10.13.21 NPC

America’s best weekly

INSIDE Special Edition Voters Guide—Municipal Election

Pittsburgh Courier NEW

www.newpittsburghcourier.com Vol. 112 No. 41 Two Sections

thenewpittsburghcourier Published Weekly $1.00

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

Ralph P. Watson, former Wilkinsburg Council member, marketing guru, dies at 63

by Renee P. Aldrich For New Pittsburgh Courier

In a quiet dignified homegoing service, on Friday, Oct. 8, the Honorable Ralph Philip Watson was

of people in the Pittsburgh region over the years.

Eulogized by Mt. Ararat Pastor William Curtis, Watson, a native of Wilkinsburg, passed away on Sept. 28. He was 63.

RALPH P. WATSON was given a proclamation by Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto in this 2016 photo. laid to rest.

Held at Mt. Ararat Baptist Church, many people bid their final farewells to the man who had, through his “Classic Events!” platform, honored hundreds

Pastor Curtis, in his eulogy, quoted the biblical scripture, Psalms 37:23—“The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord and he delighteth in his way.”

“Ralph P. Watson may

not have been an ordained minister of the gospel, but I feel that his steps on this earth were indeed an assignment of God to the Pittsburgh community atlarge,” said Jacquelyn McDonald, friend of Watson and photographer who captured images at his events.

“And he used his platform, ‘Classic Events!,’ to shine on and pay homage to individuals working to uplift the community—and in doing so he uplifted the community. It is my hope that his legacy and commitment to highlighting people for their talent and gifts will be continued through our future leaders.”

Celebration of his life included the reading of a proclamation from Congressman Mike Doyle and two solos by Valetta O’Kelly and Gale Brown. A repast immediately following internment at Allegheny Cemetery was held at the Mt. Ararat Community Center.

Watson had a special affinity for promoting entrepreneurship, and being a former elected official himself, he respected and understood what it took to be a politician. He had served RALPH P. WATSON, who formerly was a Wilkinsburg School Board member and member of Wilkinsburg Borough Council, died on Sept. 28 at age 63. He was also known for his popular “Classic Events!” television show on PCTV-21 and his annual events which honored those making a difference in PittsSEE WATSON A7 burgh.

‘We don’t want anyone forgetting that this election is a key election’ Pittsburgh’s Black community urged to vote on Nov. 2

by Rob Taylor Jr. Courier Staff Writer

Pittsburgh Courier NEW

To subscribe, call 412-481-8302 ext. 136

Chances are, you voted in last year’s presidential election, in which Joe Biden narrowly defeated Donald Trump in the critical state of Pennsylvania.

If you voted for Biden, it proved that “every vote counts,” as Biden is now president.

But just because this Nov. 2 isn’t a presidential election year doesn’t mean you get to slack off, sit back and watch another rerun of “Sanford and Son.” “We don’t want anyone forgetting that this election is a key election,” voiced TIM STEVENS, chairman and CEO of the Black Political Empower- a demonstrative Tim Stement Project, speaks during a news conference in the Hill District, vens, chairman and CEO Oct. 11. (Photo by Rob Taylor Jr.) of the Black Political Empowerment Project, during a news conference in the Hill District, Oct. 11. Once again, his organization is

canvassing Pittsburgh’s Black communities with yard signs and an overall message that the Black vote is imperative in this area.

“Right now we have the opportunity to elect a new mayor, whoever that will be for the City of Pittsburgh,” Stevens said, flanked by B-PEP members and community supporters. “We have school board races, we have judicial races...”

State Rep. Ed Gainey is the Democratic mayoral nominee, who has a good chance of winning the mayoral election in a city that is dominated by Democrats. His win would also mark the first time an African American is mayor of Pittsburgh. Representative Gainey’s opponent, Tony SEE ELECTION A2

METRO

A2 OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

THE B-PEP BANNER shown above will be placed on a number of Port Authority buses, urging people to vote in the Nov. 2 election. (Photo by Rob Taylor Jr.)

Pittsburgh’s Black community urged to vote on Nov. 2 ELECTION FROM A1

Moreno, was a registered Democrat who was defeated in the Democratic primary by Rep. Gainey in May, but switched to run on the Republican ticket when voting bylaws afforded him the opportunity to do so.

“We have a historic moment in Pittsburgh,” Stevens remarked. “People will choose if they want to elect the first Black mayor of Pittsburgh. It’s a historic moment. People need to choose between the Republican candidate and the Democratic candidate and make a choice.”

B-PEP cannot openly support a political candidate, but when it comes to getting the word out for Blacks to vote, they’re unabashedly supportive of Pittsburgh’s African Americans.

“We want to empower our community in any way we can, because again, we cannot be sleep,” Stevens said. “We want to make voter registration fun. We want to make voting fun.”

Those wishing to send in a mail-in ballot must first

THE NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER PUBLISHING COMPANY

Publication No.: USPS 381940 315 East Carson Street Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Phone: 412-481-8302 Fax: 412-481-1360 The New Pittsburgh Courier is published weekly

submit an application to the Allegheny County Elections Division for a mail-in ballot by Oct. 26.

Once your mail-in ballot is received via the mail, it must be returned by Election Day, Nov. 2. It’s recommended that all completed mail-in ballots are sent through the mail at least four days prior to Election Day to ensure that it is received by the Elections Office in time.

Of course, there’s always the option to vote on Election Day in person at your usual polling location, of which there are more than 1,000 locations in Allegheny County.

“The fight for civil and human rights and political rights is far from over,” Stevens said. “Anyone who does not vote, you’re contributing to disempowering our community. What if all those who are disabled, all of us of color, all of the young people, all those groups who are marginalized in so many ways...what if they all came out to vote in each and every election? We would be able to put people in, take people out, who do not meet our demands, who do not meet our expectations, our needs and aspirations and concerns.”

B-PEP also said that it FAITH MUDD, right, and Kim Mudd hold the posters and yard signs that are being circulated in Black communities across Pittsburgh. (Photo by Rob Taylor Jr.)

“The fight for civil and human rights and political rights is far from over. Anyone who does not vote, you’re contributing to disempowering our community.”

- TIM STEVENS Chairman and CEO, B-PEP

Periodicals paid at Pittsburgh, Pa. PRICE $1.00 (Payable in advance) 6 Months—$25 1 Year—$45 2 Years—$85 9-Month School Rate $35

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to:

New Pittsburgh Courier 315 East Carson Street Pittsburgh, PA 15219

provides rides for those who wish to vote at polling locations but don’t have transportation. Lorraine Cross, with B-PEP, said that those wishing to be drivers on Election Day can call 412-2128775.

For more information on voting in Allegheny County, visit alleghenyvotes.com or call 412350-4550.

For more information on voting in the upcoming election, call 412-212-8775 or 412-350-4550.

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

METRO

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021 A3

Congratulations, William McCollum!

CONGRATULATIONS ARE IN ORDER FOR WILLIAM MCCOLLUM, who was given a proclamation by Pittsburgh City Council last month after almost 50 years of service with the city. He was hired as a laborer on March 20, 1972, in the Department of Public Works. McCollum was then promoted to truck driver in October 1979, transferred to the asphalt division in January 1980, and transferred to the 2nd division in 2004 where he stayed until his retirement on Sept. 13, 2021. The total years of service? 49 years, 5 months. (Photos by Courier photographer J.L. Martello)

WILLIAM MCCOLLUM

A4

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

METRO

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Black Political Empowerment Project celebrates

m

ERIC JOHNSON, GUITARIST

MICHELYN HOOD, of KDKA-TV, with B-PEP Chairman and CEO Tim Stevens. The event was held, Sept.

20, at the Heinz History Center. (Photos by Courier photographer J.L. Martello)

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER STEPHAN BROADUS was honored at B-PEP’s Jazz celebration. Broadus was the original co-coordinator with Stevens when B-PEP began in 1986. “It’s something that I’ve been proud of for years, getting that started and helping to get folks registered to vote,” Broadus said.

BETTY DOUGLAS, vocalist, dancing to some music at the affair.

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

METRO

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

35 years with annual Jazz appreciation gala

JEFF MONTGOMERY, on drums. (Photos by Courier photographer J.L. Martello)

HOWIE ALEXANDER, on keys.

LISA SYLVESTER, VALERIE DIXON

THE PORTERS

A5

A6

HEALTH

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Take Charge Of Your Health Today. Be Informed. Be Involved.

Stopping the School-to-Prison Pipeline

ESTHER L. BUSH

The School-toPrison Pipeline: What We Must Do This month’s health page “Take Charge of Your Health Today. Be Informed. Be Involved.” addresses a topic about which I am deeply passionate. As a former high school teacher and education advocate, I have pushed for economic and social equality initiatives that benefit African Americans and, thereby, our entire community.

I have long argued for the vital importance of equitable access to education and have championed for youths to have the supports they need to achieve their potential. My efforts were recognized as a Champion of Change in the Educational Excellence for African Americans program at the White House during President Obama’s administration.

In fall 2019, the Mayor Peduto’s Gender Equity Commission released a report by University of Pittsburgh researchers showing that the City of Pittsburgh’s rate of school suspensions and police referrals of Black students is among the highest compared to 89 other cities across the country. We must acknowledge how serious a problem this is for our children. When we push children and youths out of school and into the juvenile court system, we are contributing to loss of human potential.

Addressing this systematic inequality is what researchers Drs. Vaughn-Coaxum and Huguley are tackling in their work. Dr. Vaughn-Coaxum explores ways in which harmful environments and adversities during childhood may influence the ways in which children cope with stress.

She calls for greater emphasis on mental health supports for children who have disruptive and challenging behaviors.

Dr. Huguley has developed an innovative intervention project called “Just Discipline” that brings restorative practices and relational approaches to transform schools and increase supports for youths. The program also helps student leaders to promote change in their school environments. Already, this project has shown substantial reductions in the number of school suspensions.

As our children and youths return to school, I am calling on all of us to come together to encourage our schools to reduce suspensions and strive to keep youths in school.

The more we can disrupt the school-to-prison pipeline through innovative practices in schools and increased behavioral health supports, the greater the chance that our children and youths will thrive. The children in our region deserve no less.

Esther L. Bush President and CEO, Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh

For some children in the United States, school is not only a place of learning but can be a point of entry into the criminal justice system.

In some schools, even minor breaks from the rules can lead to children’s behavior being criminalized and dealt with by authorities outside of school—sometimes without consideration of what motivated the behavior. Behavioral consequences can include children being removed from school and coming into contact with the juvenile court system/incarceration. This movement is commonly referred to as the school-toprison pipeline.

Not all children who break school rules are sent on this pipeline in equal measure.

According to the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights, school disciplinary policies disproportionately affect students of color. Black students are suspended and expelled three times more than White students. Knowing these disparities exist and that the school-to-prison pipeline is a problem, how can the situation improve?

In part, the answer may lie in understanding the root of the problem—why some children are exhibiting certain behaviors in school.

Research has shown that adverse life events—like fewer economic resources, child abuse and neglect, exposure to community violence or bullying—have

RACHEL VAUGHN-COAXUM, PHD

“It’s important to consider in what ways we punish behaviors that may serve to protect children in other environments.”

- Dr. Rachel Vaughn-Coaxum significant effects on mental health, emotion regulation and other skills people need to function well.

Rachel Vaughn-Coaxum, PhD, assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, says, “Experiences of deprivation of resources

are associated with changes in cognitive functioning and development, including language learning, flexible thinking, memory, self-control and time management.

Experiences related to threats to well-being are associated with emotion regulation. These experiences

are usually seen as disruptions in development. But, it’s important to consider that something that looks atypical in a child’s development might be adaptive.

What some people view as a deficit in development may actually be a necessary adaptation to survive in less stable environments.”

Dr. Vaughn-Coaxum says it is important to consider that, in certain environments, the consequences of adversity may put children at much higher risk for difficulties at school. If children are having difficulty regulating their emotions and are more likely, because of their race, ethnicity or socioeconomic status, to receive more punitive measures at school, this could put them at risk of becoming part of the school-to-prison pipeline.

Childhood adversity puts children at higher risk for behavioral and mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. Not all children receive the help they need to process adverse life events (research shows that 50% or less of children get the mental health assistance they need-https://jamanetwork.com/ journals/jamapediatrics/ fullarticle/2724377?guestAccessKey=f689aa19-31f1481d-878a-6bf83844536a).

In addition to getting treatment, children also need treatments that work best for them. Dr. Vaughn-Coaxum is currently conducting

two* studies** that are looking at the way adverse life experiences influence the way children learn basic coping skills in treatment and examining the effectiveness of certain therapy skills. Research shows that standard treatments for depression do not always work as well in children who have a history of adversity. Dr. Vaughn-Coaxum wants to understand why in order to better target the delivery of helpful coping skills to children who have experienced higher levels of stress and adversity.

Children need to be able to get support for mental health issues, get the treatment that works best for them and there needs to be consideration that some disruptive behaviors emerge from adverse life experiences.

“It’s important to consider in what ways we punish behaviors that may serve to protect children in other environments,” says Dr. Vaughn-Coaxum.

To learn more about Dr. Vaughn-Coaxum’s studies, call 412-526-8667 or email ECYMHlab@pitt.edu. * LEADS Study Pitt+Me page: https://pittplusme. org/studyarms/publicdetails?guid=bac43d1e-1ecd-4 56d-8fa8-cf0e87923ad5 ** ShARE Study Pitt+Me page: https://pittplusme. org/studyarms/publicdetails?guid=6002f3c2-1dc548d2-9f15-8519ea271b15

Just Discipline Project: Promoting Thriving through Middle Childhood Schooling

by James P. Huguley and Rachelle H. Haynik Center of Race and Social Problems, University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work

The school-to-prison pipeline holds consequences for the academic, criminal justice and mental health needs of African American youth. Since 2017, the Just Discipline Project (JDP) has been working in Pittsburgh-area schools to decrease the impact of the school-to-prison pipeline using a model of whole-school cultural change. The model includes placing a restorative practice coordinator in every partner school, training teachers and administrators in using restorative and relational approaches to school climate and empowering student leaders to become changemakers in the face of challenges to their well-being.

JDP represents the middle child cohort intervention

JAMES P. HUGULEY, RACHELLE H. HAYNIK under The Pittsburgh Study.

Through our transformational model, school communities seek to understand students deeply and to have a keen sense of the assets and challenges that are present in students’ lives.

These empathetic insights defuse many misunderstandings and biases before they escalate into conflict.

When problems do occur, we build on relational capital

to respond in ways that restore community. Under our model, struggling students are often recognized for their fullest potential, with many entering our Leaders in Training program (L.I.T. Leaders) to maximize their gifts. Through this aspect of the work, children not only benefit themselves, but they are trained to use restorative practices to mediate conflicts in ways that help their peers thrive, as well.

Teachers also play a major role in this school climate transformation. In classrooms each week, teachers hold community circles that allow students to better relate to each other, while giving teachers the opportunity to learn more about their

students’ lives and to share about their own. Moreover, for students who need more intensive support—like the ear of a social worker, school psychiatrist or other professional—the restorative practice coordinator is a trusted adult in the school building full-time, to whom students feel comfortable contacting in times of need. We also are launching a trauma-responsive intervention this fall for students facing ongoing adversity outside of school.

The model’s results to date have been quite promising. In the first two school years of the program, the pilot school saw a 22% decrease in suspensions and a 30% decrease in referrals.

Academic achievement in-

creased in math, science and language arts, and students surveyed said they felt safer and that they had more of a voice in the school. Of the teachers surveyed, 91% said they would like the restorative practices to continue.

This fall, staff from JDP will be in at least ten schools in Allegheny County, building on past successes.

Restorative Justice and culture-building programming started in the Pittsburgh Public Schools in the spring of 2017 and has continued since that time.

Evaluation of the work is ongoing.

RELIGION/METRO

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

Ralph P. Watson, former Wilkinsburg Council member, marketing guru, dies at 63

A7

Praise & Worship ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CATHOLIC CHURCH 91 Crawford Street Pgh., PA 15219 412-281-3141 Sunday Mass 11 AM effective October 3,2021 Rev. Thomas J. Burke- Pastor Rev. C. Matthew HawkinsParochial Vicar Rev. David H. TaylorSenior Parochial Vicar. www.sbtmparishpgh.com

East Liberty Presbyterian Church Rev. Dr. Randy Bush, Senior Pastor 412-441-3800

Worship in person or Online on Facebook/YouTube www.ELPC.church Journey Worship..........8:45am Sancutary worship.......11:00 a.m.

Taize -Wednesdays.........7:00 p.m.

CLASSIC EVENTS! FOUNDER RALPH P. WATSON gave local entrepreneurs a chance to showcase their business or product on his PCTV-21 television show for years. In this photo, dated Sept. 26, 2019, Watson celebrated his 100th show with many supporters and friends at the North Side studios. Pictured with Watson is State Farm Insurance Agent Danielle Howard.

WATSON FROM A1

on the Wilkinsburg School Board and on Wilkinsburg Borough Council.

“I’ve known Ralph for quite some time. Even as a young man, he was very active in our community and remained dedicated his entire life,” said Paige Trice, vice president of the Wilkinsburg Borough Council. “At the time of his passing, Ralph was vice chair of the Wilkinsburg Democratic Committee. He will be sadly missed by all.”

Notables in attendance at the service also included State Senator Jay Costa, former Allegheny County District Attorney candidate Turahn Jenkins, retired Pittsburgh Police Officer Brenda Tate, and Pittsburgh Democratic Mayoral Candidate Ed Gainey, who was recently recognized by Watson at Watson’s annual

Black History event in February.

“The city, Wilkinsburg, and this region has lost an icon. Ralph was more than a friend, he was my brother. He was an uncommon seed that gave life to everything he touched. In remembrance of him, I will commit to continue to give life to everything I touch,” Rep. Gainey said.

Since 2013, Watson hosted his “Classic Events!” television show on Pittsburgh Community Television. In September 2019, he held a grand celebration at the station for his 100th program.

“Ralph brought so much to the community and he was an outstanding human being full of light, encouragement, and enthusiasm,” said John Patterson, executive director of PCTV-21.

“His PCTV show, ‘Classic

Events Entrepreneur Platform,’ gave a platform to countless guests from the community including politicians (established and upcoming), entrepreneurs, and community leaders...

‘Classic Events Entrepreneur Platform’ was an award-winning show, taking home the Best Series Award for the 2018 Greater Pittsburgh Community Media Awards. In 2019 he was the awarded the Flo Rice Community Producer Award. To say that Ralph will be missed is an understatement. It was an honor and privilege to have him in our studio and to know him as a person.”

The homegoing service’s program booklet was replete with photos of the many who had been honored at one of the many in-person events Watson held over the years. His

friend, Gale Brown, said: “Ralph was a very special friend, and has left a major footprint in the Pittsburgh community; he was serious about connecting entrepreneurs, creating opportunities for youth entrepreneurs, and saluting the achievements of professionals in various entities— what he has done may be replicated but it won’t be duplicated; his passing will leave a void that won’t be

REV. WALKER SAYS: Our precious minutes, hours, days and years become our dash between birth and transition. It is what we do for Christ that will last.

(Rev. A. Marie Walker is servant pastor of St. John Baptist Church in Wilmerding.)

For rate information, call 412-4818302, ext. 128. We want to feature positive youth from our Pittsburgh church community. Please mail their bio and photo to: New Pittsburgh Courier 315 E. Carson St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219 or email us: religion@newpittsburghcourier. com

TELL US ABOUT YOUR NEXT CHURCH EVENT! EDDIE TIBBS, RALPH P. WATSON

“So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.”

- Psalm 90:12

Join our growing Praise and Worship Church Community!

filled—at least not the way he did it.”

Brown’s husband, Leslie Brown, added: “It is also very important to note that the cost of much of what he did came out of his pocket; these elegant, classy events were, overall, his own grassroots effort. His events had the right name, because he was a friend to all and a ‘classic gentleman.’”

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

The Courier is THE VOICE of Black Pittsburgh.

A8

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

New Pittsburgh Courier

Are vaccine mandates racist by definition?

J. Pharoah Doss B4

BUSINESS OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

www.newpittsburghcourier.com

Classifieds

Find what you need from jobs to cars to housing B5-6

B

Courier names Ashley Johnson Sales Director

No Employees

The New Pittsburgh Courier is pleased to announce the appointment of Ashley Johnson to Sales Director. In her new role, Johnson will focus on growth-related products and services and coordinate with the company-wide Real Times Media team on sales initiatives, tools integration and multi-market opportunities.

Additionally, she will develop and implement Courier sales strategies to increase retail, digital, and classified advertising and sponsorship opportunities. She will in-

How small businesses are being affected by the employee shortage

by Megan Kirk Michigan Chronicle

Small businesses are the backbone of the community.

Providing jobs, economic development and character to neighborhoods, the more than 28 million small businesses account for 54 percent of all U.S. sales. Nationwide, the number of small businesses has grown by 49 percent since 1982, per the U.S. Small Business Administration. Since the onset of the coronavirus, small businesses have been disproportionately affected. Now, just off the heels of a pandemic, owners are coping with employee shortages.

Business owners across the country were met with unforeseen hurdles due to the pandemic. While some small businesses have been forced to close their doors permanently, others have barely been able to stay afloat.

Those lucky to have survived the pandemic are now faced with a new dilemma — running a business with limited staff. Affecting everything from food availability to the customer service experience, the pandemic’s effect and the shortage of employees in businesses is causing major issues for small business owners.

“We don’t have enough employees to extend our hours

so we’re still on the restricted hours. People don’t want to work because they are making more money at home with unemployment. Now with these rates, we’re small businesses, we can only pay so much,” says Chef Musheya Glenn, owner, operator and chef of Detroit Taco Bar and Pasta Bowl on the city’s west side.

Information published

“People are coming in and they want $16 to $18 dollars per hour and they say ‘Taco Bell is paying this’ and I have to let them know those are big corporations. They’re on every corner. I am a standalone, small, mom and pop restaurant. There is no way I can pay that,” says Nicole Christian, owner of Burger Grille.

Open since 2017, the Burg-

“People are coming in and they want $16 to $18 dollars per hour and they say ‘Taco Bell is paying this’ and I have to let them know those are big corporations. They’re on every corner. I am a standalone, small, mom and pop restaurant. There is no way I can pay that.”

- Nicole Christian, owner of Burger Grille

by Track the Recovery, an economic tracker used to measure the effects on businesses due to the pandemic, reveals that since January 2020 small businesses across Michigan have shrunk by 50 percent. Since May 2021, the employment rate for workers who are categorized in the bottom wage quartile fell by almost 29 percent. Although businesses are looking for the help, employers have not been able to remain fully staffed.

er Grille has, like many other small businesses, suffered during the pandemic. At full staff, the small carry-out style restaurant can have up to six employees. With just three, performing at halfstaff is taxing on its remaining workforce. The owner is determined not to overwork them.

“At times I’ve closed for a week to give my staff that are working with me, and myself, that time to relax and try to

get an understanding and a better grip on things. I can’t overwork the staff that I have.

It’s just extremely hard,” says Christian.

The Burger Grille has also had its menu affected by the price jumps caused by the pandemic. Already working limited hours, the business is facing food shortages.

“Every day it’s something going up. We are a burger restaurant and our beef is fresh. It’s halal beef, chicken and turkey. Before the pandemic, I was paying $20 for a one-pound bag of chicken tenders. Now, I’m paying almost $45 dollars,” says Christian.

Although federal loans and grants were offered to small businesses, a variety of deciding factors determined amount and eligibility. While some small businesses did receive the aid, there was still difficulty in keeping doors open.

As the federal government continues to lend aid to the unemployed and financially devastated, business owners are in steady competition with assistance. Often bringing home more money than working a standard 9 to 5 schedule, workers are opting to stay home.

“We can only pay so much.

We can’t compare or compete with the amount that the unSEE SHORTAGE B2

ASHLEY JOHNSON

tegrate the RTM360 approach to total marketing solutions into the New Pittsburgh Courier sales strategy.

In making the announcement, Editor and Publisher Rod Doss said, “We are pleased to present this opportunity to Ashley Johnson.

She has been a key team member whose passion for the Courier has proven an invaluable asset in transitioning the New Pittsburgh Courier into a more diverse marketing solution for our clients. We need and welcome her talent and expertise.”

Johnson began her career with the Courier in October 2007, as the Editorial Assistant, and in 2010, was promoted to Associate Editor. In this position she was responsible for compiling information for and the writing of “Under Attack By Us,” a monthly series reporting Allegheny County’s homicides and how they impact the community. While under her direction, the series received local and national recognition. In March of 2016, she left the Courier for another position. In August of 2016, she rejoined the Courier as the Advertising Coordinator, where she handled the Courier’s print and digital display advertising sales.

Additionally, she played an intricate role in the planning of special publication sections SEE JOHNSON B2

Black women are shouldering the financial burden ‘Blacks own 22 cents for every dollar owned by Whites’ ~ New Pittsburgh Courier Damon Says: I came across this article in the New Pittsburgh Courier. It was detailing the racial wealth gap amongst Blacks and Whites. What caught my attention is this article was comparing Black women to White men. I’m wondering why? As I was reading the article, I came across this; Black women are more likely to be single and breadwinners. Among Black women 80 percent are breadwinners compared to 50 percent of White women.

Black people as a whole are at the bottom of every financial category I’ve ever read—income, saving, investing, housing, credit scores, and net worth. Every financial statistical category I’ve ever read that is based on race, place Black people dead last. It usually flows in this order; Asian, White, Hispanic, Black.

But I’ve never read a report that talked about the racial wealth gap and evaluated specifically Black women in comparison to White men.

As I was reading this article, it seemed to be dismissive of Black men. When I read the statistic that 80 percent of Black women are the breadwinners, I paused and said WOW! When you combine that data with the fact that more Black women are graduating from college than Black men, more Black women

are starting businesses than Black men, I thought to myself, collectively speaking, we Black men as a whole need to get our $^+¥ together!

I coached youth sports for about 10 years. I recall several Black women saying to me, I’ve never seen this many Black men involved with their kids.

Those Black men became my friends. I met Black men in corporate America.

They were on their grind making moves.

Those Black men became my friends. I officiate High School Basketball. I belong to a basketball referee chapter of which 90 percent are Black men—all of whom are grinding and have multiple streams of income. Those men became my friends.

In my day-to-day life as an adult, I see Black men thriving —birds of a feather flock together. It never dawned on me that the Black men I had been around were the exception, not the norm—until I started paying attention to questions and comments I was hearing from Black women coupled with reports that I’ve been reading—and me simply observing Black men in general.

I’m reminded of a time we were discussing interracial dating on my Facebook page, one Black woman said we as Black women continue to date inside our race even though we know White men have more and can offer more. Her statement shocked me because I never heard it from that angle.

Black men as a whole—we can do bet-

ter! We must do better!! If our role is to protect, provide and lead, then let’s pick up a book, continue to educate ourselves, hit a gym, stay in shape, continue to increase our skill and know-how to make ourselves more marketable.

Our women need us to step up!!! Too many of our women are shouldering the burden on their own!

‘Earning $350,000 per year and just getting by’ ~ The Atlantic Damon Says: I came across this article in The Atlantic.

Imagine that—Earning $350,000 per year and living paycheck to paycheck!! Is that even possible?

Years ago, I used to quote a statistic published by The Wall Street Journal—70 percent of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. More recently, I quoted a statistic published by Forbes magazine—78 percent of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck.

What’s interesting is that when I quote these statistics, people assume I’m talking about low- to moderate-income earners struggling to make ends meet.

What’s telling is this—various publications conduct surveys and polls to obtain their results from their subscribers and readers. Who reads The Wall Street

Journal and Forbes magazine? Upwardly mobile professional and executive types earning above $70,000 per year. Many earning well into the 6-figures and some 7-figures.

If nearly 80 percent of our highest earners are living paycheck to paycheck, imagine what that percentage would be if we concentrated our survey to people earning the average household income of approximately $60,000 and lower?

America, the Land of the Great. A country filled with ample opportunity. A country whose global and individual personal economy is the best when compared to other countries...How is it that 78 percent of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck?

Wealth is built by having a gap between your income and expenses. The gap is used to save and invest to accumulate assets.

It’s The American Dream to earn a good living, own a home, have a prosperous life, and build wealth. But it’s not The American Way. Americans are buried in debt and their income is tied down by monthly payments. There’s no gap between their income and expenses. I owe, I owe so off to work I go is the crying mantra of people working and living in America!

The answer is yes you can earn $350,000 per year and just be getting by if you’re spending $350,000.01. You cannot out-earn overspending—regardless of income!

(Damon Carr, Money Coach can be reached at 412-216-1013 or visit his website at www.damonmoneycoach.com)

BUSINESS

B2 OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Stolen ‘Bruce’s Beach’ property returned to Black family

by Betti Halsell For New Pittsburgh Courier

(NNPA)—The story behind Bruce’s Beach tells a narrative of Black ownership in America. The original property owners of the resort, Charles and Willa Bruce, had their land seized by the City of Manhattan Beach.

The local government managed the rights to the land for almost 100 years.

However, on Thursday, September 30, the authority of Bruce’s Beach has been given back to the descendants of the original landowners.

The waves from the Pacific Ocean crashed onto the sandy shores owned by Willa and Charles Bruce. In 1912, as the first Black landowners in Manhattan Beach, the Bruce’s became a family that owned multiple beach plots.

According to documents and records, through corrupt means, the City of Manhattan took ownership of their property, representing the racial imbalance of that time. Looking through a lens of equality today, public officials of Los Angeles County decided to revisit the possibility of returning power of the beachfront back to the descendants of the Bruce family.

Located on 2600 Highland Avenue in Manhattan Beach, California, Bruce’s

UNDER THE LEADERSHIP of Supv. Janice Hahn and with the support of Supv. Holly Mitchell, Senator Steve Bradford and Governor Gavin Newsom worked collectively to right a 100-year-old wrong. (E. Mesiyah McGinnis/L.A. Sentinel) Beach served as an oasis-like resort for people of color looking to enjoy the scenic coast during times of

segregation. Noted previously, Willa and Charles Bruce purchased this piece of paradise for $1,225 ($33,034) and followed suit in buying more land after that.

Other families of color bought beach estates alongside them, forming a Black community of coastal property owners developed during the Jim Crow era.

invent the lots for public use.

The urgent takeover of the Bruce’s land was to fill the need for a public park.

The Bruce family fought for years in litigation; they asked for $120,000 ($3,203,044) for loss of property and damages. After a strenuous battle, the Bruces received $14,000, which is $300,000 in present-day, and

through a press release, “Moving to Right Historical Wrong.” He signed legislation to return Bruce’s Beach back to descendants of the original owners.

According to the information released by the California state governor’s office, the directive, SB-796, allows Los Angeles County Supervisors to transfer the land

The story behind Bruce’s Beach tells a narrative of Black ownership in America. The original property owners of the resort, Charles and Willa Bruce, had their land seized by the City of Manhattan Beach. The local government managed the rights to the land for almost 100 years. However, on Thursday, September 30, the authority of Bruce’s Beach has been given back to the descendants of the original landowners.

ANTHONY BRUCE, a descendant of Charles and Willa Bruce. (E. Mesiyah McGinnis/L.A. Sentinel)

Ashley Johnson JOHNSON FROM B1

and major events, such as the Men of Excellence, Women of Excellence and Fab 40 Award ceremonies.

While with the Courier, Johnson has received two Pittsburgh Black Media Federation awards; was a recipient of the Young, Gifted and Black award and a recipient of the Stop the Violence-Pittsburgh’s Celebration of Life award; and several other honors.

In her spare time, Johnson enjoys serving the

community. Currently, she serves as a member of the Board of Directors for Urban Academy of Greater Pittsburgh Charter School, the Pitt News Advisory Board and the Spirit of King Awards Ceremony planning committee; is the Membership Chair of the Pittsburgh Black Media Federation; and has hosted several community events. She is also a longtime member of the historic Bethel AME Church, in the Hill District.

There was a shared notion that only certain races should be allowed selected properties; this agenda was carried out through policies to seize privately- owned land for the betterment of the community.

The distaste in Black-ownership was not hidden; racially charged vandalism and sabotage were found routinely at Bruce’s Beach and similar places. During the Jim Crow era, Manhattan Beach City officials obtained the rights to Bruce’s beach, and other Blackowned coastal plots, through an ordinance known as eminent domain.

Through the eminent domain procedure, certain members of the Manhattan community empowered City officials to acquire privately-owned properties and re-

the other families received far less than that.

On April 8, Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn announced steps towards returning the waterfront landscape known as Bruce’s Beach back to the decendents of Charles and Willa Bruce.

On the day of the announcement, Janice Hahn stated, “The property that was once Bruce’s, is now owned by the County and I want L.A. County to be part of righting this wrong.”

She continued, “I am looking at everything from repurposing the property in a way that tells the history of Bruce’s Beach to actually giving the property back to the descendants of Charles and Willa Bruce.”

California State Governor Gavin Newsom announced

immediately to the Bruce family. Soaking up the historical moment at Bruce’s Beach, Newsom was joined

by Senator Steven Bradford, Bruce’s family members, and other civic public servants.

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors sponsored the urgent measure and authorized the county to immediately begin the process of transferring sources of ownership from Manhattan Beach back over to the Bruce family.

“As we move to remedy this nearly century-old injustice, California takes another step furthering our commitment to making the California Dream a reality for communities that were shamefully shut out by a history of racist exclusion,” said Governor Newsom. “We

know our work is just beginning to make amends for our past, and California will not shy from confronting the structural racism and bias that people of color face to this day. I thank the Bruce family, Senator Bradford, the Los Angeles County Supervisors and all those who fought to keep the legacy of this place alive and deliver this long-overdue justice.”

“SB-796 shows us that it is never too late to address the injustices of the past,” said Senator Bradford, a steadfast supporter of the Bruce family and who initially introduced the bill in April with other prominent local leaders. “If you can inherit generational wealth in this country, then you can inherit generational debt too. The City of Manhattan Beach, County of Los Angeles, and the State of California owe a debt to the Bruce family.”

He continued, “This bill passed the Legislature unanimously and with overwhelming community support, making it clear that our state is committed to tackling systemic racism head-on. As a member of the California Reparations Task Force, this is an example of what real reparations can look like. I applaud Governor Newsom for helping us pay a century’s-old debt by allowing Los Angeles County to move forward and return Bruce’s Beach to its rightful owners— the Bruce family.”

Supervisor Hahn released the news through her office by clarifying the power of the legislation by stating, “The legislation does not transfer the land. Instead, it removes restrictions on the land and gives LA County the authority to transfer the property.”

Hahn was joined by Kavon Ward, the Bruce family member who founded Justice for Bruce’s Beach, Senator Bradford, former Manhattan Beach Mayor Mitch Ward, Assemblyman Al Muratsuchi, and current Manhattan Beach Mayor Hildy Stern.

“This is a milestone for us, and I want to thank, not only Governor Newsom for signing this bill into law, but Senator Bradford for his leadership and the entire state Legislature for their unanimous support,” said LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn. “The work is far from done. Now that LA County officially has the authority to transfer this property, my goal over the next several months will be to transfer this property in a way that not only works for the Bruce family but is a model that other local governments can follow. Returning Bruce’s Beach can and should set a precedent for this nation and I know that all eyes will be on Los Angeles County as this work gets underway,” Hahn stated.

(Betti Halsell is a Contributing Writer for the Los Angeles Sentinel Newspaper)

No Employees SHORTAGE FROM B1

with the amount that the unemployment is doing unless you’re full-time. We can do that with certain employees, but not every employee,” says Chef Glenn.

Michigan’s Governor is stepping in to show small businesses across the state how their impact affects communities. Showing resilience and perseverance, Governor Whitmer sent personalized letters to 200 small business owners who stepped up during the pandemic and refused to let COVID-19 force a dream to end.

“I am completely in awe of the resilience and determination of Michigan’s small businesses to stand strong and push forward

during such unprecedented times,” Governor Gretchen Whitmer is quoted as saying in a press release.

“Small businesses are crucial to the success of our economy, and we are more than ready to get back on track and uplift our local entrepreneurs to continue to make this state a great place to work and live.”

Looking to help support small businesses as they bounce back from the financial restraints of the pandemic, the governor also launched a help site for small businesses looking to come out of the pandemic better than ever. The governor is also planning a $300 million investment to uplift small businesses through the Michigan Mainstreet Initiative.

BRUCE FAMILY MEMBERS thank Governor Gavin Newsom for his support. (E. Mesiyah McGinnis/L.A. Sentinel)

OPINION

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

B3

Study: George Floyd murder, pandemic highlighted importance of Black Press

Guest Editorial

R. Kelly forced out of the closet Recently in New York, R. Kelly the renowned R&B singer, was found guilty on all charges of racketeering and sex trafficking during a highly anticipated trial.

According to an online CBS News article written by Zoe Christen Jones, Kelly was accused by multiple witnesses of “targeting, grooming and exploiting young women and men for his own sexual gratification and running a ‘sex cult’ by trafficking people across state lines.”

He also “allegedly bribed a government worker to help him marry late R&B singer Aaliyah when she was 15 years old.”

According to the same source, 50 witnesses provided testimony, with only five testifying for the defense. Kelly could end up serving serious time, but a minimum of 10 years is mandatory, and he could possibly be sentenced to life in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for May 4, 2022. He is also scheduled to face additional charges in other states.

After the verdict, adoring fans were outside the courthouse playing his music.

This is not the first time Kelly has faced judgment; he had to stand trial years ago when it was widely held that he urinated on a 14-year-old girl. He beat that case. Unfortunately, that might be why he was emboldened to continue his previous behavior, which has now been brought “out of the closet.” This is in reference to one of his most popular songs, “Trapped in the Closet.”

A lot of African Americans, both men AND women, feel that Kelly is getting a bad rap. Bill Cosby, recently released from prison for his own alleged inappropriate behavior toward women, chimed in that he felt Kelly was “railroaded.” The truth is that most of the people who feel that Kelly should not serve time were not present at the trial, so they are operating from the standpoint of uninformed opinion.

It is very strange; those who support Kelly use all sorts of excuses for why he should go free or why those around him, including parents and staff, should also face trials and imprisonment. They blame the fact that he was molested by a family member as a youth and say that he did not get enough help.

Some also point to his alleged illiteracy. And many, MANY people say that no matter what he did, they will continue to “bump his music.” This is tacit acceptance of his behavior and subtle defiance in the face of the verdict.

What almost all of Kelly’s advocates fail to realize is the scope of his transgressions. People cheekily say that the parents should serve time because they sold their children to Kelly and became disgruntled when the money ran out.

They also insist that the victims were willing participants, though it’s not clear how a teenager can legally make those decisions.

Kelly’s supporters need to understand that his charges were not just the act of having sex with minors; it was far more sinister than that. Kelly imprisoned people; he controlled their day-to-day lives; he is guilty of kidnapping.

Victims could not go to the toilet without his permission; he has been accused of beating them, denying them food, and they were forced to perform sexual acts. Stories have surfaced that the girls had to lower their eyes when around other men. Basically, the description that surfaces brings to mind a den of sex slaves.

Even though these issues have been identified, supporters still want to incarcerate his former wife, who according to her, was a victim herself. They want to incarcerate “Sparkle,” whose niece was a Kelly victim. They ignore the fact that she was one of the first to blow the whistle on Kelly when she learned about his behavior, and her singing career suffered as a result.

They also blame Aaliyah’s parents for allowing Kelly to use her, even though it is on record that her parents had the marriage annulled when they found out about it.

The Kelly debacle is far more than meets the eye; it reveals a very curious flaw in the behavior of the Black community in America.

There is a reluctance to admit wrongdoing by those who act as predators on women and girls, and if there is no room for doubt, people “super deflect” by identifying every White person who has been accused of similar behavior.

Why do many African Americans defend predators? Celebrity worship? Racial animus? Whatever the case, this is a dangerous, destructive trend, and Black women and girls will continue to suffer from active and passive predation originating in their own communities if something doesn’t change!

(Reprinted from the Chicago Crusader)

Founded 1910

Rod Doss Editor & Publisher Stephan A. Broadus Assistant to the Publisher Allison Palm

Rob Taylor Jr.

Ashley Johnson

Office Manager

Managing Editor

Sales Director

John. H. Sengstacke

Editor & Publisher Emeritus (1912-1997)

(NNPA)—The racial awakening after the death of George Floyd didn’t prove as much of an arousal for mainstream media, after all.

By contrast, Floyd’s murder and the global protests that ensued further espoused the importance of the Black Press, and again revealed the dire straits of people of color face if there is no Black Press of America.

A new study released by the City University of New York’s Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism found that Black media publishes as much as six times more coverage than mainstream outlets on issues of importance to Black communities, including racism, health disparities, and voting access.

Released on Wednesday, October 6, the study, Why Black Media Matters Now, found that nearly one in four articles in Black media mentioned racism or related issues, as compared with less than one in 10 in mainstream media.

“Within coronavirus coverage, Black media wrote five times more on the disproportionate racial impact of the pandemic and nearly twice as much on frontline and essential workers,” CUNY researchers found.

The study concluded that Black media “stood out in its focus on a variety of other health issues of particular relevance to Black communities, including maternal health, hypertension, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and sickle cell disease.”

“It also led the way in coverage of voting access, racism, and stories that humanize the individuals and groups in the news,” the authors wrote.

They said Black media connects news events across subjects to cover wider issues of injustice, and it provides historical context to present day challenges and breaking news.

The authors paid homage to the Black Press of America, whom the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) has represented for more than 81 years.

“On March 16, 1827, in New York City, a group of free Black men founded Freedom’s Journal, the first newspaper owned by, led by and for Black Americans in the United States,” the authors wrote.

They noted that, in that inaugural four-page broadsheet, Samuel Cornish and John Russwurm, the editors and proprietors noted, “The peculiarities of this Journal, render it important that we should advertise to the world the motives by which we are actuated, and the objects which we contemplate. We

Stacy M. Brown

Commentary wish to plead our own cause. Too long have others spoken for us. Too long has the public’s been deceived by misrepresentations, in things which concern us dearly…”

The clear intention laid out in this founding document spoke to the need for Black press and set the tone for the role Black media still play in our communities and Black society at large, CUNY researchers exclaimed.

“Nearly 200 years later, Black media continue to create a space where Black folks can speak for ourselves about issues of importance and combat stereotypes that harm us,” the researchers continued.

This role of the Black press was both needed and visible over the past 18 months when the convergence of the worst pandemic in US history and state violence both were disproportionately impacting Black Americans, the researchers further acknowledged.

This report, a comparative content analysis of the Black press and US mainstream media, shows the ways that Black media have continued the tradition started by the Journal in a contemporary context.

Black media center the humanity of people who are often dehumanized by society and not given that by mainstream media, the report stated.

Also, Black media accurately call people killed by police brutality victims, sons and daughters. That thread of empathy and recognition of everyone’s humanity and dignity was first stitched in the Freedom’s Journal, the authors penned in the study.

Freedom’s Journal noted, “And while these important subjects shall occupy the columns of the Freedom’s Journal, we would not be unmindful of our brethren who are still in the iron fetters of bondage. They are our kindred by all the ties of nature; and though but little can be [affected] by us, still let our sympathies be poured forth, and our prayers in their behalf, ascend to Him who is able to succour them.”

The researchers concluded: “Black media were important in 1827, and they are just as critical today.”

Some of the highlights of the report

include: • Black media publishes, by a factor of as high as six times, more coverage than mainstream media on issues of importance to Black communities, including racism, health disparities, and voting access.

• Nearly one in every four (23 percent) articles in Black media mentioned racism or related issues, as compared with less than one in ten articles (8 percent) in mainstream media.

• Within coronavirus coverage, Black media wrote five times more than mainstream media on the disproportionate racial impact of the pandemic, and nearly twice as much as mainstream media on frontline and essential workers.

• Black media covered a variety of health issues of particular relevance to Black communities at higher levels than mainstream media, including maternal health, hypertension, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and sickle cell disease.

• The issue of voting access was included in 12 percent of all politics stories in Black media, which is more than twice the percentage for mainstream media (5 percent).

• Black media leads the way on stories related to racism, putting focus on these stories at higher levels and earlier in the news cycle than mainstream media.

• Black media centers the community in coverage and humanizes the individuals and groups in the news.

• Black media used the word “Black” frequently in coverage, in an explicit naming of Black people and communities in reporting the news. The word “Black” was consistently in the most frequently used 100 words across various topics, and in many cases was uniquely prevalent when compared with the top words used by mainstream media.

• Black media consistently had certain social identities emphasized for a variety of topics – community, family, women, and children foremost among them. Mainstream media did not use these words with similar frequency.

• Black media connects news events across subjects to cover wider issues of injustice, including threats to voting access, disparities in medical care, and policing and mass incarceration.

• Black media provides historical context to present day challenges. This is done by explicitly including historical events in related breaking news, as well as by linking related news events such as police killings of Black people.

Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill and Build Back Better Agenda are the essential remedies for decades of Tea Party and Trumpist neglect (TriceEdneyWire.com)—“These bills are about competitiveness versus complacency. They’re about opportunity versus decay. They’re about leading the world or continuing to let the world pass us by, which is literally happening. To support these investments is to create a rising America, America that’s moving. And to oppose these investments is to be complicit in America’s decline. To support these bills is to pursue a broader vision of our nation.

And to oppose them is to accept a very cramped view of our future.”—President Biden, October 5, 2021, Howell, Michigan.

Filibuster. Cloture. Reconciliation.

The chatter surrounding President Biden’s landmark infrastructure investment and Build Back Better agenda seems endlessly focused on the legislative process, on political maneuvering, on faceless numbers taken out of context.

What we’re not hearing enough about: parents desperately searching for child care only to encounter yearlong waiting lists and abrupt shutdowns due to understaffing. School children forced to do their homework in parking lots because they have no Internet access at home, and their school buildings are closed because they have no heat. Senior citizens who rely on Medicare skipping life-sustaining medications because they can’t afford their prescriptions. The millions of homes and businesses stranded without electricity because storms knocked out an inadequate and shoddily-maintained power grid.

Decades of neglect and failure to investment in America’s physical infrastructure and public institutions —a trend that accelerated when Tea Party members of Congress forced drastic cuts to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, and intensified during the Trump era—have left us with dilapidated schools and crumbling bridges. Childhood asthma linked to poor air quality causes 13.8

Marc H. Morial

To Be Equal million missed days of school annually. A water main breaks every two minutes, losing enough treated water each day to fill over 9,000 swimming pools. We’re the only developed country in the world that doesn’t mandate paid family leave, and our failure to invest in child care costs us $57 billion a year.

Black Americans have borne the brunt of this neglect. Income inequality grew at a faster rate during the Trump era than during any of the last five administrations. The typical Black family holds about $12.50 in wealth for every $100 held by the typical White family. The Black unemployment rate remains nearly twice the rate for Whites, and Black women are the least recovered from pandemic job losses.

The infrastructure investment and Build Back Better agenda—which largely incorporate the National Urban League’s Main Street Marshal Plan—represent a historic opportunity to transform our economy while enhancing racial equity.

There are five million fewer Americans working than in February 2020, and 2.7 million people have been out of work for six months or more, even as employers struggle to fill a record number of job openings. Taken together the infrastructure and budget reconciliation packages, could create 2 million jobs by mid-decade, according to Moody’s Analytics. Over the course of the 10-year budgeting window, the combined legislation would provide fiscal support for more than 4 million jobs per year, according to the Economic Policy Institute.

In fact, Moody’s found that the educational provisions of the legislation —universal pre-K, two years of free community college, expanded Pell Grants and other education benefits —would boost the economy beyond the 10-year budget window “given greater educational attainment and higher labor force participation.”

The two initiatives would invest about $4.1 trillion in America’s physical and human infrastructure over the last 10 years—almost exactly what the Main Street Marshall Plan called for. To put this number into perspective, the cost of the War on Terror since September 11, 2001, is about $8 trillion. The reckless 2017 Trump tax code revisions—which every Republican Senator and all but a dozen Republican House members eagerly supported—carried a $2.3 trillion price tag. What’s more, while the tax code revisions were enacted without a plan to pay for them, the infrastructure and Build Back Better plan would be funded by tax hikes on the wealthy, tougher tax enforcement and other revenue raisers. A modest tax hike on the wealthiest 0.05 percent of Americans alone would bring in at least $3 trillion in revenue over 10 years.

The post-World War II Marshall Plan spurred the fastest period of growth in European history. Industrial and agricultural production skyrocketed. The poverty and starvation of the immediate postwar years disappeared, and Western Europe embarked upon an unprecedented two decades of growth that saw standards of living increase dramatically. We have not only the opportunity but the moral obligation to replicate that success in 21st Century United States.

So when you hear politicians and talking heads opining about Senate and House procedures and legislative vehicles, know what’s really at stake: the future of you, your family, our community and the nation. It’s time to Build Back Better.

B4 OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

What happens to Atlanta if the wealthy leaves and creates a new city?

(TriceEdneyWire.com)—In an attempt to increase the White population and maintain White political control, the city of Atlanta expanded its borders northward to include the once rural area called Bulkhead. This successful annexation was made in 1952 under Mayor William Hartfield’s “Plan of Improvement”. Today, Atlanta is a far different municipality. The Bulkhead district has grown to become the wealthiest area in the city with its chic homes, luxurious shops, high-end restaurants and elaborate mansions. But residents in this predominately White enclave are frustrated, angry and scared. Earlier this year, Georgia state lawmakers introduced legislation that would give residents the opportunity to vote on making Bulkhead its own separate city. The idea to secede is not new. “Bulkhead City” has become a topic of discussion for years, but the city’s recent increase in crime has caused efforts for cityhood to gain serious momentum. For decades, the affluent Bulkhead district has been one of the safest areas in Atlanta. Since 2019, it has seen a sizable increase in the number of murders, shootings, robberies, carjackings and street racing. 2020 was the deadliest year in more than two decades for the city as a whole. When asked about secession, Bulkhead residents will also point to the decrease in the quality of services, the heavy tax burden, City Hall corruption, struggling schools and zoning disputes.

These are valid quality of life concerns, but what about the overall consequences? The city could possibly face a net fiscal loss estimated between $80 million to $116 million annually. As for the schools, the Atlanta Public Scholl system is expected to lose approximately $232 million per

David W. Marshall

Commentary year. And when we speak about consequences, do we forget the predominately Black neighborhoods on Atlanta’s Southside? They too are frustrated, angry and scared. Some residents say the secession plans are not racial. Already, there are those nationally who, with racial overtones, believe “Atlanta needs Bulkhead, Bulkhead does not need Atlanta”. Such statements show they still don’t get it. You have to have a willingness to sincerely care and to invest in people. Ironically, it was a native Atlantan who went through great pains to explain it. In 1963, Martin Luther King wrote a letter from a Birmingham jail cell. He was responding to White clergymen who questioned why he left Atlanta to cause “good trouble” in Birmingham. The answer he gave them is the same response that should be given to people everywhere who have little sense of unity when it comes to joining together diverse communities who share the same common interests. In this case, crime.

Dr. King wrote, “Moreover, I am cognizant of the interrelatedness of all communities and states. I cannot sit idly by in Atlanta and not be concerned about what happens in Birmingham”. He continued by saying, “we are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality (support), tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly”. In others words, the wealthy in general cannot sit idly by and not be concerned with those who are stuck in poverty. Regardless of race, economic class or zip code, diverse communities are interconnected to one another. The issues impacting those living in the poorest areas of Atlanta will eventually affect those living in wealthy Bulkhead. He makes it very clear that it is an inescapable network. Bulkhead cannot run from it. It is inevitable. The success of one is tied to the success of the other. The misery of one is tied to the misery of the other.

To say that Bulkhead does not need Atlanta is not true. “Bulkhead City” would be a self-inflicted disaster because the root causes of their problem will still remain. In his letter, Dr. King spoke about how to address the problem. He stated, “I am sure that none of you would want to rest content with the superficial kind of social analysis that deals merely with effects and does not grapple with underlying causes”. It is the grappling with underlying (root) causes that brings a person out of their comfort zone when choosing community interests over self-interests.

Since crime is the problem, what are the underlying (root) causes of crime? Poverty, a sense of hopelessness, self-hate and a sea of despair. More police is nice, but Bulkhead truly needs Southside Atlanta to overcome its poverty. This means the wealthy using their business and political influence to support polices that will close the income gap between the rich and poor. It means the wealthy (of all races) fighting in the trenches to achieve livable wages, affordable housing, eliminating food deserts, fighting the social impact of mental illness and drug addiction. It means the wealthy working hand in hand with nonprofits who effectively uplift and inspire our youth who are traumatized by living in war zones. A network of support should include churches (of all race) working in the trenches together to fulfill the spiritual development and character building for the most vulnerable and marginalized children and adults. It is a network of support, but the network is often undermined by elected and governmental officials (of all races) who place self over community.

People are watching Atlanta’s next move. If secession happens, others nationwide will have no shame in using the “Bulkhead City” blueprint for division elsewhere.

(David W. Marshall is founder of the faith based organization, TRB: The Reconciled Body, and author of the book “God Bless Our Divided America”. He can be reached at www.davidwmarshallauthor.com)

FORUM

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Are vaccine mandates racist by definition?

Last week, I wrote about how the CDC changed their definition of vaccine. Many called the changes Orwellian. Of course, that’s a reference to a novel where the dictionary was rewritten in order to manipulate public opinion. The definition of racism also continues to change. During the George Floyd riots, the Merriam-Webster Dictionary changed its definition of racism because of a complaint.

A Black graduate student at Drake University told CNN she grew tired of having conversations about racial injustice, just to have people point to the dictionary as a defense for why they are not racist. She said, “I kept having to tell them that the definition is not representative of what is actually happening in the world.”

To rectify the problem, the editors of the Merriam-Webster Dictionary decided to add “systemic oppression” to their definition of racism.

The dictionary editors were most likely influenced by the writing of Dr. Ibram X. Kendi. Over the past few years, Dr. Kendi has made his own contribution to redefining racism. Dr. Kendi defines racism as a collection of racist policies that lead to racial inequality, that are substantiated by racist ideas.

Dr. Kendi believes racial inequity is evidence of racial policy.

For example, Black residents were

J. Pharoah Doss

Check It Out stopped and frisked at a disproportional rate under New York mayors Giuliani and Bloomberg.

According to Dr. Kendi, it didn’t matter what the Stop & Frisk policy intended or if the policy achieved any of its stated goals, the disproportion alone made Stop & Frisk a racist policy that needed to be eliminated. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary will probably use Stop & Frisk as an example of systemic oppression.

Now, there’s another New York policy in question—The Vaccine Passport.

Last month, New York began to enforce their vaccine requirement for workers and customers. Proof of vaccination is required for people entering restaurants, bars, fitness centers and theaters.

The first thing most people questioned was the constitutionality of the mandate, but Black Lives Matter New York denounced the vaccine requirement as an excuse to exclude Black people from restaurants, bars and entertainment

venues.

This may be an overstatement by BLM, but a lot of Black people choose to remain unvaccinated, therefore the mandate will have a disproportional effect on Black residents in New York City. According to Dr. Kendi, racial inequity is evidence of racial policy, which means by definition the Vaccine Passport is a systemically racist policy, regardless of its good intentions.

However, when Dr. Kendi was asked directly if the vaccine mandate was a racist policy, he said it was hard to say.

Then he said the actual problem wasn’t the vaccine mandate. He claimed Black vaccination rates were low due to the lack of accessibility to the vaccine while Whites remained unvaccinated as a result of their political ideology.

The lack of accessibility isn’t true, but let’s suppose it was.

The vaccine mandate would still disproportionately affect Black residents and the disproportion alone makes the vaccine mandate a racist policy. That’s according to Dr. Kendi’s own definition.

So, why was it hard for him to say the vaccine mandate was a racist policy?

The fact is, it wasn’t hard for him to say, it’s hard for him to admit that his redefining of racism is incoherent and it actually leads to more confusion than clarity.

Why I went to jail on October 5 (TriceEdneyWire..com)—Sometimes friends have to hold friends accountable.

That’s why I got arrested outside the White House on Oct. 5. I was there with other civil rights and religious leaders to call on President Joe Biden to do more to protect voting rights that are under attack.

We know that President Biden supports voting rights. He has called anti-voting laws being passed by Republican state legislators the biggest threat to our democracy since the Civil War. We need him to act like he truly believes those words.

We need a federal voting rights law passed this year. More states are enacting voter suppression. They are abusing the redistricting process to rig future elections and give Republicans more power than they would win in a fair system. They want to shut Democrats out of power in 2022 and 2024. They want to stop progress that millions of Americans voted for when we put President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris in the White House—and mobilized to elect Georgia Sens. Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff.

We have seen this before. When Black people and their allies won political power after the Civil War, White supremacists used violence and illegitimate power to reverse that progress. State-level voter suppression was a core tactic of Jim Crow. The solution then, and the solution today, is strong federal voting rights legislation that will override those state laws and prevent new ones from taking effect.

The good news is that the legislation has been written. It has passed the House of Representatives and it has the

Ben Jealous

Commentary support of every Democratic senator. If it gets to the White House, President Biden will sign it.

That bad news is that Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and his Republican colleagues are using Senate filibuster rules to keep voting rights from coming up for a vote. This is 2021, not 1921. President Biden and Senate Democrats cannot let McConnell have the final word on voting rights in this country.

In the 1960s, President Lyndon Johnson did not choose between civil rights and his anti-poverty agenda.

He knew the country needed both and he used his mastery of the Senate to get both passed. That’s what we need from President Biden, who has more experience in the Senate than any president since Johnson. The infrastructure bill is vitally important. So is the Build Back Better agenda. But we need the White House to devote the same level of urgency to the infrastructure of our democracy.

President Biden must lead Senate Democrats in passing voting rights this year—and getting rid of the filibuster if it stands in the way.

We need strong, effective moral leadership both inside and outside the White House at this moment. The civil rights

movement of the 1950s and 1960s was a moral movement. It called on Americans to live up to their own ideals as well as to the promises in our founding documents. It brought the public pressure that compelled LBJ to use the powers of his office to pass civil rights and voting rights legislation.

I was proud to stand outside the White House with so many religious leaders: a Catholic nun representing thousands of her sisters; a Jewish rabbi in whose organization’s office the original Voting Rights Act was drafted; Black Baptist and AME clergy taking their place in the Black church’s long legacy of working for justice. We were joined by representatives of secular social justice and voting rights organizations.

Rev. Timothy McDonald, who pastored in Martin Luther King’s church and who serves as the co-chair of People For the American Way, the organization I lead, led us in singing and prayer and brought powerful words of truth.

I choked up a bit with gratitude for their leadership, and with gratitude for all the members of the movement, including members of my own family, who risked their lives over the years to secure the right to vote for all Americans.

Before I was arrested and spent the night in jail, I delivered a message to President Biden: When the president of the League of Women Voters is willing to risk arrest, when pastors in Dr. King’s lineage are willing to risk arrest, when Catholic nuns are willing to risk arrest to call you to fulfill your promise to make voting rights a top priority, it is time to examine your moral conscience.

(Ben Jealous serves as president of People For the American Way.)

Successful Black American-owned business leaders unfairly targeted (NNPA)—There is an old African proverb that captures one of the challenges that too many financially successful Black-owned business leaders face today in America. That proverb is “Your earned riches may engender envy and jealous criticism but be not dismayed by the foolishness of the envious.”

Across the nation as business owners are attempting to recover from the COVID-19 global pandemic, African American business leaders who are defying the odds with their financial success are often targeted by “mainstream media” and others who summarily and unfairly castigate Black business leaders’ economic achievements. Is this syndrome racially motivated? The simple answer is “Yes.” Former Congressman and past leader of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), The Honorable Parren J. Mitchell (D-MD), 1922-2007, once said in defense of Black business leaders, “There is a national systematic campaign to unfairly subjugate and to prevent the financial success of Black American businesses.”

It appears that business leaders from communities of color in the United States are being held to a different standard of business practice, ethics, and regulation.

Such is the case, I believe, with respect to Jack Brown III who was recently targeted for business practice criticisms by the New York Times because of what they state are personal financial profits that Mr. Brown has earned as result of

Benjamin F. Chavis Jr.

Commentary his businesses providing shelters to New York City’s homeless.

The Times emphasized, “Since 2017, as homelessness has risen to record levels, the city has awarded more than $352 million to a nonprofit run by Mr. Brown to operate shelters. The money is meant to help homeless people regain their footing in life, but it has benefited Mr. Brown, too.”

Is the Times implying that there is something wrong or unethical for earning a financial profit from ones work and business? Brown’s CORE Services companies—non-profits and for-profits— have worked effectively in New York for over a decade.

Both nonprofits and for-profits have to be run as successful businesses in order to be sustainable. Jack Brown has been a national leader in multiple Blackowned businesses not only in NYC, but also in other cities he has been effective in providing much need services to the homeless and to people “returning” back to society after prison incarceration.

Investigative journalism has its rightful

and respected space in our democracy.

But it should always be balanced and non-racially prejudicial. The Times piece on Jack Brown was full of unsubstantiated innuendo and one-sided reporting.

Those of us in America’s Black press are fully aware of the double standards and the racial stereotyping that cast unfair dispersions on Black entrepreneurs who dare to strive to own legitimate multi-million-dollar businesses.

After the Times feature on Brown was published, Rudy Giuliani, who is well known for his unprincipled attacks on African American leaders, joined in the chorus against Jack Brown.

I conclude with the following tweet that I posted: “It is questionable to see Rudy Giuliani and the NY Times aligned. But today the Times published an innuendo-filled story targeting successful Blackowned business leader, Jack Brown, who Rudy Giuliani then calls Brown a ‘poverty pimp.’

Sadly, Former President Trump, Giuliani, some in the NY Times, and many others take the position that there are limits and ceilings both politically and economically across the nation that are categorically prescribed by race. We do not agree. We will not submit. The unfair targeting of Black business leaders must be stopped in America.

(Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. is President and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) and can be reached at dr.bchavis@nnpa.org)

New Pittsburgh Courier

CLASSIFIED

B5

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

www.newpittsburghcourier.com

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

MULTI IT RELATED POSITIONS w/National Placement out of Allegheny County, PA. Must be able to relo to multi unanticipated sites when req’d.

All degrees &/or exp must be in either Comps, Info Sys’s, Eng’g, Mangmnt, Business or IT related field. Any suit combo of educ, training or exp acceptable. Req’d skills for each job below: Junior Software Developers (.NET): Salary $81,640/yr. Req’s Bach’s & 1Yr exp nly. Must have skills in either, .NET; VB.NET or ASP.NET. Ref# JNET-1020.

Software Developers (.NET): Salary $112,611/yr. Req’s Bach’s & 5Yrs exp OR Mast’s & 1Yr exp.. Must have skills in either, .NET; VB.NET or ASP.NET. Ref# JNET-1020 All positions FT/Perm 9-5, 40 hrs/ wk. Use Ref# & send resume to HR, Galax-Esystems Corporation, One Oxford Centre, 301 Grant Street, Ste. 4300, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 or hr@galaxesystems.com.

Galax-Esystems Corporation is EOE M/F/V/D.

COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST P o r t A u th o r i ty i s seeki ng a Communications Specialist to works as part of the Communications team that develops, plans, creates, and executes an assort of communications campaigns. Under general direction, the Communications Specialist will be responsible for helping to execute the vision of the Public Relations Department and Chief Executive Officer.

Essential Functions: •Writes and edits various marketing materials, including press releases, newsletter stories, social media posts, e-mail marketing campaigns, website, brochures, and other materials as needed.

•Assists with researching, writing, and capturing engaging content for the Authority’s social platforms.

•Supports online communications such as Facebook posts and other social media, e-newsletters, and public relations activity •Helps develop and/or design marketing materials such as online fliers promoting upcoming events, post cards, and other digital and print collateral that require photos, logos, design elements and/or customized templates to assist the department in marketing events and programs.

Job requirements include: •Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Communications, Marketing. or related field from an accredited school. Directly related experience may be substituted for education on a year-for-year basis.

•Minimum of one year of experience in journalism, communications, public relations, or related environment.

•Minimum of 1 year of experience in the use of social media in a professional setting.

•Demonstrated ability in the use of Microsoft Windows, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

•Excellent oral and written communication skills.

•Ability to manage time and workload effectively, including planning, organizing, and prioritizing with attention to detail.

Preferred attributes: •Working knowledge of Adobe products, including InDesign and Photoshop.

•In-house PR or agency experience.

•Public transit experience.

SOFTWARE ENGINEER Aurora Innovation, Inc. seeks Software Engineer in Pittsburgh, PA to develop maps for autonomous vehicles. Mail resumes to Mary Ellen Mahoney: 50 33rd Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15201 APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANT HM Health Solutions Inc. seeks Application Development Consultant in Pittsburgh, PA responsible for analyzing, designing, coding, testing, & implementing app. enhancements w/no supervision. Other duties incl.: providing tech. oversight to but not supervising work of sys. analysts & programmers; & formulating & defining complex system scope & objectives for assigned projects. Apply at https://careers.highmarkhealth.org, using keyword J187540.

COURIER Port Authority is seeking a Courier to sort and deliver incoming mail including facsimile transmissions received at designated central machines and miscellaneous office supplies to appropriate locations/departments; to prepare outgoing mail for delivery, and to maintain related account balances and necessary supply levels for the smooth daily operation of the mailroom.

Essential Functions: •Collects, sorts, prepares and distributes mail and parcels, including delivery of certified mail to employees and ensure that appropriate signature is received.

•Drives mail vehicle to designated location mail stops to delivery and collect mail, miscellaneous supplies and parcels.

•Downloads money electronically to the postage machine. Maintain log of postage use.

•Delivers paychecks to all garage locations.

Job requirements include: •High School Diploma or GED. •Demonstrated ability in the use of Windows.

•Valid PA driver’s license.

•Must be able to obtain bus-way qualification and keep abreast of bus-way regulations.

•Ability to sort and file in alphabetical and numeric systems.

•Ability to learn routes.

•Ability to read names and addresses.

•Ability to retain and apply a sequence of instructions.

•Basic mathematical skills.

•Good organizational skills.

•Effective and professional communications skills.

•Must adhere to Port Authority’s Dress Code Policy.

We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Interested candidates should forward a cover letter (with salary requirements) and resume to: Glenn Huetter Employment Department 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 GHuetter@portauthority.org EOE SOUTH FAYETTE TWP. SCHOOL DISTRICT is seeking MULTIPLE SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS for the 2021-2022 school year.

Complete job descriptions and directions on how to apply are available at: www.southfayette.org Deadlines 4:00 PM, October 18, 2021 Elementary School Long-Term Substitute Teacher High School English Substitute Teacher High School Spanish Substitute Teacher High School Technology & Engineering Substitute Teacher

COURIER CLASSIFIEDS

We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Interested candidates should forward a cover letter (with salary requirements) and resume to: Missy Ramsey Employment Department 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 MRamsey@portauthority.org EOE MARKETING MANAGER UNITED WAY OF SOUTHWESTERN PENNSYLVANIA PITTSBURGH OFFICE We are searching for a Marketing Manager to support communication efforts to reach current and potential supporters. This dynamic, digitally savvy professional will be responsible for implementing and managing marketing communication activities to drive greater understanding and visibility of our work in the community. The ideal candidate will be comfortable wearing multiple “hats”, efficiently performing different marketing functions including managing email campaigns, reporting and analytics, social media management, project management of quarterly newsletters, collateral development and more.

They will be highly organized, energetic, self-motivated, detail oriented and possess the ability to multi-task in a fast paced, team-oriented environment.

They will take a proactive approach to achieving goals and be able to work independently.

Require BS or BA degree in marketing, communications, or related field.

Prefer 3+ years in communication, marketing, or project management role.

Visit our website at https://uwswpa.org/careers/ to view job description and apply for this position. Submissions will only be accepted electronically.

The United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer committed to workplace diversity, serving Allegheny, Butler, Westmoreland, Fayette, and Armstrong counties.

URBAN ACADEMY OF GREATER PITTSBURGH CHARTER SCHOOL Is seeking the following positions: Black Studies Teacher Co-Teachers Intervention/Enrichment Support to receive the complete job descriptions, view at jobs@urbanacademypgh.org Please submit ALL clearances, resume and references to: 437 Turrett Street Pgh, PA 15206.

No phone calls please.

COURIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS

SONNY BOY

1 0 5

9 6 2

3 7 8

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

SECTION MANAGER OF PLANNING Port Authority is seeking a Section Manager of Planning to oversee planning priorities and activities within the Planning and Service Development Department. Advances the priorities of the long-range plan through corridor and place-based planning projects, and policy and program development. Assists the Director of Planning and Service Development with Departmental tasks, presentations, and strategic direction. Manages the Planning staff team.

Essential Functions: •Manages the daily activities of the Planning Section of the Department. Establishes and aligns departmental and individual goals and objectives with corporate goals.

Evaluates performance and promotes growth through mentoring and development.

•Works with Planning and Service Development Management team to ensure collaboration across teams within the Department and looks for opportunities for efficiency of work efforts.

•Directs and evaluates studies of major transit corridor and place-based (transit-oriented community) investments, which include, but are not limited to, analysis of alternatives, environmental analysis and community interface, and development of public consensus for these investments.

Works with the Senior Director to prioritize these projects based on the Strategic and Long-Range Plans and acquire grant funding to support said projects.

Job requirements include: •BS Degree in Planning, Community Development, Transportation, Public Policy or directly related field from an accredited school. Directly related experience may substitute for education.

•Minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in Planning. Experience may be substituted by advanced education on a year for year basis.

•Minimum of two (2) years of supervisory experience.

•Demonstrated ability to develop/ interpret statistical/analytical studies, and to describe this information orally and in writing.

•Demonstrated ability to draft work plans and projects for internal staff or consultants to carry out.

•Demonstrated ability to effectively present planning project information to Senior-level audiences such as Senior Staff or the Authority’s Board.

•Demonstrated ability in the use of modern office software such as the Microsoft Office package.

•Understanding of the principles of GIS and other transportation planning applications.

Preferred attributes: •Masters’ Degree in Urban Planning, Community Development, Public Policy, Public Affairs, Transportation Planning or related field from an accredited school.

•Active AICP Certified Planner credential.

•Two (2) years of supervisory experience.

•Experience with traffic engineering.

PROJECT AND BUDGET ANALYST – SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGY SERVICES Port Authority is seeking a Project And Budget Analyst -Systems Technology Services to coordinate procurement and management of technology services along with associated invoicing and budgeting.

Work with internal customers to write specification documents, manage timelines for procurement processes (Bids and RFPs), track deliveries and process invoices. Work extensively with both Finance and Procurement personnel on managing budgets and procurements.

Coordinate people and processes to ensure that projects are delivered on time and produce the desired results.

Provide organization, timeline & deadline management, task coordination, and progress reporting toward successful and timely completion of projects.

Essential Functions: •Manage purchasing processes for information technology services and equipment, including RFPs, RFQs, Bids, work orders, and invoices; ensuring adherence to all federal and state procurement regulations and Port Authority processes.

•Lead tracking and timeline of information technology bid and service renewals, ensuring that bids and RFP’s are prepared and released in a timely manner.

•Track budgets for technology lines of business and provide recommendations for future budget adjustments and requests.

•With stakeholders, establish purchasing and project definition including specifications, scope, schedule, tasks, and costs.

Job requirements include: •BA/BS Degree in Business Administration, Finance, Information Technology, Computer Science, Data Analytics, or directly related field from an accredited school. Directly related experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis.

•Strong analytical and problem solving skills.

•Highly effective and professional communication skills with a customer-centric mindset.

•Excellent writing skills.

•Minimum 2 years of experience writing Bid and RFP specifications, preferably with technology-centric requirements.

•Excellent organizational skills.

•Proven fiscal management skills.

•Proven experience in vendor coordination.

•Customer-centric approach to both use of technology services for internal optimization and ultimate end-result for patrons.

•Demonstrated ability in the use of Windows, Microsoft Word and Excel.

Preferred attributes: •Project Management certification.

•Process improvement experience.

•Experience evaluating, implementing, configuring, and managing information technology systems and services, or related technical and application management experience.

•Experience leading projects from a coordination, analysis, definition, implementation and training perspective.

•Demonstrated ability in the use of project management methodologies and software for tracking tasks and outcomes.

•Experience managing RFP and Bid processes in the government sector.

We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Interested candidates should forward a cover letter (with salary requirements) and resume to: Amy Giammanco Employment Department 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 AGiammanco@portauthority.org EOE

America’s Best Weekly 315 East Carson Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219

Classifieds

We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Interested candidates should forward a cover letter (with salary requirements) and resume to: Danielle Jacobson Employment Department 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 DJacobson@portauthority.org EOE

412-481-8302 Ext. 140

CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS!

Deadline/Closing/Cancellation Schedule for copy, corrections, and cancellations: Friday noon preceding Wednesday publication

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS!

E-mail: ads@newpittsburghcourier.com

To place a display ad in the New Pittsburgh Courier call 412-481-8302 ext. 128 or 129

LEGAL ADVERTISING Legal Notices

Estate of BRIAN L. MCALISTER, Deceased of Moon Township, Pennsylvania, Estate No. 02-21-06711 ,Jamie McAlister, Executor, or to Travis J. Dunn, Atty, 6 Clairton Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15236 Estate of MARIAN N. MOONEY, Deceased of Franklin Park Borough, PA, Estate No. 4460 of 2020 ,Regena McKinney, Admrx., 473 Hooker Road, West Sunbury, PA 16061, or to Michael J. Witherel, Esq., Witherel & Associates, 966 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh, PA 15237 Estate of STANLEY R. CLARK, Deceased of Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Estate No. 02-21-07101 ,Mary L. Clark, Administrator., 656 Oxford Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA 15243, or to Aubrey H. Glover, Atty; BRENLOVE & FULLER, LLC., 401 Washington Avenue, Bridgeville, PA 15017 Estate of KAREN GERALDINE HARRIS A/K/A KAREN HARRIS, Deceased of 8013 Lawrence Drive, Bethel Park, PA 15102, Estate No. 02-21-05776 , Executrix: Kelly L. Quinlan, 150 Brookhaven Road, Summerville, SC 29486, or to American Wills & Estates, Lloyd A. Weilling, Esquire, 2100 Wharton Street, Suite 302, Birmingham Towers, Pittsburgh, PA 15203 Estate of CAROLYN JEAN SOERGEL A/K/A C. JEAN SOERGEL, Deceased of Franklin Park, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Estate No. 02-21-07144 ,Randy E. Soergel, Executor, 2561 A. Brandt School Road, Wexford, PA 15090, or to Todd A. Fuller, Atty; BRENLOVE & FULLER, LLC., 401 Washington Avenue, Bridgeville, PA 15017 Estate of MARY ANN MICHAELS A/K/A MARY MICHAELS A/K/A MARY A. MICHAELS, Deceased of 4754 Rolling Hills Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15102, Estate No. 02-21-06192 , Co-Executors: Mrs. Allison E. Parker, 14660 Rudolph Dadey Drive, Charlotte, NC 28277, Mr. Joseph B. Michaels, 1046 Ravine Street, Munhall, PA 15120, or to American Wills & Estates, Lloyd A. Weilling, Esquire, 2100 Wharton Street, Suite 302, Birmingham Towers, Pittsburgh, PA 15203 Estate of BARBARA A. SCHAMBERG, Deceased of South Fayette Township, Pennsylvania, Estate No.: 02-21-07447, Joanne C. Kramer, Executor or to Travis J. Dunn, Atty, 6 Clairton Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15236 Estate of JAMES E. ZANOS, Deceased of Upper St. Clair, Pennsylvania, Estate No. 02-21-07060, Nicole Conaway, Executor, or to Travis J. Dunn, Atty, 6 Clairton Blvd.

Pittsburgh, PA 15236 Estate of ALEX MANCULICH, Deceased of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Estate No. 02-21-07484, Paul Manculich, Administrator, or to Travis J. Dunn, Atty, 6 Clairton Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15236

LEGAL ADVERTISING Articles of Incorporation

ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION BUSINESS CORPORATION

Notice is hereby given that Articles of Incorporation were filed with the Department of State of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, for a business corporation which has been incorporated under the provisions of the Business Corporation Law of 1988. The name of the corporation is HOMEMADE PGH, INC.

LEGAL ADVERTISING Meeting Announcements

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) will host a public meeting on October 15, 2021, to present the results of an investigation into a variety of concerns regarding the upkeep of Low-Income Public Housing communities, as raised by several of our residents in recent articles published in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Meeting information is as follows: Date/Time: Friday, October 15, 2021, 10 – 11 am Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/ j/99506625616?pwd=YndVN2VWWUVyMmxGWHNpdkUvU1JXZz09 MeetingAccess: (ID:99506625616, passcode: D1EcSH0F) Join by phone: (US) +1 312-626-6799 (passcode: 49656256) THE ALLEGHENY REGIONAL ASSET DISTRICT PUBLIC COMMENT HEARING The Allegheny Regional Asset District (RAD) Board will hold a hearing for public comment on its 2022 preliminary budget on October 26, 2021 at 2:30pm via Zoom (Webinar ID: 884 1620 2162). The Board’s final meeting of 2021 will be held November 30, 2021 at 3pm via Zoom (Webinar ID: 999 4870 7598).

For public participation procedures and meeting details, visit radworkshere.org or call 412-227-1900.

COURIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS!

CLASSIFIEDS

B6 OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

LEGAL ADVERTISING

LEGAL ADVERTISING

Bids/Proposals

Bids/Proposals

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS The Allegheny County Department of Human Services recently issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Design, Content and Digital Strategy: Fall 2021. Due Date: 3 p.m. Eastern Time on Monday, November 15, 2021.

For more details and submission information, visit: www.alleghenycounty.us/Human -Services/Resources/Doing-Business/ Solicitations-(RFP/RFQ/RFI).aspx.

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH INVITATION FOR BID (IFB) FOR NORTHVIEW HEIGHTS 4 BUILDING ROOF REPLACEMENT – AMP-09 HACP IFB NO. 600-31-21 THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH will receive sealed bids for the Northview Heights 4 Building Roof Replacement – AMP 09 The construction work is estimated to begin in February of 2022.

Bid Documents will be available on or about Monday, October 11, 2021 and may be obtained from the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh’s webpage, www.hacp.org.

Bidders may register on the website and download the bid documents free of charge. Electronic versions of the Bid Documents, including bid forms, project manual, and drawings can be picked up in person, (by appointment) Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 100 Ross Street, Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Steve Graziani, Project Manager 412-320-6080 A Pre-Bid Conference and Site Visit will be held on Thursday, October 21, 2021 at 10:00 a.m: Northview Heights 533 Mt. Pleasant Rd Pittsburgh, PA 15214 Bidders shall come prepared to review all aspects of the construction site necessary to prepare a bid.

Bids will be received at: HACP Procurement Department 100 Ross Street, Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Attn: Kim Detrick, Director of Procurement until 10:00 a.m. November 11, 2021 at which time and place all bids will be received.

HACP will also accept online submissions for this Invitation for Bid in addition to accepting submissions at our Ross Street office. For respondents wishing to submit online, please access the instructions provided in the project manual to submit the bid digitally. In addition to the electronic submittal above, The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will only be accepting physical bids dropped off in person from 8:00 AM until the bid opening time of 10:00 AM on November 11, 2021 in the lobby of 100 Ross St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Sealed bids may still be mailed via USPS at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. All bids must be received at the above address no later than November 11, 2021 at 10:00 a.m., regardless of the selected delivery mechanism. THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH reserves the right to waive any informality in, or reject any and all bids. No bid shall be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days subsequent to the opening of bids without the consent of the HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH. The Contractor will be required to comply with all applicable Equal Employment Opportunity requirements for Federally Assisted Construction Contracts. The Contractor must ensure that employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sexual preference, handicap or national origin.

HACP has revised its website. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and log-in, in order to view and download IFB/ RFP documentation.

THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH S T R O N G LY E N C O U R A G E S CERTIFIED MINORITY-OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES AND W OMA N -OW N E D B U S IN E S S ENTERPRISES TO RESPOND TO THE SOLICITATION. Additional information may be obtained by contacting Kim Detrick, Director of Procurement at (412) 456-5116 Opt 1.

Erin Dalton Director OFFICIAL ADVERTISEMENT THE BOARD OF PUBLIC EDUCATION OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PITTSBURGH Sealed proposals shall be deposited at the Administration Building, Bellefield Entrance obby, South Bellefield Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pa., 15213, on November 2, 2021, until 2:00 P.M., local prevailing time for: Various Schools (Pittsburgh Brashear High School & Pittsburgh South Hills 6-8) Replace Electrical Distribution System General and Electrical Primes Project Manual and Drawings will be available for purchase on October 11, 2021, at Modern Reproductions (412488-7700), 127 McKean Street, Pittsburgh, Pa., 15219 between 9:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. The cost of the Project Manual Documents is non-refundable. Project details and dates are described in each project manual.

ALLEGHENY COUNTY SANITARY AUTHORITY LEGAL NOTICE CONTRACT NO. 1751 EMERGENCY SEWER TELEVISING CONTRACT 2022-2023 Sealed Bids for CONTRACT NO. 1751 – EMERGENCY SEWER TELEVISING CONTRACT 20222023 shall be received at the Engineering Department office of the Allegheny County Sanitary Authority, 3300 Preble Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15233, until 2:00 P.M., Prevailing Time, Tuesday, November 16, 2021 and then shall be publicly opened and read. A Pre-Bid Meeting will be held via a video conference call on Tuesday, October 26, 2021 at 2:00 P.M., Prevailing Time.

ALCOSAN encourages businesses owned and operated by minorities and women to submit bids on Authority Contracts or to participate as subcontractors or suppliers to successful Bidders. Successful Bidders are to use minority and women’s businesses to the fullest extent possible.

Contract Documents may be examined and obtained at the Engineering office of the Authority. A non refundable fee of One hundred dollars ($100) (no cash or credit cards will be accepted) will be charged for each set of Contract Documents received. Bid Security shall be furnished by providing with the Bid a ertified heck or Bid Bond in the amount of 10% of the Bid Price.

Contract documents must be purchased directly from ALCOSAN to qualify as an eligible bidder.

Any questions regarding the Technical Aspects of the Project should be directed to Joseph Sparbanie, Civil Engineer, ALCOSAN via email to joseph.sparbanie@alcosan.org .

Any questions regarding the Purchase of Contract Documents should be directed to Kathleen P. Uniatowski, ALCOSAN, via email to contract.clerks@alcosan.org .

The Authority reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to waive any informality in any bid and to accept any bid should it be deemed in the interest of the Authority to do so.

ALLEGHENY COUNTY SANITARY AUTHORITY Michael Lichte, P.E. Director of Regional Conveyance

America’s Best Weekly 315 East Carson Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219

Classifieds 412-481-8302 Ext. 140 E-mail: ads@newpittsburghcourier.com Deadline/Closing/Cancellation Schedule for copy, corrections, and

cancellations: Friday noon preceding Wednesday publication

COURIER CLASSIFIEDS… THE ONLY WAY TO GO!

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS!

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

SONNY BOY

LEGAL ADVERTISING

LEGAL ADVERTISING

LEGAL ADVERTISING

Bids/Proposals

Bids/Proposals

Bids/Proposals

The Courier isn’T jusT a newspaper.

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.

To place a display ad in the New Pittsburgh Courier call 412-481-8302 ext. 128 or 129 COURIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS!

COURIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS!

iT’s BLaCK

hisTorY.

Voters Guide Municipal Election November 2, 2021 Published by League of Women Voters of Greater Pittsburgh Community Information Center Koppers Building 436 Seventh Avenue Suite 350 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-261-4284 Prepared with Funding from League of Women Voters Education Fund Reproduction of this guide is made possible by the generous support of Laurel Foundation

New Pittsburgh Courier October 13-19, 2021

2

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

This Voters Guide was prepared by the League of Women Voters of Greater Pittsburgh and the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania Citizen Education Fund. The League is a non-partisan organization and does not endorse or oppose any political party or candidate. Its purpose is to promote political responsibility through informed and active participation of citizens in government.

The Voters Guide listings are based entirely on material submitted by the candidates. In cases in which questionnaires were not returned, only the candidate’s name and party are listed. Every candidate was asked to submit a photograph; those received are printed.

The guide lists all candidates in the November 2, 2021 Municipal election for Justices of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, Judges of the Superior Court, Judges of the Commonwealth Court, and Judges of the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas. Also listed are candidates for Allegheny County Sheriff, and Allegheny County Council candidates.

Also listed are candidates for the offices of Mayor of the City of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh City Council, and Pittsburgh School Board Directors. Judicial candidates running for retention are listed at the end of the ballot.

The candidate’s names are listed as they will appear on the ballot. The party of the governor is, by practice, given the first position on the ballot in Pennsylvania.

All registered voters, regardless of whether or not they are enrolled members of a polit-

VOTERS GUIDE 2021

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

League of Women Voters Guide To The

Municipal Election November 2, 2021 (Polls open from 7 AM to 8 PM) ical party, are entitled to vote for the Special Election Ballot questions.

Study the guide and choose the candidates for whom you want to vote. You may take the guide into the voting booth to help you. Nothing in this guide should be construed as an endorsement of any candidate by the League of Women Voters.

Voters who are not sure if they are registered to vote should call the county Department of Elections, 412-3504510. To find out what district you live in call the League of Women Voters Community Information Center, 412-2614284, Mon-Thurs 9-3pm.

Voting in a Municipal Election To vote in this municipal election you must have been registered by October 18, 2021.

Your registration is permanent if • You did not change your address.

• You did not change your name Prisoners’ Rights You are eligible to vote if you are awaiting trial.

If you are a prisoner in Pennsylvania, you are eligible to vote if

PENNSYLVANIA PENNSYLVANIA JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT TERM: 10 years SALARY: $215,037 Description of office: The Supreme Court of Pennsylvania is the highest court in the Commonwealth and the oldest appellate court in the nation.

The Supreme Court’s administrative powers and jurisdictional responsibilities are vested with the seven-member court by the Pennsylvania State Constitution and a collection of statutes known as the Judicial Code. The justice with the longest continuous service on the Supreme Court automatically becomes chief justice. Administratively, the courts within the Unified Judicial System are largely responsible for organizing their own staff and dockets; however, the Supreme Court has several committees and boards responsible for writing and enforcing rules for judges, attorneys, and litigants to

• You are registered properly.

• You have obtained an absentee ballot.

• You were convicted of a misdemeanor Identification Requirements for New Voters If you are a new voter or if you are voting at a polling place for the first time then you must bring your voter ID card or a photo ID such as a driver’s license, student ID or some other form of Federal or State government issued ID. Some forms of non-photo ID are also acceptable such as a firearm permit, current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, or government check. If you do not have any acceptable ID then you must be allowed to vote by provisional ballot.

Provisional Ballots If your right to vote is challenged at the polls on Election Day and the problem cannot be resolved at the polling place, the judge of elections at the polling place should telephone the County Board of Elections.

The problem could be resolved by phone if your name appears on the county records. If it does not and you want to try to resolve the problem, then you can go in person to the County Board of Elections where a

judge from the Court of Common Pleas will be on duty to resolve election problems. Alternatively, you can ask for and vote by provisional ballot.

If it is later determined that you were eligible to vote your ballot will be counted. You will be given instructions on how to determine if your vote was counted.

Mail-in Voting Voters have the option to vote by mail without providing any reason or excuse. To apply online, go to votespa.com. Or contact the county election office to request a paper application.

Applications for a mail-in ballot must be received by the County Elections Division by Tuesday October 26, 2021 at 4pm. Completed mail-in ballots must be received by the Elections Division by Tuesday November 2, 2021 at 8pm election day to be counted.

Absentee Voting Registered voters who are ill, disabled, or will be absent from the municipality on Election Day may vote by absentee ballot. Completed APPLICATIONS for absentee ballots must be received by the Allegheny County Elections Division by 5 P.M., Tuesday, October 26. Completed absentee

BALLOTS must be received back at the Elections Division by 5 P.M. on Tuesday, November 2, 2021. If an emergency arises (unexpected illness or business trip) after the Tuesday application deadline, call the Elections Division 412350-4520 for information on emergency absentee voting.

Proof of emergency may be required. An emergency application and ballot can be obtained and voted by 5 P.M. on Tuesday, November 2. Any disabled voter having questions regarding the accessibility of a polling place should consult the Elections Division at 412-350-4520.

Write-in Voting For write in voting information, check with the workers at your polling place before entering the voting booth.

Election Day Problems If your right to vote is challenged at the polls on Election Day and the problem cannot be resolved at the polling place, the judge of elections at the polling place may telephone the county Board of Elections.

The problem could be resolved by phone if your name appears on the county records. If it does not and you want to try to resolve the problem, then you will have to go in person to the county Board of Elections where a judge from the Court of Common Pleas will be on duty to resolve election problems.

Internet Voters Guide This Voters Guide and other useful information for voters can be found on the League’s web site at http://lwvpgh.org or can be found by going to www. vote411.org and typing in your address and zip code.

ensure an efficient and fair judicial review. Annual- Court by the PBA campaign website: http://judgemly, the seven justices receive over 3,000 requests for claughlin.com Facebook: http://@Maria4PASC appellate review.

Twitter: http://@McLaughlin4PASC Questions: DEMOCRATIC Q: What can you do, both on and off the bench, Vote for ONE. to ensure that all individuals have equal access to justice?

MARIA MCLAUGHLIN A: Along with being our highest appellate court, Party: Dem The Supreme Court overseas our statewide court Biographical Info: system and legal community. As such we have the County: Philadelphia opportunity to set rules, educate the legal commuOccupation: Superior Court nity and create special court programs dealing with Judge human services issues like substance abuse & menEducation: Penn State 1988. tal health challenges, veteran’s issues & initiatives Delaware Law School at Widener focused on autism. All geared toward providing fair University 1992 treatment and equal access for people with unique Qualifications: Current Judge MARIA MCLAUGHLIN circumstances. on our PA Superior Court; Served Q: What can you do, both on and off the bench, 6 years as Judge, Court of Comto ensure an equitable and fair court? mon Pleas; Chief and ADA, Phila District Attorneys A: As a lawyer & a judge I have always worked to Office; Rated Highly Recommended for the Supreme ensure everyone who comes into a courtroom has an

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

VOTERS GUIDE 2021

opportunity to be heard and the law applied without bias. This is the cornerstone of our legal system.

As a Justice I will not waiver from that driving principle. My work on the bench and in my life will always reflect my dedication to fairness and equality.

REPUBLICAN (Vote for One) KEVIN BROBSON Party: Rep Biographical Info: County: Dauphin Occupation: President Judge, Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court Education: Widener Commonwealth Law School, summa cum laude (2nd in class), Managing KEVIN BROBSON Editor Law Review; Lycoming College (B.A., Accounting/Economics), magna cum laude Qualifications: President Judge of the Pa. Commonwealth Court; over 11 years as statewide appellate court judge (elected 2009, retained 2019); Pa. Judicial Conduct Board, 2015-19 (Chair); 14 years’ private practice; former federal judicial clerk; “Highly Recommended” by Pa. Bar Association campaign website: http://www.brobsonforpa.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Kevin-Brobson-for-PA-112608997531221 Questions: Q: What can you do, both on and off the bench, to ensure that all individuals have equal access to justice?

A: I would work cooperatively with the governor and the legislature to increase funding for legal aid programs. While in private practice, I created a program in Dauphin County to expand pro bono opportunities for lawyers to provide services to nonprofit organizations. I would encourage county bar associations to think creatively about expanding pro bono service to small and minority-owned businesses and nonprofits. I want to ensure our courts have access to interpreters for parties with limited English proficiency. I would build upon the excellent work of Philadelphia Legal Assistance with respect to the representation of low-wage workers and the unemployed by engaging law schools and other legal aid associations throughout the state.

Q: What can you do, both on and off the bench, to ensure an equitable and fair court?

A: I believe I have earned a reputation as a fair and impartial arbiter of the law. I treat everyone who enters my courtroom, or has a matter before me, with equal respect and dignity. I strive to appreciate the perspectives and points of view of all parties. It is important to me that every litigant, represented and unrepresented, be given every opportunity, within the rules and the law, to present their case. Moreover, as a former Chair of the Pa. Judicial Conduct Board, I am keenly aware of how important it is to Pennsylvanians that our judges observe the highest ethical standards on and off the bench. I hold myself to this high standard. All Pennsylvanians deserve to have faith in a fair and impartial judiciary.

PENNSYLVANIA PENNSYLVANIA JUDGE OF THE SUPERIOR COURT

Description of office: The Superior Court is one of Pennsylvania’s two statewide intermediate appellate courts. This court, established in 1895, reviews most of the civil and criminal cases that are appealed from the Courts of Common Pleas in the Commonwealth’s 67 counties. The Superior Court consists of 15 judges. The president judge is elected to a five-year term by his/her colleagues. A large number of appeals flow to the Superior Court from the trial courts. Generally, appeals are heard by panels of three judges sitting in Philadelphia, Harrisburg, or Pittsburgh. The court often is the final arbiter of legal disputes. Although the Supreme Court may grant a petition for review of a Superior Court decision, most petitions are denied, and the ruling of the Superior Court stands.

TERM: 10 years

SALARY: $202,898

DEMOCRATIC (Vote for One) TIMIKA LANE Party: Dem Biographical Info: County: Philadelphia Occupation: Judge - Court of Common Pleas Education: West Catholic High School and went on to graduate Howard University in Washington TIMIKA LANE DC & received my Law Degree in 2002 from Rutgers University School of Law in NJ. Qualifications: Major Trials Judge presiding over 1000’s of trials, authoring 100’s of opinions. I handle all human trafficking cases & many of the most serious criminal cases & Grand Jury matters. Certified Child Advocate & as former Exec Dir of the Senate Govt Cmte advised on the constitutionality of legislation campaign website: http://www.judgelane.com Facebook: http://@LaneforSuperiorCourt Twitter: http://@JudgeTimikaLane Questions: Q: What can you do, both on and off the bench, to ensure that all individuals have equal access to justice?

A: As a sitting Judge, I ensure everyone in my courtroom is treated with dignity and respect regardless of race, gender, creed, religion, sexual orientation or socioeconomic status. As a member of the Access to Justice Committee, we address this issue by looking at possible barriers and how to remove those barriers to ensure everyone has equal access. As co-chair of the Local Criminal Rules Committee we recommend the qualifications for court appointed attorneys to make sure that indigent people have capable legal representation. We ensure that the local criminal rules are fair and applied equally to all who all who come before our courts.

Q: What can you do, both on and off the bench, to ensure an equitable and fair court?

A: The Superior Court is an error correcting court & often the last line of defense for the parties involved in a case. When reviewing an appeal It is vital the appellate judge have strong courtroom experience on both sides of the bench to best determine the if the proceedings in the lower court were fair, all parties were heard and the law has been applied fairly regardless of race, creed, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation or economic status. I will ensure equity and fairness in all cases before me, just as I do for all who appear in my current courtroom. Off the bench, I believe judges should be visible in the community. We are public servants and it is our duty to make sure

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

3

the public understands how the court system functions.

REPUBLICAN (Vote for One) MEGAN SULLIVAN Party: Rep Biographical Info: County: Chester Occupation: Attorney Education: Temple University Beasley School of Law, Juris Doctorate (cum laude) Saint Joseph’s University (B.A.) Qualifications: 20 years crimi- MEGAN SULLIVAN nal & civil law experience. Deputy Attorney General in PA Attorney General’s Office & Supervisory District Attorney, protected victims including the most vulnerable members of our society as a child abuse prosecutor. Asst. General Counsel at West Chester University and civil litigator. campaign website: http://www.megsullivanforjudge. com Facebook: http://@megforjudge Questions: Q: What can you do, both on and off the bench, to ensure that all individuals have equal access to justice?

A: I believe equal access to justice is essential to maintaining trust in our courts and our justice system’s legitimacy. I am committed to providing all individuals in my courtroom with equal access to justice by ensuring their voice is heard, their rights are protected, & that they are never subject to discrimination. I support efforts to enhance equal access to justice through legal aid programs that provide individuals with access to qualified attorneys. Providing interpreters for those individuals for whom English is a second language is also important. It is also important to give Individuals with disabilities full access to the courtroom. Everyone that comes before a judge should fully understand their constitutional rights.

Q: What can you do, both on and off the bench, to ensure an equitable and fair court?

A: I have a deep respect for our Constitution and our system of justice. I have spent a large part of my 20year career as an attorney helping others to navigate both the criminal and civil judicial system. I respect the system but understand why some fear it. Individuals who serve in the role of a judge must recognize that they are the arbiter of the rules and the process. This is a great power that requires objectivity, an innate sense of fairness, and humility. I possess these traits and am committed to delivering to all citizens a justice system that shows respect and fairness, as well as knowledgeable decision-making that takes into account the parties’ perspectives and applies the law objectively.

PENNSYLVANIA PENNSYLVANIA JUDGE OF THE COMMONWEALTH COURT Description of office: The Commonwealth Court is one of Pennsylvania’s two statewide intermediate appellate courts. This court, established in 1968, is unlike any other state court in the nation. Its jurisdiction generally is limited to legal matters involving state and local government and regulatory agencies. Litigation typically focuses on subjects such as banking, insurance, utility regulation, and laws affecting taxation, land use, elections, labor practic-

4 OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

VOTERS GUIDE 2021

es, and workers compensation. The Commonwealth Court also acts as a court of original jurisdiction, or a trial court, when lawsuits are filed by or against the Commonwealth. The Commonwealth Court is made up of nine judges. The president judge is elected to a five-year term by his/her colleagues. Generally, appeals are heard by panels of three judges sitting in Philadelphia, Harrisburg, or Pittsburgh.

TERM: 10 years

SALARY: $202,898

DEMOCRATIC (Vote for two) LORI A. DUMAS Party: Dem Biographical Info: County: Philadelphia Occupation: Judge Education: North Carolina Central School of Law; Duke University; Executive Certificates from Cornell University, (D&I); University of Pennsylvania, Fels InLORI A. DUMAS stitute of Government Qualifications: Trial Court Judge since 2002; Jury and Non-jury experience; Presided in Family, Criminal and Civil Divisions; Former Corporate Executive, Non-Profit Leader; Adjunct Professor; National Leader in trauma informed courts; Led the creation of victim centered juvenile human trafficking court in Phila. campaign website: http://www.judgedumas2021.com/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Judgedumas2021/ Twitter: http://Twitter.com/JudgeDumas Questions: Q: What can you do, both on and off the bench, to ensure that all individuals have equal access to justice?

A: As a judge, I must ensure that every person that comes before the Court has the opportunity to be heard. I must rule according to the law without losing sight of the ultimate goal of dispensing justice.

I must remove any obstacle which prevents equal access to justice by any means necessary. As a citizen, I can involve myself with organizations and in activities which seek to educate people about the Court, its processes and procedures and to equip them with the knowledge and power to to be able to use the legal system as an advocate for themselves and their interests.

Q: What can you do, both on and off the bench, to ensure an equitable and fair court?

A: Judges set the tone in their courtrooms. They must model fairness, civility, patience and impartiality and demand it from those in their presence.

In my courtroom, every voice will be heard and my decisions will be rooted in the law and cloaked in compassion and the urgency to do what is right. I must conduct a daily heart check to ensure that I am not bringing any biases with me that may interfere with my ability to render impartial decisions. I must call out injustice when it occurs...every time.

In the community, I can educate others about their rights and the status of the law. I should regularly attend implicit bias trainings and require my staff to do the same, to ensure that fairness is not just a mantra but embedded in my core.

DAVID LEE SPURGEON

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Party: Dem Biographical Info: County: Allegheny Occupation: Judge - Court of Common Pleas Education: McKeesport Area Senior High Duquesne University - B.A. Duquesne University School of Law - Juris Doctor DAVID LEE Qualifications: “Highly RecomSPURGEON mended” by the Pennsylvania Bar Association; Endorsed by the PA Dem; Serving as a Judge since 2016; Appointed by the Governor and unanimously confirmed by the PA Senate; Adjunct Law Professor; National Judicial Fellow; Domestic Violence National Expert; former prosecutor family violence campaign website: http://www.judgespurgeon4commonwealth.com Facebook: http://@judgespurgeon4commonwealthcourt Twitter: http://@davidspurgeon4J Questions: Q: What can you do, both on and off the bench, to ensure that all individuals have equal access to justice?

A: As a judge, I use my position to promote systems change that ensure that all people have more accessibility to the courts. As a Judicial Fellow, I am using those resources to study the statistics over the year of the pandemic to understand whether the use of advanced technology communications increased participation in the court process. Often times, people with limited resources face additional obstacles inherent with our established court processes. Further, we can ensure that everyone in our community has equal access to the court regardless of how you look, who you love, the language you speak and your socio-economic status. Off the bench, judges should participate in the community as a stakeholder to promote the above matters.

Q: What can you do, both on and off the bench, to ensure an equitable and fair court?

A: Judges must continue to be active members of the community. In order to understand how the court is perceived, one must be accessible and engage in intentional dialogue to understand all the people that we serve. Judges must continue to be trained in explicit and implicit bias as it relates to all aspect of the existing court system, and be open to discussing and participating in the changes identified to make the courts more equitable and fair. I recently participated in a national panel to address the racial disparities that exist in the child welfare system. On the bench, we must continue to serve as a servant leader and hold ourselves as well as our colleagues accountable for inequities.

REPUBLICAN (Vote for two) STACY MARIE WALLACE Party: Rep Biographical Info: County: McKean Occupation: Attorney Education: B.A. Communications, University of Pittsburgh (‘01) J.D., Duquesne University School of Law (‘04) Qualifications: Nearly 17 years’ experience Owner: Stacy Wallace Law LLC Specially Appointed

STACY MARIE WALLACE

Family Law Master & SORNA Counsel Adjunct Professor, University of Pittsburgh-Bradford Clerkships: McKean Co. Court of Common Pleas, PA Superior Court Certified Mediator-Conflict Resolution McKean Co. Bar Assn., President campaign website: http://stacyforpa.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/StacyforPA/ Questions: Q: What can you do, both on and off the bench, to ensure that all individuals have equal access to justice?

A: Throughout my career, my purpose has been to always seek justice. I was first inspired to enter the legal field by a pamphlet for Northwestern Legal Services, a legal aid organization of which I now serve on the board of directors. I’ve worked tirelessly to ensure that our state’s most vulnerable individuals, including at-risk children and those with disabilities, have equal access to justice, and have done much of this work pro bono. If elected, I will continue to advocate for and engage with underserved communities. On the bench, I will be a steadfast defender of equal justice under the law in all matters and safeguard the rights of all citizens regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, or financial status.

Q: What can you do, both on and off the bench, to ensure an equitable and fair court?

A: The makeup of the Commonwealth Court should be a true reflection of Pennsylvania and the broad perspectives and values of our residents. I will use my grassroots upbringing from McKean County, diverse experience, and values to guide informed and thoughtful opinions that produce equitable outcomes. Off the bench, I will continue to engage our citizens, lead by example in promoting inclusiveness of all people, and raise awareness of our judiciary’s role. Equitable courts start with having equitable judges who value equality, fairness and a desire to serve others. As just one example of how I’ve done that in my personal life, I co-founded “Blessing Boxes of Bradford” which serves as small sidewalk food pantries throughout my community.

DREW CROMPTON Party: Rep Biographical Info: County: Cumberland Occupation: Judge Education: Philmont Christian Academy Dickinson College Widener School of Law Qualifications: Currently a sitting Judge on the Commonwealth DREW CROMPTON Court. I have authored over 100 opinions. They are balanced, well-reasoned and thoughtful. I am recommended by the PA Bar. I also serve on the Supreme Court Appellate Rules Committee. I have extensive Constitutional, statutory and regulatory experience. campaign website: http://JudgeCrompton.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/judgecrompton Questions: Q: What can you do, both on and off the bench, to ensure that all individuals have equal access to justice?

A: As a sitting Judge I have done all in my power to treat every person that comes before me with respect and fairness. Judges must ensure those with modest means have equal access to justice. We are all created equal but as judges we must insist that all are treated equally or justice is being unfairly denied.

Filing fees and other court costs must be waived for

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

those who cannot afford them. Also, quality lawyers must be available to low income individuals free of cost for civil and criminal matters. Further as judges we must ensure that no one perceives that race or wealth or political connections are weighed when a decision is rendered. High ethical standards are vital to instill confidence in the Judiciary.

Q: What can you do, both on and off the bench, to ensure an equitable and fair court?

A: Litigants must be convinced that the Judge’s personal philosophy does not impede justice. I have also defended the powers of each branch of government since citizens want to be assured that the legislative, executive and judicial branches are not overstepping their constitutional boundaries. Further I try to be a judge that has common sense and treats every person with common decency. Judges must also remain connected to their communities and not be overly isolated. People have more confidence in the Judiciary when they know Judges care about our the same things in our Commonwealth as they do. Judges must have a heightened sense of their words and actions in the courtroom. Both must be beyond reproach.

JUDGE OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS (Vote for not more than TEN) TERM: 10 years SALARY: $186,665 Duties: The Court of Common Pleas is primarily a trial court. There are four divisions of the Court of Common Pleas: Civil, Criminal, Orphans, and Family. The judges can be assigned from one division to another as needed. Judges can run on both the Republican and Democratic tickets.

Candidates are listed in ballot order CHELSA WAGNER Party: Dem Biographical Info: Last Name: Wagner First Name: Chelsa Mailing Address: PO Box 3347 Pittsburgh, PA 15230 Campaign Phone: 412.345.3329 Campaign Email: info@electchelsa.com CHELSEA WAGNER Campaign Web Site: http:// www.electchelsa.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/ChelsaWagnerforJudge Twitter: https://twitter.com/ElectChelsa District: Allegheny County Education: The University of Chicago, BA (Public Policy Studies) The University of Pittsburgh School of Law, JD (Certificate in Civil Litigation) University of Virginia Darden Political Leaders Certificate Program CMU Women’s Leadership and Negotiation Academy Certificate Program Qualifications for office: Attorney for 16 years: public interest and advocacy focus; private practice areas have spanned litigation, employment law, immigration & business transactions. Allegheny County Controller; Pennsylvania State Legislator (House Judiciary Cmte) Fmr. Business Analyst for state and municipal policy Questions: Q: Describe your legal experience in the Civil, Criminal, Family and Orphans Division and why this experience qualifies you to be a judge?

A: I have been an attorney for sixteen years, starting as a plaintiff’s attorney. However, as an elected

VOTERS GUIDE 2021

official, my foremost focus has been with matters of public interest and advocacy, though I have maintained some private legal practice over the years.

In these roles, I have had experience across the civil, criminal and family divisions. I’ve been a leader on the most pressing advocacy and reform efforts, including healthcare access, environmental justice, reforms within the Allegheny County Jail and efforts to reform fines and fees. My legal ability, independence, leadership, government understanding, advanced administrative capability, and devotion to the improvement of the quality of justice, are crucial qualities for this role.

Q: Describe an important personal trait that would make you an effective judge in the Court of Common Pleas.

A: Principled, tested and audacious leadership.

Nothing is a better predictor of how one will perform in any public office than how she has responded to challenges and adversity in life. I have demonstrated personally and professionally that I am steadfast in conducting myself with integrity, courage and tenacity. I’ve always been willing to speak truth to power, but also thereafter to do the more difficult work to implement reform. The role of a judge is two-fold: first is the adhering to the highest standards within her own courtroom; yet second, and often overlooked is that she must lead within our system of justice and be a true steward of our democracy. The present times desperately call for that very leadership from our judges.

Q: Who is your judicial role model and why?

A: As with role models generally, I have a number of judicial role models. The common thread among each was their legal acuity combined with courage and foresight, and collective contributions to the larger body of civil rights laws. Most notable among them are Supreme Court Justices Thurgood Marshall, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Louis Brandeis. I would also point to important contributions made by individuals who came to the bench from roles in public office, such as Justices Frank Murphy and Earl Warren.

SABRINA KORBEL Party: Dem, Rep Biographical Info: Last Name: Korbel First Name: Sabrina Mailing Address: P.O. Box 22411 Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Campaign Phone: 412-453-6263 Campaign Email: SabrinaForJudge@gmail.com Campaign Web Site: http://www. SABRINA KORBEL SabrinaForJudge.com Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/TeamSabrina2021 Twitter: @SabrinaKorbel District: Allegheny County Education: Susquehanna University Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania Bachelor of Arts in Political Science 1999 Graduated cum laude with Univ. Honors University of Pittsburgh School of Law Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Juris Doctor - May 2002 President, Student Bar Association 2002 Student Leader of the Year Award Qualifications for office: Trial Attorney with nearly 20 years experience representing the most resource burdened in Family Law matters. Highly Recommended - ACBA. Serves on panels and roundtables as an expert in domestic violence, trauma & safety planning. Works to promote safe, respectful & equal access to justice for all.

Questions:

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

5

Q: Describe your legal experience in the Civil, Criminal, Family and Orphans Division and why this experience qualifies you to be a judge?

A: I have managed and provided legal representation to victims of domestic violence in over 7000 cases in the Family Division, including participation in negotiations, motions, hearings, and trials before Judges, Masters and Hearing Officers. Many of these matters have related cases in the Criminal Division allowing me to gain extensive knowledge of the criminal justice system and areas of needed reform. In the Orphans Division, I have handled adoption cases. I do not practice in the Civil Division, but I do oversee cases as a Hearing Officer (like a judge) for the Allegheny County Retirement Board. This experience has given me the knowledge and temperament needed to take the bench and make a positive impact on Allegheny County families.

Q: Describe an important personal trait that would make you an effective judge in the Court of Common Pleas.

A: Empathetic. This does not mean that as a judge I would identify with each person’s authentic lived experience. It does mean that I will acknowledge my bias, value our differences and accept that a person’s lived experience affects how they see the world and make decisions for themselves and their families.

Also, I have always recognized that most people who access the justice system have experienced some level of trauma and they need to feel safe to share their stories, that their voice is heard in the courtroom and that they are engaged in their legal case. As a judge, I would always show empathy and promise to apply my twenty years of training to ensure the use of a trauma informed approach and to strive to be culturally competent.

Q: Who is your judicial role model and why?

A: The Honorable Kathleen Mulligan. She is a devoted and dedicated public servant. Judge Mulligan prioritizes the needs of the court’s true customers, the litigants appearing before her, protecting their rights and explaining procedures, even when it inconveniences her or requires the commitment of additional time and resources. She treats people fairly and with respect, ensuring that they are engaged in their legal cases and understand the results and next steps. She identifies systemic changes that advance access to justice, collaborating with other individuals doing the work to ensure holistic improvements. She is humble, impartial and hardworking and has always strived to make the court equitable and accessible.

WRENNA WATSON Party: Dem Biographical Info: Last Name: WATSON First Name: WRENNA Mailing Address: 1700 WYLIE AVENUE PITTSBURGH PA 15219 Campaign Phone: 4129657388; Contact: Michelle Watson 4129189111 WRENNA WATSON Campaign Email: JudgeWrennaWatson@gmail.com Campaign Web Site: http:// WRENNAWATSON.COM Facebook: VOTE WATSON 4 JUDGE Twitter: No Twitter account; InstaGram - VOTE WATSON 4 JUDGE District: ALLEGHENY COUNTY COURT OF COMMON PLEAS - 5TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT Education: Duquesne University School of Law - Ju-

6

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

ris Doctor; Howard University - Bachelor of Science Psychology; Minor History; Schenley High School - Academic Diploma; The Ellis School - 10th Grade Promotion; Frick - 4.5 through 8th Grade Graduation (Scholars Program); Crescent Elementary - K to Grade 4.5 Qualifications for office: 29 year practicing Attorney; 26 year Judge in the Minor Judiciary adjudicate 50,000+ cases as Judge of Pgh Magistrates Court, Pa LCB Hearing Officer, Chair-Pgh Planning Commission and Zoning Board and as Mental Health Hearing Officer (26 yrs) for persons 302’d. Experienced . Fair . Respectful.

Questions: Q: Describe your legal experience in the Civil, Criminal, Family and Orphans Division and why this experience qualifies you to be a judge?

A: A 29-yr practicing Attorney, I represent thousands of children and community members in every division of Court. For 26 yrs, I sit as a Judge in the Minor Judiciary deciding 50,000+ cases. As Judge of Pgh Magistrates Court, I heard 22,000+ cases; criminal, child sex assault, domestic violence, homicide, traffic/housing and dog court matters; conducted arraignments, set bail, issued warrants. I served as Pa LCB Hearing Examiner for W Pa/Erie. I chaired Pgh Planning Commission and Zoning Board hearings (8 yrs), was the Section 8 Grievance Hearing Officer for HACP, and most importantly, I am a 26-yr Hearing Officer for Orphans’ Court conducting Mental Health hearings for persons who have been 302’d and are on a locked psychiatric unit.

Q: Describe an important personal trait that would make you an effective judge in the Court of Common Pleas.

A: I am fair. As City Magistrate, I presided over a case with an older wm Defendant caught with a huge bag of loosely packed marijuana. The charges were standard: Possession and Possession w/the Intent to Deliver. I called the case. The ADA and Defense Attorney had a deal: to withdraw the Possession w/the Intent to Deliver and proceed on the Possession only. I signed the papers. Two months later, the same factual circumstances presented except in this case it was a young bm. I called the case. I waited to hear the deal. But there was none. Rather than proceed to hearing I took control of the case. I eliminated the Intent to Deliver and Held for Possession only. Fair is for all. I have been fair for 26 years in my courtrooms.

Q: Who is your judicial role model and why?

A: The Honorable J. Warren Watson, the 1st elected Black judge in Allegheny County, is 98 y.o., doing well, plays his horn and with whom I am Blessed to live. He is my 1st role model and was my 1st teacher and mentor in the law. Teaching began around the dinner table before I was 10. I knew my legal rights in middle and high school. I asserted my knowledge to help friends. Justice Thurgood Marshall, an alum, as am I and my mother, of Howard University, my 2nd role model, forged civil rights in Brown v Board of Education (1954). And, the Honorable Cheryl Allen where I represented juveniles.

Judge Allen understood the needs of children and communities like a good mother. Justice was firm but fair.

My father is still my best mentor!

LISA MIDDLEMAN Party: Dem, Rep Biographical Info: Last Name: Middleman First Name: Lisa Mailing Address: 2615 Glenchester Road, Wexford, PA 15090 Campaign Phone: (412) 652-5743 Campaign Email: info@lisamidWRENNA WATSON dleman.com

VOTERS GUIDE 2021

Campaign Web Site: http://lisamiddleman.com Facebook: http://facebook.com/lisamiddlemanforjudge Twitter: https://twitter.com/lisamiddleman District: Allegheny County Education: 1980-1983 Duke University, Bachelor of Arts in History; 1982 (summer) Carnegie Mellon University, Computer Science; 1984-1987 University of Pittsburgh School of Law, Juris Doctorate; 2012 Community College of Allegheny County “Fundamentals of Supervision and Management” Qualifications for office: Proficiency in the Rules of Evidence and Procedure that are essential to making correct rulings on case dispositive issues. Taught many continuing legal education classes for attorneys. Training for magistrates seeking to hear homicide cases.

Conducted study on racial disparity in jury panels.

Questions: Q: Describe your legal experience in the Civil, Criminal, Family and Orphans Division and why this experience qualifies you to be a judge?

A: In addition to representing those charged with all grades of criminal offenses in adult and juvenile courts, I have represented witnesses and victims at preliminary hearings, trials, motions, grand jury proceedings, mental health commitments, PFAs, and landlord/ tenant disputes. As the first woman in the PD homicide unit, I have 34 years experience trying the most demanding and life-altering death penalty cases. I have demonstrated my dedication to the rule of law, ability to work hard to research and resolve complex issues, and a deep appreciation for the significance that my judgement may have, not only on the people who would appear before me, but on businesses, families and communities.

Q: Describe an important personal trait that would make you an effective judge in the Court of Common Pleas.

A: One of the personal traits that will make me an effective judge is my understanding that we are never finished learning. I am a perpetual student of the law, research in social science, and of the people around me.

My willingness to be informed, not only by policies from other jurisdictions, statistics, texts and legal precedent, but from the experiences of people in our community, will allow me to continue to seek out solutions that are fair and harm reductive. We must continue to explore experiences that are different from our own in order to sharpen critical thinking skills, gain insight and perspective, and to expand our knowledge. No one is ever finished questioning and learning from their mistakes, triumphs and overall experiences.

Q: Who is your judicial role model and why?

A: My judicial role model is Earl Warren, former Chief Justice of the US Supreme Court. Warren’s greatest strength was not scholarly writing, but rather in his ability to marshal support and lead the Court to decisions that recognized and expanded individual civil rights. Warren authored landmark decisions in Miranda v Arizona and Brown v Board of Education. He led a Court that examined legal disadvantage by virtue of race, poverty, sex and political principles. Warren faced early backlash for decisions upholding one man one vote, interracial marriage, and the rights of accused in criminal cases, yet he remained firm that “when the rights of any individual or group are chipped away, the freedom of all erodes.”

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Campaign Email: info@nicola4judge.com Campaign Web Site: http://nicola4judge.com Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/Nicola4Judge Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nicola4J District: Allegheny County NICOLA HENRYEducation: Slipper Rock UniverTAYLOR sity, 1993 Duquesne University School of Law, 1996 Qualifications for office: I have 25 years of experience practicing law, including clerking for judges, running the county mental health court, and private practice focusing on family and criminal law.

Questions: Q: Describe your legal experience in the Civil, Criminal, Family and Orphans Division and why this experience qualifies you to be a judge?

A: I have experience arguing in front of every division of the Court of Common Pleas. As an assistant District Attorney, I ran the County’s Mental Health Court. In my private practice, I focus on family and criminal court matters. I am often appointed to be a Guardian ad Litem, for a child, and represent an Alleged Incapacitated adult in Orphan’s court. If elected, I want to be a family court judge and continue to do that incredibly important work.

Q: Describe an important personal trait that would make you an effective judge in the Court of Common Pleas.

A: My lived experiences make me perfectly suited to be a judge in the Court of Common Pleas. As an immigrant and black woman, I know the issues facing those communities and the under-representation, and systemic bias, faced in the judicial system. As an adoptive mother, I know the importance of the family division and the profound impact the court has on families every day.

Q: Who is your judicial role model and why?

A: Judges are leaders who set the tone of the courtroom environment. Judges like Judge Clark, Judge Hens-Greco, Judge Bush, Judge McGaugh and Judge Williams who hire black staff, expect nothing but professionalism from everyone in their chambers are great examples.

These Judges, and others like them, advocate for trauma informed courts, training on implicit bias and inclusive environments.

ELLIOT HOWSIE

Party: Dem Biographical Info: Last Name: Howsie First Name: Elliot Mailing Address: Keep Judge Elliot Howsie PO Box 7273 Pittsburgh, PA 15213 Campaign Phone: 724-7054867 Campaign Email: elliot@ellioELLIOT HOWSIE thowsie.org Campaign Web Site: http:// www.elliothowsie.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElliotHowsie2021 Education: Central Catholic High School, class of ‘86; Indiana University of Pennsylvania, BA in NICOLA HENRY-TAYLOR Criminology; Indiana University of Pennsylvania, MA in Criminology; Duquesne School of Law, class Party: Dem of ‘98 Biographical Info: Qualifications for office: Social Worker for Last Name: Henry-Taylor court-involved families; Assistant District Attorney; First Name: Nicola Mailing Address: PO Box 81578, Pittsburgh, PA Director of the Public Defender’s Office; Judge in the Family Division; Judge in the Criminal Division; 15217

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Highly Recommended by the Allegheny County Bar Association Questions: Q: Describe your legal experience in the Civil, Criminal, Family and Orphans Division and why this experience qualifies you to be a judge?

A: I have been practicing law in Allegheny County for more than 20yrs. I understand the generational impact that our courts have on families and communities. In my role as the Director of the Public Defender’s Office, I was responsible for ensuring that every person that was unable to afford an attorney received competent effective legal representation. As a prosecutor in the District Attorney’s Office, I was responsible for prosecuting perpetrators of physical and sexual abuse of children.

As a defense attorney, I was responsible for protecting the rights of people accused of a crime, and representing people in family court matters. My previous work experience qualifies me to continue serving in the Family and Criminal Division of the Court.

Q: Describe an important personal trait that would make you an effective judge in the Court of Common Pleas.

A: I am an effective judge because I am patient and compassionate. I believe that my background, including growing up in a low income community, and working in the social service field, has given me a perspective and understanding of the issues that typically result in members of our communities becoming involved in the court system. Given my legal experience as a prosecutor and a defense attorney, I understand that there are two sides to every story and as a judge I must listen to both sides and allow everyone the opportunity to be heard prior to rendering a decision. Therefore, I believe that my character traits and life experiences have enabled me to develop a fairly unique judicial approach to presiding over cases in the court system.

Q: Who is your judicial role model and why?

A: Judge Kim Clark, our current President Judge in the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas. Judge Clark is a role model for me because she grew up in Wilkinsburg a short distance from my childhood home and she was the first African American Judge to become President Judge in the history of our Court. Judge Clark treats everyone in a fair and equitable manner and affords everyone an opportunity to be heard prior to rendering a decision. Judge Clark is an extremely accomplished jurist who ensures that everyone appearing before her is treated with dignity and respect. She allows her qualifications to speak for themselves and she has performed her duties as President Judge with compassion and humility during times of uncertainty.

TIFFANY SIZEMORE Party: Dem Biographical Info: Last Name: Sizemore First Name: Tiffany Middle Name: Elizabeth Mailing Address: 37 Barton Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15221 Campaign Phone: 412-295-3066 Campaign Email: votetiffanysizemore@gmail.com Campaign Web Site: http://vo- TIFFANY SIZEMORE tetiffanysizemore.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/friendsoftiffany District: Allegheny County; Fifth Judicial District Education: High School: The Winchester Thurston School (1995); College: Antioch College, B.A., Education (2000); Howard University School of Law, cum laude, J.D. (2004) Qualifications for office: Tiffany is a 16-year court-

VOTERS GUIDE 2021

room veteran who has spent her entire career representing individuals who have been marginalized in court systems. She spent the first ten years of her career as a public defender and is now a clinical professor working to dismantle the school-to-prison pipeline.

Questions: Q: Describe your legal experience in the Civil, Criminal, Family and Orphans Division and why this experience qualifies you to be a judge?

A: I am a native Pittsburgher who left after high school in 1995 and returned home as an experienced lawyer in 2012. Since 2013, my practice has been primarily in Juvenile Court (Family Division) representing young people who are facing charges. I developed the Youth Advocacy Clinic at Duquesne University School of Law. Our education work sometimes takes us to the Civil Division. Additionally, I have frequently represented young people who are charged in the adult system (Criminal Division) and have jury trial experience there. The courtroom experience that I have will make me a judge who is ready on Day One to preside over cases and understand and relate to those who appear before me.

Q: Describe an important personal trait that would make you an effective judge in the Court of Common Pleas.

A: I am tenacious. I am committed to working on my own caseload, but also to working on the systemic problems that plague our local court system including: reliance on cash bail, lack of sufficient community programming, and ending the school-to-prison pipeline.

Mass incarceration is the unacceptable result when we allow these problems to flourish. We cannot afford to elect judges who will turn a blind eye to these issues or refuse to work on them outside of their individual caseloads. I have spent many years doing policy and community work, and I will take those policy partners to the bench with me. I will continue the work I am already doing as opposed to hoping to start it after I take the bench. I will be ready on Day One. Q: Who is your judicial role model and why?

A: I have many judicial role models, locally and nationally. However, one of my favorite judicial role models is Justice Sonia Sotomayor. Justice Sotomayor has consistently recognized and paid homage to ignored and marginalized people in her opinions. She is someone who, while sitting in one of the most powerful positions in the country, has not forgotten from where she came.

During her confirmation hearings, Justice Sotomayor recognized the importance of diversity on the bench.

She explicitly recognized that a woman of color, with the richness of her life experiences, would more often than not reach a better decision than her counterparts without those experiences. I agree with her and intend to bring the same to my work.

BRUCE BEEMER Party: Dem, Rep Biographical Info: Last Name: Beemer First Name: Bruce Middle Name: R Mailing Address: 4 Commons Drive Campaign Phone: 412-855-8782 Campaign Email: info@KeepBRUCE BEEMER judgeBeemer.com Campaign Web Site: http://www.

KeepJudgeBeemer.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/JudgeBeemer District: 5th Judicial District (Allegheny County) Education: College of William and Mary (1987-1989), transferred University of Scranton (1989-1992), BA History, Summa Cum Laude University of Pittsburgh

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021 7

School of Law (1992-1995) Qualifications for office: Sitting Allegheny Common Pleas Court Judge (appointed by Gov. Tom Wolf in Dec. 2019), 49th Attorney General of Pennsylvania, Inspector General of Pennsylvania, Office of Attorney General (First Deputy Attorney General, Senior Counsel, Chief of Criminal Prosecutions, Chief of Staff) Questions: Q: Describe your legal experience in the Civil, Criminal, Family and Orphans Division and why this experience qualifies you to be a judge?

A: I serve in the Criminal Division and am one of only 2 judges managing the Sex Offender Court Docket, handling allegations of crimes committed against children.

I served for 14 years in the Allegheny DA’s Office as an ADA and then as a Deputy DA in charge of multiple units within the office. I tried to verdict approximately 125 jury trials. After leaving the DA’s Office, I joined my father as a partner at his and my late-mother’s firm focusing on criminal defense and environmental cases.

I’ve had cases in the criminal, juvenile, and civil divisions. In those prior roles and now as a judge, I see the people in each case and strive to be fair and impartial.

All of these experiences qualify me to continue to handle a docket as a judge.

Q: Describe an important personal trait that would make you an effective judge in the Court of Common Pleas.

A: Throughout my career, I have been the person people have turned to when governmental bodies have been in need of reform. In the wake of the Kathleen Kane scandal, I was appointed by the Governor and unanimously confirmed by the PA Senate as the 49th Attorney General of Pennsylvania. During my tenure, I helped to restore morale within the Office and repaired the broken relationships with other agencies.

I then served as the Inspector General of Pennsylvania, where I investigated waste, fraud, corruption, and abuse in state government agencies. Since becoming the first new judge in decades to be sent directly to the Criminal Division, I have worked tirelessly to mitigate the inequalities and inefficiencies in our judicial and penal system.

Q: Who is your judicial role model and why?

A: While I greatly admire certain Supreme Court Justices (Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Thurgood Marshall come immediately to mind), it has been both my personal interactions with and observations of Allegheny County President Judge Kim Berkeley Clark that make her my role model. She was my supervisor at the District Attorney’s Office for several years. Judge Clark exemplified empathy and compassion as a prosecutor, traits that are absolutely essential to being a fair and impartial judge. Judge Clark leads by quiet and distinguished example and displays a level of humility and respect for others we all need to show in the judiciary.

She is prepared, punctual, and courteous to all who are before her. She is a superb role model for any judge.

JESSEL COSTA Party: Dem Biographical Info: Last Name: Costa First Name: Jessel Middle Name: August Mailing Address: 429 Fourth Ave, Suite 1705, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Campaign Phone: 4129169233 Campaign Email: info@jesselJESSEL COSTA costa.com Campaign Web Site: http://www.jesselcosta.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jesselfor-

8

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

VOTERS GUIDE 2021

judge Twitter: https://twitter.com/jesselforjudge District: Allegheny County Education: Central Catholic High School. Pitt Undergrad: Pitt News; Phi Sigma Pi, honors fraternity; intern at PA Department of Labor and Industry & Pittsburgh City Council. Duquesne Law: Student Bar Association; Juris Magazine; intern at Pennsylvania Securities Commission & Pittsburgh Law Department.

Qualifications for office: Working on both sides of a trial—as a public defender AND prosecutor—coupled with working on every aspect of a case—from the investigatory stage through a jury verdict—demonstrates a holistic, comprehensive understanding of the legal system. Practiced in more than 20 counties in western PA. Questions: Q: Describe your legal experience in the Civil, Criminal, Family and Orphans Division and why this experience qualifies you to be a judge?

A: Jessel began his career as an attorney at the Allegheny County Office of the Public Defender. As an Assistant Public Defender, he handled hundreds of cases and clients in all levels of the court system. For the next 6 years, Jessel served as a Deputy Attorney General prosecuting some of the most heinous crimes imaginable: child sexual abuse and child pornography offenses. As Deputy Attorney General, he presided over hundreds of investigations and cases in more than 20 counties throughout western Pennsylvania. Jessel now works in private practice where he specializes in criminal defense.

Q: Describe an important personal trait that would make you an effective judge in the Court of Common Pleas.

A: Jessel believes that his temperament, listening skills, familiarity with both sides of a dispute, and his ability to think outside of the box, are all qualities that would make an effective judge. Temperament ensures that a judge is respectful and kind. Listening skills ensure that a judge is reasoned and fair. Understanding issues from both sides ensures that a judge is free from bias. Ability to think outside of the box ensures that a judge will not be hamstrung by the status quo, but rather, look for creative solutions to make the system work better, and guarantee true justice.

Q: Who is your judicial role model and why?

A: Jessel’s judicial role model is the late, great Ruth Bader Ginsburg. As the first Jewish woman on the Supreme Court, and only the second woman, Ginsburg was a trail-blazer and an inspiration. She was a champion of women’s rights, and stalwart of progressive jurisprudence, especially as the Court grew more conservative during her tenure.

TOM CAULFIELD Party: Dem Biographical Info: Last Name: Caulfield First Name: Thomas Middle Name: Patrick Mailing Address: Friends of Judge Caulfield P.O. Box 314 Braddock, PA 15104 Campaign Phone: 412. 708. 0557 Campaign Email: JudgeCaulTOM CAULFIELD field2021@gmail.com Campaign Web Site: http://www.

JudgeCaulfield2021.com Facebook: Tom Caulfield for Court of Common Pleas Judge Twitter: @Caulfield2021 Education: I graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pittsburgh in 1988. I received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy. I attended the University

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Honors College and was a University Scholar. I graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law in 1991 when I receive my Juris Doctor.

Qualifications for office: I am Highly Recommended by the Allegheny County Bar Association. I have been a Magisterial District Judge since 2010 and have heard over 26,000 cases in every area of the law. From 1992 until 2010 I was an attorney with the Office of the Public Defender, and also had a solo practice for 12 years.

Questions: Q: Describe your legal experience in the Civil, Criminal, Family and Orphans Division and why this experience qualifies you to be a judge?

A: As an attorney with the Office of the Public Defender, my practice was concentrated in the Criminal Division. I represented clients in preliminary hearings, at trials by jury as well as before Judges, in post trial motions, as well as probation and parole matters. I had many occasions to appear in Family Division to argue PFA issues, and in Orphans Court to represent people fighting mental health commitments. From 1991 to 2004, I had a solo practice that was much more diverse.

While still practicing criminal law, I also represented plaintiffs and defendants in civil cases, landlord and tenant actions, divorce and custody cases, and clients in juvenile court cases. My practice took me to most of the counties in southwest Pennsylvania.

Q: Describe an important personal trait that would make you an effective judge in the Court of Common Pleas.

A: I try to treat everyone I interact with respectfully.

All parties to the cases I hear, all attorneys who appear before me, and all witnesses who may testify in my courtroom deserve to be treated as I would like to be treated myself. In my years as an attorney, but especially my time as a Public Defender, I saw many Judges mistreat and demean people in their courtrooms. This was especially true for my indigent clients. No matter who is before me, no matter the type of case, and no matter the outcome, everyone must be treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. Failure to do so damages the integrity of the court and weakens its authority and reputation. As a Magisterial District Judge, this is one of the ethical canons I live by.

Q: Who is your judicial role model and why?

A: I do not have a single role model. In my 19 years of representing clients prior to taking the bench in 2010, I appeared before dozens of Common Pleas Court Judges and Magisterial District Judges in nine different counties. I tried to take away something from every one of these court appearances. Sometimes it was a positive thing that particular Judge did, and sometimes it was a negative thing. I realized that each Judge brings his or her own strengths and weaknesses with them, and after my appointment I was determined to take the best of all of them and work to try to avoid their shortcomings. Rather than simply try to be the next “Judge So and So”, I have always tried to be the best Judge Caulfield I can be. It is a work in progress.

JOSEPH PATRICK MURPHY Party: Rep Biographical Info: Last Name: Murphy First Name: Joseph Middle Name: Patrick Mailing Address: 310 Grant Street, Suite 3309 Campaign Phone: 412-521-2000 Campaign Email: jmurphy@ jmurphyfirm.com Campaign Web Site: http://josephpatrickmurphy.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.

JOSEPH PATRICK MURPHY

com/josephpatrickmurphy District: Fifth Judicial District of Pennsylvania (Allegheny County) Education: B.A. Stockton College J.D. Duquesne University Law School Qualifications for office: Over Twenty Years’ Experience Representing People in Court Matters Questions: Q: Describe your legal experience in the Civil, Criminal, Family and Orphans Division and why this experience qualifies you to be a judge?

A: I have been practicing actual courtroom law for over twenty years. I have a long history of representing PEOPLE. I was never a prosecutor or foreclosure attorney, I represented PEOPLE. During the sub-prime crisis I recruited and trained attorneys all over the commonwealth in how to defend people against predatory collections lawsuits. We saved millions of dollars for Citizens of our Commonwealth. This work went on for over a decade and involved endless appearances in court and everyone involved in the effort got a lot of experience. As a Roman Catholic, I also have a long history representing people in humanitarian immigration that dates back to the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Q: Describe an important personal trait that would make you an effective judge in the Court of Common Pleas.

A: Listening. I listen to people. I even try to create space for them to speak in. Listening can be an act of respect, even humility. Judges must show, and actually have, respect for the Citizens that come before them. A Judge that shows humility and respect will usually find those qualities reciprocated by others around them.

Q: Who is your judicial role model and why?

A: R. Stanton Wettick. He was even tempered, patient, respectful of the litigants and public. Also very smart, a hard worker. Judge Wettick’s rulings were very consistent. This made our court system very efficient.

ANTHONY DELUCA Party: Rep Biographical Info: Last Name: DeLuca First Name: Anthony Mailing Address: 225 Ross Street, 4th Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Campaign Phone: 412.401.6963 Campaign Email: DeLucaforANTHONY DELUCA Judge2021@gmail.com Campaign Web Site: http:// www.DeLuca4Judge.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/anthonydelucaforjudge Twitter: http://twitter.com/deluca4judge District: Allegheny County/5th Judicial District of Pennsylvania Education: Boston College, 1994 University of Pittsburgh School of Law, 1997, Magna Cum Laude Qualifications for office: Highly Recommended by the Allegheny County Bar Association Instrumental in Developing Mental Health Court in Allegheny County. Only Union Labor Attorney in the Court of Common Pleas race. Has represented working families for better wages, benefits and working conditions for well over a decade.

Questions: Q: Describe your legal experience in the Civil, Criminal, Family and Orphans Division and why this experience qualifies you to be a judge?

A: The most impactful period of my career is when I worked to develop the Mental Health Court in Allegheny County. I was able to experience the incred-

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

dible benefit of working in a collaborative way in the Criminal Justice System to treat offenders and prevent recidivism. I have a wide variety of experience in the Criminal Courts as a Criminal defense attorney for over 15 years and before that an Assistant District Attorney.

In my career I have been involved in hundreds of trials.

I have also practiced in the civil courts as the only union side labor attorney in the Court of Common Pleas race.

I have been representing unions as a substantial part of my career for over a decade. Finally, I have done some work in every of the Divisions.

Q: Describe an important personal trait that would make you an effective judge in the Court of Common Pleas.

A: Many people in my family are school teachers including my parents, grandmother, Aunts, Uncles and cousins. When I thought of going into the teaching profession I was warned that I was not patient enough. Since that time, through life experience and being the father of three kids, I have learned patience. That patience is necessary in a judge because a judge should take the time to lean who is before the bench to best render decisions.

Moreover, particularly when a defendant is in need of treatment, a judge should be patient in allowing that treatment to take effect.

Q: Who is your judicial role model and why?

A: I clerked for Judge Maureen Lally-Green on the Pennsylvania Superior Court. She was a shining example of the traits of intelligence, passion, work ethic and fair mindedness that a great judge must possess.

DANIEL J. KONIECZKA, JR. Party: Rep Biographical Info: Last Name: Konieczka, Jr. First Name: Daniel Middle Name: J Mailing Address: 89 Chapel Drive Pittsburgh Pa 15237 Campaign Phone: 412 335-1361 Campaign Email: dankforjudge@ gmail.com Campaign Web Site: http://www.

DANIEL J. dankforjudge.com KONIECZKA, JR. Facebook: Facebook/dankforjudge Education: University of Pittsburgh - BA - 1982 University of Pittsburgh - JD - 1986 Qualifications for office: Highly recommended by the ACBA.I am a practicing attorney with over thirty-four years of trial experience. I am a sitting Magisterial District Judge. I also served as Deputy District Attorney in Allegheny County for over 23 years. Finally, I have 8 years of criminal defense/juvenile experience Questions: Q: Describe your legal experience in the Civil, Criminal, Family and Orphans Division and why this experience qualifies you to be a judge?

A: As a magisterial district judge, I currently enter judgments in hundreds of civil, criminal and juvenile matters. As a Deputy District Attorney, I personally litigated or directed the prosecution of thousands of cases to include the most violent offenders and also oversaw the adult certification of appropriate juvenile matters.

During my tenure, I was sworn in as a federal Special Assistant United States Attorney for the investigation, indictment and prosecution of the violent street LAW gang. As a criminal defense attorney, I handled both criminal and juvenile matters.

Q: Describe an important personal trait that would make you an effective judge in the Court of Common Pleas.

A: I possess, as a current trier of fact, the trait of a thorough listener. A thorough listener possesses the courtroom knowledge and experience to discern, what some-

VOTERS GUIDE 2021

times is not well-articulated, but highly relevant to the issue at hand. A thorough listener permits all sides an equal opportunity to present their perspective. In addition, a thorough listener must understand how the law applies to the established facts. Finally, a thorough listener enters a judgment based on their common sense, personal integrity and empathy to all parties.

Q: Who is your judicial role model and why?

A: I have appeared in many courtrooms and observe many fine jurists. U.S. District judges, Hornak, BarryFischer, and Ambrose modeled demeanor, thoroughness and courtroom command respectively. Common Pleas judges Allen (Superior Court), McDaniel, and Borkowski modeled fairness, confidence and command of the law respectively. Justice David N. Wecht is a model for his opinion writing clarity. However, to select one, the Honorable Jeffrey A. Manning is closest in possessing all of the aforementioned traits. Honorary mention to late judge Robert Dauer whose affability is unmatched.

WILLIAM BILL CAYE Party: Rep Biographical Info: Last Name: Caye First Name: William Mailing Address: 109 Crab Orchard Court Campaign Phone: 412.953.7022 Campaign Email: williamcaye@ williamcayelaw.com WILLIAM BILL Campaign Web Site: http://www.

CAYE williamcaye.com Facebook: Caye for Judge Twitter: @BillCaye4J District: Allegheny County Education: Duquesne University, School of Law, JD Duquesne University, Liberal Arts, BA Qualifications for office: Recommended - Common Pleas Judge, Allegheny Co. Bar Assoc.; Endorsed for Judge, Allegheny Labor Council; Endorsed for Judge, Allegheny Co. Democratic Party; Endorsed by Char Valley Democrats; Endorsed by Teamsters Joint Council 40 & FOP#1; Past Sr. Deputy Attorney General, Assist. District Attorney Questions: Q: Describe your legal experience in the Civil, Criminal, Family and Orphans Division and why this experience qualifies you to be a judge?

A: I have extensive trial verdict and judicial support experience in our Courts of Common Pleas sections. For over 27 years, I have been engaged on all sides of legal disputes in substantial, complex pretrial settlement negotiations, motions, litigation, trials & alternative dispute resolutions. This all-inclusive court room litigation experience, as described, starts at the minor judiciary and covers trial courts across our state - primarily in areas of child advocacy in Juvenile delinquency, Criminal prosecutions & Criminal defense. I teach professional education at The Cyril Wecht Institute.

Q: Describe an important personal trait that would make you an effective judge in the Court of Common Pleas.

A: Servant-leader is an important personal trait that would make me an effective impartial Common Pleas Judge. I listen and problem solve, and as such, I am well suited to make competent court rulings that will make a real and meaningful difference for enhancing quality of life issues to transform circumstances for all people with poise, honest communication, a sense of fairness, and compassion. Judges must lead in tough cases and communicate effectively and responsibly in proactive, holistic ways to conscientiously serve every citizen every time fairly and equitably.

Q: Who is your judicial role model and why?

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

9

A: RBG. Justice Ginsburg was my judicial role model because she understood how to relate to people she sometimes disagreed with, with class and humanity. As a Judge, she administered balanced justice and equity as Constitutionally charged with a profound, impartial, and independent daily duty of care. In so doing, RBG performed evolving judicial obligations that were entrusted by the will of the people, for the people, and to benefit all of the people. Her decisions including her dissents significantly impact many lives in a positive way.

Judges like her must be critical thinkers and deliberate in their reasoning in order to solve problems and guide sound decision making.

CHUCK PORTER Party: Rep Biographical Info: Last Name: Porter First Name: Chuck Middle Name: John Mailing Address: 202 Garden Lane 202 Garden Lane Glenshaw, PA 15116 Campaign Phone: 412-818-2344 CHUCK PORTER Campaign Email: team@chuckporterforjudge.com Campaign Web Site: http://www. chuckporterforjudge.com Facebook: https://facebook.com/ChuckPorterforJudge/ District: Allegheny County Education: BSBA Duquense University 1982 JD Duquense University School Law 1985-Law Review Qualifications for office: I’ve been a trial lawyer for 36 years I have served as an Assistant District Attorney, And have been in private practice for 34 where I have practiced at some point in every division. I have contemporaneously served as a judicial law clerk for three common please court judges for nearly thirty years Questions: Q: Describe your legal experience in the Civil, Criminal, Family and Orphans Division and why this experience qualifies you to be a judge?

A: I began my career as an assistant District Attorney where I represented the Commonwealth in pretrial and trial manners. I have been in private practice since September of 1987. I have practiced in each division at some point during my career. I have primarily been a criminal defense lawyer throughout my private practice. I have accepted court appointments as well as private clients throughout my career. I have tried numerous jury trials in both the state and federal court systems throughout my thirty-six years of being a trial lawyer. I have been recognized by my peers as one of the best trial lawyers in America since 2006. Only 1 of the 17 candidates have achieved such a recognition. I’ve also represented the DA’s office in civil matters.

Q: Describe an important personal trait that would make you an effective judge in the Court of Common Pleas.

A: I believe I am even tempered and possess common sense. I have been viewed by my colleagues as a “lawyer’s lawyer” I have appeared in front of numerous judges over the past thirty-six years all of these appearances have been learning experiences that better enable me to understand what makes an effective judge.

My experience, temperament and reputation amongst my peers will make me an effective judge.

Q: Who is your judicial role model and why?

A: My judicial role model is Judge Gustave Diamond I had the pleasure of appearing before him in many cases in the US District Court. One noteworthy case involved 13 defendants and spanned 11 weeks of trial Judge Diamond efficiently handled such a large case. He was fair and even handed with all lawyers and parties. He

10

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

VOTERS GUIDE 2021

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

was prepared at all times and thoughtfully handled all ALLEGHENY COUNTY objections and evidentiary matters. HIs rulings were ALLEGHENY COUNTY well thought out and supported by the law. He required SHERIFF COUNCIL DISTRICT 1 the government to properly present their case. Judge Diamond’s thoughtful, fair and even approach gave all The Sheriff as an officer of the court serves writs, (Vote for One) in his courtroom a level playing field. He listened care- warrants, summons and other judicial documents, fully to the arguments of the lawyers treated all with impanels jurors, executes sheriff’s sales and carries Initiates and adopts ordinances, makes appropriout orders of the county court. ations, adopts annual balanced budget, adopts an respect and made rulings consistent with the law.

TERM: 4 years SALARY: $110, 372 administrative code, approves Executive appointments, conducts investigations of County DepartMARK PATRICK FLAHERTY ments, accepts grants, gifts or donations on behalf DEMOCRATIC of County, may modify or eliminate departments, Party: Rep agencies or functions that no longer serve citizens.

(Vote for One) TERM OF OFFICE: 4 years STIPEND: $10,940 KEVIN KRAUS RICK HOSKING Party: Rep RICHARD L. WEISS Party: Grn Biographical Info: Last Name: Weiss First Name: Richard Middle Name: Leonard Mailing Address: 107 Old Village Lane, Bethel Park, PA 15102 Campaign Phone: 412-831RICHARD L. 2563 WEISS Campaign Email: RLWeiss@ gmail.com Campaign Web Site: http://www.alleghenygreens.org/platform/candidates Twitter: https://twitter.com/RichardLWeiss Education: Bethel Park High School; University of Pittsburgh, BA Political Science; University of Denver, Juris Doctor; American University, Master of Laws in International Legal Studies, Ford Foundation Fellowship; University of Chicago, Master of Business Administration Qualifications for office: Admitted to Pennsylvania Bar, 1992, Attorney number 66095 Questions: Q: Describe your legal experience in the Civil, Criminal, Family and Orphans Division and why this experience qualifies you to be a judge?

A: Civil and criminal law were required courses and on the bar exam. Family law was not a required course but I took family law as an elective in law school because I was interested in learning the subject. While in law school, I interned for a state district court judge for academic credit. (I also interned at a large corporation and a state regulatory agency.) I have been working as a lawyer in private practice for almost three decades, for the U.S. federal govt at USAID, for foreign investors in Indonesia, and as litigation support in the U.S. If change and reform is what you want, seek it from outside the current system. As an outsider, I would be open to receiving and implementing proposals from outside experts.

Q: Describe an important personal trait that would make you an effective judge in the Court of Common Pleas.

A: I listen to all sides dispassionately. If there is new evidence I am willing to change my mind.

I believe in the value of every human being. If elected: 1. I will not set cash bail. 2. I will not accept charges merely for possession of cannabis.

Q: Who is your judicial role model and why?

A: Former Texas Judge and District Attorney Ronnie Earl. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL16F062474CF806E0

Party: Dem, Rep Biographical Info: Last Name: Kraus First Name: Kevin Middle Name: Matthew Mailing Address: 156 Berkshire Court Pittsburgh, PA 15237 Campaign Phone: 412-589-0573 Campaign Email: kevinkrausforsheriff@gmail.com KEVIN KRAUS Campaign Web Site: http://www. krausforsheriff.com Facebook: @kevinkrausforsheriff Twitter: N/A District: N/A Education: Proud alumni of La Roche College, where I graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and a degree in Administration and Management. I also am a graduate of the F.B.I. National Academy and completed police executive training at the JFK School of Government by Harvard.

Qualifications for office: 21-year veteran of the Pittsburgh Police, thru the ranks of Detective, Sergeant and Lieutenant. For 12 years, served as Lieutenant of Major Crimes, Investigations Branch. Also was Zone 5 Station Commander for a year. For the last 7 years, currently serving as Chief Deputy of ACSO, second in command.

Questions: Q: What elements of your education, training and work experience qualify you to be Sheriff?

Why are you the best candidate for Sheriff?

A: I’ve been in law enforcement for the last 28 consecutive years, working hard every day during these challenging times and continuously evolving with policing to best serve our community. I have gained the experience and knowledge to form a vision moving forward to do my part as Sheriff to work collectively with stakeholders to solve issues. I am the best candidate because I am committed to being an equitable Sheriff to all the citizens of Allegheny County and I want to continue serving and protecting every citizen regardless of background, race, ethnicity, gender or religion.

Q: What are the most pressing issues in the Sheriff’s office and how would you resolve them?

A: As Sheriff, the most pressing issues to me are transparency, personnel accountability, hiring, training and green initiatives. We have secured monies in our budget to enhance our current transparency with an In-Car Camera Initiative. I also secured capital monies to create an early warning system to ensure personnel are held accountable, identify potential issues and further enhance transparency. I also want to hire the right people and better our hiring processes with additional pre-employment screening using a panel of physicians to obtain a collective decision on candidates. Lastly, I would also like to increase training requirements and opportunities and also invest in green initiatives with technology and green vehicles.

DEMOCRATIC JACK BETKOWSKI Party: Dem

REPUBLICAN JOE WISE Party: Rep

ALLEGHENY COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT 3 (Vote for One)

DEMOCRATIC ANITA PRIZIO Party: Dem Biographical Info: Last Name: Prizio First Name: Anita Mailing Address: 117 W. Marshall Dr. Pittsburgh PA 15215 Campaign Email: anita@anitaprizio.org Campaign Web Site: http://anitaprizio.org ANITA PRIZIO Twitter: @anitaprizio District: County Council District 3 Education: 1969-1981 Winchester-Thurston School; 1981-1985 Bucknell University (B.A. Political Science-German); 1989 MBA University of Pittsburgh; 1999 JD University of Pittsburgh (Active Member of the PA Bar 83695) Qualifications for office: Allegheny County Councilmember 2018--O’Hara Township Councilmember 1998-2006 Work Experience: 1989-2019: Pittsburgh Crankshaft Service, Inc.-Owner. An internal engine parts warehouse, a family business founded by my parents, both European immigrants. Current Steel Valley Auth. (Outreach Specialist) Questions: Q: Many municipalities in Allegheny County struggle to pay for their government. What can you do as a member of Council to make them more economically viable?

A: As a former council member of O’Hara Township, I recall public works and public safety as two departments that commanded a large portion of our budget. Voluntary consolidation of police departments may ease some of these budgetary challenges as well as cooperative agreements between communities regarding road maintenance and equipment,

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

however, the most dramatic cost savings would result from true consolidation. Such a move would require state approval. Authority for Improvements in Municipalities (AIM) provides low interest loans to municipalities to finance capital needs. However, grants for multi-municipal projects should be increased to encourage efficiencies.

Q: What policies will you pursue to promote social and racial justice for all citizens?

A: COVID has laid bare the social and racial inequities prevalent in Allegheny County. As a Council, we are seeking to address these issues through ordinances. I have worked and will continue to make sure that Allegheny County works for everyone, not just for a privileged few. I am proud of my track record on social and racial justice, but we must continue to address the fact that the County’s most marginalized populations live in some of the most polluted areas, in food deserts, with inadequate access to reliable public transportation. By using our budgetary power, we could greatly improve this situation.

Q: What action, if any, would you support to improve air quality in Western Pennsylvania?

A: Pittsburgh recently received an F rating from the American Air Association, and is among the top 10 worst U.S. cities for air quality. Addressing this crisis is a central focus of my work on Council.

I was the lead sponsor of the Clean Construction Ordinance passed by Council. This law requires all County construction projects $2.5 million and above to use the most effective diesel particulate pollution control devices available. I am the Chair of the first-ever Committee on Sustainability and Green initiatives, created to collaborate closely with the Sustainability Manager and municipalities to offer a regional approach to our climate crisis.

VOTERS GUIDE 2021

PA 15239 Campaign Phone: 412-7376868 Campaign Email: mchapkis839@gmail.com Campaign Web Site: http:// www.michelleforcountycouncil. com Facebook: https://www.faceMICHELLE book.com/MichelleforcountyNACCARATIcouncil CHAPKIS District: County Council District 8 Education: Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Pittsburgh Qualifications for office: My career has been spent supporting communities to better protect public health and the environment. This includes also working with local, state and federal agencies. For the past ten years I have also served on the Plum Zoning Hearing Board & volunteered on the boro’s comprehensive plan committee.

Q: Many municipalities in Allegheny County struggle to pay for their government.

What can you do as a member of Council to make them more economically viable?

A: There are 130 municipalities in Allegheny County, one with a population as small as 68 people. The Councils of Government and organizations such as CONNECT and the Local Government Academy provide an array of support and resources to municipalities to help reduce costs.

With the American Rescue Plan funding going directly to these municipalities and Allegheny County, Council has an opportunity to serve a leadership role. It needs to provide support to municipalities, and the organizations they rely upon, to ensure funding is distributed equitably by 2024. With discussions of a large infrastructure package, Council must work closely with REPUBLICAN both state and federal elected leaders to ensure MEREDITH DOLAN federal funds flow to the communities in greatest need.

Party: Rep Q: What policies will you pursue to promote social and racial justice for all citizens?

A: I will use my knowledge of social determinants of health (such as affordable and safe ALLEGHENY COUNTY housing, quality education, transportation, COUNCIL DISTRICT 4 health care, and clean air and water) to advance priorities throughout the County that strive to(Vote for One) ward a healthier, more equitable and more prosperous region for ALL residents, regardless of zip code. The pandemic has demonstrated issues of DEMOCRATIC inequity across Allegheny County. In response, the Black Equity Coalition was formed to focus PATRICK J. CATENA on the disproportionate impact on the health, well-being, and economic stability of communiParty: Dem ties of color. This is an opportunity for County Council to learn from the Coalition and respond to its recommended policies. Lastly, the voices ALLEGHENY COUNTY of the LGBTQ+ community must continue to be COUNCIL DISTRICT 8 heard.

Q: What action, if any, would you support (Vote for One) to improve air quality in Western Pennsylvania?

DEMOCRATIC A: There are many industrial sources contributing to poor air quality, resulting in an increase in MICHELLE NACCARATI-CHAPKIS cancer and asthma rates and a lack of economic growth. Recently, County Council unanimously Party: Dem passed an episodic weather regulation to ensure Biographical Info: a decrease in particulate matter. Industry must Last Name: Naccarati-Chapkis invest in their facilities, upgrading outdated First Name: Michelle equipment and using best available technologies Mailing Address: 839 Justine Drive Pittsburgh, so that hazardous air pollutants are no longer

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

11

released impacting the community’s health. Reducing emissions from the transit sector and creating a comprehensive plan to address climate change will also improve our air. An investment in workforce development, including working with the Community College of Allegheny County, could be a roadmap for renewable energy jobs.

REPUBLICAN ERIC P. CASTEEL Party: Rep Biographical Info: Last Name: Casteel First Name: Eric Middle Name: Phillip Mailing Address: 120 Valley Fields Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15239-1462 Campaign Phone: 412-719ERIC P. CASTEEL 4207 Campaign Email: campaign@ericcasteel.org Campaign Web Site: http://www.ericcasteel. org District: 8 Education: Bachelor of Science from the University of Pittsburgh Questions: No Response

ALLEGHENY COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT 9 (Vote for One)

DEMOCRATIC BOB MACEY Party: Dem

ALLEGHENY COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT 12 (Vote for One in your district)

DEMOCRATIC ROBERT PALMOSINA Party: Dem

MAYOR, CITY OF PITTSBURGH The executive, administrative and law enforcement powers of the city are vested in the mayor. The mayor shall control and be accountable for the executive branch of city government.

Term of Office: 4 years Salary: $117,502

DEMOCRATIC (Vote for One)

12

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

EDWARD C. GAINEY Party: Dem Biographical Info: Last Name: Gainey First Name: Ed Mailing Address: PO Box 5208, Pittsburgh, PA 15206 Campaign Phone: 412-2823846 Campaign Email: info@ gaineyformayor.com EDWARD C. Campaign Web Site: http:// GAINEY gaineyformayor.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gaineyformayor Twitter: https://twitter.com/gaineyformayor District: Currently represents House District 24 in the General Assembly, Democratic Nominee for Mayor of the City of Pittsburgh Education: Morgan State University Class of 1994; Peabody High School Class of 1988 Qualifications for office: Raised by a single mom in East Liberty and the first in his family to go to college, Ed has spent years fighting the inequality that too many Pittsburghers have faced for decades. In Harrisburg, he’s fought to raise the minimum wage, increase transit funding, and reform our criminal justice system.

Questions: Q: What is your record of accomplishment in Affordable Housing and what are your plans for the future?

A: As a State Representative, I’ve championed the development of affordable housing in my district and fought on behalf of residents facing displacement. As Mayor I will invest in housing every Pittsburgher can afford. That means: 1) using the leverage of the City’s planning process to demand community benefit agreements and inclusionary contracting practices from developers rather than rubber stamping their plans, 2) deploying tools like Community Land Trusts, the Land Bank, and Inclusionary Zoning to build neighborhoods that are accessible for everyone, and 3) focusing the resources of the Housing Authority and URA on expanding affordable housing options, preventing displacement, and protecting neighborhoods from predatory development.

Q: What policy changes would you recommend to improve police accountability?

A: We need to change the way we police this city. If elected, I’m committed to real police reform that ensures that no Pittsburgher lives in fear of crime, or of the police. That means: 1) demilitarizing police equipment and training to break the “us vs them” mentality between police and community, 2) redirecting resources from militarized gear and tactics into implementing community policing strategies, 3) establishing alternative response procedures that allow social and healthcare workers to respond non-violent and mental health emergencies instead of police, 4) fighting for use of force reform to change the rules of engagement between police and the public and make it easier to hold officers accountable when they abuse their power.

Q: What kinds of strategies would you pursue to address the multiple and interconnected challenges of climate change, social, environmental and economic justice?

A: Interconnected injustices require an intersectional response. If we attempt to address exclusion in silos, people who face multiple

VOTERS GUIDE 2021

injustices end up falling through the cracks.

Breaking through those silos requires active leadership that understands how inequalities compound for our most marginalized communities. As Mayor I’m committed to a zero-harm, zero-exclusion agenda that lifts everyone up by focusing on those who have been left furthest behind, defending their right to belong and contribute, and treating them like the assets that they are for our City. The time for simply talking about that reality is over, we need action, and we need to elevate leaders who have those lived experiences to arrive at solutions.

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

nected challenges of climate change, social, environmental and economic justice?

A: I would increase the forestry department as well as environmental services to enact the plans I have for improved air and water quality.

I have a comprehensive plan for job opportunities and training for underserved communities.

The start is with drivers licenses (to include driver’s training). The ability to drive legally is imperative for opportunities in many fields or trades.

REPUBLICAN

PITTSBURGH CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 2

(Vote for One)

(Vote for One in your district)

TONY MORENO

Council consists of nine members elected by district by the city of Pittsburgh voters. The legislative power is vested in the council. Council members in odd-numbered districts are elected 2 years after the even-numbered district members are elected.

Party: Rep Biographical Info: Last Name: MORENO First Name: Tony Middle Name: Crawford Mailing Address: PO Box 99493 Pittsburgh PA 15233 Campaign Phone: (412) 2514018 Campaign Email: realsteelTONY MORENO mayor@gmail.com Campaign Web Site: http:// realsteelmayor.com Facebook: Tony Moreno for Pittsburgh Mayor District: 1 Northside Education: Plumber’s apprentice credits College credits Mental Health First Aid Certified Crisis Intervention Team Certified Investigations Courses through MPOETC Qualifications for office: 24 years of Public service in The City of Pittsburgh Questions: Q: What is your record of accomplishment in Affordable Housing and what are your plans for the future?

A: My plans for the future would be to target existing abandoned buildings and homes, rehab them, and make them available to people currently awaiting housing. I would utilize the local workforce with specific job training to rehab existing buildings. This would be done under the blue-collar trades training programs I have plans for. I would utilize community input for housing needs with regard to who to make the specific properties available.

Q: What policy changes would you recommend to improve police accountability?

A: Annual evaluations upward as well as down the chain of command would be set up. Meaning, the patrol officer would evaluate their sergeants to hold them accountable for their treatment of the officers. Sergeants would evaluate their Lieutenant, in the same manner, the patrol officer would evaluate their Sergeant. This will hold everyone accountable and likely eliminate discrimination and corruption inside of the leadership structure. Leadership training would be prioritized over promotion. Selection for promotion would be based on the individual’s body of work, not nepotism or favoritism.

The complaint process has shown the police department is failing and lacking in accountability and approval by the citizens of Pittsburgh.

Q: What kinds of strategies would you pursue to address the multiple and intercon-

TERM: 4 years

SALARY: $70,108

DEMOCRATIC THERESA KAIL SMITH Party: Dem Biographical Info: Last Name: Kail Smith First Name: Theresa Mailing Address: PO Box 25340 Campaign Phone: 7022799470 Campaign Email: info@reelecttheresakailsmith.com THERESA KAIL Campaign Web Site: http:// SMITH reelecttheresakailsmith.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reelecttheresakailsmith District: 2 Education: Some college, many trainings, and certifications Qualifications for office: I have served on City Council since 2009 and became City Council President in 2020. Prior to my service on City Council, I volunteered for local organizations throughout Pittsburgh and District 2 for more than 30 years.

Q: What are your top three priorities for this office?

A: 1. Infrastructure 2. Continuing to address quality of life issues for our residents 3. Creating safe, clean environments and continuing stabilization and development efforts in each neighborhood in D-2 Q: What role do you see for your municipal government in interacting with Allegheny County Council?

A: I have a great relationship with my County Councilman, the County Executive, and others on Council and I fully expect to continue those relationships. It is important to focus on all levels of government because they all affect the City of Pittsburgh. In District 2, we work closely with our County Councilman on road reconstruction and social services.

Q: How would you propose addressing the water, air quality and other infrastructure concerns of your residents?

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

VOTERS GUIDE 2021

A: During my time on Council, I held the first post-agendas and public hearings on the quality of water in the City of Pittsburgh. This directly led to the replacement of thousands of lead lines throughout the city. PWSA now claims Pittsburgh has the best quality of water in decades. While there is still work to do, I am working with PWSA and the Peduto Administration to encourage PWSA to offer payment plans to residents and small businesses who need to have infrastructure work done on their water lines or tapin fees, which are costly. In terms of air quality, I am working to protect the tree canopy in District 2.

PITTSBURGH CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 4

GREEN

(Vote for One in your district)

CONNOR T. MULVANEY

DEMOCRATIC

Party: Green Biographical Info: Last Name: Mulvaney First Name: Connor Middle Name: Thomas Campaign Email: connorforpgh@ gmail.com Campaign Web Site: http://conCONNOR T. nor4pgh.com MULVANEY Facebook: @connorforpgh Twitter: @ConnorMulvaney District: 4 Education: BA from Point Park University, 2015 MSUS from Chatham University, 2019 Qualifications for office: Co-founder of South Hills Safe Streets, Worked on the Re-Imagine Beaver County project Questions: Q: What are your top three priorities for this office?

A: I will fight for a city budget that reflects the needs of its residents. My campaign has been surveying residents about the issues they care about and I will continue to listen to them after assuming office, even if that means physically bringing them into the City County Building to have their voices heard directly. I will also address our dangerous crumbling and poorly designed infrastructure so that it is safe and easy to use for all residents, whether they be pedestrians, bicyclists, or motorists. We also need to prepare our city for future public health, environmental, and economic crises by ensuring all residents have basic necessities (healthcare, housing, clean air/water) and our neighborhoods have sustainable local economies.

Q: What role do you see for your municipal government in interacting with Allegheny County Council?

A: With Pittsburgh being the largest population and economic center in Allegheny County, it’s only natural that Pittsburgh’s City Council should work closely with the County government. In particular, I would push the County to invest more in transit, expanding it, electrifying it, and making it more accessible for people with disabilities.

Q: How would you propose addressing the water, air quality and other infrastructure concerns of your residents?

A: We need to accelerate the work on removing lead from our water and defending our public utilities from threats of privatisation. As a City Councilperson I would advocate for stronger regulations on the big industrial polluters in our region which contribute the most to our ongoing air pollution crisis. In the city, we can work on lowering the combined emissions of vehicles. We also have an immense issue with flooding and combined sewer overflow. We can reduce these issues in a major way by implementing green infrastructure. Final-

ANTHONY COGHILL Party: Dem Biographical Info: Last Name: Coghill First Name: Anthony Mailing Address: 2414 Wenzell Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15216 Campaign Email: coghilldistrict4@gmail.com Campaign Web Site: http://anthonycoghill.com/index.html Facebook: https://www.faceANTHONY COGHILL book.com/ReElectAnthonyCoghill District: Pittsburgh City Council District 4 Education: Brashear High School Qualifications for office: I have been involved in public service since 2005 when I began working for State Senator Wayne Fontana and since then have become Chair of the 19th Ward of the Allegheny County Democratic Party. I have also been hard at work the last three years as the current City Councilmember.

Q: What are your top three priorities for this office?

A: • Continue re investing in our public works department by right sizing the fleet and making sure that our employees have the right equipment they need to do their jobs. • Creating economic opportunities for all residents is another top priority for me. By focusing on supporting and promoting small businesses we foster economic growth that benefits the community with thriving business districts and small businesses owned by neighborhood residents.

• I will also continue advocating for and improving our parks. I led the fight against the disastrous Parks Tax and made sure this money would stay in the control of taxpayers. I have also made countless improvements to our parks by steering investment into facilities and equipment.

Q: What role do you see for your municipal government in interacting with Allegheny County Council?

A: I see the role between the City of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County Council as one of cooperation. I have a great relationship with Councilman Palmosina and have been able to work cooperatively with him anytime I’ve needed assistance. I have said before that I am always willing to work with anyone who wants to help improve District 4 and I mean that.

Q: How would you propose addressing the water, air quality and other infrastructure

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

13

ly, we need to repair and replace the roads, sidewalks, concerns of your residents? and steps that have been neglected and crumbling for A: I’ve been working hard to address these con- years. These are immense safety hazards to the public cerns and because of the partnerships I have formed and make getting around difficult and dangerous. the infrastructure needs in the district have been getting addressed in ways that didn’t happen under the previous Councilperson. I intend to keep fosterPITTSBURGH CITY ing these partnerships with other elected officials as well because many of these problems cannot be COUNCIL DISTRICT 6 solved by a single individual, but by bringing to(Vote for One in your district) gether of team of people willing to work towards solving complicated issues. By partnering with our DEMOCRATIC State and Regional leaders we can identify sources of funding and enforcement that will continue to see ROBERT DANIEL LAVELLE improvements in our regions water and air quality.

Party: Dem

PITTSBURGH CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 8 (Vote for One in your district)

DEMOCRATIC ERIKA STRASSBURGER Party: Dem Biographical Info: Last Name: Strassburger First Name: Erika Mailing Address: 1533 Valmont St, Pittsburgh PA 15217 Campaign Phone: 412-7216564 Campaign Email: info@voteerika.com ERIKA STRASSCampaign Web Site: http://voBURGER teerika.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erikaforcouncil Twitter: https://twitter.com/erikastrassbrgr District: 8 Education: Bucknell University, degrees in Environmental Studies and International Relations Qualifications for office: Environment advocate for 9+ years w/ Penn Environment and New Hampshire Environment Former Chief of Staff to Councilperson Gilman 2 years as District 8 Councilperson Vice-Chair of PWSA Q: What are your top three priorities for this office?

A: It is my responsibility in part to help restore public trust by creating an office where constituents can voice their opinions, hear from their Council Member regularly, and can trust her words while feeling seen and respected. I aim to set an example for other City officials to become more transparent.

Second, I will fight for a future of policies and inclusive job opportunities in our region that contribute to healthy air and water with fair wages for workers. Third, I will continue passing legislation and advocating at other levels of government to ensure everyone is treated equally.

Q: What role do you see for your municipal government in interacting with Allegheny County Council?

A: I will focus on environmental justice, improving our public schools, and ensuring our economy works for everyone. Our most marginalized communities are victims of gross environmental mistreatment by big corporations. We need legislation and enforcement to improve water and air quality no matter your zip code. Our public schools show clear opportunity gaps for children of color and of low income—Council needs to work with the School

14 OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

VOTERS GUIDE 2021

Board to share resources in order to create a more just educational system. Finally, I plan to provide uplift small businesses owned by women, LGBT+ and BIPOC folx.

Q: How would you propose addressing the water, air quality and other infrastructure concerns of your residents?

A: We need to focus more on underlying causes of crime and violence as opposed to the symptoms. In part, this can be accomplished by creating alternatives to policing such as training other first responders to respond to matters involving drug addiction, mental health emergencies, and more. All in all, we need a shift away from policing as we know it altogether. To do this, states and cities need more control over who is hired, disciplined, and fired, and what the culture of police forces prioritizes. The future version cannot take hold while police unions wield as much power as they do.

PITTSBURGH SCHOOL DIRECTOR, DISTRICT 1 (Vote for One in your district) School Directors are elected on behalf of the community to oversee the education of students in their jurisdiction. They serve as agents of the state legislature. They are responsible for curriculum and instruction management, all finances including development of annual budgets and levying of taxes and issuance of debt obligations when necessary; personnel; legal matters; management of facilities; and transportation of students as appropriate.

Schools may includes pre-K and career and technical schools. The school board consists of nine members who serve four-year terms of office without pay.

TERM OF OFFICE: 4 years

NO SALARY

DEMOCRATIC SYLVIA C. WILSON Party: Dem, Rep Biographical Info: Last Name: Wilson First Name: Sylvia Middle Name: C. Mailing Address: Sylvia Wilson PO Box 4812 Campaign Phone: 412.927.6067 Campaign Email: d1@sylviSYLVIA C. WILSON acwilson.com Campaign Web Site: http://sylviacwilson.com Facebook: Re-Elect Sylvia C. Wilson@D1for2021 Twitter: @SylviaCWilson District: 1 Education: Pittsburgh Public Schools - Peabody Carnegie Mellon University - BA University of Pittsburgh – Med Qualifications for office: Retired teacher with Pittsburgh Public Schools; in second term on school board; participates in on-going professional development for school directors; Q: The pandemic has highlighted the significant disparity in educational delivery in districts from no in-person learning, to hybrid models to full time in-person sessions resulting in uneven student performance. As schools reopen, how would you propose to assess student achievement and to remedy the loss of learning for so many students?

A: Students must be met at their level initially

to determine what they know and build upon that based on grade level and curriculum. Then attention has to be given to enhance and enrich their educational experiences. More time alone doesn’t do it, it’s the types of activities provided and materials used (and with interest) and the educational rigor used which will bring about the desired results.

Q: Social and racial justice issues have become a concern for all school districts, many of which have instituted anti-bullying programs to help address these issues. What kinds of criteria would you propose to measure the effectiveness of these campaigns and progress toward improvement?

A: Anti-bullying policies have existed in Pittsburgh Public schools for quite some time. It is important that the policies be applied and adhered to consistently across the district. Incidents and/or complaints and resulting actions must be viewed to see that district policies are being followed. If not, then those schools not compliant must be given additional training and oversight.

Q: Pennsylvania currently allows parents to choose whether their children attend public schools, charter, or cyber-charter schools with funding provided by state and local opponents of all of these options. Where do you stand and explain your position.

A: Public schools educate all children - they do not get to choose which children they will teach. Charters were to be innovative, to become infused into the district. They have not shown the way. Charter and cyber schools should adhere to the same guidelines as regular comprehensive public schools. Public schools must disclose their finances and budget.

There is no requirement to publicly show the use of tax dollars by charters and cyber schools. Charter schools and cyber schools have boards, but they are not elected. They are using public dollars, this should be publicly disclosed as well. Quite a few charters and cyber schools are run by profit making companies. Again, they should not be allowed to make a profit using tax dollars.

REPUBLICAN Sylvia C. Wilson – See Response Above

PITTSBURGH SCHOOL DIRECTOR, DISTRICT 3 (Vote for One in your district) SALA UDIN Party: Dem

PITTSBURGH SCHOOL DIRECTOR, DISTRICT 5 (Vote for One in your district)

DEMOCRATIC TRACEY REED Party: Dem Biographical Info: Last Name: Reed First Name: Tracey Middle Name: Annette Mailing Address: 3441 Beechwood Blvd. Pittsburgh,

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

PA 15217 Campaign Phone: 412.692.1906 Campaign Email: tracey4district5@gmail.com Campaign Web Site: http://tracey4pps.com Facebook: Tracey4PPS Education: B.A. Secondary Education, English (University of Pittsburgh) M.A. Public Administration TRACEY REED (University of Virginia) Ph.D. Education Policy Studies (University of Virginia) Qualifications for office: I was a high school English teacher. I have a Ph.D. in Education Policy. I have spent 13 years in PPS with my two children.

Questions: Q: The pandemic has highlighted the significant disparity in educational delivery in districts from no in-person learning, to hybrid models to full time in-person sessions resulting in uneven student performance. As schools reopen, how would you propose to assess student achievement and to remedy the loss of learning for so many students?

A: Formative assessments should be used to help educators understand where students are academically and with which concepts they are struggling. These assessments should be low stakes and casual and can come in the form of a quiz or even a conversation. The results should guide educators’ practice to address students’ individual and collective academic needs. Addressing learning loss will require cooperative effort between educators, communities, families, and students. In addition to learning loss, it is imperative that we also focus on students’ and educators’ social and emotional needs as they return to school.

Q: Social and racial justice issues have become a concern for all school districts, many of which have instituted anti-bullying programs to help address these issues. What kinds of criteria would you propose to measure the effectiveness of these campaigns and progress toward improvement?

A: I would determine the effectiveness of anti-bullying efforts by taking stock of changes in students’ attitudes about how best to treat one another. I would also pay attention to the number of reported bullying incidents. Interestingly, sometimes if anti-bullying programs are effective, the reported incidents may increase as students’ understanding that bullying is inappropriate rises and they become empowered to report bullying. A focus on anti-bullying to address racial and social justice issues seems short-sighted. Many racial and social justice issues are systemic and do not show up as interpersonal conflict between students.

Q: Pennsylvania currently allows parents to choose whether their children attend public schools, charter, or cyber-charter schools with funding provided by state and local opponents of all of these options. Where do you stand and explain your position.

A: I am in favor of impactful, high-quality schools for all children in our district. All schools should be held to high standards and be accountable for student outcomes. Seventy percent of Pittsburgh families choose a school other than their feeder school for their children.

White families choose primarily private and magnet schools, and Black families mainly choose district, magnet, and charter schools. The families of the 5,000, mostly Black children who attend charter schools, live in our district, pay taxes, and deserve to send their children to schools that work for them. Our district has historically under-served low-income and Black children. It is imperative that families have options about which they can feel confident.

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

TERRY KENNEDY Party: Dem, Rep Biographical Info: Last Name: Kennedy First Name: Terry Middle Name: Ann Mailing Address: 4335 Saline Street Pittsburgh, PA 15217 Campaign Phone: 412-5766106 Campaign Email: FriendsOfT- TERRY KENNEDY erryKennedy@gmail.com Campaign Web Site: http:// www.facebook.com/FriendsOfTerryKennedy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FriendsOfTerryKennedy District: Pittsburgh Public Schools, District 5 Education: 1983 Carnegie-Mellon University B.S. in Applied Mathematics, Computer Science track Qualifications for office: 20+ years PPS volunteer involvement in early intervention, special & gifted education, magnet programs, assistive technology, & CITY Connections. Board member since 2013; 2nd VP 3 times; chair/co-chair of Policy, Business/Finance, Safety & Operations, Negotiations, & Personnel committees.

Q: The pandemic has highlighted the significant disparity in educational delivery in districts from no in-person learning, to hybrid models to full time in-person sessions resulting in uneven student performance. As schools reopen, how would you propose to assess student achievement and to remedy the loss of learning for so many students?

A: The District is continuously assessing student achievement using multiple measures. The summer BOOST program is a start to remedy learning loss and will be offered to the students most at risk for learning loss. Planning for other supports and programs is in process. Assessment of each student’s needs should occur early in the 21-22 school year to determine the appropriate supports needed to help each student to overcome the loss.

Q: Social and racial justice issues have become a concern for all school districts, many of which have instituted anti-bullying programs to help address these issues. What kinds of criteria would you propose to measure the effectiveness of these campaigns and progress toward improvement?

A: I am a firm believer in restorative justice. I believe it needs to be used as the primary method to address all issues, and to help the affected students and staff to move beyond the incident(s) that prompted the use of restorative justice. Discipline data will be used to measure the effectiveness. A reduction in disciplinary actions is the expected positive outcome.

Q: Pennsylvania currently allows parents to choose whether their children attend public schools, charter, or cyber-charter schools with funding provided by state and local opponents of all of these options. Where do you stand and explain your position.

A: Parents/guardians have a right to select the best option for their children. The following reforms are needed due to the old & unfair charter school law that harms public school students. I believe funding formulas need to be fair. The rules that govern expenditures of the public schools must be equally applied to charter schools. I also believe the tuition charge to a district for a student with an IEP attending a charter school must reflect the cost of implementing the IEP. I propose a flat tuition rate

VOTERS GUIDE 2021

charged for each student, regardless of a student’s school district, with the IEP implementation cost added for each student with an IEP. Money not used by a charter school to educate a student should be returned to the school district.

REPUBLICAN Terry Kennedy – See Response Above

PITTSBURGH SCHOOL DIRECTOR, DISTRICT 7 (Vote for One in your district)

DEMOCRATIC JAMIE PIOTROWSKI Party: Dem Biographical Info: Last Name: Piotrowski First Name: Jamie Middle Name: Suzanne Mailing Address: 2316 Patterson Street Pittsburgh PA, 15203 Campaign Phone: 412-853-0445 Campaign Email: jamiespio- JAMIE PIOTROWSKI trowski@gmail.com Campaign Web Site: http://www. jamieforschoolboard.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jamie4SchoolBoard Twitter: https://twitter.com/JamiePio_Pgh District: 7 Education: Waynesburg University Bachelor of Arts Sociology-Family Studies University of Pittsburgh Master of Social Work University of Pittsburgh Master of International Development Qualifications for office: Jamie is a licensed social worker in Pennsylvania and has dedicated her career to working directly with vulnerable communities helping them fight for and access valuable resources. Endorsed by State Rep Jessica Benham, Senator Wayne Fontana, the Pittsburgh Federation of Teachers, among others.

Q: The pandemic has highlighted the significant disparity in educational delivery in districts from no in-person learning, to hybrid models to full time in-person sessions resulting in uneven student performance. As schools reopen, how would you propose to assess student achievement and to remedy the loss of learning for so many students?

A: Covid-19 disproportionately impacts our Black and brown students. While students learn from home out of necessity or by choice, we must close the digital gap and ensure students have the appropriate equipment to access their classrooms and resources; as the return to in-person learning occurs, vulnerable students should be prioritized, with appropriate safety protocols in place to keep them safe from possible infection. I will advocate for a holistic learning model for our students and strengthen additional opportunities for social-emotional, and academic growth in our community schools and Summer programs.

Q: Social and racial justice issues have become a concern for all school districts, many of which have instituted anti-bullying programs to help address these issues. What kinds of criteria would you propose to measure the effectiveness of these campaigns and progress toward improvement?

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

15

A: It is important that our teachers and staff are trained to recognize the signs of bullying, students have access to support services and opportunities for student-adult communication, and that we utilize an inclusive curriculum that reflects our student body and creates a learning environment of respect. We must utilize evidence based and data informed intervention materials and programs and utilize input from leading advocacy groups. These methods must also be adapted for online learning and social media usage to protect our students from bullying and harassment while online, outside of regular school hours.

Q: Pennsylvania currently allows parents to choose whether their children attend public schools, charter, or cyber-charter schools with funding provided by state and local opponents of all of these options. Where do you stand and explain your position.

A: We should focus on targeted and intentional improvements and advocate for charter reform at the state level to ensure all of our students, regardless of their learning path, have access to a high-quality, education. The state’s tuition rates for cyber and special education need to be reevaluated to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent equitably and effectively. Charter schools are not held to the same standards as traditional public schools and there are not mechanisms in place to hold them accountable to communities. Charter school law must be reformed to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse of taxpayer dollars.

PITTSBURGH SCHOOL DIRECTOR, DISTRICT 9 (Vote for One in your district)

DEMOCRATIC GENE WALKER Party: Dem Biographical Info: Last Name: Walker First Name: Gene Mailing Address: 1408 Termon Ave Pittsburgh, Pa 15212 Campaign Phone: 570-466-6338 Campaign Email: genewalkerfordistrict9@gmail.com GENE WALKER Campaign Web Site: http://genewalkerfordistrict9.org Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/GeneWalkerforDistrict9 Twitter: https://twitter.com/GeneWalker4PPS Education: PPS Grad- Peabody High School Bachelors of Science - Bloomsburg University Q: The pandemic has highlighted the significant disparity in educational delivery in districts from no in-person learning, to hybrid models to full time in-person sessions resulting in uneven student performance. As schools reopen, how would you propose to assess student achievement and to remedy the loss of learning for so many students?

A: I believe the Superintendent and his staff must create a comprehensive plan to help students catch up on what was lost over the last year. The instruction over the last 12-18 weeks has been much improved, but it is not enough. There should be efforts to partner with afterschool and summer youth programs to integrate some learning opportunities with curriculum provided by the district that targets the students most in need. The district already has a summer school format, but I would like to see them expand their reach

16

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

VOTERS GUIDE 2021

reach by going to where the students are an providing the much-needed personal instruction that is need.

Q: Social and racial justice issues have become a concern for all school districts, many of which have instituted anti-bullying programs to help address these issues. What kinds of criteria would you propose to measure the effectiveness of these campaigns and progress toward improvement?

A: Social and racial justice continue to be an area where school districts must improve. There are initiatives that begin to address the problem such as the K-2 suspension ban and the implementation of restorative justice practices. I would look to measure the effectiveness of these and other programs by looking at the comparative data, looking at the rate of suspensions or disciplinary referrals, taking a specific look at the race, ethnic, and gender spreads for each area. Success will show reductions in all areas and a narrowing gap across the board. The district must have a comprehensive and detailed plan with trackable metrics for any plan that is introduced.

Q: Pennsylvania currently allows parents to choose whether their children attend public schools, charter, or cyber-charter schools with funding provided by state and local opponents of all of these options. Where do you stand and explain your position.

A: I fully support a parent’s right and ability to find the best possible education for their child. As families leave the district in pursuit of better schools, we must look internally at how we can improve the schools within PPS. We must increase academic opportunities, address racial disparities in achievement and discipline, and increase our investment in neighborhood schools in order to bring families back to the district.

In the meantime we also need to advocate for state legislation that will reform the funding formula for charter schools, especially cyber schools, to create a more equitable distribution of public tax dollars and reduce the financial strain on our district.

REPUBLICAN (Vote for One) VERONICA M. EDWARDS Party: Rep Biographical Info: Last Name: Edwards First Name: Veronica Middle Name: M Mailing Address: 3774 Haven Street Pittsburgh, Pa. 15204 Campaign Phone: (412)6085625 VERONICA M. Campaign Email: EdwardsEDWARDS fordistrict9@gmail.com Facebook: Veronica Edwards Twitter: N/A District: vedwards1@pghschools.org Education: Leadership Pittsburgh XX Carlow University Gladstone High School Qualifications for office: Currently the incumbent in District 9 First African American to Serve Led the charge to return students safely back to school during a pandemic Hosted a Community Vaccination Clinic Delivered Covid 19 Essentials to Crafton Heights and Mountain View Communities Q: The pandemic has highlighted the significant disparity in educational delivery in districts from no in-person learning, to hybrid models to full time in-person sessions resulting in uneven student performance. As schools reopen, how would you propose to assess student achievement and to remedy the loss of learning for so many students?

A: Because we are responding to COVID-19, there are no concrete answers. The District has

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

to use all of our resources to reach students.

Public assessments and private assessments to determine where students presently stand.!Educational resources to pull them up.!Dedicated teachers to perform assessments and District staff to give students what they need to grow, live and learn to build quality lives. It will take teamwork to make the dream work. Let’s go!

Q: Social and racial justice issues have become a concern for all school districts, many of which have instituted anti-bullying programs to help address these issues.

What kinds of criteria would you propose to measure the effectiveness of these campaigns and progress toward improvement?

A: I believe anti-bullying is a bandaid. We need to address anti-racism. The minds and emotions built up in people for decades is no longer accepted by today’s young people. America and our Cities are dealing with young people who refuse to be held down because of the color of their skin. They want to be educated to their fullest extent to lead quality lives. Let’s deal with the real problems of today.

Q: Pennsylvania currently allows parents to choose whether their children attend public schools, charter, or cyber-charter schools with funding provided by state and local opponents of all of these options.

Where do you stand and explain your position.

A: I stand on providing students opportunities to educate and grow their lives. Parents are a child’s first teacher. Whatever they do and see what’s best for them is alright with me!

Voters Guide Municipal Election November 2, 2021

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

VOTERS GUIDE 2021

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021 17

JUDGE OF THE SUPERIOR COURT RETENTION ELECTION 1

JUDGE OF THE COMMONWEALTH COURT RETENTION ELECTION 2

Description: Shall JOHN T. BENDER be retained for an additional term as Judge of the Superior Court of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania?

Official Judicial Retention According to www.pacourts.us, retention is a nonpolitical method of reelecting Pennsylvania judges. It is intended to be politically neutral and does not require judges to engage in campaigning against other candidates.

Retention is specifically designed to keep judges out of the political fray while at the same time holding them accountable to the voters based on their overall records and performance in office. The intent is to provide a fair and nonpartisan way for the public to judge its judges.

The names of the candidates are listed at the end of the ballot, apart from other offices.

No political affiliation is listed for retention candidates.

PA Bar Association ratings and information for incumbent judges are available at www.pavotesmart.com/current-judicial-ratings

Description: Shall RENEE COHN JUBELIRER be retained for an additional term as Judge of Commonwealth Court of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania?

Official Judicial Retention According to www.pacourts.us, retention is a nonpolitical method of reelecting Pennsylvania judges. It is intended to be politically neutral and does not require judges to engage in campaigning against other candidates.

Retention is specifically designed to keep judges out of the political fray while at the same time holding them accountable to the voters based on their overall records and performance in office. The intent is to provide a fair and nonpartisan way for the public to judge its judges.

The names of the candidates are listed at the end of the ballot, apart from other offices.

No political affiliation is listed for retention candidates.

PA Bar Association ratings and information for incumbent judges are available at www.pavotesmart.com/current-judicial-ratings

Yes - For the Measure No - Against the Measure

JUDGE OF THE SUPERIOR COURT RETENTION ELECTION 2 Description: Shall MARY JANE BOWES be retained for an additional term as Judge of the Superior Court of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania?

Official Judicial Retention According to www.pacourts.us, retention is a nonpolitical method of reelecting Pennsylvania judges. It is intended to be politically neutral and does not require judges to engage in campaigning against other candidates.

Retention is specifically designed to keep judges out of the political fray while at the same time holding them accountable to the voters based on their overall records and performance in office. The intent is to provide a fair and nonpartisan way for the public to judge its judges.

The names of the candidates are listed at the end of the ballot, apart from other offices.

No political affiliation is listed for retention candidates.

PA Bar Association ratings and information for incumbent judges are available at www.pavotesmart.com/current-judicial-ratings Yes - For the Measure No - Against the Measure

JUDGE OF THE COMMONWEALTH COURT RETENTION ELECTION 1 Description: Shall ANNE COVEY be retained for an additional term as Judge of Commonwealth Court of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania?

Official Judicial Retention According to www.pacourts.us, retention is a nonpolitical method of reelecting Pennsylvania judges. It is intended to be politically neutral and does not require judges to engage in campaigning against other candidates.

Retention is specifically designed to keep judges out of the political fray while at the same time holding them accountable to the voters based on their overall records and performance in office. The intent is to provide a fair and nonpartisan way for the public to judge its judges.

The names of the candidates are listed at the end of the ballot, apart from other offices.

No political affiliation is listed for retention candidates.

PA Bar Association ratings and information for incumbent judges are available at www.pavotesmart.com/current-judicial-ratings Yes - For the Measure No - Against the Measure

Yes - For the Measure No - Against the Measure

JUDGE OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS RETENTION ELECTION RETENTION ELECTION 1 JUDGE OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS RETENTION ELECTION 2 Description: Shall ALEXANDER P. BICKET be retained for an additional term as Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, Region 5 Official Judicial Retention According to www.pacourts.us, retention is a nonpolitical method of reelecting Pennsylvania judges. It is intended to be politically neutral and does not require judges to engage in campaigning against other candidates. Retention is specifically designed to keep judges out of the political fray while at the same time holding them accountable to the voters based on their overall records and performance in office.

The intent is to provide a fair and nonpartisan way for the public to judge its judges.

The names of the candidates are listed at the end of the ballot, apart from other offices.

No political affiliation is listed for retention candidates.

The Allegheny County Bar Association ratings and information for incumbent judges are available at https://www.judicialvote2021.org/retention-election-ratings.

Yes - For the Measure No - Against the Measure

18

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

VOTERS GUIDE 2021

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

cal fray while at the same time holding them accountable to the voters based on their overall records and performance in office. The intent is to provide a fair and nonpartisan way for the public to judge its judges.

The names of the candidates are listed at the end of the ballot, apart from other offices.

No political affiliation is listed for retention candidates.

Description: The Allegheny County Bar Association ratings and information for incumbent JUDGE OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS RETENTION ELEC- judges are available at https://www.judicialvote2021.org/retention-election-ratTION 2 ings.

Shall RANDY TODD be retained for an additional term as Judge of the Court of Common Pleas, Region 5 Yes - For the Measure Official Judicial Retention No - Against the Measure According to www.pacourts.us, retention is a nonpolitical method of reelecting Pennsylvania judges. It is intended to be politically neutral and does not require judges to engage in campaigning against other candidates.

Retention is specifically designed to keep judges out of the politi-

JUDGE OF THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS RETENTION ELECTION RETENTION ELECTION 2

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

VOTERS GUIDE 2021

VOTE 2021

OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

19

20 OCTOBER 13-19, 2021

VOTERS GUIDE 2021

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER