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Community demands speed bumps after boy’s death Page A8

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A DREAM FULFILLED State-of-the-art facility for the arts in Hill District is now open

by Rob Taylor Jr. Courier Staff Writer

Inside, African American students had their acting skills on full display, practicing a performance complete with props, lights, and music.

Outside, there was a celebration, a ribbon-cutting, of the $4 million expansion and renovation of the Kaufmann Center, smackdab in the middle of the Hill District, where arts is king.

Tyian Battle, the founder of the organization ACH Clear Pathways, founded in honor of her late son, Amon C. Harris, was in awe of all the people who showed up for this occasion. But what the people, the elected officials, the residents all knew was how important it was to have a state-of-theart building for the arts for young people.

“I don’t know about the rest of you, but I wasn’t exposed to the arts, and music, and painting at a young

age,” expressed state Sen. Wayne Fontana, during the July 22 grand opening.

“The young folks in this community and all around here can be. They can be exposed to the arts like a lot of us never were, and that’s going to make a difference in those kids’ lives.”

Senator Fontana added: “As those kids come through this facility, they will begin to see a ‘clear pathway.’”

Battle has said that her son loved martial arts, and martial arts, along with theatre, acting, dance, music, poetry, digital media and more are offered to kids via ACH Clear Pathways. ACH Clear Pathways bought the Kaufmann Center, next to the Hill House on Centre Avenue, in 2020, and held a groundbreaking at that time to expand the center by some 2,700 square feet for a digital media studio, art studio, SEE HILL DISTRICT A8

TYIAN BATTLE, second from right, and others help cut the ribbon to celebrate the grand opening of the renovated Kaufmann Center, on Centre Avenue in the Hill District, July 22. It’s a place where people, particularly young people, can learn arts and other programs. (Photo

by Rob Taylor Jr.)

SOARING TO NEW HEIGHTS Black youth taken on helicopter ride as they learn aeronautics, aviation

by Rob Taylor Jr. Courier Staff Writer

On Wednesday, July 27, fifteen youths from the Pittsburgh area were taken to new heights.

Literally.

The students, who are part of the Schenley Heights Community Development Program, were taken on a helicopter excursion in Finleyville (Washington County), as the youths are also part of M-PowerHouse’s aeronautical program. The helicopter was provided by Pittsburgh Heli.

“We believe in mirror emulating,” said M-PowerHouse’s founder, president

and CEO, Terry Smith.

“To see someone who looks like you in a non-traditional field not only builds self-esteem, but inspires, and aspires one to examine varied aeronautical careers they may have never been exposed to.”

M-PowerHouse introduces youth to drone technology, and the field of aeronautics—from drones, planes and helicopters, to spaceships. This summer, 40 students took part in the drone program; all will be getting certificates and their own drone during a graduation-style ceremony SEE AVIATION A6

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PITTSBURGH STUDENTS FLEW IN A HELICOPTER AS THEY LEARNED ABOUT AERONAUTICS AND AVIATION, JULY 27.

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This Week In Black History

A Courier Staple •AUGUST 3

(Photo: iStockphoto / NNPA)

Study finds nearly 90 percent of Black homicide victims were killed with guns

by Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

According to a new and comprehensive study on gun violence, Black men, women, boys, and girls remain the most impacted victims of homicide in America, yet year after year this shocking and unacceptable toll is allowed to continue.

The study published by the Washington, D.C.-based Violence Policy Center, revealed that in 2019, the United States recorded 7,441 Black homicide victims.

African Americans represent 14 percent of the U.S. population, but accounted for 52 percent of all homicide victims, the study authors found.

The annual study, Black Homicide Victimization in the United States: An Analysis of 2019 Homicide Data, also ranks the states according to their Black homicide victimization rates.

Officials said it’s based on unpublished data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation Supplementary Homicide Report.

The study details homicide rates for 2019, the most recent year for which comprehensive national data is available.

For homicides in which authorities could identify the weapon used, 88 percent of Black victims (6,190 out of 7,056) were shot and killed with guns.

Of those, 64 percent (3,935 victims) were killed with handguns.

On average, more than 20 Black Americans died each day from homicide—17 were known to have died from gunshots.

“These deaths almost always involve a gun, and the resulting devastation ravages families, friends, and community members,” Violence Policy Center Executive Director Josh Sugarmann stated in a news release.

“The goal of our research is to help support advocates and organizations working on the ground to stop this lethal violence while, at the same time, continuing to educate and engage the public and policymakers on the need to address this ongoing national crisis,” Sugarmann said.

The study also revealed that the Black homicide victimization rate in the United States was nearly four times the overall national victimization rate and nearly seven times the white homicide victimization rate.

In 2019, the Black homicide victimization rate was 18.08 per 100,000.

In comparison, the overall national homicide victimization rate was 4.79 per 100,000. For Whites, the national homicide victimization rate was 2.69 per 100,000.

Further, 87 percent of Black homicide victims were male (6,454 of 7,441) and 13 percent were female (986 of 7,441).

The sex of one victim wasn’t unknown.

The authors noted that Black male homicide victimization rate in the United States was “more than four times the overall male victimization rate and more than eight times the White male homicide victimization rate.”

In 2019, the homicide victimization rate for Black male victims was 32.49 per 100,000.

In comparison, the overall rate for male homicide victims was 7.68 per 100,000 and the rate for White male homicide victims was 3.88 per 100,000.

Meanwhile, the Black female homicide victimization rate in the United States was more than twice the overall female victimization rate and three times the White female homicide victimization rate.

In 2019, the homicide victimization rate for Black female victims was 4.60

per 100,000. In comparison, the overall rate for female homicide victims was 1.95 per 100,000 and the rate for White female homicide victims was 1.52 per 100,000.

For homicides in which the victim to offender relationship could be identified, 77 percent of Black victims (2,282 out of 2,954) were killed by someone they knew.

The number of victims killed by strangers was 672.

For homicides in which the circumstances could be identified, 70 percent (2,856 out of 4,102) were not related to the commission of any other felony.

Of these, 56 percent (1,591 homicides) involved arguments between the victim and the offender.

With a homicide rate of 50.64 per 100,000 residents, Missouri ranked the highest.

Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Tennessee, Louisiana, Kentucky, Arkansas, Michigan, and Oklahoma rounded out the top 10.

The authors said individuals living in communities where violence is prevalent are at higher risk for a broad range of negative health and behavior outcomes.

An increased understanding of how trauma resulting from community violence influences development, health, and behavior can lead to improvements in the way many social services are delivered as well as policy changes at the local and federal levels.

“At the same time, the firearms industry, looking to expand beyond its shrinking base of White male gun owners, has launched an organized marketing campaign focusing on Black and Latino Americans,” the study authors wrote.

“If successful, such efforts can only increase gun death and injury in these communities.”

The full study is available at http://vpc.org/studies/ blackhomicide22.pdf.

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1928—The Atlanta Daily World begins publication as the first Black daily newspaper in modern times. It was founded by William A. Scott III. Amazingly, the first Black daily newspaper in history—the New Orleans Tribune—was founded one year before the end of slavery in 1864.

•AUGUST 4

1901—Legendary Jazz trumpeter Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong is born in New Orleans, La. Abandoned by his desperately poor parents, he was for a while a ward of the state. But by 1922, he followed the migration of Blacks to the North and ended up in Chicago where his Jazz skills really began to develop. Armstrong was frequently criticized for trying too hard to please his White audiences. Song stylist Billie Holliday once said of him, “Sure Satchmo toms but he toms from the heart.”

Nevertheless, he would later become a major financial backer of Dr. Martin Luther King and the Civil Rights Movement. In addition in 1957, he backed out of a State Department sponsored tour of the then Soviet Union declaring, “The way they are treating my people in the South, the government can go to hell!”

Armstrong would die on July 6, 1971.

1931—Pioneering physician Dr. Daniel Hale Williams dies. The Pennsylvania born Williams was a principle founder of Chicago’s Provident Hospital and helped train many of the nation’s early Black doctors and nurses. But he is probably best known for performing America’s first successful open heart surgery. His patient—a young Black man named James Cornish—would live for another 20 years after the surgery.

1964—The bodies of three civil rights workers are found on a farm near Philadelphia, Miss. The three (one Black and two Whites) were participating in “Freedom Summer”—when thousands of people journeyed south to participate in the Civil Rights Movement and help Blacks register to vote. James Chaney, Andrew Goodman and Michael Schwerner were kidnapped on June 21 and killed the same night. Eighteen White men, including several law enforcement officers were indicted for the killings but only seven were convicted.

One of the ringleaders, a local minister named Edgar Allen Killen, would not be found guilty until June 21, 2005 after the case had been re-opened. Ironically, Killen was found guilty of manslaughter 41 years to the day that the three civil rights workers were killed. The murders of Chaney, Goodman and Schwerner helped galvanize support for the Civil Rights Movement by turning much of the nation against the terrorist-type tactics being employed by those opposed to it. Ironically, Philadelphia, Miss., elected its first Black mayor in May 2009.

•AUGUST 5

1865—President Andrew Johnson reverses an order giving land abandoned or confiscated from slave-owning Whites to former Black slaves. The order—Special Field Order #15—had been issued in January by conquering Union Major General William T. Sherman as he and his troops marched through the South.

Over 40,000 ex-slaves had received over 400,000 acres of land in South Carolina, Georgia and Florida. But after Lincoln was assassinated, Johnson reversed the order and returned the land to the Whites. Johnson, a Southerner, did much to reverse the policies of Lincoln and stifle progress for Blacks.

Indeed, an argument can be made that President Johnson had a more negative post-Civil War impact on Black progress than any president in American history.

•AUGUST 6

1870—In one of the most brazenly racist incidents of the post-Civil War period, White conservatives and racists employ assassinations and widespread violence to suppress the Black vote and take control of the Tennessee legis­ lative from a coalition of Blacks and progressive Whites. The violence and the election effectively ended Reconstruction in the state.

1941—Blacks started being inducted into the U.S. military around April of 1941 and one result was a series of violent incidents between Black soldiers and White soldiers and between Black soldiers and White civilians. The first major incident takes place on this day in August of 1941. A group of Black soldiers board a bus in Fayetteville, N.C., headed to Ft. Bragg. The White driver complains they are being “rowdy” and asks for help from Military Police (MPs). The

MPs arrive and began hitting the Blacks with nightsticks. One of the Blacks grabs an MP’s gun and begins shooting.

Additional fighting and shooting break out. When the dust settled, one Black private and one White MP were dead and two Whites and three Blacks had been wounded.

1965—President Lyndon Johnson signs the Voting Rights Act which was designed to guarantee the right of African-Americans to vote. The Act ended a wide range of discriminatory voting practices in the South including literacy tests. The Act was probably the most significant piece of civil rights legislation ever passed. It was renewed for another 25 years in July of 2006. It was weakened a bit by a 2009 U.S. Supreme Court decision but remains in effect.

•AUGUST 7

1970—Four people, including the presiding judge, are killed during a courthouse shootout in Marin County, Calif. A group of Blacks led by 17-yearold Jonathan Jackson stage an assault on the courthouse in a bid to free Jackson’s brother—famed Soledad Brother and militant activist George Jackson.

Jonathan was among those who died.

Professor and communist ­Angela Davis was charged with providing the guns for the bloody escape attempt but she would later be found not guilty.

•AUGUST 8

1865—Explorer Matthew Henson is born in Baltimore, Md. Henson would become the first person to reach the North Pole on April 6, 1909. However, it was his boss Robert E. Perry who would receive widespread public recognition and a presidential citation for the honor. But in later years, records would show that Henson actually beat Perry to the top of the world. Henson would comment that when Perry discovered that he had beat him to the North Pole, he became “hopping mad.” Years would pass before Henson would gain some recognition for his accomplishment. Nevertheless, to this day, most history books still continue to give the honor to Perry.

•AUGUST 9

1936—Sprinting sensation Jesse Owens wins a total of four Gold Medals at the Olympics in Berlin, Germany.

Born in Lawrence County, Ala., Owens gained international fame for his victories in the 100 meters, the 200 meters, the long jump and the 4?100 meter relay. His victories undermined Adolph Hitler’s claims of White, especially German, superiority over all other peoples.

However, Owens disputed claims that the Nazi leader was so infuriated with him that he refused to shake his hand.

According to Owens, during his only encounter with Hitler, “the Chancellor waved and I waved back.” The packa-day cigarette smoker died at the relatively young age of 66 on March 31, 1980.

1963—Whitney Houston, one of the greatest singers of the past 50 years, was born on this day in Newark, N.J. Whitney Elizabeth Houston was born into a family of accomplished singers.

Her mother was Thelma Houston—an excellent gospel and R&B performer and her cousin was song stylist Dionne Warwick. During her heyday in the 1980s, Houston sold approximately 170 million albums including such hits as “You Give Good Love,” “Saving All My Love for You,” “How Will I Know?” and “The Greatest Love of All.” The singer was found dead in the bathtub of her Beverly Hilton Hotel room on Feb. 11, 2012, hours before a pre-Grammy party. She was 48.

1987—Lawyer and entrepreneur Reginald Lewis completes the largest business acquisition ever accomplished by an African American when he purchases Beatrice Foods in a leveraged buyout for $985 million. Under his leadership, the firm would soon become the first Black-owned company to achieve more than $1 billion in annual sales.

Lewis made the Forbes magazine list of the 400 richest Americans in 1992 with an estimated net worth of $400 million. Unfortunately, the Baltimore, Md., native would die of brain cancer at the age of 50 on Jan. 19, 1993. His contribution to telling Blacks how to achieve economic success came in his book entitled “Why Should White Guys Have All the Fun?”

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Basketball great Bill Russell dies at 88

by Stacy M. Brown NNPA Senior National Correspondent

Boston Celtics Legend Bill Russell, one of professional basketball’s greatest players and the sport’s most crowned champion, died on Sunday, July 31, at age 88.

Russell, who won 11 NBA titles as a player and two as a player-coach, died “peacefully” with his wife, Jeannine, at his side, a statement on social media said.

Jeannine said funeral arrangements are pending.

“But for all the winning, Bill’s understanding of the struggle is what illuminated his life. From boycotting a 1961 exhibition game to unmask too-long-tolerated discrimination, to leading Mississippi’s first integrated basketball camp in the combustible wake of Medgar Evans’ assassination, to decades of activism ultimately recognized by his receipt of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, Bill called out injustice with an unforgiving candor that he intended would disrupt the status quo, and with a powerful example that, though never his humble intention, will forever inspire teamwork, selflessness, and thoughtful change,” the statement read.

It continued: “Bill’s wife, Jeannine, and his many friends and family thank you for keeping Bill in your prayers. Perhaps you’ll relive one or two of the golden moments he gave us or recall his trademark laugh as he delighted in explaining the real story behind how those moments unfolded.

“And we hope each of us can find a new way to act or speak up with Bill’s uncompromising, dignified, and always constructive commitment to principle. That would be one last and lasting win for our beloved #6.”

President Barack Obama presented the Medal of Freedom in 2011, and Russell won five NBA Most Valuable Player awards.

He made the All-Star team in 12 of the 13 years he played in the league. The prolific big man finished his career in 1969 with 21,620 career rebounds, an average of 22.5 per game, and led the league in rebounding four times.

He grabbed 51 rebounds in one game, 49 in two others, and a dozen consecutive seasons of 1,000 or more rebounds.

Many viewed Russell as the greatest player in history until Michael Jordan arrived in the 1980s and 1990s and Lebron James in the 2000s.

Born in Monroe, Louisiana, in 1934, Russell’s family moved to the San Francisco area, where he attended McClymonds High School in Oakland.

He earned a scholarship to play at the University of San Francisco and helped lead the basketball school to an astounding 56 straight wins and back-toback NCAA titles.

As noted by ESPN, Russell was most visible as a color commentator on televised basketball games for CBS with Rick Barry.

Russell later explained in a newspaper article that he never found a comfort zone behind the microphone.

“The most successful television is done in eight-second thoughts, and the things I know about basketball, motivation, and people go deeper than that,” Russell told the Sacramento Bee. In 1974, Russell earned election to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. In 1980, he was voted Greatest Player in the History of the NBA by the Professional Basketball Writers Association of America.

He was part of the 75th Anniversary Team announced by the NBA in October 2021.

Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., president and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association, shared the following in a statement releases after learning of Russell’s passing: “The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) salutes the memory and outstanding legacy of Bill Russell. He was the greatest on the NBA basketball court and he was also one of the strongest voices across the nation and world who advocated for freedom justice and equality. The NNPA extends our condolences to the Russell family.”

Balancing our net income with our gross habits...

Read about it from personal finance guru Damon Carr on page B1.

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SOARING TO NEW HEIGHTS

Black youth taken on helicopter ride as they learn aeronautics, aviation AVIATION FROM A1

on Thursday, Aug. 4.

“The youths’ use of flight simulators, and hands-on experience challenges one’s critical-thinking process,” Smith said. “M-PowerHouse Chair, Paula K. Davis, stresses the importance of transferable skills to meet the future workforce needs of the 21st century.”

When it comes to African Americans in the aeronautics arena, Bessie Coleman first comes to mind. She was the first African American woman to earn a pilot’s license, in 1921. She went to flight school in France, then returned to the U.S., stunt flying to

earn income. Emory C. Malick, by the way, was the first African American man to earn a pilot’s license in the U.S., in 1912.

Then there was Eugene Bullard, one of the few Black combat pilots during World War I and is largely recognized as the first African American military pilot.

Cornelius Coffey was the first African American certified aircraft mechanic in the U.S. A profile from the National Aviaton Academy said that in 1938, Coffey established the first African American-owned and certified flight school, called “The Coffey School of Aeronautics.” It was located at

Harlem Airport in Oaklawn, Ill. From 1938 to 1945, more than 1,500 Black students went through the school; some of those students eventually formed the original Tuskegee Airmen.

Marlon Green was the first Black commercial airline pilot in 1963, and Jill Brown-Hiltz was the first Black woman pilot to fly for a major U.S. commercial airline, 15 years later.

While Green was the first Black commercial airline pilot in an employed capacity, he wasn’t the first Black person to earn their commercial pilot’s license. That distinction belongs to the “Father of Black Aviation,” Charles

Alfred Anderson.

According to a bio in the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, the Tuskegee Institute hired Anderson in 1940 as its chief flight instructor to develop its pilot training program. The U.S. Army Air Corps awarded Tuskegee the contract to provide primary flight training in February 1941. He was the chief instructor for the famed Tuskegee Airmen, and also served as a mentor.

In March 1941, Eleanor Roosevelt, the U.S. First Lady at the time, visited the Tuskegee Institute, in Alabama. Anderson flew her around the school.

“This short flight, considered by most people at

TERRY SMITH, M-POWERHOUSE PRESIDENT/CEO the time to be very daring,” read the bio in the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, “brought media attention to the program, demonstrated that Blacks could fly planes, and showed that the Tuskegee program had the First Lady’s complete trust and support.”

Smith said during the eight-week drone program, students learned about weather, climate change, basic math angles, how to land planes and other Black notables in aeronautics and aviation, like Mae Jemison, the first Black woman to travel into space in 1992.

It’s more than possible that some of the students in the M-PowerHouse program will follow in some of the aforementioned Black aviation pioneers’ footsteps. Smith, along with other African Americans who lead organizations geared to assisting young people, believe to no end that exposing students to new careers, avenues and possibilities translate into success.

M-PowerHouse of Greater Pittsburgh has partnered with Alicia

George, Executive Director of the Schenley Heights Community Development Program for the past two years.

Schenley Heights Community Development Program’s mission is to nurture, support and develop the community through wholesome programs that address the academic, moral, cultural, health, and recreational needs of the children, youth and their families in the Hill District and around Pittsburgh.

As for that helicopter ride that all 15 students who went to Finleyville experienced? “They were screaming, excited, an adrenaline rush,” Smith told the Courier about the students’ reactions.

“Some of the kids were actually saying they want to do it again, they can’t wait until next year. The goal is to get them excited, not just about aeronautics but just education at-large.

Think outside the box and realize there is no box...never has been.

The sky is the limit.”

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A BIG HONOR FOR SLY JOCK

WAMO REUNION—TAYLOR DIAZ, SLY JOCK, BROTHER MARLON MARTIN

SLY JOCK WAVES TO THE CROWD AS HE’S HONORED IN DOWNTOWN PITTSBURGH, JULY 16.

(PHOTOS BY J.L. MARTELLO)

Legendary WAMO DJ and on-air personality Sly Jock was honored for his decades of service to the Pittsburgh community during the Black Music Festival, July 16, at Point State Park. He received a proclamation from the City of Pittsburgh, as thou-

sands cheered for the man who entertained listeners as the morning personality for much of the ‘90s and early 2000s. Prior to morning radio, Sly Jock also did overnights and hosted a popular Sunday night show.

“It’s well-deserved,” said

his daughter, Kiki Brown, herself a radio personality on WAMO 107.3. “It’s good to witness him getting his flowers now and he should know how much the city loves him, and I love him, too.”

- Rob Taylor Jr.

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A DREAM FULFILLED

The renovated, expanded Kaufmann Center is now open HILL DISTRICT FROM A1

and other amenities, which includes a ramp for those who don’t want to walk up the “Rocky (movie) steps,” as Battle called them.

A number of the speakers during the ribbon-cutting ceremony spoke of the vision that Battle saw for the Kaufmann Center, including its expansion, that no one else could see at first. Senator Fontana didn’t see it at first. Others couldn’t see how she would be able to raise the money for the expansion.

Chief of Staff for Mayor Ed Gainey, Jake Wheatley, said at the event that Battle’s dream “was something that wasn’t easy to materialize.”

Early on in the process, Battle felt she was getting the “run-around” from people when it came to funding the Kaufmann Center expansion.

Wheatley, who for nearly two decades was the state representative in the Hill District, told her: “Sometimes, when you’re doing work in communities that have been traumatized, there are people who are traumatized, too.

So you can’t let the traumas that they have stop a dream that you want to do.”

Wheatley said Battle took that to heart.

“This is somebody (Battle) who had a dream and walked that dream into reality,” Wheatley continued. He made sure to tell the crowd that he wouldn’t rush through his comments, because “Ty is like a little sister,” and he knows how much she persevered for the center’s expansion. “She didn’t have money, she didn’t come from money, she didn’t have political connections, but she had a lot of people who believed in her spirit.”

For parents, like Wheatley, there is now a dedicat-

BILL STRICKLAND, TYIAN BATTLE, FRANCO HARRIS, ROGER HUMPHRIES (PHOTO BY ROB TAYLOR JR.) ed place, the Kaufmann Center, where youth can be exposed to the arts, right in their backyard.

Studies have shown how exposing a young person to a new thing often leads to that child taking a vested interest in it.

That student is then less likely to spend free time on negative activities, and more time with that new hobby. There are even times where that student makes that hobby his profession. Battle told the Courier that you never know, a student presently in the program

or in the future could become the next George Benson or August Wilson.

“As a working parent, in the summer, I need somewhere where I can have people who will nurture my kids, understand my kids’ circumstances and they’re going to make sure they get exposed to positivity,” Wheatley said.

The expansion cost was originally $1.5 million, but it ballooned to $4 million. The state of Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development supported the expansion with $2 million in funding.

“ACH’s work with Pitts-

burgh’s youth has been nothing short of astounding over the years,” Neil Weaver, acting secretary of the department, said at the July 22 event. “Tyian and her team have been spreading the love of the arts to so many kids that otherwise would not have access to things like a dance studio or musical instruments.

But it’s about so much more than just creating art. It’s about creating opportunities for these kids and in turn building the community. The arts are essential to the Hill District’s rich history, and ACH Clear Pathways brings that history

into the present. And by instilling passion for the arts into young people, it’s bringing it into the future as well.”

“Today feels like history,” Battle told the New Pittsburgh Courier at the ribbon-cutting. “I feel so inspired to continue to work...foundations believed in me to take ownership of a community asset. They could have picked anyone but they chose ACH, and this is what we do, artistic programming.”

State Rep. Aerion Abney, whose district includes the Hill, was on hand, as well. He also sees the renovated Kaufmann

Center as a big plus for the community and the youth. But both Abney and Battle pointed out that the artistic programming that will be taught at the Kaufmann Center will soon be open to seniors, too.

No experience in the arts is needed for people to be part of the programming, Battle said.

“This is where it starts,” she said.

After the ribbon-cutting, people began filing into the Kaufmann Center, some standing in amazement watching the kids practice their performances in the Elsie Hillman Auditorium.

Macedonia Church of Pittsburgh Senior Pastor Brian J. Edmonds took a tour with Battle through the Kaufmann Center’s multiple floors.

“This is a fulfillment of a dream that has come to life through faith,” he told the Courier. “Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen, so you’ve gotta see some things before you actually see them come to pass.

I think Tyian embodies that and this center is a picture that it can actually happen.”

THE COURIER ISN’T JUST A NEWSPAPER. IT’S BLACK HISTORY.

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JAKE WHEATLEY, NOW MAYOR ED GAINEY’S CHIEF OF STAFF, PRAISED TYIAN BATTLE FOR HER TIRELESS EFFORTS TO MAKE THE KAUFMANN CENTER EXPANSION HAPPEN. (PHOTOS BY ROB TAYLOR JR.)

TERRI BALTIMORE SPEAKS AT THE JULY 22 RIBBON-CUTTING...

TYIAN BATTLE WITH MACEDONIA CHURCH OF PITTSBURGH SENIOR PASTOR BRIAN J. EDMONDS.

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Praise & Worship ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CATHOLIC CHURCH 91 Crawford Street Pgh., PA 15219 412-281-3141 Sunday Mass 11 AM Rev. Thomas J. Burke- Pastor

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THIS ‘DIDN’T HAVE TO HAPPEN’ Vigil for 6-year-old held; community says speed bumps should have been in place long ago

Rev. C. Matthew HawkinsParochial Vicar Rev. David H. TaylorSenior Parochial Vicar. www.sbtmparishpgh.com

by Rob Taylor Jr. Courier Staff Writer

East Liberty Presbyterian Church Rev. Patrice Fowler-Searcy and Rev. Heather Schoenewolf Pastors 412-441-3800

Worship in person or Online on Facebook/YouTube www.ELPC.church Summer Worship.......10:00 a.m.

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

Join our growing Praise and Worship Church Community!

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

There was one child missing Sunday evening, July 31, from the pickup football game on the grass near Johnston Avenue, in Hazelwood.

And if you ask Saundra Cole McKamey, the death of 6-year-old Jamel Austin “didn’t have to happen.”

Austin was struck by a vehicle around 8 p.m. on July 26 on Johnston Avenue. He died about an hour later. The driver of the vehicle stayed at the scene, and Pittsburgh Police are still trying to determine whether charges will be filed.

A vigil and balloon release was held for Austin on July 31. Reverend Michael Murray of Second Baptist Church in McKees Rocks led a prayer with the kids who were present—the kids repeated the prayer as Rev. Murray spoke it.

“I wanted them to start envisioning that they can dream,” Rev. Murray told the New Pittsburgh Courier. “Too many children don’t get to that place anymore, and some of the dreaming will keep them out of areas that they would not be in once they start realizing that it’s true. Some of them are going to remember that prayer, even if it’s just the part that says, ‘God, I’m a kid, help me.’”

McKamey, who is with the organization P.O.O.R.L.A.W., which stands for People of Origin Rightfully Loved and Wanted, led the balloon release.

But that wasn’t all. Following the vigil, McKamey and another member of P.O.O.R.L.A.W., James Cole, who serves as program coordinator for the Hazelwood Cobras Youth Development Program, blasted city officials for not acting fast enough to get speed bumps in the Hazelwood/ Glen Hazel area.

“We have within a six-block radius, three playgrounds, three basketball courts, a full football field, a tennis court, an after-school program, summer camp, and a school, and we also have subsidized housing which has (many) single parent homes,” Cole told the Courier’s J.L. Martello. “I’m a little angry because I’ve been speaking on this, I’ve been having the community call 311,” demanding that speed bumps be placed along Johnston Avenue.

“All of this stuff, and still nothing,” Cole said.

“But if we go to our sister neighborhood, Squirrel Hill, if you go to any of their schools, you find speed bumps. When we complain about it, we get nothing. Now I have a kid (from the program) who is gone because of the negligence of these people like (City Councilman) Corey O’Connor and (Mayor) Ed Gainey, who promised us that they’re going to help and do the things that we need done in our community, but didn’t. We have a child who’s gone because they’re not putting things in place to keep our kids safe.”

“We have been asking

TELL US ABOUT YOUR NEXT CHURCH EVENT! We want to place your event in

BETTY ROBINSON, RIGHT, HOLDS A COLLAGE of photos of Jamel Austin, the 6-year-old hit by a car in Hazelwood on July 26. (Photos by J.L. Martello) Corey O’Connor for years to get us speed bumps up and down Johnston Avenue, Mansion Street, Glenwood Avenue, wherever our kids go to school or there’s a lot of traffic,” McKamey added. “We have one sign that says ‘Speed Limit 25’ and ‘children’ but we don’t

have anything in this area (of Johnston) where all the children are.”

Cole described Austin as a kid who was “full of life,” with a “beautiful smile.”

Councilman O’Connor recently left City Council to become Allegheny County Controller.

“Do your job,” Cole said, directed to the officials.

“You’re supposed to be here doing stuff for the people and we know what we need. This should be first priority on your list.

You’re supposed to be helping the people. Do your job. Period.”

6-YEAR-OLD JAMEL AUSTIN

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“But the Fruit of the Spirit is Love, Joy, Peace, Longsuffering, Gentleness, Goodness, Faith, Meekness, Temperance, against such there is no law.”

- Galatians 5:22-23 REV. WALKER SAYS: One Fruit of the Spirit with 9 attributes, and the first attribute is love. As Children of God, we are to have all nine sections.

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ADULT JAMES COLE, BACK ROW, CENTER, WITH KIDS FROM THE HAZELWOOD COMMUNITY. ALL WERE PRESENT FOR JAMEL AUSTIN’S VIGIL, HELD JULY 31.

A VIGIL WAS HELD IN MEMORY OF JAMEL AUSTIN IN HAZELWOOD, JULY 31. HE WAS STRUCK BY A CAR ON JULY 26 AND LATER DIED. (PHOTOS BY J.L. MARTELLO)

A GROWING MEMORIAL FOR JAMEL AUSTIN, THE 6-YEAR-OLD HIT BY A CAR ON JOHNSTON AVENUE, JULY 26.

SAUNDRA COLE MCKAMEY

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ACCORDING TO THE BROOKINGS INSTITUTE, the median wealth of a White household is $188,200, which is 7.8 times more than the average Black household at $24,100.

Inflation slamming Black America hard as families struggle with necessities

by Stacy M. Brown For New Pittsburgh Courier

NNPA NEWSWIRE— Black households are more exposed to inflation fluctuations than their White peers, according to a study published by the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis.

The differences, while not overwhelming, are not trivial either, the study authors wrote.

For example, if prices paid by White households increase by 7 percent over a year, calculations by researchers suggest that one may expect them to

increase by 7.5 percent for Black families.

“In our research, we examine how this informs the trade-off between inflation and unemployment stabilization for White and Black households,” the study authors explained.

“The result implies that when evaluating tradeoffs between inflation and unemployment, one ought to keep in mind that the costs of inflation may be borne disproportionately by the more disadvantaged group.”

With gas, food, and other prices rising, the authors concluded that necessities

such as groceries, electricity, and wireless phone service make up a larger

ing a more significant portion of their income on goods and services with

With gas, food, and other prices rising, the authors concluded that necessities such as groceries, electricity, and wireless phone service make up a larger share of Black families’ budgets. share of Black families’ budgets.

The study said that Black households are also spend-

prices that change more often.

The result, according to researchers, isn’t a mys-

tery: “Black families will suffer the worst effects of rising inflation because they lag behind their White counterparts in income, wealth, financial savings and home ownership.”

“Black families, especially those without an employed college graduate, are affected the most by inflation compared with all the other demographics,” said Ellie Walters, the CEO of Findpeoplefaster. com.

“Necessities like groceries, accommodation, gas, electricity bills, and phone bills eat up most of their income, leaving them with

fewer savings since most of them fall within the low-income groups,” Walters stated.

She said Black families are affected by even the slightest increase in price, and with the rising recession, many might have to live without most of these necessities.

“A large number of Black families live paycheck to paycheck and cannot easily escape the constantly increasing wealth gap between them and the other demographics, especially the White,” Walters reSEE INFLATION B2

Balancing our net income with our gross habits If your outflow exceeds your income then your upkeep will be your downfall. ~ Facebook meme Damon says: The math is easy. Your income has to exceed your outgo in order for you to have a favorable outcome. It’s not the math we wrestle with, it’s balancing our net income with our gross habits that trip us up. **** Coach, what’s your advice on the approaching interest rate hike? Some folks have HAD to use their credit cards to stay afloat. I figured I’d pose this question so that people in that predicament can get a more educated answer and not feel so ashamed or uncomfortable asking. ~ Irene Damon says: My advice is the same regardless of a low or high interest rate environment: Use credit only when absolutely necessary!

We’re living in some perilous times.

We’re in the midst of an inflationary economy. At the time of this writing, the inflation rate is currently at 9.1 percent.

That’s the highest the inflation rate has been since 1981. I recently wrote an article titled, “Inflationary economy reduces discretionary income.” Google it. It’s a good read. Prices have risen within every segment of our economy. We feel it in our everyday lives. We feel it at the gas pump.

We feel it at the grocery store. Our personal income hasn’t kept pace with inflation. Higher prices coupled with stagnant income means less money available after you pay the bills, gas up the car, and purchase groceries.

People are feeling the squeeze. As you alluded to, people are turning to credit cards and credit in general to stay afloat.

To stave off inflation and higher cost, the Federal Reserve has been raising the interest rate. They want to see the prices come back down to normal in every segment of the economy. The theory is,

a higher interest rate will curtail spending which reduces demand for consumer goods and services. Reduced demand decreases prices.

Sounds good in theory. From an everyday consumer perspective, they see higher prices due to inflation and higher interest cost due to rising interest rates.

They feel like they’ve been hit with a double whammy. Here’s why. Inflation in and of itself isn’t what caused people to start using credit cards to stay afloat.

They were already using credit cards to stay afloat. In other words, people have always and will continue to use credit cards as a supplement to their income. The fact that the national and global economy as a whole is struggling, allows people to place the blame on the general economy as opposed to their personal economy. As the meme stated, if your outflow exceeds your income, then your upkeep will be your downfall.

The truth of the matter is, people are not staying afloat when they’re using credit cards as a supplement to their income. They’re digging themselves into a deeper hole.

We can’t control the national economy.

We do have control and influence over our personal economy. In order to take control of our personal economy, the real issue needs to be addressed. We have to reconcile our net income with our gross habits. What would make a person turn to credit cards to stay afloat? The answer is generally 1 of 4 things or a combination thereof: • Low to moderate earnings • Overspending • Undersaving • Poor money management If a person focuses on and fixes one or more of these core issues, they’ll reduce

or eliminate the need to turn to credit cards to stay afloat. ***** Compounding Interest is your staircase to wealth!

One penny doubled and compounded daily for 30-days will grow to $5mm.

The likelihood of someone doubling and compounding their money daily is zero to none. However, the concept of compounding is 100 percent accurate. ~ Damon Carr Coach, what are your strategies for compounding your money? ~ Steve Damon says: Social media is a soundbite culture. As I come to understand this, I decided to turn many of my article titles into memes. “Compounding interest is your staircase to wealth” is one of my article titles. Google it. It’s a good read.

Compounding interest is the accumulation of interest, earning interest, earning interest, earning interest, etc. It keeps going and going, thus growing and growing like the Energizer Bunny.

Albert Einstein, who coined the phrase “compounding interest,” was the 8th wonder of the world, a renowned genius.

Even he was confused by the exponential growth potential of money once it started compounding.

I don’t ascribe to “get rich quick schemes.” Building wealth is a long game.

Investing money and allowing it to compound over an extended period of time is how everyday, ordinary people amass extraordinary wealth. Key point being, doing it this way takes time—YEARS!

There’s no magic pill or best kept secret to building wealth and more importantly sustaining wealth. People tend to go broke seeking and employing the socalled magic pill, best kept secret, latest trend, or fad promising riches, wealth, and an abundant life. If you want to become rich or wealthy FAST, there’s primarily two ways to do it: Become so great at what you do, people will pay you an insane amount of money to watch you do it or have you teach them how to do it.

Develop a product or service that everyone wants and people will travel far and wide to purchase it. Let’s say you’re great at what you do or you’ve created a great product that fulfills a need. You still have to convince people that you or your product is the best. Easier said than done!

Simply put, you have a better chance of becoming wealthy with compounding interest than you do convincing the world to pay you handsomely for your great skill, talent, products or services. I suggest that you try both.

My strategies for compounding my money are simple. Invest money over an extended period of time with a reasonable expectation. How do I invest with confidence of having a favorable outcome regardless of market fluctuations? I employ these sound investment strategies: • Have a definitive investment objective and goal • Understand underlying investment track record • Ensure my asset allocation mirrors my risk tolerance • Invest periodically by dollar cost averaging • Seek investments with a low expense ratio • Maintain a diversified portfolio • Seek investments with a low turnover ratio • Rebalance my asset allocation every six months (Damon Carr, Money Coach can be reached at 412-216-1013 or visit his website at www.damonmoneycoach.com)

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New Las Vegas Raiders president is female, Black, AND Asian I confess to being a Raiders fan from a very early age.

Even though I was born and raised in San Francisco, as a young boy I cheered Clem Daniels at Frank Youell Field. Old School. Then Daryl Lamonica. Then Kenny Stabler. Warren Wells. Gene Upshaw.

Hewritt Dixon. George Atkinson. George Blanda. I loved them all.

When they left Oakland the first time, they broke my heart.

When they came back, I bought season tickets and broke my bank. And then they left again and broke my heart for good.

I started rooting for

SANDRA DOUGLAS MORGAN

How many times did you see the phrase, “First African American, first Asian American, first woman to be vice president of the United States.”

Emil Guillermo

Commentary the 49ers. I know, blasphemy.

But I always keep an eye on the Las Vegas Raiders. And on July 7, 2022, when they announced a new president, I took a double take.

She looked like a Filipina. To me, she clearly had some Asian blood.

But then they announced her, Sandra Douglas Morgan, and all the stories had some variation of this line: “Morgan becomes the first Black woman in NFL history to ascend to the title of team president.”

Almost every story I found heralded her Blackness. Hooray.

Only it was partially true. From what I found, only NBC News with California homeboy Lester Holt had the story with all the facts.

Morgan was Black.

But as my Asian radar suggested, she was also Asian. Not Filipino, but Korean. NBC showed a picture of her mother.

We’ve been here before.

When something great happens to a mixedrace person, why do we ignore the mix?

The Raiders in Las Vegas are trying so hard to be modern and “progressive” (for the NFL).

You’ll recall the team gave Colin Kaepernick a tryout.

So why doesn’t a forward-thinking team in Las Vegas, one of the most diverse cities in the nation, just come out and announce that Morgan is both Black and Asian?

Is it because we don’t want to see the Asian parts? Is it the wrong suit in a game where Black trumps?

As I’ve said, we’ve been here before. Kamala Harris is from the East Bay. Her Black father was mostly absent from her life, and her mother, an Asian-Indian UC cancer researcher, was dominant in her upbringing. Still, Harris publicly identified as Black most of her life.

Through her time as a politico in San Francisco, to her rise as attorney general for the state, to her announcement in Oakland seeking the nomination for president, Harris was always Black first. I always noticed. And wrote about it in the Asian American media.

When did things change?

When she was selected as the vice-presidential running mate of Joe Biden.

And then, of course, when they won and were inaugurated.

It was American diversity history. Reporters stumbled over how to get it right.

And now, because human nature is what it is, most people have stumbled back to convention. Kamala? Oh, she’s Black.

But it’s not just Kamala. Tiger Woods has always had this problem. When he came on the scene with his first Masters victory in 1997, stories hailed him as the “Black man in a green jacket,” or “the Black man in a White man’s game.”

The column I wrote, published later in my book “Amok,” pointed out calling Tiger “Black” is once again, just half right. His mom is from Thailand. Tiger described his mix as “Cablanasian.” That made people smile but never stuck.

And now as he slumps back from missing the cut at the British Open, Tiger is back to Black.

Why is this all important? There’s accuracy of course, but it shows we have never been comfortable with mixed-race kids and what to call them. But since 2010, the multiracial population has grown from 9 million to 33.8 million people, a 276 percent increase according to the 2020 Census.

I know mixed-race kids. I made a few of them. I prefer they say they are Asian because they are. But their mom is White. But that doesn’t show. They get passed over and face both subtle and not so subtle discrimination all the time.

The Jewish faith offers a guide. It believes that what defines you passes by way of your mother. Hence Kamala, Tiger, and yes Saundra Douglas Morgan would be Asian.

But in America, the Census uses a “you are what you say you are” basis. Is it just easier to say Black and leave it at that? And ignore Asian? Maybe until someone points it out.

Here’s a vote for being accurate and fair.

When Saundra Douglas Morgan made history, we all should honor our diverse America where we can be Black and Asian and anything else. Proudly.

Especially when we make history together.

(Emil Guillermo is a veteran journalist and commentator. His work is on http:// www.amok.com) (This article originally appeared in Post News Group.)

(Photo: Mark Bowden via 123RF)

A retiree’s guide to choosing part-time work Although retirement is a goal for most people, it doesn’t come without challenges. Once you’ve left the workplace, you might feel more socially isolated and disconnected from mental stimulation. You may also notice that you’re not as physically active since sitting at home is your only “required” activity!

Having a part-time job is an excellent way to combat these challenges since it means you’ll have a new group of coworkers, tasks that require mental attention, and a reason to leave the house. The extra spending money is also a bonus since many retirees have to adjust to a fixed income that’s lower than their previous earnings.

Be sure to check the tax and benefit implications of getting a part-time job, but you won’t run into any conflicts in most cases. If you’ve been considering a part-time job in your golden years, here are a few tips about what to consider and where you might find your fit.

Be Honest About Your Abilities Before you pursue a parttime job, it’s essential to be honest with yourself about your abilities, requirements, and constraints. If you have mobility restrictions, look for jobs that don’t require physical la-

bor. Similarly, if you don’t have access to long-distance transportation, seek out opportunities close to home or on the local bus route. Making a list of your constraints alongside your interests will help narrow down your options when you start browsing for opportunities.

Pursue Your Hobbies One of the best ways to find a part-time job as a senior is to combine it with one of your hobbies. Since you’re already interested in the content, you’ll enjoy your time at work and build upon your current skills. If you’re passionate about reading, try working part-time at the local library or bookstore to brush up on your knowledge in between customers. If gardening has always been a favorite pastime, work at the local nursery or botanic gardens as a docent.

Musically inclined? Teach lessons out of your home in the afternoons when school-aged kids can attend. You’ll enrich the lives of others while making a little money doing something you love.

Try Something New If you’ve been on the same career path for decades, you might look to a part-time job during retirement as a way to try something new! Even a simple position, like working the

front desk at a museum in town, can introduce you to new technology and ideas, not to mention new people!

Consider a new environment, too. If you previously worked in an office, try an outdoor job like being a dog walker for neighborhood families. This is a unique opportunity to explore different paths!

Share Your Wisdom Even when you’re ready to retire from a full-time position, that doesn’t mean you’ve lost all interest in that field! The wisdom you’ve gained in an industry over the years can translate well into parttime work that’s adjacent to your old career. If you were an accountant or office manager, consider a bookkeeping position for a small business in your community. If your previous career was in construction, offer your part-time assistance as a home inspector in the local real estate market. If you’ve left a demanding career as a nurse or teacher, you’ll find that part-time jobs in these fields are abundant—you can work as a nurse at onsite health fairs or sign up as a substitute teacher in the local district. These positions are ideal because they combine your knowledge with jobs that can have flexible hours and limited commitments.

Take Advantage of Your Unique Situation Seniors may have more flexibility in their schedules than other working-age employees. Are you always up early, ready to start the day? Take advantage of this morning energy by looking for work earlier than many others would prefer. You can gladly take the opening shift for a local café, be a school bus driver for the morning route, or work as a nanny for a family with small children who need that 6:30 a.m. breakfast. Similarly, most seniors aren’t on a “career-track,” looking for jobs that scaffold to higher levels. Take this opportunity to fill temporary or seasonal positions that other workers may avoid.

Your lifestyle can more easily adjust to changes in scheduling, tasks, and opportunities. Plus, you’ll get to experience new jobs repeatedly, thus broadening your horizons! A local “temp” agency can connect you with these short-term positions and will take into consideration your parttime status.

Retirement doesn’t have to mean the end of your working life. It can signal the beginning of a new chapter full of exciting part-time opportunities!

Crackem app is official partner of Barrel and Flow Fest and supporter of Black-owned beer industry Orlando, FL (08/01/22) —There are more than 9,000 small and independent craft beer breweries in the country, and less than 1 percent are Black-owned. In support of small businesses and the Black community, the mobile app, Crackem, has officially partnered with America’s first Black arts and craft brew festival to celebrate and give exposure to Black owned breweries and industry

influencers during the upcoming Barrel and Flow Fest. Crackem serves as a proud sponsor of this year’s Barrel and Flow Fest, being held August 12-14, along Pittsburgh’s historic Strip District.

“At Crackem, we think it is important to be able to provide an extra level of support for the beer industry,” says Crackem CEO Aubrey Perry. “Our mobile app and marketing consultancy services are de-

signed to add value by empowering business owners and the Black community.

Through our outreach, we are devoted to supporting beer drinkers and helping to ensure that they know about breweries that are owned and operated by people of color,” he adds.

Barrel and Flow is America’s first Black arts and crafts brew fest. Voted by USA TODAY as one of America’s favorite festivals and second-best

brew fest, Barrel and Flow features a celebration of music, food, culture, and brews, in the heart of Pittsburgh. Founded by comedian, entrepreneur and award-winning podcaster, Day Bracey, this year’s lineup includes a welcoming festival environment that showcases Black breweries, artists, small businesses, and industry influencers.

Inflation slamming Black Americans INFLATION FROM B1

marked.

“Inflation often makes this dilemma worse, since during inflation, wages are cut, and workers are laid off. These low-income earners, largely made up of Black community members, are trapped by an economic cycle that seems rigged against them.”

Ronda Brunson, an expert in financial planning and credit restoration at Project Restore Bmore, agreed that Black households would continue to feel the impact of rising inflation.

“Most Black homes with car notes are paying double-digit interest rates, same for credit cards. Yet, we are not conditioned to go for better but to be grateful for whatever approval without contesting,” Brunson as-

serted.

“If I am already paying three times more than you for the same vehicle, then of course, when inflation occurs, I’m going to feel it first.”

According to the Brookings Institute, the median wealth of a White household is $188,200, which is 7.8 times more than the average Black household at $24,100.

Two years ago, the homeownership rate for White Americans was about 73 percent compared to 42 percent for Black Americans.

William Thomas of Butler Associates said money problems remain a concern for all, although Black and Brown communities feel the pain more acutely.

Thomas offered what he said were four simple things people can do to navigate

tough inflationary times.

“Make a budget, reduce any unnecessary expenses for the time being, which means assessing needs versus wants,” Thomas asserted. “[Also], identify a Community Development Financial Institution in your area and seek financial advice from a professional. This action may support better financial choices while navigating through uncertain financial times. Finally, stick to the plan created.”

Thomas advised that when it comes to reducing expenses, evaluate every item you purchase and ask, “Is this a need or want to have item?”

He said sacrificing is essential to achieving success. This may mean brand switching for groceries and planning to switch on your

phones.

“The ultimate budgeting goal is to save the savings from your plan so you can stock your bank account with a healthy cushion for important occasions like birthdays, holidays, starting a business, or a rainy-day fund,” Thomas continued.

“The best approach is to work with a trusted financial advisor, especially loan officers at your local community bank. Your local lender understands how important it is to access capital.

“Leverage their expertise to help craft a strong plan using accessible, affordable financial products to assist the effort to save while building credit and deflating the impact of inflation.”

(Stacy M. Brown is NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent)

OPINION

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Guest Editorial

Trump must be held accountable On Jan. 6, 2021, President Donald Trump incited a violent mob to attack the U.S. Capitol in an attempt to overturn a free and fair election.

The U.S. House Select Committee investigation of the Jan. 6 attack has provided a powerful and detailed account of how Trump sought to overturn the election.

On July 21, former deputy national security adviser Matthew Pottinger and a former press aide, Sarah Matthews, were key witnesses at the committee’s prime-time hearing as the panel examined what Trump was doing as his supporters broke into the Capitol.

During the hearings, Pottinger and Matthews provided details on what Trump did—and didn’t do—as his supporters swarmed the U.S. Capitol and interrupted the ceremonial certification of the election.

The American people should never forget that more than three hours elapsed between Trump’s speech at a rally near the White House and his release of a video calling the rioters “very special” but asking them to “go home now.”

Pottinger and Matthews provided an account on what was happening behind the scenes as Trump resisted pleas from family, aides and Republicans to condemn the riot and urge people to leave the building.

The stunning testimonies of Pottinger, Matthews and previous testimony by Cassidy Hutchinson, an aide to Mark Meadows, the former White House chief of staff, provides clear evidence that the country was led by an unhinged leader so desperate to stay in power that he attempted to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election.

The testimony of Pottinger, Matthews, Hutchinson and others is damning because it makes clear that Trump knew the Jan. 6 rally could turn violent. Hutchinson said Trump knew his supporters were armed but demanded that metal detectors be removed as armed protesters descended upon the Capitol.

As his supporters rioted and chanted “Hang Mike Pence,” Trump said that his vice president, who had refused to bend under pressure to illegally throw out electoral ballots, deserved to be targeted, according to what Hutchinson said she heard from people who were present when Trump made the comment.

When demanding that magnetic detectors be removed to allow armed supporters into his Jan. 6 rally, Trump reportedly said, “They’re not here to hurt me.”

Hutchinson was appalled by the president and the rioters’ behavior as she watched as, in her words, “the Capitol building gets defaced over a lie.”

The repeated lies of a stolen election threatened election workers.

Wandrea Moss, a former Georgia election worker, testified about herself and her mother, Ruby Freeman, being targets of racism from Trump supporters who believed they rigged the 2020 election.

The nine-member U.S. House Select Committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack, comprising seven Democrats and two Republicans, has done an impressive and essential public service for the past year in investigating the connection between Trump and his allies and the violence that ensued at the Capitol.

The public hearing is having an impact.

A new poll shows that about half of Americans believe Trump should be charged with a crime for his role in the U.S. Capitol attack.

The survey from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research finds that 48 percent of U.S. adults say the Republican former president should be charged with a crime for his role, while 31 percent say he should not be charged. An additional 20 percent say they don’t know enough to have an opinion. Fifty-eight percent say Trump bears a great deal or quite a bit of responsibility for what happened on Jan. 6.

Some argue that Trump should not face criminal indictment because it will divide the country.

Trump is counting on this view prevailing. He has successfully used fear and intimidation tactics to get his way in business and politics.

But the question must be asked: What happens to a democracy when a president can seek to overturn a free and fair election without consequences? What happens to the rule of law?

How can the United States have any moral authority to lead the world if it lets Trump get away with inciting an armed mob to overturn a democratic election?

There is mounting evidence against Trump, including: Trump refused to perform his constitutional duties on Jan. 6 and sought to intimidate government officials with the threat of force and obstruction of Congress.

Trump coordinated with far-right militias to interrupt Congress’ Electoral College vote count.

After Trump left office, there is evidence he engaged in witness tampering and the obstruction of justice.

There is also evidence that Trump tried to contact unnamed committee witnesses.

The Justice Department should indict Trump for his role in inciting the assault on the U.S. Capitol, refusing to take any action to stop the rioters for over three hours and other criminal actions.

Trump must be held accountable.

(Reprinted from The Philadelphia Tribune)

Founded 1910

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

Rob Taylor Jr.

Ashley Johnson

Office Manager

Managing Editor

Sales Director

John. H. Sengstacke

Editor & Publisher Emeritus (1912-1997)

AUGUST 3-9, 2022

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Credit where due (TriceEdneyWire.com)—I am undisputedly a political progressive. I am vehemently anti-racist. I am an activist for women’s rights and equity. A primary goal in my life is the increased prospects for communities of color to improve their overall ‘quality of life’ and gain access to all of the rights, benefits, and opportunities available to any other citizen of the wealthiest nation in the world. There are no circumstances in which I can be identified to be aligned with politically conservative principles. I restate these facts because of the thoughts I offer today.

The old adage of “Giving credit where credit is due” dictates today’s musings. I find myself doing something I could have never imagined before last year. With respect to the House Select Committee on the January 6th Attack, I commend the actions of Congresswoman Liz Cheney, Congressman Adam Kinzinger, and others whose actions can only be labeled as patriotic.

For those too young or who haven’t yet made the connection, Liz Cheney is the oldest daughter and political clone of arch-conservatives (ex-Vice President) Dick and Lynne Cheney. Her campaign webpage states: “Liz has been a proven constitutional conservative and an advocate for a strong America.”

Wikipedia describes her as “a leading ideological conservative…and a representative of the Republican establishment.” Her congressional voting record is 93 percent in sup-

Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq.

Commentary port of Trump initiatives. She is a true Republican conservative.

Conspicuously, her conduct as Vice-Chair of the House Select Committee on the January 6th Attack contradicts her past political positions. Her seat on the committee stands in opposition to the stance of congressional Republicans. She has aggressively rebuffed the alibis of the would-be insurrectionists and has vigorously supported the conventional expectations of the rule of law. Her interrogation of witnesses before the committee has been detailed and incisive. She has become a pariah and antagonist to her own party.

Her opposition to party orthodoxy has led to her removal as Chair of the House Republican Conference and leadership among congressional Republicans. Her participation on the committee has drawn the ire of House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy and the disgraced, twice-impeached ex-president who have orchestrated a primary challenge for her seat in Congress. Yet, despite the on-going hostility and what appears to be an unceremonious end to her political career, Cheney refuses to rollover to those intent

on the destruction of the democratic traditions of the nation. For that I commend her.

While offering commendations, I must also commend the courage and personal values of Cassidy Hutchinson, former aide to presidential Chief of Staff, Mark Meadows. In the face of public criticism and the possibility for retribution—both in career potential and physical security—she stood firm for the rule of law and brought the truth of an administration immersed in unethical conduct and corruption to the nation and the world.

Among those who testified before the committee, we cannot forget Ruby Freeman and her daughter, Wandrea “Shaye” Moss. These women, poll workers in Georgia during the 2020 election, were identified and targeted, by name,

by Trump. Accused of ballot tampering by Trump and his stooge, Rudy Giuliani, they were threatened with bodily harm, were the victims of home invasion and schemes to extract confessions of malfeasance.

Representative Adam Schiff asked a question that was applicable to all of the committee witnesses. “If the most powerful person in the world can bring the full weight of the presidency down on an ordinary citizen who is merely doing her job, with a lie as big and heavy as a mountain,” he said, “who among us is safe?”

(Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq. is a minister, a UN Peace Ambassador, and President of the Dick Gregory Society.)

How do others describe you?

About a month ago I received a phone call from a neighbor and she informed me that she had filed a civil suit against Pittsburgh City Council and then she asked me would I be able to attend the hearing? My first response was what does the suit pertain to? The answer was there are three important issues, but the most important was the illegal raise that the council had given themselves.

After a slight hesitation I asked her when and where was the hearing and then I assured her I would be there.

Why did I hesitate? I thought about how several people had referred to this person and it generally was that she was a “Black activist” and she was generally out of control.

That description made up my mind to attend the hearing and I was absolutely delighted that I was there.

Upon entering the Court Room I was

Louis ‘Hop’ Kendrick

To Tell The Truth somewhat disappointed that there were only four of us in attendance, and the activist who had extended the invitation was her own attorney.

It came to mind the old, old, old saying that if you defend yourself you generally have a fool for a client.

However the activist, who served as her own attorney, was more than competent that day in court. Her name is Carmen Brown and she was totally in control. In fact, she was more professional and prepared than the Pittsburgh attorney who repre-

sented Pittsburgh City Council.

After the hearing I called several persons whose opinions I have the utmost respect and asked them did any of them know Carmen and three of them knew her well. We talked at length and I came to the conclusion that down through Black history, there have been an untold number of Black women and men who have been described in a very negative sense. I am unable to name all of them, but ask yourself if you are one of those individuals whom others have labeled you falsely?

Carmen Brown is a committed, out spoken and courageous woman.

There are those who mislabeled Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., because he preached to turn the other cheek.

I wrote my column, “Tell The Truth” for 23 years and only three people ever challenged it.

Economic violence and the safer American plan (TriceEdneyWire.com)—The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, signed into law on June 25, 2022, was a win for the Biden-Harris Administration.

The legislation was genuinely bipartisan, more so in the Senate, where 15 Republicans joined 50 Democrats to pass the legislation, than in the House, where only 14 Republicans joined Democrats in passing the legislation.

While I often think of the Senate as the more partisan of the two legislative bodies, it is notable that 30 percent of Republican Senators were willing to join their colleagues to stop gun violence and to provide funds for mental health, and community violence intervention, school safety, and some control. In contrast, fewer than 7 percent of Republican Congressional representatives were willing to cross party lines.

Buoyed by the legislative victory, President Biden has now released a Safer Communities Plan, which is reflected in his 2023 budget. (https://www.whitehouse. gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/07/21/fact-sheet-president-bidens-safer-america-plan).

While many aspects of this plan are laudable, one of the most troubling aspects is the plan to commit $13 billion over five years to flood the streets with 100,000 more police officers.

The program uses the correct language by saying it will support “accountable” policing, but not a week goes by when we do not learn of the unaccountable policing that rankles anyone who believes in human rights. We don’t have to go back down memory lane to call the names of Tamir Rice, Michael Brown, Sandra Bland, or George Floyd. Just this year, there have been more martyrs. Joyland Walker was executed

Julianne Malveaux

Commentary in Akron. Patrick Loyola was killed in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Amir Locke was asleep on a couch in his cousin’s apartment in Minneapolis when a no-knock warrant allowed police offers to enter and shoot him in the head. And yet we need more police?

Violence is in the news, and it is escalating. During the weekend of July 23-24, 65 people were shot and five killed in Chicago. While many describe Chicago as the epicenter of gun violence, no city is immune to it.

No city is immune to other forms of violence, as well. I think, especially of economic violence, how economic tools are used to forcefully take life, liberty, and supply from people.

The market forces that create homelessness are forms of economic violence. The gentrification that pushes people out of their neighborhoods is a form of economic violence.

Rising prices and the inflation that hits poor people harder are also forms of economic violence. We can get exercised about physical violence, but we are far too silent about economic violence.

The World Health Organization defines violence as “The intentional use of physical force or power, threatened or actual, against oneself, another person, or against a group or community that either result in or has a high likelihood resulting in injury, death, psychological harm, maldevelopment, or deprivation.”

Unpacking that definition, it is clear that this country was built on a

foundation of violence.

Taking Native land and eliminating much of the Native population was violence. Enslaving African people was violence. Lynching was violence. More benignly but still harmful, mass incarceration, gentrification, segregation, and blighted schools are violence. We pass legislation to combat some forms of violence. We decry gang violence without asking where these gangs come from, how they were formed, and what in our culture glorifies violence.

I will not make excuses for those who pick up guns and kill folks, even when it is young men shooting each other in the street. There are not enough “mental health” so-called explanations to contextualize the rabid monsters who shot up Black elders in Buffalo, New York, or baby Latino innocents in Uvalde, Texas. And there is no excuse for the economic violence that traps people in poverty-tinged existences with either inadequate housing or none, with food bank food or less. Poverty is a form of economic violence. Joblessness is a form of economic violence. Predatory capitalism is a form of economic violence, and many corporate entities benefit from economic violence.

If we want to combat violence, we need to fight all of it, from the shootings in the streets to the racist killings in supermarkets to the capitalistic violence that pushes people into poverty that can generate nothing but pain, despair, and violence.

The Safer Communities Plan is a step in the right direction, but it is a misstep if it hinges on putting more police on the streets.

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

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The power of the truth (TriceEdneyWire.com)—The truth has power. That is why an army of politicians, lawyers, political schemers, media personalities, and admirers of former President Donald Trump have tried so hard to keep Americans from learning the truth about his effort to overturn the 2022 election.

Fortunately, he failed to overturn the election. And he and the corrupt members of his inner circle have failed to keep the truth hidden.

The House select committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack on our country— and the criminal conspiracy that led up to it—is an important exercise in truth telling. The committee finished its first round of televised hearings in July and expects to pick up again in September.

We have learned a lot thanks to the work of committee members and staff, principled members of Trump’s own administration, and journalists whose work has shed light on things Trump and his cronies desperately tried to keep hidden.

Donald Trump wanted to stay in power after losing the 2020 election. He wanted it so badly that he tried to bully his loyal vice president into making a power-abusing end run around the Constitution. He wanted it so badly that he worked his supporters into a rage with endless lies about the election being stolen.

He called these enraged supporters to Washington, D.C., to interfere with a key step in the peaceful transfer of power.

He sent them to the Capitol knowing that many were armed. And for hours, while members of the Capitol Police were being brutalized, and members of Congress and Vice President Pence’s security detail were calling loved ones, not sure they would live through the attack, Trump did nothing.

Well, to be more accurate, he did nothing to stop the rampage. He did plenty of

Ben Jealous

Commentary harmful things.

He did watch the violence on television. He did pour gasoline on the fire by denouncing Pence while the attack was under way. He did take calls from fearful members of Congress only to dismiss their pleas for help. He did reject direct appeals from his own daughter to call off the attack. He did tell his chief of staff that he didn’t think the mob chanting “hang Mike Pence” was doing anything wrong. He thought Pence deserved it for choosing the Constitution over Trump’s desire to keep his grip on power.

Only when it was becoming clear that the attack would fail to stop Congress from affirming Joe Biden’s victory did Trump grudgingly tell his troops to withdraw.

But even that was a tactical retreat.

His attack on our democracy hasn’t stopped. Or even slowed down.

Trump continues to lie about the election being stolen from him. His enablers in right-wing media and far-right social media networks spread the lie even further. MAGA activists harass election officials. State legislators use that lie to justify laws that make it harder for people Trump sees as his enemies to vote.

Even worse, they are trying to get more Trump loyalists and Big Lie believers into positions where they will have the power to succeed at what Trump and his team tried to do this time around: overturn the election results in key states.

Trumpists and election deniers are running for office as local election officials, state legislators, and secretaries of state, where they will have power to interfere with how elections are run and votes are counted.

And potentially even worse than that, they are also enlisting the far-right Supreme Court majority that Trump cemented with three justices who were preapproved by the far right-wing legal movement. They have agreed to consider a fringe legal theory pushed by the hard right.

If the court’s new activist far-right majority embraces this legal theory, it would let state legislators violate state constitutions and ignore and override the will of the voters. And it would be impossible for courts to step in as a check on anti-democratic abuses of power. This is a battle plan for authoritarian rule.

It may be hard for many people to believe just how extreme Trump’s movement and his political supporters have become, and just how much of a threat to democracy they pose as we approach this year’s congressional elections. The January 6 committee has done democracy a big favor by dragging important truths into the light of day. We can’t turn away from them. To preserve our country and our freedoms, we must recognize that they are threatened. And we must act to protect them.

(Ben Jealous serves as president of People For the American Way and Professor of the Practice at the University of Pennsylvania.)

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Long games and long shots Republican Senate Leader Mitch McConnell’s published memoir has a strategic title: The Long Game. Last month, a Fox News contributor bragged about how well Mitch McConnell played the long game to create a conservative majority on the Supreme Court.

McConnell’s long game began after the death of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia in 2016.

President Obama nominated Merrick Garland, the Chief Justice of the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit, to replace Scalia. McConnell insisted that the next president, with the mandate of the voters, should fill the vacant Supreme Court seat, not the outgoing president whose party lost the House and Senate during his two terms in office.

At least, that’s what McConnell told the public.

His long game was predicated on a political forecast that suggested the same red wave that won the Republicans the house in 2010 and the Senate in 2014 would win the Republicans the White House. McConnell successfully blocked Obama’s attempt to replace Scalia, and the Republicans won the presidency.

McConnell’s long game worked out better than he anticipated.

The Republican president ended up filling not one but three vacancies on the Supreme Court, and the newly-appointed Supreme Court justices were responsible for overturning Roe v. Wade.

Once the Supreme Court became conservative, the progressive wing of the Democratic Party campaigned to expand the number of justices on the Supreme Court in a desperate attempt to regain the majority.

President Biden went on the record against packing the court, but after Roe v. Wade

J. Pharoah Doss

Check It Out was struck down, the Democrats decided to retaliate against McConnell’s long game with a long shot.

A group of House Democrats recently introduced TERM, the Supreme Court Tenure Establishment and Retirement Modernization Act. The act proposes that after presidential elections presidents can only appoint justices in their first and third years in office, and justices confirmed through this process will have to retire after eighteen years.

The sponsor of TERM explained the bill was drafted because “Five of the six conservative justices on the bench were appointed by presidents who lost the popular vote, and they are now racing to impose their out-oftouch agenda on the American people.”

The sponsor of TERM also said term limits were a necessary step toward restoring balance on the majority-conservative court.

This explanation makes the sponsors of TERM sound like pouting sore losers, not champions of much-needed change. If TERM’s sponsors wanted to appear principled, they should have packed their proposal with congressional term limits.

That could have restarted the Term Limit Movement from the early 1990s.

During an interview in 1987, a first-term Senator named Mitch McConnell was asked

about increasing public demand for congressional term limits. McConnell said in most professions, the longer you’re in, the more you know. The same principle applies to congress. So, it doesn’t make sense to throw legislators out after they’ve become most effective.

Regardless of McConnell, the Term Limit Movement marched forward.

According to ThougtCo., Senators and Representatives from 23 states faced term limits from 1990 to 1995. In 1995 the Supreme Court killed the Term Limit Movement in U.S. Term Limits, Inc. v. Thornton, by declaring states could not impose congressional term limits because the constitution didn’t grant the states the power to do so. That same year, The Citizen’s Legislation Act was brought to the House floor for a vote.

This was a proposed amendment to the US Constitution that set 12-year congressional term limits, two terms for Senators and six terms for Representatives.

The Citizen’s Legislation Act didn’t pass.

It had the majority of votes 227–204, but it didn’t have the two-thirds majority required for a constitutional amendment.

In 2017, three decades after McConnell’s 1987 interview, he was asked about term limits again. McConnell said, “We have term limits. They’re called elections.” Then after Roe v. Wade was struck down, McConnell told reporters, regarding the Supreme Court and his focus on the federal judiciary in the Senate, “I think it’s the most consequential contribution I’ve been able to make to my country in the course of my career.”

We all heard the phrase “elections have consequences”, but the consequences of congressional elections without term limits are career politicians who have unlimited time to plan long games and take long shots.

Congressman Bennie Thompson and the legacy of ‘All men are created equal’ (TriceEdneyWire.com)—As one of the Founding Fathers, there is an obvious question always asked about Thomas Jefferson.

How can a person fight for freedom for oneself and simultaneously deny freedom for others? How can Jefferson write the powerful words, “All men are created equal” as part of the Declaration of Independence, yet he owned slaves as property? It is a paradox in which his words are true despite the self-contradiction by its author. It represents an odd combination where a principle of inspiration and equality is combined with hateful actions.

Despite the two being intertwined, we should always embrace the truth of Jefferson’s words and their meaning while rejecting the hypocrisy of his actions. Abraham Lincoln made a valid point by stating, “The assertion that “all men are created equal” was of no practical use in effecting our separation from Great Britain and it was placed in the Declaration not for that, but for future use.” Lincoln had the insight to know that future generations would have to appeal to America’s foundational documents and constitutional principles when arguing for equality and justice. In our constant fight for the rights, opportunities, and protections connected with American democracy, we are faced again with the same hypocritical combination of people claiming to support the U.S. Constitution with their words but destroying its application by their actions—or inactions.

While the hearings by the Jan. 6 House select committee are intended to investigate the attack on the Capitol and the campaign to overturn the 2020 presidential election, the work and the findings from the committee are widely ignored by supporters of Donald Trump and dismissed as being a partisan witch hunt. Now that the Department of Justice has an ongoing criminal probe into the plot to overturn the election, one wonders what information would have remained hidden from the American people if the greatest national hearings since Watergate never occurred. When Lincoln mentioned “future use,” it is a timeless reference to the work and efforts of men

David W. Marshall

Commentary and women, such as civil rights activist and Congressman Bennie Thompson.

While many are familiar with Congressman Jim Clyburn of South Carolina and the late John Lewis from Georgia as civil rights icons from the Deep South, the chairman of the Jan. 6 House committee, Bennie Thompson, is not a household name outside of his home state of Mississippi. Even the committee’s vice chair, Liz Cheney, said she did not know Bennie Thompson before the Jan. 6 committee was formed. In 1993, when former President Bill Clinton named Mike Espy, a young congressman representing Mississippi’s 2nd congressional district and a rising star within the national Democratic Party, to agriculture secretary, Thompson won the special election to fill the vacant seat.

He went on to win 12 subsequent elections adding to a political career that spanned over 50 years. The 74-year-old lawmaker has become the longest-serving Black elected official representing the state of Mississippi and a fixture in Mississippi politics.

Democratic candidates who want to win their election need Congressman Bennie Thompson’s blessing. Over the years, as the state’s only Black and Democrat congressman, he has become the party’s most powerful figure, considered the dean of the Mississippi delegation and a Democratic kingmaker in Mississippi politics. As a man who started by registering people to vote across rural Mississippi, leading sit-ins at lunch counters across the South, serving as mayor of Bolton, Mississippi, and then to the halls of Congress, he has remained humble throughout his journey. He generally keeps a low profile and is not one who seeks the spotlight, but his 50 years of public service have prepared him for this moment.

The nation would not have known about Bennie Thompson in this manner if it was not for House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn.

Several members within the Democratic caucus sought to lead the committee, but Clyburn urged House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to appoint Thompson. Clyburn said he wanted Thompson in the role because the committee needed a leader who would be focused on the investigation and not see it as an opportunity to grandstand or score political points.

During the first hearing, Thompson’s opening remarks reminded the nation of hypocritical actions by those who claim to be patriotic. “I am from a part of the country where people justified the actions of slavery, the Ku Klux Klan and lynching. I’m reminded of that dark history as I hear voices today try and justify the actions of the insurrectionists on Jan. 6,” Thompson said.

Today’s politics is covered with hypocrisy.

The words of the U. S. Constitution have very little influence on those who prefer to undermine democracy through violence. If democracy is to be embraced unconditionally, then the equality of rights, the transfer of power through free and fair elections, and the application of the rule of law must also be unconditionally embraced. Throughout our dark history and current events, democracy has been resisted on multiple fronts.

For the insurrectionists and their enablers, democracy is selective in that it is followed only when it is convenient for one’s personal and political interests.

With the upcoming midterm election, Republicans are, ultimately, expected to take over the House. If the transfer of power occurs, it will not diminish the legacy of the Jan. 6 committee and its moment in the history of the American people being truthfully told the whole story of the attack on the Capitol. Nor will it take away from Thompson’s leadership and the culmination of his life’s work. He is well deserving of the public recognition he is now receiving.

(David W. Marshall is the founder of the faithbased organization, TRB: The Reconciled Body, and author of the book God Bless Our Divided America.

He can be reached at www.davidwmarshallauthor. com.)

African Americans, hate crimes and money Recently, the California Department of Justice released a report which showed that African Americans are the greatest victims of Hate Crimes in the State. This is not surprising since we have always been the victims of Hate Crimes, with law enforcement seeking to underreport for fear of looking bad. At the writing of this editorial, there are more than 42 active investigations of shootings by law enforcement personnel in the State of California. This fact came to light recently as the San Bernardino Police Department attempted to avoid an investigation of the shooting of Rob Adams, who was shot 7 times in the back on July 16th.

The reason for shooting this Black man while he was running away from police was because they thought he had a gun in his hand instead of the cell phone on which he was talking to his mother at the time he was shot. He was a Black man reported by a call to the police, in an area where there was supposedly a lot of gambling. The police, for their own sake, contend he had a gun instead

John E. Warren

Commentary of the cell phone.

Question: How many Black men have been killed so far by police because they had a cell phone in their hands, which police assumed was a gun? We can count at least three: one here in San Diego county shot in broad daylight because of a cell phone in his hand, one killed in another state standing outside his garage with a cell phone in his hands that police thought was a gun. Now, Mr. Adams, who we are sure is just one more. Oh, let’s not forget the young man in Minnesota who was shot in his car by an officer who thought she was reaching for her taser instead of her gun.

Now that everyone is aware of just how great Hate Crimes are against African Americans, are we going to be treated like the Asian community following what we clearly called a Hate Crime massacre at the Massage Spas in Atlanta, Georgia, or, to be more specific, here in California where hundreds of thousands of dollars have been made available for grants to fight Hate Crimes, primarily in the Asian communities?

While some Black media outlets received some of the funding, where is the similar grant allocation budget to fight Hate Crimes in the African American community beyond the State Attorney General announcing the creation of an office with a Black man over it, in response to this crisis?

Where is the money which makes the same level of commitment to the Black community that the State has made to the Asian Community? A public relations campaign without the dollars to match what has been done for the Asian community, is just window dressing.

New Pittsburgh Courier

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AUGUST 3-9, 2022

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COMBINED NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT AND NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS (FONSI/RROF) AUGUST 3, 2022

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Office of Management & Budget Community Development Division City of Pittsburgh City County Building, Room 501 414 Grant Street Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-255-2211 These notices shall satisfy two separate but related procedural requirements for activities to be undertaken by the City of Pittsburgh and the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP).

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REQUEST FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS – MTW & SECTION 8 PBV On or about August 24, 2022, the City of Pittsburgh will authorize HACP to submit a request to United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the release of the following federal funds to undertake the project known as the Manchester Redevelopment: (a) HACP Moving to Work (MTW) Funds (approximately $16,500,000); and (b) Low Income Housing Tax Credits under IRS Code Section 42 (approximately $10,800,000); (c) Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency’s Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement Funds (approximately $1,000,000); (d) Public Housing Operating Subsidy pursuant to Section 9 of the United States Housing Act of 1937; (e) Section 8 Project Based Voucher Subsidy; (f) Seller Note Financing (approximately $11,607,200).

The release of the aforementioned funds will be for the purpose of developing the Manchester Redevelopment, which includes the rehabilitation of eighty-six (86) existing scattered site low income public housing units located on fifty-six (56) properties within the Manchester neighborhood of the City of Pittsburgh, 15233. The Manchester Redevelopment will utilize the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Rental Assistance Demonstration program to convert the existing units to Project Based Voucher units in order to fund the necessary capital improvements and preserve the long-term affordability of the existing units. As part of this notice, the project requires the implementation of a set of development activities related to the completion of this project which may include, and is not limited to, demolition, acquisition, disposition, new construction, and remediation. HACP is the land owner, Allies & Ross Management and Development Corporation is the developer, and Manchester RAD, LLC (the mixed-finance owner entity) will be the owner entity of this development. The total projected cost of the development is approximately $40,000,000.

FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT The City of Pittsburgh has determined that the project will have no significant impact on the human environment. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) is not required. Additional project information is contained in the Environmental Review Record (ERR). The ERR will be made available to the public for review either electronically or by U.S. mail. Please submit your request

by U.S. mail to City of Pittsburgh, Office of Management and Budget, 414 Grant St, City County Building Room 501, Pittsburgh, Pa 15219 or by email to Whitney.Finnstrom@pittsburghpa.gov.

PUBLIC COMMENTS Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to: Whitney Finnstrom City of Pittsburgh 414 Grant St Room 501 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-255-2211 OR Whitney.Finnstrom@pittsburghpa.gov All comments received by August 23, 2022, will be considered by the City of Pittsburgh prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds.

Comments should specify which Notice (Request for Release of Funds 1 or Finding of No Significant Impact 2) they are addressing.

ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION The City of Pittsburgh certifies to HUD that Ed Gainey in his capacity as Mayor, City of Pittsburgh, consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied.

HUD’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities and allows the City and the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh to use funding sources (a) through (e) identified under Request for Release of Funds above.

OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS HUD will accept objections to its release of funds and the City of Pittsburgh’s certification for a period of fifteen (15) days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the City of Pittsburgh; (b) the City of Pittsburgh has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by HUD; or (d) another federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted via email in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed to the HUD Field Office of Public Housing in Pittsburgh at PittsburghPIH.ER@hud.gov.

Potential objectors should contact the HUD Field Office of Public Housing in Pittsburgh via email to verify the actual last day of the objection period.

Ed Gainey Mayor City of Pittsburgh

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IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA PENN PIONEER ENTERPRISES LLC ) Plaintiff, ) vs.

) ISABEL B. GERENYI, Defendant.

CIVIL DIVISION No: GD-22-002502

NOTICE OF SERVICE BY PUBLICATION NOTICE IS GIVEN TO ISABEL B. GERENYI AND TO HER POTENTIAL UNKOWN HEIRS. 1. Plaintiff is Penn Pioneer Enterprises LLC. Defendant is ISABEL B. GERENYI. 2. Plaintiff filed a Complaint in Partition as to 1027 Lancaster Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15218 requesting: a. Absent a default or admission by Defendant, that the Court conduct a hearing to determine the right of Plaintiff to partition of the property as required by Pa. R.C.P. 1557. b. Pursuant to Pa.R.C.P. 1567, that the Court grant a private sale of Defendant’s undivided one-half interest to Plaintiff in consideration of the satisfaction of Plaintiff’s Judgment. Plaintiff submits that no “owelty” is required in this instance.

If you wish to defend, you must enter a written appearance personally or by attorney and file your defenses or objections in writing with the court. You are warned that if you fail to do so the case may proceed without you and a judgment may be entered against you without further notice for the relief requested by the plaintiff. You may lose money or property or other rights important to you.

YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A LAWYER, GO TO OR TELEPHONE THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW. THIS OFFICE CAN PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION ABOUT HIRING A LAWYER. IF YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO HIRE A LAWYER, THIS OFFICE MAY BE ABLE TO PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION ABOUT AGENCIES THAT MAY OFFER LEGAL SERVICES TO ELIGIBLE PERSONS AT A REDUCED FEE OR NO FEE. Lawyer Referral Service Allegheny County Bar Association 400 Koppers Building 436 Seventh Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Telephone: (412) 261-5555 Email: LRS@acba.org https://www.getapittsburghlawyer.com/ PUBLIC NOTICE OPENING OF WAITING LISTS Effective at the start of the business day Tuesday, August 9, 2022, the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) will open the waiting lists for the following Low Income Public Housing Sites: • Bedford Dwellings (1-bedroom) • Arlington Heights (1-bedroom) • Allegheny Dwellings (1-bedroom) Pre-applications with a site selection chart for these waiting lists can only be obtained from the HACP web site (www.hacp.org), by emailing a request to Occupancy@hacp.org or by calling 412-456-5030.

Completed pre-applications with site selection chart can only be submitted using one of the following methods: *Email to: Occupancy@hacp.org *Fax to: 412-456-5182 *Mail to: HACP Occupancy Department, 1 0 0 R o s s S t r e e t , 4 t h F l o o r, P i t t s b u r g h , PA 1 5 2 1 9 *Utilize the document drop box located at: HACP Occupancy Department, 100 Ross Street, 4th Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.

Position on the waiting list/s will be determined based upon bedroom size needed, preference, and Sequence Date/Time (the date and time of receipt of your pre-application).

Persons with disabilities requiring accommodations can contact the HACP’s Disability Compliance Office at 412-456-5282. For those that are deaf or hard of hearing, you can also contact HACP at TDD: 412201-5384.

For information about obtaining a pre-application for the HACP Low Income Public Housing Program, please contact the Occupancy Department at 412-456-5030; TDD: 412-201-5384 or visit our website at www.hacp.org.

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2022-2023 BOARD OF TRUSTEE MEETINGS In response to the coronavirus pandemic, the Urban Academy of Greater Pittsburgh Charter School will be conducting all future Board of Trustees Meetings on the ZOOM virtual meeting platform until further notice.

All regular trustee meetings will be recorded.** 2022-2023 BOARD OF TRUSTEE MEETINGS www.zoom.com | Meeting ID: 976 7002 1201 | Passcode: UA437437 REGULAR TRUSTEE MEETINGS 6:00 PM Call to Order & Public Comment | 7:30 PM Adjournment Requests to speak at the public hearing will be accepted beginning one week prior to the date of the hearing until noon of the day of the meeting. Call 412-361-1008 ext 207 to register. Each speaker will be limited to three minutes of uninterrupted testimony.

September 8, 2022 November 10, 2022 March 9, 2023 May 11, 2023 June 8, 2023 **Summer Board Retreat** July 28, 2022 **Annual Board Meeting** January 12, 2023 COMMITTEE MEETINGS www.zoom.com | Meeting ID: 976 7002 1201 | Passcode: UA437437 School Performance 9:00 - 9:15 AM | Finance 9:20 - 9:35 AM | Executive 9:40 - 9:55 AM Each committee meeting will run 15-20 minutes.

September 1, 2022 November 3, 2022 March 2, 2023 May 4, 2023 June 1, 2023

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS!

ALLEGHENY COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES PUBLIC MEETING NEEDS BASED PLAN AND BUDGET The Allegheny County Department of Human Services (DHS) is preparing its 2023-24 Needs Based Plan and Budget. Funding awarded to DHS through the Needs Based Plan and Budget process supports programs and services for children, youth and families across the entire continuum – from Family Centers and out of school time to foster and kinship care, and many more.

There will be a virtual public meeting to talk about DHS’s proposed plan and collect public comments Tuesday, August 9th at 2:30 p.m.

For more information on how to participate, visit https://www.alleghenycounty.us/ Human-Services/News-Events/ Meetings-Hearings/Community. aspx Allegheny County DHS makes reasonable efforts to accommodate people with disabilities or limited English proficiency. The virtual public meeting will feature live transcription as well as live interpretation in American Sign Language, Spanish, and Nepali.

Erin Dalton Director Allegheny County Department of Human Services LEGAL ADVERTISING Bids/Proposals

ADVERTISEMENT Bids are hereby solicited for the Community College of Allegheny County, 800 Allegheny Avenue, Pittsburgh PA 15233 on the following: BID PROPOSAL NO. 1093-2 – SECURITY CAMERA REPLACEMENT PROJECT – OFFICE OF COLLEGE SERVICES A MANDATORY pre-bid meeting and site-visitation will be held at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, August 9, 2022. The assembly point will be the lobby of the Office of College Services, 800 Allegheny Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Due date: 2:00 P.M. Prevailing Time on Wednesday, August 24, 2022 The project labor agreement (PLA) applies to both projects.

Any proposals received after this deadline will be considered as a “late bid” and will be returned unopened to the offerer.

Proposals may require Bid Bonds, Performance Bonds, Payment Bonds, and Surety as dictated by the specifications.

No bidder may withdraw his bid for a period of ninety (90) days after the scheduled closing time for receipt of bids.

The Board of Trustees reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

The Community College of Allegheny County is an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and encourages bids from Minority/ Disadvantaged owned businesses.

For more information, contact Michael Cvetic at mcvetic@ccac.edu.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR ENGINEERING SERVICES As part of the BrashearCARES Hilltop Community Center, The Brashear Association, Inc. “Brashear” is seeking proposals for ar chit ect ur e and engineer ing services for a new ~15,000 – 20,000 SF commercial building that will feature a market, café, and other community oriented space. The project is located in the City of Pittsburgh in the 300 block of Brownsville Road. The scope of services includes all design and engineering work associated with the project from pre-schematic design through construction administration.

The Request for Proposals can be received by emailing management@brashearassociation.org Proposals will be accepted electronically until August 29, 2022 at 4pm.

Brashear reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

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B6

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AUGUST 3-9, 2022

LEGAL ADVERTISING

LEGAL ADVERTISING

Bids/Proposals

Bids/Proposals

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

SONNY BOY

LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT PORT AUTHORITY OF ALLEGHENY COUNTY REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL NO. 22-04 Port Authority of Allegheny County (Authority) is requesting proposals for the performance of the following service (“Contract Services”): DRUG AND ALCOHOL COMPLIANCE PROGRAM SERVICES The work under the proposed Agreement consists of providing services to support the maintenance of Authority’s Drug and Alcohol Compliance Program.

The services would include, but are not limited to: Program Support Services; Mobile Collection Services; Collection Facilities Services; Medical Specialists Services; Laboratory Services; Medical Review Officer Services; Substance Abuse Professional Services; Safety-Sensitive Contract Compliance Services; and Training Program Development and Implementation.

The Agreement will be for a 3-year period with the option to extend the term of the Agreement up to 2 additional years at the sole discretion of Authority.

A copy of the Request for Proposal (RFP) will be available on or after July 27, 2022 and can be obtained by registering at the Port Authority ebusiness website: http://ebusiness.portauthority.org and following the directions listed on the website. Please note that Proposers must register under the ebusiness category of PSDAT – Pro Drug and Alcohol Program for this RFP. Proposers may also register in other categories for any future RFPs issued by Port Authority. If you have specific questions regarding this RFP, please contact Annamaria Sperduti at (412) 566-5343 or via email asperduti@portauthority.org An Information Meeting for interested parties will be held at 9:30 a.m., prevailing time, August 17, 2022 via Microsoft Teams video conference and/or conference call to answer any questions regarding this RFP. To join by Microsoft Team video conference: • https://bit.ly/3IUQGIK To join by Microsoft Teams call-in number: • 412-927-0245 United States, Pittsburgh (Toll) • Conference ID: 647 211 770# Electronic proposals must be both received, and time stamped by a representative of the Purchasing and Materials Management Department through Authority’s Ebusiness website at or before 2:00 p.m., prevailing time, August 31, 2022, at http://ebusiness.portauthority.org. Proposals received or time stamped by a Purchasing and Materials Management Department representative through Authority’s Ebusiness website after the advertised time for the submission of proposals shall be non-responsive and therefore ineligible for award. Each Proposer shall be solely responsible for assuring that its proposal is timely received and time stamped in accordance with the requirements herein.

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

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

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

Further, proposers and the Contractor shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, age, disability, national origin, sex, sexual origin, gender identity or status as a parent in the award and performance of contracts or subcontracts for these Contract Services Port Authority of Allegheny County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.

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

Proposals/bid submittals will be due 11:00 AM on August 10, 2022 and will be read at 11:15 AM., the same day, at Port Authority’s Heinz location (345 Sixth Avenue, Third Floor, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222-2527) as well as through your web browser via Microsoft Teams video conferencing, for the following: Electronic Proposal - Ebusiness website (http://ebusiness.portauthority.org) 1 2 3 4 5 6

Bid Number B220215ARR

Bid Name Asbestos Free Brake Blocks Assembled on Shoes

B220756A

Snow & Ice Removal - Park n' Ride Lots - North & West

B220757A B220758A B220759A B200760A

Rock Salt - Bulk Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid Ready to Use Coolant - Antifreeze Coach Replacement Parts - Articulated Bus Bellows

To join by Microsoft Team video conference: • https://bit.ly/3ImmFBD To join by Microsoft Teams call-in number: • 412-927-0245 United State, Pittsburgh (Toll) • Conference ID: 199 699 899# No bidder may withdraw a submitted Proposal for a period of 75 days after the scheduled time for opening of the sealed bids.

A Pre-Bid Conference will be held via tele-conference on each of the above items at 10:00 am July 26, 2022, as well as through your web browser via Microsoft Teams video conference.

To join by Microsoft Team video conference: • https://bit.ly/3Nwp5hH To join by Microsoft Teams call-in number: • 412-927-0245 United State, Pittsburgh (Toll) • Conference ID: 222 443 158# Attendance at this meeting is not mandatory, but is strongly encouraged.

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

These contracts may be subject to a financial assistance contract between Port Authority of Allegheny County 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 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.

LEGAL ADVERTISING

LEGAL ADVERTISING

LEGAL ADVERTISING

Bids/Proposals

Bids/Proposals

Bids/Proposals

ALLIES & ROSS MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR THE MANCHESTER REDEVELOPMENT IFB NO. 2022-39 ALLIES & ROSS MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION will receive sealed bids for the Manchester Redevelopment. The construction work is estimated to begin in December 2022. The estimated value of the project in the following range Plumbing Construction: $375,427.91 - $546,875.04.

Bid Documents will be available on or about Monday, July 25, 2022 and may be obtained from the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh’s webpage, www.hacp.org. Bidders may register on the website and download the bid documents free of charge.

A Virtual Pre-Bid Conference will be held on Wednesday, August 3, 2022 at 9:00 a.m. virtually at the following link: Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84848318527? pwd=MjZDTVE0bEI2TkhuN3BZZUJqdnRiZz09 Meeting ID: 848 4831 8527 Passcode: 190987 One tap mobile +19292056099,,93645753832#,,,,*302603# US (New York) +13017158592,,93645753832#,,,,*302603# US (Washington DC) Bids will be received at: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) Procurement Department 100 Ross Street, Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Attn: Kim Detrick, Director of Procurement until 9:00 a.m. Thursday, August 11, 2022 at which time and place all bids will be received.

Bids will be received at: Allies & Ross Management and Development Corporation will only be accepting physical proposals dropped off in person from 8:00 AM until the closing of 9:00 AM on August 11, 2022 at the HACP Procurement Department, 100 Ross Street, Suite 200, Pittsburgh PA 15219 Attn: Kim Detrick, Chief Procurement Officer. Due to COVID, the bid opening on August 11, 2022 at 9:00A M w i l l be conducted vi rtually via Zoom. Zoom l i nk: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83212146043?pwd=Y2lCV1FPN2V ySWJPZTNVYXlSYWlJUT09. Copies of bid documents are not available for in person pickup. Bid Documents, including the Bid Forms, Project Manual, and Drawings, may be obtained from the Business Opportunities Section of the HACP website, www.hacp.org. Prospective Bidders may register as a vendor on the website and download the documents free of charge.

Allies & Ross Management and Development Corporation will only be accepting physical proposals dropped off in person on August 11, 2022 from 8:00 AM until the closing of 9:00 AM on August 11, 2022. Bids may still be submitted electronically at the following link: https://www.dropbox.com/request/8CnltVK6HD5QVvQzTWor and can still be mailed via USPS at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.

ALLIES & ROSS MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION reserves the right to waive any informality in, or reject any and all bids. No bid shall be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days subsequent to the opening of bids without the consent of ALLIES & ROSS MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION. The Contractor will be required to comply with all applicable Equal Employment Opportunity requirements for Federally Assisted Construction Contracts.

The Contractor must ensure that employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sexual preference, handicap or national origin.

The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh has revised its website. As part of those revisions, vendors must now register and log-in, in order to view and download IFB/RFP documentation.

ALLIES & ROSS MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION AND THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH STRONGLY ENCOURAGES CERTIFIED MINORITY-OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES AND WOMAN-OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES TO RESPOND TO THE SOLICITATION. Additional information may be obtained by contacting Kim Detrick, Director of Procurement at (412) 456-5116 Opt 1.

Caster D. Binion, President & CEO ALLIES & ROSS MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

Allies & Ross Management and Development Corporation 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.

NOTICE TO BIDDERS The Sports & Exhibition Authority will receive sealed bids for Loading Dock Expansion Joint Replacements as identified below for the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. The contract for this work will be with the Sports & Exhibition Authority of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County. Inquiries regarding the bidding should be made to the Sports & Exhibition Authority 171 10th Street, 2nd Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, Attention: Spencer Girman- E-mail: sgirman@pittsburghcc.com, Telephone: 412-325-6137. Bid Packages may be obtained after the date identified below through Accu-Copy at (724) 935-7055. Additional information on the project can also be found of Accu-Copy’s website at https://accu-copy.com/plan-room This Advertisement applies to the following Bid Package: Project: Bid Package Name: Bid Package Available: Approximate Value:

David L. Lawrence Convention Center Loading Dock Expansion Joint Replacements Wednesday, August 3, 2022 $99,000

Time/Date/Location for Pre-Bid Meeting:

10:00 AM, Wednesday, August 10, 2022 David L. Lawrence Convention Center 1000 Ft. Duquesne Blvd Pittsburgh, PA 15222

Time/Date/Location for Bid: 2:00 PM, Friday, August 19, 2022

David L. Lawrence Convention Center

1000 Ft. Duquesne Blvd Pittsburgh, PA 15222

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) FOR DRIVER’S EDUCATION PROGRAM REBID RFP#550-05-22-REBID The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request proposals from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): The documents will be available no later than July 25, 2022 and signed, sealed proposals will be accepted until: 9:00 AM on August 16, 2022.

The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will only be accepting physical proposals dropped off in person from 8:00 AM until the closing time of 9:00 AM on August 16, 2022 in the lobby of 100 Ross St. 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 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.

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

Questions or inquires should be directed to: Mr. Kim Detrick Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-643-2832 A pre-submission meeting will be held via Zoom meeting; on 9:00 AM on August 4, 2022 Please see meeting information below: Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 818 9931 6363 Passcode: 117159 +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington D.C) The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation.

HACP has revised their website.

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

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

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

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

The Courier is THE VOICE of Black Pittsburgh.

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

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

COURIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS!

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CLASSIFIEDS

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

AUGUST 3-9, 2022

Bids/Proposals

RENTAL SERVICE

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Furnished Apartments

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

INVITATION FOR BIDS Sealed bids will be received in the office of the Controller of Butler County, Mr. Benjamin Holland, County Government Center, 124 West Diamond Street, P.O. Box 1208 Butler, Pa. 16003-1208 until 2:00pm prevailing time Tuesday, September 6, 2022 with all bids opened at the public meeting on Wednesday, September 7, 2022 at 10am in the Public Meeting Room, First Floor, County Government Center, 124 West Diamond Street Butler, PA. All sealed bids must be clearly marked CDBG Jefferson Township Park Restroom Project on the outside of the envelope.

A Mandatory Pre-bid Meeting will be held at 10:00am on August 17, 2022 at the concessions building of the Laura Doerr Park, 200 Doerr Park Drive, Cabot, Pennsylvania 16023. Any potential bidder not attending this meeting will be considered disqualified and will forfeit the cost of the project specifications.

A general description of the work is as follows: Project: Interior and minor exterior renovations for accessibility improvements to the existing restrooms at the concessions building as per plans and specifications in bid package.

Electronic copies of the contract documents including drawings, technical specifications, and bid forms, may be obtained via email from Kulak-George Architects, 509 Chess Street, Monongahela, PA (Phone 724-258-2959). andrew@kulakgeorgearch.com A non-refundable payment of $100.00 payable to Kulak-George Architects is required for each set of printed contract documents; include shipping to the fee if required.

Each proposal shall be accompanied by a bidder’s bond, or certified check or cashier’s check, in favor of the County of Butler, in the amount of not less than ten percent. The County of Butler reserves the right to waive any informality in and to accept or reject any and all bids or any part of any bid. No bid may be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days.

Bidders must submit with their bids the non-collusion affidavit contained in the contract documents.

Prevailing wages established under the Davis-Bacon Act will apply to this contract. The contract documents contain requirements addressing prevailing labor wage rates, labor standards, nondiscrimination in hiring practices, goals for minority and female participation, MBE and WBE participation, participation by Section 3 residents and businesses and related matters.

FURNISHED ROOM with all amenities conveniently located in the Hill District JAMES (412) 924-8678.

DIRECTOR OF CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE Pittsburgh Regional Transit is seeking a Director of Customer Experience to act as the liaison between various departments within the organization to promote an excellent customer experience.

Using data, customer engagement tools, and customer complaints, this position will work with multiple departments to foster a better understanding of customer and organizational needs to develop enhanced customer communications and employee training to implement an engagement plan of action.

Essential Functions: •Serves as the point of contact between Customer Service and Operations group by establishing and implementing a new discourse on the way customer service complaints are handled and disbursed internally.

• Collaborate with Communications and Marketing departments in development and deployment of a customer-centric strategy that will provide a better experience for all customers both internally and externally.

• Working with training department, ensure that customer service training curriculum is relevant and up to date.

• Provide aid and guidance to customer service representative and supervisors on receipt of significant complaints with determination of appropriate department to address.

• Identify complaints of significance that require more investigation, collaborate with relevant department in directing communication with external customers.

Job requirements include: • High School Diploma or GED. • BA/BS Degree in Communication, Human Resources, Business or directly related field from an accredited school. Directly related experience may be substituted for the education on a year-for-year basis.

• Five (5) years of experience at a management level experience, with minimum of three (3) years in a transit related field.

• Professional and effective communication skills, must be able to prepare status reports, create communications content, present in front of both internal and external customers, read, and write routine reports and correspondence.

Strong understanding of Pittsburgh Regional Transit operations procedures, regulations, and policies.

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

• Valid PA driver’s license.

Preferred attributes: • Master’s degree in Communications, Education or Psychology.

• Strong networking and Interpersonal skills are a must.

• Experience in preparing presentations and reports.

• Problem-solving and analytical skills, ability to interpret data and make actionable.

• Ability to use technology and social media to advance organizational goal of improved customer engagement.

SUPERVISING INTERNAL AUDITOR Pittsburgh Regional Transit is seeking a Supervising Internal Auditor to supervise the activities of Internal Audit within the framework of policies, objectives, and procedures established by the Director of Internal Audit and Chief Legal Officer.

Essential Functions: • Exercises general supervision of all supporting auditors in order to promote productive (meet targets and other deadlines) and professional conduct.

• Ensures that professional standards are met in the planning, execution, data accumulation and documentation stages of audits and projects.

• Promotes reasonable adherence to established audit plans, budgets, and schedules or to assure adequate explanation for deviations.

Job requirements include: • BA/BS Degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or directly related field from an accredit school.

• Minimum of five (5) years auditing experience.

• Minimum of three (3) years proven supervisory experience.

• Experience with planning and executing complex audit assignments, conducting portions of extensive audit assignments in accordance with recognized professional standards.

Performing surveys of functions and activities in assigned areas and identified key control points in the system under review. Determining the direction, and audit theory for audits, develops comprehensive audit programs and sampling plans, and proposes staff and time requirements for performance of audit.

• Experience directing, counseling and instructing supporting auditors assigned to the audit and reviews their working papers for adequacy and accuracy, reviews and edits audit report and finalizes all reports.

• Must have the ability to travel to various Pittsburgh Regional Transit locations, and occasional evenings and weekends as needed to perform audits.

• Eff ect ive and pr of essional communication skills.

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

Preferred attributes: • Master’s degree in a financial or business-related field.

• Minimum eight (8) years Internal Auditing experience.

• Knowledge of Government Auditing Standards (GAS) • CIA, CFE, CPA or other related professional certification program that would enhance the performance of their internal auditor duties.

• Experience using audit software.

• Experience with business process improvement (BPI).

LEGAL ADVERTISING

BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Leslie A. Osche, Chairman Kimberly D. Geyer Kevin E. Boozel ATTEST: Lori Altman Chief Clerk LEGAL ADVERTISING Articles of Incorporation

ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION NONPROFIT CORPORATION

Jay Arthur Gilmer, Esq., 7246 Campania Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206. Notice is hereby given that Articles of Incorporation were filed with the Department of State of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, on June 14, 2022, with respect to a nonprofit corporation, T.L.P. MINISTRIES, which has been incorporated under the Nonprofit Corporation Law of 1988.

LEGAL ADVERTISING Legal Notices

JOB OPPORTUNITIES Help Wanted

SOFTWARE DEVELOPER ProMiles Software Development Corporation, headquartered in Bridge City, TX, has work-at-home Software Developer position in Moon Township, PA (w/ability to telecommute w/approp. telecommuting sys.; remote worksite must be w/in c o mmu ti n g d istance of Moon Township, PA for weekly trips to office) to be responsible for: bridge engnrng software design; bridge engnrng software dvlpmnt; database design & admin; req’ts gathering; & tech support. Apply online at https://www.promiles.com/.

ALLEGHENY COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF EQUITY AND INCLUSION Department Overview: The Minority, Women, and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (MWDBE) Program provides maximum opportunities for Minority, Women, and Disadvantaged business enterprises (MBEs, WBEs and DBEs) to participate in county contracts. The department certifies business enterprises as disadvantaged (per Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Section 49: Parts 23 & 26) and provide services and resources to help them grow their business.

Office Clerk Greeting clients; Answers the telephone, responds to inquiries, or routes phone calls and takes messages for office staff; Operates office machines such as photocopies and scanners; Performs data entry; Scans documents into document control system; Completes other administrative tasks as necessary. Must be proficient in Microsoft Windows and Office Suite.

Certification Analyst Performs analysis and investigative work in the certification process.

This includes the desk and field audits that verify businesses meet the criteria set forth in the certification process regulations; Creates certification reports; Uses due diligence to make certification recommendations; Reviews business documentation and performs size analysis for continued certification eligibility; Attends and hosts meetings, workshops, counseling sessions and outreach events; Performs other duties as necessary.

Contract Compliance Specialist The Contract Compliance Specialist will monitor contracts to ensure that MWDBEs are provided the maximum opportunity to obtain and perform on county contracts while in compliance with Allegheny County’s goals. The specialist will also provide outreach and technical assistance to the business community. In addition, the Contract Compliance Specialist will review and vet prime contractors’ MWDBE inclusion plans for various types of contracts (i.e., construction, services, supplies, etc.). The specialist will monitor MWDBE commitments and utilization through contract completion, address, and monitor MWDBE concerns and assist in conflict resolution if necessary.

Residency: Must become a resident of Allegheny County within one (1) year of appointment.

Veterans’ Preference: Will be awarded to eligible candidates.

Applicants must possess and maintain a v a l i d Pe n n syl vani a D ri ver ’s License throughout employment.

Estate of EDWARD LEE MOSLEY, JR., Deceased, of Pittsburgh, PA 15235, No.: 03575 of 2022, Marisa L. Mosley, 202 Walpole Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15235, Adm or to Sheila M. Ford, Attys., 6419 Stanton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206 Estate of DAVID A. QUEST, SR., deceased of Pittsburgh, No.: 4521 of 2022, Lisa B. Quest, Administrator, 2620 Espy Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15216 or to c/o Jacqueline H. Brangard, Esquire, Scolieri Law Group, P.C., 1207 Fifth Avenue, Suite 200, Bldg., Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Estate of MS. ROSE E. PARKIN A/K/A ROSE ELLEN PARKIN, deceased of 2633 Glasgow Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15204, Estate No.: 02-2200830, Mr. Edward Freiberger, Administrator, c/o Max C. Feldman, Esquire and the Law Office of Max C. Feldman, 1322 Fifth Avenue, Coraopolis, PA 15108 Estate of MR. JOHN EDWARD PARKIN, deceased of 2633 Glasgow Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15204, Estate No.: 02-22-01477, Mr. Edward Freiberger, Administrator, c/o Max C. Feldman, Esquire and the Law Office of Max C. Feldman, 1322 Fifth Avenue, Coraopolis, PA 15108 Estate of BARBARA HYDE, deceased, of Pittsburgh, No. 022204087. John M. Branch, 1120 Hodgkiss St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 appointed Administrator June 23, 2022 or Peter B. Lewis, Neighborhood Legal Services, 928 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, Attorney for Estate.

Estate of WILLIAM L. THOMPSON, deceased, of Pittsburgh, No. 022204086. Gail Spencer, 740 Anaheim Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 appointed Executrix June 23, 2022 or Peter B. Lewis, Neighborhood Legal Services, 928 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, Attorney for Estate.

COURIER CLASSIFIEDS… THE ONLY WAY TO GO! COURIER CLASSIFIEDS

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

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

Please see career page for further information and eligibility requirements at: www.alleghenycounty.us/careers FOCUS ON RENEWAL in McKees Rocks, PA is hiring for the following positions: THE TRAUMA SUPPORT SPECIALIST will work as part of a team of individuals with specialized skills committed to providing trauma-informed outreach, engagement, assessment and casemanagement services to community members. Job requirements: • Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, counseling or a related field or Certified as a Peer Support Specialist • Minimum of two years’ experience in supportive counseling individuals with various mental health or behavioral health conditions THE HOUSING SUPPORT SPECIALIST a s s i s ts w i th p l anni ng, maki ng recommendations and coordinating strategies and activities to expand the availability of housing and housingrelated services to community members. Job requirements: • High school diploma or equivalent; post-secondary education and/or Bachelor’s degree preferred • Working knowledge of social service agencies and community services • Knowledge of regulatory standards and property management More details about these jobs and other positions are available on Focus on Renewal’s website: w w w. f o r s t o r o x . o r g , C a r e e r Opportunities. Applications are accepted through our website.

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BOARD MEMBER POSITION The Brashear Association, Inc. is a social services agency supporting and enriching individuals, families, and community organizations in South Pittsburgh. Brashear is seeking leaders to join the dynamic board of directors. The Nominating Committee is accepting applications until August 31st. For more information and to apply, visit our website at www.brashearassociation.org

Danielle Jacobson Employment Department 345 Sixth Avenue, 3rd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15222-2527 DJacobson@portauthority.org EOE SOUTH FAYETTE TWP. SCHOOL DISTRICT is seeking a MIDDLE SCHOOL SPECIAL EDUCATION SUBSTITUTE TEACHER (MATH FOCUSED) Deadline 4:00 PM, August 10, 2022 Complete job description and directions on how to apply are available at: www.southfayette.org SOUTH FAYETTE TWP. SCHOOL DISTRICT is seeking a HEAD VARSITY GIRLS LACROSSE COACH Complete job description and directions on how to apply are available at: www.southfayette.org Applications must be received by 4:00 PM August 9, 2022

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FT POLICE OFFICERS Penn Hills Municipality is looking to hire FT Police Officers, Act 120 not required to apply. Please visit https://pennhillspa.gov/employment/ for more info.

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SPORTS

AUGUST 3-9, 2022

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

The merry, merry-go-round of Steelers backup quarterbacks How long will Chris Oladokun stick around?

In my opinion, “Training Camp 2022” officially began on Monday, Aug. 1. Camp “unofficially” began on July 26, when the players reported. But the snap, crackle and chiropractic bone poppin’ did not begin until the first day of Augustus when the players stopped their tiptoeing through the tulips and got to crackin’ because Tiny Tim was nowhere to be found…you diggg.

Now first-round pick QB Kenny Pickett, the standout from Pitt, got some great news from the door because he finally was given the opportunity to step under center with the second-team offense and get some reps. Pickett was elevated behind starter Mitch Trubisky for the moment.

He got two repetitions in the practice-opening Seven Shots drill and remained with the second team for the rest of the day.

Now hear this. Mason Rudolph continues to remind me of his former mentor, the now-defunct Steelers QB Landry “Mr. Clipboard” Jones, the former Steelers career backup to the tired and retired Ben Roethlisberger. Have the Steelers and Mason Rudolph been infected with a “variant” of the Landry Jones syn-

drome? Did the Black and Gold lose former Steelers and present Cleveland Browns QB Joshua Dobbs, twice because they held onto Landry Jones a bit too long, hoping that Mr. Jones would somehow morph into a quality NFL starting QB, ready, willing, and able to come blazing out of the barn to replace “Big” Ben out on the range when Roethlisberger finally decided to hang up his spurs and break camp? Will Mason Rudolph be to Mitch Trubisky, what Landry Jones was to Ben Roethlisberger?

To most informed observers, Landry Jones only earned a Ph.D. in “sideline etiquette” and “bench-ology.” He was a mere maintainer seemingly worried only about getting paid and with the passion of a “Barbie Doll;” completely satisfied by being second banana. I have a sneaking suspicion that QB Chris Oladokun is not going to hang around three or four years hoping and dreaming to be elevated on the depth chart of the Steelers.

As far as passion goes, other than the “racially insensitive” incident that happened during the 2019 season between Mason Rudolph and Cleveland

Browns defensive lineman Myles Garrett, Rudolph appeared to very seldom be (at least to me) ultra-hyped about being a bona fide NFL starter. Instead of “just win baby,” the only attitude that I could pick up from him was, “just pay me baby.”

The conflict with Myles Garrett seemed to be based on the reality that Rudolph seemed to be annoyed and

embarrassed because the “Brownies” were beating him up as if he were just caught stealing from Walmart. Rudolph seemed to be sort of a ho-hum kind of guy. Will QB Chris Oladokun have a genuine opportunity to make the team?

If past actions are an indicator, you may bet your grandmother’s last slab of ribs and jar of moonshine that Oladokun will be cut or land on the practice squad before or during the 2022 season because he isn’t getting (at least not up to this

point) a legitimate opportunity to make the team. Are the Steelers destined to repeat history by holding onto Mason Rudolph too long, hence permitting a new Mason Rudolph “variant” of the Landry Jones syndrome to infect the team and eventually lose QB Chris Oladokun, whom they drafted in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL draft?

The Steelers’ second-round draft pick this year, WR George Pickens, out of Georgia, seems to have more football intellect and maturity than many rookie picks and if he stays healthy, the Black and Gold may have chosen a star for the future. T.J. Watt is, well, just T.J. Watt; a hard-worker and a leader by sample and example.

Cam Heyward is truly the son of “Ironhead.” With Cam there are no ifs, ands, buts or maybes; just grits and gravy, baby. When you face Cam Heyward, bring your hard hat, lunch pail, and plenty of water to stay hydrated because trust me, it’s going to be a long and hot afternoon or evening.

I was able to grab a few ingredients from Steelers Camp 2022 take to my bakery. Now let’s see if we have enough to bake a cake.

STEELERS QUARTERBACK CHRIS OLADOKUN

Reflecting on Bill Russell and Nichelle Nichols :10—The world lost one of its all-time greatest legends, leasers and heroes with the passing of Mr. Bill Russell. It would take three more weeks to list all of his accomplishments but most notably...The greatest winner in any team sport ever with 11 rings as player and later player/coach with the Boston Celtics.

The first African American to be the head coach of any major sports team.

Led the San Francisco University Dons to backto-back NCAA titles (Note: overlooked as the national MVP as a junior, he declined to accept the award as a senior—Hoo-Rah!).

Then, to really cement his legacy, in his spare time he marched with Dr. King and stood alongside Muhammad Ali, Jim Brown and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to fight the racism and slave ownership position of sports team owners. :09—FYI...Just a little name-dropping, as you know I have no shame in doing, I had the great pleasure of meeting Mr. Russell as a junior in college at the great Slippery Rock University. As Director of the Entertainment Committee I picked the basketball legend up at the airport as he was a guest speaker at our Black Arts Festival. And then once again, amazingly, as a member of the Heinz History Center African American Pittsburgh Black History Committee, as Mr. Russell was a keynote speaker at a History Center Black History unveiling. Did he remember me? Of course not, c’mon man! :08—It’s “Showtime,” boys and girls. The Steelers schedule is out. Here’s a quick peek—Seattle, August 13; Jacksonville, the 20th; Detroit, the 28th.

Regular Season: Cincinnati (September 11), New England (Sept. 18), Cleveland (Sept. 22), NY Jets (Oct.

NICHELLE NICHOLS 2), Buffalo (Oct. 9), Tampa (Oct. 16), Miami (Oct. 23), Philly (Oct. 30), then their bye week. New Orleans (Nov. 13), Cincinnati (Nov. 20), Indianapolis (Nov. 28), Atlanta (Dec. 4), Baltimore (Dec. 11), Carolina (Dec. 18), Las Vegas (Dec. 24), Baltimore (Jan. 1, 2023), Cleveland (Jan. 8, 2023). :07—Here’s how you connect the dots... if you raced home from school during the years of 1966-1969 to see Star Trek, that makes it a sport. To that, we bid a heartfelt outer space farewell to Ms. Nichelle Nichols, aka Lt. Uhura, who passed away on July 30 at age 89. A multitude of achievements and “Firsts” but the one that gets talked about the most—the

first Black woman to kiss a White man on national TV. In 1968 Lt. Uhura shared an intimate kiss with Captain James T. Kirk, aka

William Shatner. That’s a double Hoo-Rah!! :06 —This just in. Hats off to Joan, Rev. Sis, Peggy, Carla, Charlotte and all the members of the Banfield Congregation—A Fan-tas-tic time had by all at the reunion. We did it!

(Photos to follow soon.) :05—Sometimes it’s just all about the timing. Our Pirates, mired in a seven-game losing streak, 4062 now as of Sunday, July 31, last place in our division and shed some players at the trade deadline for prospects as they annually do. And wouldn’t you know it, slick fielding SS/2B Kevin Newman has picked this time to come off the injured list and just rake the last few weeks, jacking his batting average up to .289 with an on base percentage of .338 and an OPS of .421, all stellar numbers. Newman, luckily, has a bit of a pedigree having hit .308 for the 2019 season and has always been regarded as a very good fielder so there is

going to be plenty of interest in acquiring him. Thus, get set to bid Kevin goodbye, he will be hitting and fielding for a contender in a matter of days. Good luck Kevin and here’s hoping you get a ring. :04—You just never know.

Hold on to the good times as long as you can. Mike Trout, 3-time MVP of the Los Angeles Angels and justly regarded as the best ballplayer in MLB the past 12 years and a once-in-a-generation talent, has been diagnosed with a costovertebral dysfunction at T5, a back injury so severe his doctor said he’d never heard of or encountered such an injury in a baseball player before.

The specifics of his injury

I’ll leave to the experts but the Angels and his doctor have said it’s so serious that his career could be severely limited in the future or prematurely ended. A first-ballot Hall of Famer, Trout will now have to deal with this injury for the rest of his playing days and for a man on his way to a 600 home-run pace and spectacular, 5-tool player on a nightly basis, that’s got to be a tough pill to swallow.

Enjoy it while you can everyone because you never know when something might unexpectedly derail you. :03—You all know that what I know about golf can literally be put inside one of the dimples on a golf ball. But I do know this—you can camouflage the LIV Golf insurrection against the PGA but it’s an attempted overthrow of our sports democracy. The PGA golfers that took the money... when most didn’t need it ... are sellouts to assassins and the money behind the 9-11 murderers/ terrorists. You were thinking it all along, I said it. :02—Of course I want Kenny Pickett to be the man. But, as I’ve said more than once, from an above-average ACC Conference with above-average talent and a below-average Clemson team to the starting QB spot on an NFL team...that, my friends, is a big step. But let’s hope he gets it done. I believe in Coach Tomlin so I believe in Kenny Pickett. (And yes I’m trying to have it both ways!) :01—Back to the Pirates... they almost had me, I mean I was calling baseball purists Kevin Cameron and Tim Kearns out for not being homers, drinking the Kool-Aid, and then someone turned on the stadium lights and the real Pirates were there, again. Man!!! :00—GAME OVER.