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44 of 60 Remembering homicides Constance Parker Black lives 1942-2017
Her dedication to the position of NAACP president took a backseat to no one
by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
She wasn’t as educated on paper as Byrd Brown, didn’t have the musical talent of Tim Stevens, and wasn’t the firebrand that defined Harvey Adams. However, Constance Parker’s dedication to the position of president of the NAACP Pittsburgh branch, and to the people whose rights it fought for, took a backseat to no one. Parker died July 27 after battling the effects of a series of strokes. She was 74. “She had a sense of commitment that equaled or surpassed any of her predecessors,” said New Pittsburgh Courier columnist and longtime friend Louis “Hop” Kend-
CONSTANCE PARKER
rick. “She would wear me out on the phone because her concern over the plight of her people was so fierce. I remember when she had her first stroke, she was back at the office almost right away. I told her to go home and rest. She said, ‘No I can’t do that.’” Born in Philadelphia, Parker had a long career with PennDOT, serving as the community relations coordinator for the department’s District 11 headquarters. Until her health began taking a turn for the worse several months ago, she also served on the Port Authority of Allegheny County’s board of directors. With the NAACP, she served the Pittsburgh branch in various capacities for more than 25 years, including first vice president, before being elected to lead the branch in 2012. Always a woman of strong faith, Parker said of her election that “God SEE PARKER A5
Hammonds II helps young Black males ‘fulfill their purpose’
by Rob Taylor Jr.
program was born. Since returning to Pittsburgh five years ago from Dallas, Hammonds II has made it a personal ordeal to save as many Black youth as possible from what the world brings them. “I was a knucklehead at one point, out there doing so many different things,” Hammonds II said. “Now, here’s my opportunity to go out there and save the youth from some of the same stumbling blocks and pitfalls that I went through. What better thing to do…because our youth right now, they’re dying daily. We
Courier Staff Writer
Leonard Hammonds II has been there, done that, and now he’s doing all he can to make sure area young Black males don’t head down the same path. The 1994 Penn Hills High School graduate told the New Pittsburgh Courier he spent eight years in the marines serving his country. “And I said, once I got out, now is my opportunity to serve the community, and there’s no end date in sight.” Thus, the Pipeline to Purpose
all have a responsibility to get out here and do what we can.” Each Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Penn Hills YMCA, Hammonds II holds an hour-long session with area Black youth, teaching them how to stay out of trouble, while allowing them to express feelings they might not be able to express anywhere else. “Friendship” is one of the main components that is taught, said Tyvon Johnson, a member of the program. “And not doing bad things, learning from the mistakes I did. And to be responsible for what you do, and to call him
when you need anything,” Johnson added. Fourteen-year-old Damien Chavis said the meetings help him “learn about trust, and not to carry a gun. And Mr. Hammonds tells us everything that happened with him, and how he saw dead bodies, and how he doesn’t want us to go through that.” Hammonds II actually founded two previous programs last year; Reach and Teach, and Strides of Confidence. In the Reach and Teach program, he found that
10 of 12 July victims were African American by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
As the dog days of 2017 approach, the killings in Allegheny County have become more heated. July’s homicides included the brutal shooting of a potential homicide witness because she was screaming, and the brazen daylight shooting of two men in Larimer. They also included two victims who died after being shot
years earlier. In all, 83 percent of July’s homicide victims were Black: JULY 1—Romeke Freeman, a 22-year-old Black male, was found by Pittsburgh police with a fatal gunshot wound to the head outside a home in the 400 Block of S. Aiken Avenue in Garfield. He was taken to UPMC Presbyterian where he died about three hours later. Police have not identified a suspect. The investigation is ongoing. JULY 2—Jeremiah Jones, a 19-year-old Black male, was found fatally shot around 3 a.m. in a remote wooded area off Lougeay Road in Wilkins Township. Allegheny County police Chief Andrew Sherman said it appeared he had driven there to meet someone. No suspect has been identified as of yet. The investigation continues. JULY 4—Erric Jackson, a 28-year-old Black male, died as a result of a gunshot wound to the head he received in 2010. In 2015, Melvin “We-eye” Smalls, who
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Generett begins new chapter by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer
LEONARD HAMMONDS II listens to comments made by Rhyheim Sutton, a participant in the Pipeline to Purpose program at the Penn Hills YMCA. (Photo by John Ford)
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Bill Generett, who announced he would be stepping down as President of Urban Innovation21 in April, has been named Duquesne University’s new vice president for Community Engagement. While he said he is honored and excited about the opportunity to bolster the university’s ongoing community involvement efforts, perhaps the best part of the job is, he doesn’t have to leave town. “I was this close to going to Erie, and while that would have been a great opportunity, I get to stay here, and take this position. I feel very blessed,” he told the New Pittsburgh Courier. “Duquesne is a Spiritan institution and has the moral underSEE GENERETT A12
Louis ‘Hop’ Kendrick says
BILL GENERETT
The conditions of Blacks Up South (Pittsburgh) in 1948 Forum B4
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INTERNATIONAL
Blind Aboriginal musician dies in Australia at age 46
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
This Week In Black History
The week of Aug. 2-8 August 2 1924—A man who would grow up to become one of the most prolific and complex Black writers of the 20th Century is born SYDNEY (AP)—A blind on this day in New York City. James A. Baldwin was a novelAboriginal musician reist, short story writer and poet. His works frequently had racial nowned for singing in his and sexual themes. In addition, he penned powerful essays on native Yolngu language the Civil Rights Movement. Baldwin’s homosexuality is believed with a heart-rending voice by many to have been a result of being raised by a “hard and and a unique guitar-playoften brutal father” and a submissive mother. Among his best ing style has died, his reknown works are “Go Tell It on the Mountain,” “Giovanni’s cording label said WednesRoom,” and “The Fire Next Time.” In that last book, he predicted JAMES A. BALDWIN day. He was 46. major upheavals in America if profound efforts were not taken Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunto resolve the nation’s racial problems. He wrote, “If we do not now dare everything, upingu, whose is now rethe fulfillment of that prophecy, recreated from the Bible in song by a slave, is upon us. ferred to by local media as God gave Noah the Rainbow sign, no more water, the fire next time.” Baldwin died in Dr. G. Yunupingu because France on Nov. 30, 1987. of cultural sensitivities 1966—The Charles R. Drew Post Graduate Medical School (now Charles R. among northern Australian Drew University of Medicine and Science) is chartered in Los Angeles, Calif. The Aborigines around naming school was named in honor of the foremost Black doctor and research scientist of the the dead, died Tuesday first half of the 20th Century. Drew did pioneering work in blood transfusions and in after a long illness in a the development of blood plasma. Drew’s life was cut short on April 1, 1950 as a result Darwin Hospital, west of an automobile accident in North Carolina. of his ancestral country 1980—Thomas “Hit Man” Hearns wins the WBA welterknown as Arnhem Land, weight title. It was one of the titles he won in five different Darwin-based Skinnyfish weight classes. Hearns was the first Black boxer to achieve that Music said in a statement. feat. “Yunupingu is rememAugust 3 bered today as one of the 1928—The Atlanta Daily World begins publication as the most important figures in first Black daily newspaper in modern times. It was founded by Australian music histoWilliam A. Scott III. Amazingly, the first Black daily newspaper ry, blind from birth and in history—the New Orleans Tribune—was founded one year emerging from the remote before the end of slavery in 1864. RENOWNED VOCALIST—In this Nov. 27, 2011 file photo, aborigiGaliwin’ku community on August 4 Elcho Island off the coast of nal singer Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu, left, arrives for the Aus1901—Legendary Jazz trumpeter Louis “Satchmo” Armtralian Record Industry Association awards in Sydney, Australia. Arnhem Land to sell over strong is born in New Orleans, La. Abandoned by his desper(AP Photo/Rob Griffith, File) half a million copies of his ately poor parents, he was for a while albums across the world, THOMAS HEARNS a ward of the state. But by 1922, he ing in his native language death was “preventable,” singing in his native Yolthan in English, Yunupinwhich made it more crush- followed the migration of Blacks to the North and ended ngu language,” the stateup in Chicago where his Jazz skills really began to develop. gu avoided media intering. ment said. Armstrong was frequently criticized for trying too hard to views and lived most of “I feel he was trapped His debut album “Gurplease his White audiences. Song stylist Billie Holliday once his life on remote Elcho in the same cycle of bad rumul” released in 2008 Island. health that so many indig- said of him, “Sure Satchmo toms but he toms from the heart.” hit triple platinum in Nevertheless, he would later become a major financial backer He first picked up a guienous people are trapped Australia, silver in Britain of Dr. Martin Luther King and the Civil Rights Movement. In tar as a 6-year-old, learnin,” Williams told Austraand topped charts in other addition in 1957, he backed out of a State Department sponing to play it upside down lian Broadcasting Corp. countries. sored tour of the then Soviet Union declaring, “The way they because he was left handAborigines are the most He released another two are treating my people in the South, the government can go ed. He suffered years of ill disadvantaged ethnic top-five studio albums to hell!” Armstrong would die on July 6, 1971. health, having contracted group in Australia. They —“Rrakala” and “The 1931—Pioneering physician Hepatitis B as a child, die younger than other Gospel Album” — and perLOUIS ARMSTRONG Dr. Daniel Hale Williams dies. which left him with liver Australians and suffer formed around the world The Pennsylvania born Williams was a principle founder of and kidney disease. higher incarceration and for audiences including Chicago’s Provident Hospital and helped train many of the In 2012, he had to cancel jobless rates. former President Barack nation’s early Black doctors and nurses. But he is probably a number of European perSkinnyfish managing diObama and Queen Elizabest known for performing America’s first successful open formances due to illness, rector Mark Grose declined beth II. heart surgery. His patient—a young Black man named including performing at the to detail Yunupingu’s Prime Minister Malcolm James Cornish—would live for another 20 years after the health problems, which he Turnbull tweeted that Yun- London Olympic Games. surgery. Friend Vaughan Wildescribed as “quite comupingu was “a remarkable 1964—The bodies of three civil rights workers are liams took Yunupingu to plex.” Australian sharing Yolngu found on a farm near Philadelphia, Miss. The three (one the hospital last week “His health issues are language with the world Black and two Whites) were participating in “Freedom over concerns he may not issues that have come from through music.” Summer”—when thousands of people journeyed south to have been receiving renal childhood illness,” Grose Turnbull’s predecessor, treatment more than 500 told reporters. “His early Tony Abbott, tweeted: “A DR. DANIEL HALE WILLIAMS participate in the Civil Rights Movement and help Blacks register to vote. James Chaney, Andrew Goodman and kilometers (320 miles) childhood is really what’s hauntingly beautiful voice Michael Schwerner were kidnapped on June 21 and killed the same night. Eighteen away at Elcho Island. marked him out for passis now still.” White men, including several law enforcement officers were indicted for the killings Williams said he felt the ing away early.” More comfortable speakbut only seven were convicted. One of the ringleaders, a local minister named Edgar Allen Killen, would not be found guilty until June 21, 2005 after the case had been re-opened. Ironically, Killen was found guilty of manslaughter 41 years to the day that the three civil rights workers were killed. The murders of Chaney, Goodman and Schwerner helped galvanize support for the Civil Rights Movement by turning much of the nation against the terrorist-type tactics being employed by those opposed to it. Ironically, Philadelphia, Miss., elected its first Black mayor in May 2009. August 5 1865—President Andrew Johnson reverses an order giving land abandoned or confiscated from slave-owning Whites to former Black slaves. The order—Special Field Order #15—had been issued in January by conquering Union Major General William T. Sherman as he and his troops marched through CHANEY, GOODMAN, SCHWERNER the South. More than 40,000 ex-slaves had received over 400,000 acres of land in South Carolina, Georgia and Florida. But after Lincoln was assassinated, Johnson reversed the order and returned the land to the Whites. Johnson, a Southerner, did much to reverse the policies of Lincoln and stifle progress for Blacks. Indeed, an argument can be made that President Johnson had a more negative post-Civil War impact on Black progress than any president in American history. August 6 1870—In one of the most brazenly racist incidents of the post-Civil War period, White conservatives and racists employ assassinations and widespread violence to suppress the Black vote and take control of the Tennessee legislative from a coalition of Blacks and progressive Whites. The violence and the election effectively ended Reconstruction in the state. 1941—Blacks started being inducted into the U.S. military around April of 1941 and one result was a series of violent incidents between Black soldiers and White soldiers and between Black soldiers and White civilians. The first major incident takes place on this day in August of 1941. A group of Black soldiers board a bus in Fayetteville, N.C., headed to Ft. Bragg. The White driver complains they are being “rowdy” and asks for help from Military Police (MPs). The MPs arrive and began hitting the Blacks with nightsticks. One of the Blacks grabs an MP’s gun and begins shooting. Additional fighting and shooting break out. When the dust settled, one Black private and one White MP were dead and two Whites and three Blacks had been wounded. THE 1965—President Lyndon Johnson signs the VotNEW PITTSBURGH ing Rights Act which was designed to guarantee the COURIER right of African-Americans to vote. The Act ended a wide range of discriminatory voting practices in the South PUBLISHING COMPANY including literacy tests. The Act was probably the most Publication No.: USPS 381940 significant piece of civil rights legislation ever passed. It was renewed for another 25 years in July of 2006. It was 315 East Carson Street weakened a bit by a 2009 U.S. Supreme Court decision Pittsburgh, PA 15219 but remains in effect. August 7 Phone: 412-481-8302 1970—Four people, including the presiding judge, Fax: 412-481-1360 are killed during a courthouse shootout in Marin County, Calif. A group of Blacks The led by 17-year-old Jonathan Jackson New Pittsburgh Courier stage an assault on the courthouse in a bid to free Jackson’s brother— is published weekly famed Soledad Brother and militant activist George Jackson. Jonathan periodicals was among those who died. Professor paid at Pittsburgh, Pa. and communist Angela Davis was PRICE $1.00 charged with providing the guns for the bloody escape attempt but she (Payable in advance) would later be found not guilty. August 8 6 Months.....$25 1865—Explorer Matthew Henson is born in Baltimore, Md. Henson 1 Year....$45 MATTHEW HENSON would become the first person to 2 Years...$85 reach the North Pole on April 6, 1909. However, it was his boss Robert E. Perry who 9 Month School Rate $35 would receive widespread public recognition and a prescitation for the honor. But in later years, records POSTMASTER: Send idential would show that Henson actually beat Perry to the top address changes to: of the world. Henson would comment that when Perry discovered that he had beat him to the North Pole, he New Pittsburgh Courier became “hopping mad.” Years would pass before Henson would gain some recognition for his accomplishment. 315 East Carson Street Nevertheless, to this day, most history books still continPittsburgh, PA 15219 ue to give the honor to Perry.
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NAACP moves forward with Missouri travel advisory JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP)—The NAACP is moving forward with a travel advisory warning people to be careful while in Missouri because of a danger that civil rights won’t be respected. Missouri NAACP Pres-
ident Rod Chapel said Thursday that national delegates voted the day before to adopt the advisory, which was put in place at a statewide level in June. Chapel said it’s up for ratification by the national board in October.
It cites legislation signed by Gov. Eric Greitens that will make it more difficult to sue for housing or employment discrimination. The advisory also cites other issues, including a recent attorney general’s
report that shows Black Missouri drivers last year were 75 percent more likely to be stopped than Whites. Chapel says he hopes recognition from the national organization will boost awareness.
ROD CHAPEL
Wilmington, N.C. students help preserve copies of newspaper by Ben Steelman Associated Press Writer
WILMINGTON, N.C. (AP)—Two Wilmington writers, working with students from two area middle schools, spent a semester preserving a lost part of the Port City’s past. In January, John Jeremiah Sullivan and Joel Finsel, with support from the creative writing department at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, started working with students from Williston Middle School and the Friends School of Wilmington to find and save copies of the Wilmington Daily Record, a Black-owned newspaper. “Going through the pieces of it was like going through the Dead Sea Scrolls,” Sullivan said. Their project had its climax on July 11 when Sullivan, Finsel, six of the students and two teachers traveled to the N.C. Digital Heritage Center at the Wilson Library at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. There, their work was photographed by high-resolution cameras for archival preservation. The pages will eventually be available through the Library of Congress’ “Chronicling America” digital series, and through the Digital Heritage Center’s public website, www.digitalnc.org. Launched by brothers Alex and Frank Manly in the 1890s, the Record angered White supremacists for its forthright editorials during the racially charged 1898 election. On Nov. 10, 1898, as part of the so-called “Wilmington race riot,” the Record’s offices were burned and its printing press destroyed by a White mob. The Manlys, warned of trouble, had escaped town the night before. Copies and clippings of the Record are very rare, said Sullivan, an essayist and winner of the Windham-Campbell Literature Prize and the Whiting Award.
ALEX MANLY “It was kind of erased from the historical record,” he said. Finsel noted several items in the Wilmington Morning Star, which supported the White supremacist movement, in which editor W.H. Bernard offered 25 cents for any copies of the Record turned into its office. Nevertheless, the writers and 12 eighth graders from the two schools — meeting weekly at the Cape Fear Museum — were able to locate seven copies. Historian Jan Davidson of the Cape Fear Museum found three copies in the museum’s collection, donated in the 1970s by Alex Manly’s son Milo. Students, with adult help, were able to locate four other copies online. An eighth copy, recovered from a local church cornerstone, proved to be unreadable, Sullivan said. Then, the students went to work.
“Each of them got a page (of the newspaper) to transcribe,” Sullivan said. “They learned they had to preserve even the mistakes.” During weekly sessions, the students also took field trips to Wilmington neighborhoods and African-American churches for background and context. Wilmington photographer Harry Taylor demonstrated how turn-of-the-century cameras and photo developing worked. The project was part of a new approach to local history curriculum, placing greater emphasis on heroic local figures such as Alex Manly, said Williston instructor Laura Butler, who was one of the supervising faculty. “The students got so excited,” said Leyna Varnum, another Williston teacher. “They kept going off on different research topics.” The Record, never more than four pages
long, proved to be a lively read, Sullivan said. The newspaper printed railroad schedules, children’s stories and puzzles and items about weddings and funerals as well as editorials and exhortations for readers to vote. It seemed to have plenty of advertising, from White businesses and well as Black-owned ones. The pages provide incredible detail about Black life in Wilmington in the 1800s, Sullivan said. One ad, for example, promoted the Front Street meat market run by Ari Bryant, an African-American butcher, manager of a local baseball team and Republican party activist. Bryant was among the individuals expelled from Wilmington during the riot because he was “looked upon by the negroes (sic) as a high and mighty leader,” according to a White newspaper account of the period. Some of the advertisements were just amusing, like a cartoon for Grove’s Tasteless Chill Tonic, promising that it “Makes Children Fat as Pigs.” Sullivan, the Southern editor of the Paris Review, is the author of “Blood Horses” and an anthology of magazine pieces, “Pulphead.” Finsel, who writes frequently on food, drink and art, is author of “Cocktails and Conversations from the Astral Plane.” The project is still looking for any more copies of the Record that might turn up, Sullivan said. Anyone who finds one is urged to email dailyrecordproject@gmail. com.
Information from: The StarNews, http:// starnewsonline.com
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44 of 60 homicides Black lives…10 of 12 July victims were African American HOMICIDES FROM A1
was in jail at the time, was charged with the shooting that had left Jackson in a permanent vegetative state. JULY 9—Mia White, a 30-year-old Black female, was killed when the car she sat in on Liverpool Street in Pittsburgh’s Manchester neighborhood was riddled with at least 10 shots. A 27-year-old female she was sitting with was wounded in the leg. Police have not yet identified a suspect. The investigation continues. JULY 16—Robert Harper Jr., a 28-year-old Black male, died from multiple gunshot wounds in the hallway of an apartment building in the 1700 block of Belleau Street in Fineview’s Allegheny Dwellings public housing complex. Police have not identified a suspect. The investigation is ongoing. JULY 16—Monte Whitley, a 30-year-old Black male, was found lying between two houses on Lombard Street in the Hill District. He had been shot multiple times. Police have not identified a suspect. The investigation is ongoing. JULY 16—Samantha Klavora, a 23-year-old White female, was killed while sitting on the steps in the 1000 block of Fifth Avenue in McKeesport, when Daniel “Boog” Bizelle, 25, accused
the 38-year-old male she was sitting with of killing a friend a month earlier. Witnesses said he fired at the man as he ran up the steps, wounding him, then turned to Klavora, who was screaming, and said, “Shut up,” before shooting her six times. As of this writing, Bizzelle is still at large. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to call 412-473-1300. JULY 18—Jaymerie Washington, an 18-yearold Black male, and Terrell Wright, a 41-year-old Black male, were both fatally shot in broad daylight outside an apartment building in the 6200 block of Auburn Street in Larimer. Pittsburgh police are investigating to see if the shootings were related to drug arrests made in the are the night before. No suspects have yet been identified. JULY 23—John Roberts, a 21-year-old White male, was fatally shot in the chest as he and his friend Jakeub Nace, also 21, played with a gun in the basement of another friend’s home on Lougean Avenue in Lincoln Place. Though police said the shooting was accidental, after consulting with the district attorney’s office Nace was charged with homicide. JULY 27—Robert Minor, a 41-year-old Black
male, died due to complications from a gunshot wound to the back he received in 1995. At the time, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported that Minor, then 19, and then 23-year-old Grady Thomas, were both shot in Westgate Village in the city’s Fairywood neighborhood. Thomas was wounded in the leg. Police had no motive or suspects at the time. The current status of the investigation is unclear. JULY 29—Stephon Jeffrey, a 22–year-old Black male, was found Fatally shot between two buildings in the Uansa Village housing complex in McKees Rocks. Witnesses told Allegheny County police they saw a Black male running from the scene toward Sproul Street immediately after the shooting. The investigation is ongoing. June Homicides (6 ) JUNE 2—Dedric Ellis, a 48-year-old Black male, was found in his wrecked S V, which had ipped over on cClure Avenue. He had been shot multiple times. Five days later, Pittsburgh Police arrested elvin Russaw of Perry South for the crime. He remains in the Allegheny County Jail awaiting trial on homicide charges. JUNE 2—Makebia Morgan, a 34-year-old Black female, was found stabbed to death in the basement of a home on Francis Court in the Hill District. Quincy Fuqua, 31, was arrested at the scene. He remains in the Allegheny County ail pending trial. JUNE 4–Shayne Abrams, a 23-yearold Blac male, was found shot in his vehicle after it had crashed into a house
in the 1500 bloc of anhattan Street in anchester. Police have not yet named a suspect. The investigation continues. JUNE 19–Diaz Petty, a 24-year-old Blac male, was found fatally shot on the sidewal in the 900 bloc of ysle Boulevard in c eesport. County homicide detective have not yet identified a suspect. The investigation continues. JUNE 23–Donald Taymer, a 17 year old Blac male, was fatally shot at the intersection of Paulson Avenue and Dean Street in incoln emington. After a standoff a few hours later at a nearby house which police said was related to the shooting four individuals were ta en into custody along with a cache of drugs. However, charges have yet to be filed in Taymer s death. JUNE 24–Kelly Gunn, a 24-year-old Black male from Penn Hills, was found fatally shot at the intersection of aple and Hunter streets in il insburg. Police said witnesses described the shots coming from a silver sedan, possibly a Chevrolet Impala, which ed the scene. The investigation is ongoing. May Homicides (10) MAY 1—Bhim Rai, a 26-year-old Asian, was found stabbed to death in his Carric apartment. His live in girlfriend, 23 year old rmila urung, was arrested and charged with the homicide later that day. She awaits trial in the Allegheny County Jail. MAY 3—Juwan Jordan, an 1 year old Blac male, was found by police at the intersection of Allendale and Adon Streets in Sheraden with a fatal bullet wound to the head. Another shooting earlier that night left bullet holes in cars, and a do en shell casings littering the street. Pittsburgh police did not say if they believe there is a connection. The investigation is ongoing. MAY 6—Anthony Nicassio, a 9 year old hite male, was stabbed to death by his 27 year old Daughter in his Plum home. According to police, icassio and his wife had been trying to convince their distraught daughter to go to Forbes Regional Hospital, when she grabbed a itchen nife and stabbed him. She was arrested at the scene. MAY 15—Angela Ceccarelli, and 0 year old hite female, was found in her cCandless Township home fatally shot in the head along with her 3 year old husband Julius, who died from a self in icted gunshot to the head. The deaths have been ruled a murder suicide. MAY 18—Robert Ford III, a 34-yearold Blac male, was discovered by police in a bedroom of an ast Hills home with a fatal gunshot wound to the chest. The investigation is ongoing. MAY 18—Vallen Davies-Mack, a 17 year old Blac male, was found fatally shot in a public par playground in Swissvale some five hours after neighbors reported hearing multiple gunshots around 2 a.m. Allegheny County Police have not yet identified a suspect. The investigation is ongoing. MAY 21—Dahrique Smith, a 25 year old Blac male, was found on a South Side sidewal after a passer by told police of shots inside the Rowdy Buc saloon on ast Carson Street. He was transported to P C ercy where he dies about 40 minutes later. Pittsburgh police have released video from inside the bar of people they would li e identified. It can be viewed here: http: apps. pittsburghpa.gov dps Rowdy Buc . mp4. Anyone with information can call anonymously at 412 323 7 00. MAY 22—Richard Williams, a 35 year old hite male, was fatally shot in his car on elly Street in Homewood during an apparent drug deal. Police have charged 2 year old avasha Johnson with homicide and tampering with evidence, and are searching for a male suspect, seen on surveillance footage, bailing out of the car immediately after the shooting apparently holding a gun. MAY 23—Kala Thomas, a 25 year old Blac female and single mother of two sets of twins, was found dumped over a hillside in arfield after being shot in the head. Police have not yet identified a suspect. The investigation is ongoing. MAY 28—Antonio Wallace, a 31 year old Blac male, was found by police in the 1 00 bloc of esley Street in c eesport having suffered multiple fatal gun shots to the torso. Police have not et identified a suspect. The investigation is ongoing. April Homicides (4) APRIL 6—Elijah Paris, a 21 year old Blac male was shot multiple times in the 200 bloc of Shady Avenue in Pittsburgh s Shadyside neighborhood. Police have not said why Paris, originally from ashington state and living in Beechview, was in Shadyside. o arrests have been made. The investigation is ongoing. APRIL 20—Raffel Green, a 49 year old Blac male, was found by police with a fatal gunshot wound to the nec , in a car outside building number 39 in the Crawford Village public housing community in c eesport. Police say neither reen, nor his companion, Jessica Taylor, who was also illed, lived in the comple . o arrest has been made. The investigation is ongoing. APRIL 20—Jessica Taylor, a
32 year old hite female, was found by police with a fatal gunshot wound to the head in a car outside building number 39 in the Crawford Village public housing community in c eesport. Police say neither Taylor, nor her companion, Raffel reen, who was also illed, lived in the comple . o arrest has been made. The investigation is ongoing. i ia C affin, a 14 year old Blac male, was illed by a gunshot wound to the chest inside a home on Ridge Avenue in c eesport after police said a 19 year old he showed it to tried to get him to put it down, then tried to ta e it from him. Chaffin had reportedly brought the gun to the house. Allegheny County Police said they have identified everyone involved and given all the information to the District Attorney s office. o charges have been filed. March Homicides (7) MARCH 6—Bhim Rai, a 26-yearold Asian male, was found by police dead in his apartment on Brownsville Avenue in Carric after they received a call of a stabbing during a bar fight. Police have not named a suspect. The investigation continues. MARCH 7—Anthony Bailey, a 27 year old Blac male from Penn Hills was found dead in a Pitcairn apartment from gunshot wounds received in what county police said was an apparent robbery. itnesses said they saw two Blac males one with a distinct limp eeing the area. o arrests have been made. The investigation is ongoing. MARCH 7—Sarah Villarreal, a 34 year old hite female, was fatally shot by Daniel Connelly, a 43 year old hite ale who then shot himself, in an apartment they shared in the 100 bloc of atson Drive in Turtle Cree . Police have called it a murder suicide. Villarreal s 4 year old daughter was in the home at the time but was unharmed. MARCH 12—Christopher Dancy, a 46-year-old Black male from Ambridge, was illed after 47 year old Joseph oldsmith, also Blac , came to his former girlfriend s home and shot both her and Dancy twice before shooting himself in the head. The 37 year old female, who police did not identify, survived her in uries. Her 9 year old son, who hid in the basement, was unharmed. MARCH 18—Michael Leonard, a 33 year old Blac male, was fatally shot while sitting in his car with his girlfriend in the 1000 bloc of Blac adore Street after an earlier argument with a man inside the ew Brotherhood otorcycle Club in Homewood. He had apparently been followed from the club, but police have not named a suspect. The investigation is ongoing. MARCH 19—Sean Lyons, a 20 year old Blac male, was fatally shot in the nec and chest following an argument, again, inside the ew Brotherhood otorcycle Club at the intersection of elly Street and Brushton Avenue in Homewood. Despite a bar full of patrons, police have no suspects. The investigation is ongoing. MARCH 28—Deven Holloway, a 1 year old Blac male, was fatally shot multiple times outside inton iddle School in Penn Hills. A 22 year old male from Plum, who claimed he shot Holloway in self defense, was questioned and released by police. His name will only be released if he is charged. The investigation is ongoing. February Homicides (9) FEB. 1—Andrew McGee, a 2 year old hite male, was found fatally shot in a home in Versailles. John Robert Sethman, 29, was arrested in Ohio within hours and e tradited to face homicide charges. He is now in the Allegheny County Jail. FEB. 6—Robert Detorre III, an 1 year old hite male, and Anthony Hoots, a 19 year old Blac male, were illed in a shootout at an apartment comple on Smo eywood Drive, in Swissvale, that also sent two others to local hospitals. Charges have not yet been filed. The investigation continues. FEB. 8–Savon Martin, a 23-year-old Blac male, was found on the porch of a house on Inglenoo Place, in Homewood, by police responding to a ShotSpotter alert. He had suffered multiple gunshot wounds to his head torso and e tremities and was pronounced dead at the scene. Police have released no information on possible suspects. The investigation continues. FEB. 17—Ronald Peless, a 51 year old hite male, was discovered bound in a blan et with an electrical cord in the basement of his c ees Roc s apartment building after relatives had as ed police to do a welfare chec . He had been stabbed multiple times. Three people Jeffrey Tyniac, 51, Sheila agner, 45, and Robert Davies, 0, have been charged in connection with the illing. FEB. 19–Derrick Brown, a 1 year old Blac male from Arnold, estmoreland County, was found by police in the courtyard of the orthview Heights public housing community on Pittsburgh s orth Side. He had been fatally shot in the head. o arrests have been made. The investigation continues. FEB. 21–Jihad Cromer, a 17 year old Blac male, was shot in the head in the bedroom of a residence on Robb Avenue in c ees Roc s. il-
liam Huston, 19, of the est nd, has been charged in the case. He is now in the Allegheny County Jail. FEB. 24–Ramadhan Mohamed, a 31 year old Blac male, died at P C Presbyterian Hospital from in uries sustained in a beating and robbery three days earlier which included blows to his head from a hammer. ohamed, a Somali immigrant cab driver was found about 5 a.m., Feb. 21, facedown and unresponsive on Clima Street in Pittsburgh s Belthoover neighborhood. Police said ing dwards and Hosea oore, both 20, from Belt hoover, called the cab with the intent of robbing the driver. Christen lenn, 1 , and Daniel Russell, 19, who had ed the area, were both arrested on Feb. 2 in oungstown, Ohio. All four are in the Allegheny County Jail. FEB. 25—Dominick Brown-Hill, a 26-year-old Black male, who had been missing since 2012, was identified from s eletal remains discovered in a small, wooded area behind the 900 bloc of ashington Street in c eesport. He died from a gunshot wound to the head. Police have yet to name a suspect in the shooting. FEB. 26—Raghib Dolphin, a 24 year old Blac male from Pittsburgh s Fineview neighborhood was found fatally shot outside angaroos bar on Brighton Road. According to police, Dolphin and two others were denied entry because it was after last call. After returning to their car, Dolphin got out to tal to someone he new. Shots were fired and he returned to the car with multiple wounds to his chest and abdomen. They drove him to Allegheny eneral Hospital, when he later died. o arrests have been made. The investigation continues. January Homicides (9) JAN. 3—Gregory McLeod, a 2 year old Blac male and father of three, became Allegheny County s first homicide victim of 2017 when he was shot multiple times near the intersection of Fran stown Avenue and euman ay, in Homewood, ust after 5 a.m. o arrests have been made. The investigation continues. Anyone with information is urged to call Pittsburgh s Violent Crime nit at 412 323 7 00. JAN. 4—Chaz Robinson, a 35 year old Blac male, was fatally shot near the intersection of asalle and Broadway Avenues in Dormont after allegedly stealing a bag of mari uana and running off during a drug deal. He was found in his bac yard on spy Street the ne t morning. Timothy Bevan, 23, of ount Oliver, has been charged with the shooting. JAN. 11—Jesi Jefferson, a 21 year old Blac male, was discovered fatally shot by arbage men on their morning rounds in the 1300 Bloc of Hilty Alley in c eesport. Allegheny County t. Andrew Schurman said he believes the victim was shot the night before. Anyone with information is as ed to call county homicide at 412 473 1300. JAN. 14–India Stewart, a 29 year old Blac female, of Pitcairn, was found dead by police in a garage near ew ay and aple Alley in Braddoc . She had been shot in the nec , according to the Allegheny County edical aminer s Office. Her uncle, 4 year old alvin Stewart, is charged with homicide, abuse of a corpse, tampering with evidence and arson in relation to the illing. JAN. 14—Ahmad Foreman, an 1 year old Blac male, was found by police lying along the street in the 500 bloc of Fannel Street in arfield. He had been shot multiple times. Police have not released information about a suspect. The investigation continues. Anyone with information is as ed to call Pittsburgh s Violent Crime nit at 412 323 7 00. JAN. 22–Christopher Tompkins, a 57 year old Blac male, was fatally shot by police responding to a home invasion call. hen they arrived, Thompins was coming down the stairs firing in their direction. They fired bac , illing him. Police suspect he was actually firing to scare off Juan Brian Jeter Clar who had allegedly bro en in before the officers arrived. Jeter Cler has been charged with criminal trespass. JAN. 25–Alfred Diggs, a 21 year old Blac male, died of multiple gunshot wounds at Allegheny eneral after being transported by paramedics from the shooting scene in Pittsburgh s estwood neighborhood. Police have not yet identified a suspect. Anyone with information is as ed to call Pittsburgh s Violent Crime nit at 412 323 7 00. JAN. 25—John Miller, a 40 year old hite male from Fran lin County, was found on a set of city steps in the 1000 bloc of Vinial Street in Spring arden. He had been shot multiple times. Police are reviewing surveillance footage but have not named a suspect. Anyone with information is as ed to call city homicide at 412 323 71 1 JAN. 27–Kyle Stauber, an 1 year old hite male, was fatally shot following a home invasion robbery in Avalon. Stauber reportedly chased one attac er off with a baseball bat before one of the robbers shot him. County police have charged John Pignanelli, 25, reg Schol e and ayla aper, both 19, in the case.
METRO
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
AUGUST 2-8, 2017
A5
Remembering Pittsburgh NAACP president Constance Parker
NAACP PRESIDENTS—In this 2015 photo, from left: former NAACP President Tim Stevens, Cheryl Hall-Russell, president, Hill House Association; Connie Parker, president, NAACP Pittsburgh Branch; 2015 NAACP HUMAN RIGHTS DINNER—Pittsburgh NAACP president Connie Parker, pictured with Cornell William Brooks, National NAACP president; and Caryn and Sam Covelli of Covelli Enterprises, Judges Livingstone Johnson and Justin Johnson, and K. Chase Patterson. (Photo by Rossano Stewart) owners of Panera Bread. (Photo by Rossano P. Stewart) PARKER FROM A1
has me on a mission.” That five-year mission included fighting to have the state board of education rescind its decision to make passing the Keystone Exam a requirement for high school graduation, challenging the Rivers Casino to diversify its leadership, hiring and supply chains, and calling on Allegheny County District Attorney Stephen A. Zappala to criminally charge the officers involved in the beating of student Jordan Miles and the shooting of motorist Leon Ford. She was also adamant about connecting with younger people and getting them involved. Brandi Fisher, executive director of the Alliance for Police Accountability, was among those with whom she made that connection, eventually serving on Parker’s executive committee. “One thing about Ms. Constance Parker is she was willing to work with young
leaders to try and get more young people involved,” she said. “Connie was proactive about violence and about education.” She was also a staunch advocate of voting, and was not averse to chastising the membership for low turnout in branch elections, or the community in general for not doing more to elect Black leaders who could address the racial disparities in employment, housing and education. “The NAACP is the biggest and baddest civil rights organization in the world, but if people in positions are not doing their part, nothing will be done and no changes will be made,” she told the New Pittsburgh Courier in a 2015 interview. “That is why voting should be taken more seriously. It all comes down to if the president, senators, and other elected officials, or any person in leadership positions are doing their jobs and being accountable for what they
said they would offer. And if not, we don’t need them taking up a seat.” That commitment to voting was also exemplified by her support of the Black Political Empowerment Project. Tim Stevens, the organization’s founder and former NAACP Pittsburgh branch president, said
Parker was a fighter who was always in his corner from B-PEP’s earliest days. He said she personally saw to it that he received the Homer S. Brown award at the NAACP Human Rights Dinner celebrating the branch’s 100th anniversary. And she kept fighting, Stevens said. “Even though she fought really hard to come back the last few years, it was obvious she was having difficulty. But her spirit was strong—she admonished us to keep our commitment to civil rights, and to keep up the fight,” he said. “I went to see her in the hospital about two months ago and we had the most wonderful visit. I was glad we had that time, it was a special, quality visit.” “Special” was also a word Mayor Bill Peduto used describing Parker, whom he said he was proud to call a friend for 30 years. CONNIE PARKER, speaking at a “She was never afraid to peace rally held by Leon Ford, in speak her mind and lend 2014. (Photo by J.L. Martello) her voice to those that did
not have one,” he said. “You never had to guess what Connie was thinking—she fought for justice and she was never afraid to tell you the truth. Constance Parker was instrumental in the civil rights movement in Pittsburgh for decades and will be dearly missed.” Her daughter, Twanda Carlisle, a one-time Pittsburgh councilwoman who has been serving as the branch’s secretary since 2012, will miss her most. She said her mother was not only devoted to the branch and the community, but also her staunchest supporter, always there for her in good times and bad. “I lost my best friend,” she said. Parker’s fearlessness and devotion also resonated with New Pittsburgh Courier Editor and Publisher Rod Doss. “She was out there. She was on the front lines. She was visible, accessible, and always willing to answer questions or comment on
issues affecting African Americans,” he said. “And she revitalized that branch, getting young people involved, reinvigorating the annual dinner. She did a great job.” As Parker told the Courier in 2015, that was what she was supposed to do. It was God’s charge. “Through the eyes of God, we all look the same. I may be the president of the NAACP, but at the end of the day I’m just another woman walking through that door,” Parker said. “I’m the same Connie Parker with or without the position of president, and I intend on using this blessing God has blessed me with to continue to spread change.” In addition to her daughter, Parker is survived by a son, Curtis, two grandchildren, and brothers William Downing and James Downing Jr., both of California. Parker’s Wednesday, Aug. 2 homegoing service was held at Petra International Ministries, 235 Eastgate Dr.
A6
HEALTH
AUGUST 2-8, 2017
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Take charge of your health today. Be informed. Be involved. E-Cigarettes
This month, the “Take Charge of Your Health Today” page focuses on electronic-cigarette research and usage. Jennifer Jones, MPH, community engagement senior coordinator at the University of Pittsburgh Clinical and Translational Science Institute, and Esther L. Bush, president and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh, discussed this topic. EB: Good afternoon, Jennifer. Can you believe August marks six years that we have been publishing these pages in the Courier? It has gone so fast, and I am truly grateful for this partnership. I know that a lot of important health and research information has gone to the thousands of readers, encouraging them to “Take Charge” of their health. JJ: It truly has gone so fast! I counted, as we have published 57 unique pages on over 50 health topics. EB: Truly a pleasure to be involved. I’ve been looking forward to learning and talking more about e-cigarettes. Is it just me or does it seem like more people are using these products? JJ: I’ve noticed it, too, Esther. Reports from the Office of the Surgeon eneral
is important at a county level as well. Dr. Karen Hacker and her team at the Allegheny County Health Department worked with city government to pass a regulation that show that e-cigarette usage has greatly in“prohibits the use of e-cigarettes and vapcreased over the last five years. ore high ing products in indoor public places where school students smoke e-cigarettes than cigarettes are already prohibited” earlier in regular cigarettes, and usage is higher in 2017. The Urban League has also collabthat population than in adults (https://e-cigaorated with Tobacco Free Allegheny (TFA; rettes.surgeongeneral.gov/). Electronic nicwww.tobaccofreeallegheny.org/ otine products are seen as a “trendy” and ecigarettes.asp), which does great work in “cool” way to smoke, especially because our community and has a wealth of resourcmany of these products use avored liquids es, including education, prevention and that taste and smell better than traditional smoking cessation information. ESTHER BUSH tobacco smoke. JJ: Yes, TFA is a great resource. The EB: That’s really important to know, Clean Indoor Air Act that was passed ant to remember that these products may especially as the Urban League has many shows the commitment health officials contain nicotine and other chemicals. We programs geared toward adolescents. I’ve actually don’t always know what ingredients in Allegheny County have to this cause heard chatter that people switch to these are in e-cigarettes. Nicotine is addictive and to create a healthier environment for all because they are safer. of us. I encourage everyone reading this can cause changes in the brain. There’s JJ: The challenging part is that clinicians research showing that e-cigarette usage or commentary to use the resources that are and researchers do not yet know what long- “vaping” can lead to traditional cigarette use on this page and share them with a friend term effects these products have on our or family member who may smoke. Next and addiction. And research has already bodies. It takes many years of research to month, we’re focusing on addiction. I look proven that traditional cigarette use is build solid evidence to determine whether forward to talking more then. Any questions harmful to people’s health. something is harmful to our bodies. As the EB: I’m glad this page is a way to highlight or comments about this page can be sent overview points out, it’s still very importwhat researchers are working on. This topic to partners@hs.pitt.edu.
‘Vaping’ What are E-Cigarettes and why is their use being regulated is a public health concern
In March, Allegheny County joined 15 states and 660 other localities across the country in restricting e-cigarette use in public places via two ordinances. One prohibits e-cigarette use in indoor public places where smoking is already prohibited. The other limits e-cigarette use by food service employees during work hours. E-cigarette use (sometimes referred to as “vaping”) is a public health concern for three major reasons. These reasons threaten to slow 50 years of progress in reducing smoking rates. First, e-cigarette chemicals themselves are harmful to users. Second, secondhand vapors often contain nicotine, in addition to other harmful
chemicals. These vapors expose bystanders to nicotine, one of the most addictive substances on the planet. Third, the indoor use of e-cigarettes makes it seem normal again to smoke inside. While e-cigarette emissions may be less harmful than secondhand smoke, there is no scientific evi dence that they are safe. E-cigarette “clouds” are not water vapor. This “vapor” is the aerosolized byproduct of heated propylene glycol, glycerin, any number of avoring chemicals and, often, nicotine. The nicotine used in vape liquids is derived from tobacco. It contains some of the same carcinogens and toxicants as traditional cigarettes. Regardless of whether e-cigarettes look like traditional cigarettes, using these products mimics the act of smoking. Seeing e-cigarette use may trigger smoking cravings in others. A growing body of research has shown that teens who vape are more likely to smoke cigarettes in the future. Please join the Allegheny County Health Department in helping to prevent teens, and people of all ages, from unnecessary exposure to addictive tobacco products and in trying to provide clean indoor air for the more than 75 percent of adults in Allegheny County who do not smoke. For more information, please visit www.achd.net/chrond/ smoking/ecig.html.
Earlier this year, Allegheny County Council voted to ban the use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) in local restaurants, stores, schools, sports stadiums and public buildings (the same places tobacco use is banned). But what are e-cigarettes exactly? And why is their use being regulated? E-cigarettes use a small heating coil to convert a liquid containing nicotine, avorings and propylene glycol into an aerosol mist that is inhaled. Together with e-pens, e-pipes, e-hookah and e-cigars, these devices are known collectively as electronic nicotine delivery systems. Because e-cigarettes are not fully regulated by the government, their ingredients are not always known. But according to the Office of the U.S. Surgeon General, aerosol from e-cigarettes is known to contain harmful compounds like nicotine, benzene, lead, tar, formaldehyde, ultrafine particles, and diacetyl, a avoring chemical linked to serious lung disease. When heated, chemicals like diacetyl can break down and turn into toxic compounds like formaldehyde, which is known to be a carcinogen (something that causes cancer). A common perception of e-cigarettes is that they are less harmful than traditional cigarettes. More research needs to be done to determine whether this is true. Regardless, some tobacco users use them as a way to wean themselves off of traditional cigarettes. But like traditional cigarettes, research shows that the nicotine in e-cigarettes is also addictive. It can cause changes in the smokers’ brains, especially in young
Tyler Benjamin blows smoke from his advanced personal vaporizer e-cigarette at Aqueous Vapor in Columbia, Mo. (Nick Schnelle/The Columbia Daily Tribune via Associated Press) people, that make them more likely to become addicted. Long-term nicotine exposure also increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart rate and blood pressure. Studies show that even e-cigarettes labeled as nicotine-free leave traces of nicotine in users’ blood samples. People who choose not to use e-cigarettes can still be exposed to the dangers of secondhand aerosol. Secondhand exposure to e-cigarettes has many of the same effects as secondhand smoke. In 2016, a U.S. Surgeon General’s report concluded that e-cigarette aerosol is not harmless and contains chemicals known to be carcinogens. The liquid in e-cigarettes
has become a household hazard. E-liquid can be candy or fruit avored and packaged in a way that is appealing to young children. Cases of nicotine poisoning in young children have skyrocketed. The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that the accidental ingestion of e-liquid rose by 1,500 percent from 2013 to 2016. Even small doses can be deadly, according to the American Association of Poison Control Centers. For a child, a deadly dose is 10 mg, which is about two teaspoons of e-liquid. Another concern about e-cigarettes is how their use has increased among young people. The U.S. Surgeon General reports that between 2011 and
2015, e-cigarette use among high school students increased by 900 percent, with more teens now using e-cigarettes than cigarettes. This is a problem because nicotine is known to impair brain development in young people. E-cigarettes can be easier for adolescents to purchase and are often advertised to young people in more attractive ways than traditional cigarettes. “E-cigarettes are not subject to many laws that regulate traditional cigarettes, such as age limits on sales, taxation and labeling requirements,” said Brian A. Primack, MD, PhD, dean, University Honors College; Bernice L. and Morton S. Lerner Professor; professor of medicine and of pediat-
rics, School of Medicine; and director, Center for Research on Media, Technology, and Health. “They also come in youth-oriented avorings that laws have limited in traditional cigarettes, such as apple, bubble gum and chocolate candy cane.” Dr. Primack’s research has shown that e-cigarettes may lead to smoking traditional cigarettes among young people. For example, he found that nonsmokers who started using e-cigarettes were nearly four times as likely to start smoking traditional cigarettes within one year. Researchers plan further study into the long-term health effects of e-cigarette use.
E-cigarettes are touted as a safe alternative to tobacco, but research has been incon- E-cigarettes are seen on display at a Vape store in Chicago. (AP Photo/File) clusive. (Christophe Ena/AP Photo/File)
Pitt researchers examine link between ‘vaping’ and social media
by Kar-Hai Chu, PhD
Researchers don’t yet know the extent of harm that e-cigarettes can cause. They do know that e-cigarettes contain nicotine, a very addictive drug. So why do so many teenagers and young adults have positive views about them? At the University of Pittsburgh’s Center for Research on Media, Technology, and Health, we are interested in how e-cigarettes are seen on social media sites like Facebook and Twitter. Our team’s research shows that
people who post online messages or pictures of e-cigarettes usually are discussing them in a positive way. For example, someone on Twitter might post about how delicious certain e cigarette avors are. That message then gets shared with all of his or her friends. Facebook and Instagram users post pictures or videos of people doing cool tricks with e-cigarettes— like blowing smoke rings—or showing off new custom devices. When friends and followers see these positive images, it makes them
believe that e-cigarettes are cool, harmless and fun to try. Major tobacco companies that own many of these e-cigarette brands are also using these social media sites to advertise their products. New Food and Drug Administration regulations are starting to limit how e-cigarettes can be advertised. Social media is still unregulated. Even if manufacturers were limited as to how and where they advertise, nothing stops people from sharing messages and pictures of “cool” vapor tricks
or talking about how great some avors taste. People should be cautious of social media portraying e-cigarettes to be fun and normal. No matter how “cool” it looks, consumers should learn about the health risks and dangers of e-cigarette use that are not discussed on Facebook or Twitter. Kar-Hai Chu, PhD, is assistant professor of medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Center for Research on Media, Technology, and Health
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
OPAL
AUGUST 2-8, 2017
A7
Black seniors test reminiscing to guard against Alzheimer’s by Lauran Neergaard
before its time. University of Wisconsin-Madison Associated Press Writer researchers tested cognitive functions that decline with Sharon Steen dons her tenage in still healthy volunnis shoes and, with two fellow teers in their 50s and 60s. seniors, walks streets that Each particularly traumatic in her youth were a vibrant event over a lifetime added center of Portland, Oregon’s the equivalent of 1? years of African American community. age-related decline—even Wasn’t this the corner where more, four years, for African an NAACP march began in Americans, who experienced 1963? Look, the record store disproportionately more is now a fancy high-rise. stressors. It’s more than a stroll down The National Institute on memory lane. Steen enrolled Aging recently awarded $39 in a small but unique study million in new grants to betto see if jogging memories ter explore racial disparities where they were made can in Alzheimer’s, and one fohelp older African Americans cus is on social and cultural stay mentally sharp and slow factors, including stress. early memory loss. “There’s so much for us to “What we find when we learn in terms of how culwalk, all of us, is that there tural factors link to behavare a lot of things we haven’t ior, how upstream factors had to remember, and that we like residential segregation can’t remember. And then as could shape culture” that in we walk and talk, the memoturn influences biological ries pop up and it’s reassurchanges, said Dr. Carl Hill, ing that they’re still there,” who directs NIA’s Office of Steen said. Special Populations. It’s part of a new and growHe is closely watching the ing effort to unravel troubling Portland SHARP study to disparities: Why do Black sesee if through a culture of niors appear twice as likely as storytelling, Croff has found Whites—and Hispanics 1-1/2 a way to engage a hard-totimes—to develop Alzheimer’s study community. and other dementias? Croff deliberately chose A crucial first step is motivating more underrepresented WALKING TO REMEMBER—In this photo taken July 6, from left, Ron Young, Gahlena Easterly and Sharon Steen reminisce as they “culturally celebratory” take a mile-long walk through North Portland, Ore. streets that once were full of Black-owned homes and businesses. (AP Photos/ historical photos. During populations to volunteer for Gillian Flaccus) one recent walk, the seniors research. African Americans were thrilled to recognize make up less than 5 percent the way, “memory markers”—signs or Maria Carrillo, chief science officer at the some faces in a photo of a 1961 debuof participants in studies of cognitive historic photos—prompt “do you remem- Alzheimer’s Association, which is funding tante ball. In photos of that 1963 NAACP decline and dementia, according to the ber” conversations about people, events the SHARP study. march, participants have recognized Alzheimer’s Association. or long-gone landmarks, conversations Croff ’s theory: “There’s something difpastors and switched the conversation to Beyond possibly improving their recorded both for the study and for an ferent that happens as you walk through the vitality of church life. own brain health, the Portland study’s oral archive. the space and talk about memories.” Croff, an anthropologist by training, enticement is a chance to help preserve Walking is healthy, and being social inIt’s not clear why African Americans said some participants see the study as community and cultural memories from face extra risk of dementia. Higher rates social activism. historically Black neighborhoods that are creasingly is thought critical for seniors’ brain health. Adding reminiscence is of chronic health conditions such as high “There is something very powerful disappearing with gentrification. novel, although some previous research blood pressure and diabetes, known to be about saying, ’I’m still here, I’m still part “A lot of our wisdom and stories about found simply looking through old family toxic to the brain, don’t fully explain the of this community, and you’re going to what community means comes from our photos sometimes sparks memories in disparity. see me.” elders,” said Raina Croff, an assistant dementia patients. Some of the SHARP Studies presented at the Alzheimer’s The walks can spark some melancholy, neurology professor at Oregon Health & Association International Conference last too, said Edna White, 70, who participatScience University. She leads the SHARP study participants, like Steen, are cognitively normal for their age; others have week show a growing interest in the role ed in a pilot SHARP study and signed up study—it stands for Sharing History early memory problems or what’s called of social and environmental influences, again. through Active Reminiscence and Phomild cognitive impairment. Tests of brain from living in disadvantaged neighbor“There was just so much hustle-bustle to-Imagery. function before and after the six-month hoods to socioeconomic disparities in and activity and bright lights, and now Three times a week, 21 seniors gather program will show if it makes a differearly childhood. there are just old buildings. All those in groups of three and reminisce during ence. One particularly striking study sugplaces are gone,” she said. “Except for in mile-long walks through streets once It’s an innovative way to test what’s gests highly stressful experiences—the our memory, it’s like it never happened.” filled with Black-owned homes and busi(Associated Press writer Gillian Flaccus in Portessentially exercising memory “when death of a child, abuse or severe illness, nesses, areas that in the last 20 years you still have a lot of brain left,” said being fired or divorced—can age the brain land, Oregon, contributed to this story.) have become majority White. Along
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RELIGION
AUGUST 2-8, 2017
Praise & Worship ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CATHOLIC CHURCH Crawford & Centre Ave. Pgh., PA 15219 412-281-3141
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Trinity AME Church shines during summer concert, fundraiser
Mass Sunday 9:00 A.M. & 11:00 A.M. Sunday (Gospel Choir Mass) 11:00 A.M. www.stbtmchurch.org
METROPOLITAN BAPTIST CHURCH
AUGUST 5—Metropolitan Baptist Church, 22 Sampsonia Way, is holding the 36th pastoral anniversary for Rev. Lacy F. Richardson and First Lady Regina Richardson, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Church. The theme is, “Preaching in the Shadow of the Almighty Isaiah 40:31.” For more information, call 412-231-2554.
AUGUST 5—The Miracle Ministries/Beaver Valley College of Theology announces its annual Open House and Registration, from noon to 3 p.m. at the Miracle School of Ministry, 702 Davis St., Aliquippa. Classes begin on September 7 from 7 to 9 p.m. For more information, contact Dr. Corelia Armstead at 724-378-3224.
Church School.................................9:30 A.M. Worship Service.................8:00 & 10:45 A.M. Bible Study/ Prayer Wednesday...................6:30/7:30 P.M. www.metropolitanbaptistchurch.com metropolitanbaptist2224@gmail.com
East Liberty Presbyterian Church
ST. JAMES AME FLEA MARKET
Rev. Dr. Randy Bush, Senior Pastor 412-441-3800 116 S. Highland Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206
www.cathedralofhope.com
PASTOR DERYCK TINES and the Lemington Gospel Chorale of Pittsburgh brought the house down at Trinity AME Church’s fundraiser in the Hill District, July 8. (Photos by J.L. Martello)
REVEREND MAUREEN CROSS BOLDEN
New Destiny CME Church
AUGUST 5—St. James AME Church, 444 Lincoln Ave., will hold the “New to You Part 2 Flea Market,” from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Church. Choose from an array of items that will be on display for sale. For more information, call 412-592-2336.
HOMEWOOD AME ZION DAY
AUGUST 5—The Homewood AME Zion Church Annual Community Day will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Church, 724 N. Homewood Ave. This is a free event, with refreshments, music, face painting, games, health awareness and prizes. For more information, call 412-613-6188.
1018 Bidwell St. Pittsburgh, PA 15233 412-231-7882 Rev. Kornelus Neal, pastor The Rt. Rev. Marvin Thomas Sr., presiding bishop
TRINITY AME EASTERN MEETING
Sunday School....................................9 A.M. Morning Worship Service............11:00 A.M.
AUGUST 10-12—Trinity AME Zion Church, 3105 Allendale St., will host the Christian Education Department Eastern Regional Meeting, at the Church. The theme of the meeting is “Connecting to our Purpose” (Romans 12:1-2). Host Pastor is Rev. Joseph D. Lewis I, conference director is Rev. Dina Martin, host Bishop is Bishop W. Darin Moore, Washington DC. For more information, call 412-331-5255.
Curious about Quakerism? You Are Welcome at our Meetings for Worship Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Pittsburgh Friends Meeting 4836 Ellsworth Avenue 412-683-2669
SECOND BAPTIST VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
Join our growing Praise and Worship Church Community!
LEMINGTON GOSPEL CHORALE OF PITTSBURGH
AUGUST 7-11—Second Baptist Church, 108 W. 12th Ave, Homestead, invites all children ages 5 to 18 to attend Vacation Bible School, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This year’s program is entitled, “Glow for Jesus” with the theme, “Let your light shine.” Plenty of crafts, games, music/mime, Bible lessons to inspire everyone to excel in everything they do. To register, call 412-414-6276.
ST. JAMES PENN HILLS BIBLE CAMP
AUGUST 21-25—Christian Life Skills Inc. is partnering with St. James Church in Penn Hills for the St. James Bible Camp, at the Church, 11524 Frankstown Rd. The camp is open to ages 4-18. The camp runs each day from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Learn music, drama, sports, games, Bible study, and Christian dance and step. For more information, call 412-889-4065.
For rate information, call 412481-8302, ext. 128.
The Courier
TELL US ABOUT YOUR NEXT CHURCH EVENT! We want to place your event in our Church Circuit weekly calendar! Send info to: New Pittsburgh Courier 315 E. Carson St. Pittsburgh PA 15219 Or Email us! religion@ newpittsburgh courier.com
METROPOLITAN BAPTIST PASTORAL ANNIVERSARY
MIRACLE MINISTRIES OPEN HOUSE
22 Sampsonia Street, Northside Pittsburgh, PA 15212 412-231-2554 FAX 412-231-6395 Rev. Lacy F. Richardson, Ph.D., Pastor
Summer Worship.........10 a.m.
Church Circuit
TIM STEVENS
is The Voice
HAZEL JACKSON
LUTHER SEWELL JR.
of Black Pittsburgh
LIFESTYLES New Pittsburgh Courier
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AUGUST 2-8, 2017
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
Debbie Norrell
Lifestyles Report The ‘Mooch’ When you think about someone who earns the title of White House Director of Communications, I would expect them to be someone who is a great communicator and someone who has been in the communications business for a long time. I would not have expected Anthony Scaramucci, a.k.a. “The Mooch,” to hold such a position. Each day I can’t believe the things I am seeing and hearing that comes out of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. The choice to make him a White House Director of Communications was trash. To be clear, this is not an attack on White men, because last month when I wrote about Omarosa I was accused by a reader of attacking Black women. Let me be perfectly clear that attack was not on Black women—it was for Omarosa and no one else. Come to think of it, why couldn’t she have stepped in to the role given to “The Mooch?” She doesn’t seem to be doing much of anything, anyway. Who is this man, Anthony Scaramucci? He acts, looks and talks like a gangster. Who is this man? Reportedly he is an investor and it was disclosed in his financial documents that he claims were leaked that he has been an investor in a movie, “Crazy for the Boys.” His financial form lists a value of $250,001 to $500,000 in the movie, and so far, no income. The investment pales in comparison to his holdings in hedge fund SkyBridge Capital, which he founded. He went to Tufts University and Harvard Law School. He is married and lives in Manhasset on Long Island. Reportedly he is worth over $200 billion. He was a TV personality on Fox with his own show called “Wall Street Week.” Scaramucci wasn’t always a Trump supporter and was previously aligned with notable Democrats like the Obamas and the Clintons. Now he’s known for being one of Trump’s biggest campaign fundraisers. The Mooch says Trump helped him realize what he was missing. “It took a billionaire who lives in a tower on Fifth Avenue next to the Tiffany’s jewelry store to show me something that I missed from my own neighborhood,” he said. Can you believe they actually chose this guy for such a high-ranking position? Neither could I. That’s why I was ecstatic when I found out right before I turned in this column that “The Mooch” had been fired as White House Communications Director. Good riddance. All that filthy language he was using, he had no experience, and that goes to show you can’t put inexperienced people in certain positions. Did you really think that Scaramuccci could assist in writing a speech? Historically, the position of White House Communications Director is given to a senior public relations staff member of the candidate’s campaign staff. Often this is either the Deputy Campaign Manager or the campaign Communications Director. Trump thinks this is a reality show. He must realize that this is government, this is serious stuff, and you can’t just pull people in because of who they are on the outside. Now, it’s back to the drawing board. Pray everyone. Pray. (Email Debbie at debbienorrell@aol.com)
SUPPORTERS—Adrian Smith, Shalanna Broadus, Wilma DeLaney, Vernette Singletary and Alecia Gibbs. (Photos by Debbie Norrell)
MOTHER AND SONS—John Brice, Karen Faison and Francis Behanna Jr.
Survivors Gala by Debbie Norrell Lifestyles Editor
SUPPORTERS—Rene Stewart and Judy Long
Karen Faison was inspired to host a survivors event by a friend who was diagnosed with cancer and had given up. She was inspired to the point that she hosted a Breast Cancer Survivors Gala on June 10 at the Teamsters Local 249 on Butler Street. Faison coordinated this event without major sponsors and used her own funds to host her first Breast Cancer Survivors Gala. With the help of supportive volunteers, volunteer coordinator Barbara Mosely and FRIEND AND SURVIVOR—Peggy Lewis and Sharon Myers loving sons John Brice and Francis Behanna Jr. Faison celebrated life and honored those who have kicked cancer in the backside. “Some have put up a great fight against it and we are honoring them,” she said. The friend who inspired the gala did not attend but the evening went on just the same with door prizes, surprises and a great meal. Roger Humphries provided the music and the RH Factor and DJ Sly Jock was on hand as well. The survivors included: Shirlee Lucas, Sharon Myers, Gloria Kirkland and yours truly, Debbie Norrell.
SUPPORTERS—Rowinea Wooten and Mary Etta Johnson
SUPPORTERS—Shawnee Lake, Jack and Eileen Joyce
SURVIVOR AND FRIEND—Shirlee Lucas and Elaine Jenkins
SUPPORTERS—Gloria Kirkland, Laverne Witt, Barbara Wilks-Carney and Darnise Wilks
THOSE WHO HELPED MAKE THE EVENT A SUCCESS
ENTERTAINER New Pittsburgh Courier
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AUGUST 2-8, 2017
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
Cover To Cover
‘This is How We Do It’
‘Dance Africa’ dazzles again
by Terri Schlichenmeyer For New Pittsburgh Courier
This morning, you woke up to a big day. Like most days, you’ll eat breakfast and get ready to leave the house. Every hour is then packed with fun and excitement before you go to sleep in a comfortable bed tonight. Do kids like you live like that in other countries? In “This is How We Do It” by Matt Lamothe, you’ll see. Meet Romeo from Italy. He’s 8 years old and lives with his parents and siblings in a house with a vineyard out back. There, he has rock-throwing contests with his friends after school. Romeo loves to eat lasagna for dinner, he likes working on model cars with his father, and he goes to DANCE AFRICA—The Legacy Arts project presented “Dance Africa,” a three-day event (July 21-23) celebrating the dance and drumming of the African tradition, at Kelly-Strayhorn Theater. (Photos by Gail Manker) bed covered with a warm down blanket. Meet Daphine, whose nickname is “Abwooli.” Daphine is 7 years old and lives in Uganda “in a house made of wood and mud.” At private school, she wears a
‘Detroit’ proves that things haven’t changed by Merecedes J. Howze For New Pittsburgh Courier
The untold story of the 1967 Detroit riots seems all too familiar to me. And it’s really simple; some White law enforcement officers abused their authority to assassinate unarmed Black men. Even 50 years later, video footage and indictments are not enough to
Merecedes on…
Movies
red T-shirt and green shorts, just like every other student there. Because her school is very far from home, Daphine lives with her grandmother during the week; even so, she walks a half-hour to get to class. Meet Ananya, who is called “Anu.” Eight years old, Anu lives in India and helps her mother after school by hanging laundry outside on a line to dry. Dinnertime for her family is at nine o’clock; afterward, Anu likes to play with her sister before bedtime; then, the entire family sleeps together in one huge bed. Meet Kian, who is 7 years old. Living in Iran in an apartment near the Caspian Sea, Kian wears a uniform to his all-boys school, where he studies Farsi and the Quran. One of the things Kian likes to do after school is to go horseback riding, and he enjoys helping take care of his baby brother. He also loves to watch cartoons on TV before going to sleep beneath his favorite blanket. Now meet you. What is your life like? Based on seven real families living in countries around the world, “This is How We Do It” is a nice introduction to other cultures and a “typical day” that the worlds’ children might experience. “The world is a huge place…” says author Lamothe, and though he indicates that his book doesn’t necessarily represent how each culture is, as a whole, it’s still a great way to show your child similarities and differences. Simply-hued pictures allow young readers to see where and how other kids live, what their teachers are like, and what can traditionally be found at the table—and though some of those things may be markedly dissimilar to what your child is used to, variations are noted matter-of-factly. The book ends on a note that ties up its whole meaning nicely. (“This is How We Do It” by Matt Lamothe, c.2017, Chronicle Books, $17.99, 52 pages.)
bring these offenders to justice. Statements like, “I feared for my life” are enough evidence to constitute taking someone else’s. And after all of the protests and social media hashtags have disappeared, only the lucky, grieving loved ones receive a civil settlement as an unhandsome reward. This is a vicious cycle that has become too common. “Detroit,” starring John Boyega, Will Poulter, Jacob Latimore, and Algee Smith, provides a commercialized account of what happened on a summer July 1967 night. Things turned deadly after officers, including the Detroit Police, National Guard, and Michigan State Police, responded to a possible sniper at a motel. The cast is phenomenal. So many talented individuals, who, even in smaller roles, had a huge impact on the film. Sixteen recognizable Black actors were a part of this project, such as Anthony Mackie, Jason Mitchell, Samira Wiley, and Gbenga Akinnagbe. “Detroit” is great, but the film has marginal room for improvement. For example, one of the original members of the singing group, The Dramatics, is a main character and a victim in the incident. As a result, there are more musical performances than I would have ever imagined. The random singing is exorbitant. One or two selections is acceptable, but “Detroit” turns into a lightweight musical. The music hinders the seriousness of the plot. “Detroit” is a turbulent reminder that things have not changed. The movie also serves as a conversational piece to figure out how do we employ better police officers, provide adequate training, and establish a trustful relationship between law enforcement agencies and its citizens. I am bothered by the fact that realities like this one are popular and unapologetic. In the same breath, I commend filmmakers for making a movie that creates a dialogue, and may provoke change. The film opens up nationwide on Aug. 4.
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
PEOPLE
AUGUST 2-8, 2017
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6th Annual ‘Dance Africa’ – It’s in the A.I.R.
The Legacy Arts project presented “Dance Africa,” a three-day event (July 21-23) celebrating the dance and drumming of the African tradition, at Kelly-Strayhorn Theater. This year’s theme was, “It’s in the A.I.R.,” meaning “Art is Revolution.” Courier photographer Gail Manker captured the three-day event in pictures.
For coverage of your next event, contact Rob at 412-481-8302, ext. 135!
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AUGUST 2-8, 2017
METRO
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
‘Pipeline to Purpose’ program steers youth in positive direction HAMMONDS FROM A1
“a lot of our kids were becoming followers because they had no knowledge of self, so we would use African American films to teach about our culture and our history at the Penn Hills Cinema,” he said. The other program, Strides of Confidence, helped kids, veterans and others in need with tangible items. Both programs are now being run by the American Legion, Hammonds II said. He wanted Hammonds Initiative, of which the Pipeline to Purpose program is a subsidiary, to focus exclusively on violence intervention, prevention and mentorship. “That’s what’s plaguing our community the most,” Hammonds II said. “I want the kids to know that they have a purpose, and it’s up to them to make sure they LEONARD HAMMONDS II, pictured here with students from his Pipeline to Purpose program. Included are Dezmere Perry, Rhyheim continue on that path to Sutton, Leontae Brown, Edward Daniels, Robert Hamilton, Jordan Thomas, Tyvon Johnson, Damien Chavis, and Jalen Thomas. (Photos fulfill their purpose. The by John Ford) worst thing a man can do is die with untapped poten-
tial.” Hammonds II thanked Penn Hills YMCA executive director Thomas Wallace for allowing the weekly meetings at the center, free of charge. Hammonds II said the Thursday 6 p.m. meetings are open to any youth, and his goal is to hold sessions four days per week. Registrations from a parent or guardian can be made at www.hammondsinitiative.org, or by calling 412-452-7385. “He teaches us to be aware of your surroundings, and decision-making, stuff that you do that can harm your future,” said program participant Edward Daniels, 15. “Since we’re young, some adults don’t understand the stuff we go through, whether it’s sports, females, anything.” But Hammonds II understands. “He’s been there and so he knows how it is,” Daniels, a Penn Hills high school student, said. “It’s not as hard explaining it to him.”
LEONARD HAMMONDS II
Bill Generett joins Duquesne University as VP Community Engagement GENERETT FROM A1
pinning for true community engagement. That’s important because this work is here to stay, and really, Duquesne’s been doing this since its founding—committing itself to positively impacting the community and the region.” Duquesne University President Ken Gormley said he wants to do even more—and Generett is just the man to help do it. “An essential part of the University’s new strategic plan, that will be finalized soon, is a vision for expanding and enhancing the University’s community engagement efforts,” Gormley said in a July 31 press announcement. “Bill Generett is a highly-recognized civic leader with a distinguished career in community and economic development. His expertise, community connections and passion for improving our region will help to make this vision a reality.” For Generett, who has been Urban Innovation21’s president and CEO since it was founded as the state’s first Keystone Opportunity Zone for economic development in 2007, the move kind of brings him full circle, because, along with the Hill House Economic Development Association and UPMC, Duquesne University was one of the KOZ’s founders. In his new capacity, the university said, Generett
will facilitate and develop relationships with community organizations, local governments, and civic organizations, strengthening the University’s partnerships with its neighbors. He will also work to advance community-engaged research, teaching, and scholarship, in conjunction with the Center for Community-Engaged Teaching and Research, and coordinate and support co-curricular engagement. During Generett’s tenure at Urban Innovation21, he helped fund, foster and support multiple entrepreneurial startups by economically-disadvantaged residents, primarily in the Hill District and Uptown, and launched new entities to spur interest in economic development, such as the Citizen Science Lab, Pittsburgh’s first and only life sciences community laboratory. He also developed a partnership with Reed Smith LLP that has provided $1 million in pro bono legal services to Urban Innovation21’s entrepreneurs. Generett will stay on at Urban Innovation21 through August. His first day at Duquesne will be Sept. 1. “My decision to leave there was tough, but after nine years, it was time,” he said. “I was sad because I thought I’d have to leave, but now I get to stay here and do some of the same work, and more, throughout the region.”
BUSINESS New Pittsburgh Courier
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Knowledge of credit scoring drops over past year by Barrington M. Salmon Blacks appear to need most education For New Pittsburgh Courier
(TriceEdneyWire.com)Sharae Newton (Not her real name), has made many mistakes that damaged her credit score. They include running up debt as a college student—including student loans. But after Newton earned a second Master’s degree and began working with the federal government, she thought she was secure. She now admits that she still has an uncomfortable relationship with money largely because of her lack of credit literacy. Like many middle class African Americans, Newton makes a concerted effort to monitor
her credit score and learn all she can about how to protect it. Yet, Newton, who asked that her identity be kept confidential for the sake of financial privacy, lives with a great deal of uncertainty; especially when something unusual happens that affects her regular financial life. “I’m the only income earner in my household, but I had a series of medical issues that lost me money and cost me money,” said Newton, who owns a home in Northeast Washington, DC but has no significant savings. “I never expected the medical problems I’ve had over the last
five years. I’ve had multiple orthopedic surgeries because of a condition that causes my tendons to tear. I earned my second masters, got out of whatever credit quandary I was in prior, but my medical expenses got me right back into it.” Her most recent surgery was in January and the portion she’s required to pay is $14,000. She said she and some of her friends and associates are caught in the vice of making too much money to get subsidies and other types of help to pay medical bills that the poor or vulnerable receive. “All of the safety nets, I was
not eligible for them,” she said. “You cannot buy something like Aflac unless you have a catastrophic illness like a heart attack or a stroke. Federal jobs provide you a certain privilege but don’t protect you. …I had to start using leave without pay. It does make you feel like what else can you do to feel protected? This destroyed my credit and I face a very uncertain future.” Newton’s dilemma illustrates that there is very little financially that Americans can do that isn’t in some way tied to or SEE KNOWLEDGE B2
MARCIA GRIFFIN
Summer Employment Program Learn and Earn students promote upcoming Harambee Festival by Diane I. Daniels For New Pittsburgh Courier
For three years The Homewood Children’s Village (HCV) has participated in the City of Pittsburgh’s Learn and Earn Summer Employment Program with the purpose to provide work experience to Pittsburgh and Allegheny County young residents. Learn and Earn is a sixweek summer job program for teens and young adults ages 14 to 21. The program provides participants the opportunity to earn money, gain valuable work experience, and to develop soft skills to help them become college- and career-ready. This year the HCV employed approximately 90 youth, according to Grace Oxley, HCV Learn and Earn coordinator. They operated over 17 worksites throughout Homewood and parts of the East End. One worksite employing six students has the responsibilities of conducting the marketing and public relations for the Harambee Black Arts Festival, occurring Aug. 4-6. The 50th Anniversary celebration, carrying the theme “Breathing Life into the Community,” will take place in the heart of Homewood, focused around Kelly and N. Homewood avenues. The entire weekend, which will kick off with a Soul-Stepping parade, will have games
ART IS—Ericka Turner a member of the Oasis Creative Space, is excited that her project is a part of the 50th anniversary of the Harambee Black Arts Festival. (Photo by Diane I. Daniels) for children of all ages, food vendors and well-known local music acts. “The mission of this year’s festival is to eliminate negativity in youth culture and to empower young people to understand their individual and collective beauty,” said George Hogan, Harambee Festival Chairman.
The song, “I can’t get no satisfaction” may have been recorded decades ago first by Otis Redding and later by the Rolling Stones, but its message is still true today. Its lyrics, “I’ve tried, and tried” strike a resonant chord with anyone who ever felt they received less than they deserved. When it comes to today’s range of financial services and products, many consumers don’t have satisfaction. One of the reasons is that consumers are often denied the chance to join forces in court to hold bank and lenders accountable when they seem to have broken the law. Instead, financial contracts frequently contain forced arbitration clauses buried in the fine print. These anti-consumer clauses require that all disputes between consumers and the institution are dealt with in a secretive and often rigged arbitration system. Among the financial products with high use of arbitration clauses are payday loans. An estimated 99 percent of storefront payday loans in California and Texas include arbitration. Here’s how it works: The financial institution hires the arbitration firm, pays its fee, and in turn, almost always rules in the company’s favor 93 percent of the time and leading to repeat business-to-business dealings. And by the way – more often than not, there is no right to appeal. On July 10, a long-awaited rule to remedy this dilemma, was announced by Richard Cordray, Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). A forceful and vocal coalition of civil rights,
“The mission of this year’s festival is to eliminate negativity in youth culture and to empower young people to understand their individual and collective beauty.” GEORGE HOGAN Harambee Festival Chairman
The first activity of the 50th anniversary event kicked off in June during Pittsburgh’s Three Rivers Arts Festival with the season debut of the Oasis Creative Space. Housed in a repurposed 20-foot shipping container, viewers have the opportunity to experience diverse art from upcoming
local artists and are able to hear directly from each artist using technology. The container also features a digital monitor showcasing animation art. “We are excited to be a part of the Harambee Festival,” said Ericka Turner, a member of the Oasis Creative Space. She said the mission of the project is to cultivate a platform for new and up-and-coming artists to promote sales of their art in cool places, while helping people think about art in different ways socially, politically and culturally. During the weekend Oasis Creative Space will be located near CCAC’s Homewood branch. Under the direction of Nedra Williams, Creative Balance 4 Empowering People is hosting health and wellness workshops on Aug. 5 and 6, consisting of growing your own food, African dancing, yoga, Hip-Hop aerobics, spinning, Ballroom Dancing and Line Dancing by Roland Ford. The festival is hosted and organized by the Harambee Ujima Black Arts and Cultural Association, a volunteer committee formed in 2001 to preserve the legacy of the 1967 Harambee Arts Festival that was once considered one of the largest community festivals in the country. The original event sprung out of the Black Arts Movement, which is an SEE LEARN B2
Congressional maneuver seeks to delay consumer financial satisfaction organized labor, coneconomic inequality sumer advocates and Charlene Crowell that is so closely inothers had pushed tertwined with racial for the rule to further injustice in the Unitaddress economic ills ed States, ” said Todd suffered disproporCox, policy director tionately by consumfor the NAACP Leers of color. gal Defense and EdEarlier CFPB reucational Fund, Inc. search found that Last August, the oreven with limits on ganization submitted class actions, concomments supportsumers receive—afing the rule—along ter attorneys’ fees—approximately $440 with 110,000 others. million more per year in these lawsuits “These forced arbitration clauses block than with arbitration. Over the past few consumers who have been wronged from years, 34 million more consumers received joining class action lawsuits or otherwise relief from class action lawsuits. appearing before an impartial court that “Including these clauses in contracts can consider their injuries,” said Vanita allows companies to sidestep the judicial Gupta, President and CEO of The Leadsystem, avoid big refunds, and continue to ership Conference on Civil and Human pursue profitable practices that may vio- Rights. late the law and harm large numbers of “By forcing consumers into secret arbiconsumers,” said Cordray. “Our research tration, corporations have long enjoyed showed that these little-known clauses an advantage in the process, and victims are bad for consumers. They may not be have often been precluded from sharing aware that they have been deceived or their stories with the press or law enforcediscriminated against or even when their ment, Gupta continued. “The CFPB rule contractual rights have been violated.” is simple. It says that consumers have the Civil rights organizations were swift to right to join together to enforce protecspeak up in support. tions guaranteed by the Constitution, or “By leveling the playing field between federal, state, or local law.” corporations and individuals, this rule is Unfortunately, not all reactions were an important step towards addressing the supportive.
Commentary
On July 20, Sen. Mike Crapo, Chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee and Rep. Jeb Hensarling, Chair of the House Committee on Financial Services announced a coordinated legislative attack to roll back CFPB’s arbitration rule. Proceeding under the Congressional Review Act, Congress can fast track a veto of new federal regulation with limited debate and a simple majority vote in each chamber. As of press time, Sen. Crapo’s resolution was supported by over 20 Senate colleagues representing 21 states. For three of these states—Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi—both Senators support the measure. On the House side, Rep. Keith Rothfus sponsored its resolution with the support of 33 colleagues. Only July 25, the House passed its resolution on a highly partisan vote of 231-190. Only one Member of Congress crossed the aisle to vote against his majority party—Rep. Walter Jones of North Carolina. As of press time, the Senate had not yet taken the measure to a vote. Since the 115th Congress began in January, Congress has used the Congressional Review Act a total of 14 times. Each time it was used to overrule regulations by the Obama Administration. Prior to this year, only once in 2001, has Congress taken this approach. For policy advocates, the attempt to undo the lengthy and thoughtful process SEE CONGRESSIONAL B2
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BUSINESS
AUGUST 2-8, 2017
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
Blacks appear to know less than Whites about credit scores KNOWLEDGE FROM B1
influenced by their credit scores. In the financial world, a person’s credit score illustrates their creditworthiness which simply means how likely it is that a person will pay their bills and whether they will pay them on time. A bad credit score means the owner of that score could end up spending thousands of additional dollars in interest or fees if they want to borrow money, rent an apartment, buy a house, rent or buy a car, obtain insurance. So financial experts stress
BARRETT BURNS
BUSINESS CALENDAR Duquesne Export Basics
AUG. 3—The Duquesne University Small Business Center will host Export Basics, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., in 108 Rockwell Hall, 600 Forbes Ave., Uptown. Topics include: Recognizing export opportunities; Shipping & payment; Legal & regulatory aspect of exporting; Sources for information & assistance, and cultural issues. Fee: $49. For more information, call 412-396-6233.
Mon Valley Job Fair
AUG. 4—Mon Valley Initiative and the Southwestern Pennsylvania Re-Entry Coalition will host “Jump Start Your Job Search,” 12 to 2 p.m., at the Allegheny Intermediate nit offices, 475 ast Waterfront Drive, Homestead. Employers scheduled to attend and conduct on-site interviews include Allegheny Health Network, Christian Home Healthcare, Eat’n Park Hospitality Group, LGC Hospitality Staffing, cConway Torley roup, Omni illiam Penn Hotel, PeopleReady, Rice Enterprises LLC, Rivers Casino, Superior Home Care and Wofford-ECE Consulting. For more information contact Camille Smith at 412-464-4000, or email csmith@monvalleyinitiative.com.
Chatham Business Workshop
AUG. 12—The Chatham’s Women Business Center in partnership with SCORE Pittsburgh present a Build Your Business Workshop to entrepreneurs interested in starting or expanding their business. From 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Eastside campus, 5 5 Penn Ave. Business e perts and seasoned entrepreneurs will discuss the following topics: business planning, marketing and sales, financing, legal issues and business lessons learned. A continental breakfast will be provided. Fee $10. For more information, contact Anne Flynn Schlicht at 412 3 5 1153.
Chatham Training Program
AUG. 16—The Chatham’s Women Business Center presents a six-week “Concept to Launch” training course, on six consecutive Wednesdays from until September 13 at the Eastside campus, 5 5 Penn Ave. The program, designed for women in the early stages of starting a business, will focus on: developing a business concept; industry and market research; identifying target customers pricing and mar eting strategies startup financials legal business entities, and pitching the business. Cost 95, with 50 percent, need based scholarships made available by Bridgeway Capital. For more information and to register, call 412 3 5 1153.
Executive Sales Seminar
AUG. 16—Sandler Training will present a free sales development seminar, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., 790 Holiday Drive, Foster Pla a, Building 11. This session for owners, sales managers and sales VPs is designed to reengineer the selling process to capitalize on today’s buying pattern. See how to tackle the issues your sales people face every day. For more information, contact Lindsey Demetris at 412-944-2403 or by Email at lindseydemetris@superiorselling.com.
Hill District residents voice their concerns…
about the proposed expansion of a drug and alcohol residential treatment program in their neighborhood. Listen to Pittsburgh Profiles, when Hill District Community Development Corporation CEO Marimba Milliones explains why they’re against the project. That’s Elaine Effort on the next Pittsburgh Profiles with KQV News Reporter Elaine Effort.
Pittsburgh Profiles heard on
KQV 1410 AM and at WWW.KQV.COM
Friday, August 4 at 7:30 P.M. Saturday, August 5 at 7:00 A.M. Sunday, August 6 at 6:00 P.M.
that it behooves consumers to do all they can to ensure that they keep a positive credit score and hone their knowledge about credit scoring. In that regard, Stephen Brobeck, executive director of the Consumer Federation of America (CFA) and Barrett Burns, CEO of VantageScore Solutions, LLC, spoke to reporters in a recent conference call to discuss the findings of a survey to measure consumer knowledge of credit scores. In the seventh year that the survey has been conducted by the organizations, one of the major findings is that consumer knowledge of credit scores has eroded over the past 12 months. According to the survey, a smaller number of respondents were aware that non-credit service providers used credit scores in determining prices and the services they offer. For cell phone companies the consumer awareness was down from 68 percent to 59 percent, and for electric utilities this awareness was down from 53 percent to 44 percent. “We wish the survey results were more positive,” Burns said. “Consumers should make every payment on time and we urge them to check their credit every 12 months. The greater availability of credit scores and credit reports is certainly a net positive for consumers, however the data demonstrates that we collectively have work to do to help consumers un-
derstand that credit scores are used by more than just lenders.” Brobeck said the findings generally show that consumers have a dire need for greater levels of financial education. “One would think that increasing access to one’s credit scores would help increase knowledge about these scores,” said Brobeck. “But that apparently has not been the case to the detriment of consumers. Low credit scores can cost consumers hundreds, and sometimes thousands, of dollars a year in higher loan and service costs.” On the plus side, the percentage of respondents who said they had obtained at least one credit score in the past year has steadily risen -- from 49 percent in 2014, to 51 percent in 2015, to 54 percent in 2016, to 56 percent in 2017. Barrett and Brobeck said that the surveys, in addition to consumer education, are designed to help consumers understand the varied factors that affect their credit. They stressed that it’s crucial for people to make loan payments on time. Failure to do so can adversely affect one’s credit. It is encouraging, the pair said, that a large majority of consumers correctly identified key factors influencing scores—missed loan payments (91 percent), high credit card balances (86 percent), and personal bankruptcy (85 percent). And also two important ways to raise their credit
STEPHEN BROBECK scores or maintain high scores—making loan payments on time (96 percent) and keeping credit card balances low (80 percent). Little research has been done to determine the racial disparities in credit score knowledge. However, there is strong evidence that, in general, credit scores of Blacks are lower than those of Whites. A study by the Federal Reserve Board in 2008 and an Illinois study by public interest groups in 2014 demonstrated the difference, which no credible source denies. A proximate cause of this credit score difference is that more Blacks than Whites have poor credit reports, the main basis for credit scores. A study by Freddie Mac in 2013 found that 27 percent of Whites but 48 percent of Blacks had poor credit reports. One basic cause of the lower credit scores in the African-American commu-
Learn and Earn students promote Harambee Festival LEARN FROM B1
artistic interpretation, or a sibling of the Black Power Movement. This movement portrays the solidarity of culture and is responsible for world unity centered around giving birth to the ideas of multi-culturalism. Harambee is a Swahili term that means “togetherness,” and Ujima means “collective work and responsibility.” Major funding for this year’s festival comes from the Heinz Endowments and the Pittsburgh Foundation. Homewood organizations involved include the HCV, Operation Better Block, Community Empowerment Association, YWCA, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh’s Homewood Branch, Wine and Words Pittsburgh and the Humane Animal Rescue. Other funders include the City of Pittsburgh,
the Office of Mayor Peduto, Councilman Rev. Ricky Burgees, State Rep. Ed Gainey, Neighborhood Allies and Dollar Bank. To gain their 150 hours of work experience, Learn and Earn students Adasha Carpenter, Ameile Findley, Shakara Fields, Tanasha Embry, Indya Durham and Diamond McCallum created a public relations scheme for the Harambee Festival by writing press releases and public service announcements, appearing on radio shows, writing and recording radio spots, distributing flyers and conducting a social media campaign. HCV said participating in the city’s Learn and Earn program is just one of the ways the organization touches the lives of young people, by providing valuable work experience and other soft skills.
nity is that Blacks appear to know less than Whites about credit scores. In the 2016 CFA/VantageScore survey, for example: •90 percent of Whites, but only 69 percent of Blacks, knew that personal bankruptcy influences one’s credit score. •86 percent of Whites, but only 73 percent of Blacks, knew that 700 was a good credit score. •77 percent of Whites, but only 62 percent of Blacks, knew that the CFPB is the best place to file a complaint related to a credit score. Blacks are aware of this void in their knowledge of credit scoring. In the 2016 CFA/Vantage/Score survey, 54 percent of Whites, but only 40 percent of Blacks, thought that their knowledge of credit scores was good or excellent. To address the need for credit score education in the general community, CFA and VantageScore have created a 12-question credit score quiz to help educate consumers about credit scoring. The quiz can be found at www.creditscorequiz.org. The Center for Financial Advancement, a new collaboration between HomeFree-USA, Wells Fargo, Freddie Mac and Mortgage Bankers Association, will engage students, faculty, parents and the local communities on such topics as credit, student loans, savings, homeownership and opportunities in the mortgage profession. The center aims to improve the economic outlook of African-Americans. “More than half of all African-Americans in our country rent, it’s a fact that a homeowner’s net worth is 36 times that of a renter, and it’s a fact that that the median income for an African American household is $35,000 compared to the national average of $53,000,” says Marcia Griffin, president/ founder of HomeFree-USA, a HUD-approved homeownership development, foreclosure intervention and financial coaching organization. Burns concludes, “Credit scores can have an impact on everything from your loan terms to the size of the deposit required to acquire a mobile phone, so it’s critical that consumers take our quiz and become educated.”
Consumer financial satisfaction delayed CONGRESSIONAL FROM B1
CFPB used in developing its arbitration rule is a step backwards, instead of forward. “These clauses block consumers’ access to the courts and force consumers into an arbitration process rigged in favor of the company,” noted Melissa Stegman, a Senior Policy LEARNING THE TRADE OF MARKETING—Learn and Earn students Ameile Findley, Tanasha Embry and Counsel with the Center for Responsible Lending. Adasha Carpenter preparing for the Harambee Festival. (Photo by Diane I. Daniels) “This also makes it difficult for consumers to challenge widespread, systemic misconduct by companies since it is often too expensive to pursue small-dollar disputes one-by-one in arbitration. “The Wells Fargo scandal highlights the real harm of forced arbitration clauses, as customers who attempted to bring class action lawsuits against the bank over phony accounts were blocked from the court—keeping the growing problem out of the public eye.” Whether it’s a payday loan, or a credit card or maybe even a mobile phone, no consumer who has been financially harmed should be denied the right to seek some satisfaction and financial justice. (Charlene Crowell is the communications deputy director with the Center for Responsible Lending.)
OPINION
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
AUGUST 2-8, 2017
B3
Is President Trump seeking to overthrow America’s government?
Guest Editorial
Physicians convene at a critical time When the National Medical Association (NMA) was established in 1895 the government’s legal doctrine of “separate but equal” dictated virtually every aspect of American society. “Racially exclusive ‘Jim Crow’ laws dominated employment, housing, transportation, recreation, education and medicine. Black Americans were subjected to all of the injustices inherent in a dual medicine care system,” notes the NMA on its website. “Under the backdrop of racial exclusivity, membership in America’s professional organizations, including the American Medical Association (AMA), was restricted to Whites only. The AMA determined medical policy for the country and played an influential role in broadening the expertise of physicians. When a group of Black doctors sought membership into the AMA, they were repeatedly denied admission. Subsequently, the NMA was created for Black doctors and health professionals who found it necessary to establish their own medical societies and hospitals.” Today the NMA is the nation’s oldest and largest organization representing African-American physicians and health professionals in the United States. This weekend the NMA, which represents more than 30,000 members, is convening in Philadelphia for the organization’s annual convention. More than 2,500 Black physicians and health professionals are expected to attend the convention held July 29 through Aug. 2 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. The convention comes at a critical time. When the NMA was founded the most critical issue was how to address the “inadequacies of a segregated health care system.” While segregation is no longer legal, the issue of health care disparity still remains. Access to affordable health care is one of the most critical issues facing Americans. Barack Obama, the nation’s first African-American president, sought to address the problem through his signature health care law in 2010. Obama’s Affordable Care Act expands access to health care and prevents insurers from denying coverage to people with pre-existing conditions. But Republican lawmakers are seeking to dismantle the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. Although imperfect, Obamcare is far better than the Republican lawmakers’ cruel health care plan which limits coverage, slashes Medicaid and creates roadblocks for those with pre-existing conditions. NMA president Richard Williams said the organization has spoken out against efforts to replace and repeal the Affordable Care Act. “We have contacted legislators, including members of the House of Representatives and senators. We have lobbied in the halls of Congress and we have put notices out in media announcing our opposition to those bills that are intended to take health care coverage from at least 22 million people in the United States, including a large number of African Americans,” said Williams. The NMA is convening in Philadelphia at a time when many Americans are worried and fearful over how or if their health care is going to be covered or paid. The views of the NMA will be an important voice to be heard on the future of health care in America. (Reprinted from the Philadelphia Tribune)
Founded 1910
Rod Doss Editor & Publisher Stephan A. Broadus Assistant to the Publisher Allison Palm
Rob Taylor Jr.
Jeff Marion
Office Manager
Managing Editor
Circulation Consultant
John. H. Sengstacke
Editor & Publisher Emeritus (1912-1997)
Could the appointment of another general by President Trump to another key leadership position be a move by him to eventually overthrow the government? I know that sounds crazy, but this man is crazy. Remember, in his eyes no one can make this country great again but him. Not the House, not the Senate, him and only him. Think about it. He said he’s going to drain the swamp. That means he doesn’t trust politicians to lead. He doesn’t trust scholars, who dominated President Obama’s reign, to lead. Nor does he trust everyday working people from the various walks of life, including business, to lead. He likes generals, whom he has already given complete freedom to make all decisions throughout the country, including the Middle East. California Congresswoman Barbara Lee has voiced her concerns about former general John Kelly being selected as the White House Chief of Staff, adding to several other generals in key positions. Lee was the lone Congressperson to vote against giving President Bush, or any president, the powers to declare war without going through Congress first. I wouldn’t put anything past Trump. He’s in love with himself, and he wants all the power. That’s why being a billionaire is not enough. If you study history you will find that all tyrants believed they knew it all and the world would be a better place under their absolute rule. And remember, in many cases the people put them in power, not realizing these people could care less about them. You say, “Not in America!” I say, “Why Not?” The hate in this country is boiling over; if something doesn’t change it’s going to explode. Moving to another subject, can the
Ulish Carter
Just Sayin’ GOP and Dems work together? The Affordable Care Act is still the law of the land. Will the Republicans accept defeat and team up with the Democrats to repair the shortcomings of this law for the benefit of all Americans, or will they continue to play politics with the people being the losers? Because everyday this bill isn’t repaired, the more people will suffer and die. Senator John McCain, facing death and the faith of having to meet his maker, joined Republican Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski to help the Democrats defeat the GOP’s skinny Health Care bill which would have repealed the Affordable Care Act while enacting a health care bill that neither side wanted or knew what was in it. This was too much for McCain, who has worked with both sides of the aisle for laws that helps the American people. It’s obvious that the GOP was and has always been very serious about blocking any attempt at a universal health plan in this country, as they have been since Franklin Roosevelt took over doing the great depression. The Democrats have been trying to get a National Health Plan through since 1943, with the most recent attempts being by President Bill Clinton in the 1990s, led by his wife Hillary during the 1990s, then came President Obama during the past 8 years. Most people say that the Re-
publicans had the past 8 years to come up with a workable affordable healthcare plan but they have actually had 70-plus years since 1943; yet they haven’t come up with anything because of the big money being pumped into their pockets by the health care industry. There’s a lot of money to be made off human suffering and death. Hopefully the Republican House and Senate will not listen to the President and just let the Affordable Care Act die for the lack of federal dollars and support. Hopefully the rank and file of both parties will come together with human lives being their first priority and strengthen this law where it’s needed, and when the 2018 elections come both parties can address the voters with the fact that they worked together for the good of the American people and the results is a strong affordable healthcare plan that saves lives and reduces or eliminates pain and suffering. The Progressives are asking for free health care, the Conservatives are asking for a free market-based health care, while the moderates are asking for a combination of both. I guess I’m a moderate on this issue because if it’s totally free, it will lead to more abuse and more cost. So why not follow the name Affordable Care Act, with insurance companies competing in the free market, with the government still subsidizing the poor to make it affordable for all, and individuals paying a certain percentage out of their pockets? Of course, there must be government regulations. If we can have auto insurance, why not health care insurance? I don’t think there is anyone in America who doesn’t want affordable health care, even Trump’s supporters. (Ulish Carter is the former managing editor of the New Pittsburgh Courier.)
‘Adorable?’ Or was it more like deplorable? by The Field Negro Something happened at a baseball game a couple of nights ago that all of America thought was very cute. A little kid was invited on the playing field to meet some of the players, and the little brat took the opportunity to kick Miami Marlins player, Dee Gordon. His mother swears that her little kid would never do that, but yet, there he was, kicking the baseball player right in the shin. Not cute. I know that he is being called “adorable,” but what the hell is “adorable” about going up to a grown ass man who is trying to be nice to him and kicking him in the shin? And if it was
pre-planned, shame on the Reds for promoting that type of course behavior and getting a five year old kid involved. I guess the days of taking your children to the ball park to bond and eat Cracker Jacks are over. Now it’s just kick the opposing players on the shin. “Little Johnny, what did you and daddy do at the game today? Did you catch any foul balls? Nope, I kicked that bum Dee Gordon right in the shin.” Gordon took it all in stride. It’s not like he had a choice. What was he going to do, scold the kid in front of thousands of Reds fans? Then he would have looked like the jerk, although he was well within his rights
to do just that if he chose to. “Gordon, to his credit, handled it well. He turned away and appeared to be laughing about the whole thing. The ump quickly ushered the kid in another direction. He did look back at Gordon as he walked away. Does that look say “whoops, I hope he’s OK,” or “the next one is going between the legs?” We can’t tell.” Ha ha ha; laughs all around. All while the trumpification of America continues. That kid didn’t go to the baseball game to learn the game and bond with his family. He went to practice his trump rally skills and do his best imitation of the president. Sadly, from where I sit, he did a pretty good job.
Letters To The Editor
Juneteenth: How Pittsburgh still practices inequality Dear Editor: Since 2013, our organization, Stop the Violence Pittsburgh (STVP), has hosted the Juneteenth Festival in Pittsburgh. As you may know, Juneteenth is the celebration of the end of slavery and Black Americans’ emancipation since 1865. Our Festival includes Motivational Speakers, Live bands, a Jubilee Parade, Gospel Groups, a Kids Fun Zone, Vendors, African dance troupes and
National entertainment. We have received Proclamations and Letters of Support from various City, County and State officials. Juneteenth has been held in Market Square without incident, and we are now servicing some 3,000 participants. Because of this growth, for the 2018 Festival we sought to move the event to Point State Park (PSP) and started the process of filing an application with PSP officials. I
later received a email from Lynne Rupp of PSP who informed me that among other things, “We also require a $10,000 refundable security deposit and a certificate of insurance for a $300,000 policy.” I answered Ms. Rupp, asked about the purpose of the refundable fee, told her that we have insurance coverage for our Festival and complained that the fee appeared to be a “deterrent” from hosting events at PSP.
On July 19, Mr. Jacob Weiland, PSP manager, told me via phone that the $10,000 fee was to cover potential “property damage.” I explained to Mr. Weiland that we provide up to $3,000,000 event insurance which also includes “renter’s premise insurance coverage.” Mr. Weiland would not lift the PSP Fee. In America, it has been a practice to create “deterrents or restrictions” to stop African Americans from enjoying the same rights, privileges and advantages as Caucasians. There was a time when Black people were refused public accommodation or access to public space like their White community, Black church, Black politicounter-parts. cians, NAACP, Urban League, B-PEP, Currently the major festicommunity residents, fraternal groups vals hosted by PSP are the and other fighters of justice to stand Three Rivers Arts Festival, up and flex some moral muscles and Three Rivers Regatta and say, “Enough is enough!!” We need to demand some jobs on these construction 4th of July Celebration. While Blacks make up 30 sites. percent of Pittsburgh’s How does this city and the various population, there are no non-African American builders justify minority events held at hiring the Amish, the Hondurans, the PSP. Mexicans, the White men and women In a state with a Demwhile African American men, women and ocratic Governor, County youth are excluded from these construcExecutive and Mayor, we tion jobs? would request that your Perhaps the time has come when we, readers contact Governor African Americans, need to march on Wolf’s Office, 717-787-2500, some construction sites and stop some construction jobs until a sizable number Mayor Peduto’s Office, 412- 255-2626, County of Blacks (not just minorities) benefit. Executive Fitzgerald, For a while the URA is building affordable homes...but who really benefits from 412-350-6500 and PSP manager Jacob Weiland, the jobs? African Americans, Black folks, let’s get 412-565-2850 and request an explanation why African our voices back! Let’s flex some muscles Americans are not allowed and DEMAND justice for African Amerito host events at PSP. cans in this “Most Livable City.” William Marshall Rev. Dr. Johnnie Monroe, HonorCEO of Stop The ably Retired Violence Pittsburgh Pittsburgh
Let’s get our voices back! Dear Editor: Who profits financially and job wise from all of the development that is going on in Pittsburgh? Everywhere I travel throughout the city I see single homes, apartments and new businesses being built. Yet, I see very, very, very few African Americans working on the job sites—not even as flagmen or flag women. That means all the new building going on in the African American communities—Homewood, Lincoln-Larimer, Northside, Hill District are not financially benefitting the people who live in those communities and whose lives are being affected. Many of our people are still unemployed in the midst of all the construction. Throughout my many years of ministry in various urban areas, I witnessed the Black community being pimped by developers and politicians for the big dollars for redevelopment, yet those who are pimped reap none of the benefits. Back in the day that was called “urban renewal” but we knew it as “Negro Removal” and unfortunately that has not changed (not even in the “Most Livable City”); new name, same game. I believe it is time for the Black
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AUGUST 2-8, 2017
FORUM
The conditions of Blacks Black women Up South (Pittsburgh) in 1948 will rise despite Louis ‘Hop’ Kendrick unequal treatment (TriceEdneyWire.com)—Lots of women’s organizations commemorate Equal Pay Day, which this year was April 5. It meant that women, in general, would have had to work all of 2016, and until April 5, to earn the same amount of money that a man earned in 2016. Few will recognize July 31, 2017, which is the day by which African American women will have to work to earn the same money a man earned last year—seven extra months! A Latina woman will work until October, or nearly 10 extra months, to earn the same money a man earned. I wonder about our “women’s coalitions” when majority women’s organizations, like the National Organization for Women, are silent for Black Women’s Equal Pay Day. Does it matter to them? Maybe not. It matters when they want to present a multiracial, multicultural “united front” at a Women’s March, but less so at other times. The lesson, Black women, is a lesson some sisters raised in 1991, when Anita Hill testified in the Clarence Thomas confirmation hearings. People had all kind of explanations for Hill’s testimony, most of them woefully wrong and viewed through a lens, darkly. Led by feminists Elsa Barkley Brown, Deborah King and Barbara Ransby, more than 1500 women raised enough money to pay for an ad in the New York Times on Nov.17, 1991.
Julianne Malveaux
Commentary The ad, titled “African American Women in Defense of Ourselves” (AAWIDO), reminded Black women that no one should speak for us, except us. No one can be relied on to defend us, except us. And no one can be depended on to celebrate us, but us. No one can lead advocacy for our equal pay, but us. I’m not dismissing our allies—“woke” men of color, especially Black men, “woke” White women and other women of color. I’m just saying we can’t count on everybody to be woke. Evidence—was there an equal amount of noise on Black Women’s Equal Pay Day? And in the Reign of Ignorance, there is likely to be even less noise, as the House Appropriations Committee has actually proposed defunding a program that collects salary data from employers. Without the data, we won’t know the extent of pay discrimination. We know plenty now. We know that Black women earn 63 cents for every dollar paid to White men, compared to the 80 cents White women earn. We know that Black women in Louisiana earn the least compared to white men, about 48 cents on the dollar! In comparison, Black women in Missouri, Tennessee, Maryland and Pennsylvania earn 68 cents for every dollar a White man earns. Whatever we earn, it ain’t equal. What we don’t know is how women fare inside some organizations. And you can’t dismantle pay discrimination without having the details of it. Under President Obama, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission established requirements to provide pay transparency. Businesses with more than 100 employees were required to start releasing salary data in March 2018. Of course, those who want to sweep pay discrimination under the rug argued that it would cost too much to collect the data. And now, the Republican Congress says that no resources may be used to collect this very necessary data. It reminds me of the old folks who used to say, “you don’t miss what you can’t measure.” But we can measure the pay inequity, and we can see it in the quality of women’s lives. We might not be able to point a finger at one company or another (Republicans are also likely to make class action lawsuits more challenging), but we have enough aggregate data to know that there is pervasive gender discrimination in the workplace, and that Black women shoulder an extra burden because of the intersection between race and gender. Not only do African American women earn less, but we also catch more shade because of our skin color, because of who we are and what we represent. Former First Lady Michelle Obama has spoken out, though very gently, about the racism she experienced while in office. At a recent gathering in Colorado, she spoke about the many “cuts” she experienced, and told the Denver Post that “The shards that cut me the deepest were the ones that intended to cut,” referring to comments about her looks, and especially those that referred to her as “an ape”. She said she was dismayed in “Knowing that after eight years of working really hard for this country, there are still people who won’t see me for what I am because of my skin color.” When I read Michelle Obama’s comment, I thought about Dr. Maya Angelou and her classic poem, Still I Rise. One stanza reads, “You may shoot me with your words, you may cut me with your eyes, you may kill me with your hatefulness, but still, like air, I’ll rise.” Black women endure unequal pay, disrespectful treatment (consider the treatment of Senator Kamala Harris, or Congresswomen Maxine Waters), police beatings, and more. And yet we are still here. And yet, “when they go low, we go high”. And yet, like air, we rise. (Julianne Malveaux is an economist, author, and founder of Economic Education.)
A number of readers may not remember the overall living conditions of “colored” (not Black yet) people who resided in Pittsburgh in 1948, but those of our generation do. I was a youngster, 16 years of age, and like most of my friends, associates, neighbors, etc., always connected racism, bigotry, and discrimination with the Southern states. It was our belief that prejudice only ran rampant in Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, Louisiana, Tennessee, etc. However, as I began to mature and analyzed our overall living conditions, it became apparent to me that overwhelmingly too many of us had blinders on. As I reflect on 1948, when a local daily newspaper was doing a series of columns about the conditions of colored persons in the South, the column could have been written about…Pittsburgh. I remember my years in the public school system; I never saw a colored teacher, janitor or cafeteria worker. We as a people could not stay at Downtown hotels, were denied access to swimming pools that belonged to the City of Pittsburgh, could not eat at many restaurants across the city… You could count the colored police in the city, county, state or federal government prohibited from driving public transportation and private-owned buses, and only one colored elected Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas Judge. In the lower Hill there were 64 elected city and county committee persons and only one was a colored male. Pittsburgh’s highway
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and sewers division forbid colored workers from driving the vehicles— they could only clean the sewer systems. There were restaurants located on the Hill that would not allow colored customers any service, you had to take your food out. There was discrimination in the steel mills; colored could only work on certain positions, the unions were white as snow, colored could not be clerks or truck drivers for the department stores… I remember as if it were yesterday, reading the columns in the daily paper about Ray Sprigle living in the South for 30 days, and at that time there were three daily newspapers in the city. There was the Sun-Telegraph, Post-Gazette, and Pittsburgh Press, and none of them hired colored truck drivers to deliver newspapers (which were excellent jobs) and definitely would not hire colored reporters. A multitude of the above problems mentioned were not addressed until the 1960s. Now we are no longer colored, we are Black. But when I remind some persons of our history, they get upset and say, “That is history, things have changed, we have come a long way since those years.” My response is, you must take your head out of the sand and understand that “we have a long way to go.” It is greatly disturbing to me that too many of us refuse to understand that positive changes will not occur without some gigantic efforts driving the changes. (Louis “Hop” Kendrick is a contributor to the New Pittsburgh Courier.)
President Trump’s version of ‘The Permanent Campaign’ In 1974, Prespost-election ident Richard J. Pharoah Doss “thank you” ralNixon resigned lies. from the naBut was this tion’s highest ofreally a “thank fice in disgrace. you tour” or a His adminisvictory lap, or tration was the was he testing first to instituhis own “permationalize a “pernent campaign” manent political format? operation” inside the White House. Observers of these “thank you” ralThese operations were clandestine, lies said they were identical to the unethical, and criminal. They were rallies Trump held as a candidate eventually exposed by the Watergate same format, same pledges, and the scandal. same condemnation of those that opNixon’s breach of public trust, by ob- posed his candidacy. structing justice, didn’t just destroy Critics wanted the President-elect Nixon - it damaged the integrity of to stop gloating and transition tothe presidency. ward governing. But President-elect Nonpartisan distrust was a barrier Trump responded by telling his supfor both parties. porters that critics said he shouldn’t Nixon’s successors welcomed public hold rallies as president, but he skepticism and proclaimed it was a thinks he should because he’s done necessary requirement for good gov- everything opposite. ernment. But secretly they felt the Here, opposite means the President need to combat the climate of perma- has literally taken “The Permanent nent distrust. So, White house insid- Campaign” and turned it inside out. ers revamped Nixon’s operations into Instead of manipulating a message what is called “The Permanent Cam- through media outlets, President paign.” Trump has decided to speak directly The phrase was coined by an assis- to his supporters, campaign-style, but tant to President Jimmy Carter, mas- six months into his Presidency what tered by the architects of President is his message or what is he manipBill Clinton’s “war room,” and per- ulating? fected by a special assistant to PresiRecently in Ohio at a Make America dent George W. Bush from the Office Great Again rally, President Trump of Strategic Initiatives. (An office that spoke for an hour. He bragged, “No didn’t exist in previous administra- president has done anywhere near tions.) what we’ve done in the first six According to Scott McClellan, months.” Trump supporters cheered President Bush’s longest-serving and shouted for the president to press secretary, “The Permanent “build that wall” like it was 2016 Campaign” is conducted 365 days a again. One supporter told reporters year, year in and year out, to shape Trump’s biggest accomplishment and manipulate sources of public was, “All the rallies he has. These approval. In that sense, continual people here are like family, and he’s campaigning is the means by which brought that to us.” an administration exerts a lasting But the reality is President Trump impact on the nation. “The Perma- has nothing to brag about after six nent Campaign” uses tools as the months in office and no serious acnews media, political blogs, popu- complishment with a Republican lar web sites, paid advertising, talk congress. President Trump also said at the radio, local organizations, and propaganda disseminated by interest Ohio rally that the press accuses him groups to shape narratives to one’s of not acting presidential. The crowd booed. The President continued, “It’s advantage. Now, then-candidate Donald Trump so easy to act presidential, but that’s was at odds with all of the traditional not going to get it done.” And neither will pep rallies distools his administration would have utilized to conduct a permanent cam- guised as some permanent campaign. (J. Pharoah Doss is a contributor to the New paign like their predecessors. After his victory, President-elect Trump Pittsburgh Courier. He blogs at jpharoahdid something different. He held nine doss@blogspot.com)
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Jesse Jackson Sr.
Commentary
The ‘Voter Fraud’ Commission itself is fraudulent (TriceEdneyWire.com)—There’s a branch in philosophy called epistemology that deals with the theory of knowledge. How do we know what we know? How do we know what is true? What is believable? And what are the criteria we use to tell whether something is true or not? Considering his constant refrain of “fake news,” maybe President Donald Trump should enroll in such a course. Why? Because he’s focusing on issues and creating entities that don’t correspond to real problems. Trump is guilty of not knowing the difference between real problems and fake problems. For example, consumer fraud is real, yet Trump is attempting to gut or eliminate the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. By contrast, voter fraud is virtually nonexistent, according to all credible studies, but he has put together a so-called Presidential Advisory Commission on Election Integrity to find it. How should we judge whether his voter fraud commission is legitimate or not? Using reason is a good way to start. First, consider motive. What’s the purpose of establishing the commission? Trump has argued that our state-based election systems are full of voter fraud. He believes it’s why he lost the popular vote. However, Republican and Democratic secretaries of state, those who oversee the election process, have disputed his claim by affirming their voter registration rolls are sound, elections are fairly run and vote counts are accurate. As a result of his view, many believe the commission was established to “prove” that Trump is right, that he lost the popular vote to Hillary Clinton by nearly 3 million votes because there were up to 5 million illegal votes cast for Clinton. Second, look at actions. The commission’s first act was to send a letter to all 50 secretaries of state, plus the District of Columbia, requesting voter data on every American, including such sensitive personal information as home address, party affiliation, age, voting history, military status, criminal record (if any) and partial Social Security numbers. Most states refused to comply, objecting to sending it over nonsecure connections without the ability to protect it. Others had concerns about centralizing such information, and there was no clearly stated purpose of how the information would be used. Some feared the commission would use “crosscheck,” a system with a history of carelessly matching voters’ names between states and deleting one as a duplicate. The Justice Department also sent a letter demanding to know how states were going to “clean up” their voting lists -- code for deleting voters, a practice used in the past in racially discriminatory ways. Third, look at the commission’s composition, its members’ histories and their orientation with respect to voting rights. Currently there are 10 members, six Republicans and four Democrats. Vice President Mike Pence is the chair and Kansas Secretary of State Kris Kobach is the co-chair. The commission’s members make up a rogues gallery and a dream team of voter suppression. Prior to becoming vice president, Mike Pence was governor of Indiana and used “voter fraud” to support a statewide crackdown on registering African Americans. Pence supported the 2005 Supreme Court decision that found an Indiana voter ID law constitutional. He supports Trump’s false claim that millions voted illegally. Kris Kobach is known as the “King of Voter Suppression,” a reputation he has earned by disenfranchising one in seven Kansans and by spreading his crosscheck system to states nationwide. Another Republican commission member, Ohio’s former Secretary of State Ken Blackwell, shortchanged African-American voting sites of an adequate number of voting machines, resulting in long lines. He also tried to disenfranchise voters by insisting that all voter registration forms be rejected if they were submitted on paper thinner than a postcard. He was the subject of 14 lawsuits regarding election irregularities. Republican commission member Hans von Spakovsky was a Justice Department official in the Civil Rights Division under President George W. Bush and strongly argued against reauthorizing the 1965 Voting Rights Act. Connie Lawson, Indiana’s secretary of state, is proud of having co-written her state’s voter ID law that spread nationwide, even though the law has since suffered federal judicial defeats in Texas and Wisconsin (2011), and in North Carolina and North Dakota (2013). Finally, while the commission’s goals have not been clearly stated, it seems obvious the real purpose of the commission is twofold: to validate Trump’s claim he would have won the popular vote in 2016 if not for illegal voters, and to lay the groundwork for nationalizing voter suppression legislation, making it more difficult for people of color, women, workers, young people, seniors and the disabled—traditional Democratic constituencies—to vote. Conclusion? The fraud commission is fraudulent!
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The il insburg Public ibrary in il insburg, PA is accepting applications for two Adult Assistant Services positions. These are full time, 40 hour per wee , union positions offering 13.4 hr. plus benefits. Wilkinsburg residency is required. A Bachelor’s or other secondary education degree and/or certificate is required. Please go to our website www.wilkinsburgpa.gov for further details regarding this job posting. If interested, please send completed resume, at least 3 professional references, and cover letter to the address or email below. Applications must be submitted by: onday, August 7, 2017 Borough of Wilkinsburg 605 Ross Ave Wilkinsburg, PA 15221 412-244-2940 info@wilkinsburgpa.gov Donn Henderson Borough Manager
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Provides access to library resources selects, acquires, processes and organizes library materials for students. Conducts library orientation for all new student groups new faculty. Works with program directors and faculty to integrate the library system and resources into each course curriculum. Bachelor’s degree (Master’s preferred ) in ibrary Science. 3 years library experience; knowledge of public library operations and of library collections strong S Office s ills and proficiency in using the Internet required. Send Resume with cover letter and salary requirements to hr@manchesterbidwell. org EOE
CYF (CHILDREN, YOUTH, AND FAMILIES) SPECIALIST
FT position in a domestic violence agency; Provides intimate partner violence related consultation, outreach, and training to C F casewor ers and services to C F involved families experiencing intimate partner violence. College degree Act 33, 34 FBI clearances required. cellent benefits salary low 30,000 s annually. Send cover letter and resume to molinaron@wcspittsburgh.org by 10 17.
WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP COUNCIL DEVELOPMENT OFFICER
United Way of Southwestern PA We are searching for a Women’s Leadership Council Developent Officer to recruit, retain and grow the omen s eadership Council ( C) for nited ay of Southwestern PA. The omen s eadership Council is a diverse network of professional women and leaders who stand up and take action to help strengthen women and families in our community. Members connect and collaborate with powerful, li e minded women and inspire meaningful change. The Council capitalizes on the strength of women as philanthropists and volunteers. It offers women the opportunity to step forward and use their heart, head and hands to drive positive change in our community. e act locally, but we are part of a global network of caring women. Our C Development Officer is responsible for conceptualizing and carrying out donor engagement and fundraising strategies to grow C membership and contributions. Bachelor s Degree required and three to five years of ma or gifts fundraising experience. Visit our website at https://uwswpa. org/careers to view job description and apply for this position. Submissions will only be accepted electronically. nited ay of Southwestern PA is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity.
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Pittsburgh Flatbed Openings. cellent Pay, Safety Bonus, reat Benefits ore CD A, 1yr p. Req. stenson ogistics Apply www.goelc.com 844-205-6902 ANNOUNCEMENTS Public Notice
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Estate of NORBERTA Z. JAKIELO, Deceased of Balwin Township, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, o. 02 17 04041 James . Ja ielo, ecutor, 43 ewport Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15234 or Robin . Rarie, squire, BR OV F R, C, 401 ashington Avenue, Bridgeville, PA 15017. Estate of MS. JEAN F. PAYN , Deceased of 252 Shafer Road, oon Township, PA 1510 . state o. 02 17 4052. s. Janet Ba os, 252 shafer Road, oon Township, PA 1510 , ecutri c o a C. Feldman, Attorney At aw, 1322 Fifth Avenue, Coraopolis, PA 1510 . Estate of KUSEN, JOSEPHINE C., Deceased of 20TH ard, City of Pittsburgh. o. 03452, of 2017. Stephen C. usen, 4230 oodwind , Allision Par , PA 15101. or to ichael J. Saldamarco, SQ., Attys, Ste. 100, 90 Perry Hwy., Pittsburgh, PA 15229 Estate of PAULINE K. PIKUNAS, of Pittsburgh, PA date of death July 11, 2017. state o. 02 17 04372 arianne Pi unas Donohue c o Judith A. ehnows y, Atty., 20 vergreen Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15209. 412 21 0441
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THE BOARD OF PUBLIC EDUCATION OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PITTSBURGH
Sealed bids will be received in the Office Of The Chief Operations Officer, Room 251, Administration Building, 341 South Bellefield Avenue until 11:00 A. . prevailing time, TUESDAY, AUGUST 22, 2017 and will be opened at the same hour for the purchase of the following supplies: ROCK SALT & ICE MELT General Information regarding bids may be obtained at the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Service Center, 1305 uriel Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15203. The bid documents are available on the School District s Purchasing web site at: http:// www.pghboe.net/pps/site/default. asp Clic on Bid Opportunities under Quic in s. The Board of Public Education reserves the right to reject any and all bids, or select a single item from any bid. M. Jordan Purchasing Agent We are an equal rights and opportunity school district
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INVITATION TO BIDDERS THE PITTSBURGH WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY ADVERTISEMENT
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) FOR PROJECT BASED VOUCHER PROGRAM & GAP FINANCING FOR MIXED-FINANCE DEVELOPMENTS RFP #600-35-17
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) FOR Consulting Services Needed to Procure and Install a Hosted Telephone System RFP #200-39-17
S PARAT and S A D BIDS for the following solicitation, will be received by the Office of Procurement, Pittsburgh ater and Sewer Authority, 1200 Penn Ave., Second Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, until 2:00 P Prevailing Time August 29, 2017. Bids must be received in the hands of and clocked in by a P SA Procurement Officer in sufficient time prior to the opening in order for a bid to be considered. INVITATIONS FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR 2018 SEWER RECONSTRUCTION CONTRACT PWSA PROJECT NO. 2017-424-111-0 The scope of wor for the 201 Sewer Reconstruction Contract includes reconstruction and relay of PWSA public sewer system including, storm, sanitary, and combined sewer facilities. All bids must be submitted in accordance with the solicitation that can be obtained by sending an e-mail to cjuratovic@pgh2o.com. There will be no charge for the solicitation, as it will be sent via e mail. All questions relating to the solicitation itself shall be directed to Jim Tracey, Contract Specialist, via e mail: jtracey@pgh2o.com, no later than August 22, 2017. Bids must be accompanied by a Bid Bond in the amount of Ten Percent (10 ) of the bid for the pro ect under construction. Said Bond shall be duly and legally executed with a Surety or Trust Company which has complied with City Ordinances Resolutions relating thereto. A Performance Bond and abor and aterial Bond in the amount of 100 of the contract value for each awarded project will be required after award. The Contractor must assure that employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of their race, color, religion, se ual preference, se , or national origin. The bidders will be required to submit the pac age of certifications included with the contract documents relating to qual mployment Opportunity. The Authority reserves the right to withhold the award of the Contract for a period of 0 days after the opening of the bids. The Authority reserves the right to re ect any or all proposals, and to waive any informality or minor irregularity in any bid or bids. The Authority also retains the right to investigate the qualifications of bidders prior to any award and to award contracts only to contractors who, in the sole judgment of the Pittsburgh ater and Sewer Authority, are qualified and equipped to properly e ecute the specified wor . ROBERT WEIMER, INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR THE PITTSBURGH WATER AND SEWER AUTHORITY
REQUEST FOR BIDS AUTO INSURANCE
The estmoreland County Housing Authority ( CHA) is requesting bids for Auto Insurance for its eet of vehicles. Sealed bids will be received by Michael . ashowich, ecutive Director, until Friday, August 25,2017 at 10:00 A. . ( astern Standard Time) at the office of the estmoreland County Housing Authority, 1 7 South reengate Road, reensburg, PA 15 01, at which time they will be opened publicly. Interested respondents can obtain hard copy bid documents from the CHA Administration Office, telephone (724) 32 724 , t. 3057. lectronic Bid Documents are available for downloading at www.wchaonline.com. Inquiries and registration can be emailed to rachelf@wchaonline.com. Perspective Bidders shall register with CHA via email in accordance with the bid requirements.
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The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request proposals from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): Project Based Voucher Program & Gap Financing for MixedFinance Developments RFP #600-35-17 The documents will be available no later than July 24, 2017 and signed, sealed proposals will be accepted until 10:00 A.M., August 31, 2017 at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street, 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Parties or individuals interested may obtain information from: Mr. Kim Detrick – Procurement Director/ Contracting Officer Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 2nd Floor, Suite 200 100 Ross Street Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-456-5116, Option 1 or by visiting the Business Opportunities section of www.hacp.org A pre bid meeting will be held: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 200 Ross Street, 9th Fl. Board Room Pittsburgh, PA 15219 August 10, 2017 10:00 A.M. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation. HACP’s has revised their website. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and log-in, in order to view and download IFB/RFPs documentation. Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.
The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby requests proposals from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): Consulting Services Needed to Procure and Install a Hosted Telephone System RFP #200-39-17 The documents will be available no later than July 24, 2017 and signed, sealed proposals will be accepted until 11:00 A.M., August 21, 2017 at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street, 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Parties or individuals interested may obtain information from: Mr. Kim Detrick – Procurement Director/ Contracting Officer Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 2nd Floor, Suite 200 100 Ross Street Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-456-5116, Option 1 or by visiting the Business Opportunities section of www.hacp.org A pre bid meeting will be held: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 100 Ross Street, 2nd Floor, Conference Room Pittsburgh, PA 15219 August 11, 2017 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. HACP’s has revised their website. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and log-in, in order to view and download IFB/RFPs documentation. Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.
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HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR PRINTING AND MAILING OF VPAC NEWSLETTERS IFB# 400-38-17
The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request proposals from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): PRINTING AND MAILING OF VPAC NEWSLETTERS IFB# 400-38-17 The documents will be available no later than July 24, 2017 and signed, sealed bids will be accepted until 2:00 p.m. on August 11, 2017 at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, at which time they will be opened and read aloud. Parties or individuals interested in responding may download a copy of the Solicitation from the Business Opportunities page of www.HACP. org. Questions or inquiries should be directed to: Kim Detrick Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-456-5116 Opt 1 A pre bid meeting will be held: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Dept. 100 Ross Street 2nd. Fl. Ste. 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15213 Thursday, August 3, 2017 2:00 P.M. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation. HACP’s has revised their website. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and log-in, in order to view and download IFB/RFPs documentation. Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) FOR Medical and RX Insurance for Authority Employees Rebid RFP #650-15-17REBID
The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby requests proposals from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): Medical and RX Insurance for Authority Employees Rebid RFP# 650-15-17REBID The documents will be available no later than July 24, 2017 and signed, sealed proposals will be accepted until 9:00 A.M., August 11, 2017 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 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, 1st Floor, HR Conference Room Pittsburgh, PA 15219 August 3, 2017 9:00 A.M. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation. HACP’s has revised their website. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and log-in, in order to view and download IFB/RFPs documentation. Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.
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Pick up your Courier at these locations NORTH SIDE LOCATIONS NORTH SIDE BEER AND BEVERAGE 1304 Federal St. 7-11 1001 Western Ave. RICHEY’S BARBER SHOP 1207 N. Franklin St. NORTH SIDE VALERO 820 Pennsylvania Ave. RITE AID 802 Pennsylvania Ave. MARSHALL SHELL 1500 Spring Garden Ave. SWINKO’S MARKET 2535 Perrysville Ave. MERCY STREET EXPRESS 6 Mercy St. HARV’S EXXON 2501 Brighton Rd. QUICK SCHWARTZ 3235 Brighton Rd. HANINI MARKET 3245 Brighton Rd. SOUTH SIDE LOCATIONS KEN’S MARKET 216 Beltzhoover Ave. Daily Mart 1125 Arlington Ave. SHOP N’ SAVE Brownsville Rd., Carrick WEST END LOCATIONS CRAFTON BEVERAGE 15 Foster Ave., Crafton/Ingram Shopping Center SHEETZ 5400 Campbells Run Rd. SHOP N SAVE 2103 Noblestown Rd. HILL DISTRICT LOCATIONS SHOP N’ SAVE 1850 Centre Ave. WONG’S MARKET 2170 Centre Ave. ANN’S MARKET 2316 Webster Ave. A-PLUS MINI MARKET 2350 Centre Ave. UJAMMA BOUTIQUE 1901 Centre Ave. K LEROY IRVIS TOWERS 715 Mercer St. ABE’S MARKET 1860 Centre Ave. WYLIE TOBACCO 2152 Wylie Ave. POPULAR EAST END LOCATIONS
GETGO 4924 Baum Blvd. BP GAS STATION 11835 Frankstown Rd., Penn Hills PUFF’S DISCOUNT TOBACCO 10991 Frankstown Rd., Penn Hills SHOP N’ SAVE 3335 William Penn Hwy, near Monroeville Mall GETGO 10525 Frankstown Rd., Penn Hills CVS PHARMACY 10600 Frankstown Rd., Penn Hills SHELL GAS STATION 7619 Baum Blvd., Shadyside STANTON NEGLEY DRUG 804 N. Negley Ave., Highland Park UNIMART 5724 Ellsworth Ave., Shadyside SHELL GAS STATION 6701 Frankstown Rd., East Hills SQUIRREL HILL NEWS 5804 Forbes Ave., Squirrel Hill MURRAY AVE. NEWS 2024 Murray Ave., Squirrel Hill PUFF’S DISCOUNT TOBACCO 234 Yost Blvd., Braddock Hills DORSEY’S RECORDS 7614 Frankstown Ave., Homewood HOMEWOOD MARKET 7201 Frankstown Ave., Homewood SHEETZ 3457 William Penn Hwy., Monroeville WILLIAM PENN SMOKE SHOP 132 North Highland Ave., East Liberty DOWNTOWN LOCATIONS PENN AVENUE 7-11 (Sixth and Penn) Koppers Building (Ninth and Penn) NEWS-NUMBERS 136 Penn Avenue SMITHFIELD NEWS 115 Smithfield St. 7-11 SMITHFIELD 420 Smithfield St. FABER COE & GREGG 500 Grant St. FABER COE & GREGG 600 Grant St. NIELSEN’S STORES One Oxford Centre, Grant St. WOOD STREET 7-11 429 Wood St. NEWSTAND Sixth and Wood ONE STOP
300 Sixth & Wood OTHER DOWNTOWN LOCATIONS INCLUDE... KWIK-E-MART 212 Tenth St. 7-11 643 Liberty Ave. ESTER’S SNAX Federal Building, Second Floor FABER COE & GREGG Fifth Ave. Place, First Floor EXTRA EXTRA NEWS 413 Seventh Ave. UTSAV NEWS 400 Cherry Way C&C NEWS 2 PPG Place EDDIE’S SNACKS 262 Fifth Ave. BIG DADDY 465 Forbes Ave. GIANT EAGLE (18 Pittsburgh Locations) 6320 Shakespeare St., East Liberty (EAST, near BUSWAY) 4004 Monroeville Blvd., Monroeville (MONROEVILLE MALL) 230 Rodi Rd., Penn Hills (EAST inside Penn Hills Shopping Center) 9001 Frankstown Road. (EAST, corner of Frankstown and Verona Rd.) 550 Centre Ave., Shadyside (EAST, Market District) 3812 O’Neill Blvd., McKeesport (SOUTHEAST) 1356 Hoffman Blvd., West Mifflin (NEAR KENNYWOOD) 1901 Murray Ave., Squirrel Hill (EAST) 1005 Freeport Road, Waterworks Mall (NEAR FOX CHAPEL) 4250 Murray Ave., Greenfield (EAST) 254 Yost Blvd., Forest Hills/Braddock Hills (SOUTH EAST) 1705 S. Braddock Ave., Edgewood Towne Center (EAST) 420 East Waterfront Dr., Homestead (SOUTHEAST) 4680 Old William Penn Hwy, Ames Plaza, Route 22 (NEAR MURRYSVILLE) 2021 Wharton Ave. (SOUTH SIDE FLATS) 318 Cedar Ave., North Side (NORTH near E. OHIO ST.) Crafton/Ingram Shopping Center, 51 Walsh Road (WEST END) Parkway Center Mall, 1165 McKinney Lane (WEST END)
SPORTS New Pittsburgh Courier
Steelers at N.Y. Giants
Preseason Game 1 Aug. 11
B7
AUGUST 2-8, 2017
www.newpittsburghcourier.com
PITTSBURGH’S OWN ANDY BLACKWELL was a three-sport athlete at Westinghouse High School, then became a Hall-of-Fame baseball player in the semi-pro leagues. The photos show Blackwell as a baseball player in Homewood, left, then as a World Series winner in the semi-pro leagues, right.
A man of many sports—but a Hall-of-Famer in baseball
by Rob Taylor Jr. Courier Staff Writer
Pittsburgh native Andy Blackwell—a man who, at first, was known as the “only Black guy on the team”—turned out to be the best guy on the team, and a Hall-of-Famer. Gone are the days when 20 percent of the Major Leagues were filled with Black baseball players. And nowadays, it’s hard to find a baseball team of any level that’s even 10 percent Black. But the baseball bug bit Blackwell as a kid, and it took him to his highest levels in the world of athletics. “I found that I had the most success as a child in baseball,” Blackwell told the New Pittsburgh Courier in an exclusive interview. “Baseball was bigger in Black communities back then.” Blackwell played in the late 1980s and early 1990s for in the Uptown Little League, winning championships in tournaments held in Brookline. “I had a lot of fun, winning, playing as a child in baseball.” Blackwell remembers
having a parade through the middle of the old Martin Luther King Jr. Field in the Hill District. It was there that he played for the Cardinals. “I was 8 years old…my first little league game I hit a home run, and I felt confident from there,” Blackwell recalled. “When I became 10, 11, 12 years old, teams didn’t want to pitch to me. I was just ahead, above kids at 10 years old when they were 12.” Blackwell went on to star at quarterback for Westinghouse High School, while also starring in baseball and basketball. He graduated in 1997. Blackwell then spent time playing baseball for Garrett Community College (Md.), the Canton, Ohio Crocodiles, semi-pro team North Pittsburgh, and then for St. Johns Lefty’s Saints. With the St. Johns team, Blackwell won multiple local championships, made multiple trips to the semi-pro baseball World Series and won the National Amateur Baseball Federation (semipro) World Series in 2013 in Battle Creek, Michigan. But Blackwell’s on-field
Better late than never, Blackwell eventually got his chance, and the rest is history. “I was a center fielder, batted .400, and for 10 years of the league I led in runs scored and stolen bases. No hitting the ball to center field, everything was caught,” Blackwell said about his time with St. Johns, where he never experienced direct or indirect discrimination. Blackwell was inducted into the semi-pro baseball Hall of Fame in Evansville, Indiana in 2014. He was among the youngest players ever selected to that Hall. “It was a feeling of joy,” Blackwell told the Courier about his Hall of Fame selection. “When you play semi-pro, you feel like you’re playing for the love, and to actually get something out of it was pure joy. I made history and I was proud of myself.” When you play semi-pro ball, said Blackwell’s coach, Tom McCarthy, “you love playing baseball. It’s not the easiest commitment, but ANDY BLACKWELL, left, was a standout quarterback for Westing- the guys who have played house in the mid-1990s. for us, they still continue to
successes didn’t come without some direct—and indirect—backlash. “When I went to play professional baseball, it was like, ‘who are you?’ I was the only Black guy on the team, I had braids in my hair, other racist stuff I had to deal with,” Blackwell said about his time with some of the teams. “They were calling me Snoop Dogg, the coach didn’t think I could
play, didn’t even put me in the game for three or four months. He had no conversation for me, but one day I got in the game and went 3-for-3, and I told him I could really play.” Blackwell said he still didn’t get into the starting lineup, and he “was getting no fun out of sitting on the bench, and I knew the guys playing weren’t better than me.”
be highly-dedicated to playing. They are the kids that are going to be there every night, and Andy was like that. You knew he would be there.” McCarthy said Blackwell’s biggest talents were his “speed, hitting, defense… he had everything and every tool you would expect or want out of a player.” Though Blackwell retired in 2015, McCarthy told the Courier he has been in talks with Blackwell about returning to the field if an age 28-and-up league is formed. But for now, Blackwell is focused on getting today’s Black kids hip to the games they love—baseball, basketball, or football. Blackwell currently is a football coach for the Homewood Bulldogs (ages 13-14). “I think I have the skills, and I know what to teach the kids,” he said. “Teach them the proper skills and techniques and (make sure they) stick with it. “Whatever you’re into, you do it all year long, and you’ll be the best. I want to just put the excitement back into our younger kids.”
When the ‘Bell’ tolls–Le’Veon needs to report to camp New movie ‘Girls Trip’ is not a trip worth taking! by Aubrey Bruce
For New Pittsburgh Courier
The “court,” or should I say the 2017 training camp of the Steelers is now in session and pre….tty soon one of the principal combatants may be placed on the witness stand to explain his own stand. That person is none other than the Steelers running back/wide receiver extraordinaire, Le’Veon Bell. The Steelers, for whatever reason, did not abandon Bell during his past legal difficulties, but they did kick his ganja partaking partnerin-crime Legarrette Blount to the “curb” where he was picked up by the New England Patriots’ “uber driver” and transported to a few Super Bowls, “hookah” and all. The ownership of the Pittsburgh Steelers Football Club as well as their head coach, Mike Tomlin, usually tries to correct a difficult situation with a player if possible. However, things don’t historically bode well for Steelers holdouts trying to jockey for position when in the midst of contract negotiations or players with selfish motives; just give former Steelers running back “fast” Willie Parker a “ringy dingy” and he will tell you that it did not work out so well for him. Parker was a large part of the Steelers’ Super Bowl XL victory. During that game, Parker had the longest running play from scrimmage in the history of the Super Bowl at that time. That singular play helped to ensure that the Steelers won their fifth Lombardi Trophy. Yet, when Parker became selfish complaining that he wasn’t getting enough carries, the response of Mike Tomlin, according to a January 30, 2009 article by Gerry Dulac of the Post-Gazette was: “Every morning I come to work, I walk past five Lombardi’s, not five rushing titles.”
Inside Conditions
AUBREY BRUCE Parker lasted with the Steelers until April 2010, a little more than a year after his quest for more carries. Most people are convinced that request may have unmasked me, me, me type of intentions by Mr. Parker. Think about it. During the year prior to his release, Parker had first-round draft pick, Rashard Mendenhall breathing down his neck. This year, Bell has third-round pick and local fan favorite James Conner breathing fire and brimstone in the collar area of Monsieur Le’Veon. If the Steelers released Parker, a proven Super Bowl winner even though he may not have had the skill set of Bell, well let’s just say this: no one is irreplaceable. Is there a certain demeanor of greed emanating from the agent that represents Monsieur Bell or from one or more of the principals that may be part of his personal management team? With the “money ball” epidemic running rampant through the camps of both the owners and the players, I must make it perfectly clear that I am not for or against the owners or the players being adequately compensated for the services they provide for each other as well as for the
public and the fans. However, Bell must understand that not attending training camp will by no means increase his value. No one can deny that Bell has been a crucial, maybe at times an almost irreplaceable component in the Steelers offensive success over the past few years. However, there have also been occasions that questionable behavior by Bell has resulted in league violations as well as criminal penalties that were levied against him. He also experienced untimely injuries that left the Steelers in an unenviable competitive position at crucial times during the postseason, including last year’s AFC Title Game against the Patriots. Being compensated $12 million-plus for a season’s work does not exactly amount to standing in the welfare line, and as great as he is, the Steelers have not hoisted a Lombardi Trophy over their heads during his short tenure with the team. Helping Pittsburgh win a seventh NFL championship will almost certainly increase his market value. I usually shy away from salary disputes because I am not the one that has to pay an athlete and I am not the athlete that has to put themselves at risk performing for their team. I humbly suggest that Bell forego any and all advice from those who are not playing the game for him because one thing is for certain and two things are for sure, Bell had better get home to camp before the “crack” of dusk as well as the 2017 NFL season. Why? Simply because the Pittsburgh Steelers are the ones that have Bell’s “glass slipper” in their possession. How do I know? I am sure that they have the missing slipper because the last time that I checked, the prince had already left the building.
by Bill Neal
For New Pittsburgh Courier
:10—Okay, let’s get right to it. I know. I’m in the minority and I’m going to get beat up for this…but the movie “Girls Trip,” is not a trip worth taking! (What’s this have to do with sports you ask?) Because moviegoing is a sport…so shut up and read on. No. 1—Why do people have to push vulgar language to the max? And why, oh why, do Black actors have to buy into it? No. 2—Not only words out of a woman’s mouth that you would not want to kiss, but countless stereotypes to go along with it. No. 3—There were more foul words in 10 minutes of this movie than all four Godfathers, Goodfellas and Richard Pryor’s last concert combined. No. 4—Why do these successful, accomplished, rich Black actresses succumb to these cheap theatrics? No. 5—Last, but not least…It Was - Not - Funny!!! Queen Latifah, Jada Pinkett Smith, Regina Hall, and Tiffany Haddish…urinating over a crowd of people in New Orleans…REALLY? I give you all just “one basketball” and that’s only because Hall’s message at the end of the movie to empower women was the only good thing about the movie. (Hit me up, people. 412628-4856. I - CAN - TAKE –IT!) :09—Here are the newly-inducted baseball Hall of Fame inductees: Jeff Bagwell, Ivan “Pudge” Rodriguez, Tim Raines, Bud Selig and John Schuerholz. (For the record, Tim Raines should have been in a while ago.) :08—A great story on Megyn Kelly’s new show on NBC Sunday night (July 30). Coach Lou Adams (Aubrey Bruce can be reached working inner-city magic at: abruce@newpittsburghcouri- in Chicago at Orr Academy er.com or 412-583-6741.) High School. Not just an-
Overtime
BILL NEAL other feel-good basketball story from the ‘hood. The difference being, they’re in the middle of the killing fields in our nation. Do yourself a favor. Pull it up online. In this one, none of the players die and they win the state title. No spoiler alert here. It’s a must-see. :07—Now that O.J.’s about to be out, do not worry about starting the O.J. Simpson Go Fund Me account. The Juice has $5 million in his active retirement plan and will be carrying about $10,000 a month across the goal line from his NFL pension. (Hell, who said crime doesn’t pay!) Just kidding, just kidding…like I told ya before, O.J. didn’t do it!) :06—If you missed it on Sunday (July 30), Andrew “Don’t Trade Me Bro” McCutchen hit three, count ‘em, THREE home runs against the San Diego Padres. The third time in his career. Pirates won, 7-1. Buccos are in fourth place in the division, trailing the Cubs by five games. It ain’t over yet. (Well, it kinda is!) :05—Worry not little ones about Pittsburgh Steeler Martavis Bryant. Just some NFL technicalities regarding the suspension, but Bryant’s good to go for
the upcoming season. :04—Keep this to yourself ‘cause I’m not allowed to say this stuff in the paper. Stephan and Mr. Doss will have me swingin’ from one of these bridges…but Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds is coming September 23. Buy a Courier. That’s all I can tell ya! (Let that “be the cool in you!”) :03—Here’s something you don’t have to keep quiet. Did you know that the great Roberto Clemente hit an inside-the-park grand slam home run in 1956 against the Cubs at Forbes Field? Now that’s your first for real walk-off home run. And here’s a little more trivia. He ran through the third base coach’s stop sign and got fined $25. Go figure. No good deed goes unpunished. :02—Last chance for real. The Armen “The Hammer” Gilliam “Hard Work” Basketball Camp for boys and girls ages 8-16 is this Saturday and Sunday (August 5-6), from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., at the Penn Hills YMCA. Twenty spots remaining. Lunch, T-shirt, certificate, supervision from college and pro players, skills and drills, games and lots of hard work. Call 412-628-4856 to register. Only $25 for both days. C’mon man! :01—In fond and loving memory for Ms. Connie Parker. A wonderful woman, community advocate, political leader, tireless worker for civil rights and less fortunate and I’m privileged to say my friend! Ms. Parker, the local chapter NAACP president, passed away last week at age 74. God Bless you, Connie Parker. :00—GAME OVER…But don’t forget the White Party of the year at the Savoy, Saturday, September 2, 4-9 p.m., with the blowout car show! More details later…
B8
PEOPLE
AUGUST 2-8, 2017
NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER
It’s official! Our Courier readers have the biggest and brightest
TANISHA FLUKER, a Carlow University graduate, with daughters Janiyah, top right, Juliette, front left, and Jaslyn, front right.
THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH’s Gina Davis, with human relations commission intern Rondell Jordan!
JOHN BETTIS! COURIER FAN 4 LIFE!
KOMAL RIZVI AND VERONICA MILLINER!
PITTSBURGH’S OWN APRIL AND SUE CHEEKS!
WAMO 100’S NIGEL, RIGHT, WITH WAMO FANS…
WAMO 100’s KIKI BROWN!