2.12.25 NPC

by Marcia Liggett

For New Pittsburgh Courier

It's taken years, but Aliquippa kids now have the chance to experience the "Boys and Girls Club," right in their own backyard.

Boys and Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania (BGCWPA) opened the doors of the "Aliquippa Clubhouse," located inside Aliquippa Jr./Sr. High School., on Aug. 26, 2024, the New Pittsburgh Courier has learned exclusively. Pittsburghers have long had their exposure to the Boys and Girls Club, as there are standalone locations in Shadyside, Carnegie and Lawrenceville, among others. BGCWPA also operates teen centers in Downtown Pittsburgh and McKeesport, and has locations within schools such as Sto-Rox Upper Elementary. It even has an affiliate in Somerset County.

Recognized nationally for providing life-changing programming for children, Boys and Girls Clubs of America has been a valued community resource for more than 100 years.

Former Boys and Girls Clubs participant and Aliquippa native, Dr. Melvin Steals Sr., told the Courier he worked for more than two decades to get a Boys and Girls Clubs affiliate in Aliquippa. The former Aliquippa English teacher for 21 years and Aliquippa middle school principal, Dr. Steals recalled the impact the club had on his life.

“Young people today don’t have the opportunities we had, as the highly effective villages, like the ones in which I grew up, no longer exist," Dr. Steals told the Courier. Boys and Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania has programs and life-changing impacts through proven practices that they’ve perfected upon the lives of the youth who frequently pass through the doors of their sites. They can get our kids moving in the right direction.”

Dr. Steals also told the Courier about his college classmate from decades ago, Charlie Grantham, who later became the first

by Genea L Webb

For New Pittsburgh Courier

New York-based play-

wright Layon Gray sees his latest play, "Feed the Beast: The Tuskegee Experiment on the Negro Male," as his new masterpiece.

“I gave this play an old school presentation," Gray told the New Pittsburgh Courier. "A lot of times, today’s theater is shortened because of attention span, but I said this play deserves to be a full two hours and 20 minutes because it spans 40 years and I didn’t want to cheat the whole 40 years of this experience."

“Feed the Beast” tells the story of the horrific Tuskegee, Alabama, medical experiments from 1932 to 1972. It follows a young, Black idealistic doctor who unearths the truth of the diabolical syphilis ex-

periments. The production takes theatergoers on a journey following five unknowing participants in this secret study. Through their lives, the play shines a harsh light on the brutality of the study.

New Horizon Theater

Chairperson, Joyce Meggerson-Moore, first saw “Feed the Beast” at the International Black Theater Festival last year. She instantly knew it would be the perfect offering for the theater’s Black History Month show.

“This is a historical play that people need to know about. You get to see the happy times in the men’s lives, too,” Meggerson-Moore said. “We hope that after seeing the play, people will do some more research on it because we were able to come out of this terrible

Hip-hop mourns loss of Irv Gotti; Murder Inc. founder dies at 54

by Stacy M. Brown

NNPA

Newswire Senior National Correspondent

Hip-hop icon and record executive Irving “Irv Gotti” Lorenzo Jr., the mastermind behind Murder Inc. Records, has died at 54. The cause of death has not been announced, though Gotti had battled diabetes-related issues and suffered multiple strokes in recent years.

Def Jam co-founder Russell Simmons was among the first to pay tribute, calling attention to Gotti’s impact and the broader health crisis affecting Black men and women.

“Brothers and sisters, please don’t let Irv Gotti go without acknowledging the tragedy of his death and the state of Black health in America,” Simmons urged. “This talented, beautiful, happy, curious, enthusiastic spirit has left his body way too soon. I am sure God will receive him with love. To the Black men and women of America still here to face this crisis, the epidemic of chronic diseases and illnesses is a result of America’s food industry poisoning you and the normalization of bad diets and lack of self-care. Those following great nutritionists like Dr. Sebi are walking away from this cycle of sickness. Help your brothers and sisters take the same path.”

Gotti rose to prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s, shaping the careers of Ja Rule, Ashanti, and DMX. His signature production style fused hip-hop beats with melodic hooks, creating crossover hits that dominated radio and television from 2001 to 2004. He played

a pivotal role in crafting chart-topping singles such as I’m Real and Ain’t It Funny with Jennifer Lopez and Ja Rule and Foolish and Always on Time with Ashanti.

Before launching Murder Inc. in 1998, Gotti worked as an A&R at Def Jam, where he helped sign Jay-Z, DMX, and Ja Rule. Under his DJ moniker, DJ Irv, he produced Can I Live from Jay-Z’s Reasonable Doubt album. His influence extended beyond hip-hop, co-producing Vanessa Carlton’s Heroes and Thieves album alongside Rick Rubin and Stephan Jenkins.

Lyor Cohen, the former Def Jam executive now serving as YouTube’s global head of music, recalled Gotti’s contributions. “Def Jam has lost one of its most creative soldiers who was hip-hop,” Cohen stated. “When we were on bended knee, he brought the heat and saved us. He came from a very tight, beautiful family from Queens, and it’s an honor and a privilege to have known him. Irv, you will be missed.”

Gotti’s career faced challenges in the mid-2000s when an FBI investigation into alleged ties with drug kingpin Kenneth “Supreme” McGriff led to a raid on Murder Inc.’s offices. Though acquitted, the case tarnished the label’s reputation. In recent years, Gotti pivoted to television, launching the BET anthology series Tales, blending hip-hop and storytelling.

Steve Rifkind, founder of Loud Records, recalled his longtime friendship with Gotti. “I met Irv in 1993 when he had Mic Geronimo signed to him. We al-

ways laughed about what would have happened if he had gone to Loud,” Rifkind reminisced. “After his case in the mid-2000s, we both ended up at Universal, where he had Lloyd and I had Akon. Doug Morris had a plan for us, but we never quite figured out what it was. We just knew we had lunch with him and Mel Lewinter every Monday for a year. We never found out what the plan was, but boy, did we learn a lot and have a lot of laughs. To the Gotti, Lorenzo, and Murder Inc. family, my heart goes out to all of you.”

Gotti is survived by his children, Angie, Sonny, and Jonathan Wilson; his mother, Nee Nee Lorenzo; his sisters, Tina and Angie; and his brother, Chris Lorenzo, with whom he co-founded Murder Inc.

“Rest in peace, Irv. You were such a beautiful soul but gone too soon,” Simmons said.

Black federal employees targeted in public blacklist as Trump and Musk continue assault on diversity

by Stacy M. Brown

A right-wing nonprofit backing Donald Trump has published the names and photos of more than 50 federal employees, many of them Black, in a move that civil rights advocates warn could endanger lives and deepen systemic discrimination in government agencies. The “D.E.I. bureaucrat watch list,” compiled by the American Accountability Foundation, identifies workers based on their support for diversity, equity, and inclusion (D.E.I.) initiatives, past social media activity, or donations to Democratic candidates.

The employees—many of them serving at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Institutes of

Health (NIH), and other federal health agencies— have been labeled by the organization as “woke D.E.I. devotees” and targets for termination under Trump’s administration. The group claims these individuals are “anti-American bad actors.” The organization has circulated dossiers detailing their purported offenses, which include reposting content about racial disparities in healthcare or making critical remarks about Trump’s policies. Supporters of the targeted workers have expressed alarm, warning that the public identification of government employees in this manner could lead to harassment, violence, and job loss. One federal employee, whose name appeared on the list, told The New York Times, “My name and picture are out there. In 2025, it’s very simple to Google and look up someone’s home address. What happens next?” Another individual described the move to NBC News as “psychological warfare” against civil servants simply trying to do their jobs. The list is part of a broader right-wing effort to dismantle diversity programs and purge public institutions of individuals seen as obstacles to Trump’s agenda. The American Accountability Foundation, founded in 2020 to undermine the Biden-Harris administration, has ramped up its efforts since Trump’s return to power along with Elon Musk. The organization has been financially backed by groups like the Heritage Foundation, which authored the Project 2025 blueprint that outlines an aggressive strategy to reshape the federal government along far-right ideological lines. The federal employees on the list are not high-level policymakers but career professionals in public health, research, and regulatory affairs. Some were singled out for social media posts made years before they entered government service. Others were flagged for professional work aimed at addressing racial disparities in healthcare—a field backed

This Week In Black History A Courier Staple

•FEBRUARY 12

1793—Congress passes the first Fugitive Slave Law. The law made it easier for a slave owner to re-take control of a slave who had escaped to freedom. Blacks and their supporters were outraged because the 1793 law only required the “word” of a White man before a magistrate to declare any Black person a runaway slave and have him or her arrested and placed in bondage. Under the law, even Blacks who had earned their freedom or had never been slaves were placed in danger.

1900—Legendary poet James Weldon Johnson (1871-1938) writes the lyrics to the song “Lift Every Voice and Sing” as part of a birthday tribute to Abraham Lincoln. In time, the song would become the Black National Anthem.

1909—The NAACP is formally founded by a group of 60 progressive Blacks and Whites in New York City. The organization, originally called the National Negro Committee, was the outgrowth of the Niagara Movement, which met in Niagara, N.Y., in 1905. The NAACP would go on to become, and remains, the nation’s largest civil rights organization.

1930—The infamous Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment is funded. More than 400 Black men from rural parts of Georgia and Alabama are lured into the program with the promise that they would be treated for syphilis. But the program was actually designed to study the effects of untreated syphilis on the body. Thus, the men were given fake anti-syphilis medicines as their diseases advanced. The unethical “experiment” went on for 40 years as most of the men gradually died. A reporter exposed the study in 1972. Several government agencies, including the U.S. Public Health Service and Centers for Disease Control, were involved. On behalf of the nation, in 1997 President Bill Clinton apologized to Charlie Pollard and other surviving members of the racist experiment.

•FEBRUARY 13

1635—The nation’s first public school is established in Boston, Mass. It was called the Boston Latin School. Blacks could not attend.

for the times, a group of Black and White abolitionists invade a Boston courtroom and forcibly free a fugitive slave before he could be sent back to the South. Shadrach Minkins was hidden from slave-catchers and he later fled to Canada.

1961—A group of U.S. Blacks and African nationalists disrupt a session of the United Nations to protest the slaying of Patrice Lumumba in the Congo. Lumumba was one of Africa’s bright and shining stars. But his nationalism and socialism frightened some Western nations. It is widely believed that Belgium intelligence and America’s CIA arranged the killing of Lumumba.

1965—Great singer and Jazz pianist Nat King Cole dies of lung cancer in Santa Monica, Calif. He was only 45. Cole was the first Black entertainer with his own radio program and later he became the first with a nationally televised TV variety show.

• FEBRUARY 16

1923—The “Empress of the Blues” Bessie Smith makes her first recording—“Downhearted Blues”—which immediately sells more than 800,000 copies for Columbia Records and more than 2 million copies by the end of the year. Those were astounding numbers for those days. The Chattanooga, Tenn., born Smith used her sweeping and powerful voice to sing songs of Black culture and real life such as “Nobody Knows You When You Are Down And Out,” “St. Louis Blues,” “Give Me A Pig Foot And A Bottle Of Beer” and the controversial “Give Me A Reefer And A Gang Of Gin.” She died in an automobile accident in 1937 in Clarksdale, Miss. Early reports that her death was caused by Mississippi medical personnel who refused to treat her because she was Black have never been verified.

• FEBRUARY 17

by decades of research showing systemic disadvantages for Black, Latino, and low-income communities in medical treatment and health outcomes.

The move is consistent with Trump’s broader crackdown on diversity initiatives, which he has labeled a form of discrimination against White Americans. His allies in Congress have used similar rhetoric, disparaging Vice President Kamala Harris as a “D.E.I. hire” and insisting that affirmative action and diversity programs unfairly favor minorities. Trump has refused to disavow these remarks and has framed his dismantling of federal D.E.I. offices as “the most important federal civil rights measure in decades.”

Musk, meanwhile, has provided a platform for Trump’s anti-diversity rhetoric through his control of X (formerly Twitter). His rollback of content moderation policies has led to a resurgence of far-right extremism and disinformation, further fueling efforts to discredit D.E.I. and intimidate those who support it.

Legal experts warn that publicly outing government employees for their beliefs and professional work sets a dangerous precedent.

“Trump’s attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion aren’t about policy. They are a sanitized substitute for the racist comments that can no longer be spoken openly,” said Margaret Huang, president and CEO of the Southern Poverty Law Center, in remarks published by The New York Times. “But the message is the same: that Black and brown Americans are inherently less capable, and if they hold positions of power, the standards must have been lowered.”

“This is a return to blacklisting,” said Timothy Welbeck, director of Temple University’s Center for Anti-Racism, in comments reported by NBC News.

“From McCarthy-era tactics to modern-day doxxing, the goal remains the same: silence opposition and dismantle diversity efforts.”

1907—Wendell P. Dabney establishes the groundbreaking Black newspaper known as The Union, in Cincinnati, Ohio. The paper’s motto was “For no people can become great without being united, for in union there is strength.”

•FEBRUARY 14

1760—The great religious leader Richard Allen is born in slavery in Philadelphia. After being required to sit in the back of a White church, Allen would go on to help found and become the first active bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Today, the church, one of the largest predominantly Black denominations in America, has more than 1 million members in the U.S., Canada, the Caribbean and Africa. Allen died in 1831.

1817—This is the most likely birthdate of abolitionist and orator Frederick Douglass. Douglass purchased his freedom in 1845 and went on to become the most influential Black leader of his day. He did most of his work while living in Rochester, N.Y. But after the Civil War, he moved to Washington, D.C.

1867—One of the nation’s most distinguished institutions of higher learning, Morehouse College, was founded on this day in Augusta, Ga., as the Augusta Institute. It moved to Atlanta in 1879 and became the Atlanta Baptist Seminary. It became “Morehouse” in 1913. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. graduated from Morehouse.

1936—The National Negro Congress is organized on this day at a meeting in Chicago, Ill., attended by more than 800 delegates representing nearly 500 Black organizations. A. Phillip Randolph, head of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, is elected president. One of the Congress’ chief aims was to generate national support for the “New Deal” legislation of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The Chicago Defender described the Congress as “the most ambitious effort for bringing together members of the Race on any single issue.” Up until this time, most Black voters were Republicans. But the National Negro Congress and Roosevelt’s social betterment programs led to a massive African American switch to the Democratic Party.

• FEBRUARY 15

1804—The New Jersey legislature passes a law leading to the gradual elimination of slavery in the state. However, the process was so gradual that there were still slaves in New Jersey right up to the start of the Civil War in 1860.

1851—In an extraordinary bold move

1902—Opera legend Marian Anderson is born in Philadelphia. Her tremendous operatic talent was revealed at 17 when she was entered into a New York Philharmonic competition and placed first among 299 entrants. Despite her fame she suffered from racist rejection. On Easter Sunday 1939, she performed an open air recital at the Lincoln Memorial because the all-White Daughters of the American Revolution refused to allow her to sing at Washington, D.C.’s Constitution Hall. (NOTE: Throughout her life Anderson gave her birth as Feb. 17, 1902. However, newly discovered evidence suggests she was actually born Feb. 27, 1897.) She died April 8, 1993. 1942—Black Panther Party co-founder Huey P. Newton is born. The Panthers were perhaps the most militant Black organization of the 1960s. At its height, it had thousands of members in several major cities. But it was also the target of massive operations by the FBI and local police departments. Dozens of Panthers would be killed, often under suspicious circumstances. A little known fact, however, is that throughout it all, Newton, an illiterate high school dropout, taught himself to read and in 1980 earned a Ph.D. in social philosophy from the University of California, Santa Cruz. His dissertation was entitled, “War Against the Panthers—A Study of Repression in America.” Newton was found shot to death on an Oakland, Calif., street in 1989. 1963—Perhaps the greatest player to ever dribble a basketball, Michael Jordan, was born on this day in Brooklyn, N.Y. However, his family moved and he played high school basketball in Wilmington, N.C.

1982—The nation’s greatest Jazz pianist and composer Thelonious Monk dies. Born in Rocky Mount, N.C., Monk moved with his family to New York City when he was 4. His classic work was “Round Midnight.”

2006—African American skater Shani Davis wins the men’s 1,000-meter speed-skating race in Turin, Italy. He became the first Black person to win an individual gold medal in the history of the Winter Olympics.

• FEBRUARY 18

1688—The first formal protest against slavery is conducted by a group of Quakers in Germantown, Pa. They denounced slavery and the slave trade. The Quakers were perhaps the only religious group in America that never compromised and consistently opposed slavery. 1913—The Delta Sigma Theta Sorority was incorporated at Howard University. 1931—Author Toni Morrison is born Chloe Anthony Wofford in Lorain, Ohio. She won the Pulitzer Prize for Literature in 1993 for her novel, “Beloved.”

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Boys and Girls Clubs of Western Pa. are cherished

PITTSBURGH STEELERS QUARTERBACK RUSSELL

AND GIRLS FROM A1

Executive Vice President and Executive Director of the NBA Players Association and is currently the Director of the Center for Sport Management at Seton Hall University. Grantham told Dr. Steals how his involvement in the Boys and Girls Clubs affiliate in Bethlehem, Pa., at age 9 changed the course of his life.

Virginia "Ginny" Householder, director of the Aliquippa Clubhouse, told the Courier that BGCWPA "is a vital resource to participants, and helps working parents with after-school childcare."

Householder said the club is open weekdays from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m., and bus transportation is provided for students to get to and from the clubhouse.

Boys and Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania's reputation is so cherished, that Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson and his wife, R&B singer Ciara, opened their "Why Not You" center at the Shadyside standalone

clubhouse on Brownell Street. More than 100 kids were there for the ribbon-cutting, greeting and interacting with Wilson and Ciara, Dec. 10, 2024.

“Ciara and I are blessed to give back to the community and make a positive impact in the lives of young people," Wilson said in a statement provided to media outlets.

"Opening our first 'Why Not You Center' in partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Pennsylvania is a significant step toward creating lasting change."

Back in Aliquippa, trained instructors utilize a strict routine to achieve club goals. Students must complete homework, then can participate in additional activities, which include conducting science projects, learning about technology, the arts and educational-based enrichment. Great emphasis is placed on academic success, career- and life-readiness, character and leadership development, and healthy lifestyles.

“We like to do something we call 'positive action' with our kids," Householder told the Courier. "Our Teen Out-

reach Program (TOP) is where the healthy lifestyle coach (Sadie Tucker) goes into seventh- and ninth-grade rooms once

Aliquippa Clubhouse— four seventh-graders, and the others are in elementary school. While there is a cost for a student to be

a week and they go over things like goal-setting, self-esteem, and topics that are important to the kids. We bring this to our after-school program by addressing a question of the day just to get them thinking. This helps with their emotions. I think it’s healthy to have and maintain those conversations with the kids and we typically have great participation from them.”

Hot meals and snacks are served daily, which Householder said helps both students and their families.

Currently, 14 students are enrolled in the

enrolled, none of the students' parents are coming out of pocket thanks to the federally-funded Child Care Works (CCW) program.

“All the children that are coming to this particular program at the Aliquippa School District are eligible for either CCW or the scholarship program,"

Householder said.

Householder also said there are plans to accept more students in the coming weeks and months.

Space inside the clubhouse, located inside the Aliquippa Jr./Sr. High School, can accommodate 24 students.

“We have already noticed positive changes with the students, as they build a rapport with school and program employees, and their overall trust with the program has grown,” shared Householder.

“Some kids come to the door and tell us they want to sign up since their peers are talking about the program, which is positive. Students also gain familiarity with the middle and high school campus.”

During a Courier visit to the Aliquippa Clubhouse on Feb. 7, Taylor, 13, a seventh-grader, was playing a word search game on the big screen as she awaited more of her clubhouse peers to appear. Taylor told the Courier that she enjoys sitting at the table with the other students, communicating about how each person's school day fared.

Assistant Director of the Aliquippa Clubhouse, Victoria Lachoo, was busy bringing in boxes of pizza for the kids during the Courier visit. She said she's noticed the kids learning "how to handle their conflicts" and "how to be able to address their feelings," while Tucker told the Courier she's noticed the quieter kids have "just completely come out of their shell, which has been a blessing for me to see."

(Editor's note: Rob Taylor Jr. contributed to this story.)

BOYS

WILSON AND HIS WIFE, R&B SINGER CIARA, JOINED KIDS AT THE SHADYSIDE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB LOCATION, DEC. 10, 2024. (PHOTO COURTESY/ STEELERS)

THIRTEEN-YEAR-OLD TAYLOR ENJOYS BEING PART OF THE ALIQUIPPA CLUBHOUSE.

DR. MELVIN STEALS SR., STANDING.

A spotlight on the infamous Tuskegee Experiment

'Feed The Beast,' New Horizon's play, runs until Feb. 23

and be able to interpret this. They weren’t just a bunch of old men who were a part of an exciting experiment.”

The play runs from Feb. 13-23 for 11 performances at the Pittsburgh Public Theater's Helen Wayne Rauh Rehearsal Hall, 621 Penn Ave., Downtown. Tickets can be purchased at newhorizontheater.org, Dorsey's Digital Imaging in Homewood, or by calling 412-431-0773. This will be the tenth play from Gray that New Horizon Theater Inc., has pro -

duced. “We are glad that we are one of the people he trusts to put his work on stage. It’s been wonderful working with his group," said Meggerson-Moore. “His actors are good and they can interpret his work. We see the good work he does. He’s a writer, director, actor and choreographer. We are glad to be associated with him. We want people to know they don’t have to go to New York to see topnotch productions. They are right here in Pittsburgh.” Gray, who hails from

Shaggy to perform at Heinz Hall with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra

by Merecedes J. Williams

For New Pittsburgh Courier Pittsburgh is about to experience reggae like never before.

On Wednesday, Feb. 26, at 7:30 p.m., the legendary Shaggy will take the stage at Heinz Hall, Downtown Pittsburgh, blending the vibrant beats of Jamaican music with the grandeur of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra (PSO).

Known for his iconic hits “It Wasn’t Me,” “Angel,” and "Boombastic,” the multi-GRAMMY-winning artist will showcase a sweeping journey through Jamaican musical history.

From the early sounds of mento, ska, and rocksteady to the evolution of reggae and dancehall, Shaggy’s performance will highlight the genre’s deep cultural roots and its undeniable global influence.

“The way I’m doing this concert is a history of Jamaican music, not just the Shaggy catalog,” said Shaggy, in an exclusive interview with the New Pittsburgh Courier, Jan. 9. “It is some of the songs from some of my heroes,” Shaggy said, like Peter Tosh and Yellowman.

“There’s an incredible amount of storytelling in between each song. It should be interesting and entertaining at the same time,” Shaggy said. The collaboration between Shaggy and the PSO features orchestral arrangements by David Serkin Ludwig, Dean and Director of the Music Division at Juilliard, and will be conducted by Moon Doh. The fusion of Shaggy’s infectious energy, his band’s signature grooves, and the PSO’s world-class musicianship should equal an unforgettable night of music.

Born in Kingston, Jamaica in 1968, Shaggy (birth name Orville Burrell) eventually moved to Brooklyn with his mother. It was there where Shaggy began to hone his craft in the world of music. However, before the world came to know of Shaggy, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps

Louisiana, believes the lack of medical attention afforded to African Americans back in the 1930s, combined with the current political landscape in the U.S., makes it the perfect time to make the production. “I like to tell human stories and I wanted to (discuss) the Selma walk, the Pettus Bridge, Shirley Chisolm’s run for president, JFK’s assassination," etc. "All these moments were happening at the same time as the Tuskegee experiments. When I create characters, I make sure everyone can identify with them

whether they are Black or White. The guys in the play have families and friends. They have dreams and goals they want to accomplish but they are getting sicker and sicker and they don’t know why," Gray explained.

The play, which premiered at the 2024 International Black Theatre Festival and sold out every show, is making its regional debut with the Pittsburgh shows. Following his time in Pittsburgh, Gray will be working on a new historical piece in France. He was one of four Black

writers chosen from around the world by the La Napoule Art Foundation Board of Trustees and the James Baldwin estate for a prestigious artist residency in Southern France in the French Riviera. The partnership aims to nurture creativity, foster intellectual exchanges, and amplify the voices of Black writers worldwide.

“A friend submitted my information to them. I was shocked when I got the call that I had been chosen. I’m honored to be able to sit and create something there,” Gray told the Courier. New Horizon is also gearing up to finish out the rest of its season. The theater’s annual fundraising event will be held on May 3 and its last production of the season will be the musical “Sistas,” which will run in July and be directed by Eileen J. Morris. Said Meggerson-Moore to the Courier: “We need audiences to attend to keep this cultural treasure alive in Pittsburgh."

in 1988 as an artilleryman. He served with 5th Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, based at Camp Lejeune, N.C., according to a bio on the Department of Defense website. Shaggy was among those who deployed to the Middle East during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. By the time Shaggy was discharged from the Marine Corps in 1992, Shaggy attained the highest rank of lance corporal. In the '90s, Shaggy found success with the song "Oh Carolina," but even greater success with the song, "Boombastic," a regular hit in the mid-'90s on radio stations everywhere, like WAMO in Pittsburgh. In 2000, Shaggy released the album, "Hot Shot," which featured the song that propelled him to the top of the charts; "It Wasn't Me."

The catchy song reached the No. 1 spot in the U.S., Australia, Belgium, Croatia, Canada, France, Ireland, Poland, and the Netherlands. Also on that album was the song, "Angel," which also reached No. 1 in the U.S. and 11 other countries.

As Shaggy prepares for his show with the PSO, this isn't Shaggy's first rodeo with a symphony accompaniment. In November 2024, he joined other artists and the Philharmonic Orchestra of Antwerp for the Night of Proms, Europe’s largest indoor event. Shaggy recalled this Belgium concert series as “19 shows, 25,000 capacity, 60-piece orchestra and we had a fantastic time." Shaggy added, jokingly: “It was a wonderful tour. We made a lot of friends, and a lot of partying." This isn’t Shaggy’s first trip to Pittsburgh; he told the Courier he's very familiar with the area. “There are a lot of Caribbean people (in Pittsburgh)," Shaggy said, "and hopefully they’ll be in the house to bring that energy and vibe.”

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

Violence Prevention

Carlos. T. Carter, President and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh, comments on this month’s health focus on violence prevention, including how the UL provides community support to Black youth.

Q: Carlos, how does the Urban League provide supportive adults for youth through its Black Male Leadership Development Institute (BMLDI) and Black Female Leadership Development Institute (BFLDI) programs?

Carlos: By partnering with mentors and faculty from institutions like Slippery Rock University.

In these programs, youth research and identify key causes of violence in their communities — then present their findings to local stakeholders such as the mayor and city council members. The youth also create public service announcements (PSAs) about bullying and use them to mentor middle school students. These activities take place in environments with clinical staff who guide youth through trauma-informed discussions.

During critical after-school hours and on weekends, the programs ensure that youth are

surrounded by caring adults who offer a supportive environment to help them focus on their goals. The mentors listen in a nonjudgmental way and provide a safe space for youth to be vulnerable, heard, and supported. This helps to reduce youth stress, boosts mental health, and strengthens resilience, allowing youth to thrive. By fostering hope and emotional support, the program encourages youth to manage their emotions, reduce violence, and become positive, civic-minded leaders who will drive community.

Q: Sounds great! How does the Urban League help families with violence prevention?

Carlos: In partnership with organizations like Wesley Family Services, the UL Family Support Center focuses on violence prevention, including therapy. They offer

workshops for parents through a Parent Advisory Council that addresses the impact of violence as well as how to prevent it.

A Family Development Specialist refers families, particularly those affected by violence, to community partners that specialize in violence prevention.

By building strong, trusting relationships with families, the center becomes a safe space where families can find the help they need.

Additionally, our men’s support groups engage fathers and male role models in promoting anti-violence efforts in communities like Duquesne and Northview. These initiatives help families strengthen their capacity to support their youth and prevent them from

encountering or witnessing violence.

Addressing poverty is critical to addressing violence in our communities. Beyond violence prevention, the Urban League works to remove barriers that contribute to poverty. Through the Center for Economic Self-Reliance, we connect families to training opportunities and support them in overcoming obstacles that prevent them from thriving.

We also help individuals find suitable housing and provide homeownership counseling. These services, along with those offered by the Family Support Center, support the well-being of families and empower them to create safer, more stable environments for their children.

Strong adult relationships protect Black youth in areas affected by violence

Black youth suffer unequally from community violence, which takes a toll on their mental health. When youth experience violence directly, they face even greater mental health challenges, including higher rates of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic

13-21 and the key adults in their lives. Participants lived in 20 different Pittsburgh neighborhoods.

Most of the youth identified as Black. Most had been impacted by violence in the past month. About 75% had been harmed by someone else while almost

“One parent noted how important it is to respond to her child’s feelings in a serious manner. She noted that adults often dismiss their kid’s feelings. Instead, parents should respond thoughtfully and help their child work through what’s happening.”

— DR. TYIA WILSON

they listed ‘reliability’ and ‘availability’ as fundamental to their relationships with their kids,” says Dr. Wilson. “One parent referred to it as always ‘having their child’s back.’”

Nonjudgement

stress disorder (PTSD).

Daily, real-time racism and discrimination in social settings and public places (including microaggressions) can make mental health conditions even harder to regulate. That leaves youth feeling more unsafe, anxious, and stressed.

Dr. Tyia Wilson, Research Assistant Professor in the University of Pittsburgh’s Pediatrics Department, is studying how communities can protect Black youth from violence-related mental health challenges. What she’s finding is that caring, supportive adult relationships play a role in improving young people’s mental health outcomes by giving them a greater sense of stability, direction, and safety.

One of Dr. Wilson’s studies focused on youth ages

all had witnessed violence. The study’s key adults were made up of mostly parents and grandparents but also included coaches and other family members. Through detailed interviews, surveys, and analysis, Dr. Wilson and her team identified the key qualities that make up a strong, protective adult/ youth relationship.

Dependability

“Many of the youth we interviewed valued the dependability and unwavering support of an adult, which one youth described as ‘just being there,’” says Dr. Wilson. Another youth reported that his adult had ‘…been there [for me] no matter what — just helping me always. If I need anything, I just ask him.’

Adults in the study echoed this quality. “In addition to dependability,

Another protective quality is a parent’s ability to be nonjudgmental. One youth summed it up this way: If I call my mom for a ride from a party where everyone is fighting or getting high, I want her to focus on the call, not punishment or judgement. “When a parent can do that,” says Dr. Wilson, “their child is more likely to trust and rely on them in other difficult moments when they feel unsafe.”

Again, adult participants agreed. “One parent noted how important it is to respond to her child’s feelings in a serious manner,” says Dr. Wilson. “She noted that adults often dismiss their kid’s feelings. Instead, parents should respond thoughtfully and help their child work through what’s happening.”

Friendship A close, nurturing friendship with an adult is also protective according to research participants. One youth described her moth-

er not only as her parent, but also her best friend. Another described how, when she needs advice, she can tell her grandparent everything.

The feeling was mutual in most cases. “One mom noted she felt her son was her best friend and she was his backbone,” Dr. Wilson adds. “This kind of closeness allows youth to express themselves openly.”

Real-life support

Dr. Wilson’s study also found that adult emotional, informational, and instrumental support can be protective. “Youth participants valued adults who listen and show empathy and compassion,” she states. “They feel close

to adults who offer advice and guidance about everything from homework to money management to figuring out educational and job opportunities.”

According to one adult participant, “I think it’s important to be an advocate [for your child]. Like, if you see something wrong going on, [you say] ‘Hey, my friend, you know that that’s not right.’ You gotta speak up.”

The study also revealed that communication difficulties were common between youth and adults.

“It’s good to know that both groups struggled to understand each other sometimes,” says Dr. Wilson. “The important thing is to keep trying and not

assume your teen isn’t listening to what you say or paying attention to how you act.”

In partnership with community-based, youth-serving organizations, including the Neighborhood Resilience Project, Dr. Wilson has also studied how Black youth affected by violence feel about sharing their behaviors, emotions, and locations with researchers via text through a system called GEMA. GEMA stands for Geographic Ecological Momentary Assessment. “With GEMA, we texted youth participants throughout the day. We collected data about where they were, what they were doing, and how they were feeling,” explains Dr. Wilson. After the study, participants reported high satisfaction with GEMA. They appreciated feeling safe, thanks to GEMA’s GPS monitoring system. They liked the support services available as part of the research. “They valued the chance to check in with someone about their feelings,” says Dr. Wilson. “They also liked the idea of being citizen scientists and made good suggestions about improving GEMA.” In the future, Dr. Wilson’s research may expand GEMA to a larger group of youth for a longer period and make it more community oriented. She notes, “Along with supportive adults, GEMA could become another way communities reach out to vulnerable youth and help them build resilience.”

Neighborhood Resilience Project creates stronger communities through collaboration and care

The Neighborhood Resilience Project (NRP) supports community transformations that turn trauma affected neighborhoods into healthy, healing, and vibrant places where residents can thrive. Using a Trauma Informed Community Development (TICD) method, the NRP and its collaborators evaluate and address a community’s health, wellbeing, and resilience. One of those collaborators is the University of Pittsburgh. Recently NRP played a major role in Pitt Pediatric research focused on how to improve mental

health outcomes of youth exposed to violence. NRP’s responsibilities included research survey design, participant recruiting and retention, and communicating research findings. NRP’s Trauma Response Team offers community-based support for witnesses following violent events and has long-standing, engaging connections with youth, including teens who participated in Pitt’s research. Community liaison recruiters completed a Community Partnered Research Ethics (CPERT)

and certification specific to the study. This training helps support academic-community research partnerships. NRP programs include a free Healthcare Center, a

Trauma Response Team, a Backpack Feeding Program, a highly successful COVID-19 Vaccination Collaborative, and others. NRP supports a sustainable national learn-

ing collaborative with Pittsburgh at the center, including a shared vision to raise up — in unconditional love — people who are suffering from trauma helping them to become

empowered healers, community builders, and positive change makers. Learn more about NRP at neighborhoodresilience. org.

CARLOS T. CARTER

DR. TYIA WILSON

HISTORY MONTH

The Black librarian who rewrote the rules of power, gender and passing as White

by Deborah W. Parker University of Virginia

“Just Because I am a Librarian doesn’t mean I have to dress like one.”

With this breezy pronouncement, Belle da Costa Greene handily differentiated herself from most librarians. She stood out for other reasons, too.

In the early 20th century – a time when men held most positions of authority – Greene was a celebrated book agent, a curator and the first director of the Morgan Library. She also earned US$10,000 a year, about $280,000 today, while other librarians were making roughly $400.

She was also a Black woman who passed as White.

Born in 1879, Belle was the daughter of two light-skinned Black Americans, Genevieve Fleet and Richard T. Greener, the first Black man to graduate from Harvard. When the two separated in 1897, Fleet changed the family’s last name to Greene and, along with her five children, crossed the color line. Belle Marion Greener became Belle da Costa Greene – the “da Costa” a subtle claim to her Portuguese ancestry. When banking magnate J.P. Morgan sought a librarian in 1905, his nephew Junius Morgan recommended Greene, who had been one of his

co-workers at the Princeton Library. Henceforth, Greene’s life didn’t just kick into a higher gear. It was supercharged. She became a lively fixture at social gatherings among America’s wealthiest families. Her world encompassed Gilded Age mansions, country retreats, rare book enclaves, auction houses, museums and art galleries. Bold, vivacious and glamorous, the keenly intelligent Greene attracted attention wherever she went. I found myself drawn to the worlds Greene entered and the people she described in her lively

letters to her lover, art scholar Bernard Berenson. In 2024, I published a book, “Becoming Belle Da Costa Greene,” which explores her voice, her self-invention, her love of art and literature, and her path-breaking work as a librarian. Yet I’m often asked whether Greene mentions her passing as White in her writings. She did not. Greene was one of hundreds of thousands of light-skinned Black Americans who passed as White in the Jim Crow era. While speculation about Greene’s background circulated in her lifetime,

nothing was confirmed until historian Jean Strouse revealed the identities of Greene’s parents in her 1999 biography, “Morgan: American Financier.” Until that point, only Greene’s mother and siblings knew the story of their Black heritage.

“Passing” can often raise more questions than answers. But Greene did not largely define herself through one category, such as her racial identity. Instead, she constructed a self through the things she loved.

‘I love this life – don’t you?’

In my view, any con -

sideration of Greene’s attitudes toward her own race must remain an open question. And uncertainty can be acknowledged – even embraced – with judgments suspended.

The Morgan Library & Museum currently has an exhibition on Greene that will run until May 4, 2025 – one that’s already generated debates about Greene and the significance of her passing.

One section of the exhibition, “Questioning the Color Line,” includes novels on passing, paintings such as Archibald J. Motley Jr.’s “The Octoroon Girl,” photographs

of Greene, and clips from Oscar Micheaux’s 1932 film “Veiled Aristocrats” and John M. Stahl’s 1934 film “Imitation of Life,” which portray painful scenes between White-passing characters and their family members.

None of these objects clarifies Greene’s particular relationship to passing. Instead, they place the librarian within melodramatic and conventional representations about passing that stress self-division and angst.

We don’t know – perhaps we will never know – whether Greene had similar moments of selfdoubt.

Yet some critics have concluded as much. In his review of the exhibition for The New Yorker, critic Hilton Als laments what Greene’s passing had cost her. He describes her as a “girl who loved power,” a woman who “became a member of another race – not Black or White but alternately grandiose and self-despising.”

There’s a lot of certainty in such a pronouncement – and scant evidence furnished to support such declarations. New York Times columnist John McWhorter takes issue with Als’s depiction of the librarian’s passing in a Jan. 23, 2025, article.

A 1910 WATERCOLOR PORTRAIT of Belle da Costa Greene by Laura Coombs Hills. The Morgan Library & Museum, New York, gift of the Estate of Belle da Costa Greene.

ONE OF NINE KNOWN PORTRAITS of Belle da Costa Greene that photographer Clarence H. White made in 1911. Harvard University Center for Italian Renaissance Studies

SEE BHM A9

How ‘Uncle Tom’ still impacts racial politics

by Cheryl Thompson

Toronto Metropolitan University

Published nearly 170 years ago, Uncle Tom’s Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe had a profound impact on American slavery. But Uncle Tom is not a relic from the 19th century: this complex figure still has a hold over Black politics. In fact, the Uncle Tom stereotype is quite possibly the most resilient figure in American history. He has survived pandemics, lived through 33 presidents (including President Joe Biden), and remains the most recognizable Black character in history. While most people know that Uncle Tom is the titular character of Uncle Tom’s Cabin, few people know how and why this literary character has transformed since his initial appearance. Why is Uncle Tom still alive in the 21st century?

Stowe’s Uncle Tom

The bestselling novel of the 19th century, and the second bestselling book of that century (after the Bible), Uncle Tom’s Cabin first appeared in the United States in 1851 as a serialized work of fiction published one chapter at a time, in the National Era, a weekly abolition-

ist newspaper edited by Gamaliel Bailey. Today, we do not necessarily think of novels as shaping national identity. However, in 19th-century America, Stowe’s vision of Uncle Tom constructed a form of Black manhood that deeply impacted the nation. Despite being ripped from his wife and children, chained and sent off in a coffle with other enslaved men and women, let down by even a “good master,” and beaten, finally to death, Uncle Tom does not ever speak ill of anyone. He is loyal, passive in the midst of white violence and dies as a martyr. Since then, various Black men have been called “Uncle Toms.” From Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to former president Barack Obama, at some point, they were accused of being too passive or a sell-out to the race.

Legalized rights did not translate to reality

In the 1896 landmark case, Plessy vs. Ferguson, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that African Americans had access to the legal system, equal to that of Whites, but they had to maintain separate institutions to facilitate these rights. The ruling institu-

tionalized a racial hierarchy that placed Whites at the top and Black people at the bottom in nearly every facet of public life.

To live in North America meant that one had to choose not only between racial loyalty and disloyalty, but also between life and death. Survival meant performing servile roles as Uncles and Mammies, in public or on the job.

In this environment, Black people were forced to acquiesce to the White public’s desire to perpetuate the servile relations of slavery. Black men and women who violated these Jim Crow norms risked their homes, jobs and lives. For survival in a racially segregated environment, the Pullman sleeping car porters, for instance, Black men who were employed on the railways of North America, had to perform the role of, and were measured against the image of, a servile Uncle Tom.

In Canada, the only reference for Uncle Tom is at Uncle Tom’s Cabin Historic Site. The former home of Rev. Josiah Henson, who lived from 1789–1883, has been turned into a museum to showcase Henson’s life, as founder of the Dawn Settlement in Dresden, Ont., for fugitive African Americans. Stowe’s novel was loosely based on Henson’s biography, The Life of Josiah Henson, Formerly a Slave, Now an Inhabitant of Canada published in 1849. The museum documents Henson’s life but also reaffirms his connection to Stowe’s Uncle Tom.

The insatiable appetite of the White North American public for a docile, symbolically emasculated Black male archetype and the Uncle Tom controversies that follows them, speaks profoundly to how monumentally resistant to change this character has been.

From servant to sellout

In the decades following the novel, Uncle Tom

transformed into a stereotype of Black masculinity characterized by docility, castrated sexuality, a happy-to-please-Whites attitude with a safe, child-like essence, at the same time. Shirley Temple’s blond ringlets paired with Bill “Bojangles” Robinson’s

commodity spokespersons such as Rastus the Cream of Wheat trademark and Uncle Ben.

The concept of the sellout Uncle Tom, however, is characterized by the idea of a Black man who appears only interested in serving whites, the

soft-shoe routine in their “buddy” films of the 1930s is one example of the cinematic repackaging of Stowe’s Uncle Tom and his child-patron, Little Eva.

The servile Uncle Tom has been reproduced in Joel Chandler Harris’ Uncle Remus tales published in the 1880s, later adapted by Disney for Song of the South. Uncle Tom also became a feature at blackface minstrel shows known as “Tom shows.” Later, he mutated into

government, corporations or “the system” generally.

The insult is meant to connote that these men, these “Uncle Toms” will ensure that white needs come before the needs of both the Black community and themselves.

Men (or the fictionalized characters of men) who have faced accusations of being a sellout Uncle Tom include the film roles of actors like Sidney Poitier and, later, Bill Cosby during the height of

his fame in the ‘70s and ‘80s, as well as Christopher Darden during the O.J. Simpson trial (not to mention O.J. himself), and even athletes like Tiger Woods.

Black people hate him, but it also seems we cannot live without him. The trope is especially brought up when it comes to political figures. Some political careers have been marred by Uncle Tom accusations. This includes people like Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, and more recently Kentucky’s Attorney General Daniel Cameron.

Foils for Black social progress

The challenges that are brought to contemporary Black men in positions of authority, power and prestige who are either in service to white institutions or become the public spokespersons for white companies are very real. The reason these Black men are accused of Uncle Tomism is that communities suspect them of thwarting Black social progress. It is a reliable trope called upon during moments when a Black individual is perceived by the Black community as maligning the race in order to win favor with White authority and institutions.

Beyond politics, we are surrounded with imagery of Black men who serve one purpose: to make the public (imagined as White) feel safe. They are useful only if they are clearly committed to the American way of life, which is to say consumer culture.

From Uncle Remus there to sell White childhood innocence, Uncle Ben to sell rice, and even Michael Jordan’s squeaky-clean image, this image of Black masculinity has had a firm grip on what it means to be a Black man in North American society.

Why can Uncle Tom not just fade from memory, as have so many other characters from other mid-19th-century novels?

Stowe may have created this character to support the abolition of slavery. However, through constant reinvention and reproduction, Uncle Tom will continue to exist if the Black community remains divided on how to live within a capitalist system built on slave labor.

Yet this figure also reminds us to look deeper and to ask difficult questions about how we choose to relate to White society and its institutions. Uncle Tom will persist as long as anti-Blackness persists. This article is adapted from Cheryl Thompson’s forthcoming book, ‘Uncle: Race, Nostalgia and the Politics of Loyalty’ (Coach House Books).

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license.

SOFT-SHOE ROUTINE—Bill “Bojangles” Robinson dancing with Shirley Temple in “The Little Colonel.” (20th Century Fox)

THE BOOK COVER FOR “UNCLE TOM’S CABIN.” (PENGUIN)

The Black librarian who rewrote the rules of power, gender and passing as White

Citing passages from her letters in which Greene excitedly describes reading the Arabic folktales “The Thousand and One Nights” and seeing exhibitions of modern art, McWhorter asks readers to reconsider this “witty, puckish soul who savored books and art” and “had an active social life.”

What if Greene gave her race little thought, McWhorter wonders.

What if she simply saw the notion of race and racial categorization as “a fiction” and instead lived her life to its fullest? Of course, her light skin afforded her the opportunity that other Black people of her era didn’t have. But does that necessarily mean that she was self-loathing or conflicted?

“[W]e are all wearing trousers and I love them,” Greene writes in one letter to Berenson, adding, “The Library grows more wonderful every day and I am terribly happy in my work here … I love this life –don’t you?”

Greene’s vitality captivated Berenson, who once described the librarian as “incredibly and miraculously responsive.”

The connoisseur was not the only contemporary who admired Greene’s effervescence.

In “The Living Present,” an account of the activities of women before and after World War II, Greene’s friend Gertrude Atherton paid tribute to Greene, a “girl so fond of society, so fashionable in dress and appointments” that she could impress any stranger with her “overflowing joie de

vivre.”

Crafting an aura Viewed through a more expansive lens, Greene’s passing can be seen as part of an exercise in self-fashioning and self-invention.

Greene dressed to be noticed – and she was. Meta Harrsen, the librarian Greene hired in 1922, offers a rare eye-witness account. On

the day Greene interviewed Harrsen, “she wore a dress of dark red Italian brocade shot with silver threads, a gold braided girdle, and an emerald necklace.”

Greene understood well the power of clothes to project a distinct identity – a highly crafted one in this case, and one befitting a connoisseur of rare books.

medieval text written by a Spanish monk that Greene was able to buy at a steep discount.

At that, she excelled. She became known for her stunning acquisition coups: her purchase of 16 rare editions of the works of English printer William Caxton at an auction; her procurement of the highly coveted Crusader’s Bible through a private negotiation; and her acquisition of the Spanish Apocalypse Commentary, a

Celebrating excellence in every community.

During Black History Month, we honor leaders who consistently dedicate themselves to uplifting and supporting their communities. Through their tireless efforts, they preserve the legacy of those who came before and pave the way for future generations to thrive.

Join us in celebrating fashion entrepreneur Ngozi Okaro, STEM leader Dr. Calvin Mackie, Jamie Aranda, a resilient Air Force veteran, and astronaut Ed Dwight as part of our Everyday Excellence campaign. Their drive and achievements inspire us all, serving as powerful reminders that success is within reach for those who strive for it.

To me, a 1915 photo captures Greene’s confidence and aura more than any other image of the librarian. She posed in her home and wasn’t shot in soft focus with a studio backdrop as other photographs tend to portray her. Sitting on the arm of a large chair upholstered in a tapestry weave, she wears an elaborate hat with a large ostrich plume, a high-necked blouse under a long, loosely belted jacket with a ruffled cuff over a long dark skirt. The decor is no less striking: Flemish tapestries decorate the walls behind her, and a litur-

gical vestment is draped over the bookcase. Looking directly at the viewer, Greene is assured and poised. Greene’s stylish flair was not simply decorative. It was a testament to her vibrant personality and the joy she took in her work. Rather than judge her according to contemporary notions of racial identity, I prefer to marvel over her achievements and how she became a model for generations of future librarians. Greene didn’t just pass. She surpassed – in spectacular ways. Deborah W. Parker, Professor of Italian, University of Virginia

Find career resources to support your own everyday excellence at aarp.org/work

TIME MAGAZINE PORTRAIT— Greene poses for a Time magazine portrait in 1915. The Morgan Library & Museum

GLOWING PRESS COVERAGE—Greene frequently received glowing press coverage. The Morgan Library & Museum

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Courier would like to feature your photo, any other photos and church information in our Church Directory. Call the Courier’s Allison Palm for 6-month, 12-month and introductory rate information.

“Let all Bitterness, Wrath, Anger, Clamor and

'The Man From Orange' couldn't steal the spotlight away from Kendrick Lamar, Samuel L. Jackson

(This column is dedicated to some of the legendary managing editors that I have served under (Ulish Carter, Lou Ransom, Sonja Toler, Rob Taylor, Ashley Johnson and Sandy Hamm). If anyone was omitted, I am sorry, but I will soon be 72 and I still love and respect every one of you. Reminding the world of these former "Head Coaches" of the New Pittsburgh Courier is truly my Black History moment.) According to the resident NFL prophets, soothsayers and resident know-it-alls, the Kansas City Chiefs versus the Philadelphia Eagles' Super Bowl LIX game was to be nothing more than an exercise in futility for the upstart Eagles. Did someone forget to CC the email to the Eagles? Did Andy Reid, the resident Head Coaching God of the Chiefs, expect Eagles Head Coach Nick Sirianni and Vic Fangio, the Defensive Coordinator of the Eagles, to make a pilgrimage and lie prostrate at the altar in the "temple Reid" shrine in KC? Well if they did, the shrine was locked down and full of the KC faithful and Vic Fangio and the Eagles' "guillotine defense" had other ideas. Fangio was not about to worship, pay homage to the image of Andy Reid that had already been chiseled on the summit of Mt. Saint Goodell. Also, the Eagles backflipped and snatched the "Injun Tomahawk Chop" weapon from the Chiefs that KC was attempting to use to clip the wings of the Eagles. However, the Eagles turned on KC and used that weapon to sacrifice the Chiefs on their

own "altar of arrogance," by the score of 40-22. Many political and social messaging threads were woven into the fabric of the pregame, game, and postgame of Super Bowl LIX. I wanted to remain apolitical. However, by him attending this major public event, I have been

given the artistic license to refer to Donald Trump throughout the remainder of this article as; "the man from orange" or (TMFO). TMFO mistakenly left the door slightly ajar and allowed me to release the "Kraken" of honest journalism onto the mainstream media.

TMFO tried but failed to use Super Bowl LIX as just another photo-op to bolster his archive of misinformation and deceit, and to "shoplift the spotlight," but the Eagles stopped and detained him leaving Caesars Superdome in New Orleans for having stolen merchandise tucked inside of his jacket. Instead of standing on the field with confetti raining down on him celebrating a Chiefs victory, he slunk out of the back door like the skunk that he is, looking over his shoulder as he abandoned the Chiefs like he does all of the other "temporary friends" that he considers as "losers."

This man should have given the Chiefs and their faithful a hefty discount

on a few hundred thousand of his "TMFO Bibles." Personally, I don’t think that Chiefs fans toting "his" Bibles to the game with them would have altered the outcome because the way that the Chiefs played, they needed "divine prevention" as opposed to "divine intervention."

The attendance and support of the man that many of the Kansas City Chiefs coaches, players and a few of their spouses considered to be a "blessing" appears to have morphed into a curse. TMFO supported Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes and his wife wholeheartedly. Anyone who witnessed the endorsement of Patrick Mahomes by TMFO should have taken a look at the "anti-DEI" scorecard of TMFO and immediately expressed concern, while at the same time catch-

ing the nearest Jet to Las Vegas to bet on the Philadelphia Eagles. The world should have learned by now that anything or anyone that TMFO supports is going to end up a loser: because he strips, devalues or bankrupts anything that he touches, including our country. Also, by the way, there were so many "Black jobs" displayed as part of the Kendrick Lamar Super Bowl Halftime Show that it appeared as if the entrance by the crew from Compton may have irreparably damaged the mental faculties of TMFO if he was able to stomach sitting through that "Blacula" performance. TMFO was about to start a war of words but opted to prematurely exit the Caesars Superdome early and at warp speed. When that exit consumed too much time, someone allegedly overheard him

saying, "Elon, Elon, I’m begging you; please beam me up." By the way, How much did it cost taxpayers to use Air Force One, to transport TMFO to the game, along with U.S. Secret Service agents in tow? So much for cost-cutting; where are the agents from DOGE when you need them?

A lifelong coward such as TMFO shouldn’t even be allowed to have an opinion about football. Imagine TMFO performing as a wide receiver running across the middle of an NFL game, with a linebacker and free safety honing in on "target orange," with their fangs dripping with blood. If that had happened there might be a few more Access Hollywood tapes floating around, but they wouldn’t be revealing mindless chatter about TMFO, “grabbing things”

that are a sacred part of a woman’s body. When a friend of mine texted me and said that one of his ex-relatives by marriage refused to finish watching the game after “Uncle ‘Sambo' L. Jackson” (actor Samuel L. Jackson) delivered a politically aware monologue alongside Kendrick Lamar... After that groundbreaking and inspiring performance, I cried a bucket full of tears of joy. That may probably be one of the few times during the next few years that many of us will not be crying tears of sorrow. I’ll bet my grandson Maurice’s last McDonald’s gift card that if a rapper is the featured act of the next Super Bowl, it will be Vanilla Ice or his equivalent.

It's 'the dog' in Philly that won the game! Eagles over Chiefs, 40-22, in Super Bowl LIX

:10— As I’ve been known to do on occasion, allow me to start at the end and work my way back to the beginning. In doing so, let’s have a long overdue but quick conversation about Kenny Pickett for “you few” haters who are still hanging on to it no matter how much it hurts. #1. It’s not his fault he was drafted by Mike Tomlin and the Steelers in the first round. They called, he answered...and you would have, too! #2. You do realize we’re not talking about chopped liver here? Just check your underused Google app and you will see he is either one step ahead or one step behind the great Dan Marino in most every major category at Pitt. #3. Before you continue to spread the false truth about Pickett being a quitter, ask yourself...who quit on who first? What was he told and promised by the Steelers? Don’t forget there are always three sides to a story, his side... their side... and the truth. Lastly, you’re dog-gone right he went out there! He’s part of the team, did his time and paid his dues... NOW ALL HE HAS TO DO IS “SHOW THEM THE RING!!!” :09— Alright, alright, back to the game. I will tell you the truth. I am anti-Chiefs only because I don’t want them any closer to the Steeler dynasty stuff. Other than that, I am cool with Holmes, Kelce, Taylor and for that matter Mother Kelce as well. But I am sure glad they

got taken out back to the shed and spanked!

:08— That being said, we/you/and I had to know going in that Philly would and should win. Man, they had it all. The QB, the O-Line, the D-Line, the best defensive backfield in football, and of course, they had the great Saquon Barkley.

:07— With that being said, you were still afraid of the Big Bad Boogie Man. Well, dingdong the wicked witch, the boogie man...Freddie and, to the best of

my knowledge, Jason... are all dead (I’m going to hold out on Jason. You know that boy is something else when it comes to being dead. I am just saying!)

:06— I know, I know, so finally back to the lead. “The Philly Dog.” The old school slang for Bad, Bad Leroy Brown and “Debo” (aka Tommy Lister of “Friday” fame) “you got knocked the !!! out.” (BTW, rest in peace Tommy Lister.) (Amazing what you learn here, huh nephew?) ANYWAY, that expression is about the dog that rises above all others to wreak havoc on any and everything in the way. It’s the dog in you! Well, that D-Line let the dogs out and they bit hard and

often and Mahomes will have the teeth marks to show it. Jalen Carter, Zack Baun, Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean, AKA...THE NEW PHILLY DOGS!

:05— Of course, of course Jalen Hurts got the proverbial monkey off his back and has now moved closer to wearing a gold jacket when he retires from the game.

:04— I would overhype the Eagles receiving group, but I don’t know if they did much to deserve it. Given that there was never anyone around them playing defense...wait, say what now? I am just saying they were wide open all night. Oh, I get it...my bad... that’s what makes them great! A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, Jahan Dotson and crew, job well done.

:03— The only thing left on the table was Barkley not getting in the end zone. But, Lord knows he’s done enough. And yes, by the way, he should have been the NFL MVP. OK, Josh Allen, you deserve to be in the conversation and your lady is super hot, but did you run over 2,000 yards and jump over a man backwards... I didn’t think so. C’mon man!

:02— To the victor go the spoils. So, congratulations you Philadelphia Eagles. But let’s not get any of this twisted. I applauded your superior effort and you did me and a ton of Steeler fans a solid...but trust me the next morning, I went right back to hating the Eagles. (Mic Drop!!!)

:01— Now that this one is tucked away, let’s get ready for March Madness college basketball. Which in turn gets me started on the next movement to be had in the City of Champions. HOW IS IT THAT ONE OF THE GREATEST CHAMPIONS WESTERN PA HAS EVER PRODUCED DOESN’T HAVE HIS SHIRT RETIRED!!! Stay tuned,

my people, as I launch the words to be heard into the universe...when will Duquesne University retire the jersey for the Great Baron “BB” Flenory??...my words not his! Stay tuned to your Pittsburgh Courier for more.

:00— Special Note: My apologies to photographer extraordinaire, Barrett Schley, for not giving him recognition

for all the photos that appeared in last week’s Courier for the Pittsburgh City League Hall of Fame. GAME OVER.

SAMUEL L. JACKSON IN KENDRICK LAMAR'S SUPER BOWL HALFTIME PERFORMANCE

by ReShonda Tate

Houston Defender

I have to confess. I’m not the best when it comes to money. I’ve had ostrich syndrome most of my life. That’s basically where you keep your head buried in the sand because your finances make you physically ill. I know that sounds crazy, but it’s a real thing. People with ostrich syndrome avoid information that could help them make better decisions or improve their situation. This avoidance can lead to negative consequences, such as financial losses or missed opportunities. If I don’t check my bank account, I don’t have to face how dire things are. The problem with that thinking is it didn’t change the reality. It just delayed me facing it. And by the time I finally faced it, it was five times worse. Thank God for growth.

Over time, I realized that you can’t succeed at what you don’t measure. My bank account was never going to ‘heal thyself.’ I had to take my financial house off self-drive mode, and navigate that bad boy myself.  And it’s not just personally that Black women need to face their finances. In a world where Black women are the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs, our financial realities tell a different, more

sobering story. Despite our strides in education and leadership, we continue to face significant financial disparities that threaten our economic well-being and long-term stability. It’s time to confront this reality head-on and take actionable steps to secure our financial future.

The racial wealth gap further compounds the issue. A 2021 report by Goldman Sachs revealed that the median single Black woman has a net worth of just $200, compared to $15,640 for single White women. Let me say that again: $200 vs $15,640. This stark dis-

When Black women—the backbone of our families and communities—struggle financially, the ripple effects are profound. Wealth inequities limit our ability to invest in education, purchase homes, and pass down wealth to the next generation.

The Financial Landscape for Black Women

Black women make up nearly 14 percent of the U.S. female population, yet our economic struggles are disproportionately stark. According to a 2022 report from the National Women’s Law Center, Black women earn just 67 cents for every dollar earned by White, non-Hispanic men. This wage gap contributes to a median annual income of $41,098—well below the national median of $58,260 for all women.

parity reflects systemic barriers such as discrimination in hiring, limited access to generational wealth, and disproportionate student debt burdens. In fact, Black women carry the highest student loan debt of any demographic, averaging $37,558 according to the American Association of University Women. Our financial challenges aren’t just individual problems; they’re community issues. When Black women—the backbone of our families and communities—struggle financially, the ripple effects are pro-

found. Wealth inequities limit our ability to invest in education, purchase homes, and pass down wealth to the next generation. This cycle perpetuates economic vulnerability, leaving our communities at a disadvantage.

Steps to Financial Empowerment

It’s time to take control of our financial destinies. Here are five steps according to financial analysts I’ve interviewed that every Black woman can take to start building a more secure financial future:

1. Prioritize financial literacy: Knowledge is power. Seek out workshops, online resources, and books on budgeting, investing, and wealth-building. Organizations like the National Urban League and Black Women’s Wealth Alliance offer resources tailored to our community. Just like you talk to your girls about the latest reality show, have financial conversations.

2. Tackle debt strategically: High-interest debt is a significant barrier to financial growth. Focus on paying down credit cards and student loans using strategies like the snowball or avalanche method. Explore refinancing options to reduce interest rates. Make a list of your debt, including the interest rate. Then tackle the highest first.

In personal finance, just like in life, things are always changing. One day, you’re cruising through the airport lounge sipping complimentary cocktails, and the next, you’re locked out because Delta changed the rules. One day, your car is running fine, and the next, it’s on a recall list.

That’s why staying ahead of the game matters. This week in personal finance news, we’ve got major shifts happening that could affect your wallet, your travel perks, your retirement, and even your kids who keep boomeranging back home.

Let’s break it all down:

Delta’s Sky Club Access Just Got Harder—Check Your Perks

If you’ve been using your American Express card to get into Delta’s Sky Club lounges, I’ve got some bad news. Delta has decided that too many people have been getting in, making it feel like a crowded bus stop instead of a luxury lounge. So, they’ve made changes to tighten access. Translation? Your Platinum or Reserve AmEx card might not get you through those lofty doors as easily as before. Delta wants to make these lounges “exclusive” again, which is corporate-speak for “less crowded for the big spenders.”

What This Means for You:

If you travel often, check Delta’s new

lounge rules. Don’t wait until you’re at the airport looking crazy when they turn you away. Consider alternative lounge memberships. If Delta isn’t vibing with you anymore, check out Priority Pass or AmEx’s Centurion Lounges. Use your credit card only when absolutely necessary. Even then, take precaution. Never use credit cards squarely for the promotional perks. If you got that AmEx specifically for lounge access and now you’re not getting in, it might be time to re-evaluate if that annual fee is worth it.

Financial Lessons from the Super Bowl The Philadelphia Eagles just ran through the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX, securing a 40-22 victory. The Eagles came in prepared, made smart adjustments when necessary, and executed a flawless game plan. Sound familiar? It should—because that’s exactly how you win at personal finance. How to Apply This to Your Money:

Have a game plan. Whether it’s retirement, getting out of debt, or stacking up an emergency fund, don’t wing it. Have a strategy. Be adaptable. If something isn’t working, change the play. Market conditions change, interest rates rise—adjust accordingly. Stay focused on the goal. The Eagles didn’t let one bad drive rattle them, and neither should you. Long-term wealth building takes patience.

Social Security Ain’t a Sure Bet— Stack Your Own Coins

People love to act like Social Security is some golden parachute waiting to catch them in retirement. Let me be blunt—it’s looking more like a tattered safety net full of holes.

With concerns that benefits might be reduced in the future, depending solely on Social Security is like betting your entire Super Bowl ticket money on one roulette spin. Bad move. How to Make Sure You’re Good Regardless: Boost your personal savings. Aim for

15-20 percent of your income in a retirement account. If you’re starting late, make up for lost time. Delay claiming benefits. The longer you wait (up to age 70), the bigger your check. Don’t grab it at 62 just because you can. Diversify your retirement income. Invest in stocks, real estate, a business— whatever it takes to have multiple streams. The government might fumble the Social Security bag, but that doesn’t mean your retirement has to be a mess. Toyota’s Big Recall—Check Your Ride Before It Checks You Toyota just issued a recall on over 140,000 vehicles, including popular models like the Tacoma, Camry, and Lexus RX. If you own one of these, don’t play games—check if your ride is affected. Ignoring recalls is like ignoring a weird noise in your engine and hoping it just “goes away.” It won’t. What to Do: Go to Toyota’s recall site and check your VIN. If your car is recalled, get it fixed ASAP—for free.

Stay on top of recalls in the future. Sign up for notifications from the NHTSA so you’re never caught slipping.

A REPORT SHOWS THE MEDIAN SINGLE BLACK WOMAN HAS A NET WORTH OF JUST $200, COMPARED TO $15,640 FOR SINGLE WHITE WOMEN. CREDIT: TIMA MIROSHNICHENKO/PEXELS

by Bria Overs Word In Black

Personal finance is all about “managing your money as well as saving and investing,” as Investopedia puts it. And it’s true. Your individual goals and values guide the way you handle money.

By that definition, personal finance is exactly that—incredibly personal.

Money can evoke a wide range of emotions, from positive feelings like joy, happiness, and confidence to more negative ones such as fear, guilt, and shame, among others.

To address the negative emotions, financial therapy has emerged as a form of intervention. This approach combines traditional therapy and counseling techniques and explores the psychological and emotional aspects that come with handling personal finance.

“It’s very similar, but it is all going to be under the guise of finances and money,” Aja Evans, a New York City-based clinically trained and licensed mental health counselor, and forthcoming author, says. Evans works “solely under the guise of how money is interacting in people’s lives” and what behavioral health problems that brings up for them.

A lot of times we look at it as how our finances are impacting mental health, but usually it’s how mental health impacts our finances. Everything you may have seen, heard, felt, or understood around money growing up is going to add to your ‘money story’ and how you look, behave, and think about money in the future.

How Financial Therapy Works Evans recommends seeing a financial therapist before a mental health crisis if possible, but help can be found even in

Worrying about money? Financial therapy can help

heightened states of anxiety, panic, or frustration.

Early signs of a crisis or needing help include feeling stuck in a cycle of overspending or feeling imposter syndrome because of changes in income. Or it could be strong feelings of guilt after a reasonable purchase, and more.

The first step in financial therapy is finding a professional that can provide the service. A comprehensive directory of financial therapists can be accessed on the Financial Therapy Association website.

Aja Evans works with first-generation wealth builders

The directory is sortable and can help anyone find a financial therapist based on issues and needs, language, religious or spiritual beliefs, sexuality, and racial identities. There are several other sortable factors, such as fee structure, gender, and location.

“You can look at financial therapy almost as a spectrum,” Evans says. There are therapists “coming from the mental health side and are clinically trained, but there are people who are certified or have done other training and certifications coming from the financial professional side.”

Therapists are available in person or virtually, and many offer 15- to 30-minute consultations. As far as affording financial therapy, according to Laqueshia Clemons, health insurance can be used when the “client has a clinical diagnosis” related to their feelings about money.

Clemons is a Connecticut-based licensed clinical social worker and accredited financial counselor. She’s also behind “Its More Than Just a Budget: A Guided Financial Wellness Journal.”

For example, she says, if a client can’t sleep at

night because of stress related to money, “then, on the treatment plan, we work on the anxiety around money.” She adds that it depends on the individual therapist to set a rate or sliding scale if insurance cannot be used.

“Just reaching out to a financial therapist to talk to them about what you think is going on is definitely a good start,” Clemons says. Who Financial Therapy Is Good For The clients Evans usually works with are first-generation wealth builders who are trying to navigate what it means to make more money than their parents.

“New York City is filled with a lot of people who are high-achieving and really pushing themselves in potentially very stressful jobs,” she says.

These types of clients are usually wanting to grow their generational wealth while trying to survive and live a life that feels good despite the high cost of living. To top it off, they’re also trying to take care of their parents and other family members.

Those who spend a lot of time on social media could also use a financial therapist because platforms like TikTok and Instagram shape people’s beliefs about money. Social media is a highlight reel that’s easy to believe, Evans says. If a friend goes on vacation, what we don’t see is the stress or debt they put themselves in to make that trip happen. Clemons also works with couples, who may have different needs because of the role money plays in relationship dynamics.

LaQueshia Clemons works with individuals and couples “With couples, it’s usually trying to bring them together about what they have going on with their finances or what they’ve

gone through emotionally around money that they never really worked through,” she says.

For example, a relationship can have a lack of transparency with money because of their earning dynamics, or they don’t talk about money at all.

“The couple work can be really interesting, but also very challenging because you’re dealing with two different people who

have different ideals and perspectives on things,” Clemons explains. “But for a lot of people, it’s definitely really necessary.”

Seeking the guidance of a financial therapist can help people develop a more nuanced understanding of their finances and make better-informed decisions in their personal and professional lives.

“I think we decide that our character traits are

related to how we deal with money and that’s just not true,” Evans says. “We’re valuable people whether we have debt, no debt, student loans, credit cards, financial mistakes —you can still have value as a person you’re still worthy.”

Sisters: It’s time to get our financial house in order

3. Invest in your future: Start small but start now. Whether it’s a 401(k), IRA, or brokerage account, investing is crucial for building wealth. Remember, time in the market beats timing the market. 4. Build an emergency fund: Life is unpredictable. Aim to save three to six months’ worth of expenses in a highyield savings account to cushion against unexpected financial shocks.

5. Advocate for pay equity: Don’t be afraid to negotiate your salary and ad-

Got Extra Cash? Should You Pay Off Debt or Invest?

Let’s say you come into some extra money—a bonus, tax refund, or even a side hustle paying

vocate for equitable pay. Resources like Black Career Women’s Network can provide guidance and support.

Collective Action Is Key While individual efforts are vital, collective action is equally important. Supporting Black-owned banks and financial institutions can help circulate wealth within our communities. Mentorship and networking groups can provide guidance and opportunities for financial growth. Also, pushing for systemic changes— such as student loan forgiveness and pay equity legislation—can address the

structural barriers we face. A Call to Action

Like a lot of Black families, but my mother didn’t teach me alot about savings growing up. She was too busy struggling to make ends meet herself. I found myself repeating that cycle with my own children…until I knew better. Then I started doing better. We have to break the generational cycles surrounding money. Our parents did the best they could. It’s up to us to now do better.

Black women have always been the architects of resilience and innovation.

Now, we must channel that same energy into our financial empowerment. Let’s commit to breaking the cycles of economic inequality and building a legacy of wealth for ourselves and future generations. The journey may be challenging, but together, we can rise above the obstacles and thrive. The time is now. Let’s get our financial house in order.

(This post was originally published on Defender Network)

paying on a mortgage. Split the difference. If you’re torn, put half toward debt and half toward investing. That way, you’re making progress on both fronts. Boomerang Kids—Setting Financial Boundaries When Grown Folks Move Back Home It’s happening more than ever—adult children moving back in with their parents. High rent prices, student loans, and economic uncertainty are sending them back to their childhood

Helping is fine. Being a human

Not fine. How to Handle It: Charge them

The Smarter

NEGATIVE MONEY-RELATED EMOTIONS are common. A combination of counseling and emotional exploration through financial therapy can bring relief. Credit: Photo by Alex Green

| Pexels

Guest Editorial

Without evidence or shame, Trump blames diversity for fatal plane crash

Without evidence or shame, President Donald Trump speculated that Democrats and diversity initiatives could be to blame for the deaths of 67 people in the plane collision in Washington Jan. 29.

As Trump spoke, first responders were still working to recover bodies from the wreckage of the commercial jet and army helicopter from the Potomac River.

As the nation reeled from the deadliest American aviation disaster in more than two decades, Trump baselessly blamed diversity initiatives for undermining air safety.

Sixty-seven people died the evening of Jan. 29 when a passenger plane and a military helicopter collided in midair.

Instead of offering comfort and assurances to the nation, Trump spent most of his press conference in the immediate aftermath of the tragedy engaging in reckless accusations.

Trump said President Joe Biden’s administration encouraged the Federal Aviation Administration to recruit workers “who suffer severe intellectual disabilities, psychiatric problems and other mental and physical conditions under a diversity and inclusion hiring initiative.” He added that the program allowed for the hiring of people with hearing and vision issues as well as paralysis, epilepsy and “dwarfism.”

Trump did not provide any evidence that unqualified people were being put in critical positions like air traffic control.

When asked why he was blaming diversity initiatives, Trump said, “because I have common sense, and unfortunately a lot of people don’t.”

Trump complained specifically about Pete Buttigieg, who was Biden’s transportation secretary, calling him “a disaster.”

“He’s run it right into the ground with his diversity,” Trump said.

Buttigieg responded in a post on X, calling Trump’s comments “despicable.”

“As families grieve, Trump should be leading, not lying,” he added.

Vice President JD Vance, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed Trump’s concerns about diversity programs and hiring.

“When you don’t have the best standards in who you’re hiring, it means on the one hand, you’re not getting the best people in government,” Vance said, “But on the other hand, it puts stresses on the people who are already there.”

Since taking office, Trump has issued a series of executive orders aimed at dismantling Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) programs across the federal government and the private sector.

DEI programs seek to ensure fairer representation for groups seen as historically marginalized such as African Americans, women, LGBTQ+ community members, and disabled people.

There is no evidence that diversity initiatives had anything to do with last week’s plane crash.

However, federal officials have been raising concerns about an overtaxed and understaffed air traffic control system. Two of Reagan National Airport air traffic controllers were doing double duty the night of the collision.

The plane crash was the first major disaster of Trump’s new term, and his response evoked his briefings on the COVID-19 pandemic. At those briefings, Trump often made wild inaccurate assertions.

His response to the plane crash shows a president who is quick to assign blame and willing to say anything to promote his political agenda.

The news media and elected officials have to stop being afraid of Trump and strongly condemn him when he makes reckless and racists remarks or attempts to go beyond his presidential authority.

(Reprinted from the Philadelphia Tribune)

Rod Doss Editor & Publisher

the Publisher

You don’t leave the game until it’s

(TriceEdneyWire.com)—I was blessed to attend Grambling University as my first of several colleges and universities after high school.  The master of college football was there at that time.  I don’t have to tell most of you that I am talking about the great Coach Eddie Robinson.  I remember a lot about what he said or did, but one of my favorite statements from him is “You don’t leave the game until it’s over.”  Well, too many of our people are afraid the game headed up by Donald Trump is over for us.  Rob would tell you to stay in the game and be ready to play because this game of Trump vs The People is not over!

Two weeks into this Trump and his Side Kick Elon Musk pitiful show of retribution is in high gear!  We can’t say he didn’t tell us what he was going to do. Some of it was so outlandish that many couldn’t believe he would do it. It’s probably one of the things those who voted for him said, “He was just kidding! That was just campaign talk!” Well, for once in his life, he was telling the truth! Unfortunately, too many people didn’t believe him!

The game, if you call it that, has just begun, and Coach Rob would tell us to get in the game and stay.  Fannie Lou Hamer would warn us “to be no ways tired!” With all the damage that has already been done to

Commentary

our democracy, cleaning up this garbage is going to take all of us to stay in the game and play our role as though our lives depend on it—because life as we have known it “ain’t happening no more!”

These lunatics have told even those who voted for Trump (White women) you have no rights.  They knew better since Hon. Kamala Harris supports women’s rights strongly. Trump definitely does not. Certain immigrants knew better—including Melania—who doesn’t seem to be interested in being seen by her husband’s side.

Did you see that hat she wore for the Inauguration that blocked her husband’s view of her and hers of him? Others, who according to statistics, voted for him were too many Hispanics—and look at how he’s showing his appreciation to them. Certain of those civil servants who’ve either been fired or laid off never believed they were on his retribution list—especially the FBI, CIA and Prosecutors.  Black Teamsters knew what Trump would do and voted in their best interest, but certain

non-Black Teamsters ignored the message and stayed with the orange man to the end—only to find that the person they supported is working to end union rights.  Rep. Byron Donalds and Sen. Tim Scott weren’t even considered for Trump’s Cabinet or were they asked and just said NO?

Candace Owens—the Voice of Black Republicans, Kodak Black, Antonio Brown, Mike Tyson, Lord Jamar, Le’Veon Bell, 1 in 4 Black men under 50 are said to have supported Trump and what a pity because he didn’t consider even one of them to help him destroy our democracy! I’m willing to say some of those who voiced support for Trump didn’t actually vote for anybody, and I doubt they’ll be left off his retribution list. I didn’t list Dr. Ben Carson in either category because he was misled a long time ago about who was for the people and who was against people who look like him, so we never counted on him or Kanye West or Hershel Walker and a few others to do the right thing.

It’s time to do what Alicia Keys advised the rest of us to do:

“Rise Up!” This is not a time to sit back waiting for somebody else to fight for your rights while you leave the game!

(Dr. E. Faye Williams, President of the Dick Gregory Society.)

Celebrating Black History Month

This year, perhaps more than ever, we need to be especially mindful of Black History. This time of banning books from local libraries, especially those that tell of the history and struggle of Black Americans against slavery and racism, pose a threat to both our presence and our future. It has often been said that if you don’t know where you come from, you will have no idea of where you are going. Well, African Americans in particular must remember that we are here today because of strong ancestors who did not allow the circumstances under which they lived, to stuff out their dreams of a future for themselves and their descendants.

We must remind ourselves that we are not to be defined by others; that we are not disadvantaged, or handicapped; that we are born with a right to equality and that we have always demanded equity even though others have tried to deny it to us. We are “We The People”. We must not allow the chains that have been removed from our

John E. Warren

Commentary

bodies to be placed on our minds. We have the ability to remove ourselves from poverty by using the tools in our hands. We must remember that we now possess everything that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke of when in his 1957 speech he said “give us the ballot and we will place the right people in office to in essence, further our cause.” Today, so many of us have not because we will not use that which we do have. We have freedom of movement, of thought and how we use our minds. Yet, so many choose to squander these freedoms on how others tell us we should think and dress and what we should be with the few dollars that so many of us waste on things that are not necessary.

We have freedom of worship, yet so many of us don’t bother to pray until we find ourselves in crisis.

In addition to Black History, Carter G. Woodson, left us a most valuable book, “The Miseducation of the Negro”. It’s time to honor his gift of Black History with our own personal contributions to the times in which we live and those we share this life experience with. Only when we engage in this level of thought and activity while making Black history a daily experience, can we truly honor what we have been given beyond the month of February each year. Where do you stand and what are you doing with what you have been given? Let’s move beyond complaints and expectations by others to what each of us can do right where we stand. Let’s get back to defining ourselves and not allowing others to do it for us.

(Dr. John E. Warren, Publisher, San Diego Voice & Viewpoint Newspaper)

Black History Month challenged the ‘Lost Cause’ lie about slavery and discrimination. Eliminating its celebration will allow lies to flourish.

(TriceEdneyWire.com)— “Let’s call this what it really is: resegregation … Any official, including the president, who chooses to blame everything from plane crashes to wildfires on nonWhite, non-male people should be asked whether they believe that desegregation is to blame. Whether they believe resegregation is the answer. We need to bring back the language that describes what is actually happening.”

Karen Attiah

Whenever an anti-diversity extremist uses the word “woke” in a disparaging way, we must remember that the extremists themselves define “woke” as “the belief there are systemic injustices in American society and the need to address them.”

Anti-diversity activists don’t want to address systemic injustices that mainly benefit White men. They’d rather distort history to promote a mass delusion that those injustices never existed. That’s why Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who built a national reputation by attacking diversity in the armed forces, has to ban recognition of Black History Month.

The racial justice uprising sparked by the murder of George Floyd nearly five years ago instilled a panic in the defenders of racial inequity, who launched a campaign in what they called “critical race theory” and now call “DEI.” At least 870 measures have been introduced at the federal, state, and local level to stifle even the acknowledgement of institutional and systemic racism and discrimination.  Even the mea -

Marc H. Morial

To Be Equal

sures that don’t pass are part of a broad effort to salt the earth against addressing systemic injustices. Since the Supreme Court struck down affirmative action in college admissions two years ago, Black enrollment at top universities has fallen by 17 percent.  Venture capital funding to Black-owned enterprises fell by 86 percent from 2021 to 2023.  About one in eight companies say they will eliminate or scale back their diversity, equity, and inclusion policies in 2025. Black History Month grew out of “Douglass Day,” the February 14th birthday celebration of the formerly-enslaved abolitionist Frederick Douglass. In 1926, Black historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson built on that celebration, incorporating the birthday of “The Great Emancipator” Abraham Lincoln into Negro History Week.  Woodson’s scholarship challenged the then-dominant “Lost Cause” myth that sought to erase the horrors of slavery and justify legal segregation. According to Lost Cause mythology, Black Americans had been content in their enslavement and were overwhelmed by the responsibilities of freedom. Through this lens, abolition and reconstruction had thrown the natural order into chaos, and Jim Crow segregation was a nec -

essary correction.

Rather than promote the lie that Black Americans are content to live under a system of oppression, the modern Lost Cause movement promotes the lie that the system of oppression doesn’t exist.  It promotes the lie that discriminatory practices aren’t to blame for race and gender gaps in wealth, income, and civic life.  It’s simply that white men are more competent.  Darren Beattie, appointed this week to be acting undersecretary of state for public diplomacy and public affairs, posted recently on social media, “Competent White men must be in charge if you want things to work.”  Beattie was fired from a position in the previous Trump Administration after CNN reported his connection to well-known White nationalists.

President Trump pointedly excised any mention of “prejudice and hardship” Black Americans face from his Black History Month proclamation.

The outrageous notion that anyone in a position of authority or responsibility who’s not a White man is so ingrained in the current administration that President Trump baselessly blamed diversity, equity, and inclusion policies for the deadly January 29 aviation accident at Reagan National Airport.

In an era when the Secretary of Defense brazenly sports a tattoo of a White nationalist symbol, celebrating Black History Month resegregation is not just a right, but a responsibility. It’s not just about honoring the past but about determining the future.

The

The climate crisis is costing all of us a lot of money in our everyday lives. Higher utility bills. Higher healthcare costs. Housing prices skyrocketing in some areas and home property values nosediving in others. Climate change— as well as the pollution that causes it and the natural disasters caused by it—is exacting a steeper and steeper financial toll on American households.

Amidst our evolving climate realities, many Americans are feeling the financial pinch of the climate crisis in insurance costs. Amy Bach, the Executive Director of United Policyholders, a nonprofit founded to help insurance consumers, calls it “the price tag of climate change.”   Bach told CBS News Chicago, “It is not just the price tag, but it is also the pain of people and their homes flooding that didn’t used to flood. [The insurance companies] are saying, ‘okay, how are we going to maintain the same level of profitability in the face of climate change?’ And how they are doing that is raising prices and cutting coverage—you know, shrinking the number of homes that they will insure in areas that they would deem vulnerable.”

In Illinois, roughly 250,000 customers insured by Allstate will pay at least 14 percent more in homeowners insurance starting this month due to the impacts of increasing severe weather. This comes after Allstate raised rates by 12 percent last year.    And in California, the largest private insurer State Farm has asked the state’s Department of Insurance to approve an average rate increase of 22 percent because of the devastation of the Los Angeles County wildfires. The request stated that as of February 1, the company had received more than 8,700 claims and already paid over $1 billion to customers. And State Farm predicted it would pay out significantly more and the fires would “collectively be the costliest in the history of the company.”

Ben Jealous Commentary

As some companies look to rate hikes, many insurers’ answer has been to stop writing insurance altogether in areas they now see as carrying too much risk.

The recent wildfires in Southern California have further made clear the threat of insurance systems being upended by climate change. Home insurance not only provides protection against disasters, it is usually an essential requirement for getting a mortgage. So when insurers run for the hills—or away from the hills, in some cases—it helps deprive the next generation of would-be homeowners of that core piece of the American Dream. And it causes plenty of pain for existing homeowners as well.

Craig Kushen lives in Coto de Caza, California, on the edge of the fire prone Cleveland National Forest. He has been in the thick of his state’s insurance crisis for years—well before the most recent fires that ravaged Greater Los Angeles. His home insurer, Chubb, dropped his coverage about six years ago. Even back then, insurance companies were well aware the climate crisis was making certain areas increasingly vulnerable to natural disasters.

“My insurance through Chubb was roughly $4,000 when I was dropped. I was luckier than most in that I had really great insurance agents working to find me a new plan. But the policies they were showing me after I lost my Chubb policy were in excess of $20,000—five times the amount. So I got the only insurance I could find at the time that was even somewhat reasonable, and that was the CalFAIR Plan.”

The California Fair Access to Insurance Requirements (FAIR) Plan was started 50 years ago to provide more options for Californians and protect consumers. According to the California Department of Insurance website, the FAIR Plan is available to those “who cannot obtain insurance through a regular insurance company.”

That means, as Craig Kushen points out, that insurance companies and brokers throughout many parts of California are now routinely telling consumers their “only” option is the FAIR Plan.

But a safety net program like California’s FAIR Plan hardly solves the worsening insurance crisis. Maximum payouts under FAIR, originally capped at $1 million, are currently capped at $3 million. That is a lot in most places, but California is a state famous for high home prices—home prices which are already a central reason for the state’s housing crisis. There are 33 cities in the San Francisco Bay area alone with median home prices above $2 million.  And FAIR is not a public plan. It is technically a private association controlled and operated by insurance companies. And as costs go up for FAIR to offer coverage and pay out claims, additional costs are incurred by the participating companies. And those costs get passed on to consumers in the form of rate hikes. State Farm’s request for an emergency rate increase cited “tremendous strain” from the company’s “participation in FAIR Plan losses.”

The climate-driven insurance crisis is bound to get worse as long as the root cause of increasing extreme weather and disasters persists. From super-charged hurricanes and heavy “Lake Effect” snows caused warmer waters to unprecedented wildfires brought on by extreme drought, the only real remedy is to quit our use of fossil fuels and transition to 100 percent clean energy once and for all.  (Ben Jealous is the Executive Director of the Sierra Club and a Professor of Practice at the University of Pennsylvania.)

Trump revoked LBJ’s Equal Employment Opportunity Act?

As soon as President Donald Trump returned to the White House, he issued a host of executive orders to dismantle the federal government’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives. Trump’s actions shouldn’t have surprised anyone, since he pledged to eliminate DEI programs during his presidential campaign, but so much misinformation circulated on social media that PolitiFact, a fact-checking website, had to make corrections.

Several social media posts warned that Donald Trump revoked Lyndon B. Johnson’s Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1965, which prohibited discrimination in hiring based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

However, the fact-checker pointed out that there was no Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1965, and even if there was, an “act” refers to legislation passed by Congress, which cannot be overturned by a president’s executive order.

A president, on the other hand, can rescind an executive order issued by another president.

When Trump issued his executive order titled Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity, he eliminated LBJ’s executive order 11246, which required federal contractors to “take affirmative action” to increase minority and women participation in the workforce.

Some Trump supporters who supported removing DEI initiatives questioned whether revoking LBJ’s executive order

J. Pharoah Doss Check

It Out

11246 went too far. Was Trump throwing away the good with the bad?

To answer that question, we must first examine the philosophy underlying LBJ’s 1965 executive order 11246, which was issued after the Civil Rights Act of 1964 had already prohibited employment discrimination.

LBJ claimed that African Americans were still “buried under a blanket of history and circumstance.” In other words, there was a negative legacy of slavery and racial segregation that put African Americans at the bottom of American society, and simply adopting the Civil Rights Act of 1964 will neither repair the damage nor curtail current prejudice and bigotry directed at African Americans. “It is not a lasting solution to lift just one corner of the blanket,” LBJ said. “We must stand on all sides, and we must raise the entire cover if we are to liberate our fellow citizens.”

LBJ’s historical assessment was undeniably accurate, but who was the “we” responsible for the liberation of African

Americans?

LBJ believed the answer was White liberals in the Democratic Party through public policy. At a Howard University commencement, LBJ stated that equal opportunity was essential, but it was not enough. LBJ told the Black students he sought not just equality as a right but equality as a result.

LBJ’s executive order 11246 implemented “equality as a result.” In the US Supreme Court’s first affirmative action case, Justice Harry A. Blackmun went even further, explaining, “In order to get beyond racism, we must first take account of race. There is no other way. And in order to treat some persons equally, we must treat them differently.”

LBJ and Blackmun’s approach contradicted the philosophy of the Civil Rights Movement, whose fundamental objective was enshrined in the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which ensured employees and applicants were treated without regard to their race, sex, creed, color, or national origin.

Trump is routinely ridiculed for lacking a political philosophy, but he revoked LBJ executive order 11246 because the Trump administration is philosophically opposed to “equality as a result.” Trump’s executive order, titled Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity, is an attempt to revert back to the fundamental objectives of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

(TriceEdneyWire.com)— “I don’t know who you are and I don’t know why you like this guy (Trump). I think what you like about him; he appears to be strong and the rest of us are weak… That’s what he’s selling…Here’s what you’re buying… He’s a race-baiting, xenophobic religious bigot. He doesn’t represent my party. He doesn’t represent the values that the men and women who wear the uniform are fighting for... He’s the ISIL man of the year.” Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) on CNN 2015

There are periods in history… epochs, distinctive periods in time marked by notable events, that in many instances signal change. Columbus stumbling upon the Americas where Indigenous peoples had been living for thousands of years. The French Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, the invention of the semiconductor, WWII, the Civil Rights era, etc.

In many instances, one may not realize that they’re living in the historic moment. It’s only upon reflection that you realize the significance of the time. There are other periods, I call them Oppenheimer moments, where you know that you are in the moment. The first atomic bomb was tested on July 16, 1945. The bomb, nicknamed “Gadget”, released 18.6 kilotons of power. We are told that Dr. J. Robert Oppenheimer, upon watching the first ever atomic bomb explode, quoted a line from Hindu scripture; the Bhagavad Gita, “Now I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds”. Oppenheimer knew he was in the moment.

As we look at the current geopolitical landscape, we find ourselves firmly in the grips of the second Trump administration.  There is a dramatic decline in the status of America, both domestically and internationally. The economic outlook is uncertain. America is funding a war in Ukraine and a genocide in Gaza. Homelessness, unemployment and incarceration rates are continuously on the rise.

One can only conclude that we are living in a historic moment. Steve Bannon, the former Trump campaign and White House advisor calls it “managed decline”.

One of the ironies in all of this is we have seen this movie before. We are watching Trump Redux. We are not just watching the film; we are actors in it.

For those of us that are old enough to remember, watching the news and political programs today is analogous to watching the Rocky Horror Picture Show. We find ourselves constantly yelling at the screen, except this is unscripted.

People are aghast listening to President Trump attack DEI policies, firing federal Inspectors General, threatening to close the Department of Education and pledging to fire FBI agents that investigated January 6.  Steve Bannon told us in 2019

Dr. WIlliam Leon III Commentary

of what was to come, “…we had a whole tiger team of the White House counsel guys, the ‘deconstruction of the administrative state,’ which is a huge element… we want less (government intervention). In fact, we want to start to take apart certain parts of the apparatus.”  America, you were warned.

Now, the authoritarian that over 77M Americans voted for wants to disregard the constitutionally guaranteed right of “birthright citizenship”. He is impounding funds, freezing nearly all foreign aid, federal grants and loans as if he has been magically granted the power of the “ex post facto veto”.

Almost none of President Trump’s policies have gone through legislation or House votes.   Trump issues his edicts through Executive Order.  The American people are being subjected to a flurry or whirlwind of executive action.  Bannon called it “flooding the zone and muzzle velocity”. “Every day we hit them with three things. They’ll bite on one, and we’ll get all of our stuff done, bang, bang, bang. These guys will never—will never be able to recover. But we’ve got to start with muzzle velocity.”  Some people may think Trump is crazy.  If he is, he’s crazy like a fox.

But it’s not just him. President Trump is not alone.  The racist suggestion of Trump saying, the United States should own Gaza and develop it into “the Riviera of the Middle East” by displacing the Palestinians from their homeland to other countries in the region, was first posited by former President Joe Biden. The AP reported, “A Western diplomat in Cairo said Egypt rejected similar proposals from the Biden administration and European countries early in the war.”  Trump’s major faux pas was he made Biden’s secret proposal public. Trump is not alone in his racist deportation efforts. CNN reported, “According to an analysis by the Migration Policy Institute, more than 12 million people were “deported”—either removed or returned—from the US during the Clinton administration. More than 10 million were removed or returned during the Bush administration. Far fewer— more than 5 million—were removed or returned during the Obama administration.” Lest we forget, President Obama was dubbed the “Deporter in Chief”.

Trump’s ideas of deconstructing the administrative state, cutting government agencies or his privatization/neo-liberal policies via Project 2025 are not new.

Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich proposed similar tactics with his “Contract with America”.  Former President Bill Clinton thought he could make government more efficient by employing principals from the private sector by “Reinventing Government as We Know It”.  The major problem with these schemes is very simple. The goal of private sector capitalism is the maximization of profit. The goal of democratic/republic government is the protection of the people and the delivery of services. Contrary to the beliefs of the oligarchs, government is not in the “business” of making money. It’s lucky if it breaks even.

Don’t let this context confuse you.  Sen. Graham is correct, President Trump is “…a race-baiting, xenophobic religious bigot.” This is evidenced by his baseless rants about Mexican rapists, his proposed Muslim ban, his lie about Barack Obama’s birthplace, his attack on the Central Park 5, his baseless attack on DEI programs, removing historical videos of its storied Black Tuskegee Airmen from Air Force training modules, supporting genocide in Gaza, just to name a few.  Remember, all of this resonated with over 77M Americans.

So, what are we to do?  Well, for starters do not listen to Rep. Nancy Pelosi.  Anyone who tries to insist that the election was not a rebuke of the Democrats is delusional and anyone who argues that Democrats don’t need to change is clueless.

I strongly suggest reading Dr. King’s 1963 Letter from a Birmingham Jail, “We know through painful experience that freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.” Then read Frederick Douglas’, 1857 speech, If There Is No Struggle, There Is No Progress—“Find out just what any people will quietly submit to and you have found out the exact measure of injustice and wrong which will be imposed upon them, and these will continue till they are resisted with either words or blows, or with both. The limits of tyrants are prescribed by the endurance of those whom they oppress.”

After that, read more and remember, when they tell you about their own, they are also telling you about themselves. Believe them.

(Dr. Wilmer Leon is a nationally broadcast radio talkshow host. Author of Politics Another Perspective. Host of the podcast Connecting the Dots w/ Dr. Wilmer Leon. Go to www.wilmerleon.com or email: wjl3us@yahoo. com. www.twitter.com/drwleon and Dr. Leon’s Prescription at Facebook.com © 2025 InfoWave Communications, LLC)

Donald John Trump is a dictator

by Cynthia Ackron Baldwin

Donald Trump is a master of exaggeration, misinformation and disinformation. All are fancy words to say that if his lips are moving, he is lying. However, he was truthful about one issue, his admiration for dictators. He even said that he would be dictator for a day. He just didn’t tell us how long his day would be. To be clear, Donald is not a president; Donald is a dictator. According to the Oxford Dictionary, a dictator is “a political leader who has complete power over a country” or “a person who behaves as if they have complete power over other people.” This definition fits Donald. There are three main

Dictators

CASHIERS CHECK at time of sale, otherwise the property will be resold at the next regular Sheriffs Sale; provided, that if the sale is made on MONDAY, MARCH 3, 2025 the bidder may pay ten percent of purchasing price but not less than 75.00 in CASH, CERTIFIED CHECK, OR CASHIERS CHECK THE DAY IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE SALE, e.g. TUESDAY, MARCH 4, 2025, BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 8:30AM AND 2:30PM IN THE ALLEGHENY COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE. Failure to pay the 10% deposit will have you banned from future Sheriff Sales. And the balance in CASH, CERTIFIED CHECK, OR CASHIERS CHECK, on or before MONDAY, MARCH 10, 2025, at 10:00 O’CLOCK A.M. The property will be resold at the next regular Sheriff’s Sale if the balance is not paid, and in such case all money’s paid in at the original sale shall be applied to any deficiency in the price of which property is resold, and provided further that if the successful bidder is the plaintiff in the execution the bidder shall pay full amount of bid ON OR BEFORE THE FIRST MONDAY OF THE FOLLOWING MONTH, OTHERWISE WRIT WILL BE RETURNED AND MARKED “REAL ESTATE UNSOLD” and all monies advanced by plaintiff will be applied as required by COMMON PLEAS COURT RULE 3129.2 (1) (a).

FORFEITED SALES WILL BE POSTED IN THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE AND LISTED ON THE SHERIFF OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY WEB SITE.

AMENDMENT OF THE CODE SECOND CLASS COUNTY NEW CHAPTER 475 THE ALLEGHENY COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 475, ENTITLED TAXATION IS HEREBY AMENDED THROUGH THE CREATION ARTICLE XII, ENTITLED, “SHERIFF SALES”, AND COMPRISED AS FOLLOWS: SUBSECTION 475-60: RECORDING OF DEEDS AND NOTIFICATION OF SHERIFFS SALES TO TAXING BODIES.

A. FOR ANY REAL PROPERTY OFFERED AT SHERIFFS SALE DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF REAL ESTATE TAXES AND PURCHASED BY A THIRD PARTY THROUGH SUCH SALE, THE SHERIFF SHALL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR FILING THE DEED AND, WITHIN SEVEN DAYS OF FILING OF THE SHERIFFS DEED, PROVIDE WRITTEN NOTICE OF THE CONVEYANCE TO THE ALLEGHENY COUNTY OFFICE OF PROPERTY ASSESSMENTS. THE WRITTEN NOTICE REQUIRED PURSUANT TO THIS SUBSECTION SHALL INCLUDE THE DATE OF THE SALE, IDENTIFICATION OF THE PROPERTY SOLD BY BOTH ADDRESS AND LOT AND BLOCK NUMBER, AND THE NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE INDIVIDUALS OR OTHER ENTITY THAT PURCHASED THE PROPERTY.

B. AT THE TIME OF THE SALE THE SHERIFF SHALL COLLECT ALL REQUISITE FILING COSTS, REALTY TRANSFER TAXES AND FEES, NECESSARY TO PROPERLY RECORD THE DEED.

C. WITHIN SEVEN DAYS OF RECEIPT OF WRITTEN NOTICE FROM THE SHERIFF, THE ALLEGHENY COUNTY OFFICE OF PROPERTY ASSESSMENTS SHALL FORWARD COPIES OF SUCH NOTICE TO ALL TAXING BODIES LEVYING REAL ESTATE TAXES ON THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE MUNICIPALITY AND SCHOOL DISTRICT WHERE THE PROPERTY IS LOCATED. AS REQUIRED BY SECTION 14 OF ACT NO. 77 OF 1986, THE COST OF ALL DOCUMENTARY STAMPS FOR REAL ESTATE TRANSFER TAXES (STATE, LOCAL, AND SCHOOL) WILL BE DEDUCTED BY THE SHERIFF FROM THE PROCEEDS OF THE SALE. Purchasers must pay the necessary recording fees. Pursuant to Rule 3136 P.R.C.P. NOTICE is hereby given that a schedule of distribution will be filed by the Sheriff not later than 30 days from date of sale and that distribution will be made in accordance with the schedule unless exceptions are filed thereto within 10 days thereafter. No further notice of the filing of the schedule of distribution will be given.

A Land Bank formed under 68 Pa. C.S.A. 2101 et seq. may exercise its right to bid pursuant to 68 Pa. C.S.A. 2117(d) (2) through Pa. C.S.A. 2117(d) (4) on certain properties listed for sale under the municipal claims and Tax Lien Law, 53 P.S. 7101 et seq. The Sheriff of Allegheny County will honor the terms of payment which the Land Bank has entered with any municipalities having a claim against the property. If the Land Bank tenders a bid under Pa. C.S.A. 2117(d)(3) or 2117(d)(4) the property will not be offered for sale to others and the Property will be considered sold to the Land Bank for the Upset Price as defined in P.S.7279 and no other bids will be accepted.

NOTICE IS GIVEN THAT ALL SHERIFFS DEEDS TENDERED TO PURCHASERS WILL CONTAIN THE FOLLOWING:

NOTICE: The undersigned, as evidenced by the signature(s) to this notice and the acceptance and recording of this deed, (is/are) fully cognizant of the fact that the undersigned may not be obtaining the right of protection against subsidence, as to the property herein conveyed, resulting from coal mining operations and that the purchased property, herein conveyed, may be protected from damage due to mine subsidence by a private contract with the owners of the economic interest in the coal. This notice is inserted herein to comply with the Bituminous Mine Subsidence and Land Conservation Act of 1966. as amended 1980. Oct. 10, P.L 874, No.

“This

may not

convey, transfer, include, or insure the title to the coal and right of

described or referred to herein and the owner or owners of

to remove all of such coal, and in

4MAR25

Defendant: 109 GATEHOUSE DRIVE, LLC Case No.: AR-23-004940

Debt: $4,099.72 Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: Fred C. Jug, Jr. *********************** Address of Plaintiffs Attorney: 310 Grant Street, Suite 1109, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 *********************** Attorney Telephone Number: 412-255-6500 *********************** Short Description: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township of Moon: HAVING ERECTED THEREON AN CHERRINGTON HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 109 GATEHOUSE DRIVE, CORAOPOLIS, PA 15108. DEED BOOK VOLUME 17974, PAGE 429. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 0337-A-000140000-00.

5MAR25

412-255-6500 *********************** Short Description: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, South Fayette Township: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A HUNTING RIDGE NO. 4 CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 2461 BROOK LEDGE RD, UNIT 33A, BRIDGEVILLE, PA 15017. DEED BOOK VOLUME 11242, PAGE 634. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 0481-S-00472-033A-00.

6MAR25 PLAINTIFF(S) : BETHEL PARK SCHOOL DISTRICT vs Defendant: JOSEPH A. SPINNENWEBER, JR. & JUDITH A. WEISSER Case No.: GD-23-013773

Debt: $47,052.64

Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: Megan M. Turnbull, Esquire

Description: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, MUNICIPALITY OF BETHEL PARK: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING, KNOWN AS 5633 WILLOW TERRACE DRIVE, BETHEL PARK, PA 15102. DEED BOOK 5393, PAGE 271. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 665-B-6.

7MAR25

PLAINTIFF(S) : GATEWAY SCHOOL DISTRICT vs Defendant: DUANE E. MORROW & TERRI LEE MORROW Case No.: GD-24-001220

Debt: $25,463.61

********

Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: Megan M. Turnbull, Esquire

***********************

Address of Plaintiffs Attorney: 445 Fort Pitt Boulevard, Suite 503, Pittsburgh, PA 15219

*********************** Attorney Telephone Number: 412-391-0160

*********************** Short Description: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, MUNICIPALITY OF MONROEVILLE: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING, KNOWN AS 605 DAHLIA DRIVE, MONROEVILLE, PA 15146. DEED BOOK 7106, PAGE 215. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 742-L-270.

8MAR25

PLAINTIFF(S) : BETHEL PARK SCHOOL DISTRICT vs Defendant: ADAM BRENT KAUER & JULIE PAIGE CALDWELL

Case No.: GD-23-010165 ******** Debt: $5,326.88 ********

Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: Megan M. Turnbull, Esquire

***********************

Address of Plaintiffs Attorney: 445 Fort Pitt Boulevard, Suite 503, Pittsburgh, PA 15219

*********************** Attorney Telephone Number: 412-391-0160

***********************

Short Description: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, MUNICIPALITY OF BETHEL PARK: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING, KNOWN AS 3129 SOUTH PARK ROAD, BETHEL PARK, PA 15102. DEED BOOK 17008, PAGE 260. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 476-N-60.

9MAR25

PLAINTIFF(S) : UPPER ST. CLAIR SCHOOL DISTRICT vs Defendant: PAUL S. TENCER Case No.: GD-21-013644

Debt: $4,656.98

Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: Megan M. Turnbull, Esquire

*********************** Address of Plaintiffs Attorney: 445 Fort Pitt Boulevard, Suite 503, Pittsburgh, PA 15219

*********************** Attorney Telephone Number: 412-391-0160

***********************

Short Description: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, TOWNSHIP OF UPPER ST. CLAIR: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING, KNOWN AS 452 LORLITA LANE, PITTSBURGH, PA 15241. DEED BOOK 17151, PAGE 471. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 775-C-50.

10MAR25

PLAINTIFF(S) : WEST JEFFERSON HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT vs Defendant: CALFO PROPERTIES LLC Case No.: GD-24-001234

Debt: $11,772.24

******** Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: Megan M. Turnbull, Esquire

*********************** Address of Plaintiffs Attorney:

445 Fort Pitt Boulevard, Suite 503, Pittsburgh, PA 15219

*********************** Attorney Telephone Number: 412-391-0160

***********************

Short Description: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, BOROUGH OF PLEASANT HILLS: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A COMMERCIAL BUILDING, KNOWN AS 91 TERENCE DRIVE, PITTSBURGH, PA 15236. DEED BOOK 16764, PAGE 401. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 472-G126.

11MAR25

PLAINTIFF(S) : BETHEL PARK SCHOOL DISTRICT vs Defendant: ROSE KRISTIN SENAY, Trustee of the Nancy T.

Senay Asset Protection Trust Case No.: GD-23-013771

Debt: $11,439.29

Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: Megan M. Turnbull, Esquire

*********************** Address of Plaintiffs Attorney: 445 Fort Pitt Boulevard, Suite 503, Pittsburgh, PA 15219

*********************** Attorney Telephone Number: 412-391-0160

***********************

Short Description: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, MUNICIPALITY OF BETHEL PARK: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING, KNOWN AS 1160 GRANDVIEW DRIVE, BETHEL PARK, PA 15102. DEED BOOK 16406, PAGE 197. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 666-M-270.

12MAR25

Defendant: Donald R. Fogle, United States of America Case No.: MG-23-001109

Debt: $32,333.81

Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: The Law Office of Gregory Javardian, LLC *********************** Address of Plaintiffs Attorney: 1310 Industrial Boulevard, l ‘1 Floor, Suite 10I, Southampton, PA 18966 *********************** Attorney Telephone Number: 215-942-9690

M. ZIGAROVICH

Description: IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, MUNICIPALITY OF PENN HlLLS: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 6335 WOODLAWN ROAD, VERONA, PA 15147. DEED BOOK 15906, PAGE 523. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 365-R-205.

15MAR25 Defendant: LEANDRA JONES, TIMOTHY P. JONES ******** Case No.: MG-18-000523 ******** Debt: $439,004.80 Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: KML LAW GROUP, P.C.

*********************** Address of Plaintiffs Attorney: SUITE 5000, 701 MARKET STREET PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106

*********************** Attorney Telephone Number: (215) 627-1322

*********************** Short Description: IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, MUNICIPALITY OF MT. LEBANON: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 11 MOUNT LEBANON BOULEYARD, PITTSBURGH, PA 15228. DEED BOOK 16643, PAGE 159. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER251-A-242.

17MAR25 Defendant: BERTHA M. TURNER Case No.: MG-24-000764 ******** Debt: $85,222.58 ******** Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: KML LAW GROUP, P.C. *********************** Address of Plaintiffs Attorney: SUITE 5000, 701 MARKET STREET PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106

*********************** Attorney Telephone Number: (215) 627-1322

*********************** Short Description: IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANlA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, 20TH WARD CITY OF PITTSBURGH: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 1129 OSWIN STREET, PITTSBURGH, PA 15220. DEED BOOK 13287, PAGE 119. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 20-P-22.

18MAR25 Defendant:

M. PARRISH,

LERSCH, KNOWN SURVIVING HEIR OF BERNARD M. PARRISH, SALLY MORBECK, KNOWN SURVIVING HEIR OF BERNARD M. PARRISH, AND UNKNOWN SURVIVING HEIRS OF BERNARD M.

PARRISH Case No.: GD-23-014416

DEBT: $120,491.13

Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: CHELSEA A. NIXON, ESQUIRE

*********************** Address of Plaintiffs Attorney: MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC 216 HADDON AVENUE, SUITE 201 WESTMONT, NJ 08108

*********************** Attorney Telephone Number:(856) 858-7080

***********************

Short Description: IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, BOROUGH OF FOREST HILLS:

HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING

BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 114 BRADDOCK ROAD, PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA 15221. DEED BOOK VOLUME 6992, PAGE 596. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 0300-A-00222-0000-00.

34MAR25 DEFENDANTS: YUSEF S. THOMPSON, SR. and TERRIKA M. THOMPSON

Case No.: MG 24-000567 DEBT: $126,560.40

Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: Jeffrey R. Lalarna, Esquire

*********************** Address of Plaintiffs Attorney: Meyer, Unkovic & Scott, LLP 535 Smithfield Street, Suite 1300 Pittsburgh, PA 15222

*********************** Attorney Telephone Number:412-456-2876

***********************

Short Description: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Municipality of Penn Hills: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 265 CYPRESS HILL DRIVE, PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA 15235, DEED BOOK VOLUME 17454, PAGE 287. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 0633-S-00016-000000

35MAR25

DEFENDANTS: Dominic J. Mussomele Case No.: MG-24-000801 DEBT: $117,458.53

Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: MDK Legal

*********************** Address of Plaintiffs Attorney: P. 0. Box 165028 Columbus, OH 43216-5028 *********************** Attorney Telephone Number:614-220-5611 *********************** Short Description: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Baldwin: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 3004 Ruthwood Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15227. Document Number 201714355, Deed Book Volume 16801, Page 440. Block and Lot Number 0094-S-00108-0000-00.

36MAR25 DEFENDANTS: Faydra Heidkamp ************ Case No.: MG-24-000769 ******** DEBT: $130,038.61

Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: MDK Legal

Address of Plaintiffs Attorney: P. 0. Box 165028 Columbus, OH 43216-5028 *********************** Attorney Telephone Number:614-220-5611 *********************** Short Description: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, City of Pittsburgh, Ward 19: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 321 Belonda Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15211. Document Number 2009-11011, Deed Book Volume 13928, Page 320. Block and Lot Number 0004-F-00039-0000-00.

37MAR25

DEFENDANTS: Christy L. Carlin

Case No.: MG-24-000766

DEBT: $84,693.53

Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: MDK Legal

*********************** Address of Plaintiffs Attorney: P. 0. Box 165028 Columbus, OH 43216-5028

*********************** Attorney Telephone Number:614-220-5611

***********************

Short Description: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, City of Pittsburgh, Ward 28: Having erected thereon a dwelling being known and numbered as 1456 Harris Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15205. Document Number 2019-2877, Deed Book Volume 17507, Page 296. Block and Lot Number 0040-R-00093-0000-00.

38MAR25

DEFENDANTS: KURT E. STEIGERWALD AND KATHY STEIGERWALD Case No.: MG-23-000043

DEBT: $470,216.94

Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: Jill M. Fein, Esquire/ Hill Wallack LLP *********************** Address of Plaintiffs Attorney: 1000 Floral Vale Boulevard, Suite 300, Yardley, PA 19067

*********************** Attorney Telephone Number: (215) 579-7700

***********************

Short Description: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, City of Pittsburgh-26th Ward

HAVING ERECTED THEREON A TWO STORY RESIDENTIAL DWELLING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 3875 HARPEN RD, PITTSBURGH, PA 15214 DEED BOOK VOLUME 8626, PAGE 336. BLOCK & LOT NO. 163-R-40.

39MAR25 DEFENDANTS: JERRY SUNDAY, MARCY L. SUNDAY Case No.: MG--23-000901 DEBT: $124,852.19

Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: KML LAW GROUP, P.C. *********************** Address of Plaintiffs Attorney: SUITE 5000, 701 MARKET STREET PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106 ***********************

Attorney Telephone Number: (215) 627-1322

***********************

Short Description: IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, MUNICIPALITY OF PENN HILLS: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 1131 HAMIL ROAD, VERONA, PA 15147. DEED BOOK 12773, PAGE 39. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 534-P-123. 40MAR25 DEFENDANTS: THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JULIE A. HAGMAIER DECEASED, EDWARD M. HAGMAIER, SOLELY IN HIS

41MAR25

of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, South Park Township: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 1506 WASHINGTON AVENUE, SOUTH PARK, PA 15129. DEED BOOK VOLUME 18701, PAGE 419. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER. 887-B-71.

42MAR25

DEFENDANTS: JANE S. BREZNAY Case No.: MG-24-000686 DEBT: $44,860.23

Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: KML LAW GROUP, P.C. *********************** Address of Plaintiffs

SUITE 5000, 701 MARKET STREET PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106

Telephone Number: (215) 627-1322

Short Description: IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, 1ST WARD CITY OF DUQUESNE: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 30 COMMONWEALTH AVENUE, DUQUESNE, PA 15110. DEED BOOK 10358, PAGE 619. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER 304-F-94.

43MAR25 DEFENDANTS: JERROLD HOWARD ************ Case No.: MG-24-000751 ******** DEBT: $87,452.43 ******** Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: KML LAW GROUP, P.C. *********************** Address of Plaintiffs Attorney: SUITE 5000, 701 MARKET STREET PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106 *********************** Attorney Telephone Number: (215) 627-1322

***********************

Short Description: IN THE COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY, BOROUGH OF VERONA: HAVING ERECTED THEREON A DWELLING

BEING KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS 513-515 VOGELS LANE, VERONA, PA 15147. DEED BOOK 10187, PAGE 394. BLOCK AND LOT NUMBER364-R-361.

44MAR25

PLAINTIFF(S): County OF Allegheny VS. DEFENDANTS: Thomas Gary Minarik, Jr. & Jennifer Ashley Yeager ************ Case No.: GD 23-005775

DEBT: $2,242.82

Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire

*********************** Address of Plaintiffs Attorney: 525 William Penn Place, Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219

*********************** Attorney Telephone Number: (412) 281-0587

*********************** Short Description: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Township of Crescent: Having erected thereon a two-story frame house known as 717 Elm Street, Crescent, PA 15046. Deed Book Volume i4580, Page 588. Block & Lot No. 702-G-185.

46MAR25

PLAINTIFF(S): County OF Allegheny VS. DEFENDANTS: Susan L. Davis

************ Case No.: GD 23-013985 ******** DEBT: $3,020.49 ******** Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire

*********************** Address of Plaintiffs Attorney: 525 William Penn Place, Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219

*********************** Attorney Telephone Number: (412) 281-0587 *********************** Short Description: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, City of Duquesne- Ward 3: Having erected thereon a two-story brick house being known as 1109 Maryland Avenue,

County OF Allegheny VS. DEFENDANTS: Alfred Nannini Case No.: GD 23-002192 DEBT: $2,748.43

Address of Plaintiffs Attorney: 525 William Penn Place, Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 *********************** Attorney Telephone Number: (412) 281-0587

*********************** Short Description: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Millvale: Having erected thereon a two-story frame house being known as 938 Cross Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15209. Deed Book Volume 11855, Page 593. Block & Lot No. 118-C-38.

51MAR25

PLAINTIFF(S): County OF Allegheny VS. DEFENDANTS: Lyndis M. Callen Case No.: GD 19-007440

DEBT: $4,654.71

Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire

*********************** Address of Plaintiffs Attorney: 525 William Penn Place, Suite 3110 Pittsburgh, PA 15219

*********************** Attorney Telephone Number: (412) 281-0587

*********************** Short Description: In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, Borough of Tarentum: Having erected thereon a two-story frame house being known as 500 2nd Avenue, Tarentum, PA 15084. Deed Book Volume 12948, Page 111. Block & Lot No. 1223-M-17.

53MAR25

PLAINTIFF(S): County OF Allegheny VS. DEFENDANTS: John P. Zurick

************ Case No.: GD 23-000973

DEBT: $3,762.72

Name of Plaintiffs Attorney: Joseph W. Gramc, Esquire

OF WILKINS PUBLIC NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT PROPOSED ORDINANCE NUMBER 1133

The Wilkins Township Board of Commissioners will consider adoption of the following Ordinance at a public meeting to be held on the 24th day of February 2025 at 7:00 p.m. in the Municipal Building, 110 Peffer Road, Wilkins Township, Pennsylvania. The complete text of the Ordinance is on file and may be inspected in the Office of the Township Secretary at the aforesaid Municipal Building during normal business hours.

The title and a summary of the ordinance is as follows.

PROPOSED ORDINANCE #1133

TITLE AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP OF WILKINS, ALLEGHENY COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, AMENDING THE CODIFIED BOOK OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 450, ZONING, ARTICLE II, DEFINITIONS AND WORD USAGE, SECTION 450-7, TO ADD DEFINITIONS FOR CHARTER, PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SCHOOLS; ARTICLE III, DISTRICT REGULATIONS, SECTION 450-11, CONDITIONAL USES, TO ALLOW FOR PUBLIC AND CHARTER SCHOOLS TO BE LOCATED IN THE R-1, R-2, R-3 AND R-4 ZONING DISTRICTS; AND ARTICLE VI, CONDITIONAL USES, SECTION 450-50, CRITERIA FOR APPROVAL, TO ADD PARAGRAPH R.

SUMMARY

The Ordinance amends the Zoning Ordinance to add definitions and criteria for Conditional Use approval for charter, public and private schools.

NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND FORECLOSURE SALE

WHEREAS, on November 04, 2010, a certain mortgage was executed by ANNA M. TRIGLIA, as mortgagor in favor of FIRST COMMONWEALTH HOME MORTGAGE, LLC as mortgagee and was recorded in Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Allegheny County in Mortgage Book M VL-38756, Page 435 or Document# 2010-94967 (“Mortgage”); and WHEREAS, the Mortgage encumbers property located at 630 Farnsworth Avenue Clairton, PA 15025, parcel number 1002-G-83(“Property”); and WHEREAS, Mortgagor/Record Owner ANNA M TRIGLIA died on 09/05/20 intestate and is survived by no known heirs. ;and WHEREAS, the Property was owned by ANNA M. TRIGLIA by virtue of deed dated 2/3/1999 and recorded 3/16/1999 in Book:10418 Page:485 ;and WHEREAS, the Mortgage is now owned by the Secretary of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (“Secretary”), pursuant to an assignment recorded on 4/18/2016 in Book M VL-46337, Page 513 or Document# 2016-25197, in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania; and WHEREAS, a default has been made in the covenants and conditions of the Mortgage (paragraph 9 (a)(i)), as ANNA M TRIGLIA died on 09/05/2020 and that upon the death the entire principal balance becomes due and owing, and that no payment was made, and remains wholly unpaid as of the date of this Notice; and WHEREAS, the entire amount delinquent as of 1/15/2025 is $39,125.12 plus interest, costs and other charges through the sale date; and WHEREAS, by virtue of this default, the Secretary has declared the entire amount of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage to be immediately due and payable;

NOW THEREFORE, pursuant to powers vested in me by the Single Family Mortgage Foreclosure Act of 1994, l2 U.S.C. 3751 et seq., by 24 CFR Part 29, and by the Secretary’s designation of me as Foreclosure Commissioner, recorded on 06/28/2012 in Misc. Bk-DE, Vl-14933, Pg-17, in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, notice is hereby given that on 03/05/2025; at 10:00 AM at at the Main Entrance of the Allegheny County Courthouse located at 436 Grant St, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 all real property and personal property at or used in connection with the following described premises will be sold at public action to the highest bidder: All that certain lot or tract of ground situate in the Second Ward, City of Clairton, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, being part of Lot designated “I” in Clairton Heights Plan of Lots laid out by Clairton Land Company, said plan being of record in the Recorder’s Office of said County in Plan Book

31 pages 192-193, and being bounded and described as follows:

Beginning at a point on the southerly line of Farnsworth Avenue distant South 88 degrees 01 minutes East 47.85 feet from the Southeasterly corner of Farnsworth Avenue and Bessemer Street in said plan; thence along the southerly line of Farnsworth Avenue South 88 degrees 01 minutes East 24.25 feet to a point on the prolongation of center line of a party wall; thence along the center line of said party wall and the prolongation’s thereof South 1 degree 59 minutes West 100 feet to the northerly line of Farnsworth Way in said plan; thence along the northerly line of said Farnsworth Way North 88 degrees 01 minutes West 24.25 feet to a point; thence North 1 degrees 59 Minutes East 100 feet to the southerly line of Farnsworth Avenue, the place of beginning.

Having erected thereon a dwelling, No. 630 Farnsworth Avenue.

Subject to any outstanding oil and gas rights of record.

Also subject to the rights of other in the party wall mentioned in the foregoing description and in the drain pipes, sewer lines, gas lines and water lines, if any, extending over and across said property, together with the right to use such party wall, drain pipes, sewer lines and water lines, if any, with others having rights therein.

Subject to the buildings and use restrictions appearing in prior deeds of record.

1002-G-83

The sale will be held 03/05/2025; at 10:00 AM at outside the Main Entrance of the Allegheny County Courthouse located at 436 Grant St, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development will bid $39,125.12 plus interest, costs and other charges through the sale date. Ten percent (10%) of the highest bid is the deposit required at the sale. The amount that must be paid to HUD by the mortgagors or someone acting on their behalf so that the sale may be stayed is the total delinquent amount of $39,125.12 as of 01/15/2025, plus all other amounts that would be due under the mortgage agreement if payments under the mortgage had not been accelerated, advertising costs and postage expenses incurred in giving notice, mileage by the most reasonable road distance for posting notices and for the Foreclosure Commissioner’s attendance at the sale, reasonable and customary costs incurred for title and lien record searches, the necessary out-of-pocket costs incurred by the Foreclosure Commissioner for recording documents, a commission for the Foreclosure Commissioner, and all other costs incurred in connection with the foreclosure prior to reinstatement.

There will be no proration of taxes, rents or other income or liabilities, except that the purchaser will pay, at or before closing, his prorata share of any real estate taxes that have been paid by the Secretary to the date of the foreclosure sale.

When making their bid, all bidders, except the Secretary, must submit a deposit totaling ten percent 10% of the Secretary’s bid as set forth above in the form of a certified check or cashier’s check made out to the Secretary of HUD. Each oral bid need not be accompanied by a deposit. If the successful bid is oral, a deposit of ten (10%) percent must be presented before the bidding is closed. The deposit is nonrefundable. The remainder of the purchase price must be delivered within thirty (30) days of the sale or at such other time as the Secretary may determine for good cause shown, time being of the essence. This amount, like the bid deposits, must be delivered in the form of a certified or cashier’s check. If the Secretary is the high bidder, he need not pay the bid amount in cash. The successful bidder will pay all conveyance fees, all real estate and other taxes that are due on or after the delivery of the remainder of the payment and all other costs associated with the transfer of title. At the conclusion of the sale, the deposits of the unsuccessful bidders will be returned to them.

The Secretary may grant an extension of time within which to deliver the remainder of the payment. All extensions will be for fifteen (15) days, and a fee will be charged in the amount of $150.00 for each fifteen (15) day extension requested. The extension fee shall be paid in the form of a certified or cashier’s check made payable to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. If the high bidder closes the sale prior to the expiration of any extension period, the unused portion of the extension fee shall be applied toward the amount due.

If the high bidder is unable to close the sale within the required period, or within any extensions of time granted by the Secretary, the high bidder’s deposit will be forfeited, and the Commissioner may, at the direction of the HUD Field Office Representative, offer the Property to the second highest bidder for an amount equal to the highest price offered by that bidder.

There is no right of redemption, or right of possession based upon a right of redemption, in the mortgagor or others subsequent to a foreclosure completed pursuant to the Act. Therefore, the Foreclosure Commissioner will issue a Deed to the purchaser(s) upon receipt of the entire purchase price in accordance with the terms of the sale as provided herein.

KML LAW GROUP, P.C. Foreclosure Commissioners (215-825-6305)

NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND FORECLOSURE SALE

WHEREAS, on January 18, 2008, a certain mortgage was executed by HELEN VIRGINIA LOGAN SMITH, as mortgagor in favor of FINANCIAL FREEDOM SENIOR FUNDING CORPORATION, A SUBSIBARY OF INDYMAC BANK, F.S.B. as mortgagee and was recorded in Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Allegheny County in Mortgage Book M VL 34970 Page 518 Instrument # 2008-8984 (“Mortgage”); and WHEREAS, the Mortgage encumbers property located at 705 Taylor Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15202, parcel number D-00093-0000-00(“Property”); and WHEREAS, Mortgagor/Record Owner HELEN VIRGINIA LOGAN SMITH died on 05/10/23. By operation of law title vests solely in KATHLEEN LOUISE LOGAN GLAYDA and HELEN VIRGINIA LOGAN SMITH is hereby released of liability pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1144. ;and WHEREAS, the Property was owned by HELEN VIRGINIA LOGAN SMITH & HELEN VIRGINIA LOGAN SMITH by virtue of deed dated 6/10/1959 and recorded 6/16/1959 in Book 3796 Page 211 ;and WHEREAS, the Mortgage is now owned by the Secretary of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (“Secretary”), pursuant to an assignment recorded on 2/3/2021 in Book M VL 53628 Page 228 Instrument # 2021-12263, in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania; and WHEREAS, a default has been made in the covenants and conditions of the Mortgage (paragraph 9 (a)(i)), as HELEN VIRGINIA LOGAN SMITH died on 05/10/2023 and that upon the death the entire principal balance becomes due and owing, and that no payment was made, and remains wholly unpaid as of the date of this Notice; and WHEREAS, the entire amount delinquent as of 11/25/2024 is $122,978.68 plus interest, costs and other charges through the sale date; and WHEREAS, by virtue of this default, the Secretary has declared the entire amount of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage to be immediately due and payable; NOW THEREFORE, pursuant to powers vested in me by the Single Family Mortgage Foreclosure Act of 1994, l2 U.S.C. 3751 et seq., by 24 CFR Part 29, and by the Secretary’s designation of me as Foreclosure Commissioner, recorded on 06/28/2012 in Misc. Bk-DE, Vl-14933, Pg 17, in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, notice is hereby given that on 03/04/2025; at 10:00 AM at at the Main Entrance of the Allegheny County Courthouse located at 436 Grant St, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 all real property and personal property at or used in connection with the following described premises will be sold at public action to the highest bidder: ALL THAT CERTAIN LOT OR PIECE OF GROUND SITUATE IN THE BOROUGH OF AVALON, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY AND COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, KNOWN AND NUMBERED AS LOT NO. 13 IN THE JOHN W. COOK PLAN OF LOTS CALLED “WOODLAWN”, AS RECORDED IN THE RECORDER’S OFFICE OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY IN PLAN BOOK, VOL. 17, PAGE 192, BEING MORE PARTICULARLY BOUNDED AND DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS, TO-WIT: BEGINNING ON THE NORTHERLY SIDE OF TAYLOR AVENUE, AT A POINT DISTANT EIGHTY (80) FEET FROM THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SCHOOL STREET AND TAYLOR AVENUE; THENCE IN A NORTHEASTWARDLY DIRECTION ALONG THE DIVIDING LINE BETWEEN LOTS NOS. 12 AND 13 IN SAID PLAN, A DISTANCE OF ONE HUNDRED FIVE (105) FEET TO THE SOUTHERLY LINE OF DUFF ALLEY; THENCE NORTHEASTWARDLY ALONG THE SOUTHERLY LINE OF DUFF ALLEY, A DISTANCE OF FORTY (40) FEET TO THE DIVIDING LINE BETWEEN LOTS NOS. 13 AND 14 IN SAID PLAN; THENCE IN A SOUTHWESTWARDLY DIRECTION ALONG THE DIVIDING LINE BETWEEN LOTS NOS. 13 AND 14 IN SAID PLAN A DISTANCE OF ONE HUNDRED FIVE (105) FEET TO THE NORTHERLY LINE OF TAYLOR AVENUE; AND THENCE IN A NORTHWESTWARDLY DIRECTION ALONG THE NORTHERLY LINE OF TAYLOR AVENUE, A DISTANCE OF FORTY (40) FEET TO THE PLACE OF THE BEGINNING.

HAVING ERECTED THEREON A 2-1/2 STORY BRICK MULTI-FAMILY DWELLING KNOWN AS NO. 705 TAYLOR AVENUE, AVALON, PITTSBURGH 2, PENNSYLVANIA.

BEING BLOCK NO. 159 D, LOT NO. 93, IN THE DEED REGISTRY OFFICE. FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY: THE APN IS SHOWN BY THE COUNTY ASSESSOR AS 0159-D-00093-0000-00; SOURCE OF TITLE IS BOOK 3796, PAGE 211 (RECORDED 06/16/59)

The sale will be held 03/04/2025; at 10:00 AM at the Main Entrance of the Allegheny County Courthouse located at 436 Grant St, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development will bid $122,978.68 plus interest, costs and other charges through the sale date. Ten percent (10%) of the highest bid is the deposit required at the sale. The amount that must be paid to HUD by the mortgagors or someone acting on their behalf so that the sale may be stayed is the total delinquent amount of $122,978.68 as of 11/25/2024, plus all other amounts that would be due under the mortgage agreement if payments under the mortgage had not been accelerated, advertising costs and postage expenses incurred in giving notice, mileage by the most reasonable road distance for posting notices and for the Foreclosure Commissioner’s attendance at the sale, reasonable and customary costs incurred for title and lien record searches, the necessary out-of-pocket costs incurred by the Foreclosure Commissioner for recording documents, a commission for the Foreclosure Commissioner, and all other costs incurred in connection with the foreclosure prior to reinstatement. There will be no proration of taxes, rents or other income or liabilities, except that the purchaser will pay, at or before closing, his prorata share of any real estate taxes that have been paid by the Secretary to the date of the foreclosure sale.

When making their bid, all bidders, except the Secretary, must submit a deposit totaling ten percent 10% of the Secretary’s bid as set forth above in the form of a certified check or cashier’s check made out to the Secretary of HUD. Each oral bid need not be accompanied by a deposit. If the successful bid is oral, a deposit of ten (10%) percent must be presented before the bidding is closed. The deposit is nonrefundable. The remainder of the purchase price must be delivered within thirty (30) days of the sale or at such other time as the Secretary may determine for good cause shown, time being of the essence. This amount, like the bid deposits, must be delivered in the form of a certified or cashier’s check. If the Secretary is the high bidder, he need not pay the bid amount in cash. The successful bidder will pay all conveyance fees, all real estate and other taxes that are due on or after the delivery of the remainder of the payment and all other costs associated with the transfer of title. At the conclusion of the sale, the deposits of the unsuccessful bidders will be returned to them. The Secretary may grant an extension of time within which to deliver the remainder of the payment. All extensions will be for fifteen (15) days, and a fee will be charged in the amount of $150.00 for each fifteen (15) day extension requested. The extension fee shall be paid in the form of a certified or cashier’s check made payable to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. If the high bidder closes the sale prior to the expiration of any extension period, the unused portion of the extension fee shall be applied toward the amount due.

If the high bidder is unable to close the sale within the required period, or within any extensions of time granted by the Secretary, the high bidder’s deposit will be forfeited, and the Commissioner may, at the direction of the HUD Field Office Representative, offer the Property to the second highest bidder for an amount equal to the highest price offered by that bidder. There is no right of redemption, or right of possession based upon a right of redemption, in the mortgagor or others subsequent to a foreclosure completed pursuant to the Act. Therefore, the Foreclosure Commissioner will issue a Deed to the purchaser(s) upon receipt of the KML LAW GROUP, P.C. Foreclosure Commissioners (215-825-6305)

ANNOUNCEMENTS Public Notice ANNOUNCEMENTS Public Notice

NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND FORECLOSURE SALE

WHEREAS, on November 19, 2004, a certain mortgage was executed by ROSE MARIE MOORE, as mortgagor in favor of ALL-PENNSYLVANIA REVERSE MORTGAGE, INC. as mortgagee and was recorded in Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Allegheny County in Mortgage Book VL 29112 Page 438 Instrument # 2004-217454 (“Mortgage”); and WHEREAS, the Mortgage encumbers property located at 1209 Swissvale Avenue a/k/a 1211 Swissvale Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15221, parcel number 0232-P-00101-0000-00 (“Property”); and WHEREAS, the Property was owned by ROSE MARIE MOORE by virtue of deed dated 7/10/1986 and recorded 7/16/1986 in Instrument No. 18016 ;and WHEREAS, the Mortgage is now owned by the Secretary of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (“Secretary”), pursuant to an assignment recorded on 11/16/2017 in Book VL 48639 Page 44, in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania; and WHEREAS, a default has been made in the covenants and conditions of the Mortgage (paragraph 9 (b)(i)), as the Property ceased to be the principal residence of the Borrower and the entire principal balance becomes due and owing, and that no payment was made, and remains wholly unpaid as of the date of this Notice; and WHEREAS, the entire amount delinquent as of 11/25/2024 is $52,955.49 plus interest, costs and other charges through the sale date; and WHEREAS, by virtue of this default, the Secretary has declared the entire amount of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage to be immediately due and payable; NOW THEREFORE, pursuant to powers vested in me by the Single Family Mortgage Foreclosure Act of 1994, l2 U.S.C. 3751 et seq., by 24 CFR Part 29, and by the Secretary’s designation of me as Foreclosure Commissioner, recorded on 06/28/2012 in Misc. Bk-DE, Vl-14933, Pg 17, in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, notice is hereby given that on 3/04/2025 at 10:00 AM at the Main Entrance of the Allegheny County Courthouse located at 436 Grant St, Pittsburgh, PA 15219all real property and personal property at or used in connection with the following described premises will be sold at public action to the highest bidder: ALL THAT CERTAIN LOT OR PIECE OF GROUND SITUATE IN THE FIRST WARD OF THE BOROUGH OF WILKINSBURG, COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY AND COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA, BOUNDED AND DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS, TO-WIT: BEGINNING ON THE WESTERLY SIDE OF WATER STREET (NOW SWISSVALE AVENUE) IN JAMES KELLEY’S PLAN OF LOTS IN THE BOROUGH OF WILKINSBURG AT A POINT DISTANT 132 FEET NORTHWARDLY FROM NORTH STREET (NOW NORTH AVENUE) IN SAID PLAN; THENCE ALONG SAID SWISSVALE AVENUE, NORTHWARDLY 33 FEET AND EXTENDING BACK WESTWARDLY, RETAINING THE SAME WIDTH, BY LINE PARALLEL WITH NORTH AVENUE, 160 FEET MORE OR LESS, TO AN ALLEY 18 FEET WIDE, LAID OUT BY JOHN D. MCCUNE PARCEL NO: 232-P-101

The sale will be held 03/04/2025 at 10:00 AM at the Main Entrance of the Allegheny County Courthouse located at 436 Grant St, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development will bid $52,955.49 plus interest, costs and other charges through the sale date. Ten percent (10%) of the highest bid is the deposit required at the sale. The amount that must be paid to HUD by the mortgagors or someone acting on their behalf so that the sale may be stayed is the total delinquent amount of $52,955.49 as of 11/25/2024, plus all other amounts that would be due under the mortgage agreement if payments under the mortgage had not been accelerated, advertising costs and postage expenses incurred in giving notice, mileage by the most reasonable road distance for posting notices and for the Foreclosure Commissioner’s attendance at the sale, reasonable and customary costs incurred for title and lien record searches, the necessary out-of-pocket costs incurred by the Foreclosure Commissioner for recording documents, a commission for the Foreclosure Commissioner, and all other costs incurred in connection with the foreclosure prior to reinstatement.

There will be no proration of taxes, rents or other income or liabilities, except that the purchaser will pay, at or before closing, his prorata share of any real estate taxes that have been paid by the Secretary to the date of the foreclosure sale.

When making their bid, all bidders, except the Secretary, must submit a deposit totaling ten percent 10% of the Secretary’s bid as set forth above in the form of a certified check or cashier’s check made out to the Secretary of HUD. Each oral bid need not be accompanied by a deposit. If the successful bid is oral, a deposit of ten (10%) percent must be presented before the bidding is closed. The deposit is nonrefundable. The remainder of the purchase price must be delivered within thirty (30) days of the sale or at such other time as the Secretary may determine for good cause shown, time being of the essence. This amount, like the bid deposits, must be delivered in the form of a certified or cashier’s check. If the Secretary is the high bidder, he need not pay the bid amount in cash. The successful bidder will pay all conveyance fees, all real estate and other taxes that are due on or after the delivery of the remainder of the payment and all other costs associated with the transfer of title. At the conclusion of the sale, the deposits of the unsuccessful bidders will be returned to them.

The Secretary may grant an extension of time within which to deliver the remainder of the payment. All extensions will be for fifteen (15) days, and a fee will be charged in the amount of $150.00 for each fifteen (15) day extension requested. The extension fee shall be paid in the form of a certified or cashier’s check made payable to the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. If the high bidder closes the sale prior to the expiration of any extension period, the unused portion of the extension fee shall be applied toward the amount due. If the high bidder is unable to close the sale within the required period, or within any extensions of time granted by the Secretary, the high bidder’s deposit will be forfeited, and the Commissioner may, at the direction of the HUD Field Office Representative, offer the Property to the second highest bidder for an amount equal to the highest price offered by that bidder. There is no right of redemption, or right of possession based upon a right of redemption, in the mortgagor or others subsequent to a foreclosure completed pursuant to the Act. Therefore, the Foreclosure Commissioner will issue a Deed to the purchaser(s) upon receipt of the entire purchase price in accordance with the terms of the sale as provided herein.

KML LAW GROUP, P.C. Foreclosure Commissioners (215-825-6305)

PORT AUTHORITY OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY d.b.a. PRT

Electronic Proposals will be received online at PRT’s Ebusiness website (http://ebusiness.rideprt.org). Bid submittals will be due 2:00 PM on March 10, 2025 and will be read at 2:15 PM., the same day, the same day, through your web browser via Microsoft Teams video conferencing, for the following: Electronic Proposal - Ebusiness website (http://ebusiness.rideprt.org)

Bid Number

1 B24-26

Bid Name

Cisco DNA Support

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

A Pre-Bid Conference will be held on the above solicitation at 11:00 AM on February 20, 2025 though your web browser via Microsoft Teams video conferencing, attendance at this meeting is not mandatory, but is strongly encouraged.

Teams meeting information is available within the Bid Documents for this solicitation on rideprt.org and eBusiness.rideprt.org. Potential bidders may also email the contract specialist assigned to the solicitation.

Questions regarding any of the above bids will not be entertained by PRT after February 25, 2025.

These contracts may be subject to a financial assistance contract between Port Authority of Allegheny County d.b.a. PRT and the United 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 d.b.a. PRT 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 PRT reserves the right to reject any or all bids.

ALLEGHENY COUNTY AIRPORT AUTHORITY

REQUEST-FOR-QUALIFICATION FOR PROFESSIONAL ARCHITECTURAL AND ENGINEERING DESIGN SERVICES FOR THE QUICK TURNAROUND FACILITY DEVELOPMENT

FEBRUARY 12, 2025 Request-for-Qualification (RFQ) for Professional Architectural and Engineering Design Services for the Quick Turnaround Facility Development will be received via Submittable at https://acaacapitalprograms .submittable.com/ and will be received until 12:00 PM on March 14, 2025 (late submissions will not be accepted), for the following:

Project Summary: The Allegheny County Airport Authority is inviting your organization to submit a Proposal to design a rental car Quick Turnaround (QTA) facility at PIT for the exclusive use by the rental car companies under agreement with the Authority. The proposal also seeks the design of a precast addition to the new concrete garage structure with a minimum 1,200 public parking space deck over top of the proposed QTA facility. Entry and exit to and from this new parking space deck will be via level 2 of the MMC garage utilizing the newly constructed garage ramps. For the more information, including full project description, proposer requirements, proposer responsibilities, proposal requirements, and selection process, please go to:

https://flypittsburgh.com/ acaa-corporate/doing-business/ doingbusiness/

Questions should be directed to Mr. Jeff Bezek, P.E. via email to jbezek@flypittsburgh.com

ADVERTISEMENT

Bids are hereby solicited for the COMMUNITY COLLEGE OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY, 800 Allegheny Avenue, Pittsburgh PA 15233 on the following:

SALE OF SURPLUS EQUIPMENT

250219

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 February 25, 2025, until 2:00 P.M., local prevailing time for:

Administration Building Water Cooler Replacement Plumbing and Electrical Primes

Pittsburgh Brookline Elementary School Air Conditioning Mechanical and Electrical Primes

Pittsburgh Roosevelt Early Childhood Center Finish Floor Replacement and Miscellaneous Work Abatement, General, and Plumbing Primes

Pittsburgh Westinghouse Academy 6-12 Stair Tread Replacement General Prime

Project Manual and Drawings will be available for purchase on Monday February 3,2025, at Modern Reproductions (412488-7700), 127 McKean Street, Pittsburgh, Pa., 15219 between 9:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. The cost of the Project Manual Documents is non-refundable. Project details and dates are described in each project manual.

THE BOARD OF PUBLIC EDUCATION OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PITTSBURGH

Sealed bids will be received in the Bellefield Avenue Lobby, Administration Building, 341 South Bellefield Avenue until 11:00 A.M. prevailing time February 27, 2025 and will be opened at the same hour in the administration building cafeteria: Early Childhood Supplies and Furniture

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) FOR LEASED PARKING FOR HACP HEADQUARTERS VEHICLES

RFP #650-07-25

The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby requests bids from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): Leased Parking for HACP Headquarters Vehicles

The documents will be available no later than February 10, 2025, and signed, sealed proposals will be accepted until 10:00 a.m. on March 4, 2025. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will only accept physical proposals dropped off in person from 8:00 AM until the closing time of 10:00 a.m. on March 4, 2025, in the lobby of One Stop Shop at 412 Boulevard of the Allies. Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Proposals may be uploaded to the Authority’s online submission site, the link is accessible via the HACP website and within the RFP. Sealed proposals may still be mailed via USPS at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 412 Boulevard of the Allies, 6th Floor - Procurement, 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. Brandon Havranek, Associate Director of Procurement/Contracting Officer Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh 412 Boulevard of the Allies 6th FloorProcurement Department Pittsburgh,

Estate of ALBERT E. CHORHERR, JR. deceased of Pittsburgh, PA, No. 00387 of 2025, Albert E. Chorherr III, Admr., 170 Sprague Avenue, Pittsburgh PA 15202 Or to c/o Philip J. Scolieri, Esquire Scolieri Beam Law Group, P.C. Attys. 1207 Fifth Avenue, Suite 200., Pittsburgh, Pa. 15219 LEGAL ADVERTISING Legal Notices

Estate of LENORA P. MARINO, deceased of 7906 Edgewood Avenue, Pittsburgh,

LEGAL ADVERTISING Bids/Proposals

ADVERTISEMENT

Edgewood Borough (Allegheny County, PA) is accepting sealed bids through the Quest Construction Data Network (QuestCDN) at www.questcdn.com until 11am February 27, 2025 for McKAY STREET STORMWATER IMPROVEMENTS. Virtual bid openings at 11am February 27 –Interested parties must contact the Borough for access information prior to the bid opening. Scope of work generally consists of installation of approximately 360’ of storm sewer, connection to existing storm sewers, storm manhole installations, and all necessary appurtenances and restoration for said construction. 10% bid bond required. Subject to Steel Products Procurement Act; Prevailing Wage Act; Public Works Employment Verification Act; Civil Rights Act (Title VI). Bidders must buy Bid Documents ($125) from QuestCDN: 9515222. QuestCDN questions call 952-233-1632 or info@questcdn.com. Direct project technical questions to LSSE. Proposals must be submitted on Borough supplied forms. Borough Council may consider bids at its regular public meeting on March 3, 2025 at 7:30 PM in council chambers at 2 Race Street, PGH PA 15218. The Borough reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive any informalities in the bidding. No bid may be withdrawn for ninety (90) calendar days after the scheduled time for receipt of bids. Rob Zahorchak, Borough Manager.

CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS!

The following surplus equipment will be offered for sale to the highest bidder(s): Functional PCs & Laptops, Functional Monitors, Misc. Functional IT Equipment, Misc. Non-Functional IT Equipment, Chair, Splitting Pan for Occupational Therapy

Due date: 2:00 P.M. Prevailing

Time on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 For more information, contact Michael Cvetic at mcvetic@ccac.edu.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID

NORTH HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS: North Hills School District is requesting bids for Musical Instruments. The District will receive bids at the North Hills Administration Building at 135 Sixth Avenue Pittsburgh PA 15229 for the above instrument until Thursday, February 27, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. e.s.t. Bids shall be submitted to “Attn. Bids” in a sealed envelope labeled “Musical Instruments”. The Bid document appears on the North Hills School District website.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID

NORTH HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT SERVICES: North Hills School District is requesting proposals for Technology Management Services. The District will receive proposals at the North Hills Administration Building at 135 Sixth Avenue Pittsburgh PA 15229 for this request until Monday, March 10, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.

e.s.t. Proposals shall be submitted in a sealed envelope labeled “Attn: RFP”. The Request for Proposals document appears on the North Hills School District website.

General Information regarding bids may be obtained at the Purchasing Office, 341 South Bellefield Avenue, RM 349 Pittsburgh, PA 15213. The bid documents are available on the School District’s Purchasing web site at: www.pghschools.org Click on Our Community; Bid Opportunities; Purchasing - under Quick Links. The Board of Public Education reserves the right to reject any and all bids, or select a single item from any bid.

We are an equal rights and opportunity school district

THE BOARD OF PUBLIC EDUCATION OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PITTSBURGH

Sealed bids will be received in the Bellefield Avenue Lobby, Administration Building, 341 South Bellefield Avenue until 11:00 A.M. prevailing time February 26, 2025 and will be opened at the same hour in the administration building cafeteria: School District Wide Supplies

General Information regarding bids may be obtained at the Purchasing Office, 341 South Bellefield Avenue, RM 349 Pittsburgh, PA 15213. The bid documents are available on the School District’s Purchasing web site at: www.pghschools.org Click on Our Community; Bid Opportunities; Purchasing - under Quick Links. The Board of Public Education reserves the right to reject any and all bids, or select a single item from any bid.

We are an equal rights and opportunity school district

IFB # 300-06-25

The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby requests bids from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): Fire and Security Alarm Monitoring Authority Wide

The documents will be available no later than February 10, 2025, and signed, sealed proposals will be accepted until 10:00 a.m. on March 13, 2025. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will only accept physical proposals dropped off in person from 8:00 AM until the closing time of 10:00 a.m. on March 13, 2025, in the lobby of One Stop Shop at 412 Boulevard of the Allies. Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Proposals may be uploaded to the Authority’s online submission site, the link is accessible via the HACP website and within the RFP. Sealed proposals may still be mailed via USPS at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 412 Boulevard of the Allies, 6th Floor - Procurement, 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. Brandon Havranek, Associate Director of Procurement/Contracting Officer

Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh 412 Boulevard of the Allies 6th FloorProcurement Department Pittsburgh, PA 15219

412-643-2890

A pre-submission meeting will be held via Zoom meeting; on February 26, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Please see the meeting information below: Join Zoom Meeting https://hacp-org.zoom.us/ j/84079096882?pwd=PIkFxB 7JWSabjv7twu5xtBe5Ut5bTi.1

Meeting ID: 840 7909 6882

Passcode: 625446 +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.

Caster D. Binion, Executive Director Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh HACP

JOB OPPORTUNITIES Help Wanted POLICE OFFICER

BOROUGH OF BELLEVUE

The Civil Service Commission of the Borough of Bellevue will offer competitive written and oral examinations for a certified list of applicants for the position of Police Officer. Applications for the position may be obtained at the Bellevue Borough Building located at 537 Bayne Avenue, Bellevue, Pennsylvania 15202 between the hours of 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM Monday through Friday, holidays excepted. Completed applications will be accepted by the Administration Office at the Bellevue Borough Building beginning Tuesday, February 18, 2025 and must be returned no later than Friday, March 14, 2025 Qualified applicants will be notified by USPS of the date, time, and location of the written examination. No late applications will be accepted.

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR AUTO DETAILING OF HOUSING AUTHORITY CITY OF PITTSBURGH VEHICLES

IFB #850-08-25

The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby requests bids from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s):

Auto Detailing of Housing Authority City of Pittsburgh Vehicles

The documents will be available no later than February 10, 2025, and signed, sealed bids will be accepted until 11:00 a.m. on March 13, 2025. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will only accept physical bids dropped off in person from 8:00 AM until the closing time of 11:00 a.m. on March 13, 2025, in the lobby of One Stop Shop at 412 Boulevard of the Allies. 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 412 Boulevard of the Allies, 6th Floor Procurement, 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. Brandon Havranek, Associate Director of Procurement/ Contracting Officer Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh 412 Boulevard of the Allies 6th Floor - Procurement Department Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-643-2890

A pre-bid meeting will be held via Zoom meeting; on February 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Please see the meeting information below:

Join Zoom Meeting https://hacp-org.zoom.us/ j/83508391943?pwd=Tr9bJjEc 9qH4b9WKfbV0dXzWgurqoT.1

Meeting ID: 835 0839 1943 Passcode: 271764 +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.

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

JOB OPPORTUNITIES Help Wanted

MT. LEBANON, PA

POLICE OFFICER TESTING

MT. LEBANON POLICE DEPARTMENT

will be conducting a physical agility and written exam for POLICE OFFICER on Saturday, March 22, 2025.

Starting salary of $77,974 annually ($61,308 for police academy cadet) Must be a U.S. citizen; 21 years of age at hire; bachelor’s degree from accredited college/university at hire; pass physical, written, oral exams plus a comprehensive background investigation.

Full test requirements, description and application may be obtained at www.mtlebanon.org/employment.

Deadline to apply is 4:00 pm, March 7, 2025.

Mt. Lebanon is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law.

Mt. Lebanon makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time. Reasonable accommodations for the needs of applicants with disabilities will be made upon request to the Human Resource Office at jaquino@mtlebanon.org or 412343-3625.

Pittsburgh Regional Transit is seeking a Marketing Associate to provide support to management with marketing pass sales, projects, and events for Port Authority of Allegheny County d/b/a Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT). Supports the development and coordination of internal and external special events. Represents PRT at community events and department meetings, as needed. Assists in the planning/ development of internal and external marketing/awareness campaigns and promotions. Coordinates distribution of materials and supports other efforts for marketing programs. Coordinates purchase of company -branded apparel and other promotional products. Supports PRT’s community sponsorships and donations program.

Essential Functions:

• Administer program-related tasks for marketing initiatives including PRTs On the Move and Job Perks programs. Responsibilities include responding to inquiries and providing information to help secure participation.

• Assists in updating and scheduling social media content as well as creation of media for marketing messaging on both social media and through PRT information channels. This includes brainstorming ideas for social media campaigns and the PRT blog as well as writing content for both internal and external publication. Examples of promotion include new fare media, rider rewards highlights, employee recognition, and promotion of marketing events and programs.

• Participates in various committees including PRTs Sponsorship Committee. Tasks could include preparing for the committee’s monthly meetings, securing sponsor details, contacting approved sponsorships and submit program ads, logos, and event attendee names as needed. Also maintains the annual approved sponsorship list and assists in scheduling PRT staff to attend sponsorship events.

Job requirements include:

• High school diploma or GED.

• Bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications, journalism, marketing, or related field from an accredited college or university.

• Minimum of two (2) years’ experience in marketing, business, or advertising. No certifications or licenses required.

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

• Effective and professional communication skills with all levels of employees including executive level management.

• Ability to work evenings and weekends if required for special events.

Preferred attributes:

• Knowledge of PRT’s various modes of transportation and services.

• Ability to work well in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities.

We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Interested candidates should forward a cover letter (with salary requirements) and resume to:

Glenn Huetter Employment Department 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 GHuetter@RidePRT.org EOE

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Pittsburgh Regional Transit is seeking a Drug & Alcohol Compliance Coordinator to support Port Authority of Allegheny County d/b/a Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT)’s Drug Alcohol Program Manager with implementing the federally mandated Drug & Alcohol Compliance Program. This employee will serve as the company’s back-up to the Designated Employer Representative (DER).

Essential Functions:

· Supports the activities of FTA & FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Compliance Program which includes but is not limited to:

o Participate in the development and administration of drug and alcohol testing agreements.

o Reports all results, including refusals to test, to supervisors.

o Conduct drug and alcohol awareness training for all employees and Supervisor Drug and Alcohol Training.

o Responsible for comprehensive knowledge of regulations, such as 49 CFR parts 40, 655, and 382 DOT CFT part 40. Maintains awareness of federal regulations and guidelines related to drug and alcohol testing. Revises PRT’s Drug and Alcohol policy and procedures to comply with all regulatory changes/ revisions. Assures that current and legal information pertaining to drug and alcohol is disseminated to responsible parties.

o Scheduling Random and Follow-up Testing.

o Completing DOT Drug and Alcohol verifications.

Job requirements include:

· BA/BS degree in Business Administration, Human Resources Management, Psychology, Social Work or related field with Behavioral or Medical Science from an accredited school. Experience may be substituted for the education on a year-foryear basis.

· Minimum of three (3) years of experience in Department of Transportation (DOT) drug and alcohol compliance auditor, or FMCSA compliance specialist, or Medical Review Officer Assistant/DOT drug and alcohol collector.

· Effective and professional communication skills.

· Classroom instruction and training experience.

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

· Rotating on call availability 24-hours-a-day.

Preferred attributes:

· Minimum of two (2) years performing as a Designated Employer Representative.

· Knowledge and understanding of Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations.

· Professional Certification for Drug collector, Breath Alcohol Technician, Designated Employer Representative, or Medical Review Officer Assistant.

· Experience using Drugpak software or FMCSA Clearinghouse database.

We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Interested candidates should forward a cover letter (with salary requirements) and resume to:

Amy Giammanco

Employment Department 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 AGiammanco@RidePRT.org EOE