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www.newpittsburghcourier.com Vol. 112 No. 49 Two Sections

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DECEMBER 8-14, 2021

THE ‘SING-A-LONG PARTY’

Are you for or against Wilkinsburg merging with Pittsburgh?

Public hearings are taking place

by Charlie Wolfson PublicSource

DANYELLE CHEATHAM, with her daughter, Alaura Williams, at the 2021 “Sing-A-Long Party,” held, Nov. 21, at the DoubleTree Hotel in Monroeville. Kids at the event were treated to seeing some of their favorite characters in costume. For more photos, see Pages A4-5, and on the Courier’s website, www.newpittsburghcourier.com. (Photo by Rob Taylor Jr.)

Pittsburgh City Council heard arguments for and against the annexation of Wilkinsburg during its first public hearing on the issue Saturday, Dec. 4. More than 30 speakers were split on the issue, though a majority favored moving the process forward.

“Wilkinsburg simply has too many challenges to handle by itself,” said Derrick Tillman, a Wilkinsburg resident who spoke at the hearing. “I know Pittsburgh is not perfect, but it’s constantly moving in the right direction. Wilkinsburg needs help, and I

believe that Pittsburgh is poised to help.”

The push to annex Wilkinsburg is coming from the Wilkinsburg Community Development Corporation (WCDC). The group launched a similar effort in the summer, which stalled because council members in both municipalities wanted more time to learn about the idea.

Nineteen speakers favored annexation, or at least allowing a referendum vote, and 12 opposed moving the process forward.

Tracey Evans, the WCDC executive director, made SEE WILKINSBURG A7

Tickets still available for Courier’s ‘Women of Excellence’ awards ceremony, Dec. 16 50 Black women to be honored at Sheraton Station Square

by Rob Taylor Jr. Courier Staff Writer

One woman said she was “shocked,” another woman “cried,” upon learning that they were named a New Pittsburgh Courier “Woman of Excellence.”

The longstanding “Women of Excellence” awards ceremony is back this year after a year hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic. This year’s event will take place, Thursday, Dec. 16, from 6 to 9 p.m., at the Sheraton Hotel Station Square. Hundreds are

expected to fill the ballroom to cheer on the 50 African American women that comprise the Courier’s “Women of Excellence Class of 2021.”

The list includes legacy honoree Lynne Hayes-Freeland, who recently announced her semi-retirement from the Pittsburgh media scene.

Her 45-year career in Pittsburgh television and radio is nearly unparalleled.

LaKeisha “Kiki” Brown, herself a media personality, formerly on WAMO radio in Pittsburgh and other

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cities such as Baltimore, was shocked upon hearing she was named a Courier “Woman of Excellence” in 2018. “I don’t really think of myself as someone who’s done extraordinary work, or above-and-beyond work,” she told the Courier in an exclusive interview, Dec. 3. “I just do the work that I love.”

Brown currently has her own company, Nice 2 Media Marketing, and hosts “What’s Good in Your Hood,” a weekly program that features Pittsburgh’s Black movers and shakers, on kdkaradio.com. She’s also the lead host of the “Hey Girl Hey” podcast, which airs on urbanmediatoday.com.

“It’s empowering, it’s inspiring, it’s motivating,” Brown said to be in a ho-

tel ballroom with dozens of other Black women being honored for their talents and contributions to the Pittsburgh region. “You’re not the only person who’s working hard. It’s an entire village and you’re not alone, and now you have this new sisterhood. These people cover a tremendous amount of work in their industries.”

Fawn Walker Montgomery was a fellow member of the 2018 “Women of Excellence” class that was honored at the Wyndham Grand Hotel, Downtown.

She’s the co-founder and CEO of Take Action Mon Valley, an advocacy organization committed to bettering the lives of African Americans in McKeesport, SEE W.O.E. A8

FAWN WALKER-MONTGOMERY, a member of the Courier’s “Women of Excellence” Class of 2018.

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NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Heinz Endowments awards grants totaling $5.4 million to 16 Black cultural organizations The Heinz Endowments, in collaboration with the POISE Foundation, on Dec. 2 announced its selection of 16 cultural organizations that are the first grant recipients through the Pittsburgh’s Cultural Treasures program the Endowments launched this summer. The amount of the awards totals $5.4 million.

The organizations chosen were identified as leaders in producing work that centers and seeks to advance the people and culture of Black communities in southwestern Pennsylvania.

They will receive unrestricted grants ranging from $150,000 to $1 million, and have been invited to participate in additional programming to further support and

honor Black cultural institutions across the region.

“Pittsburgh’s Cultural Treasures is a wonderful opportunity not only to support and celebrate cultural organizations that offer so much to southwestern Pennsylvania, but also to encourage growth within those organizations and collaboration among them,” Heinz Endowments President Grant Oliphant said in a release. “We are grateful to be able to invest like this in the future of local Black cultural organizations and the amazing contributions they will continue making to our region.”

Pittsburgh’s Cultural Treasures is part of America’s Cultural Treasures, a national initiative by the Ford Founda-

tion to increase support to arts groups and cultural organizations representing communities of color across the U.S. The Endowments was among 10 regional foundation partners in seven cities that Ford selected to join the initiative, also providing each region with $5 million in funds to develop a regional Cultural Treasures program.

The Endowments has matched those funds with an additional $5 million to create a $10 million program, which will run four years and initially focus on Blackled cultural organizations, representing the largest community of color in the region. The Ford Foundation grant and the Endowments’ matching contribution are housed at the Pitts-

burgh-based POISE Foundation, America’s oldest Black community foundation, which also is a partner in designing and managing the program. The Endowments will explore ways to expand the work to other arts and cultural groups of color in the future.

For now, the program is designed to elevate the contributions and accomplishments of Blackled organizations in the Pittsburgh region, to recognize their perseverance and to affirm their self-determined strategies for success.

The 16 groups receiving the first and largest grants through Pittsburgh’s Cultural Treasures were selected from among 165 Black-led organizations identified by local foundations and

cultural leaders. A steering committee of representatives from local and national philanthropies and cultural organizations developed criteria for evaluating the list of organizations. After reviewing the identified groups, the committee presented recommendations to the Endowments, which made the final selections considering the committee’s recommendations along with the foundation’s philanthropic goals and grantmaking priorities.

“Black ingenuity, creativity and grit are the bedrocks of this country – from plantations to factory production lines and proscenium stages,” said Endowments Arts & Culture Program Officer Shaunda McDill in a release. “Scarcity often creates a challenging environment within which to find joy and celebration.

However, Black people continue to do it. We hope we will all find both joy and an opportunity to celebrate with this announcement.

There is more work to be done, more resources to be raised and more counties we need to connect with in order to truly celebrate and honor the artistic and cultural contributions from which we all benefit.”

Endowments Creativity Vice President Janet Sarbaugh said in making the final decision on the first group of grantees, Endowments staff looked for organizations that had undeniable legacies of stewarding and sustaining an arts or cultural tradition from the African Diaspora or as part of African American culture.

“These cultural treasures are diverse in their connections to Black culture, to artistic disciplines, in their longevity, and in many other ways,” Ms. Sarbaugh said in a release. “What they have in common is a commitment to ensuring the presence of Black arts and culture in our city and region. They represent organizations that have long been important to both The Heinz Endowments and to the community. We are proud to support them and to continue to develop the next phases of the Pittsburgh’s Cultural Treasures program.”

The organizations and the grant amounts they will receive are: 1Hood Media — $250,000

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Afrika Yetu— 150,000 Afro American Music Institute — $500,000 August Wilson African American Cultural Center — $1 million Balafon West African Dance Ensemble — $150,000 BOOM Concepts — $150,000 Hill Dance Academy Theatre — $500,000 Kelly Strayhorn Theater — $750,000 Kente Arts Alliance — $250,000 Legacy Arts Project — $250,000 Manchester Bidwell Corporation — $500,000 New Horizon Theater — $250,000 PearlArts Studios — $150,000 Pittsburgh Playwrights Theatre Company — $250,000 Ujamaa Collective— $150,000 Women of Visions — $150,000 Beyond establishing a steering committee and selecting this first group of awardees, the Pittsburgh’s Cultural Treasures initiative has included a public process for nominating community cultural treasures and round table conversations with local youth, Black media members, and leaders who traditionally support Blackled organizations.

CJAM Consulting, a New York-based, minority/women-owned firm helping the Endowments to structure and coordinate Pittsburgh’s Cultural Treasures, is working with community leaders to develop a digital asset map. The online reference tool will provide information about the many Black-led cultural organizations in southwestern Pennsylvania and their contributions to local Black communities.

Ideally, the community conversations and data gathered from the asset map will enhance connections between philanthropic organizations and these critical cultural groups as well as provide an additional platform that will honor the cultural organizations and their work both nationally and internationally.

Looking ahead, a collection of stories, historical moments, community memories will be gathered and local artists will be commissioned to commemorate and celebrate the people, places and moments that have contributed to the wealth of Black cultural amenities that helped shape the region.

Other plans for the initiative include a major investment in the creation and implementation of a unique capacity-building program for Black arts and cultural organizations in the southwestern Pennsylvania region. Also, special grants will be provided to a variety of cultural organizations in 2023 to combat more systemic challenges within the arts and cultural sector as part of subsequent phases of the Cultural Treasures initiative.

“While we are very excited about this first round of grant awards,” McDill said, “we also are looking ahead to what we hope will be a transformative impact of the entire Pittsburgh’s Cultural Treasures program on Black cultural organizations across southwestern Pennsylvania and on region’s cultural landscape overall.”

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THE ‘SING-A-LONG PARTY’...

NUMEROUS FAMILIES CAME OUT to the “Sing-A-Long Party” at the DoubleTree Hotel in Monroeville, Nov. 21, with kids loving their favorite characters in costume. (Photos by Rob Taylor Jr.)

TAYLA SMITH, with daughter Kes’Leigh Smith.

DANASIA STRONG, with daughter Demi Strong.

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...at the DoubleTree Hotel Monroeville

TEVIN PERRY, with son, Tai’Veon Perry, at the “Sing-A-Long Party” at the DoubleTree Hotel in Monroeville, Nov. 21. (Photos by Rob Taylor Jr.)

TIARA MONTGOMERY, with son, Ra’Shawn Walker.

NUMEROUS FAMILIES CAME OUT to the “Sing-A-Long Party” at the DoubleTree Hotel in Monroeville, Nov. 21, with kids loving their favorite characters in costume.

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HEALTH

DECEMBER 8-14, 2021

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

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

HIV/AIDS Stigma and Prevention This month’s “Take Charge of Your Health Today. Be Informed. Be Involved.” page addresses an important topic—the prevention of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), a virus that attacks the immune system and can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) if left untreated—and the decades-long stigma that surrounds those living with HIV/AIDS. While we have made significant progress as a society since the beginning of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, there is still a lot of secrecy, shame and discrimination surrounding HIV/AIDS. Stigma can lead to people not being open about their HIV status. In turn, this can lead to people possibly passing on the infection to unsuspecting sexual partner(s) or not receiving proper medical treatment sooner to help combat the disease. Even though infection rates are higher in communities of color, that’s due more to the social determinants of health meaning where you live, work and play impacts your health and quality of life.

In Allegheny County, the most recent HIV/AIDS statistics (from a 2017 report from the Allegheny County Health Department) state that the cumulative number of HIV cases reported from 1981 through December 2017 is 4,956. In 2017, there were 100 new cases of HIV reported in Allegheny County, which are 26 fewer cas-

ESTHER L. BUSH

es than reported in 2016. This downward trend is good news. We may have loved ones or know someone whose life has been affected by HIV/AIDS. The good news is there are now safe, effective medications that protect

people from contracting sexually transmitted infections like HIV in the first place. And there are now better, more effective drugs that allow individuals living with HIV to live long lives. Some of the most effective prevention and risk-reduction methods people can use to protect themselves from contracting HIV/AIDS is to use barriers during sexual encounters and not sharing needles. It is also important to get tested regularly, at least once a year—to always know their status.

As always, research and people participating in research are how we even have the HIV medications in the first place. Therefore, it is crucial for people of color to participate in research. Without our involvement, our voices will continue to be left unheard, and research won’t reflect our life experiences or properly address our concerns and needs.

Note: This will be the last Take Charge of Your Health article under Esther L. Bush’s leadership. Starting with the January 2022 article, Carlos T. Carter the new President and CEO of the Urban league of Greater of Greater Pittsburgh.

Information Source: https://www.alleghenycounty.us/ uploadedFiles/Allegheny_Home/Health_Department/ Health_Services/STD_and_HIV-AIDS_Clinic/2017STD-Report-Feb-11-2019.pdf

ILLUSTRATION: GETTY IMAGES

HIV/AIDS is no longer a death sentence With the introduction of antiretroviral drugs years ago, contracting the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is no longer the death sentence it used to be. But, even if people are living longer with HIV, the number of people infected in general, especially in populations that are most vulnerable to being infected, remains a concern. The goal of having no new infections is achievable partly by removing the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome, the chronic, life-threatening disease HIV can cause) and through successful prevention methods.

HIV can affect anyone regardless of sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, gender or age. However, misconceptions and assumptions about who gets the virus are still common. People make judgments about those who have HIV, how they got it or whether they “deserve” to have the virus.

“Having an infection of any sort isn’t a commentary on the kind of person you are or the value you have in society. It’s just an infection,” says Ken S. Ho, MD, MPH, assistant professor of medicine and medical director, Pitt Men’s Study, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. “Viruses don’t discriminate; they don’t follow our human perceptions of what ‘good’ or ‘bad’ are.”

HIV stigma can lead to discrimination, which can lead to a general unwillingness to discuss HIV at all. Secrecy about the virus is part of why people get or suffer needlessly from HIV. When people feel they cannot discuss HIV openly or reveal their status, they may not receive appropriate medical care—even when effective HIV treatment is available.

In addition to stigma, other factors may contribute to people living with HIV not getting the care they need.

For example, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that African Americans account

KEN S. HO, MD, MPH for a higher proportion of new HIV diagnoses and people with HIV compared to other races and ethnicities. But this disparity exists largely as a result of social determinants of health—the conditions in which people live, grow and work that are also affected by complex social and economic structures.

“Data show that Black and Brown communities are disproportionately affected by HIV,” says Dr. Ho. “Sometimes people take that statement and turn it into more stigma—as in, if you’re from a certain population, then

you must be doing something bad that makes your rates of HIV higher. That’s not true. In fact, higher rates of HIV boil down to things like the lack of health care access, including HIV prevention education, or mistrust of the medical community. These factors contribute to people not getting the testing, treatment or prevention they need to improve health or prevent HIV.” Fortunately, years of biomedical research has led to effective HIV prevention. In addition to using condoms to protect against HIV (and other sexually transmitted infections), pre-exposure prophylaxis—or PrEP—is medicine taken daily to prevent getting HIV from sex or injection drug use. The CDC reports that PrEP, when taken as prescribed, reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99% and reduces the risk of getting HIV by at least 74% in people who inject drugs. Even though there is a perception that only men who are gay take PrEP, Dr. Ho says that there is nothing about the concept of preventative medication that is specific to the gay population. He likens using PrEP to using a seatbelt—an essential preventative measure.

“We have effective ways to prevent and treat HIV, and it would be great to focus on them and how we can help vulnerable populations instead of stigmatizing people who want to talk about HIV or who have it,” says Dr. Ho. Another way to reduce HIV stigma is to become more informed about it and even help researchers learn more about the virus. The HIV Prevention Research Registry is open to people who are HIV-negative and HIV-positive. The registry exists to help researchers identify and contact people who may be able to participate in future research studies including HIV vaccine research. To learn more about the registry, contact Sherri Karas Certo, Pitt CRS clinical recruiter and community educator, at 412-383-1313 or sjk91@pitt.edu.

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Are you for or against Wilkinsburg merging with Pittsburgh?

Some Wilkinsburg residents like the idea, others say no way WILKINSBURG FROM A1

the case for annexation at the hearing by pointing out a number of trends in the borough that have not translated to population growth, such as an increased median home price and restoration of vacant properties. She maintains that the only way to attract new homeowners and businesses is to lower property taxes by joining Pittsburgh.

A number of Wilkinsburg residents spoke against annexation, with some citing distrust of the WCDC as a primary reason. Former borough council member China Lee said, “Instead of trying to correct the course and help Wilkinsburg, the WCDC has instead focused its efforts on this annexation without actual regard for what the residents want.”

Homeowners in Wilkinsburg would see their property taxes drop dramatically.

But questions remain. Many renters fear a tax increase, since the property tax decrease does not directly affect them and Pittsburgh has a higher income tax than Wilkinsburg.

“People are worried about being displaced,” said Michelle Dalton, a Wilkinsburg resident who has been organizing against the annexation effort. “For renters, the only change in money is going to be an increase in their

taxes if you don’t own property.”

Jody Harper Guy, who said her family has lived in Wilkinsburg since 1917, said she likes having a small municipal government. “I really favor the ability to speak, plan and partner with our elected leaders who are only blocks away.”

For annexation to occur, the WCDC must collect some 640 signatures from Wilkinsburg residents. Then, Pittsburgh City Council must signal its approval with a vote of at least five of its nine members. Finally, the question would go on the ballot in Wilkinsburg for the voters to decide, possibly as soon as the 2022 primary election.

The Pittsburgh Fire Department already serves Wilkinsburg, and the borough’s middle and high school students attend Pittsburgh Public Schools.

If annexation occurs, the Wilkinsburg School District would automatically be fully absorbed into Pittsburgh Public Schools.

It’s unclear if there are five Pittsburgh City Council members who would vote to send the issue to Wilkinsburg for a ballot referendum.

Council President Theresa Kail-Smith has said she opposes the idea and noted on Dec. 4 that annexing Wilkinsburg would divert resources and development from her district in the southwest of

the city. Councilman Bruce Kraus similarly worried that annexation would make resources for dealing with blighted property in the city even more scarce.

Council members Rev. Ricky Burgess, Deb Gross and Erika Strassburger left the door open to joining the two municipalities but said they may not be comfortable with the proposed process, which does not give an official say to Pittsburgh voters or Wilkinsburg’s elected council.

Pittsburgh City Councilman Anthony Coghill said he’s leaning toward favoring annexation after driving through the borough and seeing many blighted properties and vacant business buildings. He said a tax increase for renters may be “short term pain for long term gain” if the move promotes economic development in the community over time.

Councilman Corey O’Connor was not at the hearing but told WESA-FM (90.5) last week he favors annexation.

City Council will hold a post-agenda meeting on Thursday, Dec. 9, to further discuss the matter.

The Wilkinsburg Borough Council has in large part opposed annexation and went as far as to formally order the WCDC to “cease and desist,” which they have no legal authority to do. But one council member who spoke at the

Dec. 4 hearing, Ian Petrulli, said he favors annexation.

“The situation has not im-

proved and I don’t see it improving any time soon unless something new and drastic is

done, like joining the city and reducing our tax burden,” Petrulli said.

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Deadline to purchase tickets for upcoming ‘Women of Excellence’ is Friday, Dec. 10 W.O.E. FROM A1

Duquesne and the surrounding areas. She also does consulting for other advocacy groups.

“It felt humbling to be recognized by my peers in that way,” Montgomery told the Courier, Dec. 3. “This is an area (Pittsburgh) that is known for being one of the worst for Black people, especially Black women, in the country, so it actually felt really good.”

The Courier’s “Women of Excellence” celebration honors the most Black women at one time in Pittsburgh. One by one, each honoree’s name and professional title are voiced to the crowd, followed by the honoree walking up to the stage to receive their plaque. A photo is then taken of them, to be included in the Courier’s “Women of Excellence” recap edition a few weeks following the event.

For Dayna Delgado, the Homestead resident, she was shedding tears when she got the call some weeks ago that she was named a 2021 Woman of Excellence.

“I couldn’t believe it, espe-

cially from my upbringing,” she told the Courier, Dec. 3.

“I came from living down by the railroad tracks with river rats in Homestead past 7th Avenue. If you’re from Homestead then you knew what 7th Avenue was like back then.”

Delgado has been a professional photographer in Pittsburgh for over a decade. Her company, rebranded as “Weddings by Day,” now focuses on that big day for a couple, their wedding day. But being the official photographer for a wedding isn’t easy, Delgado said.

“You have to actually capture an essence between the couple,” she said. “The photographs have to tell the story, show the emotion and the love between the people. That is hard to do.”

Delgado said she’s photographed between 50 and 60 weddings in her career.

She also freelances for publications like the Courier and covers political events, such as get-togethers for state Rep. Jake Wheatley.

“A lot of times, we as Black women get a bad rap,” Delgado said. She said there’s

2018 HONOREES RUTHIE WALKER, VALERIE KINLOCH, MAMAR GELAYE

2019 HONOREES SONITA BELL, LISA SYLVESTER, TIMIRA RUSH

KIKI BROWN, A 2018 HONOREE a false notion that Black women don’t lift each other up. But events like the Courier’s “Women of Excellence” show that “we can all come together and give each other the props that we deserve,” Delgado said.

Delgado will be honored on Dec. 16 along with, among others, Gladys Jelks, assistant director/ programming director of Pittsburgh Community Television (21), Dr. Bonnie Young, associate professor at California University of Pennsylvania, Chandi Chapman, reporter at WTAE-TV (4), and Dr. Ter-

rie Griffin with the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania.

Tickets are still available for the Dec. 16 event. To purchase tickets, call 412481-8302, ext. 136. Ticket are $90, or $900 for a table of 10. The deadline to purchase tickets is Friday, Dec. 10.

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

RELIGION

DECEMBER 8-14, 2021 A9

Pittsburgh North Side Church of God celebrates its 97th church anniversary

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

THE PITTSBURGH NORTH SIDE CHURCH OF GOD celebrated its 97th church anniversary on Nov. 21. Pictured to the left is longtime Pastor Yvonne Burns, who always reiterates the mission of the church: “To provide a Christ-centered environment where men, women and children are educated, equipped and empowered as servant-leaders for the Kingdom of God.” The church is located at 1822 Chateau Street.

(Photos by Courier photographer J.L. Martello)

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.

Join our growing Praise and Worship Church Community!

REV. SHIRLEY CRAIG

REV. SHIRLEY CRAIG, REV. RODNEY HATFIELD pray over a church member.

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! We want to place your event in our Church Circuit weekly calendar!

Send info to: PASTOR YVONNE BURNS prays over a youth church member.

DEACON JIMMY HERRING

CHURCH USHERS

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BUSINESS New Pittsburgh Courier

Is invoking Emmett Till a disservice to history?

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Facing financial hardship?

Tips to avoid foreclosure

(StatePoint)—Life’s unexpected challenges can make meeting monthly mortgage payments difficult. The good news? Help is available to avoid foreclosure.

Indeed, Freddie Mac has completed more than 255,000 foreclosure prevention actions in 2021, according to the Federal Housing Finance Agency. Whether you’re currently behind on payments or foresee trouble ahead, Freddie Mac advises taking the following steps as quickly as possible to get back on track: Assess Your Situation Whether it’s due to unemployment, illness, natural disaster or other reasons, identifying the cause of your financial hardship and anticipating its duration are important. These factors can help determine the best solution for you. (A short-term hardship is over within 12 months. A longterm hardship extends beyond 12 months.)

Contact Your Servicer Your servicer—the company where you send mortgage payments—is your best resource throughout the process. They will provide you with the available mortgage relief options based on your particular situation, which typically begins with being placed in a temporary forbearance program. Remember, your servicer is there to help. If you think you’re going to have trouble paying your mortgage, don’t wait. Call them immediately! And if you’re already behind on your mortgage or currently in a workout option, respond to their outreach efforts to keep an open dialogue going throughout the process.

Know Your Options No matter where you stand, there are solutions. Here are some to consider: • Forbearance is an agreement between you and your loan servicer that either pauses or reduces monthly mortgage payments for a limited time. Consider forbearance if you’re currently unable to make payments but think you’ll be able to resume soon.

• With payment deferral,

missed mortgage payments move to the end of your loan term, but your monthly mortgage payment amount stays the same. Consider payment deferral if your hardship is resolved but you’re unable to repay missed mortgage payments as a lump sum or by increasing monthly payments.

Freddie Mac Flex Modification, for example, provides up to a 20 percent mortgage payment reduction that permanently changes one or more of the original terms of your mortgage, such as the interest rate and mortgage term. Ask your loan servicer whether this may be an option for you.

• With partial reinstatement, you pay a portion of missed mortgage payments as a lump sum. To pay off the rest, your loan servicer works with you to create a repayment plan.

• With full reinstatement, you pay the total owed mortgage payments as a lump sum, making your mortgage current. This a good choice if you can afford it.

• Refinancing your mortgage lowers your interest rate or replaces an adjustable-rate mortgage with a more affordable fixed-rate mortgage. This is a good choice if you’re current on payments but would benefit from reduced payments in the future.

This year, more than 600,000 homeowners with a Freddie Macbacked mortgage refinanced into a more affordable loan.

• COVID-19 relief is offered by many loan servicers to those struggling due to the pandemic.

• Of course, if homeownership is no longer affordable or desirable, there are options too. Short sale and deed-in-lieu, for example, can help you exit your home without facing the costs associated with foreclosure.

For more homeowner resources, visit My Home by Freddie Mac at myhome.freddiemac.com.

If you’re struggling to make mortgage payments, take action quickly. Doing so can help you prevent foreclosure and stay in your home.

How women entrepreneurs can plan for success ( S t a t e Po i n t ) — T h e nearly 13 million small businesses owned by women nationwide are essential to the U.S. economy. Accounting for 42 percent of U.S. small businesses, they employ nearly 9.4 million people and generate $1.9 trillion in revenue annually.

Healthy and growing women-owned businesses are vital to an inclusive economic recovery, yet women entrepreneurs face distinct challenges, including fewer resources and less access to professional networks, on top of having a greater share of caregiving duties.

“For many small businesses, having access to trusted experts in areas like marketing, business planning, technology and legal can be a critical turning point for getting back to growth,” says Jenny Flores, head of Small Business Growth Philanthropy at Wells Fargo. Right now, the company is deploying over $55 million from its Open for Business Fund to 93 nonprofits across the country to provide more women and diverse entrepreneurs with resources.

According to Flores, these tips and resources can help entrepreneurs

pivot from surviving to thriving as they recover from the pandemic and look to the future: Mentorship Connecting with mentors is a powerful way for women business owners to share best practices and learn from each other but it’s often hard to know where to find them or initiate those relationships. A new program between Wells Fargo and the

go to help women business owners accelerate their personal and professional growth as leaders and gain support as they solve big problems that make their families and communities stronger,” says Nicola Corzine, executive director, Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center.

Networking Networking is more than a buzzword. It can help open doors to

Having a concrete business plan is essential to running a successful business.

Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center called Connect to More is giving women entrepreneurs complimentary support through its signature Milestone Mapping Coaching Circle. Born from the challenges of COVID-19, participants get hands-on help setting and reaching business goals from a network of peer mentors and industry experts.

“As a non-profit committed to access and equity in entrepreneurship, we are grateful to partner with Wells Far-

growth. Check the local chamber of commerce or consider joining a wellknown organization like the National Association of Women Business Owners.

Knowledge Knowledge is power.

Visit Wells Fargo’s Women-Owned Business Resources page for free tools to support critical business decisions. Also, female entrepreneurs should check out some of these women-specific podcasts to pick up new strategies from savvy leaders:

• Being Boss digs into the mindsets and tactics that can help women business owners make money doing what they love.

• She Leads features respected female leaders from all industries who let listeners know what it takes to rise to the top.

• The Center offers a playlist of workshops and classes for women-identifying entrepreneurs.

• Women at Work, hosted by Harvard Business Review editorial staff, features conversations about where women are and how they can move forward.

Strategy Having a concrete business plan is essential to running a successful business.

During the pandemic, many small businesses had to create more online offerings, change relationships with supply chains or reduce hiring.

Now’s the time to review which of these adaptions can be built upon in the future.

Running a business is never easy. But new resources and support can help women entrepreneurs overcome the distinct challenges they face and plan for growth as the economy picks up.

How to avoid debt while Christmas shopping Can you believe it’s the month of December already? It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Retailers are open extended hours seeking to claim the money in your wallet. Every charitable organization known to man is soliciting you for money. Friends and family are dropping hints about certain gifts that they would enjoy this year. People in the office are asking you to chip in on a gift for the boss. Your church is passing around an extra offering plate for a present for the pastor.

You believe in your heart that “it’s better to give than to receive” but in the back of your mind you’re thinking, “give me a break.” “No can do,” says mortgage, car note, student loan, credit cards, lights, gas, cable, house phone, cell phone, Internet, insurance, and Uncle Sam. “We understand that you’re in a giving mood but don’t forget you have bills to pay!”

As a financial adviser I sit as the proverbial fly on the wall and listen to the conversations you’ve been having with yourself and your significant other. I heard you cry out in a moment of stress— “the paycheck doesn’t stretch far enough to feed, shelter, and clothe the family, provide basic utility and transportation for the family while at the same time give to charitable causes and save for future needs, wants, and goals.” I know that you’re doing the best you can to make ends meet. You’ll like to avoid using credit cards. You don’t want to rob Peter and Paul to play Santa. You’ll like to set up a Christmas fund to save a small portion each month starting in January every

year so that when Christmas is here you have the money to shop for gifts. The reality is you’re having a tough enough time trying to meet the financial demands of today. You don’t have the space in your mind or the funds in your wallet to worry about Christmas in January. Here we go again. Christmas has snuck up on us!

December is here. Christmas is upon us. You frantically wonder how you’re going to come up with the money to do your Christmas shopping. You’ve thought long and hard. You’ve concluded that you’ll get the money you need for Christmas one of two ways: 1.You’ll skip various bills this month and pay them when you get your tax refund. 2.

You’ll reluctantly use a credit card with the intention to pay it off within the next six months. Caught up in the emotion of the holidays, it may not have dawned on you that this is exactly what you did last year, the year before and the year before. That plan isn’t working.

Below are some ideas that will help you enjoy Christmas and avoid debt this holiday season: • Set a spending limit and track your spending—If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it. Before you do any shopping, decide how much you’re going to spend for Christmas. Keep track of how much you’re spending so that you don’t

go over your limit. Only use cash or debit cards when shopping.

• Make a list and check it twice—If it’s good enough for Santa Claus, it’s good enough for you. Make a list of all the people you plan on buying gifts for this season. You now know how much you plan on spending and who you’re purchasing gifts for. Check your list not twice but three times. As you review your list the third time, write a dollar amount on how much you’re going to spend on each person on the list.

• Keep your guard up — Don’t be tempted by your existing creditors attempting to defer payments on your loans and the merchants attempting to offer you discounts should you open and use a store credit card.

They have one of two things in mind — get you to spend money you don’t have or force you to pay interest you can’t afford.

• Look for great deals—Make it a goal to get discounts on every gift you purchase. This will help the money you’re spending on Christmas go further.

• Limit discretionary spending—Temporarily reduce or eliminate spending on entertainment, dining out, and other activities you do for pure joy and amusement. It’s better to give than receive, right? Sacrifice something you enjoy doing and use the money you normally spend to purchase gifts.

• Give the gift of time—Quality time with loved ones is perhaps the best gift you can give. It’s FREE and INVALUABLE. In this fast-paced society we live in, we rarely get to spend quality time with loved ones where there’s no distraction. Make an earnest effort to spend time with someone you care about. The memories you’ll gain from the experience will be more valuable than any gift you can purchase.

• Give a helping hand—Offer to babysit, shovel snow, mow the lawn, prepare a meal as a Christmas gift to someone you know who can use a break.

• Get a part-time job—If you’re still short on money, consider a part-time job or side hustle to fully or partially pay for your Christmas purchases this year.

There are plenty of part-time jobs available during the holiday season. It’s better to work a couple extra hours now and pay cash for your Christmas gifts than to neglect bills or accumulate debt and work extra hard the entire year trying to catch up on bills and payoff debt you’ve created during the holidays.

• Remove adults from the list—You did all the above and you’re still contemplating whipping out the credit card. Time to trim the list. It’s been said that Christmas is for the kids. Your adult family and friends will understand when you say that you spent your entire Christmas budget on the kids this year.

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

BUSINESS

B2 DECEMBER 8-14, 2021

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Tips to manage and improve your personal finances (StatePoint)—If you’re like many Americans, having a better understanding of money management is a prio0rity for you right now.

In fact, nearly 75 percent of Americans hope to improve their financial literacy in 2021, according to a recent survey conducted

by OnePoll for World Finance. The same survey also found that 50 percent of Americans need advice on how to budget properly.

“While money matters can seem overwhelming at first, there is a simple

2. Make, and stick to, a monthly budget: There is no one-size fits -all way to make a budget so find a method that works best for you. A few systems to try include envelope budgeting (dividing expenditures into physical or digital envelopes representing different spending categories), zero-based budgeting (earmarking every last penny of your income to a useful purpose) and the 50/30/20 Rule (allocating 50 percent of your income to needs, 30 percent to wants and 20 percent to

EMPLOYEE BURNOUT What companies can do to help relieve workday burnout

by Megan Kirk For New Pittsburgh Courier

formula for successful personal finances: know your credit score, create a manageable budget and build your savings,” says Chad Prashad, president and CEO of World Acceptance Corporation, the parent company of World Finance, a personal finance company.

To help you get started, World Finance, which helps over one million customers each year improve their financial situations, is offering the following tips and insights: 1. Know your credit score: Many banks and lenders will let you review your ctredit score for free on a regular basis. If your credit score has room for improvement, a simple way to build it is through a credit building loan. This is a small loan designed to be easy to pay back, helping you establish positive credit through the lender.

When taking out a loan, always be sure to use a reputable lender that reports to credit bureaus so that repaying your loan positively impacts your score.

savings and debt reduction).

3. Start saving: While building a savings account can be daunting, it’s important to allocate one in your budget. Doing so will mean you have an emergency fund to keep you afloat when the unexpected happens in life. According to the OnePollWorld Finance survey, nearly 30 percent of Americans do not feel that th$400. If you find yourself in a situation where your savings won’t cover what you need, a personal installment loan with equal monthly payments designed to fit into your budget could be a good solution. Find a lender that will work with you to understand the complete picture of your finances, such as World Finance. To learn more, visit loansbyworld.com.

“Every so often, it’s a good idea to take inventory of your financial wellness,” says Prashad. “Use the opportunity to understand your credit score, employ budgeting tactics and create a savings fund.

(Michigan Chronicle)—COVID-19 caused a record drop in employment in 2020 that continues to spill into 2021. Though a large number of Americans lost their jobs across the country, millions more worked steadily to keep the economy and essential businesses afloat. Now, the same employees who have been praised for their sacrifice throughout the pandemic are experiencing exhaustion on a different level. Employers are enlisting the help of organizations to navigate the new found land of post-pandemic employment and prioritize rest and recovery for this class of workers.

Janet Tyler has made a career teaching early-stage, start-up and mid-sized businesses how to manage stress and mitigate burnout in their workplaces. As President of True Depth, a consulting and managing firm specializing in these areas, Tyler is leading the change and advocating for healthy employees.

“Burnout [occurs] essentially after long periods of sustained stress [when] challenges begin to feel insurmountable,” said Tyler.

“What happens is we all feel stress, it’s healthy. It is temporary pressure because you have some adverse situations happening on the job. Unfortunately, what happened during the pandemic is people were extremely stressed out and didn’t have the time or opportunity, but maybe companies were leaning on employees a little too much during the pandemic that created this high stress situation.”

In 2019, the World Health Organization added burnout as an occupational phenomenon. Not to be con-

fused with exhaustion caused by life, burnout is a term exclusively coined for exhaustion due to the workplace.

As defined by WHO, burnout is: feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion; increased mental distance from one’s job, or feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one’s job; and reduced professional efficacy.

Once employees begin to experience burnout, it may come in waves affecting multiple employees at once.

Burnout is a contributor to high turnover rates, resulting in jobs losing key workers during a time when they are needed most. Companies looking to avoid employee burnout must examine areas that could be eliminated to help relieve pressure from the dayto-day operations.

“Try to reduce excessive collaboration. For companies who are in-person during the pandemic, it may be easy to hop in a meeting. Now, people don’t have five minutes, they are so over-scheduled throughout the day,” said Tyler. “In this new world with hybrid [working modes] and many [of them] are remote, it is tiring. Really looking brutally at the scheduling, limiting, cutting unnecessary meetings and resisting the temptation to overwork your star employees [is key].”

As the pandemic has put a tight strain on many essential functions, more than one year since its discovery in the United States, there seems to be no end in sight. Communities are adapting to COVID-19, but some employers are behind on the curve.

“I’m seeing what I like to call a ‘high burnout culture.’ There are some things that companies could be doing, but there are things that the employees could be doing to mitigate burnout,” said Tyler.

Employees experiencing burnout must create healthy boundaries to manage stress while being able to maintain job functions. According to Tyler, the time is takes to recover from a burnout increases the amount of time symptoms are felt.

“It takes at least half as long to recover from burnout as how long it took you to become burned out. If you’ve been not resting after stressful work events, not giving yourself a break … for six months, it will take you at least three months to recover from that burnout episode,” says Tyler.

Another contributing factor in burnout during the pandemic is race, diversity and inclusion. Examples of brutal slayings and racial tension across the country televised on the news and published in print laid the foundation for another layer of stress and burnout in the workplace. Now, corporations are working overtime to ensure a racially sensitive and inclusive culture for all. This too could lead to burnout.

“When you are always feeling compromised or under the radar, if you’re constantly feeling in the minority, your brain, the load of that, can be exhausting,” said Tyler. “I’m not comparing and it’s not the same, but it would be like a woman working with a team of all men all the time or a Black person who worked with all White people all the time.”

Now, more than ever, companies are beginning to have conversations around burnout and implementing practices to protect their employees.

The pandemic has afforded an opportunity for companies to shift the way the corporate work day is executed.

They just need to take advantage of that opportunity.

Minority Business Development Agency elevated to permanent status (TriceEdneyWire.com)—“President Biden has made clear his commitment to not just rebuilding to how things were before COVID-19, but to building back better and more equitably. The Minority Business Development Agency is ready to step into this historic moment and build on its success—because we recognize that America’s road to recovery runs through our minority business community. Making MBDA a statutory Agency provides MBDA with the authorities, workforce and resources needed to help level the playing field on behalf of minority businesses and minority entrepreneurs.”—U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo After more than 50 years, the Minority Business Development Agency has been made permanent, its Director has been elevated to Under Secretary of Commerce, and new tools and authority will allow the agency to address the longstanding economic inequities that face our nation’s 9 million business owners of color.

These long-awaited historic provisions are part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, signed by President Biden earlier this month.

The expansion and elevation of MBDA is of special interest to the National Urban League, not only because Black entrepreneurship and business ownership are at the heart of our mission. Robert J. Brown, Vice Chair of the National Urban League Board of Trustees, created and developed the agency—then known as Office of Minority Business Enterprise

Marc H. Morial

To Be Equal —while serving as Special Assistant to President Richard Nixon in 1969.

“We must also provide an expanded opportunity to participate in the free enterprise system at all levels—not only to share the economic benefits of the free enterprise system more broadly, but also to encourage pride, dignity, and a sense of independence,” President Nixon said upon signing the Executive Order creating the agency. “In order to do this, we need to remove commercial obstacles which have too often stood in the way of minority group members—obstacles such as the unavailability of credit, insurance, and technical assistance.”

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Black-owned businesses shuttered at twice the rate of White-owned businesses, and were largely excluded from relief that was distributed as part of Congress’s stimulus bills.

Even before the pandemic, Black and Latino Americans owned fewer than 10 percent of small businesses with employees, despite making up 30 percent of the nation’s population.

The landmark Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act includes the following provisions:

• Expands the geographic reach of the MBDA by authorizing the creation of regional MBDA offices, rural business centers, and increasing the number and scope of existing programs.

• Creates a presidentially appointed and Senate-confirmed Under Secretary of Commerce for Minority Business Development to lead the agency.

• Increases the MBDA’s grant-making capacity to partner with community and national nonprofits engaged in private and public sector development as well as research.

• Mandates the creation of the Parren J. Mitchel Entrepreneurship Education Grants Program to cultivate the next generation of minority entrepreneurs on the campuses HBCUs and MSIs across the Nation.

• Creates a council to advise the Under Secretary on supporting MBEs; and Authorizes the Under Secretary to coordinate federal MBE programs.

“This legislation is transformative and signifies a new era in minority business development and progress toward addressing the long-standing racial disparities in access to capital, contracts, and business ecosystems,” U.S. Department of Commerce Deputy Secretary Don Graves said.

The National Urban League and our network of 91 affiliates have counseled, mentored, and trained more than 60,000 business owners over the last decade and a half; we look forward to expanding and enhancing our work with the partnership of the revitalized MBDA.

METRO

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

DECEMBER 8-14, 2021

B3

“For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called, Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”

- Isaiah 9:6

REV. WALKER SAYS: As we celebrate (Christ Mass) = Christ the Anointed to worship Jesus at Christmas. Please remember Jesus.

SUBSCRIBE TO THE COURIER JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS! CALL ALLISON PALM AT 412-481-8302, EXT. 136.

Hip-Hop superstar Megan Thee Stallion among 843 students to graduate from Texas Southern University

MEGAN THEE STALLION

Texas Southern University graduates will cross the stage during TSU’s Winter Commencement on Saturday, Dec. 11, in the Health & Physical Education Arena. The university will hold two ceremonies – one at 9:30 a.m. and a second at 12:30 p.m. – to recognize and celebrate students who have persevered through portions of three academic years dealing with COVID and will matriculate with bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral and professional degrees.

These students were part of the safe “Return to Tiger Land” for in-person classes with the Fall 2021 semester, following several semesters impacted by the pandemic.

TSU President Dr. Lesia Crumpton-Young, who recently completed her first 100 days in office, will share her dream for her first class of graduates – a dream inspired by Martin Luther King’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech.

“This will be a ceremony that I will cherish forever,” she added. “As we celebrate their achievement, we also welcome them into Tiger Nation as alumni across the

globe. I am confident that our graduates are prepared to transform the world through knowledge and experiences gained at TSU.” Megan Pete, a.k.a. Megan Thee Stallion, is one of 843 graduates who will celebrate their accomplishments achieved at Texas Southern University – including 595 with undergraduate degrees, 187 with graduate degrees, 16 with Doctor of Pharmacy degrees, and 45 with Juris Doctor degrees from the Thurgood Marshall School of Law. TSU’s morning (9:30 a.m.) ceremony will include graduates from the College of Education, School of Communication, Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs, Jesse H. Jones School of Business, and the Thurgood Marshall School of Law. The afternoon ceremony will include graduates from the College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, College of Liberal Arts and Behavioral Sciences, and the College of Science, Engineering and Technology.

B4

OPINION

DECEMBER 8-14, 2021

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

A tale of two cities

Guest Editorial

Rising homicide rates indicate a nation in mental distress Another tragic and senseless shooting took place in Oxford, Michigan, last week —this time at the hands of a 15-year-old student, now in custody, who killed three students and injured eight others including a teacher.

And as one can expect, politicians will issue statements expressing their condolences and saying such nonsensical statements like “we mourn the loss of these students and teachers,” or “you are in our prayers.” Of course, we use the term “nonsensical” loosely because prayer always matters and lending one’s support to others in time of need remains essential within the framework of the human family.

Nonetheless, examples like these have become so commonplace that they only dominate the news cycle and social media for a few days before becoming footnotes on the pages of life.

Meanwhile, homicide rates in D.C., Baltimore County and many other metropolitan areas remain on track to exceed rates not recorded since 2019.

We know that guns don’t kill people— people kill people. Still, the real question that remains unanswered is why are we seeing this ominous spike in homicides?

Baltimore County officials attribute the rise to behavioral health-related incidents and killings resulting from domestic abuse.

However, we believe that the stress placed on Americans because of the pandemic has also led to the homicidal frenzy which continues to plague the nation.

People are hurting everywhere in cities big and small. People need help. And people need assistance and direction in developing solutions that will help them solve or at least alleviate the problems that seem to be so overwhelming, mentally and emotionally.

Shooting classmates in a high school, attacking innocent people at Metro stations or at ATM machines or aiming bullets into a crowd of strangers in a drive-by shooting are all inappropriate actions and do nothing but exacerbate the problems we collectively face.

It’s time to stop the madness. And it can be done, one person at a time.

(Reprinted from the Washington Informer)

Founded 1910

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

Rob Taylor Jr.

Ashley Johnson

Office Manager

Managing Editor

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John. H. Sengstacke

Editor & Publisher Emeritus (1912-1997)

(TriceEdneyWire.com)—JUSTICE, now better known as ACCOUNTABILITY, is an elusive consequence and, in the current social/cultural/ political climate, is becoming more elusive with each passing day. Like that well-known, 1964 quote of Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart characterizing pornography as “I know it when I see it,” most objective people, who control or reject their partisan leanings, will confirm its elusiveness.

Two criminal trials that serve to illuminate and inform our understanding of our criminal justice system have recently ended in Kenosha, WI, with the Rittenhouse murder trial, and in Brunswick, GA, with the trial of the murderers of Ahmaud Arbrey. Although the argument for each defense team was Self-Defense, the verdicts were completely different which, I am sure, will be the subject of discussions for years to come. My assessment of the arguments for the defense in both cases leads me to believe that for true Justice and Accountability to prevail, more clearly defined parameters of what constitutes Self-Defense are needed. But that is a separate discussion.

Like others, my attention was captured by what I can only define as judicial prejudice. In both cities, decisions were made with the intent or effect of influencing the outcome of the prosecution and/or verdicts.

These decisions were as clear as mountain air, but only successful in one case.

When I first heard that Judge Bruce Schroeder, presiding in the Rittenhouse trial, had prohibited

Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq.

Commentary prosecutors from characterizing the individuals shot by Rittenhouse as “victims” while allowing defense attorneys to refer to demonstrators as “arsonists” and “looters,” I knew that judicial bias prevailed in favor of the Defendant. Allegations of Judge Schroder telling a racist joke and the judge’s cellphone ringer playing Lee Greenwood’s anthem for the political Right, “God Bless the U.S.A.” gave reason to doubt Schroder’s impartiality. The understanding of Schroder’s bias was complete when he dismissed the weapons charge against Rittenhouse, paving the way for him receiving a ‘clean slate’ after the expected “Not Guilty” verdicts were realized.

While Schroder’s judicial conduct was open to debate, in Georgia, the threat to Justice and Accountability was more insidious. From February 23, 2020, until May 7, 2020, no arrest or criminal action was taken against the three who would be found guilty of Arbery’s murder.

Subsequently, police sought legal advice from the Brunswick District Attorney Jackie Johnson about charges for Travis McMichael (son and shooter) and Gregory McMichael (father). The DA advised no

arrests were necessary. On the next day, Waycross (GA) Judicial Circuit District Attorney George Barnhill advised the Glynn County Police Department that no arrests should be made.

Subsequently, DA Jackie Johnson recused herself from the case because Gregory McMichael had previously worked as an investigator in her office. The case was transferred to Barnhill’s office. The Georgia Attorney General’s Office said neither Johnson nor Barnhill told the office that Barnhill had reviewed evidence in the case. It was only after a local radio station received a copy of the video taken on the cellphone of William Bryan, a co-defendant, Georgia AG, Chris Carr, asks Georgia Bureau of Investigation to take over the case.

On May 7, 2020, the GBI arrested the McMichaels and charged them with murder and aggravated assault. On May 21, 2020, Bryan was arrested and charged with murder and attempt to commit false imprisonment. The trial concluded on November 24, 2021, with guilty verdicts for the three.

We have two murder trials, two cities with two different outcomes.

If nothing else, these events demonstrate that, absent extra-judicial manipulation, ACCOUNTABILITY is attainable. Neither of these cases is over. Federal charges are pending, and civil litigation is possible.

The principal question remains—“As a rule, will our nation continue to condone vigilantism and the extra-judicial execution of our people?”

(Dr. E. Faye Williams is President of the National Congress of Black Women.)

How many pastors can we have?

(TriceEdneyWire.com)—Rev. Jesse Jackson and Rev. Al Sharpton were doing the right thing when attending the Amaud Arbery trial. They demonstrated the solidarity that the Black community has with each other when one of us appears to be lynched. Lynching has reverberations. Each of us, every Black person, is repulsed and dismayed when we learn that armed White men, using the pretense of “citizen’s arrest,” can kill any of us. What is a citizen’s arrest, anyway? Is it simply a license to kill?

Kevin Gough, the attorney “defending” William “Roddie” Bryant, the man who both took the video of the massacre and participated in it, asked the judge, each day, to bar Rev. Jesse Jackson from the courtroom.

How absurd! He says Rev. Jackson’s presence might influence the nearly all-White jury, and I suspect his objections might lay the groundwork for an appeal now that the devilish White men have been found guilty of murder.

Gough’s racism and ignorance have been a constant presence in this trial. He said he didn’t want more Black pastors in the courtroom after Rev. Sharpton sat with the Arbery family. He asked the stupid question, “How many pastors does the Arbery family have.” He had the nerve, though out of the jury’s hearing, to ask if Georgia Senator Raphael Warnock, also a pastor, will be next in the courtroom. What if he was?

What Gough does not understand are the many ways that racism connects Black people. In the book Lynching and Spectacle (University of North Carolina Press, 2009), Amy Louise Wood writes, “The news of lynching shook (the author Richard) Wright to his core. Despite, or even because of, its relative rarity, lynch-

Julianne Malveaux

Commentary ing held a singular psychological force, generating a level of fear and horror that overwhelmed all other forms of violence. Even one lynching reverberated, traveling with sinister force, down city streets, and through rural farms, across roads and rivers.”

Any of us could be followed and shot on any given day.

We have no shield. We can be unarmed and running. In bed and sleeping (ask Breonna Taylor), or simply walking down the street.

And White folks see a threat because racism is baked in the cake we call America. When we watch the massacre of Amaud Arbery, we see ourselves, our sons, our daughters, our mothers. That connects us.

That’s why more than one hundred pastors rallied with Rev. Sharpton outside the Brunswick courthouse in solidarity. I want Revs. Jackson, Sharpton, William Barber, Freddy Haynes, and so many others rally at every massacre. Cause it’s personal.

How dare this high-handed man, the offense attorney, question anybody’s religion, pastoral relationships, community connections, or anything else?

Gough will go down in the racist’s hall of fame, but he is not the only one. All these “stand your ground” laws are an absurd attempt to allow White people to shoot Black people with impunity. Southern state legislatures empower White people to

embrace their racism with firearms, whether they are police officers or ordinary citizens. It is frightening to think that we live in a world where White fear, real or imagined, justifies a Black massacre.

On the witness stand, one of the murderers admitted that Arnaud did not say a word to him, did not do a darn thing but try to get away from him. He shot him anyway! So some random White person follows a Black man and attacks him because he is “scared.” He should have kept his scared self in his house and called the police. But no, he was a White man with privilege, power, and a weapon. Why should he call law enforcement when he could enforce the law himself?

So how many pastors does the Arbery family have? As many as they want. Black folks around the nation and the world prayed for a just result in this trial. We also prayed for a judicial ruling that the massacre of Black people is unacceptable. We are continuing to pray for an examination of this nonsense called “citizen’s arrest.” And we are praying for our leaders, our pastors, our brothers to keep the faith and keep representing.

Kevin Gough does not “get” the Black community, and he doesn’t have to. But what he needs to know, when he thundered about Black pastors, is that all of us, Black people, are connected. How many pastors do I have? As many as will claim me.

Hundreds of Black pastors claimed the Arbery family because they relate to their pain. Whether you are a pastor or not, you should claim them, too.

(Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an economist, author, and dean of the College of Ethnic Studies at Cal State LA. Juliannemalveaux. com)

Preparing for coming changes While many are watching developing court cases and the treatment of Blacks and people of color as both victims and perpetrators in the judicial system, we must not lose sight of the coming changes around us designed to both distract and disable.

I speak specifically of the following: (1) the redistricting or redesigning of all the Electoral Districts in the United States, based on the 2020 Census; (2) the new Voter Suppression laws in over 22 states restricting voting hours, locations, and conduct while waiting to vote; (3) the local campaigns against Critical Race Theory resulting in the removal of books in school libraries and restrictions on how issues of race can be taught; and (4) a very close look at all people running for office in 2022 and where they actually stand on the issues just mentioned.

The Conservative Right, with all its Trump supporters, is counting on low voter turnout as a result of the above-mentioned restrictions. They are also putting those who are in

John E. Warren

Commentary agreement with them in key positions within each state’s vote count and certification process. The greatest weapon we have is our ability to engage the process at every level.

We must now start serious voter registration; we must now look very closely at the new electoral boundaries and changes in all districts, from Congressional Districts to State Legislative, County, Municipal, and School Board Districts.

We must start now and begin looking at the impact of these proposed changes. In some cases, it is already too late to engage the Redistricting Commissions for final changes.

Many of these commissions sought

to use the internet as a substitute for outreach and citizen engagement in the process. Many of these commissions, both here and around the country, were appointing and stacking the commissions even before the Bureau of the Census released its report.

As a result of those activities, we must now engage in the five “P’s” if we, as the potential victims, are to overcome the “changes”. The “P’s” are: Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance. We must start planning now how to make new friends and form new alliances where necessary to get the desired outcomes under changing district boundaries and practices. We must know who is in office, who is running for office and whether their interests are our interest before we rush to commit our votes while others are still bargaining for their agendas.

Changes are coming. The only issue is whether we will be prepared to meet and overcome the changes.

Something to think about.

FORUM

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

‘Build Back Better’ balances Biden’s three-legged stool (BlackPressUSA)—Last year, Joe Biden and Congressional Democrats promised voters that if given the chance we would do the things necessary to combat COVID-19, rebuild America’s families and their communities, and restore faith in the promise of America. I often say that we can be no more or less than what our experiences allow us to be. When I see or hear the word “faith,” my experiences of growing up in a parsonage cause me to reflect upon one of my favorite passages of scripture, Hebrew 11:1, “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things unseen.” The efficacy of that scripture is reflected in the first ten months of Joe Biden’s presidency.

The 1st Leg In March, Democrats passed President Biden’s American Rescue Plan (ARP) without a single Republican vote. In addition to making sure we had enough vaccines and getting them out quickly and equitably, the ARP scaled up testing and tracing and addressed the shortages of personal protective equipment. The ARP expanded the Child Tax Credit, which lifted nearly half of America’s children living in poverty out of poverty, and the Earned Income Tax Credit; the House-passed Build Back Better legislation will extend these expanded tax credits through 2022. The American Rescue Plan lowered health insurance premiums for many in the Affordable Care Act marketplace and provided resources to state and local communities to reopen schools and lower health care costs.

The ARP provided rescue checks of up to $1400 per individual, housing assistance to keep people in their homes or apartments and nutrition assistance for 40 million Americans.

The 2nd Leg On November 15th President Biden signed a second consequential piece of legislation, the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (BIF). Despite

Rep. James Clyburn

Commentary receiving only 19 Republican votes in the Senate and 13 in the House, all States, and territories—red and blue alike—will benefit from Biden’s vision for infrastructure assistance. For the 173,000 miles of highway and 45,000 bridges in poor condition nationwide, $110 billion will be invested in repairing and replacing this critical infrastructure. Another $55 billion is coming to improve our states’ water and wastewater infrastructure. Public transportation will be improved with $39 billion, airports will receive $25 billion for upgrades, and our ports and railroads will receive another $17 billion and $66 billion respectively. There is $7.5 billion to expand the electric vehicle charging network.

The infrastructure package also addresses climate change. Last year, the United States experienced 22 extreme weather events, costing nearly $100 billion collectively. There are funds in the bill to mitigate flood and storm damage and build resilient communities.

I have said, and honestly believe, that the inclusion of $65 million commitment for broadband—reflecting many of the provisions of my and Senator Klobuchar’s Accessible and Affordable Internet for All legislation alone makes the BIF worthy of passage. COVID-19 exposed the vast digital divide that plagues families and communities all over America. That divide impacts the ability to work, attend school, or to receive efficient and effective health care services. The House Rural Broadband Task Force, which I established and currently chair, worked to ensure this significant investment in high-speed broadband.

The 3rd Leg Last Friday the House passed, and sent to the Senate, Build Back Better (BBB) legislation I have referred to as the 3rd leg of a 3-legged stool, that balances President Biden’s rescue efforts, and brings balance to the lives of millions of Americans. My priorities in this bill include the 2.2 million Americans who are without healthcare because they live in the 12 states that have not expanded Medicaid. If enacted, this legislation will provide subsidies for these low-income residents falling into the coverage gap in the non-expansion states enabling them to purchase coverage on the ACA Marketplace at no cost.

Another priority of mine is addressing the dearth of affordable housing that currently exists. The BBB invests $151 billion toward our nation’s affordable housing infrastructure including funding to rehabilitate millions of affordable housing units, bring sustainable homeownership within reach for millions of first-generation homebuyers, eliminate the nation’s flood insurance program debt, and provide other critical investments in vulnerable communities across the country.

BBB also includes a $555 billion investment in clean energy and climate. It will help cut greenhouse pollution and will reduce consumer energy costs, create hundreds of thousands of high-quality jobs, and advance environmental justice for vulnerable communities. Families will also benefit from $3.5 billion national investment in weatherization for their homes, which will improve energy efficiency and reduce energy costs.

I am especially pleased the Build Back Better Act includes $9 billion to support minority-serving higher education institutions. These funds will improve the research capacity and research and development infrastructure at these institutions, as well as strengthen their academic, administrative, and fiscal capacity. These funds build upon the $2.6 billion HBCUs received from the American Rescue Plan to address the impacts of the pandemic on under-resourced institutions.

A lot of lip-service has been paid to meeting America’s challenges over the past several years. America is a great country. We are challenged, however, to make its greatness accessible and affordable for all Americans.

My faith teaches that we will be judged by our deeds not our words. I am proud of these substantive deeds President Biden and this Democratic Congress are getting accomplished for the American people. There is clear evidence that more needs to be done but I have faith that this President and this Congress are not done yet.

DECEMBER 8-14, 2021 B5

Is invoking Emmett Till a disservice to history?

In 2012, Trayvon Martin, a Black 17-year-old, was fatally shot by George Zimmerman, a Hispanic neighborhood watchman, in Florida. Zimmerman said he was ambushed by Martin and claimed self-defense. The media labeled Zimmerman a White man, then showed a picture of a 13-year-old Martin as the victim. No one believed the child in the photograph could have harmed the 28-year-old Zimmerman, and it was assumed Zimmerman acted with racist intent.

Headlines announced Trayvon Martin was the new Emmett Till. Till, a Black 14-year-old from Chicago vacationing in Mississippi, was lynched for allegedly whistling at a White woman in 1955. The White lynchers were apprehended but acquitted by an all-White jury. Eugene Robinson, a Washington Post columnist, disapproved of the Till/Martin comparison and wrote, “To make a facile comparison is a disservice to history—and the memory of both young men.”

The jury in Zimmerman’s trial concluded the forensic evidence was consistent with Zimmerman’s account of the shooting and found Zimmerman not guilty of second-degree murder. It was also clear the media’s narrative was inaccurate.

In 2014, Michael Brown, a Black 18-year-old, was fatally shot by Darren Wilson, a White police officer, in Ferguson, Missouri. Wilson claimed the shooting was in self-defense after Brown charged him and reached for his gun. The media reported Brown was shot with his hands up while begging the officer not to shoot.

This led to the Ferguson riots.

Again, commentators compared the

J. Pharoah Doss

Check It Out police shooting of Michael Brown to the lynching of Emmett Till. However, the forensic evidence matched Wilson’s explanation, and Wilson wasn’t charged with any crime. The U.S. Justice Department also investigated the shooting and found no evidence to disprove Wilson’s testimony. This time, the media’s initial report was false.

Michael Brown never had his hands up, and he never said don’t shoot.

August 28, 2015, was the 60th anniversary of Emmett Till’s death.

Till was memorialized in Chicago with a motorcade processional from the church that held his funeral to the site of his burial. The organizers of the commemoration made sure the families of Trayvon Martin and Michael Brown were in attendance because the organizers believed there were many parallels between what happened to Till, Martin, and Brown.

What were the parallels besides the race of the victim?

Finally, on August 23, 2020, Jacob Blake, a 29-year-old Black man, was shot by a White police officer in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Blake survived the shooting but was paralyzed from the waist down. The media reported Blake broke up a domestic dispute and was shot trying to enter his vehicle. But

it turned out Blake’s girlfriend made the 911 call because Blake was not permitted on the premises. The police were aware Blake had a warrant for his arrest for sexual assault, trespassing, and disorderly conduct. Blake also had a knife. Blake scuffled with the police. The police used tasers, but they were ineffective. Then shots were fired.

No charges were brought against the officer that shot Blake.

But a USA Today contributor wrote, “Jacob Blake and Emmett Till’s death are both part of a long story of oppression.” Then rioting erupted in Kenosha, and so did another shooting.

Kyle Rittenhouse, a White 17-yearold, was with an armed group assembled to “protect” businesses from being vandalized. During the unrest, Rittenhouse was assaulted by other White men, and Rittenhouse fatally shot two White men and wounded another in self-defense. The media portrayed Rittenhouse as a White supremacist vigilante that killed individuals protesting the shooting of Jacob Blake.

Once again, the media account was a distortion, and Rittenhouse was found not guilty of murder charges.

Afterward, when Derrick Johnson, the president and CEO of the NAACP, was asked about the Rittenhouse verdict, he said, “This was worse than the Emmett Till trial. This was worse than so many trials where we know for a fact individuals committed murder, and yet they were not brought to justice. It’s unfortunate, but this is America.”

It’s also unfortunate Emmett Till’s memory is constantly disparaged in an ongoing effort to portray present-day America as if it’s still 1955.

Our criminal justice system needs dramatic reform (TriceEdneyWire.com)—In the civil rights movement we were constantly reminded to keep our eyes on the prize.

What’s the prize? Equality of opportunity and results, which requires equity in every facet of our lives—education, housing, home ownership, job training, employment, political access and especially in the criminal justice system.

Our criminal justice system still needs dramatic reform. Blacks make up more than 40 percent of the prison population, but only 13 percent of the nation’s population.

The geographic numerator changes— north or south—but the denominator remains the same—an unjust criminal justice system nationwide. Three current incidents illustrate: Jelani Day in Peru, Illinois; Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin; and Ahmaud Arbery in Brunswick, Georgia. Jelani Day, a 25-year-old Black medical student at Illinois State University, was a “bright light” in his family; he and his sister were competing to become doctors. He disappeared on Aug. 24. The family and a professor reported him missing on Aug. 25.

His car was found two days later in a wooded area near where his body was later discovered in Peru, Illinois, miles from where he was last seen. LaSalle County law enforcement officials discovered his body on Sept. 4 “floating near the south bank of the Illinois River approximately a quarter-of-a-mile east of the Illinois Route 251 Bridge.” The parents continue to be critical of the investigation because little focus was initially put on his disappearance. It occurred in the context of the vanished and subsequent death of Gabby Petito, which was receiving national coverage.

There are inconsistencies, a high degree of incompetence and a lack of collaboration between various law enforcement agencies surrounding the case. There is still no closure about what happened to Jelani Day. Racial dimensions in trials Rusten Sheskey, accompanied by two other White police officers responding to a domestic complaint by the fiancee of

Jesse Jackson Sr.

Commentary Jacob Blake—a Black man—shot Blake seven times in the back, with his children looking on in the back seat. Blake, they say, refused to obey the officers, so they opened his car door and reached inside.

Blake was left partially paralyzed by the incident. Racial violence followed in Kenosha. Officer Sheskey was not charged with a crime. As disturbances continued, a White 17-year-old Kyle Rittenhouse decided to take the law into his own hands. He left home in Antioch, Illinois, with his mother driving him to Kenosha with a loaded military-style semiautomatic rifle (illegal for a person his age) “to assist the police in protecting businesses.” He killed two protesters and wounded another, but walked freely past police officers and military vehicles even as onlookers shouted that he had just shot several people.

The next day, Rittenhouse was arrested and has now been found not guilty on five felonies and a misdemeanor. A White judge, Bruce Schroeder, who has a history of controversial behavior from the bench, seemed unfair as he told the prosecution they could not refer to the victims of the shooting as victims, but that the defense could refer to them as rioters and looters, if they had such evidence. One juror was removed for making a racial joke about Jacob Blake.

The judge also attacked the press in court as unfair in its coverage, and the trial has seemed unfair from the start.

Ahmaud Aubery, an unarmed Black jogger, was shot and killed by three White vigilantes who were not even arrested until more than a month later after a

video of the shooting went viral. Ultimately, the jury had 11 White jurors and only one Black juror in a city that’s 25 percent Black. Defense attorneys used preemptive challenges to remove multiple potential Black jurors, who were asked questions like what they thought of Black Lives Matter and whether there were racial problems between the Black community and the police.

Their answers were then used to remove them from the jury. Additionally, the defense seemed to be trying to put Mr. Aubery on trial by showing pictures of him looking around in buildings under construction, claiming there had been recent robberies in the community, and the defendants were only trying to make a citizen’s arrest and hold him until the police came—like they were protecting the community.

Fortunately, the predominately White jury did not fall for the defense’s argument. All three White vigilantes - Travis McMichael; his father, Gregory McMichael, and a neighbor, William “Roddie” Bryan, were found guilty of multiple charges of felony murder.

But, the simplest way to demonstrate the racial dimension of all three incidents —and one could add the events of January 6 at the U.S. Capitol—is to reverse the racial roles of everyone. Imagine the actual victims as White and the alleged perpetrators as Black.

What these cases show is a pattern—a lineage of Trayvon Martin, Eric Garner, George Floyd, Michael Brown, the Charleston nine—that we cannot accept as normal. Would we see these incidents in the same way if they were reversed?

Obviously not. Even in the murder of Aubery—despite the guilty verdicts—the delayed arrests, the jury selection, among other aspects of the case remain questionable.

The only solution is to engage in mass action and mass voting that will allow the truth to come out that will lead to dramatic reform in our criminal justice system.

Black history gifts for Black children A. Peter Bailey (TriceEdneyWire.com)—During this gift-giving season, it’s very important that serious Black parents provide their children with at least one gift that either introduces them to or broadens their knowledge of Black History. There is a reason why White supremacists in this country voraciously opposed the teaching of our history in schools. They are well aware that a people with a deep knowledge of their history are much more difficult to intimidate and control.

I was a young adult sophomore at Howard University before being introduced to Black History. The introducer was Dr. Harold Lewis, a brilliant professor who gave me one of the greatest gifts of my life by making me ready to later meet and learn from black historians

such as Dr. John Henrik Clarke, Harold Cruz and especially Brother Malcolm X. Two of my favorite historical warriors are Martin Delany and John Mitchell, Jr. I had never heard of them before Dr. Lewis’ class. Brother Martin was what we call today a Pan-Africanist about whom Frederick Douglass is quoted as saying, “I thank God I was born a man; Martin thanks God he was born a Black man.” He traveled to Africa where he spent most of his time there in what is now Nigeria and later recruited enslaved Africans to join the Union Army.

Those Black warriors played a major role in the defeat of the confederate enslavers.

Brother John in the late 1800s was the founder and editor of a newspaper based in Richmond, Virginia. This paper, the Richmond Planet, was a strong opponent of the lynching of Black men by

White males. At a time when lynching was almost a sport for White supremacists and racists, Brother John wrote that the best remedy for lynching “…is a 16-shot Winchester rifle in the hands of a dead shot Negro who has nerve enough to pull the trigger.”

These are just two Black historical warriors that our children need to study, learn from and act on since some of their positions are just as relevant today as they were in the mid to late 1800s. Other numerous warriors they need to be aware of include Mary McLeod Bethune, Nannie Helen Burroughs, Henry McNeal Turner, Paul Robeson and Fannie Lou Hamer whose contributions are included in books available in Blackowned institutions such as Sankofa in Washington, DC. These are the kinds of gifts that will provide everlasting knowledge for our children.

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HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER BEAVER, PENNSYLVANIA INVITATION TO BID The HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER will receive sealed bids, in duplicate, until 9:30 AM. (local time) on Thursday, December 30, 2021 at the office of the Housing Authority of the County of Beaver, James F. Tress Administration Building, 300 State Street (Vanport), Beaver, Pennsylvania at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read aloud at 11:00 A.M for the following: CONTRACT TITLE: ROOF REPLACEMENT Public Housing (4) “Elderly Sites Thomas Bishop Apartments, 1023 Sixth Avenue, New Brighton King Beaver Apartments, 680 Canal Street, Beaver Corak Towers, 500 Beaver Avenue, Midland A.C. Edgecombe Apartments, 1150 Bechtel Street, Monaca at Francis Farmer Apartments, Community Room, 274 Friendship Circle, Beaver, PA 15009 Proposed forms of contract documents, including Plans and Specifications are being distributed, with twenty-four-hour prior notice of pick-up, by Haus Company, 921 Ridge Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, by phone (412) 2317700 or fax (412)231-7709. All prime bidders are REQUIRED to buy the full set of plans and specifications. Contact Haus Company for cost of plans and specifications. Free examination of said documents are available at the office of Canzian/Johnston & Associates LLC and Pennsylvania Builders Exchange. DEPOSITS ARE NOT REFUNDABLE. Plans and specifications will be available on Thursday, December 2 2021.

A certified check or bank draft, payable to the HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER, U.S. Government Bonds or a satisfactory bid bond executed by the bidder and acceptable securities in an amount equal to fifteen percent (15%) of the bid, shall be submitted with each bid.

All required Contract Documents must be completed and submitted with the bid. The successful bidder will be required to furnish and pay for satisfactory performance, labor and material, and maintenance bonds of 100% with good and sufficient surety, and will be required to provide same within ten (10) days of contract award.

Prior to award of any contract the Housing Authority will conduct a pre-contract survey of a Bidder’s past performance. Consideration will be given to such matters as bidder’s integrity, compliance with the public policy, record of past performance, and financial and technical resources.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY REQUIREMENTS: The Contractor will be required to comply with all applicable Equal Employment Opportunity requirements for Federally-assisted Construction Contracts.

The Contractor must insure that employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sexual preference, handicap or national origin. The work to be performed under this contract is subject Section 3 Compliance.

A MANDATORY Pre-Bid Conference will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday December 16, 2021 at A.C. Edgecombe Apartments, 1150 Bechtel Street, Monaca .

MASKS ARE REQUIRED, TEMPERATURES WILL BE TAKEN AND SOCIAL DISTRANCING IS REQUIRED. The HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER reserves the right to reject all bids or to waive any informalities in the bidding. Award of this contract is contingent on funds available.

No bid shall be withdrawn for a period of ninety (90) days subsequent to opening bids without the consent of the HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER. HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER Domenic Leone Chairman Brian L. Yaworsky Executive Director HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER BEAVER, PENNSYLVANIA INVITATION TO BID The HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER will receive sealed bids, in duplicate, until 9:30 AM. (local time) on Thursday, December 30, 2021 at the office of the Housing Authority of the County of Beaver, James F. Tress Administration Building, 300 State Street (Vanport), Beaver, Pennsylvania at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read aloud at 10:00 A.M for the following: CONTRACT TITLE: HACB County-Wide Chiller Replacement Public Housing “Elderly Sites & Four Family sites Joseph Edwards Elderly, 330 Connecticut Avenue, Rochester Eleanor Roosevelt Apartments, 740 Sheffield Avenue, Aliquippa George Werner Apartments, 599 8th Avenue, Freedom Thomas Bishop Apartments, 1023 Sixth Avenue, New Brighton Gordon Camp Elderly, 225 Jefferson Street, Rochester Ambridge Towers, 500 Beaver Road, Ambridge Brodhead Apartments, 712 12th Street, Beaver Falls Monacatootha Apartments, 105 4th Street, Monaca King Beaver Apartments, 680 Canal Street, Beaver Sheffield Towers, 100 Superior Avenue, Aliquippa Corak Towers, 500 Beaver Avenue, Midland A.C. Edgecombe Apartments, 1150 Bechtel Street, Monaca Brighton Homes, 1402 Fifth Avenue, New Brighton (F) John F. Kennendy Apartments, 2012 Duss Avenue, Ambridge (F) John F. Kennedy Apartments, 269 Maplewood Avenue John F. Kennedy Apartments, 285 First Street (Merchant), Ambridge (F) at Francis Farmer Apartments, Community Room, 274 Friendship Circle, Beaver, PA 15009 Proposed forms of contract documents, including Plans and Specifications may be obtained by MAIL ONLY. Contractors MUST obtain copies of the documents from DELLIOTT Engineers, Inc., P.O. BOX 375, Zelienople, PA 16063 by first mailing $100.00 in the form of a check made payable to the HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER for each set of documents so obtained. DEPOSITS ARE NOT REFUNDABLE. Plans and specifications will be available on Thursday, December 2 2021.

A certified check or bank draft, payable to the HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER, U.S. Government Bonds or a satisfactory bid bond executed by the bidder and acceptable securities in an amount equal to fifteen percent (15%) of the bid, shall be submitted with each bid.

All required Contract Documents must be completed and submitted with the bid. The successful bidder will be required to furnish and pay for satisfactory performance, labor and material, and maintenance bonds of 100% with good and sufficient surety, and will be required to provide same within ten (10) days of contract award.

Prior to award of any contract the Housing Authority will conduct a pre-contract survey of a Bidder’s past performance. Consideration will be given to such matters as bidder’s integrity, compliance with the public policy, record of past performance, and financial and technical resources.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY REQUIREMENTS: The Contractor will be required to comply with all applicable Equal Employment Opportunity requirements for Federally-assisted Construction Contracts. The Contractor must insure that employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sexual preference, handicap or national origin. The work to be performed under this contract is subject Section 3 Compliance.

A MANDATORY Pre-Bid Conference will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday December 16, 2021 at King Beaver Apartments, 680 Canal Street, Beaver MASKS ARE REQUIRED, TEMPERATURES WILL BE TAKEN AND SOCIAL DISTRANCING IS REQUIRED. The HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER reserves the right to reject all bids or to waive any informalities in the bidding. Award of this contract is contingent on funds available.

No bid shall be withdrawn for a period of ninety (90) days subsequent to opening bids without the consent of the HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER. HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER Michael D. Lacey.

Chairman Brian L. Yaworsky Executive Director

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HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER BEAVER, PENNSYLVANIA INVITATION TO BID The HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER will receive sealed bids, in duplicate, until 9:30 AM. (local time) on Thursday, December 30, 2021 at the office of the Housing Authority of the County of Beaver, James F. Tress Administration Building, 300 State Street (Vanport), Beaver, Pennsylvania at which time and place all bids will be publicly be opened and read aloud at 10:30 A.M for the following: CONTRACT TITLE: WASTE COMPACTION REPLACEMENT 12 Public Housing “Elderly Sites 1.

Joseph Edwards Elderly, 330 Connecticut Avenue, Rochester 2.

Eleanor Roosevelt Apartments, 740 Sheffield Avenue, Aliquippa 3.

George Werner Apartments, 599 8th Avenue, Freedom 4.

Thomas Bishop Apartments, 1023 Sixth Avenue, New Brighton 5.

Gordon Camp Elderly, 225 Jefferson Street, Rochester 6.

Ambridge Towers, 500 Beaver Road, Ambridge 7.

Brodhead Apartments, 712 12th Street, Beaver Falls 8.

Monacatootha Apartments, 105 4th Street, Monaca 9.

King Beaver Apartments, 680 Canal Street, Beaver 10. Sheffield Towers, 100 Superior Avenue, Aliquippa 11. Corak Towers, 500 Beaver Avenue, Midland 12. A.C. Edgecombe Apartments at Francis Farmer Apartments, 274 Friendship Circle, Beaver, PA 15009 Proposed forms of contract documents, including Plans and Specifications are being distributed, with twenty-four-hour prior notice of pick-up, by Haus Company, 921 Ridge Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, by phone (412) 2317700 or fax (412)231-7709. All prime bidders are REQUIRED to buy the full set of plans and specifications. Contact Haus Company for cost of plans and specifications. Free examination of said documents are available at the office of Canzian/Johnston & Associates LLC and Pennsylvania Builders Exchange. DEPOSITS ARE NOT REFUNDABLE. Plans and specifications are available on Thursday, December 2, 2021.

A certified check or bank draft, payable to the HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER, U.S. Government Bonds or a satisfactory bid bond executed by the bidder and acceptable securities in an amount equal to fifteen percent (15%) of the bid, shall be submitted with each bid.

All required Contract Documents must be completed and submitted with the bid. The successful bidder will be required to furnish and pay for satisfactory performance, labor and material, and maintenance bonds of 100% with good and sufficient surety, and will be required to provide same within ten (10) days of contract award.

Prior to award of any contract the Housing Authority will conduct a pre-contract survey of a Bidder’s past performance. Consideration will be given to such matters as bidder’s integrity, compliance with the public policy, record of past performance, and financial and technical resources.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY REQUIREMENTS: The Contractor will be required to comply with all applicable Equal Employment Opportunity requirements for Federally-assisted Construction Contracts.

The Contractor must insure that employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sexual preference, handicap or national origin. The work to be performed under this contract is subject Section 3 Compliance.

A Pre-Bid Conference will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, December 17, 2021 at A.C. Edgecombe Apartments, 1150 Bechtel Street, Monaca, PA 15061 MASKS ARE REQUIRED, TEMPERATURES WILL BE TAKEN AND SOCIAL DISTRANCING IS REQUIRED. The HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER reserves the right to reject all bids or to waive any informalities in the bidding. Award of this contract is contingent on funds available.

No bid shall be withdrawn for a period of ninety (90) days subsequent to opening bids without the consent of the HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER. HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF BEAVER Domenic Leone Chairman Brian L. Yaworsky Executive Director REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL The Allegheny County Department of Human Services recently issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for Information Technology Support and Professional Services. Due Date: 3 p.m. Eastern Time on Friday, January 28, 2022.

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

Erin Dalton Director

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OFFICIAL ADVERTISEMENT THE BOARD OF PUBLIC EDUCATION OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PITTSBURGH Sealed proposals shall be deposited at the Administration Building, Bellefield Entrance Lobby, 341 South Bellefield Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pa., 15213, on December 21, 2021, until 2:00 P.M., local prevailing time for: Pittsburgh Grandview K-5 Domestic Water Booster Pump Plumbing Prime Project Manual and Drawings will be available f or pur chase on November 29, 2021, at Modern Reproductions (412-488-7700), 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.

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

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR COMBUSTION AND HOT WATER SERVICES AUTHORITY WIDE REBID IFB #300-26-21-REBID The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby requests bids from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): Combustion and Hot Water Services Authority Wide The documents will be available no later than December 6, 2021 and signed, sealed bids will be accepted until 9:00 AM on December 28, 2021. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will only be accepting physical bids dropped off in person from 8:00 AM until the closing time of 9:00 AM on December 28, 2021 in the lobby of 100 Ross St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Bids may be uploaded to the Authority’s online submission site, the link is accessible via the HACP website and within the IFB. 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.

Parties or individuals interested in responding may download a copy of the Solicitation from the Business Opportunities page of www.HACP.org.

Questions or inquiries should be directed to: Mr. Kim Detrick Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-643-2832 A pre-submission meeting will be held via Zoom meeting; on December 17, 2021 at 9:00 AM. Please see meeting information below: Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 916 1836 1085 Passcode: 187917 +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington D.C) The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation.

HACP has revised their website.

As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and log-in, in order to view and download IFB/ RFPs documentation.

Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.

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DECEMBER 8-14, 2021

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SONNY BOY

PORT AUTHORITY OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY Electronic Proposals will be received online at the Port Authority of Allegheny County s Ebusiness website (http://ebusiness.portauthority.org).

Proposals bid submittals will be due 11:00 AM on December 21, 2021 and will be read at 11:15 AM., the same day, at Port Authority s Hein location (345 Sixth Avenue, Third Floor, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222-2527) as well as through your web browser via Microsoft Teams video conferencing, for the following: Electronic Proposal - Ebusiness website (http://ebusiness.portauthority.org)

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Bid Number B211184A B211185 B211186A B211188A B211189 B211190A B211191A

Bid Name Diesel Engine Oil Turnout Frogs Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) Reman/Exchange Fuel Injectors – Cummins Engines LRV Brake Control Boards Pest Control Services Cummins ISB Engine Replacement Parts

To join the Bid Opening by Microsoft Teams call-in number: • 412-927-0245 United State, Pittsburgh (Toll) • Conference ID: 198 436 989# Paper Proposal – Documents are available for the following item at Port Authority s Main Offices 345 Sixth Avenue, Third Floor, Pittsburgh Pennsylvania 15222-2527

1

Bid Number B21-11-87A

Bid Name Leasing & Servicing of Coach Tires

No bidder may withdraw a submitted Proposal for a period of 75 days after the scheduled time for opening of the sealed bids.

A Pre-Bid Conference will be held via tele-conference on each of the above items at 10:00 am December 1, 2021, as well as through your web browser via Microsoft Teams video conference.

To join the Pre-Bid Meeting by Microsoft Team video conference: • https://bit.ly/RFBDec1 To join the Pre-Bid Meeting by Microsoft Teams call-in number: • 412-927-0245 United State, Pittsburgh (Toll) • Conference ID: 265 197 136# Attendance at this meeting is not mandatory, but is strongly encouraged.

Questions regarding any of the above bids will not be entertained by the Port Authority within five (5) business days of the scheduled bid opening.

These contracts may be sub ect to a financial assistance contract between Port Authority of Allegheny County and the nited States Department of Transportation. The Contractor will be required to comply with all applicable Equal Employment Opportunity laws and regulations.

Contractor is responsible for expenses related to acquiring a performance bond and insurance where applicable. All items are to be FOB delivered unless otherwise specified. Costs for delivery, bond, and insurance shall be included in bidder’s proposal pricing.

Port Authority of Allegheny County hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively insure that in regard to any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, disadvantaged business enterprise will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, or national origin in consideration for an award.

The Board of Port Authority reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT Port Authority of Allegheny County REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL NO. 21-09 Port Authority of Allegheny County (Authority) is requesting proposals for the performance of the following service: ARMORED CAR AND CASH MANAGEMENT SERVICES The Authority is requesting proposals for the services of a Contractor to collect, count and deposit currency and coin from fareboxes located at four bus garages and one rail center and to collect, count and deposit currency and coin from Authority s service center, as well as to replenish consumables at approximately 72 ticket vending machines (TVMs), which will be installed across Authority s light rail, busways and other transit system locations (Contract Services). The Agreement will be for a three year period with the option to extend the Agreement up to an additional two years at the sole discretion of Authority.

A copy of the Request for Proposal (RFP) will be available on or after November 29, 2021 and can be obtained by registering at the Port Authority ebusiness website: http://ebusiness.portauthority.org and following the directions listed on the website. Please note that Proposers must register under the ebusiness category of GSREV – Revenue Collection/Armored Car for this RFP. Proposers may also register in other categories for any future RFPs issued by Port Authority. f you have specific questions regarding this RFP, please contact Fred Buckner at (412) 566-5467 or via email FBuckner@PortAuthority.org.

An nformation Meeting for interested parties will be held at 9:30 a.m., prevailing time, December 16, 2021 via Microsoft Teams video conference and or conference call to answer any questions regarding this RFP. To join by Microsoft Team video conference: • https://bit.ly/3Hp5TRn To join by Microsoft Teams call-in number: • 412-927-0245, United States, Pittsburgh (Toll) • Conference ID: 873 696 246# Electronic proposals must be both received, and time stamped by a representative of the Purchasing and Materials Management Department through Authority s Ebusiness website at or before 2:00 p.m., prevailing time, January 3, 2022, at http://ebusiness.portauthority.org. Proposals received or time stamped by a Purchasing and Materials Management Department representative through Authority s Ebusiness website after the advertised time for the submission of proposals shall be non-responsive and therefore ineligible for award. Each Proposer shall be solely responsible for assuring that its proposal is timely received and time stamped in accordance with the requirements herein.

This Contract Services may be funded, in part, by, and sub ect to certain requirements of, the County of Allegheny and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) of the .S. Department of Transportation (DOT). The proposal process and the performance of the requested services will be in accordance with guidelines and regulations of the FTA “Third Party Contracting Guidelines”, FTA Circular 4220.1F, as amended, and all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

Port Authority of Allegheny County, in compliance with 49 C.F.R., Part 26, as amended, implements positive affirmative action procedures to ensure that all Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (“DBEs”) have the maximum opportunity to participate in the performance of contracts and subcontracts financed, in whole or in part, with federal funds, if any, provided under or for the proposed Agreement. n this regard, all recipients or contractors shall take all necessary and reasonable steps in accordance with 49 C.F.R., Part 26, to ensure that DBEs have the maximum opportunity to compete for, and perform contracts and subcontracts for, the Contract Services.

Port Authority of Allegheny County, in compliance with 74 Pa.C.S. § 303, as may be amended, also requires that certified Diverse Businesses, (“DBs”) have the maximum opportunity to compete for, and perform contracts and subcontract for, the Contract Services. n this regard, all Proposers, and the Contractor, shall make good faith efforts, in accordance with 74 Pa.C.S. § 303, to ensure that DBs have the maximum opportunity to compete for, and perform contracts and subcontracts for, the Contract Services.

Further, proposers and the Contractor shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, age, disability, national origin, sex, sexual origin, gender identity or status as a parent in the award and performance of contracts or subcontracts for these Contract Services PORT AUTHORITY OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REJECT ANY OR ALL PROPOSALS.

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HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) FOR PROJECT-BASED VOUCHER & GAP FINANCING PROGRAM 2021 RFP #600-40-21 The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby requests proposals from qualified Firms or ndividuals capable of providing the following service(s):

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) FOR RENT REASONABLENESS SOFTWARE RFP #400-42-21 The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request proposals from qualified Firms or ndividuals capable of providing the following service(s):

Project-Based Voucher & Gap Financing Program 2021 RFP documents will be available on or about December 6th, 2021.

Copies of RFP documents are not available for in-person pickup. Firms interested in responding may obtain a copy of the RFP documents from the Business Opportunities Section of the HACP Website, www.hacp.org.

Prospective Offerors may register as a vendor on the website and download the documents free of charge.

A pre-submission meeting via audio conference will be held via oom on December 17, 2021 at 10:00 A.M.: https://zoom.usj/99759708499?p wd=bEljYWtud1h3UWlhVDV wd0Z1UzlYUT09 Meeting ID: 997 5970 8499 Passcode: 262374 Call-In: +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC) The deadline for final submission of written questions is January 7, 2022 at 10:00 A.M. The deadline for submission of proposals is January 20, 2022 at 10:00A.M. Proposals must be sent to: Mr. Kim Detrick – Procurement Director/Chief Contracting Officer Procurement Department, Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh 100 Ross Street, 2nd Floor, Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will only be accepting physical proposals dropped off in person from 8:00 AM until the closing of 10:00 AM on January 20, 2022.

Proposals may still be submitted electronically at the following link: https://www.dropbox.com/request/ mSF7sVpOKMoZ5hNyhKBC and can 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.

THE HO S NG A THOR T OF THE C T OF P TTSB RGH STRONGL ENCO RAGES CERT F ED M NOR T -OWNED B S NESS ENTERPR SES AND WOMAN-OWNED B S NESS ENTERPR SES TO RESPOND TO TH S SOL C TAT ON. Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.

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RENT REASONABLENESS SOFTWARE The documents will be available no later than November 26, 2021 and signed, sealed proposals will be accepted until 9:00 AM on December 21, 2021. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will only be accepting physical proposals dropped off in person from 8:00 AM until the closing time of 9:00 AM on December 21, 2021 in the lobby of 100 Ross St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Proposals may be uploaded to the Authoritys online submission site, the link is accessible via the HACP website and within the RFP. Sealed proposals may still be mailed via SPS at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.

Parties or individuals interested in responding may download a copy of the Solicitation from the Business Opportunities page of www.HACP.org. uestions or inquiries should be directed to: Mr. Kim Detrick Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-643-2832 A pre-submission meeting will be held via Zoom meeting on December 9, 2021 at 9:00 AM. Please see meeting information below: Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 995 9299 8175 Passcode: 757131 +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington D.C) The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation.

HACP has revised their website.

As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and log-in, in order to view and download IFB/ RFPs documentation.

Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh HACP conducts business in accordance with all federal, state, and local civil rights laws, including but not limited to Title VII, the Fair Housing Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, The PA Human Relations Act, etc. and does not discriminate against any individuals protected by these statutes.

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n the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny, Orphans Court Division, Estate of CAROL A. DERR, deceased, Case No. 8022 of 2021: Notice is hereby given that on October 29, 2021, a Petition was filed by Barbara J. Derr to terminate the interests of the heirs and devisees of Carol A. Derr, deceased, in the real estate located at 1423 Chestnut Street, Turtle Creek, PA 15145 and determine that fee simple title is in Barbara J. Derr. f no exceptions to the Petition are filed within 30 days, Barbara J. Derr will seek an Order ad udging that the interest of Carol A. Derr is now vested in Barbara J. Derr Estate of RUSSELL A. PISHKO, Deceased of Glassport, PA, Estate No. 08331 of 2021 ,Michelle Pishko , Executrix, c o Matthew J. Beam, Esquire, Scolieri Law Group, P.C., 1207 Fifth Avenue, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15219

E-mail: ads@newpittsburghcourier.com

Estate of RYGIEL, JR. THOMAS A. , Deceased of Hampton Township, Estate No.: 06707 of 2021, Norberta A. Rygiel, Apt.A, 41 Spring Street, Keyser W 26726, Executrix, or to MICHAEL J. SALDAMARCO, ESQ., STE. 100, 908 Perry HWY. Pittsburgh, PA 15229

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

Estate of NANCY R. VON VRECKIN, Deceased of Ross Township, Pennsylvania, Estate No.: 02-21-08287, Joyce on reckin, Executor, P.O. Box 22 Wildwood, PA 15091, or to Robin L. Rarie, Atty; BRENLOVE & FULLER, LLC. 401 Washington Avenue Bridgeville, PA 15017

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Estate of WAYNE G. WEHRER, Deceased of Munhall, Pennsylvania, Estate No.: 02-21-08616, Bobbie Gale Wehrer, Executor, or to Travis J. Dunn, Atty; 6 Clairton Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15236

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DECEMBER 8-14, 2021

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