery was relatively unimportant to the economy) began to link the oppression of black slaves to their own oppression by the British, and to call for slavery’s abolition. Slavery did not dominate the economy of the North like it did the South. Over a 30-year period from 1774 until 1804, each northern state abolished slavery. Though the U.S. Congress outlawed the African slave trade in 1808, the domestic trade flourished, and the slave population in the U.S. nearly tripled over the next 50 years. By 1860 it had reached nearly 4 million, with more than half living in the cotton-producing states of the South. Slave owners sought to make their slaves completely dependent on them, and a system of restrictive codes governed life among slaves. They were prohibited from learning to read and write, and their behavior and movement was restricted. Many masters took sexual liberties with slave women, and rewarded obedient slave behavior with favors, while rebellious slaves were brutally punished. Even against tremendous odds and at a distinct disadvantage, enslaved Africans rebelled every way possible, including taking up arms. The most famous rebellions involved Gabriel Prosser in Richmond, Va.; Denmark Vesey in Charleston, S.C. and the most famous was one led by Nat Turner in 1831. Turner’s group, which grew to approximately 75 men, went from farm to farm in Southampton County, Va., killing more than 50 White slaveholders over two days. When they were captured, the men were immediately killed by White slave owners who had formed militias. Turner eluded capture for two months. When caught, he was quickly tried and hung. Free blacks and other antislavery northerners had begun helping fugitive slaves escape from southern plantations to the North via a loose network of safe houses as early as the 1780s. This practice, known as the Underground Railroad, gained real momentum in the 1830s and although estimates vary widely, it may have helped anywhere from 40,000 to 100,000 slaves reach freedom. The South would reach the breaking point …when Republican candidate Abraham Lincoln was elected as president. Within three months, seven southern states had seceded to form the Confederate States of America; four more would follow after the Civil War (1861-65) began. Though Lincoln’s antislavery views were well established, the central Union war aim at first was not to abolish slavery, but to preserve the United States as a nation. Abolition became a war aim only later, due to military necessity, growing antislavery sentiment in the North and the selfemancipation of many African Americans who fled enslavement as Union troops swept through the South. Five days after the bloody Union victory at Antietam in September 1862, Lincoln issued a preliminary emancipation proclamation, and on January 1, 1863, he made it official that “slaves within any State, or designated part of a State…in rebellion,…shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free.” (George E. Curry, former editor-in-chief of Emerge magazine, is editor-in-chief of the NNPA and BlackPressUSA.com. He can be reached through his Web site, www.georgecurry.com.)
JULY 15-21, 2015 A7
FORUM
Charles ‘Chuck’ Powell should be MBE Czar Underemploycreate a meaningment and unem- Louis ‘Hop’ Kendrick ful MBE program. ployment continFirst the Alues to be a major legheny County concern and a Executive and the problem across Mayor of PittsA l l e g h e n y burgh must County, particudemonstrate they larly in the Black have a genuine communities. The sense of commitdaily news regument by appointlarly enlightens the readers about the ing a capable, concerned independent inbuilding and construction projects that dividual to the position of Czar. If they are occurring or will occur in the near fu- continue to hire people to run the proture. There are billions of dollars of con- gram who need the salary or years to struction taking place in East Liberty, make pension they will never be chalthe Strip District, South Side, Down- lenged or ever question even when they town and everywhere else you look, but are wrong. How is that issue to be reyou and I are not included. solved? Hire Charles “Chuck” Powell, A couple of years ago Pittsburgh was who after 24 years of being employed at discussing a reorganization of a weak in- the Urban Redevelopment Authority effective MBE program and contemplat- has earned his pension. Chuck is more ing the idea of wasting money and effort knowledgeable than any other person by doing a nationwide search. If you re- about contractors, Black and White, the call there was speculation that County entire process as it relates to contracExecutive Rich Fitzgerald and the “Un- tors, developers, tax credits and has the dercover Boss” Mayor Bill Peduto were commitment and the independence to going to have a joint MBE program. The stand and be counted. amount of tax dollars that are expended I have never recommended any man or on contracts is staggering and almost woman to the County Executive or the unbelievable. However the fact that Mayor for any position, but the situation Blacks are denied their fair share of tax is so critical that I am compelled. The money is unbelievable. I continue to absence of family supporting employvoice my concern and there are a limited ment among my brothers and sisters is number of other knowledgeable Blacks an overwhelming factor in the turmoil who also voice their concerns, but our that exists in our communities. (Louis “Hop” Kendrick is a weekly contributor voices are not forceful enough. Allow me to explain what is required to to the Forum page.)
To Tell The Truth
Simon of Cyrene, the Nazis, and Darfur Here’s a hypoNow the Gerthetical case. J. Pharoah Doss man prosecutor is Suppose after seeking 3? years the crucifixion in prison (Yes, he’s members of the charged by the Jesus movement German governsought retribument. They want tion for the sento clear their contence of Christ. science of the But Pontius PiThird Reich.) belate and the plotcause Groening ting Pharisees were dead. Then the accepted defense for decades (He never Jesus movement discovered Simon of killed anyone) is no longer acceptable Cyrene, the cross carrier for Christ, was due to the legal precedent established in still alive. They arrested him and the 2011 John Demjanjuk trial in Mucharged him with crimes against Chris- nich. tianity. But Simon challenged the legalDemjanjuk was accused of being a ity of the charge. He said he couldn’t guard at another Nazi death camp recommit a crime against something that sponsible for the liquidation of 250,000 didn’t exist during the time in question. people. There was no evidence linking Realizing they had no legal precedent him to the participation of murder at the his accusers changed the charge to mur- camp, there was no one alive to testify at der. Simon stated he never touched the his trial, but he was convicted just beconvict. cause the German authorities said he Then he was charged with participa- was there. tion. Simon said he wasn’t at the trial Is this illogical? Or have you been emoand never shouted crucify him. Realiz- tionally compromised because it’s the ing Simon was right again they finally holocaust and agree with the logic of the charged him with being at the scene of attorneys for the plaintiffs that Groenthe execution. He was found guilty and ing shares responsibly for the co-plainsentence to prison. tiffs life long suffering. Maybe the only I’m sure you would agree the outcome logic is the words of a philosopher, “The of this case is illogical. tragedy of the world is that men have But what if the defendant was a given first-class loyalty to second-class Roman soldier casting lots for the gar- causes and these causes have betrayed ments of Christ? This soldier never ham- them.” mered a nail. He just stood guard. But Meanwhile Sudan’s President Omar he was charged and sentenced for being al-Bashir attended an African Union a member of the Roman army. I’m sure summit meeting in South Africa. you would agree this outcome is illogical Bashir is the only sitting head of state too. Now I challenge you to remain con- wanted for genocide, war crimes, and sistent and find the next case illogical crimes against humanity for 300,000 which is not hypothetical. people dead and 2.5 million displaced Recently in Germany Oskar Groening, in Darfur. But he was granted immu94, labeled by the press, “The Book nity from arrest by the South African Keeper or Accountant of Auschwitz” government because some African gov(Nazi camp responsible for over a mil- ernments believe the International lion deaths) was charged with being an Criminal Court has unfairly focused on accessory of over 300,000 murders. His African leaders. duties at Auschwitz were to process the When Bashir fled Johannesburg back prisoners and sort through their belong- to the safety of the Sudanese capital ings. (For money and other valuables to Nelson Mandela’s human rights legacy be shipped back to Berlin.) He per- left South African too. formed these duties for two years until But I wonder how the logic behind his request for a transfer to the front Bashir’s immunity was worded. They lines was granted in 1944. probably said, “Like the death camp Groening has admitted guilt in being a guards, Groening and Demjanjuk, Presipart of the Nazi machinery or the daily dent Bashir never killed anyone, but unoperations of the death camp but he said like those two monsters Bashir had the he never killed or hurt anyone. decency not to be there.”
Commentary
Benjamin F. Chavis Jr.
Commentary
Connecting the Orangeburg and Charleston massacres (NNPA)—History is more than a cumulative knowledge of the facts of the past. For Black Americans and for African people in particular all over the world, history is also the sacred depository or record of a calendar of events that have contributed to the defining moments of our long struggle for liberation, freedom, justice, equality and empowerment. Certainly the state of South Carolina is one of those many places where the awful brutal bloody sacrifices, as well as the resilient achievements of Black Americans, are well documented and remembered. While we have finally witnessed the taking down of the racist Confederate flag from the state Capitol grounds in Columbia, S.C., we should all pause to understand the deeper implications for the present and future struggle to challenge the persistence of racism and racial injustice in America. We salute the successful efforts of all those sisters and brothers in South Carolina and their allies to get the Confederate flag taken down. Of course that hateful symbol of African slavery, genocide and oppression still flies high in the hearts and minds of too many who still live in the state and elsewhere in the nation. Thus, we must remain vigilant and steadfast in our determination to advance the cause of freedom and equality. The truth is that the June 17 racist terrorist massacre of nine Black Americans in Charleston inside of Mother Emanuel A.M.E. Church was not the first modern day massacre of Black Americans in South Carolina. We must also remember that on February 8, 1968 on the campus of South Carolina State University in Orangeburg, three Black American students were shot to death and more than 40 other young Black Americans were wounded in what became known as the “Orangeburg Massacre.” At the time, South Carolina State University was one the leading Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the nation both academically and athletically. As a college student in North Carolina during that period and working for Dr. Martin Luther King and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), I well remember that dreadful day when we heard about the massacre. South Carolina Highway Patrolmen had indiscriminately fired shot guns, rifles and pistols at group of 200 unarmed Black American high school and college students who had peacefully assembled on the campus of South Carolina State University Feb. 8, 1968 to protest segregation of the All Star Bowling Lane. My good friend and young leader of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) Cleveland Sellers Jr. was one of those injured and the only person convicted and jailed in connection with the protest. Today, Sellers is the president of Voorhees College in Denmark, S.C., the city of his birth. At a recent meeting of HBCU presidents in Hilton Head, S.C. under the auspices of the National Association For Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO), I listened carefully to Sellers as he reminded the gathering about the Orangeburg Massacre and its relevance to last month’s Charleston Massacre. Sellers cautioned, “We must remember that what happened in Charleston is not isolated from what happened to us in 1968 in Orangeburg.” What will be raised up now in South Carolina? Will the state’s HBCUs receive adequate funding from the state legislature now that the flag is down? Have we seen the last of the House Budget Committee proposal to close South Carolina State University, the only public HBCU in South Carolina, for two years and fire all school administrators and trustees under the guise of allowing the university to reorganize its troubled finances? Will there be an end to racially motivated police brutality in South Carolina? Will there be more overall racial equality and justice in South Carolina in the aftermath of the Charleston Massacre? We know these questions are not relevant just for the people who live in South Carolina. The questions concerning racial justice and equality are national questions that should continue to be raised and must be answered. Why is that some of us have to die tragically before there can emerge a momentary sense of national empathy and solidarity for the cause of equal justice? From the massacres in Orangeburg to Charleston, S.C., we will not relent. We will not forget. We will not be silent. Instead, we will press on to make sure that the oppressive deaths of our sisters and brothers in South Carolina and throughout the world will not be in vain. One day we will overcome the oppression and the racism. Let’s rededicate ourselves to advance the freedom struggle. A luta continua! (Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. is the president and CEO of the National NNPA and can be reached for national advertisement sales and partnership proposals at: dr.bchavis@nnpa.org.)
NAACP ends its 15-year economic boycott of S.C
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JULY 15-21, 2015
COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP)—The NAACP has lifted its 15-year economic boycott of South Carolina a day after the state took down a Confederate battle flag flying near the Statehouse. The civil rights organization passed a resolution, July 11, at its national convention in Philadelphia to end the boycott of tourism and other economic activity. The boycott started in 2000 during debate over the flying of the Confederate flag atop South Carolina’s Statehouse dome. The boycott remained after the flag was moved to a flagpole on Statehouse grounds.
Central State covers Cosby name on sign WILBERFORCE, Ohio (AP)—An historically Black college in southwest Ohio says it has covered up Bill Cosby’s name on a campus sign in front of a building named for him. Edwina Blackwell Clark, a spokeswoman for Central State University in Wilberforce, tells the Dayton Daily News that the school has covered up Cosby’s name on a sign in front of the Camille O. and William H. Cosby Mass Communications Center. The university said earlier last week that it was considering changing the name of the building. A final decision could be made this fall. In newly unsealed documents, Cosby testified in 2005 that he obtained quaaludes with the intent of giving them to women before sex. The Cosby family has donated more than $1 million to the university.
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
NATIONAL
FBI: Dylann Roof should not have been able to buy a gun
MIKE BROWN EXHIBIT (Courtesy Photo/Instagram)
Radical Mike Brown exhibit opens in Chicago by Terry Shropshire For New Pittsburgh Courier
CHICAGO—It is a jarring and disquieting sight to see an exhibit of Mike Brown lying motionless and lifeless, even if it is a new art exhibit about the fatal and controversial shooting in Ferguson that is on display in Chicago. The piece features a life-size portrayal of Michael Brown after he was killed last year in suburban St. Louis. Among the artifacts included in the exhibit is a Black statue of liberty and a noose dangling from a neon sign. Brown is the first of a series of nationally-televised and enraging episodes of unarmed Black men that
took place within the last year or so, which also includes the Eric Garner police-choke-hold death in the Staten Island borough of New York City, the Freddy Gray death while in police custody in Baltimore and the Nicholas Thomas shooting death by police while in a Maserati in suburban Atlanta. The exhibit also features a plaque with the words “I Can’t Breathe,” referencing Garner’s police involved death in New York. Interestingly enough, a White woman from New Orleans created the exhibit, which a Brown family member praises. She says it represents White privilege in America and how it negatively affects the Black community. The exhibit runs through Aug. 10.
According to FBI Director James Comey, Dylann Roof, the man who allegedly shot dead nine people in Charleston, S.C.’s Emanuel AME Church, would have never been able to purchase the gun he used during the attack if the background check were conducted correctly. In a shocking admission, Comey found that the FBI made a clerical error in Roof ’s paperwork between the police department and the counties after reviewing facts on the case. Roof had confessed to having drugs in a previous arrest, so he should not have been allowed to purchase the weapon he used for the shooting. But the National Instant Criminal Background Check System agent conducting the search could not find which county Roof had been arrested in or if Roof had a criminal history. Because the background check took more than three days, the store where Roof was purchasing the gun was allowed to sell it to him. Roof used a .45 caliber handgun during the shooting and stopped numerous times to reload. Most were killed, except for a young girl who played dead to save herself and a woman left alive to relay what had happened after the shooting. Comey is now leading a review of the FBI’s inspection unit that is supposed to be finished within the next 30 days. He will be convening with the families of the church shooting victims to explain the issue and inform them of what the future may hold for the FBI. (SOURCE: CNN)
New Pittsburgh Courier
mother speaks on her beautiful locks B3
Wiz Khalifa’s
LIFESTYLES JULY 15-21, 2015
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
interfaith celebration of Ramadan B2
Islamic Center’s
B
Debbie Norrell
Lifestyles Report
News from the Internet I try not to believe in conspiracy theories, but sometimes I am convinced that “the news” that we receive is designed to mask the things that are important. The number one story that I have not bothered to comment on is the transition of Bruce Jenner aka Kaitlyn, where he graced the cover of Vanity Fair—I was astounded. On the cover he looked good, thanks to a good job of airbrushing. However, when you see photos that have not been airbrushed he looks horrible. I am not opposed to anyone in the LBGT community. I am a big fan of RuPaul and Laverne Cox, who both wear being a woman well. RuPaul actually looks good as both. Perhaps the issue is how we were introduced to both. With Jenner our introduction was via the Olympics as a man. There are two other men who are transgender, both are helicopter pilots in California. Ironically they worked for rival television stations during the O. J. Simpson slow speed chase, it seems their sex change has brought them closer together. They too look awful as women. Look in the mirror guys, you looked better as gay men than women. As they say on the Internet, “I’m just saying.” The bill was passed to remove the confederate flag from the state building in South Carolina. The supporters of the stars and bars need to get over the fact that the flag cannot fly over a public building, you are “free” to fly it in front of your house and just about anywhere else that you would like to display it. I hope you do fly it; your display of the confederate flag will let people know who they are dealing with. In Atlanta, a person has spent their own money for a billboard that says, “Show your mind not your behind.” The billboard shows a young Black man in a cap and gown and then the backend of a young man with his pants sagging almost to his thighs. I hope these billboards catch on. Some good news to share, I saw it on Facebook, Kim Coles got married. Coles played Sinclair on “Living Single” and recently shared pictures of her destination marriage on Facebook. Speaking of weddings, how many of you have seen a “broach bouquet?” A friend of mine got married in Little Rock, Ark., and she posted a picture of a broach bouquet on her Facebook page. It was unique and beautiful. It was a round bouquet of flowers with dozens of rhinestone broaches. I was able to participate in her wedding by sending a broach. Last week, she posted the completed bouquet and I could see my broach. It made me feel like I was a part of the ceremony from afar. What a great idea. Now back to some local news…there are a lot of Black homeowners in Penn Hills, please pay attention to the school tax issues that we are getting ready to encounter. People read your Penn Hills Progress, it comes in the mail for free. (Email the columnist at debbeinorrell@aol.com)
50/50 ANYONE?—Don Trent and Milton Oliver sell those tickets.
PCM OFFICERS AND WIVES—Clayton and Terry Robinson with Gwen and Larry Victum.
PCM throws White Party by Debbie Norrell Courier Staff Writer
It’s not summer without a White Party. On June 5, at the Penn Hills Comfort Inn, the Pittsburgh Council of Men held their annual spring/summer dance. With Larry Victum as president and Clayton Robinson as vice president, this group of mature men continues to host multiple events each year, typically a dinner dance in the fall and spring. The well-planned events focus on having a good time while mixing and mingling, and recognizing community members. During the spring dance, PCM recognized Marcia Scott of the Citiparks Homewood Senior Center and presented her with a $500 check for being one of the most active centers in the area. Scott says the 60 and over crowd that attends the Homewood Senior Center likes to play cards, line dance, socialize, enjoy good meals and stay active. The Pittsburgh Council of Men was founded in May of 1972 by the late Fred GladPCM GUESTS—Beverly and Robert Lowe ney Sr. and Algia Gary Jr.
PCM MEMBERS WITH WIVES—Shirley and Fred Parker with Gail and Reggie Jackson.
CHECK PRESENTATION—PCM presented a check to Marcia Scott, director of the Citiparks Homewood Senior Center.
A FUN EVENING—Don and Marsha Trent with Barbara and Mike James.
LONGTIME PCM MEMBERS—Dan and Michael Brown with Doll and Ira Ritter.
LINE DANCING IN WHITE
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JULY 15-21, 2015
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
RELIGION
Praise & Worship HILLCREST SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 2340 Wylie Ave., Pgh., PA 15219 412-391-4334 412-566-8757
“Be Encouraged”
Elder Christopher C. Thompson Power Hour Sabbath..............8:15 A.M. Sabbath School.......................9:00 A.M. Divine Worship.....................11:00 A.M. AYS One Hour Before Sunset Prayer Meeting Wednesday....7:30 P.M.
ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CATHOLIC CHURCH Crawford & Centre Ave. Pgh., PA 15219 412-281-3141 Mass Sunday 9:00 A.M. & 11 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.metropolitanbaptistchurchpgh.com metropolitanbaptist2224@gmail.com
SIXTH MOUNT ZION BAPTIST CHURCH
AWARDEES—The Islamic Center of Pittsburgh cordially invited all to its annual Ramadan Interfaith Banquet to enjoy the Ramadan tradition while celebrating the outstanding Pittsburghers who are helping to cultivate compassion and respect in the fields of medicine, interfaith relations, museum programming and business networking. The Humanity Day Honoree recipients were: Dr. Cristiana Bertocchi, Doctors Without Borders; Karen Hochberg, director, Pittsburgh Area Jewish Committee; Kathleen Hower, CEO, Pittsburgh Global Links; Rufus Idris, executive director, Christian Evangelistic Economic Development; Cecile Shellman, diversity catalyst, Carnegie Museum: and Andy Pugh, director of operations, Sierra Leona Ebola clinic, Save the Children. A Middle Eastern buffet in observance of breaking the Ramadan fast followed the program. Pictured above are honorees with ICP’s Julie Webb. From left: Julie Webb, Karen Hochberg, Kathleen Hower, Cecile Shellman, Dr. Cristiana Bertocchi, Kristen Mertz, wife of Andy Pugh who was not able to attend, and Rufus Idris. (Photos by J L. Martello)
Islamic Center’s interfaith celebration of Ramadan
6556 Shetland Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206 (412) 441-7839 Church School 9:00 a.m. Worship Service 10:15 a.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study 6:00 p.m.
East Liberty PresbyterianChurch Rev. Dr. Randy Bush, Senior Pastor 412-441-3800 116 S. Highland Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206 www.cathedralofhope.org
Sanctuary Worship.........10 a.m.
Join our growing Praise and Worship Church Community
JULIE WEBB Mistress of Ceremonies
IMAM HAMZA PEREZ giving the invocation and opening words.
AHMAD MOORE Board of Directors
For rate information, call 412481-8302, ext 40. We are looking to
THE ISLAMIC CENTER OF PITTSBURGH YOUTH CHOIR
Church Circuit feature our positive youth in the church communities. You can e-mail, fax or mail their bios and photo to:
New Pittsburgh Courier 315 E. Carson St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Fax: 412-481-1360 e-mail:
egaines@newpittsburghcourier.com
Holy Spirit Seminar JULY 15—Greater Works Outreach, 301 College Park Dr., Monroeville, will host its Holy Spirit Seminar at 10 a.m. Through July 18, the church will feature three-daily sessions of worship, teaching and ministry. Guest speakers will be Pastor Darlene Bishop, Pastor Matthew Brown, Bishop Joseph Garlington, Dr. Larry Huch and Prophet Ron Campbell. The seminar will also be held at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. There will also be a daily Vacation Bible School and Youth Conference. Registration for the school and conference are requested. For more information, call 724-327-6500 or visit www.garymitrik.com.
Vacation Bible School JULY 15—First Baptist Church,
141 N. McDonald St., McDonald, Pa., will host its Blast to the Past Vacation Bible School from 5:458:45 p.m. Through July 17, First Baptist welcomes families and individuals to experience an exciting week of time-travel adventure to discover God’s everlasting love. This event is free and registration is required. For more information, call 724-9264216.
Rib Festival JULY 18—Mon Valley Churches and Organizations will host its Annual Fellowship Rib Festival at 12 p.m. at Unity Park, Bailie Avenue, McKeesport. The theme is “A community that prays together stays together.” The event will feature St. Paul AME and Christ Temple AME Church, both of McKees-
port.
Gospel Fest
Open House/ Registration
JULY 19—St. John The Evangelist Baptist Church, 4537 Chatsworth Ave., Hazelwood, will host a Gospel Fest at 3:30 p.m. There will be guest choirs and soloists from the Pittsburgh area and the Morning Star Baptist Church Male Chorus from Fairmont, W. Va. For more information, call 412521-0994.
JULY 18—The Miracle Ministries/Beaver Valley College of Theology, a satellite extension of North Carolina College of Theology, will host an Open House and Registration for the 2015-2016 School Year from 12-3 p.m. at the Miracle School of Ministry, 702 Davis St., Aliquippa, Pa.
Revival JULY 19— Morningside COGIC, 5173 Dearborn St., Garfield, will host a Revival at 3:30 p.m. The theme is “Revive and Restore Us O Lord God Almighty.” The guest revivalist is Evangelist Regina Bryant. For more information, call 412-8977839.
Gospel Idol JULY 25—The Center for Organ Recovery and Education (CORE) will host its Gospel Idol at 6 p.m. at the Kelly Strayhorn Theater, 5941 Penn Ave., East Liberty. This is a National Minority Donor Awareness Celebration event based on the reality-talent show “American Idol.” Ten talented, local con-
testants have been selected from the numerous submissions to compete for four prizes. For more information, email Lisa Upsher at lupsher@core.org.
Kennywood Ticket Sale JULY 29—The Rachel Randall Education Department of Pentecostal Temple COGIC, 6300 E. Liberty Blvd., E. Liberty, will host the selling of Ride All Day tickets for Kennywood Park. Pentecostal Temple Family Day will be held July 29. For more information, call 412-371-6268 or email gzusislove@comcast.net. (To have items listed on the Church Circuit, send information at least two weeks in advance to: 315 E. Carson St., Pittsburgh, PA 15219; Fax: 412481-1360 or e-mail: newsroom@newpittsburghcourier.com.)
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
PEOPLE
JULY 15-21, 2015 B3
Wiz Khalifa’s mother speaks on her beautiful locks by Paige Mitchell For New Pittsburgh Courier
Dreadlocks are more than a unique, fashionable way to wear your hair, they are also very symbolic in history. The roots of dreadlocks can be trailed to the Rastafarians of Jamaica and further to Indian sages and yogis, but they have never been more popular or widespread than they are today. While in the midst of exploring summer fashion and trends, the New Pittsburgh Courier was able to
catch up with Katie “Peachie” Wimbush otherwise known as rapper Wiz Khalifa’s mother. Wimbush is known for her outgoing charismatic personality, but she is also known for her beauty. She is not only a beautiful woman, but people are infatuated with her flawless dreadlocks. Peachie rocks deep cherry red, long dreadlocks that flow past her shoulders down to the middle of her back. She embraced the idea of natural hair eight years ago, and today, her hair is healthy, happy and
KATIE “PEACHIE” WIMBUSH
continuing to grow. And the interesting thing is, her unique hair journey started one weekend while in her living room, when she began to twist her own hair. “I began my lock journey in 2007, after experimenting with every torturous hairstyle known to Western man I decided to return to my natural hair. I sectioned my hair, twisted it up one Saturday night, and the rest is history,” Peachie said. For years, Peachie maintained her dreadlocks herself. Washing, styling, twisting and more. “I maintained it myself in the beginning, but as it got longer I enlisted the help of a stylist, Ravin Bean, who is responsible for the color, and my fun favorite up do’s,” she said. Peachie said that Carol’s Daughter hair care products are her absolute faves and must-haves! She uses Carol’s Daughter to protect, clean, moisturize, and provide oil and luster to the dreadlocks. “My top notch must-have beauty product is, Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk Refresher Spray because it’s like the nectar from the moisture angels. It’s a hair lift mist miracle in a bottle,” she said. Peachie had no problem giving us the 411 on her summer plans for her hair and the fashionable styles she plans to rock. She said she is planning on experimenting with some funky colors, and is interested in trying extensions for some volume and length where her sides were tapered. With summer upon us, and women everywhere wanting to look their best, she was able to give us the scoop on
TIGHT-KNIT FAMILY—From left: Katie “Peachie” Wimbush holding grandson Sebastian “Baby Bash“ Wimbush with son, rapper Wiz Khalifa. (Supplied by Paige Mitchell.) what she will be wearing. Her summer faves are maxi dresses, baby doll dresses and rompers. The fun patterns and vibrant colors make this outfit stylish and bold. Peachie also enjoys jumpsuits, and said she plans to wear a lot of them this summer, while mostly sporting comfortable footwear. “I don’t dare fall while walking behind a toddler. I opt for flats with lots lots of flare and when I need a more substantial shoe you will find me in my Converse Missoni platform sneakers,” she said. “As an active Glam-mother of a toddler, I look for clothing that has a pocket or two to keep my hands free for snuggling and hugging,” Peachie said.
Labor secretary speaks at ‘Breaking Chains of Poverty’
THE GRADUATES—From left: Michael D. Woodson Sr., Howard Freeman Jr., Gary Holmes, Dante Williams, Breya Robinson-Bowles, Tyrone S. Kitchen and Shelton Scott. (Photos by J.L. Martello) U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez traveled to Pittsburgh recently to highlight cutting-edge workforce training programs at Carnegie Mellon University. He then offered remarks to the graduates of the A. Philip Randolph Institute “Breaking the Chains of Poverty” Workforce Development Program. Perez joined Pennsylvania AFL-CIO President Rick Bloomingdale and Carnegie Mellon University Provost Farnam Jahanian to meet
with start-up companies supported by the New App for Making It in America initiative. This program received a $3 million grant through the U.S. Department of Labor’s Workforce Innovation Fund to help cultivate a new base for domestic manufacturing and expand apprenticeship opportunities in the technology sector. Perez traveled to United Steelworkers to participate in the A. Phillip Randolph Institute’s Workforce Devel-
opment Program graduation ceremony. The trip highlighted the programs and partnerships that serve as the foundation for the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, the first major reform of federal job training in over 15 years. The law was passed with strong bipartisan support in Congress in part because of the emphasis on work-based training opportunities like apprenticeships.
DEWITT WALTON The welcome
THOMAS E. PEREZ U.S. Labor Secretary
SYLVIA WILSON Mistress of Ceremonies
T.O.L.A.T.R. Highland Park Preparatory Academy Now Accepting Fall Enrollment 2015-2016 School Year Nursery School Elementary and Secondary High Academic Standards Individualized Instruction Small Class Size Transportation Certified Teachers Financial Aid and Scholarships Available Early College experience for qualified students 412-361-7733
New Pittsburgh Courier
B4
ENTERTAINER JULY 15-21, 2015
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
Cover To Cover
‘Spectacle’ by Terri Schlichenmeyer For New Pittsburgh Courier
The animals look a little restless. Maybe they’re hungry, bored, or tired of being watched. They seem angry. Observing these creatures caged, it’s easy to believe that wild animals shouldn’t be penned like this—and in the new book “Spectacle: The Astonishing Life of Ota Benga” by Pamela Newkirk, neither should humans. When visitors arrived at the New York Zoological Gardens in the Bronx on Sept. 6, 1906, they were probably there for more than just the “sunny and warm” day. Chief curator William Temple Hornaday knew that, and he stood at the gates, directing people to what he claimed was his “best attraction yet.” At the very end of the Monkey House, past the chimps and baboons, visitors looked upon an orangutan penned with a “103-pound, four-foot 11inch chocolate-colored” man that Hornaday claimed was
PAMELA NEWKIRK a cannibal and that he knew as Ota Benga. What he didn’t know, exactly, was how Benga got from Africa to America… Samuel Phillips Verner had once hoped for recognition as a scientist and explorer, first traveling to Africa as a missionary, then as a hired acquirer of artifacts. Known as somewhat of an expert on “pygmies,” Verner had procured several young Africans and brought them to America. Rumor had it that he’d “gone insane.” Whatever it was that drove Verner, he often created stories to fit the moment. He said that Benga asked to come to America. He claimed he’d saved Benga’s life in the Congo, which is possible because of atrocities being committed on behalf of King Leopold of Belgium. For a fee, he offered to leave Benga with Hornaday, and said he’d return shortly. Instead, Verner appeared to have dumped Benga there, and fled. Within days of Benga’s appearance in the cage, local ministers demanded his freedom, and they hired a lawyer. At first despondent (his appearance at the Zoological Gardens wasn’t his first experience), Benga became combative with handlers. Hornaday was forced to turn him over to Brooklyn Howard Colored Orphanage. For the first time in years, Benga was free… But was he? Author Pamela Newkirk leaves readers hanging, not on purpose but by necessity because “…the true story will probably never be known.” What is true, though, is that this is one shocking account; my hand flew to my mouth in astonishment by the time I was on page 8 of “Spectacle,” then it got more intriguing: while Benga is the obvious focus of the book, his story is told more through his capturers, his handlers, and his helpers. Indeed, Newkirk introduces us to shady characters, as well as many good people, and she does it with a sense of the times in which things occurred. Then she’ll squeeze your heart dry with an ending that…ouch. (“Spectacle: The Astonishing Life of Ota Benga” by Pamela Newkirk, c.2015, Amistad, $25.99/$31.99 Canada, 299 pages.)
ALEXIS ADAMS center with flowers, was the writer, director, and producer of the play “’Her’ Story”
‘’Her’ Story’ tells real women stories by Paige Mitchell For New Pittsburgh Courier
Alexis Adams, recently sold out the Father Ryan Arts Center with her play, “‘Her’ Story.” A play comprised from real stories from real women. The play took place June 21, and people from all over the city quickly filled the venue. “I found out about the ‘’Her’ Story’ play via social media,” attendee Tionna Brisker said. “And immediately after I saw several postings about the play on Instagram, I knew I wanted to attend. For some reason there was something tugging on my heart, for me to go, and after attending the play I know why. The play truly spoke to me, and touched my heart. It was very aspiring for women.” The play was written for women, while also being a theatrical display that all could enjoy, male and female. The play was written by Producer/Creator Alexis Adams, but inspired by the lives of real women. Sambi Alieu contributed to the production of the play as well. “The idea for the ‘’Her’ Story’ play literally came to me out of nowhere, but I knew the idea would be a creative yet aspiring way to bring people together,” Adams said. “I’ve heard so many women’s stories, seen my friends go through a lot of things, and I had been through so much myself; that women need a way to release and to see other stories.” Auditions were held, and rehearsals took place for six months prior to the main event. It was important for Adams and her team to choose actors and actresses that brought the characters to life. The stories and characters were all reenactments of real strong women. All the stories were based on true stories and events. Adams called on her friend Kiara Brown, who graduated with a degree in Psychology to assist with the play, and help with bringing the emotion and deep stories to life. “I felt a play such as this was needed because women go through so much and we do not realize our own hurt and pain that we suffer from on a day-to-day basis. Nor do we realize the very woman we judge or talk about went through something similar that we did, or something that they haven’t worked past yet. This play was a reminder to women to support and love one another verses tear each other down,” she said. The event was mostly funded by Adams and the cast held a hoagie sale. Present vendors at the event were; Shoetified Shoe Company, and Theta Phi Sigma Christian Sorority who
SCENE FROM PLAY served Pittsburgh Popcorn to audience members. The overall message of the “‘Her’ Story” play was to encourage people to let go of their past, and allowing your past to make you beautiful and better. It’s time to stop holding on to anger, and stop being
against one another as women and start coming together to support and love one another. Since, Adams received such an overwhelming out pour of support, she plans to create an Encore performance in the future. There will be a “‘Her’ Story” Pt.2
SCENE FROM PLAY
SCENE FROM PLAY
and she also plans to put on a “‘His’ Story” play production in 2016. “Everyone knows how passionate I am about the betterment of the community, and I am very invested in doing my part to make the world a better place. “‘Her’ Story” was a fun, unique, great way to
celebrate womanhood and overcoming life’s obstacles.” “I just hope this helps women release and move past hurt, or at least deal with it,” Actress Chantel Peterson said. “I hope this helps women to come together. I hope this helps women understand women. I hope it helps men understand women a little more and I hope when I do “His Story” it does the same. I hope to see something that makes you laugh, cry, and open your eyes and relate to and its entertaining...you get a better understanding. Everyone has a story, and we should take the time to learn them and stop judging, love one another past pain, hurt, and flaws. Or stop holding someone to their past, even ourselves... once the day comes to an end if you decide to change for the better the past is your stepping stone.” At the end of the play, every woman received a helium filled balloon. The entire audience and cast went outside of the theatre, and took a moment of silence to look over their lives (as individuals) and issues they are allowing to burden themselves in. Then everyone released their balloons
SCENE FROM PLAY into the sky, as they yelled out what they decided to let go, and burden them no longer. “As I released my balloon into the sky, I yelled out low-self esteem. Because at the moment I knew it was time, to let it go and start really loving myself,“ Dana Brown said, Encore performance coming soon, and if anyone is interested male or female be sure too contact Alexis Adams by visiting the website www.herstorytheplay.com. Ronald Taylor, Tiffany Glenn-Davis, Kami Small , London Mariya Glanton, A’lia Denay Grandison, Markeya Lowr, Andre Pruitt, Elijah Thompson, Sean Reese, Jennifer Lauren, Chantel Peterson and Mariah Gregg.
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
JULY 15-21, 2015
ARTS & CULTURE
B5
Concert Review: Where art thou, Wiz? by Merecedes J. Howze For New Pittsburgh Courier
The Fourth of July weekend was properly kicked off with a stop from the “Boys of Zummer” Tour at First Niagara Pavilion. Hoodie Allen, Fall Out Boy and Pittsburgh’s own Wiz Khalifa put on a show to an almost sold-out house. Wiz’s July 2 performance officially made me a fan. In the past, I tolerated the hits like “Roll Up” and “Black and Yellow.” But, seeing Wiz live again made me appreciate his music that I have so vigorously been taking advantage of. From the inflatable blunts to Khalifa’s surprise lawn performance, the show was very energetic. Most of the crowd, who seemed to be on a
WIZ KHALIFA
controlled substance (that I won’t name), was fully active and engaged. Not too many of “us” were there, but that was to be expected with Fall Out Boy as the co-headliner. The most pivotal moment came towards the end when Wiz sang his #1 hit from the “Furious 7” soundtrack, “See You Again.” The audience sang Charlie Puth‘s part and I watched those around me wallow up with tears. The single, which has spent five consecutive weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 list, clearly still has a profound effect on people since its March release. Wiz’s set ended with a burst of red confetti as family and friends watched from the right
July Thursday 16 Thursday Night Icon Series The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra presents the Thursday Night Icon Series: Johnny Mathis at 7:30 p.m. at Heinz Hall, 600 Penn Ave., Cultural District. Music legend Johnny
the four-show series. For more information, visit www.pittsburghsymphony.org.
Friday 17 Jazz at Andys Andys Wine Bar at the Fairmont Pittsburgh Hotel presents Jazz at Andys from 5-7:30 p.m. at 510 Market St., Downtown. Every Friday night in May, DJ Malls will be spinning the vinyl. There will also be a musical performance by Kelly Connor. It is open to the public. For more information, visit www.andyswinebar.com.
Saturday 18 Dance Africa Pittsburgh
JOHNNY MATHIS Mathis will be in the ’Burgh for one-night only to perform favorites such as “Wonderful, Wonderful,” “Chances Are,” “Misty” and more. He celebrates his 59th year in the music industry and Columbia Records’ longest-running artist. Mathis is the second artist to take part in
The Legacy Arts Project and the Kelly Strayhorn Theater presents Dance Africa Pittsburgh 2015 at 8 p.m. at the Kelly Strayhorn Theater, 5941 Penn Ave., East Liberty. The two-day event, which runs through July 17-18, will feature performances from the Kulu Mele African Dance & Drum Ensemble along with youth and adults of the Balafon West African Dance Ensemble and the Legacy Arts Project’s Dance Ensemble. There will also be an African marketplace and Afro-Cuban workshops. Reservations are required. For more information, visit www.legacyartsproject.org.
Riverview Jazz Citiparks presents the Riverview Jazz Series from 78:30 p.m. at Riverview Park, North Side. Each Saturday, guests can beat the summer
heat with the cool sounds of some of Pittsburgh’s best jazz musicians. The featured musician will be Thomas Wendt. The concerts are free. For more information, call 412-255-2493 or visit www.citiparks.net.
Sunday 19 Black Arts Festival Harambee Ujima Arts and Culture Association presents the Black Arts Festival from 11 a.m.8 p.m. at Kelly Street, Homewood. The two-day festival, which runs July 18-19, will include performances by OneHood, the Flow Band, CUE and more. There will also be a film festival, dance workshops, a parade, art gallery, children’s village and more. For more information, call 412-244-0465 or email harambee@harambeeujima.org.
Monday 20 Savoy Jazz Savoy Restaurant presents Savoy Jazz Mondays from 5-9 p.m. at 2623 Penn Ave., Strip District. Every Monday guests can enjoy live jazz in a sophisticated atmosphere. The evening will feature Charlie G. with the Ron Wilson Quartet. The attire is business casual. For more information, call 412-281-0660 or visit www.savoypgh.com.
Tuesday 21 JazzLive The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust presents JazzLive at 5 p.m. at the Backstage Bar at Theater
Square, 655 Penn Ave., Cultural District. Every Tuesday guests can celebrate a decade of jazz in the Cultural District and enjoy hot jazz from some of the most talented musicians. The musician will be Roger Humphries. For more information, call 412456-6666 or visit www.trustarts.org.
Wednesday 22 Jazz Wednesdays City of Asylum presents “Jazz Wednesdays: Summer on Sampsonia” from 7-9 p.m. at the Alphabet City Tent, 318 Sampsonia Way, North Side. Every Wednesday, through Sept. 16, a series of free jazz concerts will be held featuring icon Roger Humphries and his band, RH Factor. Performances are free, open to the public and BYOB. Reservations are not required, but strongly encouraged. For more information, visit www.cityofasylum.org/events
side of the stage. When he exited the stage, he embraced a small toddler—not Sebastian, but one of dozens of familiar faces that greeted him once the show was over. I only have one question: Where art thou, Wiz? An astonishingly great show does not negate my claim that the 27-year-old rapper has a weird, dark cloud over him. It was like he was on stage, but he wasn’t. And if I’m going strictly off of his recent Instagram posts, @mistercap seems bothered. There are currently over 40 photos of what looks like the same fitted white jeans. It’s overkill. His recent social media behavior has been nothing less than strange. His team from 42West
declined an interview. I guess I should not be too concerned. Social media doesn’t define who you are. Right? To be completely honest, I did not stay for Fall Out Boy’s’ performance. This confession does not mean I do not enjoy their music, but only confirms my abrupt fatigue. I danced so hard from Wiz, got a migraine, waited 20 minutes in the restrooms’ line and decided it was time to call it a night. When I think about that 30-mile drive, during rush hour, it makes the concert experience that much more of a tedious task. Formerly the Star Lake Amphitheater, First Niagara Pavilion is a beautiful, amusing venue. I just wish it was closer.
B6
JULY 15-21, 2015
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
FOOD & DINING
MAC & CHEESE
RIBS & CHICKEN ON GRILL (Photos by Paige Mitchell)
RIBS
Conflict Kitchen features Pittsburgh chefs in Juneteenth celebration by Paige Mitchell
assumed the male leadership role of his mother’s household. He learned how to cook from his mother, learned how to grill from his Conflict Kitchen is a restaurant that repfather, and learned how to smoke meats resents unity and collaboration throughout while he was in the service. In God’s Hands the world. This restaurant serves cuisine Catering is Parker’s catering company ran by from countries with which the United him and his wife, Nakia Parker. States is in conflict. Conflict Kitchen is augThe catering company is known for its mented by events, performances, publicamouth watering smoked meats, and the fan tions, and discussions that seek to expand favorite is smoked ribs. Parker is a licensed public engagement with culture, politics, minister, and believes his cooking is a part and issues at stake within the focus region. of his ministry to the world. Current resiRecently, Conflict Kitchen celebrated dent of Garden City, and member of Mount Juneteenth Friday and Saturday and the Ararat Baptist Church he currently operJuneteenth Lunch Hour. ates the business from home. Juneteenth is a celebration of the anIn God’s Hands Catering began in 2000 nouncement of the abolition of slavery in when Parker and his wife catered their enTexas on June 19, 1865 and enforcement of tire wedding reception. Today, Parker and his the Emancipation Proclamation by the wife keep busy by continuing to prepare deliUnited States government. It was the last cious smoked meats, macaroni and cheese, state to receive the news that the Civil War string beans, and more for the people. was over and that the Union had won. “Throughout the community, I am also reWhat made the “Lunch Hour” event special ferred to as the ‘No Sauce Boss,’ because peowas that six Pittsburgh Chefs were present to ple enjoy my smoked ribs so much that they CHEFS UNITED—Cheyanne Bronzell, Malik Hamilton, Ngar Wharff, and Monique Woodson. (Photos don’t need sauce. I’m so humbled and blessed share cuisine and celebrate over good eats. The chefs present at the event were, Malik by J.L. Martello) to be doing something that brings joy and Hamilton, Monique Woodson, Ngai Wharff, Gerhappiness to my life and others, alongside my ald Parker, Torie Day, and Cheyanne Bronzell. best friend/life partner,“ Parker said. Malik Hamilton is a father of four beautiInstgram: IGH412_smokedmeats ful children. He was born in Wilmington, Facebook: IGH412 CATERING N.C. and raised in Casper, Wy. Hamilton *** started in the food service industry in April Torie Day started using the stove at age 9. 1995 at a now closed Italian Restaurant in Born and raised in Pittsburgh, from the Casper called Anthony’s, where he started Homewood neighborhood. Coming from a his career as a dishwasher. A few short household where a mother cooked big months later, Hamilton was moved up to breakfasts and a three course meal every prep cook, and by January was on line for night. She would enjoy observing her lunch service. Hamilton is a graduate stumother work in the kitchen, and learned dent in Food Sevices Program at Chatham how to cook herself from watching her University. His course of study focuses on mother. Day decided to become a Chef the food policy and access, as well as cultural day it hit her how much she loves food and representations of food. To date: Hamilton the craft. To date, Day specializes in high has a 20-year culinary background and quality Southern Cuisine or Soul Food. once he has completed his Master’s degree Without using pork in any of her recipes, hopes to continue his educational studies in she is inspired by Italian, Asian, Caribbean, public policy and sociology. and American cuisine. Her favorite dish to “If you want to know a person’s experience create is anything that allows her to bring walk a mile in their shoes,” Hamilton said, her creative cooking style to life. However, “If you know about their deepest values and her fan favorite dish is turkey lasagna, beliefs dine at their table.” MONIQUE WOODSON mixing some secret ingre- CHEYANNE BRONZELL in the kitchen preparing macaroni and cheese, Potatoe Salad, cobContact: www.linkedin.com/in/malikhamilton dients in a pot on the stove. bler, and apple pie. Day is available in the some potato salad for orders. Twitter: @blackdogeats city to provide catering services. Facebook: Blackdogeats “It’s important that I provide healthy food for *** the soul. Food that is fulfilling yet nutritional. Monique Woodson first began her lifetime Reinventing the way traditional soul foods are journey as a chef, at an early age. As a child prepared to keep us healthy is very important she enjoyed helping her mother in the to me. Whatever you do... have a well a balkitchen. “At the age of 5 my mom pulled a anced diet and love what you do, eat to live, stool up to the stove and showed me how to and do things from the soul,“ Day said. fry my first egg.” Since that very moment, Contact: daylasoulcatering@yahoo.com Woodson has been hooked on cooking and Facebook: Day La’ Soul Catering its been history ever since. Instagram: @daylasoulfood Woodson said that cooking was her Twitter: daylasoulfood mother’s way of teaching her responsibility. *** At a later age, her mom made her responsiCheyanne Bronzell was born in Pittsble for cooking for her entire family once burgh’s Hill District, grew up in Garfield every week. From grocery shopping, to and is Chef/Owner of PhatGirlzCookinLLC. recipes, to prep work, Woodson handled it She started cooking at the age of 11, but reall. And watching her family members enjoy alized she wanted to pursue a professional each and every bite, kept her passion going. career in this field 10 years ago. Her dream Her favorite dish to create is macaroni and and goal is to transform her home-based cheese. To date; Woodson enjoys creating catering business into a food-truck, which meals through her company “Indulge” from all would service the homeless and hungry. genres of food; Soul Food, Mexican Food, Bronzell mastered Italian gravy at the age Seafood, and etc. She currently operates out of MALIK HAMILTON getting orders of Mac ‘n NGAR WHARFF getting an order of pig feet for a of eleven after being taught by her grandher Brookline home where she sells meals Cheese for a customer. mother, around the same time she started customer. every Friday, and is available to cater events. creating master meals in the kitchen. Her fa“Indulge offers a wide selection of dishes vorite dish to create is lasagna, she enjoys weekly,” Woodson said. “As individual tastes run a wide that lasagna can be prepared in several different ways and range so do the prepared meals that are available through can be personalized with Bronzell’s touch. She enjoys cookIndulge. Indulge offers a wide selection of choices from the ing food from many ethnic backgrounds, but specializes in comfortingly familiar to the culinary adventurous.” soul food. While her fan favorite dish is macaroni and Contact: 412-592-1674 cheese and potatoe salad. Bronzell is a wife, mother, and IndulgeWithMo@yahoo.com grandmother. She hopes to pursue popular television cookFacebook: Indulge With Mo ing contests such as, Hell’s Kitchen and MasterChef to wow *** Master Ramsey and viewers with her skills. Ngai Wharff from Trinidad and Tobago, currently residing in “I am very passionate about food, and it is important Shadyside, first started creating dishes around 1996. Wharff that every person that takes a bite out of my food is satislater won a Beastley Weber Grill in a Hot Dog competition. fied. My dream is to one day operate from a food truck that The award from this cooking competition marked the official services the homeless and hungry community. This would birth of his career. He has been a dedicated member of the create an opportunity for everyone to enjoy a delicious Food Service Industry for 24 years, and what drives him is the meal,” Bronzell said, appreciation that people share while dinning. Wharff has a Facebook: Phat Girlz Cookin universal style of cooking. His all time favorite dishes to creInstagram: PhatGirlzACookin ate are Fillet Stuffed Lobster with spiced vanilla butter, lamb *** lollipops, butter, brown sugar, cashew encrusted grilled Creative Director, LaToya Williams initiated the converpineapples with Coconut milk iced cream. While his fan fasation with Conflict Kitchen regarding the Juneteenth vorite is Taco Wings with fondued cheese dipping sauce. Menu. The idea was proposed to the co-director of Conflict ”I’ve grown up around some of the most amazing people Kitchen, Dawn Weleski. and I’ve learned from all of them. My skill set comes from “It was through my work with members of the commumy family, including friends,“ Wharff said, nity and commitment to meaningful community engageContact: ngaiwharff@yahoo.com ment that I thought this day was necessary,” Wiliams said, *** Conflict Kitchen uses the social relations of food and ecoGerald Parker, dedicated cook, husband, and father of ORGANIZERS—Dawn Weleski, co-director Conflict Kitchen on left nomic exchange to engage the general public in discusthree; started bringing masterpieces to life around the age of and LaToya Williams, activists and educational consultant; put this sions about countries, cultures, and people that many 12. His parents divorced at the age of 14, and Parker quickly Conflict Kitchen Juneteenth event together. know little about. For New Pittsburgh Courier
New Pittsburgh Courier
BUSINESS
Find what you need from jobs to cars to housing C4-C5
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Minority banks shut out of federal tax credit program C3
Inside Conditions
JULY 15-21, 2015
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
solution in America’s inner cities, most of which still have not recovered from the Great Recession,” said Preston Pinkett, CEO of City National Bank and chairman of the bankers association. “But the groups best equipped to make those investments, minority banks —many of which have been in service for over 100 years —have largely been shut out of the NMTC program. We need our CDFI Fund to do more; we need a real change that will allow us to receive allocations so we can use these resources to improve our communities.” The federal tax-credit program provides a tax credit to investors who invest in projects or small businesses in those communities by funneling their investments through the recipients of tax credit allocation.
(NNPA)—Minority-owned banks are crying foul about the federal government snubbing them for tax credits they say could generate economic development in the nation’s most needy communities. The Community Development Financial Institutions Fund, an arm of the Treasury Department, issued in June $3.5 billion in New Markets Tax Credit allocation to 76 entities across the country to spur economic development. However, none were awarded to the nation’s minority banks, despite those institutions claiming the longest track records of deploying capital in the nation’s most underserved areas. “The NMTC program has great potential to be part of a comprehensive economic
Harry C. Alford
Beyond the Rhetoric
Dream of homeownership a nightmare for Blacks (NNPA)—Without argument the sub-prime mortgage crisis was the most devastating economic attack against Black America in history. We saw it coming, but did nothing about it. Mainstream banks such as Wells Fargo showed no shame in fleecing Black communities. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (two government sponsored enterprises) strayed way off their charters and soaked up severe amounts of risk. It began to crumble in 2008 and within two years, Black America lost more than 35 percent of its collective net worth. The saddest thing is that this fiscal slide has yet to stop for us. The Dodd-Frank Act, which was supposed to stop the bleeding, has made things worse. Credit requirements and mountains of paperwork are prohibiting much of the Black population from capital access. Mortgages in our communities are still becoming less and less available. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) seems to have no focus on this matter. It is sidetracked with looking at housing discrimination. After six years of being under the administration of a Black president, we are worse than ever before.
According to The Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University’s annual “State of the Nation’s Housing, “Overall, home ownership, the cornerstone of the American Dream, is down to 63 percent, a far cry from the 69 percent registered in 2004. Those figures, however, are much worse for minorities, especially Blacks. The homeownership rate for minorities continues to lag: It peaked at 51.3 percent in 2004, and has now fallen to 47.2 percent. Of all minority groups, African Americans have the lowest rate of homeownership, just 43.8 percent.” It is getting worse. The key to American homeownership were our two Government Sponsored Enterprises (GSE) – Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. After World War II and the beginning of the mortgage component within the GI Bill of Rights, our nation went into a housing boom and created a viable middle class with home equity being the biggest part of a family’s net worth. This gave Americans a big advantage over people in other nations who had no GSE programs. So now guess what the Obama adSEE DREAM C2
According to the CDFI Fund’s Award Book, only six awards—less than 8 percent—went to minority-controlled entities of any kind, and those groups received only $165 million, under 5 percent of the total dollar amount of allocation. “The absence of a single minority bank raises much concern,” said Michael Grant, president of the National Bankers Association. “In 2009, the General Accounting Office issued a report detailing the disparity in NMTC awards to minority entities. The numbers have actually gotten worse, not better.” A 2009 study by the Government Accountability Office indicated that only about 9 percent of minority entities were successful SEE MINORITY C2
Black women represent fastest growing group of entrepreneurs by Lynette Holloway
ing companies in growing numbers across the country. In Detroit, where city leaders, foundations, and even A new report shows that the num- President Obama have promoted enber of businesses owned by African- trepreneurship as an economic develAmerican women has grown 332 percent since 1997, according to Fortune magazine. The recently published study, 2015 State of Women-Owned Businesses Report (pdf), commissioned by American Express Open, shows that the overall number of female-owned businesses grew by 74 percent between 1997 and 2015, which is 1.5 times the national average. From Fortune: Women now own 30% of all businesses in the U.S., accounting for some 9.4 million firms. And African American women control 14% of these companies, or an estimated 1.3 million businesses. That figure is larger than the total number of firms owned by all minority women in 1997, the report found. “The only bright spot in recent years with respect to privately-held company job growth has been among women-owned firms,” according to the report. These businesses have added an estimated 340,000 jobs to the economy since opment tool, a tiny nonprofit is mak2007, while employment at compa- ing outsize efforts at helping black nies owned by men (or with equally women become business owners. Since it was formed in 2012, the shared ownership) has declined… The highest concentrations of black Build Institute has graduated nearly woman-owned businesses are in 600 students from its eight-week Georgia, Maryland, and Illinois, but courses, which teach the basics of African American women are launch- starting and running a business, inFor New Pittsburgh Courier
cluding such topics as money management and how to determine your break-even point. Nearly 70% of those students are women, and 60% of them identify as a member of a mi-
nority group. This is a bit of good news that comes at a time when America is awakening from the slumber that has long tried to subjugate women of color in the workplace, and as progress in the socalled post-recession era appears to elude Black women. Congrats, sistas!
Congress urges stronger action against payday loan vendors (NNPA)—The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) will provide $32 million in relief to consumers who were caught in a maze of charges and fees designed to trap them in payday loans they never authorized. The enforcement action announced July 7, affects two lenders based in Kansas City, Mo. who operated as many as 16 different businesses involved in online lending. The FTC also imposed an additional $22 million fine against the lenders and banned them from all consumer lending. Members of Congress are urging the FTC to take similar action against similar violators. Every day online and storefront payday lenders trap borrowers in long-term cycles of debt. Their triple-digit interest rates and access to borrowers’ bank accounts or cartitles place these borrowers in financial jeopardy. FTC’s actions and others undertaken by federal and state regulators reveal rampant abuses in the short-term, small-dollar lending market. More than 100 Members of Congress representing 35 states, the District of Columbia and the Virgin Islands, recently urged the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) to enact a strong rule to curb abusive practices by payday lenders and other high-cost predatory loans like car-title and certain installment loans.
In separate letters, as varied as their 33 U.S. Senators and Charlene Crowell broad geographic ex68 House Members panses similarly urged the same accalled for CFPB to tion: strong regulaadopt strong regulation and enforcetion. ment of abusive and “While there is a predatory consumer need for affordable lending. credit, unfair, decepTheir calls for tive and abusive CFPB rulemaking payday and car title comes as the Bureau finalizes its proposed lending practices often pull consumers into rule, first announced in late March. At that a cycle of debt,” wrote the members. “We time, a letter signed by 500 consumer advo- support the Bureau’s efforts to close the cates from all 50 states waged an unprece- door to unaffordable loans by addressing dented push for reining in abusive small- failure to underwrite for affordable paydollar and high-cost loans engaged the ments, repeatedly rolling over or refinancWhite House and Capitol Hill. ing loans, accessing the consumer’s account Now, after listening to an onslaught of di- for repayment, and performing costly withverse and strong voices, federal lawmakers drawals.” are adding their voices and influence to the As consumer advocates stress the imporcontinuing fight for fairness. tance of the ability to repay a loan as a cor“Predatory lenders should not be able to nerstone of both responsible lending and efcontinue unfair, deceptive, and abusive acts fective regulation, a new poll jointly comor practices that are designed to trap bor- missioned by Americans for Financial Rerowers in a cycle of debt,” wrote 33 Sena- form and the Center for Responsible Lendtors. “This is a business model rooted in ing, asked 2016 likely voters their opinions preying on individuals and families that on consumer lending and regulation, Wall have no ability to repay, and the CFPB has Street influences and actions taken by the a critical opportunity to protect consumers Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. by issuing strong rules.” Respondents showed strong and bipartiMembers of Congress with constituencies san support for regulation of financial ser-
Commentary
vices and products. By more than a 10-toone margin, they favored a rule requiring small-dollar lenders to verify a customer’s ability to repay before a loan can be issued. Other poll results showed: Nearly three-quarters – 73 percent – said they favor the central provisions of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act; Respondents continue to view the financial industry as under-regulated; and They also believed that regulations and enforcement will ensure financial institutions act fairly and responsibly. “We are thankful for lawmakers and regulators standing up against these predatory loan practices which drain billions of dollars a year from low-income families,” said Diane Standaert, director of state policy with the Center for Responsible Lending. “As CFPB moves towards issuing its proposed rules, we urge it to use its full authority to stop the dangerous debt trap of these loans, and eliminating loopholes.” According to policy experts, CFPB could act on the pending regulation sometime this fall. (Charlene Crowell is a communications manager with the Center for Responsible Lending. She can be reached at Charlene.crowell@responsiblelending.org.)
C2 JULY 15-21, 2015
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
BUSINESS
Healthy Start and Jack and Jill focus on youth
BUSINESS CALENDAR
Network Lunch
by Diane I. Daniels For New Pittsburgh Courier
Since January of this year Vicki Sirockman the newly appointed executive director of Healthy Start, Inc. has been striving to carry out the organization’s 24 year old mandate of focusing on the need to strengthen and enhance community systems of maternal and infant care. One of her goals she said is to work toward stabilizing the agency after its recent funding cuts. “We have lost 75 percent of the funding we had 10 years ago.” The numerical loss she calculates to be a $6 million dollar loss declining from $8 million to $2 million. Healthy Start Pittsburgh, headquartered in North Point Breeze is a national demonstration initiative funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The program is designed to identify a broad range of community-driven strategies and interventions aimed at reducing the infant mortality rate. The nonprofit organization services Southwestern Pennsylvania with a focus in areas targeting low-income, predominantly Black innercity neighborhoods in Pittsburgh and Allegheny County. Its six communities of concentration include the North Side, Center City, East End, Wilkinsburg, South Side, Western communities including Duquesne and Braddock. Its mission is to focus primarily on the reduction of infant mortality and low birth weight babies in Southwestern Pennsylvania in such a way as to make valuable use of its resources, preserve its flexibility and continue to offer seamless services with the intent of improving the quality of life of infants, toddlers, youths, siblings, parents, and grandparents. Working toward her goal, Sirockman said the 16member Board of Directors and staff hopes to improve their capability of raising foundation and private donor funding. One of the first responses to the outreach has resulted in a near $50,000 contribution from the Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Pittsburgh Chapter. Alexis James Steals, president and Carlotta K. Burgess, immediate past president recently presented Sirockman and Healthy Start staff with the check. The presidents said they were happy to make the donation to such a worthwhile organization as Healthy Start. Jack and Jill of America is a membership organization of mothers with children ages 2 to19, dedicated to nurturing future African American leaders by strengthening children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving and civic duty. One of 230 chapters of the national group, representing more than 40,000 family members, the chapter strives to serve the Greater Pittsburgh area through community service and fundraising. Each chapter plans annual programming activities guided under the current national theme, “The Power to Make a Difference.” Through service projects, Jack and Jill of America create a medium of contact for children to stimulate their growth and development. According to Steals, who is also a Healthy Start board member, the Pittsburgh chapter’s signature event is the annual Presentation Ball. The purpose of the three-fold event is for it to serve as a major fundraising event for a local charity and for the Jack and Jill of America Foundation. Secondly it recognizes high school juniors and seniors for their accomplishments in the classroom and in the community and it allows the Chapter to showcase the organization to the Greater Pittsburgh area. Elated about the bestowment, Sirockman said the funds will be utilized to assist in meeting the costs of
ASSISTING IN SAVING LIVES—Carlotta K. Burgess, Immediate Past President (left) and Alexis James Steals, President of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Pittsburgh Chapter (right) present Vicki Sirockman the newly appointed executive director of Healthy Start, Inc. a check for nearly $50,000. (Photo by Diane I. Daniels) providing home visiting services to over 1,000 pregnant women and parents of young toddlers in the Allegheny County area. “Our home visiting services have the goal of helping needy families prevent the deaths of their babies during their first year of life,” she said. Sirockman pointed out that 2011 statistics indicate that 20 percent of all births in the County were African American, but 45percent of infant deaths occurred in the African American community. “Due to this disparity, Healthy Start has a special interest in addressing these problems.” She also noted that during that same time period 13.73 of every 1,000 Black babies died before their first birth-
days while the death rate for the entire population of Allegheny County was 4.75 per1, 000 infants. Established in 1991, Healthy Start, Inc. currently serves 104 projects in 39 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. The Pittsburgh/Allegheny County project area was one of only fifteen national sites originally included in the 1991-1996 demonstration phase of the Healthy Start program. Thrilled to be working as the new executive director of Healthy Start, Sirockman said she is excited to have the opportunity to provide services that improve birth outcomes. “I believe that there is no more important work, or higher calling than supporting the
birth of healthy babies and helping to nurture and sustain families.” A Pittsburgh native and University of Pittsburgh graduate where she earned an MPH in Maternal and Child Health services, Sirockman says she has devoted her profession to women and children’s social and public health services. During her career she has worked with the EPSDT program, teen pregnancy, child welfare, foster care, adoption, family planning, and the WIC program. While fundraising is a major responsibility of her position, Sirockman said she is also focusing on building strategic alliances in the community. Already depending on the Healthy Start Community Action
Network, a community group consisting of individuals, and organizations inclusive of families, community leaders and organizations from the private, public and nonprofit sectors she saod she realizes that resources and volunteers from groups like the Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Pittsburgh Chapter are essential. The CAN plays an advisory role and serves as the primary liaison between Healthy Start and the community, acting as regional advocates for the project’s initiatives. Through the involvement of the CAN, numerous partnerships have emerged and are being strengthened, and have created a network of service collaboration, innovation and change in the way service providers do business. Sirockman said she is in the process of establishing partnerships with the Allegheny County Jail Program for Female Offenders and Allegheny County Juvenile Court. “In this way I am hoping to position us to better serve moms in the criminal justice, substance abuse treatment and child welfare systems who are at really high risk for infant mortality.” She says she also sees a great need to reach out to the new immigrant population in Pittsburgh. Information about Healthy Start can be obtained from all social media outlets, on their website; www.healthystartpittsburgh.org, by calling 412247- 4009 or the helpline number 412-247-1000.
The Committee of 40 Fly-In Black CEO’s/C-Suite executives meet with Republican Congressional leaders WASHINGTON, DC.—Republican Policy makers are often criticized for not understanding or supporting policies that reflect all of America particular our Urban Centers. That changed when a bipartisan group of over 55 black CEO’s/C-suite executives came to Washington DC, Wednesday, July 8th to participate in The Committee of 40’s Black CEO/C-Suite Summit with Republican Congressional Leaders. The founding advisory board members also met on Feb. 12, with House Majority Leader, Kevin McCarthy. William Pickard, former Vice Chair of the Michigan Republican Party, CEO of the Automotive Group and CJ Jordan, founder of The Committee of 40, GOP strategist, convened the Fly-In. The event was titled “An Opportunity Agenda To-
wards Economic and Sustainable Growth in Urban Centers” “Republican Policy makers, have been the leaders in parental choice in education and as President Nixon stated Black Power is Black Business, said Dr. Pickard.” Successful CEO’s and Black Enterprise Top 100 executive’s; Dr. William Pickard, Automotive Group, LLC (Mich.); Robert L. Wright, Sentel (Fla.) and Steve Hightower, Hightower Petroleum, LLC (Ohio) opened the summit and provided tips along with business advice on how to survive and run a successful business. Executives had the opportunity to hear from House Majority Leader, Kevin McCarthy (Calif.) and House Republican Conference Chair, Cathy McMorrisRogers (Wash.) who lis-
tened to the concerns of the executives and shared their vision for America. Congressional leaders such as, Rep. Steve Stivers (Ohio); Rep. Bob Dold (Ill.); Rep. Carlos Cuebelo (Fla); Rep. Jim Bridenstine (Okla.); Rep. Bradley Byrne (Ala.) listened and discussed topics such as, HUB Zones, Community Banks, SBA Lending, HBCU’s, Pell Grants for ex-offenders, innovative workforce development programs and legacy wealth creation. Governor Pat McCrory’s (N.C.) sent representatives who shared, his progress and spoke about how the Governor, was engaging and providing opportunities in North Carolina’s urban centers from paid internships for HBCU students, connecting prime contractors with qualified black and small business owners.
Ohio’s Gov. John Kasich, via a statement shared his support for Black and Minority owned business. Ohio business owners in attendance commented on how Kasich’ has supported black businesses more than any other Ohio Governor. Mr. Don King, CEO of King Enterprises via a statement said,” These are very important times for America and I applaud each of you for bringing this summit to the Nation Capitol. I have always believed in America and it’s inclusiveness and it is my hope that out of this summit meaningful legislation is enacted to level the playing field that would allow for Black CEO’s to employ and empower, Only in America can such promise be fulfilled.” (Follow The Committee of 40 on Twitter @therealcommof40)
Dream of homeownership a nightmare for Blacks CONTINUED FROM C1
ministration is trying to do? They want to kill Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Instead of policing the programs and allowing them to grow back to their former greatness of allowing home mortgages throughout our nation, they want to put a bullet through their heads. This is very serious and it is going through the courts. It is so serious that the National Black Chamber of Commerce is jumping into the fray. We have filed an amicus, called friend of the court, brief in the federal court of appeals. Here is an overview that we formally submitted: “Amicus curiae the National Black Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to the economic empowerment of AfricanAmerican communities through entrepreneurship. Incorporated in 1993, the NBCC represents nearly 100,000 African American owned businesses and advocates on behalf of the 2.1 million Black-owned businesses in the United States. The NBCC has more than 190 affiliated chapters located throughout the nation, as well as international affiliates in, among others, the Bahamas, Brazil, Colombia, Ghana
and Jamaica.” “Because the NBCC is dedicated to creating economically-thriving AfricanAmerican communities, it is extremely concerned about the prospect that the Federal Housing Finance Agency will effectively eliminate Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. The NBCC believes that without those corporations providing for affordable credit, AfricanAmericans will be disproportionately unable to obtain conventional mortgages. Thus, if the FHFA is allowed to complete its attempted liquidation of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, affordable credit may well dissipate for minorities
(who already have a very difficult time obtaining loans). The NBCC therefore asks this Court to consider these interests in the course of its deliberations on this case.” The above is our Statement of Interest portion of the Amicus Brief, which is 18 pages long. We must make all of Black America aware of this. Does the Congressional Black Caucus have a concern? What about all of those Civil Rights organizations that have been around since the beginning of the 20th Century? What is their position on home ownership? How about the National Black Caucus of State Legisla-
tors? I don’t find the outrage anywhere. If the federal government has its way, the future of mortgages will be up in the air. Our subdivisions will turn to blankets of rentals and their values will sink much further than they have already done. That’s why we are fighting this. Our financial future is on the line and it could have a negative impact on the quality of life for our children, grandchildren and their children. We have no choice but to fight. (Harry Alford is the co-founder, President/CEO of the National Black Chamber of Commerce®. Website: www.nationalbcc.org Email: halford@nationalbcc.org)
Minority banks shut out
CONTINUED FROM C1
when applying for NMTCs, while non-minority entities had three times the success rate, winning 27 percent of the time. According to GAO, although the program is highly competitive, minority entities have less than a one in three chance of any other type of entity to receive an award.1 Minority banks have had even lower success rates than minority entities overall. “By our estimates, less than 2 percent of the $450 billion in NMTCs issued over the past 12 years has gone to minority banks,” said Doyle Mitchell, CEO of Industrial Bank of Washington, D.C. and former chairman of the bankers association.
“Some of our banks have been deploying capital in the poorest neighborhoods in America for over 100 years, and we think the CDFI Fund should review the program to ensure that applications by minority and other small CDFI banks are evaluated on criteria that reflects their position as regulated institutions operating in distressed areas, which is significantly different from non-regulated or larger institution applicants.” Alden McDonald, CEO of Liberty Bank in New Orleans, said the imbalance would be even more pronounced had it not been for funds his bank received after Hurricane Katrina.
JULY 16—The Southpointe Chamber of Commerce will host its Network Lunch from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at Bella Sera, 414 Morganza Rd., Canonsburg. This is the July monthly network meeting. Reservations are required. For more information, email freefriend@southpointe.net.
Special Breakfast Meeting JULY 17—The African American Chamber of Commerce of Western Pennsylvania will host a Special Breakfast Meeting at 8 a.m. at the Rivers Club, One Oxford Centre, 301 Grant St., Downtown. The breakfast will introduce Pittsburgh Police Chief Cameron McLay. He will update Chamber members on plans for law enforcement. The meeting was originally scheduled for July 10. Reservations are required. For more information, email call 412-392-0610 or email information@aaccwp.com.
Resume Assistance JULY 18— The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh will host its Resume Assistance from 12-2 p.m. at the Downtown & Business Branch, 612 Smithfield St., Downtown. Qualified volunteers and staff will be on hand to help individuals develop a strong resume to land an interview. Participants are asked to bring a copy or their resume. For more information, call 412-281-7141.
Business Institute Seminar JULY 22—The Business Institute of the African American Chamber of Commerce of Western Pennsylvania will host “How to do business with the Allegheny County Airport Authority” at 9 a.m. at the Koppers Building, 436 Seventh Ave., Downtown. Chamber members will be introduced to the Allegheny County Airport Authority’s procedures on doing business as well as their DBE/Outreach Manger and their procurement and construction teams to start the process of building relationships. This workshop is for Chamber Members only. Reservations are required. For more information, call 412-392-0610.
Lunch and Learn Series JULY 23— The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh will host its Lunch & Learn Series at 12:15 p.m. at the Downtown & Business Branch, 612 Smithfield St., Downtown. The topic will be “How to Start a Food Truck Business.” There will be a panel discussion where attendees will have the opportunity to learn how to start a food truck from local street vendors and Allegheny County Health Department officials. For more information, call 412-281-7141 or visit www.carnegielibrary.org.
Members’ Orientation JULY 28—The African American Chamber of Commerce of Western Pennsylvania will host its Members’ Orientation from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at the Koppers Building, 436 Seventh Ave., Downtown. This is a program for new and existing Chamber members. Individuals will learn the value of being a part of the Chamber’s organized body as well as get an overview of the Chamber and the Chamber Foundation. Reservations are required by July 24 and a box lunch is included. For more information, call 412-392-0610 or email information@aaccwp.com.
Lunch and Learn Series JULY 30— The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh will host its Lunch & Learn Series at 12:15 p.m. at the Downtown & Business Branch, 612 Smithfield St., Downtown. The topic will be “Small Business Research.” Attendees will learn how the library’s access to comprehensive print materials, e-resources and services for small business startups can help them open their business. For more information, call 412-281-7141 or visit www.carnegielibrary.org.
Final Fridays JULY 31—The Hill Community Development Corp. will host its Final Fridays Happy Hour at 5:30 p.m. at Savoy Lounge, 2623 Penn Ave., Strip District. The last Friday of every month through August, the Hill CDC will welcome guests to learn more about their programs and the Hill District community. For more information, call 412-7651820. (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.)
New Pittsburgh Courier
SPORTS
C3
JULY 15-21, 2015
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
Treasure hunt
Top 10 Heavyweights by Bill Neal For New Pittsburgh Courier
:10—It’s 3-2 Bucs in the top of the 7th. Yes, I am at my spot…No, not that spot…No, not that spot either…Yeah, that spot. Me and my secret investor Tim are holding down what might be the best baseball time in Pittsburgh since “The Lumber Company.” I’m gonna go out on a limb and predict the Pirates take this one and steal three out of four from the Cards, now the second best team in baseball!!! For the record minus a few mental errors, we would have swept the dirty birds! :09—Your Pittsburgh Steelers go to camp in two weeks and here’s what you need to know. 1. They kick it off at the Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. 2. Given Bell’s status, they have a chance of having the most powerful offense in football. 3. The defense is being re-shaped so hold judgment on that. You might be a bit surprised. 4. Big Ben may be on track to have the best year of his career. Following last year’s record setting year, with this BILL NEAL greatly improved receiving corp., this year could be huge. 5. Speaking of defense…new defensive coach…new defensive game plan. Super Bowl? Why not?
Overtime :08—Long overdue to be sure, but better late than never. Two new rookies enter “The Locker Room,” Ms. Myra and Ms. Jackie…you are now in The Locker Room…enjoy the run! Thanks for reading the New Pittsburgh Courier. :07—If you haven’t heard by now my good friend Jim O’Brien is at it again. He has written yet another exciting and factual book on our beloved Steelers. This one is on the madman in pads who answered to the name of “Mr.” Jack Lambert. Great read and great inside info. Keep up the good work Jimmy. :06—Real quick…also known as a quickie…no, not that kind. Get your mind out the gutter. We’re talking movies here. Magic Mike XXL, one of the worst movies ever made by man. I know it’s a chick flick, but there’s no way they enjoyed that garbage. No way! Would I feel different if it were women taking their clothes off? Yes! Only one (1) basketball…yuk! But Jurassic World, now that’s what movies are all about. Fun from start to finish. Three basketballs. :05—It’s not only what the great Serena Williams has done that makes her so remarkable…It’s what she’s going to do over the next five years before she’s done. Her records will be untouchable. :04—Just think Bill Cosby, if you had just given the ladies “JELL-O” you wouldn’t be in this mess now!!! What? :03—Hey, here’s that Top 10 list that you love so much…Yes, you do…Yes, you do…Yes - you - do! (By now I hope you know that when I do that I’m channeling “De Niro.” “You talking to me…You talking to me …You talking to me?) Oh never mind, let’s just do it. Top 10 heavyweight fighters of all time since we no longer have a heavyweight division to talk about. 1. Muhammad Ali. 2. Mike Tyson. 3. Joe Louis. 4. “Smokin” Joe Frazier. 5. Larry Holmes. 6. George Foreman. 7. Sonny Liston. 8. Evander Holyfield. 9. Rocky Marciano. 10. Ken Norton and Lennox Lewis are tied. (What say you? Text me your list at 412-628-4856. :02—I don’t want any of you to be shocked by this, but you do realize Tiger Woods is about to be “40” years old. That could be half the problem. That, plus he needs to get the “14” women back. I’m just sayin!!! :01—Lock it down…Lock it in. The 2nd Annual Pittsburgh City League All Sports Hall of Fame Inductions, honoring the best of the best City Leaguers of all time. Coming Saturday, Oct. 17, at the Wyndham Hotel Oakland Pittsburgh (formerly the Oakland Holiday Inn) 6 p.m. cocktail reception, 7 p.m. hors d’oeuvres/serving/cutting stations, 8 p.m. Hall of Fame Inductions, 10-12 midnight post-reception. Tickets $40 advance, $50 at the door. This time it’s on!!! Call for information Chuck Franklin at 412- 901-8495, Vince Neal at 412-352-5304 or Fred Lucas at 412999-7664. ~ GAME OVER ~
by Aubrey Bruce For New Pittsburgh Courier
OFFICIAL PIRATE—Swin Cash, right, poses with Pittsburgh Pirates General Manager Neal Huntington as he gives Swin her own Pirates shirt. (Photos by J.L. Martello)
African American Heritage hopes to strengthen Pirates RBI by Smokin’Jim Frazier
Andrew McCutchen proudly supports Pittsburgh non-profits by raising money through “Cutch’s Crew” a Pittsburgh Marathon team. Friday, The Pittsburgh Pirates celebrated the Members of Cutch’s Crew hosted events during contributions of African Americans to the game the season to raise money for Pirates Charities of baseball and the community as part of Afri- and Andrew designates the funds that are can-American Heritage Sports Luncheon On Sept. 1, 1971, the Pirates fielded what is believed to be the first all-Black lineup in the history of the league. After beating the San Francisco Giants in the 1971 National League Championship Series, the Pirates won the World Series, beating the Baltimore Orioles in seven games. “We are very proud of our past and proud of the players we have now,” said Pirates General Manager Neal Huntington. “What is important is how we represent you and the community. Baseball Clubs were for the elite and if we are not careful the game will be again only for the elite. We got to reach back into the inner city to get kids. We lost the inner city kids because baseball is too boring and it is! Turning that around takes time and we are committed to doing it.” Pittsburgh RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities), running under the auspices of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Western PA, provides baseball and softball programming. The mission of the Pittsburgh RBI program is to increase participation and interest in baseball and softball among underserved youth through instruction and competitive play, while encouraging youth to achieve academically, demonstrate good sportsmanship and contribute positively to the community. In 2014, Pirates Charities provided financial CHAZ KELLEM with closing remarks and in-kind support to RBI. This includes Coaches Clinics led by Pirates alumni, softball raised to local organizations. The Pirates Community Commitment Proclinics and educational seminars. “We took part along with United Way Al- gram is an organization-wide community service program for Pirates that promote community service and awareness, and provides benefit to the community, the individual player and the Pirates organization. Every player is required to complete a minimum of 10 hours of community service during their playing season. Keynote speaker for the luncheon was Swin Cash. She is a WNBA player for the New York Liberty and she won two national basketball championships at the University of Connecticut and is also a 2x Olympic Gold Medalist. “The first game I played wasn’t basketball it was little league baseball,” said Cash. “We got to start caring about (kids) not only in our family but also our community.” Pirates Charities is committed to strengthening the community by supporting organizations and programs aimed at improving the lives of children and adults in the greater Pittsburgh region. Pirates Charities places a special emphasis on supporting youth programs focused on health, fitness and education by developing partnerships with those who share in our mission. “I always say with visibility comes great responsibility. I got to stand here not just for myself but the future whose coming behind us,” said Cash. “You can’t have a plan A without a DOOR PRIZES—Swin Cash gives out door prizes Plan B and C. Let’s get back to Pittsburgh from the Pirates. strong.” The Pirates Charities Fields for Kids program legheny and some others in the renovation of has contributed to local youth baseball and softthe Willie Stargell Field and very few were alive ball organizations to improve their fields and fato remember Willie Stargell,” said Senior Vice cilities.? “Harrison Village Recreational Center President of Community & Public Affairs & Executive Director of Pirates Charities Patty Pay- (McKeesport) is where I started and now the tas. “Kids need to know and need to remember building is named after me,” said Cash. “My Willie and other pioneers of the game. They goal is to raise money through my non-profit orneed to know and understand their history of ganization to keep that building open. My orgaplayers not permitted to play baseball until nization is called “Cash for Kids” and this year 1947. Curtis Roberts was the first Black player we are celebrating our 10-year anniversary. I will be back in Pittsburgh on October 30 to work in Pirates history in 1954.” Although Jackie Robinson’s success in the with Pirates Charities to raise money to help Major Leagues in 1947 changed the course of serve the community.” The community and the RBI is in good hands baseball, his success also spelled the end of the Negro Leagues. The Negro Leagues disbanded with the partnership of 5x World Series Chamafter the 1950 season due to financial difficul- pion Pittsburgh Pirates and Olympic Hero Swin Cash. ties. For New Pittsburgh Courier
Check this out, boys’ and girls’. On July 13, 2014 the won-loss record of the Pittsburgh Pirates was 49-46, just a mere 3 games over .500. Pittsburgh was also in 4th place, just 3.5 games behind the NL Central Division leading Milwaukee Bucks. Hit the FFW button to July 13, 2015. The won-loss record of Pittsburgh is 53-35. The Pirates are currently 18 games above .500 and are 2.5 games out of the top spot of their division. The game of baseball can be a bit tricky. One year a team is in 4th place, 3 games over .500, 3.5 games out of 1st place around the AllStar break. The next year a squad is 18 games over .500, but reAUBREY BRUCE main 2.5 games out of the top spot in their division. Of course as we all know, the Milwaukee Brewers failed to qualify for the 2014 MLB post
Inside Conditions season and are currently 18.5 games out of 1st in the NL Central Division. What a difference a year makes! The Pittsburgh Pirates seemed to have found the map leading back to the “treasure of success” that was buried so long ago. The hidden bounty of talent that is being produced by the Pirates minor league system is beginning to pay dividends again. Access to the map revealing the Pirates the hidden treasure of the Pirates is no longer given to “pillagers” masquerading as general managers in exchange for providing the Pittsburgh squad with such meager provisions as bread, water and an adequate supply of citrus fruit to prevent “scurvy.” The Pirates now provide “fake” treasure maps of their own leading fortune hunters on a wild goose chase. The Pirates recently raided the New York Yankees stronghold and came away with a jewel named Francisco Cervelli. They also recovered a valuable piece stolen from them by the Philadelphia Phillies named A.J. Burnett. No longer can the talent “vultures” sit on the Bradenton spring training fence, waiting for a piece of Pittsburgh talent to land in their coffers for little or nothing. The usurpers and talent seeking mercenaries of MLB, no longer have a clear and unimpeded path to the riches of the Pittsburgh Pirates baseball club. Playoff bound teams looking for a piece here and a piece there to solidify their position in the post season are no longer sailing away from “Pirates Island” with a shipload of Pirates developed talent, freely reaping the harvest nurtured and developed by the Pirates organization. The days of Pittsburgh giving away 2 “genuine” prospects for 10 “hopefuls” and a player to be named later are long gone, or at least they should be. The Pirates are now the team that must be thinking about adding to their roster in anticipation of performing in the post season. Pittsburgh must now be of the mindset of giving away a few crumbs in order to come away with a full pie. Remember that the: “the Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away.” That may work when you are sitting squarely in the church pew. However in the real world; “the Lord giveth and many just take.” The Pittsburgh Pirates must always remember that…Amen (Aubrey Bruce can be reached at: abruce@newpittsburghcourier.com or 412583-6741. He is also a contributing columnist for urbanmediatoday.com. Follow him on Twitter@ultrascribe.)
New Pittsburgh Courier
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P/T POSITIONS
NEED has P/T positions open in its college readiness and male mentoring programs. These positions are an excellent choice for college grads and graduate school students. We are seeking highly motivated individuals with experience and willingness to work with school aged children. They must have a sincere passion and desire to help our youth succeed. Exp teaching, facilitating groups, act 33/34 & FBI clearance reqʼd. Bachelorʼs degree preferred. Forward resumes, references and clearances to abrettholle@needld.org
DUQUESNE CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT
The Duquesne City School District is seeking the following Substitutes: PK-6 Regular & Special Education, Long Term Substitute Teachers. Requirements include a valid PA teaching certificate. ALL candidates must have current Act 151/34/114 clearances. Additional information can be found on the Districtʼs website www.dukecitysd.org. Please send resume and cover letter to Duquesne City School District, 300 Kennedy Avenue, Duquesne, Pa 15110, ATTN: Human Resources/PR. EOE
CASEWORKER I
Three Rivers Adoption Council is looking for a Caseworker I to assist the Agencyʼs foster / adopt program by providing transportation, supervision, and homevisit services. The applicant must be able to manage scheduling of transports, supervised visits, and caseload of 2 – 5 placements. Applicant needs to have a Bachelorʼs degree and 0-1 year work experience. Please submit a letter of inquiry and resume to jshoenberger@3riversadopt.org or mail to 307 Fourth Ave, Suite 310, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
CHILD SPECIFIC RECRUITER
Three Rivers Adoption Council is looking for a Child Specific Recruiter to work on finding permanent homes for older and special needs children in the foster care system. Applicant must be able to provide direct assistance to all families interested in adoption and foster care through intake and orientation. Applicant must perform community outreach through general recruiting events. Applicant must have a Bachelorʼs Degree and 1 – 2 yearsʼ work experience in case management or social work. Please submit a letter of inquiry and resume to jjones@3riversadopt.org or mail to 307 Fourth Ave, Suite 310, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
PROJECT LEAD – PEOPLESOFT MAINTENANCE WORK ORDER SYSTEM
Port Authority is seeking a Project Lead – PeopleSoft professional who will serve as the primary PeopleSoft support contact related to the Maintenance Work Order System (MWOS). Works with Authority and vendor personnel to identify and fix any PeopleSoft related issues with the MWOS and customize codes in development environment for production if needed. Works with PeopleSoft development team internally to develop best-practice procedures, document new development projects, and ensure PeopleSoft customization quality assurance. Job requirements include: •High School diploma. •BS Degree in Computer Science, Information Science or a technology related field from an accredited school or related discipline. Related experience may be substituted for the education on a year-for-year basis. •Must have a minimum of four (4) years of programming in which three (3) yearsʼ experience in PeopleSoft Finance modules. •Must demonstrate a thorough understanding of Application Engine, SQL, SQR, Crystal, Application Designer, Trace, Integration Broker/Component Interface and other development tools •Must have demonstrated experience in troubleshooting technical problems in PeopleSoft. •Excellent customer service and problem resolution skills. •Professional and effective communication skills. •Exemplary attention to detail. •Ability to be flexible and adapt to change. Preferred attributes: •Experience with maintenance work order system programming. •Experience with PeopleSoft FSCM Development. •Experience with Web Application Development. We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Interested candidates should forward a cover letter (with salary requirements) and resume to: Amy Giammanco Employment Department 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 AGiammanco@portauthority.org EOE
PROPERTY MANAGER
Experience required in Leasing, Rent Collections, Coordination of Maintenance Activities; Knowledge of Current HUD Regulations Including EIV Required; Familiarity with YARDI property management system a plus Paid vacation, Benefits Respond to dallen@ahrco.com or BY FAX TO (412) 687-9725
VIRTUAL CONSTRUCTION & LEED SPECIALIST (P.J. Dick Incorporated/ Pittsburgh, PA)
This position is responsible for creating virtual designs/drawings and other modeling activities using building information modeling (BIM) software, CAD, and other advanced technical programs, with an emphasis on public and school facilities. Requirements: Bachelorʼs degree in Architecture, Architectural Engineering, or Construction Management; two yearsʼ experience in the job offered or any related occupation within the commercial building construction industry; LEED AP BD & C certification; knowledge of sustainable design in public and school facilities; ability to monitor the LEED rating system; professional Certificate of Management-Building Information Modeling (CM-BIM) certification; and experience working with AutoCAD, Constructware, BIM Technology, Navisworks, Illustrator, and Job Cost Estimating Software. Applicants must also be willing to work at various unanticipated work locations throughout the U.S. Interested individuals must apply online at www.pjdick.com. EOE–Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran ANNOUNCEMENTS Public Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE OPENING OF THE SKYLINE TERRACE FOUR- (4) BEDROOM SITE BASED WAITING LIST
Effective Thursday, July 9, 2015, the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) will re-open the Skyline Terrace four- (4) bedroom waiting list to households that require a four- (4) bedroom unit. Not all households will be eligible for a four- (4) bedroom unit, as the age, gender and relationships of household members affect the number of bedrooms for which a household is eligible. Families of various sizes can qualify for four- (4) bedroom units, but some restrictions apply. Families may have no less than one- (1) person per bedroom and no more than two- (2) persons per bedroom. Children of the same sex, under the age of eighteen- (18), share a bedroom. Children of opposite sex share a bedroom until the oldest child reaches the age of three- (3). HACP will only be accepting pre-applications in person. Pre-applications can be made at the HACP Occupancy Department, 100 Ross Street, 4th Floor, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219. Persons with disabilities requiring accommodation to submit a pre-application can contact the Disability Compliance office at 412-456-5282. For information about obtaining a pre-application, please contact the Occupancy Department at 412-4565030 or visit our website at www.hacp.org. For those that are deaf or hard of hearing, you can also contact HACP at TDD: 412-2015384. This event is for the new Skyline Terrace Community ONLY and is completely separate from the HACP Housing Choice Voucher and Low Income Public Housing Programs. The Housing Authority of the City Of Pittsburgh Occupancy Department 100 Ross Street – 4th Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15219
LEGAL ADVERTISING Legal Notices
SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA COMMISSION
The Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission has set the following meeting dates for July 2015 through June 2016. The Commission Executive Committee meetings will begin at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, July 27, September 28, December 14, 2015 and January 25, March 28, June 27, 2016, and at 1:00 p.m. on April 25, 2016. The regular meetings of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission will begin at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, July 27, September 28, December 14, 2015 and January 25, March 28, and June 27, 2016. All meetings will be held in Suite 400, Two Chatham Center, 112 Washington Place, Pittsburgh, PA. SPC is committed to compliance with the non-discrimination requirements of applicable civil rights statutes, Executive Orders, regulations and policies. Meeting facilities are accessible by persons with disabilities. Accommodations may be provided for those with special needs related to language, sight or hearing with 72 hours advance notice. If you have a request for special accommodations or desire additional information, please contact Matt Pavlosky at (412) 391-5590, Ext. 361, or mpavlosky@spcregion.org.
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LEGAL ADVERTISING
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Legal Notices
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Estate Notices
Letters have been granted on the estate of each of the following decedents to the personal representative named who request all persons having claims against the estate of the decedent to make known the same in writing to him or his attorney, and all persons indebted to the decedent to make payment to him without delay:
Estate of PALKAY, ANNA P. a/k/a PALKAY, ANNE P., deceased of Richland Township, No 03556 of 2015, Arlene Palkay Exec., 17171 Roscoe Blvd., Apt. 108A, Northridge, CA 91325 or to Michael J. Saldamarco, Esq., 908 Perry Highway, Suite 100, Pittsburgh, PA 15229.
Estate of HALEY, DOLORES, deceased of Pittsburgh, PA, No. 021504065, Deborah Creek c/o Judith A. Lehnowsky, Atty., 820 Evergreen Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15209.
Estate of GROSICK, CHARLES R., deceased of Ohio Township, Allegheny County, No. 003828 of 2015, David Grosick, Executor, 7681 Brookstone Drive, West Chester, OH 45069 or to Witherel & Associates, 966 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh, PA 15237. Estate of CARROLL, LAURA JEAN, deceased of Aleppo Twp., No. 021504011, Laura Jean Carroll Boyce, Executrix, 3227 North County Road 25 W, Brazil, Indiana 47834, or to R.M. Entwisle, III, Atty., 125 1st Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222.
Estate of RICHTER, ROSALIND, deceased, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, No. 02-15-02988, Barbara Helmrich and Kenneth M. Richter, CoExecutors c/o Tener, Van Kirk, Wolf & Moore, PC, One Oxford Centre, Suite 2100, 301 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 or to Nancy L. Rackoff, Esquire, Tener, Van Kirk, Wolf & Moore, PC, One Oxford Centre, Suite 2100, 301 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.
LEGAL ADVERTISING Legal Notices
COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY PITTSBURGH, PA July 1, 2015
The Office of the Director of the Department of Public Works for Allegheny County in conjunction with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, is soliciting Statements of Interest through PennDOTs ECMS system for the following: ALLEGHENY COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS Preliminary Engineering, Final Design, and Construction Support Services For Rehabilitation of the Kenmawr Avenue Ramp and Talbot Avenue Ramp Bridges County Project No. MA07-KN04 and MA07-TL04 ECMS No. 93917 Local Agreement Number: L00033 This is a federal-aid project with PennDOT oversight. Statements of Interest are due no later than July 17, 2015 and are to be submitted through PennDOTs ECMS System, http://www.dot14.state.pa.us/ECMS The advertisement can be found under agreement number L00033. A copy of the published advertisement can also be found on the County Website: http://www.county.allegheny.pa.us/bids Any inquiries into this Advertisement are to be directed to Mr. Richard Connors, Bridge Division Manager at 412-350-6671 or richard.connors@alleghenycounty.us The County will use the normal selection process and preselect or short-list at least three firms for consideration for this Project assignment on the following evaluation criteria: Experience, Quality Control and Quality Assurance, Performance on Past Projects, Use and Experience of Subconsultants, and Assurance of Project Milestones. The Countyʼs Minority and Women disadvantaged goals for these Projects will be 13% of the total price for MBE participation and 2% of the total price for WBE participation. Stephen G. Shanley, PE, Director Department of Public Works of Allegheny County
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COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY PITTSBURGH, PA June 29, 2015
The Office of the Director of the Department of Public works for Allegheny County in Conjunction with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, is soliciting Statements of Interest through PennDOTs ECMS system for the following: ALLEGHENY COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS Design and Construction Support Services For Rehabilitation of the Armstrong Tunnels County Project No. AR01-0307 ECMS No. 93922 Local Agreement Number: L00087 This is a federal-aid project with PennDOT oversight. Statements of Interest are due no later than July 17, 2015and are to be submitted through PennDOTs ECMS System, http://www.dot14.state.pa.us/ECMS The advertisement can be found under agreement number L00087. A copy of the published advertisement can also be found on the County Website: http://www.county.allegheny.pa.us/bids Any inquiries into this Advertisement are to be directed to Mr. Michael Burdelsky, Project Manager at 412-350-5914 or mburdelsky@alleghenycounty.us The County will use the normal selection process and preselect or short-list at least three firms for consideration for this Project assignment on the following evaluation criteria: Experience, Quality Control and Quality Assurance, Performance on Past Projects, Use and Experience of Subconsultants, and Assurance of Project Milestones. The Countyʼs Minority and Women disadvantaged goals for these Projects will be 13% of the total price for MBE participation and 2% of the total price for WBE participation. Stephen G. Shanley, PE, Director Department of Public Works of Allegheny County LEGAL ADVERTISING Bids/Proposals
LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT: INVITATION FOR BIDS INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR IMPROVEMENTS @GENERAL BRADDOCK TOWER – PHASE 3 620 SIXTH STREET NORTH BRADDOCK, PA 15104 CONTRACT NO. ACHA-1542 – 1/GC -GENERAL CONTRACT NO. ACHA-1542 – 2/PC -PLUMBING CONTRACT NO. ACHA-1542 – 3/EC -ELECTRICAL
The Allegheny County Housing Authority (ACHA) is requesting bids from qualified contractors for the INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR IMPROVEMENTS AT GENERALBRADDOCK TOWER PHASE 3 ACHA 1542 – 1/GC, 2/PC, 3/EC in the community of North Braddock, Pennsylvania 15104. Bid and Contract Documents will be on file after Monday 13/July/2015 on the Pittsburgh Builderʼs Exchange, or the McGraw-Hill websites, and may be obtained at the Allegheny County Housing Authority, 625 Stanwix Street, 12th Floor, Pittsburgh, PA, 15222, or by contacting the ACHA at 412-402-2464. A non-refundable fee is required for each set of Contract Documents (certified check or money order only) $75 for paper documents and/or $25 for PDF files on Compact Disc. A pre-bid conference will be held on Thursday 23/July/2015, at 10:00AM at the Allegheny County Housing Authority 625 Stanwix Street 12th Floor Pittsburgh, Pa 15222. Bids are due by 2:00 PM local time on Tuesday 11/August/2015 at the Allegheny County Housing Authority, at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. The Allegheny County Housing Authority encourages responses from small, minority, and women owned firms, as well as firms that have not previously performed work for the ACHA. Frank Aggazio, Executive Director
COURIER CLASSIFIEDS…THE ONLY WAY TO GO!
LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT Port Authority of Allegheny County REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL NO. 15-04
Port Authority of Allegheny County is requesting proposals for the performance of the following service: DISPATCH BID AND CUSTOMER SERVICE PROGRAM The work under the proposed Agreement consists of providing a software system to replace its existing Bid Dispatch System (BDS) and Customer Service Complaint System (CSCS). The BDS will be the official record source for all light rail and bus Operators performing daily and weekly schedules, and will include, but not be limited to, Operator assignments, Operator accrual information, payroll records, and time sheets. The CSCS will handle efficiently and effectively customer inquiries and complaints in coordination with the latest customer information systems. The Contractor must provide both the BDS and the CSCS; separate awards for these two systems will not be considered. Both the BDS and CSCS shall be developed from off-the-shelf software, and shall interface and interoperate with other existing and anticipated Authority software. The term of the Agreement will include the negotiated development, installation, testing, acceptance, implementation and warranty period, plus an initial maintenance and support period. Authority, in its sole discretion, may extend the term of this Agreement by one or more written amendments for additional maintenance and support years. A copy of the RFP will be available on or after July 9, 2015 and can be obtained by registering at the Port Authority ebusiness website: http://ebusiness.portauthority.org and following the directions listed on the website. Please note that Proposers must register under the ebusiness category of PSSC – Pro Services Software Consulting for this RFP. Proposers may also register in other categories for any future RFPs issued by Port Authority. If you have specific questions regarding this RFP, please contact Robert Sechler at (412) 566-5148. An Information Meeting for interested parties will be held at 9:30 AM. prevailing time, July 28, 2015 in the Fifth Floor Board Room of Port Authority of Allegheny Countyʼs downtown offices, 345 Sixth Avenue to answer any questions regarding this RFP. Hard copy proposals must be delivered by 2:00 p.m., prevailing time, August 20, 2015 to the Purchasing and Materials Management Department, Port Authority of Allegheny County, 345 Sixth Avenue, Third Floor, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15222-2527 This Contract Services may be funded, in part, by, and subject to certain requirements of, the County of Allegheny and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The proposal process and the performance of the requested services will be in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Port Authority of Allegheny County, 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 these Contract Services. In this regard, all Proposers 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. Proposers 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 these Contract Services. Port Authority of Allegheny County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.
To place a display ad in the New Pittsburgh Courier call 412-481-8302 ext. 128 or 129
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
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NOTICE TO BIDDERS
The Sports & Exhibition Authority will receive sealed bids for Concession Stand B Renovation (trade package) as identified below for the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. The design engineer is GBBN Architects. 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 DLCC 1000 Ft Duquesne Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, Attention: Project Manager Ryan Buries E-mail: rburies@pittsburghcc.com, Telephone: 412-325-6179. 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-Copyʼs website at www.accu-copy.com/planroom The Instructions to Bidders that is part of the Bid Package will set forth in detail the conditions of the Bid, which will include, among other things, the following: (a) Bids. Bids shall be sealed and submitted on the Bid form provided. Bids will be opened publicly. The contract will be a prime contract with the Owner. Bids may be held open by Owner for acceptance for a period not to exceed ninety (90) days. (b) Bid Bonds. All Bids will require a ten percent (10%) surety in the form of a Bid Bond, a certified check, or cashierʼs check in the amount of no less than ten percent (10%) of the total amount of the Base Bid (unless otherwise noted in the Bid Form Document). The surety is required as a guarantee that the bidder will, if awarded the contract, enter into a written contract with the Owner. All sureties must be licensed to conduct business in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Bid Bonds should name Owner as obligee. All checks should be made payable to the order of Owner. (c) Letter of Assent. All bidders must acknowledge their agreement to the terms of the Project Labor Agreement by submitting a Letter of Assent with their bid. (d) MBE and WBE Participation. The SEA has goals of 25% MBE and 10% WBE participation in this project. Bidders must provide a completed Certificate of MBE/WBE Participation form and a Solicitation Statement with their bid. (e) Non-Collusion Affidavit. (f) Public Works Employment Verification Form. This Advertisement applies to the following Bid Package: Project: David L. Lawrence Convention Center Bid Package Name: Concession Stand B Renovation Bid Package Available: July 14, 2015 Approximate Value: $100,000 Pre-Bid Meeting: 10:00 AM, Thursday, July 16, 2015, DLCC Admin Office Time/Date/Location for Bid: 2:00 PM, Wednesday, July 29, 2015, DLCC, 1000 Ft Duquesne Blvd Pittsburgh, PA 15222, Attn: Ryan Buries
INVITATION FOR BIDS
The Washington County Housing Authority will receive separate sealed bids for a single general prime contract with the Authority for 504 Accessibility at Valley View Terrace, Canonsburg, PA. A certified check or bank draft, payable to the Washington County Housing Authority, U.S. Government Bonds, or a satisfactory Bid Bond executed by the bidder and acceptable sureties in the amount equal to ten percent (10%) of the bid shall be submitted with each bid. Bids will be received no later than 2:00 P.M. prevailing time, Wednesday, August 5, 2015 at the Washington County Housing Authority, 100 Crumrine Tower, Franklin St., Washington, PA 15301 at which time the bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. Bids will be held by the Housing Authority for a period of not to exceed 60 days prior to contract award. A Pre-Bid Meeting will be held July 23, 2015 at 10:00 A.M at Valley View Terrace Community Room, 518 Dawson Street, Canonsburg, PA Plans and specifications are available at the office of the Architect, Shaeffer & Madama, Inc., 57 Fourteenth St., Wheeling, WV 26003, (304) 232-4123 upon receipt of one hundred dollar ($100.00) deposit sent directly to the Architect and are on file at: Builders Exchange 1813 N. Franklin St. Pittsburgh, PA 15233 or on-line at Reed Construction Data www.reedconstructiondata.com Any unsuccessful bidder, upon returning such set to the Architectʼs office within ten (10) days after bid opening and in good, reusable condition will receive their refund less postage; non-bidders will not receive a refund. The work to be performed under this contract is a Section 3 Project under provisions of the Housing & Urban Development Act of 1968, as amended, and must, to the greatest extent feasible, provide opportunities for training and employment for lower-income residents of the project and contracts for work in connection with the project be awarded to business concerns which are located in, or owned by, Washington County residents. Particular attention is directed to requirements of Executive Order 11246, 11625 and 12138, as well as Section 3 requirements, as set forth in the Specifications The Washington County Housing Authority reserves the right to reject any or all bids or waive any informality in the bidding. STEPHEN K. HALL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
NOTICE TO PROPOSERS
The Sports & Exhibition Authority of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County (SEA) will receive proposals for DIGITAL MENU BOARD SYSTEM FOR FOOD SERVICE as identified below. The contract for this work will be with the Sports & Exhibition Authority of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County. The Request for Proposals may be obtained after the date identified below from Ryan Buries, E-mail: rburies@pittsburghcc.com, Telephone: (412) 325-6179, Facsimile: (412) 325-6104. This Advertisement applies to the following Request for Proposal: Project: Digital Menu Board System for Food Service RFP Available: July 14, 2015 Pre-Proposal Meeting: 9:30 AM Wednesday, July 16, 2015, David Lawrence Convention Center, SMG Admin Office- Board Room,1000 Ft. Duquesne Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Time/Date/Location for Proposals: 2:00 PM, Wednesday, July 28, 2015, David Lawrence Convention Center, 1000 Ft Duquesne Blvd, Pittsburgh, PA 15222
NOTICE TO BIDDERS REQUEST FOR BIDS – BP #0715 CONCESSION STAND EQUIPMENT
Bids for furnishing materials and performing all work necessary and incidental to the completion of the below listed bid package for the David L. Lawrence Convention Center may be delivered to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, 1000 Fort Duquesne Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15222 at the time and date indicated below. Specifications may be ordered at no charge from: George Meehan David L. Lawrence Convention Center 1000 Fort Duquesne Boulevard Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Phone: 412/325-6120, ext 6230 Fax: 412/325-6181 gmeehan@pittsburghcc.com No bids may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for receipt of it for a period of sixty (60) days. Bids shall be plainly marked, “Bid”, with name of project, bid package number, name and address of bidder, time and date due. The Owner reserves the right to reject any and all bids received, including the lowest dollar bid, and to waive any and all informalities or irregularities in regard thereto as deemed in the best interest of the Owner. Bid Package No: BP #0715 Bid Package Name: Concession Stand Equipment Package Available: July 15, 2015 Time/Date/Location for Bid: July 28, 2015 at 2:00 PM at the office of the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, 1000 Fort Duquesne Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15222, Administrative Office attention George Meehan with Levy Restaurants Bids may be e-mailed to the attention of George Meehan at gmeehan@pittsburghcc.com Estimated Cost: $30,000.00
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) FOR Legal Services RFQ #700-23-15
The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request proposals from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): Legal Services RFQ #700-23-15 The documents will be available no later than July 13, 2015 and signed, sealed proposals will be accepted until 11:00 A.M., August 3, 2015 at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street, 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Parties or individuals interested may obtain information from: Mr. Kim Detrick – Procurement Director/Contracting Officer Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 2nd Floor, Suite 200 100 Ross Street Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-456-5116, Option 1 or by visiting the Business Opportunities section of www.hacp.org A pre bid meeting will be held: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 200 Ross Street, 9th Floor, Board Room Pittsburgh, PA 15219 July 24, 2015 11:00 A.M. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation. HACPʼs has revised their website. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and 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.
COURIER CLASSIFIEDS
SONNY BOY
LEGAL ADVERTISING Bids/Proposals
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
In preparation for the release of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)ʼs annual Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA), DHS issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to provide HUD Permanent Supportive Housing Programs, due July 31, 2015, and a Request for Letters of Interest to provide a HUD Bonus Project, due July 24, 2015. For more details and submission information, visit http://www.alleghenycounty.us/ dhs/active-solicitations.aspx Marc Cherna, Director Allegheny County Department of Human Services
ALLEGHENY COUNTY SANITARY AUTHORITY LEGAL NOTICE CONTRACT NO. 1629-A
Sealed Bids for CONTRACT NO. 1629-A – SUPPLY AND DELIVER TOW BOAT shall be received at the office of the Allegheny County Sanitary Authority, 3300 Preble Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15233, until 2:00 P.M., Prevailing Time, Tuesday, August 25, 2015 and then shall be publicly opened and read. ALCOSAN encourages businesses owned and operated by minorities and women to submit bids on Authority Contracts or to participate as subcontractors or suppliers to successful Bidders. Successful Bidders are to use minority and womenʼs businesses to the fullest extent possible. A non-mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting will be held at the Authorityʼs Plant, on Tuesday, July 28, 2015 at 2:00 P.M. Prevailing Time. Attendance at this meeting is strongly suggested. Contract Documents may be examined and obtained at the office of the Authority. A non-refundable fee of $50 (no cash will be accepted) will be charged for each set of Contract Documents received. Bid Security shall be furnished with the Bid in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the bid. Any questions regarding the Contract Documents should be directed in writing to Jeffrey S. Mazza, P.E. at jeffrey.mazza@alcosan.org, or faxed to 412-734-8716. The Authority reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to waive any informality in any bid and to accept any bid should it be deemed in the interest of the Authority to do so. ALLEGHENY COUNTY SANITARY AUTHORITY David W. Borneman, P.E. Director of Engineering and Construction
America’s Best Weekly
315 East Carson Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Classifieds 412-481-8302 Ext. 113 or 140 E-mail: ads@newpittsburghcourier.com Deadline/Closing/Cancellation schedule for copy, corrections, and cancellations: Friday noon preceding Wednesday publication
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HEFTY CROWD AT NORTH SHORE’S STAGE AE (Photos by Rossano P. Stewart)
LAUREN KNIGHT
Community comes out in support of WAMO Day 2015
BUST-A-MOVE—Dance troop, Hip-Hop Fundamentals, gives lessons to audience participants.
by Paige Mitchell Pittsburgh’s No. 1 radio station for hip-hop and R&B, recently held their most anticipated event of the year... WAMO Day! The event took place on June 28 at Stage AE. Every year, WAMO holds this event where family and friends can gather to enjoy live entertainment, good music and fun. DJ and radio personality Mike Jax kept the crowd moving as he deejayed during the event, and was sure to play all the latest tunes. Two of WAMO’s hottest radio personalities hosted the event; Sharmyn Shanell and Jax. “WAMO Day seems to be getting better and better every year,” attendee Rich Jeter said. “I got to give credit when its due, and I appreciate this event because it gives an opportunity for the entire family to
get out and have fun! Shout out to Pittsburgh’s #1 Radio Station.” Live performances included singer Shana Valre, rapper Kidd Keem, SCR, and more. And live entertainment didn’t stop there, there were also live dancing and gospel performances. Rapper Boaz was the main performing event. “I had to come through to support my favorite group, SCR, and hear Boaz rap my jam! But I enjoyed all the performances, and I support all Pittsburgh local talent,“ attendee Danica Boyd said. WAMO was sure to take care of the kids of the community by providing Clowns, balloons, Moon Bounces, games, and face painting. Contests took place during WAMO Day, where WAMO gave event attendees the opportunity to play games and enter drawings to win multiple prizes. They
REALLY RAKIYA Hip-hop artist
‘THE MAYOR’ DJ MIKE JAX
For New Pittsburgh Courier
gave away Kennywood tickets, Nicki Manaj and Wiz Khalifa concert tickets, 4th of July Comedy Show tickets and WAMO T-Shirts. “I believe summer is all about spending quality time with family and
WAMO CREW—From left: Philip Billingslea, Lamica Davenport, Lisha Logan, Mark Brown and Jamal Woodson. friends, and it’s because of events like WAMO Day that make it possible. This was a great event to attend with my whole family. My kids had fun,“ attendee Cheri Chapman said. Residents of the city came
from all neighborhoods to attend this year’s WAMO Day and filled the venue for family fun. Malikqua Salter of WAMO’s Street Team said, “WAMO Day took a lot of hard work and preparation
into making this event happen. Waking up early hours, attending meetings, holding auditions, and more but after seeing the overall result of the event, I quickly realized it was all worth it.”