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Gun ownership drops in U.S., but support for gun rights grows

Former boxing champ encourages inventors

Pittsburgh Jazzlive Festival fundraiser

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Pittsburgh Courier NEW

VOL. 107, NO. 25

Published Weekly

Three Sections

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JUNE 22-28, 2016

Bryant joins county police

‘Watershed moment’

Hamlet supporters and critics confront city school board

SHOWING UNITY—Parents, teachers, and activist rally outside Pittsburgh School Board offices in support of incoming Superintendent Anthony Hamlet ahead of a public meeting June 20. (Photos by J.L. Martello)

by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer

Chanting “Our schools, our board,” members of the Pittsburgh Interfaith Impact Network, and their allies in the Service Employees International Union, parents and teachers rallied outside the Pittsburgh Board of Education Building in Oakland declaring their support for embattled incoming Superintendent Anthony Hamlet, and calling it a “watershed moment for the community.”

Kate Darren, a history teacher at CAPA, said the scrutiny of Hamlet’s resume, which uncovered embellished improvement claims and instances of plagiarism, is an example of systemic racism. Hamlet is Black.

“I want this school board to remain elected and to stay strong and keep Dr. hamlet,” she said.

That is exactly the argument Co-chairman of the Hill District Education Council Sala Udin said would be made in Hamlet’s support in a letter to the media several days earlier.

STANDING FIRM—Pittsburgh Interfaith Impact Network President Rev. Rodney Lyde calls on the Pittsburgh School Board to “Hold the line” and support incoming Superintendent Anthony Hamlet. (Photos by J.L. Martello)

He said Hamlet cannot be the role model for the district young Black men that his supporters envision, not after these issues with his credentials have come to light.

Udin reiterated that though racism has been rampant in Pittsburgh’s past treatment of Black men, this isn’t one of those incidents.

“Even if we concede the ‘racism’ argument, we are left with a Superintendent background that is severely lacking in the kind of Excellent Experience our district needs in the Superintendent to replace Dr. Linda Lane,” he wrote.

“Dr. Hamlet has many redeeming characteristics, but he has never been a superintendent of any school district, or even a deputy superintendent. He certainly may have been the most qualified applicant among those that Dr. Perkins brought forward, but the School Board lowered the standards of requiring someone experienced in managing a large urban school district; experienced in managing a budget of a half billion dollars; experienced in SEE HAMLET A4

Maurita J. Bryant will officially begin her duties as assistant superintendent of the Allegheny County Police June 27. County Manager announced the hiring late last week.

Bryant recently retired from the City of Pittsburgh’s Bureau of Police as Assistant Chief of Investigations after 38 years on the force. She served 23 years in a supervisory capacity.

She joined the Bureau as a recruit in 1977.

MAURITA BRYANT Bryant had applied for the top job after former Superintendent Charles Moffatt announced his retirement, but the post went to Coleman McDonough, who officially started June 13. County spokesperson Amie Downs said McDonough made the call to hire Bryant after meeting her and completing a through review of the department.

Bryant holds a Masters of Administration of Criminal Justice and a Bachelor of Science of Criminal Justice, both from Point Park University, and is also the past president of the Pittsburgh Chapter of the National Organization of Black Women in Law Enforcement. Her annual salary will be $95,000.

Low homicide number may mask true violence level

by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer

As shown in the latest Allegheny County homicide count—compiled by the New Pittsburgh Courier every month—there were eight homicides in May, with five of them in the city of Pittsburgh.

While that is among the lowest monthly totals in the city in recent years, it wasn’t for lack of trying.

Between May 1, when Gerald Harris and Isha Tyree, were fatally shot moments apart on the North Side, and May 27, when Mark Lopata’s shot and beaten corpse was found in his Elliot apartment, 17 individuals received non-fatal gunshots and one other survived a stabbing, in SEE HOMICIDE A5

Push for inclusion continues Zappala: Kelley Jr.

by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer

FIRED UP—Corporate Equity and Inclusion Roundtable founder Tim Stevens revs up the crowd at the Fourth Annual CEIR event at the Duquesne University Power Center Ballroom, June 20.

(Photos by J.L. Martello)

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shooting justified

Unlike past years, the fourth annual Corporate Equity and Inclusion Roundtable did not focus solely on getting more African Americans into the “C-suite” upper echelons of Pittsburgh’s corporate community, but also on expanding corporate supply chains to include Black-owned service and manufacturing firms.

It even went further to include not just expanding the recruiting, hiring, developing, promoting and retention of more African Americans, but also looked at creating entrepreneurial opportunities for individuals to write their own ticket.

To that end, the panel discussions included not only corporate leaders like Rahmon Hart, who is transforming the diversity signature at the Rivers Casino, and Steve Massaro, who created an in-house construction training program for Blacks, but also entrepreneurs like Dan Bull, who is creating opportunities for ex-offenders in a number of fields, and Greg Spencer, who knows both sides, as a former energy executive and now the owner of a chemical manu-

On Jan. 31, Bruce Kelley Jr. died in a fusillade of bullets fired by Port Authority of Allegheny County police officers after he fatally stabbed a dog they had set on him.

Nearly five months later, Allegheny County District Attorney Stephen A. Zappala has ruled the shooting was justified.

His detailed analysis was posted on the District Attorney’s Facebook page June 21.

In summary, Zappala said Kelley’s actions: assualting an officer, brandishing a knife, slashing at another officer with that knife, and stabbing the police dog, “substantiates Officer (Dominic) Rivotti’s and Sergeant (Brian) O’Malley’s belief that he would continue to escape with the knife.”

He cites applicable law which states that if the officer(s) believe that, and “the perpetrator to be arrested has committed or

SEE PUSH A4

SEE KELLEY A5

by Christian Morrow Courier Staff Writer

George Curry on

Dealing with disrespect from Democrats and Republicans Forum A7

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This Week In Black History

JUNE 22-28, 2016

INTERNATIONAL

ICONIC PHOTOGRAPH—In this April 27, 2011 file photo South African photographer, Sam Nzima, poses with his iconic photo showing 13-year-old Hector Pieterson, being carried after being shot by police during the 1976 Soweto uprising. (AP Photo/Denis Farrell, File)

40 years after students sparked apartheid’s end, a new anger

by Cara Anna

Associated Press Writer

JOHANNESBURG (AP) —The day was a key moment in the long campaign to end South Africa’s harsh apartheid system of Whiteminority rule. Forty years ago, Black students in Johannesburg’s Soweto township marched in protest and some were gunned down by police, appalling the world.

South Africa has changed dramatically since June 16, 1976, when the high school students defied being forced to study in Afrikaans, the language of their White rulers, and hundreds were killed as the protests spread across the country. In 1990, Nelson Mandela was freed from prison, later winning the Nobel Peace Prize and becoming the country’s first Black president. In 1994, Blacks got the right to vote. “Whites only” barriers fell.

But a new wave of student protests, over fees charged for higher education, show the country remains starkly divided between the haves and havenots. Although living conditions have improved, many Blacks are still in poor neighborhoods without electricity or running water in their homes.

Meanwhile, concerns are growing that a new Black

Elaine Effort

elite is plundering the country’s wealth.

“What has changed?

Nothing has changed,” said Seth Mazibuko, one of the organizers of the 1976 Soweto protest who is today the head of the June 16 Youth Development Foundation. “When we were fighting, we were saying doors must be opened to all. Now these doors, when they open, they’re closed for those who do not have money.”

Economic stress is widespread. In a country where the well-off, including most Whites, live behind high walls and enjoy sleek malls and international chains including the newly arrived Starbucks, more than a quarter of the 55 million people are unemployed, official statistics say. Unofficially, it’s higher.

Many of those who supported the Soweto uprising 40 years ago are troubled by the protests of today, in which students or others have burned schools and other community structures.

“You can fight whatever you want to fight, but don’t burn down what belongs to you,” said Peter Magubane, whose photographs of the students’ clash with police in 1976 helped rivet the world’s attention on the apartheid regime.

At the nearby Apartheid Museum, where visitors re-

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ceive tickets that randomly designate them as White or Black and enter through corresponding doors, archivist Jacqui Masiza says she gets emotional putting together the narrative of the 1976 uprising.

She was a 10-year-old student in Soweto at the time.

Economic equality is not yet where South Africa’s people want it to be, she said. She understands why this generation of students is angry and says that promises made have not yet been fulfilled.

But 40 years ago, the student protest leaders were more disciplined, Masiza said. “If you can find leaders like that among our youth right now, that would be so greatly appreciated.”

To today’s generation of students, that sounds like a challenge.

Students once again marched through Soweto last weekend, following one of the routes used by the protesters in 1976. This time the students, as well as church leaders and survivors, were protected by police, both Black and White.

Sizwe Makhubo, 17, expressed optimism for South Africa, mixed with frustration.

A high school like his in Soweto can have about 1,000 students, and yet the government offers it just three scholarships, he said.

“So only the top three students get to go to university, and what does that say about the rest?”

Such competition for a decent future can breed hatred, he said. Undaunted, the slightly built Makhubo said he hopes to become a lawyer, a politician, and make South Africa a better place.

“Let’s show this old generation we’re not as lost as they think we are,” he said.

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Week of May 22-28 May 22 1863—The War Department establishes the Bureau of Colored Troops and began to aggressively recruit Blacks for the Civil War. The Black troops would play a major role in turning the tide of battle against the rebellious Southern slave states.

1959—Benjamin O. Davis Jr. becomes the first African-American general in the U.S. Air Force. His father, Benjamin O. Davis Sr., had been the first Black general in the U.S. Army.

1966—Entertainer Bill Cosby becomes the first African-American to receive an Emmy for Best Actor in a dramatic series—for his role in the 1960s television series “I Spy.” May 23 1921—“Shuffle BENJAMIN O. DAVIS JR. Along”—the first of a succession of widely popular Black musicals performed for White audiences—opened at the 63rd Street Theatre in New York City, becoming the first African-American Broadway musical. The musical comedy combined the talents of the legendary team of Eubie Blake and Noble Sissle. “Shuffle Along” produced a long list of hits including “Shuffle Along,” “I’m Just Wild about Harry,” “Gypsy Blues” and “Love Will Find A Way.” 1981—Legendary Reggae artist Bob Marley is given an official state funeral in his homeland of Jamaica. He had died of cancer on May 11 in Miami. Marley and his band “The Wailers” had made Reggae popular worldwide with such hits as “Stir It Up” and “No Woman, No Cry.” He was considered the first third world superstar and a prophet of the Rastafarian religion. He was only 36 when he died. His body now lies in a mausoleum in Jamaica.

May 24 EUBIE BLAKE and NOBLE SISSLE 1854—Anthony Burns, one of the most celebrated fugitive slaves in American history, is captured by deputy U.S. Marshals in Boston. But at the time antislavery feeling was running high in Boston and it was one of the cities which had vowed not to obey the Fugitive Slave Act—a federal law that required even those opposed to slavery to help slave owners capture runaway slaves. For fear that Boston residents would help Burns escape to Canada, the U.S. government sent 2,000 troops to Boston to assist in returning Burns to Virginia.

Thousands lined the streets as Burns was marched to a ship on June 3 for a trip back South. However, a Black Boston church raised the money to purchase Burns and within a year of his capture, he was back in Boston a free man.

1856—The so-called Pottawatomie Massacre takes place. A force of men led by famed abolitionist John ANTHONY BURNS Brown attacks a pro-slavery settlement in Franklin County, Kan., leaving at least five men dead. The attack was part of a period known as “Bleeding Kansas” when pro and anti-slavery forces battled one another in a bid to determine whether Kansas would be a slave or free territory. The “Pottawatomie Massacre” was also one of the events which made the Civil War unavoidable.

1944—Legendary singer Patti LaBelle is born Patricia Louise Holte in Philadelphia, Pa. June 25 1773—Massachusetts slaves petition for their freedom. As a result of the petition, a bill ending slavery in the state was actually drawn up and passed by the legislature. But the governor refused to sign it and there were not enough votes to override his veto.

1941—President Franklin D. Roosevelt issues Executive Order #8802 banning racial discrimination in the nation’s war industries on the eve of America’s involvement in World War II. The order came as a result of pressure from Black labor leader A. Phillip Randolph who had threatened a massive “March on Washington” to protest discrimination by the military and the military industry.

1968—Lincoln Alexander becomes the first Black member of the Canadian parliament.

2009—Pop music superstar Michael Jackson dies of cardiac arrest in his Los Angeles home after reportedly being given a powerful sedative (propofol) to help him A. PHILLIP RANDOLPH sleep. Jackson was 50 years old and was in the process of preparing a major comeback tour. His doctor Conrad Murray was charged with and found guilty of manslaughter in the case.

June 26 1899—Black inventor William H. Richardson redesigns the baby carriage. While the idea for the baby carriage is nearly 300 years old, Richardson’s patent, filed at the Boston patent office, included several new features including a special joint which allowed the bassinet to be turned to face the mother or whoever was pushing the carriage.

Many of Richardson’s designs are still in use today. [There is some authority that Richardson’s patent was actually filed on June 18.]

1942—Harvard medical student, Bernard W. Robinson, becomes the first African-American to win a commission to the United States Navy.

June 27 1872—Paul Lawrence Dunbar, one of the most popular poets in Black American history, is born in Dayton, Ohio. Dunbar first gained national recognition with a collection of works published in 1896 entitled “Lyrics of a Lowly Life,” which included “Ode to Ethiopia.” Despite the power of his poetry, Dunbar angered some Blacks who were concerned about “what will White people think” because he generally used Black dialect and not Standard English in much of his poetry. Dunbar’s first poem was published in a newspaper owned by high school friends and American airplane pioneers Orville and Wilbur Wright. The Wright PAUL LAWRENCE DUNBAR brothers would also provide Dunbar with funds to open the Dayton Tattler—a newspaper geared toward the city’s Black community. Unfortunately, Dunbar died at the age of 34 in 1906 of Tuberculosis.

June 28 1839—Cinque (original name Senghbe), after being kidnapped and sold into slavery, is placed on the Spanish slave ship Amistad. The son of a King of the Mende (Mendi) tribe in West Africa would lead the most successful revolt on a slave ship during the entire history of the slave trade. The Amistad was captured by the slaves who killed the captain and attempted to sail the ship to Africa. But due to delaying tactics by the remaining White crew, the ship was captured by a U.S. naval ship.

Cinque and the rebellious slaves were taken to New Haven, Conn., and put on trial for murder. Amazingly they won their case and were allowed to return to Africa.

1971—Muhammad Ali is allowed to box again after winning a victory in the United States Supreme Court.

The court overturned his conviction for refusing to be drafted and serve in the United States war in VietCINQUE nam. When asked how he could claim to be a pacifist opposed to war while being a professional boxer, Ali’s most frequent response was, “I am not going 10,000 miles from here to help murder and kill and burn poor people to help continue the domination of White slavemasters over the darker people.”

1978—The United States Supreme Court hands down the Bakke Decision which undermined affirmative action programs that had been designed to give preference to Blacks and other minorities in education and industry in order to compensate for decades of past discrimination. Although the court ruled affirmative action programs were constitutional; it struck down the use of quotas and that had the effect of weakening the affirmative action proMUHAMMAD ALI grams.

NATIONAL

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

JUNE 22-28, 2016

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Chaos in all corners: club gunman sprayed bullets everywhere

by Allen G. Breed, Jason Dearen and Tamara Lush Associated Press Writers

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP)—“Please, don’t let my hand go,” Eddie Justice begged Demetrice Naulings. The two best friends huddled together in the women’s bathroom with about 40 other terrified club-goers.

Panic welled in Naulings’ chest. “I was like, ‘I can’t be in this bathroom,”’ he recalled, feeling it meant certain death.

“Because they closed the door, but we could still hear the gun. And people were yelling, ‘Let me in, please!’ And I was like, ‘Let me out!”’

So clutching Justice’s left hand in his right, Naulings and his friend bolted from the bathroom at the Pulse nightclub.

When Justice implored him to hold on tight, Naulings said: “The face that he gave me was just, ‘I’m afraid. And I know with you, you gonna get me out.”’

Inside the club, dozens of people wailed and screamed in pain. Shots, seemingly endless, continued to ring out. Some club-goers—stained with their own blood, or with the blood of others—hid under a bar, while others ran wildly in every direction.

Dozens tried to push toward a hallway leading outside. Naulings had hosted parties at Pulse and knew there was a gate just beyond that. Could they reach it?

And then it happened. Somehow, in the crush of panicked people clogging the narrow hallway, Naulings let go of his friend’s hand. Eddie was gone.

As Naulings looked back for him, a woman directly behind him was shot.

People were “stumbling over her and walking over her,” he said.

He dashed outside and ran across the street to a Dunkin Donuts, where he received a text from his friend. “I’ve been shot,” he recalled Justice writing. “I’m going into shock.”

All around the club, people dialed 911 and reached out to relatives any way they could. One of them was Justice, who made his way back to the bathroom and sent his first text to his mother at 2:06 a.m. Sunday, just a few minutes after Omar Mateen first entered Pulse and started spraying the crowded dance floor with an AR-15-style semi-automatic rifle.

“Mommy I love you,” the 30-year-old accountant wrote. “In club they shooting.”

Luis Burbano joined the crush of humanity trying to push through the hallway to safety, but few could: Club-goers had toppled atop each other and there was no way out.

“I can’t begin to describe,” Burbano said.

“People were ready to force themselves through, but they couldn’t.”

SURVIVOR—Demetrice Naulings cries while recalling in an interview how he survived the mass shooting at the Pulse nightclub that claimed the life of his friend Eddie Justice June 14, in Orlando, Fla. “I’m not going to get a chance to get another friend like that anymore,” said Naulings. “Eddie was my angel.” (AP Photo/David Goldman) As the sound of the gunshots came closer, Burbano made a decision that now haunts him: He briefly closed the door leading from the club to the hallway to give people time to wriggle out. If the killer knew where they were stacked up, “we were all going to be done,” he said.

When Burbano finally pushed through the hallway and escaped through a hole in a perimeter fence, the first thing he saw was a man with his arm virtually destroyed by a barrage of bullets.

Back in two of the bathrooms, the hell wore on for almost three hours. People tried to be as still as possible and many played dead as the shooter stalked the club, firing and reloading.

“Over and over and over again” is how Angel Santiago described the shooting, reverberating as he hid in a stall. “It kept getting louder and closer.”

And then the shooter was there: Bullets punched through the wall of the stall where Santiago had taken shelter, ripping into his left foot and right knee.

The shots stopped. Santiago heard the gunmen enter a nearby bathroom: More gunfire. More screaming. He and others shushed the petrified people around them, fearing their panic would draw the gunman back.

After the gunman shot Patience Carter

STANDING GUARD—In this Tuesday, June 11, 1996 file photo, Black Panthers member Najee Mtume carries his rifle as he tours the New Light House of Prayer Church in Greenville, Texas. Officials said the African American church that burned Sunday evening was set by an arsonist. (AP Photo/Ron Heflin/ File)

Gun ownership drops in US, but support for gun rights grows

by Larry Fenn and Angeliki Kastanis Associated Press Writers

A look at gun ownership and attitudes about gun control in the United States: •Gun ownership has decreased among all age, race and gender groups since 1973. At its peak in that time frame, in 1977, 50.4 percent of households had guns. By 2014, just 31 percent of households did.

•The drop was most pronounced among younger Americans. Among 18- to 25-year-olds, the ownership rate fell from 45 percent to 13 percent.

•Black gun ownership has dropped 75 percent since 1973; White gun ownership has decreased 48 percent.

•In 2014, about one-fourth of Whites, 26 percent, owned a gun. Among Blacks, the rate was 10 percent.

•Gun owners are more likely to vote.

In 2004, 31 percent of gun owners said they voted, versus 17 percent of those without guns. In 2008, 23 percent of gun owners reported voting, compared with 17 percent of non-gun owners. In 2012, it

was 25 percent versus 19 percent.

•When asked which is more important, gun control or protecting gun rights, big gains have been recorded in those choosing gun rights, particularly in the past 15 years, leaving Americans nearly evenly split. Those favoring gun rights—29 percent of the population in 2000—grew to 47 percent by last year. Those saying gun control is more important declined from 57 percent to 50 percent in the same period.

•Though a big gap still exists between Blacks and Whites, both groups have moved to valuing gun rights over gun control. In 1999, 17 percent of Blacks favored gun rights over gun control, compared with 34 percent in 2014. Whites went from 32 percent to 61 percent.

•Republicans have moved far more swiftly than Democrats toward favoring gun rights over gun control. In 1999, 42 percent of Republicans said gun rights were more important, versus 76 percent in 2014. Among Democrats, the increase was much smaller, from 19 percent to 28 percent.

Source: Pew Research Center, General Social Survey by NORC at the University of Chicago

in the leg in the second bathroom, she tried to wedge herself into the next stall.

As she cowered, she heard him call 911 and say he wanted America to stop bombing his parents’ native Afghanistan.

Then he spoke to the club-goers in the bathroom directly, she recalled. “He said, ‘Are there any Black people in here?’ I was too afraid to answer, but there was an African-American male in the stall where most of my body was ... and he said, “Yes, there are about six or seven of us.’ And the gunman responded back to him saying that, ‘You know, I don’t have a problem with Black people. This is about my country. You guys suffered enough.”’

The gunman walked out, but he returned and ordered everyone inside to silence their phones.

“Hey, you,” he said to one man. Then he shot him. And he kept shooting people.

Justice, still hunkered down in one of the bathrooms, continued texting his mother periodically. At 2:39 a.m., he wrote that the gunman was near: “He’s coming. I’m gonna die.”

Mina Justice texted back, asking her son if anyone was hurt and which bathroom he was in. “Lots. Yes,” he responded at 2:42 a.m.

When she didn’t hear back, she kept reaching out. She asked: Was he with police? “No,” he responded four minutes later. “Still here in bathroom. He has us.

They need to come get us.”

At 2:49 a.m., she told him the police were at the club and to let her know when he saw them. “Hurry,” he wrote.

“He’s in the bathroom with us.”

At 2:50 a.m.: “He’s a terror.”

Then, the final text from her son a minute later: “Yes.” At some point in those final, excruciating moments, Mateen lied to hostage negotiators, telling them he was strapping explosives onto four of his hostages. Before that, some club-goers had indicated in 911 calls and texts to loved ones that they believed Mateen brought explosive vests into the club as part of his arsenal.

So the injured lay wounded and dying for hours while law enforcement grappled with what might be happening inside the club, as paramedics stood by helplessly.

The end came shortly before 5:15 a.m., when Carter heard a voice: “Move away from the walls.”

Police ripped through the wall with a battering ram. “Put your weapon down!

Put your weapon down!” one SWAT officer yelled. “Get guns in that hole!” another screamed.

The officers punched through the wall a second time. “Nobody move!”

In a club where hundreds had danced and drank and laughed just hours before, 49 people lay dead or dying—50, including Mateen.

Naulings learned that Justice had died when he turned on the TV later that day.

“We were in our safe zone. Our own comfort. It was where we felt happy,” he said. “That place will never be the same.

It will be a memorial site now.”

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JUNE 22-28, 2016

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

METRO

Push for inclusion continues CONTINUED FROM A1

MUSICAL LEADERS—Leah Baker Fowler, front, a young entrepreneur featured in Generation NEXT, receives a proclamation, a resolution and well wishes from Mary Esther VanShura, Allegheny County director of community affairs, representing Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald. At left, Michele Rone Cooper, executive director, McAuley Ministries and Sister Patricia McCann, chairperson of McAuley Ministries Board of Directors. At right, Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto. (Photos by Micaela Young, courtesy of McAuley Ministries).

Mayor recognizes 14 Generation Next Candidates— Young people making a difference in their lives

by Renee P. Aldrich For New Pittsburgh Courier

A Celebration was held on Wednesday, June 15, at the Hill House Association, Hillman Auditorium, recognizing the first 14 Generation NEXT Candidates. Cosponsors of this event were McAuley Ministries, BMe Community, and Mayor William Peduto as part of the My Brother’s Keeper Initiative.

Mayor Peduto was on hand to read the proclamation from the City, shared his encouragement and congratulations to the honorees, and proclaimed Wednesday, June 15, 2016, Generation NEXT Day in the City of Pittsburgh.

McAuley Ministries, Pittsburgh Mercy’s grant-making foundation, embarked on this exciting initiative in early 2015 in an effort to help change the narrative and perception of how the Pittsburgh region views its African-American youth. They established a partnership with the New Pittsburgh Courier to tell the stories of Generation NEXT – African American youth, ages 11-22, who are achieving in the classroom, volunteering in their community, starting businesses and coming entrepreneurs, creating art, and advocating for social justice.

The honorees were 13 year old entrepreneur, Leah Baker; 22 year old Carter Redwood, Carnegie Mellon alum who graduated with high honors and is currently living and working as an actor in New York City; 22 year old Kai Roberts, a Project Director at the Lighthouse Project, a skilled musician and an advocate for mental health awareness; 18 year old Amir Allen, 2016 graduate of CAPA High school, a gifted writer, an environmental champion and an advocate for social justice, 18 year old Tiger Weaver, an Amachi spokesperson and an advocate for children of incarcerated parents, 14 year old Keimon Dupree, an honor student, musician and athlete who aspires to study engineering at Harvard, 17 year old Robert Rose Johnson, and 17 year old Raynard Lucas, singer/song writers who form the group Ink and who are participants in the YMCA Lighthouse Media Arts Program in Homewood; Sisters Chandel and Cieayrra Boozer 23 and 21 respectively—Chandel studying law and Cieayrra, studying to become a Neuro-Surgeon at Temple University; 17

year old Ionie Banner, Honor Student, Penn Hills Graduate, star basketball player, and 6-time Ben Carson Scholar, 22 year old Kuwame Kinsel, advocate for social justice, mentor to youngsters for Bike Pittsburgh and a multimedia artist, 17 year old Quincy Stanley, scholar; reading tutor and mentor to elementary school students; and Terrence Johnson Hart 17 year old scholar and advocate for social justice.

Master of Ceremonies for the event was Harry Johnson, the Manager for BMe Pittsburgh, he extended a welcome and recognized the young people for their outstanding accomplishments, saying “BMe is proud to partner in this event, as these are all our next community leaders.”

Also on hand to extend words of encouragement, congratulations and wisdom to the young people were Melvin Hubbard El, Chief of Staff from the Office of State Representative Ed Gainey’s, who had each family member and supporter of these youth stand and in unison tell them how much they were loved and Mary Esther VanShura, director of Community Affairs, Allegheny County, representing County Executive, Rich Fitzgerald.

She eloquently reminded the audience of the story of Michelangelo who was asked how he sculpted such a beautiful Angel, he answered the inquiry by saying, I saw an Angel in the marble, so I carved until I set it free; to the young people she said, you are our Angels… we set you free to be your excellent selves.

Fourteen poster size replicas of each student showing the photos and article as they were featured in the New Pittsburgh Courier decorated the auditorium. The group Ink comprised of Raynard Jackson and Robert Rose Johnson, two of the honorees, rendered musical entertainment.

Michele Rone Cooper, executive director of McAuley Ministries spoke directly to the audience and the honorees when she said, “The great Muhammad Ali once said, ‘impossible is not a fact. It’s an opinion. Impossible is not a declaration. It’s a dare. Impossible is potential.’ I congratulate these young people who have taken that dare, and who inspire us with their potential.”

She continued “I have been inspired by the accomplishments of our honorees and I feel that our future is in very good hands.”

facturing firm.

One of the things Spencer and others noted is that even when corporate leadership is on board with efforts to diversify suppliers, it doesn’t always translate— especially in large corporations down to the people who do the purchasing.

“When I became an entrepreneur, the people I know from my former life—the ones with the corner offices— they don’t buy chemicals,” he said. “The people at the top do care, but somewhere between them and the decision, it doesn’t get made.”

Suresh Ramanathan, President and CEO of the KORYAK management consulting firm, put it more succinctly: “Supplier diversity dies in middle management.”

Spencer said he got so annoyed with trying to sell his chemicals in Pittsburgh— to firms that had contracts with large national firms— he took his firm international.

“My products and delivery exceed expectations, but they assume because I’m a small Black-owned com-

DORIS CARSON WILLIAMS pany I can’t be as good,” he said. “I said the hell with it and went international, now I’m selling in China, Hong Kong.”

Bull, who created a company on the South Side that employs ex-offenders to build tiny houses. has created a firm called Zero Eight Six as an incubator for start-up businesses, again focusing on ex-offenders. Zero Eight Six, he explained is the federal prison code for inmates from Pittsburgh. They were the last three digits of his number.

“We’re talking about a tal-

Hamlet supporters, critics confront city school board CONTINUED FROM A1

managing a staff of thousands of personnel; experienced in negotiating contracts with the teachers’ union.”

Udin, Urban League President and CEO Esther Bush and Carrie Harris of A+ Schools had all signed an earlier letter to the board saying that even if its investigation into his background—which wasn’t done by superintendent search director Brian Perkins— clears him, the damage is done.

All reiterated their request that the school board start over with a new search.

“More time spent deliberating only further tarnishes the reputations of Dr. Hamlet and the district,” said Harris.

Last week, the board authorized an independent review of Hamlet’s resume led by former state prosecutor Laurel Brandstetter.

Prior to the meeting, Board president Regina Holly

TRACEY REED ARMANT chair of the board of A+ read from a statement, saying the inquiry is winding down.

“We know there is urgency

ESTHER BUSH MAKING FRIENDS—Talking after the program are Generation NEXT honorees Robert Rose-Thompson, Raynard Lucas, and Kai Roberts—all of whom have an interest in music. Rose-Thompson and Lucas’ band, Ink, performed at the event.

HONOREES—Robert Rose-Thompson, left, and Raynard Lucas, right, both honored in the Generation NEXT series, perform for those in attendance with their band, Ink.

ent pool with expertise in everything from cyber security to the trades,” he said.

“At the end of one year, we have 10 companies employing 100 ex-offenders.”

Tim Stevens who built the CEIR out of workforce discussions his Black Political Empowerment Project was having with corporate and political leaders four years ago said he is pleased with the progress, and attention the roundtable is making.

“As Evan Frazier said, Highmark instituted the Rooney Rule for its executive searches last year, and it is showing dividends with hiring and promotions. And UPMC and the Rivers Casino have instituted the modified Rooney Rule for their supply chains,” he said.

“Mayor Peduto and County Executive Fitzgerald have done so and inclusive vision for the future. As Melanie Harrington said, we are doing much better with diversity and inclusion—but because we started so far behind other regions, we’ll have to do more to catch up. I’m optimistic that we can.”

RALLY—The against group listening to one of the speakers.

to complete this process,” she said. “And we are doing everything we can to move quickly yet responsibly.”

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

JUNE 22-28, 2016

METRO

A5

Low homicide number may mask true violence level CONTINUED FROM A1

12 separate incidents throughout the city. Six more individuals were nonfatally shot during four assaults over the final three days of the month.

That brought the total nonfatal shootings for May to 23, almost five times as many as the city’s homicide count.

Determining whether or not that ratio is unusually high or low, however, is difficult. Pittsburgh Department of Public Safety Information Officer Sonya Toler only recently began publicizing non-fatal shooting calls.

And while comparisons are available for 2015, no 2016 data has yet been entered into the department’s interactive gun violence or homicide websites.

Last year’s data shows that in May of 2015, there was only 10 non-fatal shootings vs. 5 homicides—making the total shootings 15, 40 percent lower than last month’s total of 28.

But that comparison may not strictly be accurate either, because the city’s gun violence website also catalogs instances of “aggra-

vated assault with a gun,” which can mean a variety of things.

Toler said that category could cover circumstances as different as one person firing at another and missing, or someone clubbing somebody with an empty gun.

“It could be just showing a gun,” she said. “Even a toy gun.”

So, it is possible that some “aggravated assaults with guns” were non-fatal shootings where the victim was not even wounded. It is also possible some refer to homicides—because the bulk of those result from “aggravated assaults with a gun.”

So, calculating whether homicides in Pittsburgh are down due to the efficacy of new police tactics or community anti-violence efforts, or to poor marksmanship or luck, or if there is any trend at all—up or down—in total shootings, is currently a statistical impossibility.

The data available from Allegheny County is even less useful—because only half of it is available; the homicides.

The Courier relies on the

Bell sues for job back

BELL SUES FOR JOB BACK—Fired WTAE news anchor Wendy Bell has filed a lawsuit against the station and its owners claiming racial discrimination and is seeking her job back. Bell was fired because of statements she made about the Wilkinsburg mass shootings on Facebook. She said the killers were probably young Black males.

Community Calendar Market Square Farmers Market

spx or call 800-851-3838.

CONTINUING—The Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership presents the 12th Annual Market Square Farmers Market from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Thursday through Oct. 27. The opening day event includes flower bulb and tree giveaways sponsored by the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. This season will also see the addition of 10 new full and part-time vendors including Two Acres Farms, A519 Chocolate and Pittsburgh Fudge Co. Again this year, Just Harvest’s Fresh Access program will allow credit/debit and food stamp EBT cards to be used to purchase fresh produce, meat, dairy and baked goods.

JUNE 28—Dollar Bank presents the 2016 HiringPittsburgh Career Expo & Operation Hire A Veteran at the Duquesne University Power Center Ballroom, 600 Forbes Avenue, Uptown. Early access for veterans runs from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and includes special opportunities for veterans, on-on-one career counseling and a continental breakfast.

The Career Expo For All runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and features employers from all job sectors, a job seeker resource center powered by Monster and on-site resume services.

Workforce Experience Program THROUGH JUNE 30—The Urban League of Pittsburgh’s Work Experience program has 38 out-of-quschool youth, ages 16 to 24, available for five hours per week on either a Thursday or Friday for four / six weeks through June 30. The Urban League pays and provides supervision to the participants.

Parties interested in taking on any of these young people may contact Director of Housing Richard Morris at 412-227-4163 to schedule interviews.

SummerFood Program THROUGH AUG. 19—The Allegheny County Department of Human Services will begin its SummerFood program offering breakfast, lunch and recreational activities for children up to 18 years old and individuals with disabilities at more than 80 sites throughout the county. For a complete list of times and locations, visit www.alleghenycounty.us/dhs/food.a

Job Expo

Application Deadline JUNE 30—The Pennsylvania State Police is accepting applications until 11:59 EDT for those wishing to take the next written exam in August. New troopers receive a starting salary of $58,962 plus applicable shift differential and overtime. New troopers and their dependents are eligible for the provided health care program, dental care program, vision care plan, prescription drug program and a health reimbursement account.

The commonwealth pays the entire cost of all coverage for the trooper and their eligible family members. For more information visit www.PATrooper.com.

KidsPlay Activities THROUGH AUG. 30—The Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership and Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh bring KidsPlay to Market Square, Downtown every Tuesday, 10 to 11:30 a.m. Kids can engage in crafts, activities, fitness fun and meet visiting celebrities and performing artists. Free to all and lunch is provided. For more information visit www.Downtown Partnership.com

CRIME SCENE—Caution tape and flashing police lights mark the sight of another city homicide.

(Photo by J.L. Martello) Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s office for its monthly homicide count because all unnatural deaths are subjected to an autopsy.

There is no central clearing house for data on gunshot wounds. And since it is not

currently tracking such data, UPMC spokesman Rich Pietzak said he could get no numbers.

“The only thing I have from UPMC Presbyterian is that there is no significant increase or decrease in the

total shootings,” he said.

Similarly, the police departments responsible for patrolling and protecting the other 129 municipalities outside Pittsburgh do not forward that data to the county to be cataloged.

It would be possible to get those numbers by going to every trauma center in the county on a regular schedule and getting the admissions data directly from the hospital staff, but no one does that—at least not anymore.

From the mid-1990s up until 2000, the staff of the Allegheny County Injury Surveillance System did.

Each year staffers drove to the trauma centers on a weekly basis and painstakingly collected and collated all the data into annual reports called, “Injury Mortality and Firearm Injury Incidence.”

The office fell victim to budget cuts under the last triumvirate of county commissioners, and has not been revived.

The Courier asked County Executive Rich Fitzgerald if he and new county Police Superintendent Coleman McDonough would pursue restarting the system, but received no response by Courier deadline.

Zappala: Kelley Jr. shooting justified CONTINUED FROM A1

attempted to commit a forcible felony or is attempting to escape and possesses a deadly weapon, or otherwise indicates he will endanger human life or inflict serious bodily injury unless arrested without delay” the use of deadly force is justifiable.

Brandi Fisher, presidnt of Citizens for Police Accountability is not happy, but surprised. “I expected it, it’s typical. Jordan Miles? Leon Ford? If he didn’t charge those officers I don’t ever expect an officer to be charged,” she said. “I understand his reasoning because he has to work with these people to win cases.

That why a special prosecutor should investigate police shootings—always.”

“We’re also calling on the authority to be more accountable,” she said. “We want an outside investigation. The Port Authority needs to implement a more transparent system—one that the public can trust.”

Port Authority Officer Emily Hampy testified dur-

ing March 3 hearing that she and Officer Tom Adams were doing a “park and walk” patrol when they found Kelley and his father Bruce Kelley Sr. drinking at a gazebo on authority property near the Wilkinsburg East Busway station.

“We just wanted to talk with them,” she told Wilkinsburg District Justice Kim Hoots, adding that Kelley Jr. began to walk away until Adams got close, then, “He charged.”

Hampy said as they struggled with the younger Kelley, he “bear hugged” onto one of the gazebo columns.

She said as she tried to pull one arm loose, he called his father for help. That was when Kelley Sr. came at her and struck her in the head.

She said she blasted him with pepper spray twice and was trying to handcuff him when the younger Kelley pulled a knife. The officers retreated and called for backup.

When they arrived, they relocated both men, arresting Kelley Sr. and after repeated failed attempts to

bring his son down with Tasers, pepper spray and batons, officer Brian O’Malley yelled that he would release his dog Aren.

Kelley Jr., who can be seen in a surveillance video waving a small knife as he walked away from the 12 or so officers now following him, responded that he would kill the dog.

O’Malley released the dog anyway. Kelley Jr. Stabbed the dog once. O’Malley and another officer then shot him 12 times. Aren received an officer’s funeral that closed streets across Pittsburgh. Kelley Jr. received an autopsy.

Minster Victor Mohammed of Mosque 22 in Wilkinsburg said after the dog was stabbed, it became a “crime of passion,” and is therefore murder.

Black Lives Matter activist Dell Vann Vann agrees. “There’s no question that its murder,” he said. “I want to see some justice to come out of this. And as for the (authority) board, I’m disappointed that NAACP president Connie Parker

isn’t making some waves.

She sits on the board and isn’t raising any hell.”

As Executive Director Ellen McLean said prior to the February meeting, board members will not comment on the killing of Bruce Kelley Jr. until pending investigations are completed.

Fisher said she will push for legislation to eliminate the use of police dogs entirely, both for the public’s safety and for the dogs’ safety.

“The question in that case is whether (O’Malley) should have released the dog in the first place. It is our position that he should not have, and that he was at fault for everything that occurred thereafter,” she said. “Mr. Kelley had a knife, said he kill the dog.

The dog had no protective vest.”

The Port Authority Board’s regular meeting is scheduled for June 24. Vann said he plans to attend. It is unknown if the authority’s report will be made public at that time.

A6

JUNE 22-28, 2016

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

OPINION

The Superintendent mess

Guest Editorial

No room for hate There should be no room for hate in America.

And yet, at times, the ‘land of the free and home of the brave’ stands as firmly as a monument to hate’s very existence.

We were reminded of this again in the wee hours of Sunday morning, June 12, when a gunman named Omar Mateen took aim at clubgoers who had gathered at an Orlando nightspot to party the night away, and during a weekend that kicked off Pride Week, a national recognition of people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender.

The murderous rampage that claimed the lives of about 50 people and left 53 more injured was a sad and tragic atrocity that will remain in our minds for a long time.

Many people have debated the proper label for this act—domestic terrorism, radical Islamic terrorism, a hate crime. And they have argued about who and what is to blame—a crazed gunman, access to automatic weapons, lack of treatment for the mentally ill, an imperfect background-checking system, a culture that nurtures hateful, homophobic views.

Another label that should come to mind is “unacceptable.” Whatever the conditions that allow this type of carnage like to take place on our soil should be rooted out, universally condemned and suffocated with a blanket of disapproval. Of course we need better gun control. What valid reason would an ordinary person have to possess an automatic weapon that sprays rounds of bullets?

And we need to make clear that America is a place that allows people the freedoms to live their lives as they see fit, as long as they don’t interfere with the rights and freedom of others.

Laws can regulate some of this. But more than that we need a collective consciousness about the impact and dangers bred by any kind of hate—racial, religious, sex, sexual orientation.

We need to discuss hate’s dangerous impact not just in our legislative chambers and court rooms, but in our homes, where children feed on their parents’ impressions of other people, and in our social places and workplaces, where we must speak up not just when someone says they want to kill, but when they say that they hate.

With so much positive that can be fostered in America, hate is one factor we must actively rally around doing without.

(Reprinted from the Philadelphia Tribune)

Letters to the editor for publication The New Pittsburgh Courier welcomes all responsible viewpoints for publication. All letters should be typewritten and contain writer’s address and phone number for verification. All letters will be edited for clarity and length. Address all letters to: Letters to the Editor New Pittsburgh Courier 315 East Carson Street Pittsburgh, Pa. 15219 You may fax your letter to 412-481-1360, or via e-mail to letters@newpittsburghcourier.com.

Pittsburgh Courier NEW

Founded 1910

Rod Doss

Editor & Publisher Stephan A. Broadus Assistant to the Publisher

Allison Palm

Eric Gaines

Office Manager

Advertising Manager

Ulish Carter

Jeff Marion

Managing Editor

Circulation Consultant

John H. Sengstacke Editor & Publisher Emeritus (1912-1997)

Recently the Pittsburgh Public School Board selected Anthony Hamlet as its next Superintendent. He was to start July 1 but then all hell broke loose.

There are allegations that he falsified his resume, and that he never accomplished a lot of the things he said he did. So in response to these allegations the school board is conducting an investigation to find out the truth.

Well last week a group of Black leaders and A+ School held a press conference and sent out a statement asking the school board to dump Hamlet, and start all over again.

The Black leaders were: Tim Stevens, Esther Bush, Rick Adams and Sala Udin.

They are basically saying that our schools and community are in a crisis and can’t afford to wait on an investigation which may linger on for months, eating up time that should be used by the new superintendent to put in place programs which will help narrow the racial gap in GPA scores, reduce the Black dropout rate, while increasing the percentage of Blacks, especially Black males, attending community colleges, trade schools, or four year schools. Bottom line more Blacks being accepted into the middle and upper level of the job market.

Apparently Hamlet had been very successful at this, but now there’re questions.

I’ve also received calls from a few, both inside the PPS and outside, who feel Hamlet deserves a chance to defend himself, and prove he can do the job. They say that everyone is innocent until proven guilty and all they are doing is tearing down another Black man. They feel that nationwide it has been proven that traditional methods are not working for the majority of Black youth, especially the Black males, so something different has to be tried.

I agree with having to try something different, as long as we don’t lose the other students who are use to the traditional education. Every child learns differently and it has been proven time and time again males and females learn differently as do Blacks

Ulish Carter

Just Sayin’

cision for our children. Just remember, Bill Cowher, Chuck Noll, nor Mike Tomlin, had been a head-coach before the Steelers hired them. The Steelers were looking for fresh young minds. *** A funeral fit for a king was the general consensus by all who observed the farewell to Muhammad Ali. Not only did the people line the streets to get one last look, but also the buildings were packed at both services for Ali. One was a traditional Muslim service and the other more like a non-denomination service where all believers and non-believers in God could attend and speak. And some of the biggest entertainment, sports, and political figures in the world attended and spoke. It was like a who’s who event that will never be matched again.

Ali deserved it all. He lived his life entertaining others while giving all he could give in and out of the ring.

There were millions of people who hated him; there were also millions who loved him. Which side was the largest nobody knows. But one thing is for sure; the ones who hated him weren’t because of anything he had done to them. It was his stand on Vietnam, his stand on racism in this country and throughout the world, but most of all was the fact that he dared to be a handsome Black man who shouted out how great he was, how pretty he was, how intelligent he was, how he could whup any man at a time, the 1960s, when Blacks were being told how inferior we were, how ugly we were, how dumb and stupid we were, how inferior we were to the White man.

Yet here comes a brash young man whole turns all that negativity around into positives.

Yes Joe Louis was great, and Blacks all over the country loved him, but Louis was primarily in the ring. He didn’t have all the qualities, primarily the outgoing personality that Ali had.

Ali did it in the ring and out.

Farewell Ali. Thanks, for all the good times.

and Whites. But this is not all. That is why every student needs to be individually evaluated with this in mind to find out which system is best for him or her.

As for Hamlet? What is best for him may not be best for the school system.

He definitely deserves the right to clear his name not only for this job but also for future jobs. But do the students have time? The new school superintendent needs to be transitioning now, to be ready when school starts in September, not to mention Summer School.

I’m trying to understand why the Palm Beach Post decided to investigate Hamlet record after he left his Palm Beach position instead of while he was there. Something other than his resume had to have stood out in order for him to hold the position he held in Palm Beach and for him to be singled out by the Pittsburgh school board.

Until I get more information I can’t decide which side of this issue I’m on.

I understand the leaders position about the children. But I also understand a man’s life is on the line as well. Something has to be done soon.

But right now I stand with the Elected School Board. We elected these people to office to make these decisions I think we owe it to them to hear what they have to say after a quick investigation. None of the voices speaking out against Hamlet are elected officials.

Some say that the new person should have experience as a superintendent, but just because a person has great credentials doesn’t mean he will be able to do a great job. The bottom line is we must do what is best for our children. Maybe I’m naïve, but I be(Ulish Carter is the managing editor of the lieve the Board will make the best de- New Pittsburgh Courier.)

Pray for peace and work for justice (GEORGE CURRY MEDIA)—“Of all the rocks upon which we build our lives, we are reminded today that family is the most important. And we are called to recognize and honor how critical every father is to that foundation. They are teachers and coaches. They are mentors and role models. They are examples of success and the men who constantly push us toward it.”—President Barack Obama To become a parent, it is often said, is to allow your heart to go walking around outside your body.

In many ways, the essence of fatherhood is protection. As fathers, our most basic instinct is to protect our children. As children, our fathers are the ones we seek when we need protection. That responsibility weighs especially heavily for Black fathers in a time when divisive rhetoric seems out of control and the threat of violence looms heavily over our communities.

These fears are not unique to our generation, however. And because we cannot change the world to oblige

Marc H. Morial

To Be Equal our children, we must raise our children to navigate this world.

There are as many theories about raising strong, capable and well-adjusted children as there are parents.

“Tough love,” “helicoptering,” “free range”...but one thing matters above all else—that children know they are loved. As the theme of a popular adoption campaign goes: You don’t have to be perfect to be a perfect parent.

I was fortunate to have a father who is a hero and role model, not only for my brother and sisters and myself, but for the city he served as mayor, judge, and civil rights trailblazer. It is his example I strive to

follow a civil rights leader and— more importantly—as a father. But make no mistake, as fathers, do as much to shape the future by reading a bedtime story or helping with homework as we do testifying before Congress or presiding over a courtroom.

For the second year in a row, we celebrate Father’s Day in the wake of senseless tragedy as we mourn the 50 souls who were lost in the hateful mass shooting in Orlando. Last year, Father’s Day was marred by the racially-inspired murders at Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, S.C. It is our responsibility as fathers, as sons, and as brothers to rise up against the intolerance that fuels this violence, to quell the angry rhetoric that spurs it on, and to cut off the easy access to high-powered weaponry that enables it. As Pope Paul VI - Il Papa, the Holy Father, said, “If you want peace, work for justice.”

(Marc H. Morial, former mayor of New Orleans, is president and CEO of the National Urban League.)

Letter To The Editor

Reject superintendent choice.

Reject rush to ‘racism’ judgment Dear Editor: If you listen carefully to the defenders of Dr. Hamlet and Dr. Perkins, their defense is based upon ready references to previous instances of racism in Pittsburgh such as with Superintendent John Thompson. I even had one person reference the “racist imprisonment of Police Chief Nate Harper.” I am certainly not one to defend the racist history found in Pittsburgh and its surrounding region. I have fought against racist and sexist discrimination all my life and will continue that fight until my dying day.

But there is a danger in the premature rush to a judgment of racism to defend a less than perfect professional capability. The danger is that it distracts the focus away from our most important need - experience. And even if we concede the “racism” argument, we are left with a Superintendent background that is severely lacking in the kind of Excellent Experience our district needs in the Superintendent to replace Dr. Linda Lane.

Whether Dr. Hamlet manipulated the data or plagiarized his resume is secondary to the fact that he is simply not the best qualified and most experienced choice that could have been presented by Dr. Perkins. Dr. Hamlet has many redeeming characteristics, but he has never been a superintendent of any school district, or even a deputy superintendent. He certainly may have been the most qualified ap-

plicant among those that Dr. Perkins brought forward, but the School Board lowered the standards of requiring someone experienced in managing a large urban school district; experienced in managing a budget of a half billion dollars; experienced in managing a staff of thousands of personnel; experienced in negotiating contracts with the teachers union. (Is this why the PFT is such a fan of Dr. Hamlet?) And while we’re at it, can we please stop discussing moving Florida students from an F to a C as though a C level academic performance in Florida is an acceptable standard!

Let us not lose sight of what’s ultimately at stake in this superintendent selection. The defining struggle is closing the achievement gap between Black and White students in the Pittsburgh Public School system and the achievement gap between Pittsburgh schools and public schools in the surrounding region. The next superintendent must demonstrate that he/she can lead the region in this much needed transformation. Perhaps the reason why Dr. Perkins brought forth such an inexperienced candidate is because he himself is inexperienced in conducting a national search to find the kind of excellent experience so badly needed in the Pittsburgh Public School District.

We simply have to reject the inexperienced candidacy of Dr. Anthony

Hamlet and start over again. Yes, we must reject this candidacy and also the Perkins process. The board must identify a search company experienced in effective national executive searches for a school superintendent.

Local foundations can be approached and asked to assume the costs of starting over with a professional experienced search firm. And of course, the school board would be justified if they are leery of any attempt by the foundations, or any elected officials to put their thumb on the scale. And by the way, there are experienced minority and women owned search firms available, if that’s what the school board thinks it needs.

Dr. Regina Holley and the board deserve our appreciation and praise for working through a difficult process and insuring full public input. Remember that we have new board leadership and many new board members and they deserve our support as they work to put the needs of our children first. But the needs of our children in Pittsburgh’s failing school system demand excellence and experience and the selection process must produce an executive and leader whose experience and qualifications are beyond question.

Sala Udin Former Pittsburgh City Councilman Co-Chair, Hill District Education Council

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Dealing with disrespect Cracker plant a slip of the tongue?

Louis ‘Hop’ Kendrick from Democrats To Tell and Republicans (GEORGE CURRY MEDIA)—After last week’s column on how the major presidential candidates snubbed organizers of this year’s National Black Political Convention in Gary, Ind., I received quite a few emails asking: What can we do about it?

For anyone who may have missed the column, I noted that in an ultimate show of disrespect, each major presidential candidate declined to appear before the National Black Political Convention in Gary, despite it being co-sponsored by the National Policy Alliance, a federation that includes 10 major Black organizations: Blacks in Government (BIG), the Congressional Black Caucus, the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, the Judicial Council of the National Bar Association, the National Association of Black County Officials, the National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials, the National Black Council of School Board Members, the National Black Caucus of State Legislators, the National Organization of Black County Officials and the World Conference of Mayors.

BIG represents 3 million Black government employees and the CBC says its members represent approximately 43 million people.

I pointed out that most Republicans wouldn’t dare insult conservatives by failing to appear before the annual Conservative Political Action Conference and that neither Democrats nor Republicans would decline to show up for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). Yet, they don’t think twice before skipping a major gathering of African Americans.

And we continue to take it.

First, let’s stipulate that standing on the sidelines is not the answer, regardless of how disappointed we may be at the behavior of Democrats and Republicans. Not voting is a vote—a vote against anything approaching a progressive agenda. With the direction of the U.S. Supreme Court hanging in the

George E. Curry

Commentary balance, that alone should motivate us to turn out this fall in record numbers.

Second, it’s irresponsible to suggest that there is no difference between the behavior and voting records of Democrats and Republicans. I certainly can identify with the frustration of dealing with liberal condescension, but that shouldn’t blind us to the outright hostility of Republican leaders. Picking the lesser of two evils still leaves us with evil, but not nearly as much evil were Republican polices adopted.

Exhibit A is the GOP record in Congress. When the NAACP graded members of Congress on issues important to African Americans, every Republican in the House and Senate received an “F.” Not a Dminus. Not even a D-plus. Voting for them would be voting against our own self-interests.

It hasn’t always been this way. Blacks voted Republican from the Reconstruction Era immediately after the Civil War until 1936 when Franklin D. Roosevelt received 71 percent of the African American vote in the most lopsided electoral victory in history. After Harry S Truman desegregated the military and the federal workforce, he received 77 percent of the Black vote in 1948. Even as late as 1960, Richard Nixon got 32 percent of the Black vote against John F. Kennedy.

But the Republican Party grew increasingly antiBlack and no Republican president has received more than 15 percent of the Black vote since Lyndon B. Johnson signed the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the 1965 Voting Rights Act. In 2012, Mitt Romney received 6 per cent of the African American vote, according to Roper, and Donald J. Trump appears on track to receive less than that.

More than a half-century after passage of the 1965 Voting Rights Act, Blacks are still underrepresented in public office.

As a Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies report found, “Based on the most recent data, African Americans are 12.5 percent of the citizen voting age population, but they make up a smaller share of the U.S. House (10 percent), state legislatures (8.5 percent), city councils (5.7 percent), and the U.S. Senate (2 percent).”

And some of that failure rests squarely on our shoulders.

As the report noted, “ ...In 2014, when there was great unrest over a police officer’s killing of Michael Brown, African Americans made up 67 percent of residents of Ferguson, Missouri. In 2012, a solid 100 percent of Ferguson precincts went for President Obama, but during Ferguson’s municipal offcycle elections voters selected Ferguson’s Republican mayor and six city council members, all of whom except one were White.”

But the problem is larger than that. Essentially, we provide the margin of victory for Democrats year after year and often get little or nothing in return.

So back to the original question: What can we do about it?

Since my days as a reporter for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch in the 1970s, I have advocated a simple and yet powerful step: Pick one local office, say comptroller or city treasurer, and vote Republican and Democrat in alternate elections. Because Blacks vote overwhelmingly in favor of Democrats, I would vote first for the Republican candidate. It wouldn’t be long before both Democrats and Republicans fall over themselves courting Black voters. And if that fails to capture their attention, then move to a second city office or a statewide contest.

If this happens at the local level, national party leaders would take note and do everything without their power to avoid a shift of loyalty at the national level. Until we show that we will make politicians pay on Election Day, we will continue to get disrespected by both major parties.

(George E. Curry is President and CEO of George Curry Media, LLC. He is the former editor-in-chief of Emerge magazine and the NNPA. He can be reached through his Web site, georgecurry.com.)

JUNE 22-28, 2016

FORUM

The local news has been saturated with the fact in B e a v e r County a giant international organization was building a multi-billion dollar cracker plant.

The construction time table will be about four or five years and it will require five to six thousand union workers, and upon completion about six hundred permanent jobs. The average person including myself had no concept of what a cracker plant is. I definitely know now.

Our major concern must be that this cracker plant be a plant of inclusion where we will be afforded the opportunities that traditionally we have been denied. The word “cracker” has often been considered a negative referral to White persons, but too often over the years it has meant non-inclusion of Blacks.

If we analyze cracker building in the actual sense over the years it will be apparent that Blacks have been left out almost completely. Is our memory that bad, or have we given up fighting for what we deserve? Over the years there have been major projects built with taxpayer’s funds and almost no Black participation. Do we remember that the two stadiums on North Side would qualify as cracker projects 98 percent White 2 percent Black?

What about the Casino, buildings in East Liberty, Hill District, Strip,

The Truth

Lawrenceville, Garfield, Allegheny County Jail, Allegheny County International Airport, Larimer Avenue? I ride through these neighborhoods regularly and very rarely do I see persons looking like myself working in any capacity.

We have forgotten the importance of local politics and while we argue about Trump and Hillary the potential for the improvement of local Blacks continues to diminish. The number of Blacks on the Allegheny County Courts, Allegheny County Police, and Pittsburgh Police are at an all-time low. I received a phone call last month from an Allegheny County employee and he asked me to look into the fact that they only have three Black janitors and once they were 90 percent Black. You should call your representatives on Allegheny County Council and Pittsburgh City Council and ask them how many Blacks [if any] have been awarded a professional service contract in the last four years. A professional service contract does not have to be bid; you can just award it to those who fund your campaign, which includes your brother, in-laws, and friends. Professional service contracts are an extension of cracker mentality and Black denial.

(Louis “Hop” Kendrick is a contributor to the New Pittsburgh Courier.)

Bigotry beneath Black history Recently, in of the deadliest Orlando, Fla. a J. Pharoah Doss mass terrorist 29 year-old shooting in U.S. gunman enHistory let’s tered a gay not forget.” nightclub and 1). East St. murdered 49 Louis Maspeople and insacre 1917 jured 53 others. ( 2 0 0 - 7 0 0 Then the gundeaths) man, an Ameri2). Arkansas can of Afghan descent who report- Massacre 1919 (854 deaths) edly pledged allegiance to “The Is3). Tulsa Massacre 1921 (300-3000 lamic state” was killed in a shootout deaths) with the police.

4). Rosewood Massacre 1923 (150 Afterwards headlines declared Or- deaths) lando the “deadliest mass shooting But none of these are deadly mass in U.S. history”, and the assertion terrorist shootings. Each incident was immediately challenged on so- has a unique home grown cause that cial media with old newspaper clip- produced mob violence ending in pings featuring carnage in East St. distinct tragedies.

Louis in 1917.

They’re not comparable to each One image sharer wrote, “As tragic other, let alone to a single gunman as the Orlando massacre was it’s not in a nightclub. the worst in U.S. history. Here AfriNow the source these images gencan-Americans were massacred, but erated from admitted if “mass shootthe media does not want us to know.” ings” are limited to a lone gunman Another said, “When it comes to his- in a school, theater, or nightclub tory tell the whole story.” then Orlando makes history. But Let’s take that advice. the source proclaimed the definition In 1917 The Great Migration was has a narrow focus preventing comin progress. That spring two thou- parisons with other horrific events sand Blacks arrived in St. Louis per in U.S. history linked to fear, disweek to meet increased labor de- crimination, and intolerance. And as mands. shocking and ghastly as the Florida This influx created economic com- tragedy was, it actually pales in petition and tension between the comparison.

But in 2007 when The New York races. On May 28 three thousand White men marched into East St. Times announced the 32 victims at Louis and attacked Blacks and de- Virginia Tech was the “deadliest shooting rampage in American hisstroyed property.

The National Guard temporarily tory” no comparisons were made.

Why not, if the purpose of comparison stopped the rioting.

On July 2 White males drove is to keep a proper historical context?

No comparison was made because through a Black area and opened the victims at Virginia Tech were fired on a crowd.

An hour later, another car with students, and students are not a White passengers arrived. Black rival “minority” group. These Black residents thought the previous tragedies were used to maintain mishooters returned so they shot sev- nority group supremacy in historical eral times at the vehicle, killing a suffering and to keep the gay rival police officer who was escorting a group off the top of the massacre journalist through town. After the charts.

This type of comparison is the news spread that the Blacks killed a policeman White mobs converged on byproduct of believing that Black East St. Louis and another riot lives matter instead of all life. It’s absent of human decency. It turns erupted.

Knowing the whole story, it would all the victims into contestants for be shocking if the death toll was suffering contest and the bigotry beequal to Orlando because a lot more hind this competition is beneath Black history. would be expected in a race war.

(J. Pharoah Doss is a contributor to the Now another image sharer went further and made a list. He wrote, New Pittsburgh Courier. He blogs at “Before we begin spreading the lies jpharoahdoss@blogspot.com)

Commentary

A7

James Clingman

Blackonomics

Can Blacks prompt an ‘Orlando’ reaction?

(GEORGE CURRY MEDIA)—In 1991, Latasha Harlins was shot in the back of her head and killed by Soon Ja Du, a Korean store owner in Los Angeles, who received a $500 fine, sentenced to 400 hours of community service, and five years’ probation by Judge Joyce Karlin, who ignored the penalty of 16 years in prison for voluntary manslaughter. Du received no prison time for her callous act of murder—execution style—of a 15-year-old Black girl, over a $1.79 container of orange juice. This case and the outrage it brought foreshadowed the L.A. civil unrest now known as the Rodney King Riot in 1992.

Mindful of the Harlins’ case, I think about the fact that here in 2016, Black lives really don’t matter to some police officers, prosecutors, judges, and other Black folks. Preserving Latasha’s life was not worth $1.79, and to add insult to injury the person who killed her only had to pay a $500.00 fine.

Since that time thousands of Black men, women, and children have been killed— 1,134 by police officers in 2015, according to The Guardian. In Chicago alone, there have been 1,454 shootings and 279 killed as of June 2016—207 of whom were Black. So just who are we trying to convince that Black lives matter, other than politicians? And if Black lives matter, how much do they matter, how much are they worth?

We have recently seen millions of dollars being paid to victims’ families, but it pales in comparison to the number of lives lost. Just the Black men and women killed by police, if divided into those millions of public dollars — tax dollars — the individual amounts would be embarrassing and insulting, just as in Latasha Harlins’ case. But who cares?

Right?

If members of any other group in this country were being killed at the same rate as Black folks are being killed, there would be a collective outrage and indignation such that the problem would be addressed, if not solved, almost immediately.

Moreover, on the economic side of things, just look at the Orlando shootings. Days after that tragedy $4 million was raised for the victims—twice the previous GoFundMe crowd funding record of $2 million—and all we hear in the news reports is advocacy for the “LGBT community.”

When have we heard so much sympathy and advocacy for Black folks on those news shows? When have we raised significant amounts of money for Black victims? When have we seen LGBT news reporters take commercial breaks in order to shed tears for Black victims? If Tamir Rice didn’t make that happen, nothing will.

Money is pouring into Orlando from private corporations, in part because LBGT’s are willing to leverage their dollars in return for corporate support. (Don’t be mad at them; that’s what we should be doing) The Orlando Magic, Disney, the Florida baseball teams, and Mark Cuban, owner of the Dallas Mavericks, have given money and other support in the aftermath of the latest shootings. Even GoFundMe waived its $100,000 transaction fee on the contributions made by more than 90,000 contributions.

Over the past three years, we have also seen corporations use their power to affect political change on behalf of LGBT’s. Yet corporations, despite earning much of their profit from Black consumers, did virtually nothing for Eric Garner’s family, Sandra Bland’s family, John Crawford’s family, or Ezell Ford’s family. Why not?

Politically speaking, while 20 bullet-riddled bodies of children in Sandy Hook couldn’t move them, politicians will surely act now on gun law legislation because many of those killed in Orlando were LGBT, the NRA notwithstanding. What if that had been a Black club?

So, do our lives matter? And who are we trying to convince that they do matter? First, our lives must matter to us. We must be just as willing to bring our causes to the forefront as gay people and other groups are. We should see red, black, and green colors everywhere when we are killed or aggrieved. No one else is going to do that for us, so we must do it for ourselves. Are we afraid? Ashamed?

Apathetic?

Where does this leave Black people? Latasha Harlins, Tamir Rice, and all of those killed in between and since, are calling out from their graves for us to respond appropriately to what happened to them. Our charge is to make our lives matter to us, first and foremost, and then show a united front to this nation that we will not be relegated to a subordinate class and continue to be ignored, dismissed, and trampled upon by groups that continually parlay our misery into their benefit. Until other groups begin to support us the way we have supported them in this country throughout history, we must commit ourselves to a “Never Again” approach and take charge of our own destiny, our own causes, and our own security.

The only Black things that matter are dollars and votes, so why not leverage them to get what we want?

(Jim Clingman, founder of the Greater Cincinnati African American Chamber of Commerce, is the nation’s most prolific writer on economic empowerment for Black people. He can be reached through his website, blackonomics.com.)

A8

NATIONAL

JUNE 22-28, 2016 NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Garland speaks at school where he tutors kids

by Sam Hananel Associated Press Writer

WASHINGTON (AP)— Supreme Court nominee Merrick Garland hasn’t made much progress winning over Senate Republicans, but he found a more receptive audience June 15 in a room full of graduating fifth graders.

Garland delivered brief commencement remarks for a Washington elementary school where he has tutored students for the last 18 years.

He urged the children from J.O. Wilson Elementary School to “go ahead

and dream, but also work to make those dreams come true.”

About 50 children—along with parents, teachers and a large media contingent— attended the ceremony roughly a mile from the Supreme Court building where Garland hopes to sit one day.

The appeals court judge has been in political limbo since President Barack Obama nominated him three months ago to replace the late Justice Antonin Scalia. Republicans in Congress have refused to hold hearings or a confirmation vote until a new

MAYA ANGELOU (AP Photo/Nell Redmond/File)

New Jersey school to be named for poet Maya Angelou JERSEY CITY, N.J. (AP)—A new school in New Jersey will be named for the late poet Maya Angelou.

The Jersey City school board voted last Thursday to name the $54.6 million school building for the celebrated writer and civil rights activist.

Angelou died in 2014 at age 86.

The Jersey Journal reports

Angelou was chosen over President Barack Obama and Fletcher Walker. Walker led a parent-teacher group that lobbied for the new building.

The school plans to host an annual spoken word assembly to honor Angelou. The new pre-kindergarten through fifth grade school is set to open in September.

JUSTICE CLARENCE THOMAS (AP Photo/File)

Bye, Clarence? Not so fast, Supreme Court justice’s wife debunks rumors Talk of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas‘ imminent retirement is, well, bogus, according to The Hill.

Thomas’ wife, Ginni, denounced the news reports Sunday in a Facebook post: “For all those who are contacting me about the possibility of my husband retiring, I say—unsubscribe from those false news sources and carry on with your busy lives.

IT. IS. BOGUS! Paul Bedard needs to find a phone in his life and unnamed sources are worth as much as their transparency is.

A funny close friend wrote me: “Next we’ll hear that you and he have bought a small private island near Nevis, with a large satellite dish so that all the Nebraska college sports games won’t be missed, and a large Green Egg that can slow cook the indigenous wild boar.

Let us know when you are shipping off so we can all

chip in to buy a suitable retirement present for your husband—perhaps matching lounge chairs and umbrellas.”

From The Hill: The Examiner reported Sunday that Thomas is “mulling retirement after the presidential election.”

The report, which cited anonymous sources, said the George H. W. Bush appointee “has been considering retirement for awhile and never planned to stay until he died. “It is bogus,” Gin[n]i Thomas wrote in all capital letters on her post before calling out the reporter by name.

“Paul Bedard needs to find a phone in his life and unnamed sources are worth as much as their transparency is.”

Thomas, who will turn 68 on June 23, is the lone Black Supreme Court Justice and one of the court’s most conservative members.

SOURCE: The Hill, Facebook

president takes office.

It was the second time Garland has delivered graduation remarks since his nomination. Last month, he spoke at the Chicago-area high school where he graduated 46 years ago. The events give Garland a way to keep up public appearances without commenting on the political firestorm surrounding his stalled nomination.

Garland was introduced

by Vernell Garvin and Jenifer Morales-Garcia, two students he has tutored for years. Garland comes to the school every other week to help them with homework. Several of his law clerks also tutor children at the school, attended by mostly African-American and low-income students.

Speaking for less than 10 minutes, Garland sprinkled in references to Beyonce and basketball star Stephen Curry, telling the students that success comes from “practice, discipline and determination.”

He also referenced “Harry Potter” character Professor Dumbledore on making

MATH SCHOLARS—Merrick Garland congratulates Jenifer Morales-Garcia, left, after Morales-Garcia and Vernell Garvin, right, who were awarded medals for math during the graduation ceremony for J.O. Wilson Elementary School, June 15, at the Atlas Performing Arts Center in Washington. (AP Photo/ Jacquelyn Martin) important choices in life.

“Don’t follow the crowd in the wrong direction. You be the brave one,” he said.

Obama praised Garland’s efforts at the school in March when he announced his pick for the Supreme

Court. Garland’s tutoring work was also featured in a White House video about the nominee’s life.

New Pittsburgh Courier

documentary B5

Empowerment

LIFESTYLES JUNE 22-28, 2016

www.newpittsburghcourier.com

ordains, installs new pastor B2

White Lily

B

Debbie Norrell

Lifestyles Report Gator vs.

Gorilla The stories sound so similar; parent out with a young child, both little boys and the child faces tragedy. The first story happened at the Cincinnati Zoo. By now you know the story. Little boy gets away from the mother and ends up in the space with a Silverback gorilla. I was amazed how many friends of mine only saw a part of the video of the child and gorilla. They only saw the part where the gorilla seemed to petting the child. They wanted to argue with me and told me that at no time was the child in danger and defended the gorilla. Thank goodness for an iPhone. As they say on TV talk shows “let’s run the tape.” When these friends saw the gorilla drag the boy by his foot like a ragdoll through the water barely missing the iron grate that could have knocked him out or killed him they were shocked and convinced that the gorilla had to be taken down.

Fast forward to Orlando Florida and parents are having a good time with their children outside of their hotel and an alligator snatches their little boy. It’s funny how similar the stories are, both little boys, parents had multiple children with them when the incidents occurred, both out for a time of leisure in a public place.

You may remember the Ohio mother was criticized, there were petitions supporting the gorilla, social media was full of pictures of gorillas with captions “I’m taking better care of the little boy than the mother.” It was insane.

And then the background of the father was investigated and we found that the parents were Black.

None of this happened with the Florida parents.

No one seems to have questioned why the parents were not holding the little boy’s hand. There have been no petitions to crucify the parents. It was quickly revealed that the family was from Nebraska and that the father was a pillar of the community and yes the family was White. No one asked why they were in water when the sign said no swimming. There was a call to “get that gator” and numerous gators were slain.

Both of these stories are tragic and of course one more than the other because losing a child is horrific. I hope the portion of the public who has come out and blamed the parents for what happened in both incidents thinks twice the next time. You don’t know a situation unless you are there. When I was in Florida the thought of encountering an alligator did not cross my mind. I felt safe and we had fun. However I am happy to hear that signs have been placed warning people about alligators and snakes. Now let’s hope people will read and heed the signs.

One of my biggest pet peeves is people who do not follow the rules, those people that feed the birds when it says not to, the ones who go into the fountain when it clearly says stay out of the fountain.

Pray for our world, pray for peace.

(Email the columnist at debbienorrell@aol.com)

RALPH P. WATSON SURROUNDED BY SURVIVORS

Classic Events presents Fourth Annual Ladies Who Network

by Debbie Norrell Lifestyles Editor

On May 14, at Hosanna House in Wilkinsburg, Classic Events celebrated survivors with the Fourth Annual Ladies Who Network.

The afternoon soiree featured a tea hosted by Michele Goodman Jones of Michele Goodman Studio (MGS) and yours truly served as the pink carpet correspondent greeting survivors of cancer, heart disease and domestic violence as they shared their stories with the audience.

The centerpiece of the afternoon was an etiquette presentation presented by Goodman-Jones. Ralph P. Watson founder of Classic Events has named Goodman-Jones the “Empress of DEBBIE NORRELL WITH Etiquette,” and on this day SURVIVOR KATHY JONES she lived up to her title by sharing little known facts about how one should conduct their selves in a social setting.

She spoke about putting ANOTHER CLASSIC EVENT—Tom Baker (Allegheny County Councilman) and your elbows Ralph P. Watson on the table, covering your mouth when you yawn and what to do when someone hands you a business card and so much more. At the Michele Goodman Studio now located in New Castle, Pa. MGS specializes in I.M.A.G.E. Workshops (interviewing, makeup, appearance, grooming and etiquette).

Watson says the next Classic Event is for the men. Mark your calendars for the Men’s Health Initiative on Saturday, Aug. 20 at St. James Episcopal Church, 11524 Frankstown Rd. in Penn Hills.

There will be free health screenings, healthcare information, vendors and a grillmaster competition. Contact LORRAINE TURNER WITH PINK CARPET CORRESPONDENT yourclassicevent@gmail.com

SURVIVORS—Debbie Norrell and Brenda Tate (photos by J.L. Martello)

SHARING SURVIVOR STORIES—Debbie Norrell with Olga George

LADIES WHO NETWORK—Tracy Holt-Foxx, Terri Bell and Michele Goodman-Jones

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RELIGION

JUNE 22-28, 2016

Praise & Worship

Church Circuit 100th Anniversary

HILLCREST SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH 2340 Wylie Ave., Pgh., PA 15219 412-391-4334 412-566-8787

“Be Encouraged”

Elder Christopher C. Thompson Power Hour Sabbath...............8:15 A.M. Sabbath School........................9:00 A.M. Divine Worship......................11:00 A.M. AYS One Hour Before Sunset Prayer Meeting Wednesday......7:30 P.M.

ST. BENEDICT THE MOOR CATHOLIC CHURCH Crawford & Centre Ave. Pgh., PA 15219 412-281-3141 Mass Sunday 9:00 A.M. & Noon Sunday (Gospel Choir Mass) Noon www.stbtmchurch.org

METROPOLITAN BAPTIST CHURCH 22 Sampsonia Street, Northside Pittsburgh, PA 15212 412-231-2554 FAX 412-231-6395 Rev. Lacy F. Richardson, Ph.D., Pastor Church School.................................9:30 A.M. Worship Service.................8:00 & 10:45 A.M. Bible Study/ Prayer Wednesday...................6:30/7:30 P.M.

INSTALLATION—Members of the clergy lay hands on newly installed Pastor Antawn D. Coleman Sr. and First Lady Jada Coleman.

White Lily ordains, installs new pastor

www.metropolitanbaptistchurch.com metropolitanbaptist2224@gmail.com

SIXTH MOUNT ZION BAPTIST CHURCH

Kennywood Park

JUNE 19—The Education Department of Pentecostal Temple Church will be selling tickets at a discounted price of $23.00 for Kennywood Park that can be used for the following dates— June 19, July 6, July 8, July 18,and Aug. 9, which will be PT day at the park. Come out join us in the pavilion with your basket for great fellowship and fun. For information /tickets call the church office at 412-361-7000.

JUNE 22—Following are the services to be held in celebrating the Zion Baptist Church’s 10th Anniversary. Theme “We’ve Come This Far By Faith” at 7 p.m.

9:00 a.m.

10:15 a.m.

6:00 p.m.

Men’s Day

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

JUNE 22/26—Zion Baptist Church McKeesport,1300 Locust St., will celebrate its 100th church anniversary. On Wednesday, June 22 Prayer and Praise will begin at 6:30 p.m. Thursday June 23 is youth night at 6:30 p.m.. Friday June 24 Craig Giles will be the guest preacher at 7 p.m. The culminating events will be on Sunday, June 26. The service at 10:30 a.m. will feature the preacher Rev. Richard W. Truss, the pastor of the host church.

The 100th anniversary banquet will be held at the Georgetown Centre 526 East Bruceton Rd., Pleasant Hills at 3:30 p.m. The guest preacher will be Rev. William C. Callaway, Mt. Olive Baptist Church, Clairton. For more information please call 412-6649832 or by email zionbaptistmckeesport@gmail.com. Reverend Richard W. Truss is the senior pastor.

Praise, Worship & Candlelight Service

6556 Shetland Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206 (412) 441-7839 Church School Worship Service Wednesday Night Bible Study

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

REV. JOHN COOK JR. of Victory Baptist Church delivered the mes- REV. BERNARD TENCH officiating pastor of Second Baptist Church, Beaver Falls. sage.

116 S. Highland Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15206

JUNE 23—Second Baptist Church,108 W. 12th Ave., Homestead. At 7 p.m. 10th Annual Men’s Day. Rev. William Hill, Pastor, New Pilgrim. Friday, Rev. George Williams, Pastor, First Baptist.

Worship Service

JUNE 24—Worship Service featuring Rev. Craig Giles, son of Zion Baptist Church, and Pastor of Triumph Baptist Church, Sewickley, Pa.; accompanied by his congregation and choir, 7 p.m.

www.cathedralofhope.com

Summer Worship........10 a.m.

Third annual Prayer Walk

Join our growing Praise and Worship Church Community

FAMILY—Rev. Antawn Coleman with wife Jada and their two children.

JUNE 25—Macedonia Baptist Church in the Hill District will be hosting its 3rd annual Prayer Walk from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at various locations throughout the historic Hill District, including Sugar Top, Oak Hill and Skyview as well as the Bedford, Centre, Wylie and Webster Avenue corridors. This event is designed for the ministry to provide hope to the community by showing the love and compassion of God. Approximately six miles will be walked during the event by hundreds of Macedonia members. To contribute donations of any kind please contact Pastor Kevin Jones via email at kjones@macedoniapgh. org. or call 412-281-8437 ext. 16 at any time.

Prayer Breakfast

JUNE 25—Bethlehem Baptist Church Women’s Ministrdy Prayer Breakfast at the Comfort Inn Hotel & Conference Center, 699 Rodi Road, Penn Hills, at 9 a.m. Pastor.

For rate information, call 412-4818302, ext. 128. We are looking to feature

Annual Deacon Day

ENJOYING THE DAY—Pastor Elect Antawn D. Coleman Sr., enjoy- PASTOR THEADORE PUGH addresses the congregation of White Lily Baptist Church. ing the sound of the church choir.

JUNE 26—New Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 1434 Juniata St., is greets you in the joy of the Lord and send our special invitation for all to join the New Zion family as we celebrate our Annual Deacons Day at 3 p.m. Rev. Walter C. Butler, pastor of Commission Church of Pittsburgh will be the guest preacher for this special occasion. The theme is “For a Season of Change, Try Prayer”­— James 5:16. Rev. Dr. Samuel W. Williams, pastor. For more information call 412-322-3838.

Morning Worship Anniversary

JUNE 26—10:30 a.m. Rev. Richard W. Truss, pastor, preaching. Anniversary banquet, Georgetown Centre, Pleasant Hills, Pa, Rev. W. C. Callaway, pastor of Mt. Olive First Baptist Church, Clairton, banquet preacher, 3 p.m. Tickets available: $40 donation.

our positive youth in the church communities. You can e-mail, fax or mail their bios and photo to:

Summer Day Camp

JUNE 27—East End Cooperative Ministry’s 5-week Summer Day Camp is a safe welcoming place for kids to have a memorable summer vacation, enrich their education, develop their talents, and build friendships to last a lifetime. Rev. Darnell Leonard, director Children Youth Center.

New Pittsburgh Courier 315 E. Carson St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Fax: 412-481-1360 email: egaines@newpittsburghcourier.com

NEW SHEPARD—White Lily Baptist Church, 3621 Chartiers Avenue, in the West End recently held ordination and installation ceremonies for their new pastor, Rev. Antawn D. Coleman Sr. presiding pastor was Bernard Tench, Second Baptist Church, Beaver Falls and the message was given by Rev. John Cook Jr., of Victory Baptist Church, Manchester. Above White Lily Baptist church with its unique pulpit.

(Photos by Gail Manker)

(To have items listed on the Church Circuit, email information at least two weeks in advance to newsroom@newpitts burghcourier.com.)

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

PEOPLE

JUNE 22-28, 2016

B3

Black urban gardeners open farmers market With the opening of the Homewood Community Farmers Market on June 4, grocery shoppers are once again able to have access to a variety of organic and home grown fruits, vegetables and products right in their neighborhood.

According to a press release, residents are able to use federal food assistance benefits and/or credit/debit cards to easily buy fresh local food. Adults and families who are enrolled in the

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, are encouraged to utilize and support the farmers’ market by purchasing fruits, vegetables, plant starters, meat, dairy, bread, and other eligible foods.

The Black Urban Gardeners and Farmers of Pittsburgh co-op was created out of the need to unite Black Urban Agriculturalist in Pittsburgh for support, and to dismantle the systemic racism that infiltrates the

communities. This is a newly formed grassroots organization that has brought together a collective group of Black gardeners and farmers to work together to solve challenges that Blacks face in Pittsburgh as Urban Growers and Farmers. The group is composed of 25 members thus far and they strongly promote, and encourage new membership.

This Farmers Market will provide a healthy resource for the residents of Home-

FINE WINE—Dana Harris Yetes talks wine from a local winery with Raqueeb Bey. (Photos by Gail Manker)

wood and surrounding communities.

Hunger is a persistent issue in Homewood-Brushton and the entire state. African Americans participating in the SNAP program account for over 44.2 percent. Those families With Children under 18 years 45.3 percent and below poverty level 57.5 percent.

All of these factors contribute to the disbursements of SNAP benefits each month.

Despite this nutrition as-

sistance, many people still cannot afford healthy fresh food—SNAP benefits generally cover less than half the cost of an average meal.

The Homewood Community Farmers Market intends to help low-income shoppers stretch their benefits and put more fresh fruits and vegetables on their families’ tables. It also attracts new customers to the market who otherwise might not consider shopping there.

In addition, to provid-

ing a source of affordable, healthy, local food to low-income community members, farmers markets bolster local economies, improve community health, and bring diverse groups of people together through a shared social space.

The Homewood Community Farmers Market is open 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in the Parking lot of the House of Manna Worship Center, 7420 Frankston Ave. Pittsburgh, Pa. 15208.

GRAND OPENING—Moses Bey, left, talks to William Peterson of Republic Food Enterprise during the grand opening of the Homewood Community Farmers Market.

MORE THAN FOOD—Energy assistant employee Lorraine Cross with a bracelet at Cabochons and SPICE KING—Mable Bey of Homewood talks to the Spice King Lewis Smith at the Grand Opening of More jewelry booth at the Grand opening of the Homewood Community Farmers Market. Cabochons the Homewood Community Farmers Market held at House of Manna Worship Center in Homewood. was one of the few venders not selling food.

ENTERTAINER New Pittsburgh Courier

B4

JUNE 22-28, 2016

www.newpittsburghcourier.com

Cover To Cover

‘Running with the Champ’

by Terri Schlichenmeyer For New Pittsburgh Courier

Two heads are better than one.

Another body can make work lighter, both in mood and in task. A partner can support you, encourage you, inspire you, and sympathize with you. You solve easier with another mind on the problem. Yes, two heads are better than one, and in the new book “Running with the Champ” by Tim Shanahan (with Chuck Crisafulli), so are four feet.

People who knew Muhammad Ali probably wouldn’t be surprised that he met Tim Shanahan in 1970 because of a charity event.

Shanahan was working with a Chicago organization, and needed big-name sports heroes to “deliver a motivational speech to the students.”

His connections led to Ali, who invited Shanahan into

his home and his life. They were friends almost instantly; days later, they became regular running partners.

It was a rather informal situation, says Shanahan: they ran when they could, near a park in Chicago. This was after Ali’s three-year boxing suspension, and both knew that the Champ needed encouragement; Shanahan, the better runner, gave it to him. The unlikely friendship began to take deepen: the black Muslim athlete who came from the wrong side of the Louisville tracks and the Catholic white guy born in Wisconsin would lay in the grass after their run, discussing their childhoods, favorite things, dreams, and life in general.

Being Ali’s friend was a wild ride through the years.

The Champ was often abrupt with his demands, both to Shanahan and to others; he didn’t suffer fools gladly, and expected his wishes to be quickly granted.

He was generous, monetarily and time-wise, with nearly everyone he saw, giving away a good portion of his income (and, supposedly, some of Shanahan’s, too). Ali loved meeting celebrities, hated unsolicited advice, could be stubborn (especially in his career), and had a surprising jealous streak, but he was funny and larger-than-life.

Then, around the time Ali retired, things changed: he started uncharacteristically losing his patience with many in his inner circle—including Shanahan.

In 1984, a diagnosis of “parkinsonism” explained everything…

In many such memoirs based on celebrity, you’ll often find a distracting amount of name-dropping and braggadocio. You might even expect that in a memoir about Muhammad Ali, but the surprise is that author Shanahan (with Crisafulli) doesn’t focus on that alone. Instead, “Running with the Champ” is a loving tribute to a friendship. (“Running with the Champ” by Tim Shanahan (with Chuck Crisafulli) c. 2016, Simon & Schuster, $27/$36 Canada, 307 pages.)

Pittsburgh Jazzlive Festival fundraiser

by Genea L. Webb For New Pittsburgh Courier

In an effort to keep the Pittsburgh Jazzlive International Festival free and open to the public, the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust held a fundraiser for the event.

“The fundraiser allowed the Jazz festival to be opened up to a broader audience,” said Janis Burley Wilson, VP of Strategic Partnerships and Community Engagement at the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust.

“We wanted everyone in the community to be able to enjoy it. We didn’t want people to say they couldn’t come. There are people who love music but may not be able to afford a ticket.”

The fundraiser, which was held at the August Wilson Center for African American Culture and featured Jazz, Salsa and other music styles, introduced the attendees to the Pittsburgh Jazzlive International Festival and what it means to the city of Pittsburgh.

The 6th annual Pittsburgh Jazzlive International Festival, which is being presented by Citizen’s Bank, will be held June 24-26 this year because the U.S. Open is being held June 17-19, the festival’s traditional weekend. This year’s event features diverse and vibrant worldclass talent including The Revive Big Band, Buika, the Chick Corea Trio featuring Brian Blade and Christian McBride, Jeff “Tain” Watts and the Blue 3, Nu Grid featuring Jean-Paul Bourelly and Vernon Reid, Brianna Thomas, Eddie Palmieri’s Big Salsa Orchestra and many others. The festival employs 140 local musicians and more than 20,000 people from across the country attend the festival.

“We have fantastic entertainment lined up this year,” said Burley Wilson. “The festival is a way to bring people together there’s something for everyone. We have things for kids, families and everyone we have about 60 artists performing throughout the weekend.”

The festival opens with Lyndsey Smith & Soul Distribution. The group has been performing in Pittsburgh for the past five years in various years. She was featured in Unheard Voices Magazines and in the premiere issue of the Elite Pittsburgh Magazine.

She has been remarked as Pittsburgh’s Hidden Sensation by Steel City Entertainment Magazine.

Following Smith & Soul Distribution, the music of the late great Prince Rogers Nelson will be celebrated on 9th Street when DJ Selecta spins the Purple One’s music and other Minneapolis sounds from 9 -11 p.m. on June 24.

Children can engage in quality Jazz music while learning what makes Jazz so unique through an interactive performance led by local talented Jazz musicians. Support for the initiative is provided by PNC Grow Up Great. The event

FAMILY AFFAIR—From left: Tom Burley, father; daughter Janet Burley Wilson and mom Margaret Burley, made it a family affair. (Photos by J. L. Martello) will be held at the Trust Arts Education Center.

Local artist Tony DePaolis will perform on June 25 from 2 p.m.-2:45 p.m. DePaolis has become one of the most in-demand bassists in the Steel City. His fluid playing has given him a working knowledge of many different styles of music.

Nu Grid is a new project that explores the boundaries of beat and improvised music. Jean-Paul Bourelly and Graham Hayes are the project creators while Vernon Reed and DJ Logic complete the lineup. The group uses Afro-phonics, free form funk and the jazz impulse to create amazing music. The group will be

performing from 2:45 to 4 p.m. on June 25.

The Chick Corea Trio will take the stage from 7:458:15 p.m. the 25th. Corea is the fourth most nominated artist in Grammy history with 63 nominations and 22 wins. The keyboardist, bandleader, composer and NEA Jazz Master.

From straight-ahead to avant-garde, bebop to jazzrock fusion, children’s songs to chamber and symphonic works, Chick has touched an astonishing number of musical bases in his career since playing with the genre-shattering bands of Miles Davis in the late ’60s and early ’70s.

Yet Chick has never been

more productive than in the 21st century, whether playing acoustic piano or electric keyboards, leading multiple bands, performing solo or collaborating with a who’s who of music. Underscoring this, he has been named Artist of the Year three times this decade in the DownBeat Readers Poll. Born in 1941 in Massachusetts, Chick remains a tireless creative spirit, continually reinventing himself through his art.

Four-time GRAMMY®-winning jazz bassist Christian McBride can be likened to a force of nature, fusing the fire and fury of a virtuoso with the depth and grounding of a seasoned journeyman. Powered by

GET ON THE DANCE FLOOR—People filling up the dance floor to party and have a good time.

a relentless energy and a boundless love of swing, McBride’s path has described a continuous positive arc since his arrival on the scene. With a career now blazing into its third decade, the Philadelphia native has become one of the most requested, most recorded, and most respected figures in the music world today third decade, the Philadelphia native has become one of the most requested, most recorded, and most respected figures in the music world today. Currently he hosts and produces “The Lowdown: Conversations with Christian” on Sirius XM satellite radio and National Public Radio’s “Jazz Night in America,” a weekly radio show and multimedia collaboration between WBGO, NPR and Jazz at Lincoln Center, showcasing outstanding live jazz from across the country. A native of Shreveport, Louisiana, Brian Blade established himself as a versatile, accomplished drummer early in his career, appearing on albums by the likes of Joshua Redman, Kenny Garrett, and Bob Dylan. Blade released his first album, Brian Blade Fellowship, at the age of 27 in 1998 and followed two years later with Perceptual, both on Blue Note.

Always an in-demand sideman and collaborator, Blade continued to find work with a varied bevy of artists, including Joni Mitchell, Bill Frisell, and Wayne Shorter.

Ten years after releasing his first album as the Brian Blade Fellowship, Blade returned with Season of Changes in 2008, this time on Verve. A year later he released the solo Americana, singer/songwriter effort Mama Rosa for the label.

At the beginning of 2014, the BBF band re-signed with Blue Note in a cooperative deal with the Shreveport, La-based Mid-City Records. Their fourth album together, Landmarks, was issued in April of 2014. The quintet was augmented by guitarists Marvin Sewell and Jeff Parker.

The final day of the festival will begin with Peoria, Illinois’ own Brianna Thomas.

Her father, Charlie Thomas, not only influenced her with his own unique talents as a SEE JAZZ B5

KEEPING THE PARTY GOING—Michael Mwenso & the Harlem Shakes featuring Brianna Thomas keeping the crowd moving.

ENJOYING THE PARTY—Jetaime McTier, Wanda Jackson and Atiya Abdelmalik came out to spend the night enjoying the music and the food.

ENJOYING THE MUSIC—Noni Kanau, Marisol Valentin, and Daidra Younger came out for all the different music.

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

ARTS & CULTURE

June Three Citiparks Farmers Markets

JUNE—Squirrel Hill, Carrick and Beechview sites join four markets currently open All markets sell farm-fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheese and baked goods, while several locations also sell flowers, small gifts and gardening items. Four Citiparks markets have been operating since early May: East Liberty (Monday afternoons), South Side (Tuesday afternoons), Downtown Pittsburgh (Friday middays) and North Side (Friday afternoons).For more information, visit www.Citiparks. net or call 412-422-6523.

Pgh Choir to tour New York

JUNE 22—The Concentio Choir of Pittsburgh School for the Choral Arts, will tour in New York and Pennsylvania in June before returning to Shadyside Presbyterian Church for a homecoming concert on Wednesday, June 22 at 7 pm.

The Shadyside performance is part of the church’s “Music for Midsummer Nights,” a mini-series of concerts from Music in a Great Space.

Cultural Trust Pgh JazzLive

JUNE 24-26—For three-days, internationally-renowned musicians will perform at one of the most highly anticipated festivals in the country in Pittsburgh’s Cultural District. Performances will take place in a variety of settings: outdoor stages, ticketed special engagements and indoor “gigs” at over 20 small venues throughout the Cultural District.

County Summer Concert Lineup

JUNE 24—Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald announced the lineup for the county’s 2016 Summer Concert Series, which features Grammy-winning and platinum-selling artists spanning genres and generations. South Park Amphitheater will host 14 free performances this season beginning at 7:30 p.m. June 3, with the Pittsburgh Opera. Other South Park highlights include: •June 24—Lit, the California pop-punk band that hit big in the 1990s with the song “My Own Worst Enemy;” •July 2—Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, playing patriotic favorites in honor of Independence Day; •July 8—The Bad Plus, progressive jazz “scientists” who have found a way to put a modern rock-oriented spin on jazz, while still honoring its forward-thinking traditions;All Arts & Culture Calendar events must be emailed to newsroom@newpittsburghcourier.com 2 weeks in advance.

CCAC South Campus Theatre “Fences”

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vocalist and percussionist, he created an exceptionally well-rounded musical environment that fostered Brianna’s emerging abilities.

At the tender age of six, Brianna made her singing debut performing a duet rendition of the jazz classic, “What A Wonderful World” with her father. At the age of eight she won her first of 13 trophies, all first place and overall, from various district and regional talent shows. Between the ages of eight and ten she had her first gigs performing for a variety of banquets, black tie affairs and as a guest on local radio stations. It didn’t take long for people to notice her talent and potential. Just shy of her teens, Brianna’s talents were discovered by distinguished jazz educator Mary Jo Papich. Soon after, Brianna toured Europe with the Peoria Jazz All-Stars, a big band under Ms. Papich’s direction. This was the beginning of Brianna’s career as jazz vocalist. Brianna’s singing is deeply enriched by an understanding of the masterful voices of jazz past. Beyond a healthy serving of sass, Sarah Vaughn’s influence contributes to Brianna’s style the artistic savvy needed to commu-

ed and produced with great musicians including Dwayne Dolphin, Sean Jones, Roger Humphries and Poogie Bell.

In 2010, Brett studied jazz and classical music with outstanding musicians such as Sean Jones at Duquesne University, where he also earned many solo performance awards before graduating.

In 2012, Brett won the Monterey Next Generation Jazz Festival competition, performing with a band he co-founded, Elevations, which led to him to performing at the 55th Monterey Jazz Festival later that year. In 2013, he began working with the multi-Grammy-award-winning bassist Marcus Miller.

Brett has now been touring with Marcus for three years JUST ENJOYING—Tammy Davis, Deanna Marie, Regan Thomas and Andrea Bowman enjoying the and is featured on his latest Grammy-nominated renights music, food and people who came out. cording, Afrodeezia. nicate myriad moods and Brett started playing music feelings as well as a keen at the age of 2, piano at 4. instrumental perspective. His early influences in music Add to that a coyness remi- were funk, gospel and jazz, niscent of Nancy Wilson, an and he was always interestElla-esque skill and enthu- ed in improvisation. By the siasm for scatting, and the time he was 9, Brett was perstylistic breadth and vocal forming locally; by his teens, grandeur evocative of Di- he was making a name for anne Reeves. Thomas will himself on the Pittsburgh jazz scene. Brett became an perform from 2-2:45 p.m.

Pittsburgh’s own Brett Wil- in-demand pianist throughliams will take the stage from out greater Pittsburgh, and 7:15 to 8:45 p.m. on June 26. he frequently played, record-

‘Power’ complete second season

ther back from his dream by his business partner Tommy (Joseph Sikora) who loves the drug game, and his former mentor, Kanan (Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson), fresh out of jail, and looking for revenge.

Season two has Ghost in a race against himself: can he get out of the drug game alive before Angela discovers who he is?

The third season of POWER premieres on a new night Sunday, July 17 at 9 p.m. on STARZ.

NEW YORK, N.Y.–ANCHOR BAY ENTERTAINMENT gears up for the much-anticipated release of the STARZ Original series “Power: The Compete Second Season” on Bluray™ and DVD. Executive Produced by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson and created

by Courtney A. Kemp (“The Good Wife”), POWER is a drama that straddles the opulent Manhattan lifestyle of the rich and infamous and the underbelly of the international drug

trade. The second season picks up where it left off: James “Ghost” St. Patrick (Omari Hardwick) doubling down on his drug business to save his nightclub and dream of a legitimate future. His work troubles pale in comparison to juggling his relationship with his wife, Tasha (Naturi Naughton), and his first love Angela (Lela Loren), who’s also an Assistant United States Attorney investigating his drug organization. Ghost is set fur-

Empowerment documentary

JUNE 23—The 2016 Clarion University Summer Musical Theatre will present “Godspell,” opening at 7:30 p.m. in Marwick Boyd Little Theatre. With music and new lyrics by Stephen Schwartz—composer of shows “Wicked” and “Pippin”—“Godspell” is a musical rendition of the Gospel of Matthew, with well known songs such as “Day by Day,” “Prepare Ye” and “God Save the People.”

Bulka comes to Pittsburgh

JUNE 25–Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival. It takes a lot of guts to expose your true self to others, and acclaimed singer, songwriter, poet, composer and music producer, Buika (pronounced BWEE-ka), does that every night she goes on stage. As plain as the tattoos on her skin, Buika bears her soul to her fans across the world, whom she affectionately calls her “tribe.”

This summer, Buika continues her journey of storytelling across Europe and South America in support of her latest album, fittingly named Vivir Sin Miedo (To Live Without Fear). Her eighth album and one with the most English lyrics, Vivir Sin Miedo, co-produced by Grammy Award-winning Swedish producer, Martin Terefe (Mary J. Blige, Mutya Buena, Coldplay) features Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Jason Mraz, German neo-soul artist Meshell Ndegeocello, and Spanish underground flamenco legend Potito.

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Pittsburgh Jazzlive Festival fundraiser

JUNE 16–25 The Community College of Allegheny County South Campus Theatre, in collaboration with Pittsburgh Playwrights Theatre Company, will present the award-winning Fences by August Wilson at 7:30 p.m. on. A powerful drama set in 1950s Pittsburgh, the play is the sixth in Wilson’s 10-part “American Century Cycle.” Like each of the plays, Fences explores the changing African-American experience and race relations, among many other themes. The play, which won the 1987 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the 1987 Tony Award for Best Play, was chosen for CCAC’s 50th Anniversary performance because of Wilson’s and the play’s strong association with Pittsburgh, according to George ATLANTA (BlackNews.

Jaber, CCAC Theatre professor and com)—“A Queen’s Discovdepartment head. ery: A Young Girl’s African

‘Godspell’ opens Clarion Summer Musical Theatre

JUNE 22-28, 2016

Journey To Find Her Greatness Within,” a documentary directed by 16-year-old Nzinga Anasa Braswell, has been selected for the 2016 International Film Festival hosted by the Atlanta Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Also, actress and AIDS activist, Sheryl Lee Ralph, will be the 2016 Ambassador for the Delta Sigma Theta International Film Festival!

A Queen’s Discovery follows Father’s Incorporated’s 2015 LEAP mission

trip to Africa from the perspective of Braswell.

Her journey to Ghana as a first time visitor gives her a unique comparison between her black American experience as a youth and what she discovered in Africa.

As a result of Nzinga’s travel, she has committed to raising funds for the Nikki Giovanni Scholarship Fund—which provides financial assistance for qualified students to attend secondary school; pays for tuition, boarding, travel, book, and other school related fees.

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PEOPLE

JUNE 22-28, 2016

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Brady serves on nuclear-powered submarine PEARL HARBOR—A 2007 Wilson Academy High School graduate and Pittsburgh, Pa. native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard one of the world’s most advanced nuclear-powered fast attack submarines, USS Cheyenne.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Jason Brady is an electronics technician, navigation serving aboard the Pearl Harbor-based submarine, one of 40 Los Angeles-class submarines making it the backbone of the submarine force.

A Navy electronics technician, navigation is responsible for the safe navigation of the ship.

“I like being the guy who does the navigating,” said Brady. “You have to pay close attention to all the navigation aids, the charts, and make sure you never bottom out.”

With a crew of 130, this submarine is 360 feet long and weighs approximately 6,900 tons. A nuclear-powered propulsion system helps push the submarine through the water at more than 25 mph.

Attack submarines are designed to hunt down and destroy enemy submarines and surface ships; strike targets ashore with cruise missiles; carry and deliver Navy SEALs; carry out intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions; and engage in mine warfare. Their primary tactical advantage is stealth, operating undetected under the sea for long periods of time.

“Submarine sailors never cease to amaze me with their ability to complete complex missions in the world’s most challenging environments,” said Rear Adm. Fritz Roegge, Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet. “Continued U.S. undersea superiority is not possible without their dedication, expertise and professionalism.”

According to Navy officials, because of the demanding environment aboard submarines, personnel are accepted only after rigorous testing and observation. Submariners are some of the most highly trained and skilled people in the Navy. The training is highly technical and each crew has to be able to operate, maintain, and repair every system or piece of equipment on

JASON BRADY board. Regardless of their specialty, everyone also has to learn how everything on the ship works and how to respond in emergencies to become “qualified in submarines” and earn the right to wear the coveted gold or silver dolphins on their uniform.

“The people are what make this ship what it is,” said Brady. “It’s a great reason to get up in the morning. We have a terrific command structure.”

Challenging submarine living conditions actually build strong fellowship among the elite crew, Navy officials explained. The crews are highly motivated, and quickly adapt to changing conditions. It is a busy life of specialized work, watches, and drills.

“I’m part of a team that protects this country, that is a big deal to me,” added Brady. “I enjoy my job and take enormous pride in it.”

(By U.S. Navy Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Steve Watterworth, Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs.)

Henderson keeps Navy Wing flying

JACKSONVILLE, Fla.—A 2009 North Allegheny High School graduate and Pittsburgh native is serving in the U.S. Navy aboard Naval Air Station Jacksonville, the largest base in the Southeast Region and third largest in the nation.

Lt. j.g. Weston Henderson is a pilot serving with Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing 11.

As a pilot, Henderson is responsible for flying the P-8A Poseidon aircraft and maritime patrols.

“What I enjoy most about my job is not only flying the Poseidons but also having the opportunity to travel,” said Henderson. “I also enjoy working with my fellow sailors and most importantly, seving my country.”

According to Navy officials, Wing 11’s history and reputation remain unparalleled since being commissioned on August 15, 1942. Throughout the decades, Wing 11 has continued to fly combat missions in direct support of the troops on the ground and delivered traditional maritime capabilities, real-time intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.

Beginning in the 1960s, the P-3C Orion, a land-based, long-range anti-submarine warfare patrol aircraft, replaced the P-2V Neptune fleet. After 50 years of faithful service and the 50th anniversary of Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Force, the P-3C Orion is being phased out of the fleet, according to Navy officials.

The P-8A is a modified Boeing airframe featuring a fully connected, state-of-theart, open architecture mission system designed for long-range anti-submarine warfare; anti-surface warfare; and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions, Navy officials explained.

“The U.S. Navy sometimes asks the impossible of our people. It is sailors that make the impossible possible,” said Capt.

Anthony Corapi, Commodore, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing 11. “Lt. j.g. Henderson is one example of a selfless servant of our nation. These heroes ask for very little recognition and perform their daily job with pride and professionalism defending freedom and our way of life around the world. Each member of the Navy’s combat team is crucial to our success. I am very

LT. J.G. WESTON HENDERSON proud to have Lt. j.g. Henderson on our team!”

Henderson is part of a crew that began a transition to the P-8A Poseidon in 2014.

Earlier this year, squadron VP-45 entered the Inter-Deployment Readiness Cycle in preparation for their first deployment as a P-8A squadron.

“I enjoy serving at this command because it has a great family atmosphere and there is excellent camaraderie amongst all the sailors here,” said Henderson.

According to Navy officials, the Navy continues to meet milestone after milestone on this world-class mission and is providing an aircraft with superior capabilities to the men and women in uniform that will have a lasting legacy promoting a global maritime strategy.

“Serving in the Navy has not only taught me how to be a pilot, but it’s taught me great leadership skills and good decision-making,” said Henderson.

(By Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs)

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: JUNE 30, 2016

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BUSINESS JUNE 22-28, 2016

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Former boxing champ encourages inventors

WHAT A CHAMP—Two-time heavyweight boxing champion, George Forman encourage inventors to believe in their product. (Photos by Diane I. Daniels)

In its 31st year INPEX, the Invention and brush/toothpaste that is specifically deNew Product Exposition is considered by signed to benefit disabled and elderly peoits conveners one of America’s largest in- ple participated in the show with the goal vention trade shows which features inven- to find a manufacturer. Patent pending, he tions, new products and innovations. said the brush, which is co-invented by a Based on past years, organizers expressed Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial that over 1,000 inventions from over 20 countries are a part of the event. “Since our first show in 1984 INPEX has evolved to be more than just a traditional trade show,” said Nicole Lininger, INPEX director. “It has developed into a meeting place, a space to find support, share experiences and gather information between inventors.”

The INPEX Inventors Resource Center, she pointed out was available providing inventors the opportunity to meet one-on-one with experts in the fields of marketing, manufacturing, direct response television and intellectual property.

Large noted companies that conducted private product searches seeking new products, according to INPEX conveners included QVC, Brookstone, Cuisinart, Partsmaster, Allstar Products Group, Schroeder and Tremayne, Inc., Danco, RPG, Great Star Tools and Pitchman, Marc Gill.

From Butler, Pa., Willie F. Hobbs the inventor of Twist- HOMETOWN INVENTOR—Willie F. Hobbs co-creator of the Twistn-Brush an all-in-one tooth- n-Brush aims for his inventions to help anybody struggling.

by Diane I. Daniels For New Pittsburgh Courier

Believe in your product, invest your time, money and effort into it and never give up, is advice George Foreman shared during his presentation at the recent InventHelp’s INPEX Trade Show held at the Monroeville Convention Center.

Referring to how the late heavyweight champion, Muhammad Ali said and believed he was pretty, Foreman, a two-time heavyweight boxing champion said that inventors and entrepreneurs have to say and believe as strongly about their product. “You have to continuously show your product until someone believes enough in your vision and dream to invest in it.”

In addition to his boxing career, Foreman is well known as the pitchman for the line of George Foreman Grills and Meineke Car Care Centers. A partner of InventHelp, Foreman also has a line of environmentally safe cleaning products, a line of personal care products, a prescription shoe for diabetics to prevent amputations and is involved with UFood Grille, a restaurant franchise based out of Burlington, Mass.

ALL THE WAY FROM THE BAHAMAS—Full filling her own need, 39-year-old Kenya Mortimer-Mckenzie sits on her combination bench couch invention.

Surgeon, Dr. Henry W. Ferguson, passes TSA requirements.

With the hopes to be like George Crum; the creator of the potato chip, Sarah E. Goode; inventor of the folding cabinet bed and Elijah McCoy inventor of the steam engine lubricator, all famous Black inventors, over 20 Black inventors participated in the three-day show with aspirations to gain notoriety, to establish relationships with potential distributors, manufacturers and venture capitalists or to establish a license or sales agreement.

Aside from hearing and the opportunity to meet Foreman, pitching their products and participating in a series of seminars, presentations and panel discussions conducted by officials from George Foreman Inventor’s University inventor’s, inventions and new products were qualified to compete in the INPEX International Invention Awards Program. Convention planners said entries were judged by an international jury with winners determined on the basis of usefulness, creativity and overall appeal. Winners received metals, trophies and cash prizes up to $7500.

Larry B. Carswell from Savannah, Ga. and the inventor of Mudder, a paddle winch won the 2016 International Grand Prix Award of a $7500 cash prize and was declared Inventor and Invention of the Year at the INPEX awards ceremony. He also won first place gold medals for Innovative Excellence in the categories of Design (Technical), Engineering, Specialized Technology, and Recreation.

Excited and up to the challenge of getting his product on the market, Carswell said this was his first time attending and participating in the INPEX Show. He deSEE ENCOURAGES C2

RADical presentation at PowerBreakfast

by Christian Morrow

a pulse—where something is going on,” he said. “And If you’re negotiating with Asian firms, the Japanese won’t even conThere is a set of Zurich Insurance ads sider a place that doesn’t have a symthat feature professional golfers hooked up phony.” to lie detectors and asked things like, “Do RAD funds the Pittsburgh Symphony, it you love golf more than your wife’s cook- also funds 200 libraries, the Zoo, the ing?”

Aviary, county and PittsAfter telling the audience burgh parks, mass transit, at the African American and provides operating Chamber of Commerce “We require all our ap- grants to musical, theatriJune 17 PowerBreakfast cal and arts organizations plicants to have a di- throughout the county. how he spent a torrential rain delay at the U.S. Open And it not only supports versity plan and a acat Oakmont the day before, diversity, it demands it. cessibility plan..”

Allegheny County Regional “We require all our appliAsset District Executive DiRICHARD HUDIK cants to have a diversity rector Richard Hudik Allegheny County plan and an accessibility should do one. plan,” said Hudik. That’s Regional Asset District our requirement, beyond “I spent 71 minutes trapped in an outhouse Executive Director the requirements of the legwith three other people,” he islation that created RAD said. “Hey, I’m fat and I love back 20 years ago. We want golf.” to know about the minority He also loves economic development. makeup of your board and staff.”

During his previous tenure with the state And because the support grants RAD Department of Community and Economic makes are all taxpayer dollars—half of Development, he was the lead negotiator the 1-percent county sales tax—the apon the state side working to bring the plication process is entirely transparShell ethane cracker facility to Beaver ent.

County. And though RAD’s focus is fund“Any organization asking us for money ing cultural assets, they are often critical has to come before the board and make to business attraction, retention and job their pitch. The press is there. It’s all pubcreation.

SEE RADICAL C2 “Businesses want to locate where there’s Courier Staff Writer

PRESENTATION—Allegheny County Regional Asset District Executive Director Richard Hudik at African American Chamber PowerBreakfast.

C2 JUNE 22-28, 2016

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

BUSINESS

Forman encourages inventors CONTINUED FROM C1

KIERNA MAYO

Mayo to lead Interactive One’s digital properties NEW YORK/PRNewswire/—Interactive One, the definitive digital destination for African American and Millennial audiences, today announced the hiring of Kierna Mayo as the new Senior Vice President of Content and Brands, effective June 27. Widely known as an industry leading content creator, Mayo is an exciting addition to Interactive One. The award-winning former Editor in Chief, VP, Digital Content of Ebony magazine brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to her new position, having worked across multiple content areas and media platforms. Mayo joins the Interactive One family during a time of accelerating growth, as the company expands to reach a broader Millennial audience, while continuing to super-serve its core African American base. In addition to overseeing editorial direction and content strategy, Mayo will spearhead the expansion of video initiatives across iOne’s national brands—GlobalGrind, HelloBeautiful, NewsOne and TheUrbanDaily—as they further establish themselves as a source of video content central to Millennial and Black culture.

“As a visionary media executive, Kierna has an impressive range of experience in areas which span the breadth of Interactive One’s portfolio,” says, Detavio Samuels, President of Interactive One and One Solution. “She has a history of not only covering the news, but also creating the conversation, which is a lynchpin of iOne’s future content strategy.”

With over 20 years of editorial experience—starting out as an early Hip-Hop journalist and later co-founding and serving as Editor in Chief of the groundbreaking Honey Magazine—Mayo has been a pivotal contributor to many outlets, including BET Networks, Tyra.com, Essence, and Hearst Magazines. In her new role at Interactive One, she will continue her trajectory of innovation, leadership and talent development.

“The chance to bring my creative vision to the suite of iOne brands is the career move of a lifetime,” Mayo shares.

“As the digital medium continues to evolve, the opportunity to expand Interactive One’s brands, offerings, and connections with their audiences, is limitless. I am honored to join forces with the company and to help it grow to unseen heights.”

It’s that time of year again when days are longer, temperatures are higher and auto dealers advertise some of the most tempting deals. And while there’s nothing new about new car fever or the annual ad blitz, there’s a good deal of news on how consumers are choosing and paying for their cars.

For example, new car sales increased more than 5 percent from a year ago.

At the same time, the average credit score for a new car loan dropped to 710 and even lower to 645 for a used vehicle.

These data points provided by Experian, a major market intelligence firm, also recently reported that today the average monthly car payments are also at an all-time high: $503 for a new car and $376 for a used one. Car loan terms are also longer and the amounts financed are both larger too. On average, both new and used car loans are respectively 68 and 66 months. The average new car loan is now an all-time high at $30,032.

“The continued rise in new vehicle costs have kept many consumers exploring options to keep their monthly payments affordable,” said Melinda

easy to use, and the blades clip on and off for easy cleaning.

Several Black women inventions taking part in the show included Bottlesocks and Bags by Vanessa Hodges from Chesapeake, Va. The fabric insulated cover helps keep a water bottle colder longer. The Super Towel Draper by

Kenya Mortimer-Mckenzie from Nassau, Bahamas is considered a four-in-one bench, chaise, twin size and full size bed. MortimerMckenzie’s invention won the Gold Medal Award during the INPEX Invention Show 2013.

Hobbs, also an artist and author said he enjoyed his experience at the INPEX

scribes Mudder as a very unique and oneof-a-kind winch designed to make cable winches obsolete by eliminating the need for a cable. “Mudder’s self-contained winching system can free a stuck ATV or UTV without any assistance,” he said. Pointing out that it’s easy to install on any ATV without any changes to the current wiring systems being used today, he said the ATV rider simply pushes a button.

Carswell also explained that Mudder’s winch is battery operated so the ATV does not have to be running or operational at the time Mudder is used.

“Mudder can be operated by either a hand-held control or a remote control, which means one can walk ahead of the ATV and it will follow them, or they can sit on the ATV and let Mudder pull their ATV with them on it.”

Pleased with the opportunity of meeting George Foreman, Carswell said he also accomplished his goal AND THE WINNER IS—First time INPEX Show participant, Larry B. Carswell from Savanof gaining interest nah, Ga. Mudder invention wins 2016 International Grand Prix Award of a $7500 cash from several big com- prize. panies including licensing deals. After working on his product Mary Melvin from Holly- Show. A U.S. Army veteran for three years he says investing and trav- wood, Fla. The item is de- that considers his self a hueling to the area to participate in the scribed as a dual level manitarian says his goal is draper providing full pro- to help anybody struggling INPEX show was well worth it.

Inventor E. Fitzmore Hughes of On tection to clothing during to lead a normal, happy life.

Course Innovations based in New York shampooing and chemical The INPEX Show is aiding Convertible him in accomplishing his was one of over 45 Gold Medal winners treatments. for new product categories including sci- Furniture, designed by mission. ence, construction, environmental, design (technical), engineering, specialized technology, and recreation. His product the Rapid Slicer Dicer won the Award of Merit.

Hughes describes On Course Innovations as a company that takes a solution approach in designing its products.

“My designs are bold and fresh,” he said.

“The innovations aim to simplify life.” The Rapid Slicer Dicer he describes as a kitchen tool that slices and INVENTOR EXTRAORDANAIRE—With his inventions being sold on Amazon, inventor E. dices vegetables Fitzmore Hughes of On Course Innovations won the Award of Merit during the InventHelp’s quickly and easily INPEX Trade Show. without touching; is

RADical presentation at PowerBreakfast CONTINUED FROM C1

lic,” he said. “We have to give some of them the buzzer, and some we have to hook off the stage.”

Organizations begin submitting applications in June for the mid-July deadline.

They make their public pitches, usually in august, and the board then makes its preliminary funding suggestions in the fall.

Those are followed by a public comment period, after which the board makes its final decisions.

According to some of the figures from RAD’s just released 2015 annual report, last year those decisions resulted in more than 23 million people attending RADfunded events, with 585,000 of them receiving free tickets.

Its funding also resulted in $753 million in direct spending and helped keep more than 9,000 people employed. Rad funding also helped leverage millions more in bond financing. Its budget was $96 million.

In her closing remarks, chamber President and CEO Doris Carson Williams thanked Hudik, noting they are neighbors in the Koppers building. She also thanked those who attended last month’s mixers and the Chamber’s Annual Meeting and Luncheon.

She also welcomed new members and reminded members the chamber will be marching in the city’s 200th Anniversary parade July 19, and will have a special breakfast meeting July 22. Greater Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce President Matt Smith will be the speaker.

(Send comments to cmorrow@newpittsburghcourier.com.)

Rising car costs no reason to take predatory car loans Zabritski, Experian’s senior direcCharlene Crowell tor of automotive finance. “As long as vehicle prices continue to rise, we can expect leasing rates to grow along with them. . . .The record highs we have seen in vehicle prices also have had a sigoften consumers of color— nificant impact on the loan especially Blacks and Latimarket.” nos—consistently try to neConsumers short on savgotiate a ‘good car deal’ but ings for a down payment, often wind up paying more but anxious for a new or than others. The practice of nearly-new car may opt for car dealers adding extra a lease rather than a purinterest to a car loan has a chase—a very complex long history of discriminatransaction with pitfalls of tion that has led to a series its own. During the first of multi-million dollar setquarter of 2016, nearly a tlements with finance arms third of all new car transof major auto manufacturactions were leases. ers and other ones with For consumers, the really banks. ‘good deal’ is tied to not Fortunately, the Conjust the cost of the car; but sumer Financial Protection the terms of the sale as Bureau recently developed well. Sale or lease prices, a series of consumer reinterest rates, length and sources that can better inother items are also impor- form those making decitant to the art of ‘the deal’. sions. Topics included in Unfortunately, all too the series cover: how to

Commentary

plan for a purchase; loan options and how to better negotiate a car loan. A consumer guide available for download can also serve as a handy reference, providing greater detail on the process from determining how much to borrow to closing the sale.

Most importantly, CFPB provides specific steps to take before going to dealers. The CFPB strongly encourages consumers to get an offer from a bank, credit union or other finance source before setting foot in the dealership. The Bureau also urges caution when striking agreements with dealers. Consumers should carefully review loan paperwork to catch differences between what was verbally promised against what the paperwork requires borrowers to do. Consumers should never sign any loan with unclear terms, blank

BUSINESS CALENDAR Vision Pittsburgh Luncheon

JUNE 22—Vision Pittsburgh’s quarterly Luncheon series continues with a presentation by Vivien Li, president and CEO of RiverLife, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Duquesne Club, 325 Sixth Avenue, Downtown. Li will discuss her organization’s mission to reclaim, restore and promote Pittsburgh’s riverfronts. Cost for the event is $65.

Training Event JUNE 22—Duquesne University’s Small Business Center presents First Step: Business Start-up Essentials, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Rockwell Hall, 108, 600 Forbes Avenue, Uptown, designed for new business startups and entrepreneurs without previous business experience. The program will cover: Business Structure and Formation, Fictitious Name Registration, Employee Issues, Insurance, Government Procurement, Environmental Concerns, Financing Options, Taxation Requirements, and Major Components of the Business Plan. Cost is $25. for more information, call 412-3966233.

Job Expo JUNE 28—Monster Resume, Dollar Bank and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette present the 2016 HiringPittsburgh Expo & Operation Hire a Veteran at the Duquesne University Power Center Ballroom, 600 Forbes Avenue. The veterans’ event, from 10-11 a.m., includes specialized opportunities, career counseling and continental breakfast.

The Career Expo for All from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. features employers from all industries, Monster job seeker resource center and onsite resume services.

Disaster Loan Deadline

DORIS CARSON WILLIAMS

spaces or language they do not completely understand.

According to the Center for Responsible Lending : •80 percent of car loans are financed through dealers; •At more than one trillion dollars, outstanding car loans are the third highest amount of consumer debt, surpassed only by mortgages and student loans; and •Although borrowers of color report trying to negotiate loan terms more than other consumers, they wind up paying more for financing.

A fact sheet on how to avoid a predatory car loan is available on CRL’s web.

“Car prices are rising faster than incomes, so consumers are faced with taking on longer loans,” said Chris Kukla, CRL executive vice president. “The CFPB’s new guide rightly puts the focus on the overall cost of the car. Lenders are taking big chances when making loans for 7 or 8 years—borrowers should think long and hard before taking one.”

(Charlene Crowell is a communications manager with the Center for Responsible Lending. She can be reached at Char lene.crowell@responsiblelending. org.)

JULY 5—The U.S. Small Business Administration is reminding businesses that they have until July 5 to apply for low interest Working Capital Loans to address damages and issues related to the excessive rain, flooding, high winds and lightning from May 28 through July 15 of 2015. To apply, visit https://disasterloan.sb a.gov/ela.

Build Your Business Workshop JULY 30—The Women Business Center in partnership with Hill CDC an SCORE® Pittsburgh present a Build Your Business Workshop to women interested in starting or expanding their business, from from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Hill CDC offices, 2015 Centre Avenue.

Business experts and seasoned entrepreneurs will discuss the following topics: business planning, marketing and sales, financing, legal issues and business lessons learned. The cost is $20. Veterans are free and there are a number of 50-percent scholarships available.

Register online at http://www.chatham.e du/ wbc.

(To have information on Business Calendar, send information at least two weeks in advance to: 315 E. Carson St., Pittsburgh, PA 15219; Fax: 412-481-1360 or e-mail: newsroom@ newpittsburghcourier.com.)

New Pittsburgh Courier

SPORTS

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JUNE 22-28, 2016

www.newpittsburghcourier.com

LeBron leads Cavs to ‘One for the ‘Land’

by Ulish Carter

hometown Bulls, he had to have felt happy for LeBron as the Chosen One finally brought an NBA Championship home to Cleveland after being drafted by the Cavaliers No. 1 overall 13 years ago in the 2003 NBA Draft.

In a best-of-seven series that had consisted of blowouts in all six of the previous games, Game 7 was by far the most exciting, as either team could have won the 2016 NBA Championship in the final minute. President Obama couldn’t miss a moment of one of the greatest games in NBA Playoffs history and really, who could blame him? As it was reported that he held up Air Force One to watch the game.

Courier Staff Writer

It was suppose to be the year of the Golden State Warriors. They were the defending champion, they had just completed a sparkling 73-9 record setting season. So all they had to do was walk through the NBA finals and they would be hailed as the greatest team ever assembled. But LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers said no.

LeBron returned home from the Miami Heat where he was coming off two consecutive NBA championships to bring his hometown a championship.

Upon arriving in Cleveland he found an average team and a coach who had never played or coached in the NBA and teammates who had never won anything. All this he almost turned around last season but key injuries to Kevin Young and Tyrie Irving led to a Golden State victory in the finals 4-2.

For some strange reason as the Cavs struggled during the first part of the season with their coach and players trying to find their chemistry together everyone was crowning the Warriors as the greatest team ever and many even believed Steph Curry was the best player in the league.

Yes, better than LeBron James. Wow. So while Golden State was piling up victories during the regular season the Cavs were preparing for the playoffs.

First they got rid of their coach and replaced him with Assistant Coach Tyrone Lue who had never been a head coach but had played in the NBA for several years and was well respected by the players, especially LeBron.

After experimenting with several different starting lineups, they finally settled on J. R. Smith, and Tristan Thompson to go with Kevin Young, Kyrie Irving and LeBron. The key guys off the bench being veteran Richard Jefferson, Matt Dellavedova and Iman Shumpert.

This lineup took them to the finals, but when Young struggled against the Warriors, Richard Jefferson stepped in and the Cavs didn’t miss a beat.

Even after going down to the Warriors 3-1 after breezing through the East, behind the amazing play of Irving and LeBron the Cavs made it 3-2, then 3-3 then going into the Warriors house for game 7 they became the first team in history to come back from a 31 deficit to win the NBA title. The theme, started by

Overtime

by Bill Neal For New Pittsburgh Courier

LeBRON JAMES LeBron, “One for the ‘Land” finally came true wiping out a 52 year drought for Cleveland. The Cavs had never won a championship.

The last Cleveland team was the Jim Brown led Cleveland Browns back in 1964.

In perhaps the biggest game of his career, LeBron had the game of his life.

LeBron was named Finals MVP after scoring 27 points, 11 rebounds and dishing out 11 assists.

The vote was unanimous, according to NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.

He scored his 16th triple double in the playoffs and seventh in an NBA Finals game—only two other players had recorded triple dou-

TYRIE IRVING

bles in a Finals Game 7.

“Cleveland, this is for you!” LeBron, an Akron, Ohio, native, shouted through tears in post-game interviews.

He returned to his hometown team in 2014 after an acrimonious split in 2010.

He joined the Miami Heat with fellow All-Stars Chris Bosh and Dwyane Wade, winning two titles there, and losing one.

He decided to return to the Cavs in 2014 hoping to end the title drought for Cleveland.

“The people of Cleveland deserve this more than any other people I’ve ever seen or met or felt,” Cavs owner Dan Gilbert said. “No group deserves this more. No fan base deserves this more.

I’m speechless and proud of everybody.”

More tears. Only this time, tears of joy.

On Father’s Day, LeBron, the kid from nearby Akron brought the title home.

As the final seconds of Cleveland’s 93-89 victory at Golden State in Game 7 ticked off on the giant scoreboard inside Quicken Loans Arena, 18,000 fans, some of them strangers when Sunday night began, cried, hugged, screamed and shared a moment many of them have spent a lifetime dreaming of.

They then linked arms and shouted the words to Queen’s “We Are The Champions,” a song that only seemed reserved for others.

Though the Cavaliers are bitter Central Division rivals of President Obama’s

Inside Conditions…Behind the ‘8’ ball

by Aubrey Bruce For New Pittsburgh Courier

Monday past as far as I am concerned was a date in Pirates infamy because on the night before, the Pirates were swept, swept, sweeeeeeeept…by the Chicago Cubs. The Cubs did not just beat the Pirates, they embarrassed the baseball club from the Steel City.

The Pirates aren’t looking as bad as they looked ten or even five years ago but it does appear as if the Bucs’ are lacking just a bit of energy and hustle. Meanwhile the Pirates and the St. Louis Cardinals are being scorched and left behind by the Cubs.

As far as last weekend’s shellacking is concerned.

Even “baby” Cubs took the time to whack the Pirates around.

One of the highly regarded prospects for the Cubs, Willson Contreras crushed a pitch from Pirates reliever A.J. Schugel

LeBron wasn’t the only star for Cleveland. The oftinjured Cavaliers point guard Irving missed nearly 30 games this season, but averaged almost 20 points per game. But he’s been on the court for all 20 postseason games and has bumped up the production, putting in 25.5 per contest.

In the Cavs’ past two elimination games against the Golden State Warriors, Irving scored 41 points in Game 5 and 23 in Game 6 to help Cleveland force a winner-take-all Game 7 in which he scored the game winning three-pointer.

Veteran forward Richard Jefferson, who was a key player off the bench in the Cavs win, announced his retirement. Going out a winner.

AUBREY BRUCE as the Cubs dismantled and destroyed the Pirates. Contreras did everything but jump for joy in regards to his first big league-at-bat resulting in a round tripper.

Sporting an ear-to-ear smile Contreras said, “It’s incredible I don’t have the words to explain how happy I am.” Hey I am also pre…..tttty darn sure that Chicago Cubs manager Joe Madden is at a loss as how to explain how giddy he is

to have this great young prospect on his team.

What is wrong with Andrew McCutchen? He is swinging at some very questionable pitches. He also looks a bit distracted.

Is he getting enough sleep?

Is everything alright in his personal life? He just does not seem like he is comfortable in or out of the batter’s box. There are a few “trade rumors” dripping off the lips of those who are supposed to know but I don’t believe Pirates manager Clint Hurdle is about to give up on his All Star centerfielder.

But who knows….Money talks and B.S….skips along. And another thing, why can’t folks leave Barry Bonds the heck alone?

There was a caller on a local radio show who initially had called in to talk about the Pirates shaky pitching staff, when right in the middle of the call, he went off into this rant about Bonds. This “fan” sounded as if, (I am not kid-

ding) he was on meth or crack. I am disappointed that he was not cut off, but this particular host loves controversy. I think that Pirate fans have enough to worry about than the alleged P.E.D’s used or not used by Barry Bonds more than 20 years ago.

Chicago Cubs pitcher Jake Arrieta has been and is currently suspected of “getting juiced” by something and the Cubs are beating the Pirates around like they have been caught shoplifting so I suggest that the Pirates fan base worry about our Bucs’ getting healthy so the Pirates can make a run at one of the wildcard spots. I am confident that the Pirates will turn things around after they get their full starting lineup back but it is going to be a challenge, to say the least. (The source for this story was espn.com) (Aubrey Bruce can be reached at: abruce@newpittsburgh courier.com or 412-583-6741. Follow him on Twitter@ultrascribe.)

:10—-Somehow you just can’t bring yourself to believe that “The Fix” was on.

Just because “Zik” said a fix is impossible. You know the NBA wanted seven games, and more importantly for Cleveland to have a championship…C’mon Man!!! :09—The 42nd annual Willie Stargell Pittsburgh MVP Awards coming your way Wednesday, June 29 at the Fabulous Savoy Restaurant 6 p.m. reception 7 p.m. awards. Honoring the Great B.B. Flenory as the 2015-16 MVP of the year along with 19 other Pittsburgh legends. Check it out. :08—Top 10 male MVP’s…Frederick Douglas, Darelle Porter, Larry Richert, Louis Lipps, Odell Richardson, Al Smith, Alex Beasley, Alex Matthews, David Moore, Jeff Clement. :07—Top 10 female MVP’s…Brenda Tate, Regina Holly, Naomi Allen, Nicole Navarez, Tia HarrisMcClung, Lorraine Turner, Shayla Scott, Wrenna Watson, Alice Logan, Doreen Moore. :06—Hold up, I’m not done yet. You mean to tell me that Curry and Thompson scored “40” a game all year long and all of a sudden they can’t score 20 points to save their lives…C’mon Man!!! :05—This is old news boy and girls, but trust me it’s still the same. You can’t win

BILL NEAL baseball games without pitching and hitting. End! :04—If you vote for Donald Trump we will hunt you down, we will find you and you will be dealt with accordingly! I’m just saying! :03—Mark my words Tiger Woods will return, and with a vengeance! :02—Many of you don’t know the name Donny “The Wizard” Wilson, but he is quite simply the greatest guard in Penn Hills basketball history. And is the man that made the great George Karl famous. R.I.P. “Wizard.” :01—Everybody in Russia is doped up. But you can’t understand why they wanna fight all the time.

It’s cause they got the good stuff Mmmaaannn! :00—Alright, alright, LeBron is king of the world.

Now shut up about it!

Game Over

CLASSIFIED New Pittsburgh Courier

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JUNE 22-28, 2016

www.newpittsburghcourier.com

SONNY BOY

JOB OPPORTUNITIES Help Wanted

COURIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS!

2ND/3RD TEACHING POSITION OPENING AT PUCS

Pittsburgh Urban Christian School, located near downtown Wilkinsburg, is a small and loving K-8 community of ethnic and economic diversity.

Send resume and cover letter to christy.wauzzinski@pucs.org Applications received by June 30 are assured of full consideration.

SHUTTLE DRIVERS – PART-TIME

Point Park University is seeking a driver to provide transportation service between downtown Pittsburgh, Oakland and other areas as requested. Successful candidates must be at least 21, possess a valid driver’s license (Commercial Driver’s License is preferred) with a good driving record, pass a physical and background check, drug screening, all training and other requirements. Must be available to work all shifts, Monday through Sunday. The schedule generally supports the academic calendar. Average 25-30 hours a week. Qualified applicants should submit, by email, a cover letter and resume to: HR Office@pointpark.edu (preferred) or mail to Point Park University, Human Resources Office, 201 Wood Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. EOE

ORACLE APPLICATION DEVELOPER

Position available at University of Pittsburgh, Dept. of Financial Information Systems in Pittsburgh, PA. Participate in all aspects of Oracle E-Business Suite development and support including Fast Formula, Workflow, Custom Library, interfaces, reports and forms. Responsible for the following duties: Analyze end user needs and develop specifications documenting solutions to their requests; Develop logically sound programming specifications and develop the programs; Deploy and/or implement computer programs and all associated documentation to the production staff and end users; Test developed computer programs with various test data, business/technical scenarios, and test the interface/integration of those programs with other programs and software systems; Document all computer program changes, create and modify operational documentation and write program specifics; Develop and monitor project plans and take action to ensure that plan deadlines are met in a timely fashion; Other related duties as required.

Requirements: Master’s degree or foreign equivalent degree in Information Science, Computer Science, Business or related field plus (2) years of information systems experience including one (1) year of programming experience utilizing database technology or in the alternative a Bachelor’s degree or foreign equivalent degree in Information Science, Computer Science, Business or related field and five (5) years of progressively responsible information systems experience including three (3) years of programming experience utilizing database technology; Experience with Oracle forms and reports, SQL, PL/SQL, Java, structured programming techniques and software documentation; Experience with Oracle DBMS. Apply Online: www.pittsource.com position #0122286 The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EEO/AA/M/F/Vets/Disabled

ZIMBABWE PARTNERSHIP COORDINATOR

Western Pennsylvania Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church seeks Zimbabwe Partnership Coordinator in Cranberry Township, PA to implement programs designed to promote religious education and activities on behalf of the United Methodist Church, specifically concerning our missionary work in Zimbabwe. Duties will include travel to Zimbabwe to lead groups to perform missionary activities, including working with local churches in Zimbabwe, and fundraising and recruiting and training volunteers for missionary work stateside. Requirements: Master’s degree in International Relations, International Development, or related field. Must be conversant in the Shona language.

Must be able to travel frequently to locations in the United States for brief missional gatherings, and to Zimbabwe for as much as four weeks at a time. Mail resume to: Rev. Gregory Cox, Western Pennsylvania Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, 1204 Freedom Rd., P.O. Box 5002, Cranberry Twp., PA 16066.

SYSTEMS PROGRAMMER III

Position available at University of Pittsburgh, Dept. of Biomedical Informatics, in Pittsburgh, PA. Responsible for analyses and interpretation of large high throughput biological datasets including but not limited to expression, mirco RNA, SNP, methylation and Next Gen sequencing technologies. Responsible for the following duties: •Collaborate with biomedical researchers in genomic, proteomics, imaging, bioinformatics and related disciplines and assume significant or primary responsibility for providing bioinformatics solutions and software development for publications and research proposals; •Perform complex analysis in genomics datasets including next generation sequence data; •Analyze whole genome, exome, CHIPseq, RNA seq data; •Perform timely and accurate bioinformatics analysis to aid researchers in performing high-throughput data analysis; •Work with end users and domain experts to understand software and data requirements; •Provide informal training and consulting to end users on the functionality and use of developed applications and resolve inquiries about data integrity and consistency; •Maintain accurate and detailed records of all research and experiments performed.

Requirements: •Master’s degree or foreign equivalent degree in Computer Science, Information Science, Bioinformatics or related field; •3 years of experience in bioinformatics software development and large data systems data mining and analysis; •Experience working with microarrays or complex biological datasets; •Experience with major public genomic databases; •Experience with the following: R or MATLAB, Java, C/C++, Python, Unix Shell scripting and UNIX cluster administration; •Knowledge and proficiency with basic statistical methods.

Please apply online at: www. pittsource.com position #0133722 The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EEO/AA/M/F/Vets/Disabled

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JOB OPPORTUNITIES

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

LEGAL ADVERTISING

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Bids/Proposals

Seneca Valley School District SUPERVISOR OF GIFTED EDUCATION AND STUDENT SERVICES Available immediately, 244 days per year; Principal Certification K-12 or Supervisor of Special Education Certification; minimum of 5 years of teaching experience in all aspects of gifted education and student services. Provide leadership in the development, implementation, and coordination of gifted education and District student services programs.

Submit required information to Talent Ed at: https://senecavalley. cloud.talentedk12.com/hire/ index.aspx. Deadline: July 6, 2016.

Applications accepted until position is filled. Seneca Valley is committed to diversity in the workplace. E.O.E.

DUQUESNE CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Duquesne City School District is seeking the following: Substitute Teachers. Requirements include a valid PA teaching certificate.

Substitute School Nurse. Requirements include Bachelor Degree in Nursing; R.N. License; and valid PA School Nurse certificate.

Personal Care Assistants (PCA).

Requirements include Experience with school-age children; High School Diploma or GED; Standards as required by Federal and State regulations; Alternatives as the Board may find appropriate and acceptable.

Paraprofessionals.

Requirements include High School Diploma or GED. Associates degree or minimum 60 credit hours from accredited college/university required; Bachelor’s preferred.

All candidates must have current Act 151/34/114 clearances.

Questions about the position should be directed to Debra Zimarowski, Special Education Consultant (Duquesne City School District), at (412) 466-8130 Please send resume, cover letter and clearances to Duquesne City School District, 300 Kennedy Avenue, Duquesne, Pa 15110, ATTN: Human Resources/PR. EOE Applications will be accepted until July 15, 2016

STAFF ENGINEER @ ALCOA (ALCOA CENTER, PA)

F/T. Cndct indpndntly applied resarch to dvlp new/modified prodcts &/or processing of heat treatable & non-treatable aluminum alloys.

Particpte in initiation, planning, & execution of prjcts for alloy dvlpmt, fabrication & process imprvmt. Req Ph.D. or foreign equiv in Materials Sci/Engg, Metallurgical Engg or rltd & 1 yr exp as Researcher, Eng or rltd. Alt empl will accept Master’s in Materials Sci/Eng, Metallurgical Eng or rltd & 3 yrs exp as Researcher, Engg or rltd. Exp must incl: utilizing methodology, tests, & equip used in characterization of light alloys (AIbased, Ti-based alloys, incld optical metallography equip: SEM, TEM, X-ray, XPS, AES, nano-indentation, dilatometry, tensile testing, fatigue testing, fatigue crack growth testing, DSC, DTA, and TGA); metal-based additive manufacturing methods, incld laser & electron-beam processes for both powder & wire feedstock; powder metallurgy processing, incld: powder production, powder anlysis (PSD, flow, density), powder consolidation (uniaxial pressing, isostatic pressing), & sintering; phase transformation, phase precipitation/ dissolution reactions, OR solidification theory/multi-component phase diagrams in light alloys; light alloys physical metallurgy w/t emphasis on interactions between alloy design, processing microstructure, & mechanical properties; designing R&D experiments, analyzing data & identifying important variables & physically significant trends; tech writing & presentation of tech findings. Employer will accept any suitable combination of education, training, or experience. To apply, e-mail resume to humanresources.atc@alcoa. com. Ref. job title.

COURIER CLASSIFIEDS GET RESULTS!

DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE

The New Pittsburgh Courier is looking for a display advertising sales executive with 3-5 years experience in media sales. This full-time staff position offers salary + commission with full benefits after 90 days, paid vacation after 6 months. Must be a self-starter, with leadership skills, reliable transportation, strong computer, written and verbal communication skills. Must be able to work under deadlines, do comprehensive sales-related research and make sales presentations. Send resumes to egaines@newpittsburghcourier.com.

DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES COORDINATOR

The New Pittsburgh Courier has an immediate opening for a display advertising sales coordinator. Must have strong administrative skills, sales abilities, strong computer, written and verbal communication skills, some experience in media preferred, but all resumes will be considered. This full-time staff position offers salary + commission with full benefits after 90 days, paid vacation after 6 months. Digital and social media skills a plus, send resumes by July 1, 2016 to: egaines@newpittsburghcourier.com ANNOUNCEMENTS Meetings

MEETING

The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will hold its June 2016 Board of Commissioners meeting on THURSDAY June 23, 2016.

THE MEETING WILL BE HELD AT 10:30 A.M. 200 Ross Street, 13th Floor Wherrett Room, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 LEGAL ADVERTISING Legal Notices

Estate of FICHTER, MARY ALICE, Deceased, of McCandless. No. 02485. Exec.

Admin. Roberta A. Shirey, 86 Park Place East, Midland, PA 15059 or to Michael J. Saldamarco, ESQ., STE. 100, 908 Perry Hwy., Pttsburgh, PA 15229 15229-1120 Estate of PUDUP, DAVID, deceased of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania No. 02-16-02423.

Bernice Pudup, Administrator c/o Tener, Van Kirk, Wolf & Moore, P.C., One Oxford Centre, Suite 2100, 301 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, or to Todd T. Jordan, Esquire, Tener, Van Kirk, Wolf & Moore, P.D., One Oxford Centre, Suite 2100, 301 Grant Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.

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

NOTICE OF PROGRAM AVAILABILITY

Allegheny County, through its Department of Economic Development, wishes to announce that applications are available for the Allegheny Housing Development Fund (AHDF) 2016 Program Year (July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017). The Allegheny Housing Development Fund may provide project funds from one or more of the following sources: 1. HOME Investment Partnerships Program 2. Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) 3. Affordable Housing Trust Funds (Act 137) 4. Other Funds, as available Note that this application is required if you are proposing housing and CDBG is the sole source of funds you are requesting.

AHDF provides funding for projects that may include the following: 1. New construction of low/moderate income multi-family or senior rental housing.

2. Conversion of existing properties into low/moderate income multi-family or senior rental housing, such as old schools, warehouses, and municipal buildings.

3. Rehabilitation of vacant, existing multi-family rental housing developments for rent to low/moderate income tenants, either families or seniors.

4. New construction of single-family units (detached) or townhomes (attached) for purchase by low/moderate income buyers.

5. Rehabilitation of existing single-family or townhome units for purchase by low/moderate income buyers.

6. Projects with multiple funding sources, such as Low Income Housing Tax Credits, HUD mortgage loans or other funds from a non-County of Allegheny source.

Applicants need to complete the AHDF application whether or not state or other funds are also being pursued, and other applications may not be substituted for the AHDF application.

Projects considered for funds under this program are intended to stabilize neighborhoods whose viability have been and continue to be damaged by the economic effects of properties that have experienced or are continuing to experience disinvestment; or to locate housing in areas of opportunity that provide low/moderate income persons with improved access to transportation options and enhance school and employment opportunities.

Funds awarded will be secured by a mortgage (or mortgages) placed on the property for a period of five to thirty years. Funds are not provided in the form of grants. Affordability provisions run concurrently with the term of the mortgage(s).

Applicants are encouraged to identify all members of their development team in the application, such as architects, engineers, attorneys, marketers and general contractors.

Team members who are not identified via this application’s procurement process will be required to be procured via the Allegheny County procurement process, including public advertisement for professional or construction contracts of $30,000 or more.

Recipients of AHDF funds will be bound by Federal, State and County regulations including, but not limited to, those related to fair housing, equal employment opportunity, prevailing wage law, relocation and property acquisition, lead-based paint, provision of opportunities to Minority-, Women- and Disadvantaged-owned business enterprises (M/W/DBE) and to Veterans Owned Small Businesses (VOSB) and Section 3 opportunities.

The majority of the funds utilized require that households with incomes of no more than 80% of the Area Median Income be served. AHDF funds should be leveraged with other development dollars secured by applicants. HOME funds for rental projects require that tenants have incomes below 60% of AMI. To receive an application, contact Nathan Wetzel, Allegheny County Economic Development at (412) 350-3724 or by e-mail @ nathan. wetzel@county.allegheny.pa.us.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Submission of an application in no way guarantees an award of funds.

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

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LEGAL ADVERTISING

Bids/Proposals

Bids/Proposals

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR PARTIAL COMPREHENSIVE MODERIZATION WINDOW REPLACEMENT AT VARIOUS NORTHVIEW HEIGHTS UNITS IFB#300-30-16

OFFICIAL BID NOTICE

The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) hereby request proposals from qualified Firms or Individuals capable of providing the following service(s): PARTIAL COMPREHENSIVE MODERIZATION WINDOW REPLACEMENT AT VARIOUS NORTHVIEW HEIGHTS UNITS IFB#300-30-16 The documents will be available no later than June 13, 2016 and signed, sealed bids will be accepted until 10:00 A.M., July 6, 2016 at which time they will be Time and Date Stamped at 100 Ross Street 2nd Floor, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, at which time they will be opened and read aloud.

Parties or individuals interested in responding may download a copy of the Invitation for Bid from the Business Opportunities page of www.

HACP.org.

Questions or inquires should be directed to: Kim Detrick Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Department 2nd Floor, Suite 200 100 Ross Street Pittsburgh, PA 15219 412-456-5116 Opt 1 A pre bid meeting will be held: Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh Procurement Dept.

100 Ross Street 2nd. Fl. Ste. 200 Pittsburgh, PA 15213 Friday, June 24, 2016 10:00 A.M. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh strongly encourages certified minority business enterprises and women business enterprises to respond to this solicitation.

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

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

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

The Sports & Exhibition Authority will receive sealed bids for East Lobby Renovations (trade packages- general construction & electrical) as identified below for the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.

The design engineer is ED3 Consultants, Inc. 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: Linda Mihalic E-mail: lmihalic@pittsburghcc.com, Telephone: 412-325-6167 Facsimile: 412-325-6105. 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 http://www.accu-copy.com/plan room.html This Advertisement applies to the following Bid Package: Project: David L. Lawrence Convention Center Bid Packages (2 Contracts): East Lobby Renovations (General Construction & Electrical) Bid Packages Available: June 20, 2016 Approximate Value: $110,000 (GC$75,000; Electrical- $35,000) Time/Date/Location for Pre-Bid Meeting: 1:00 PM, June 23, 2016 David L. Lawrence Convention Center, 1000 Ft. Duquesne Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Time/Date/Location for Bid: 2:00 PM, July 7, 2016, avid L. Lawrence Convention Center, 1000 Ft. Duquesne Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15222

COURIER CLASSIFIEDS…THE ONLYWAYTO GO!

JUNE 22-28, 2016

SONNY BOY

TOWNSHIP OF UPPER ST. CLAIR Sealed Bids will be received by the Township of Upper St. Clair, 1820 McLaughlin Run Road, Upper St. Clair, PA 15241, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania until 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 19, 2016 for the following project: PERIMETER TRAIL INSTALLATION – BOYCE MAYVIEW PARK Please refer to the Township’s website at www.twpusc.org for details and requirements. /s/ Matthew R. Serakowski Township Manager

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Sealed bid proposals are hereby solicited for the Community College of Allegheny County, Purchasing Department, 800 Allegheny Avenue, Pittsburgh PA 15233(412.237.3020) on the following items: Bid Proposal No. 979 – Modifications to Chemistry Lab – South Campus A MANDATORY pre-bid meeting will be held on-site at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 28, 2016. The assembly point will be the South Campus Security Desk, inside main entrance around right side of complex, 1750 Clairton Road, West Mifflin, PA 15122.

Proposals will be received at the Purchasing Department until 2:00 P.M. Prevailing Time on Wednesday, July 6, 2016 at which time they will be publicly opened.

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

The CCAC Purchasing Department is now publishing all bids via the CCAC website at https:// www.ccac.edu/Bid-RFP_Oppor tunities.aspx. It will be each vendor’s responsibility to monitor the bid activity within the given website (“Bid and RFP Opportunities”) and ensure compliance with all applicable bid documents inclusive of any issued addenda. Failure to incorporate any applicable addenda in the final submittal may result in the rejection of your bid.

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.

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Sealed bid proposals are hereby solicited for the Community College of Allegheny County, Purchasing Department, 800 Allegheny Avenue, Pittsburgh PA 15233(412.237.3020) on the following items: Bid Proposal No. 977 – Replace Fire Protection Systems – Office of College Services A MANDATORY pre-bid meeting will be held on-site at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 23, 2016. The assembly point will be the Office of College Services lobby, 800 Allegheny Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15233.

Proposals will be received at the Purchasing Department until 2:00 P.M. Prevailing Time on Thursday, July 7, 2016 at which time they will be publicly opened.

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

The CCAC Purchasing Department is now publishing all bids via the CCAC website at https:// www.ccac.edu/Bid-RFP_Oppor tunities.aspx. It will be each vendor’s responsibility to monitor the bid activity within the given website (“Bid and RFP Opportunities”) and ensure compliance with all applicable bid documents inclusive of any issued addenda. Failure to incorporate any applicable addenda in the final submittal may result in the rejection of your bid.

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.

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

The Stadium Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will receive sealed bids for the Lot 1 Parking Facility. The contract for this work will be with the Stadium Authority of the City of Pittsburgh and assigned to Massaro Corporation. Inquiries regarding the bidding should be made to Massaro Corporation, 120 Delta Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15238, Attention: Jason McCandless, Project Manager, Email: jmccandless@massarocorporation.com, Telephone: 412-9632800 Facsimilie: 412-963-2880.

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 on Accu-Copy’s website at http://www.accu-copy.com.

Pre-bid Meeting for Packages #3-7: June 30, 2016, 9:00 AM at David L Lawrence Convention Center, 1000 Fort Duquesne Blvd., East Lobby, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Bids Due: July 14, 2016, 2:00 PM at Sports and Exhibition Authority, 171 10th Street, 2nd Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Bid Packages Available: June 20, 2016 Bid Package: Bid Package #3 General Trades Approximate Value: $5,000,000.00 Bid Package: Bid Package #4 Plumbing Approximate Value: $225,000.00 Bid Package: Bid Package #5 HVAC Approximate Value: $70,000.00 Bid Package: Bid Package #6 Electrical Approximate Value: $1,800,000.00 Bid Package: Bid Package #7 Landscaping Approximate Value: $150,000.00

Pick up your Courier at these locations WESTERN AREA: CRAFTON BEVERAGE CRAFTON/INGRAM SHOPPING CENTER GIANT EAGLE CRAFTON/INGRAM SHOPPING CENTER SHEETZ #353 5400 CAMPBELL’S RUN RD SHOP N’ SAVE #1686 2103 NOBLESTOWN RD SAFRANS SUPER MKT 429 WALNUT ST GIANT EAGLE #74 PARKWAY CENTER MALL SOUTHERN AREA: KEN’S 216 BELTZHOOVER AVE NELSON’S 92 SYLVANIA AVE GIANT EAGLE #61 2021 WHARTON AVE COGO’S 2400 EAST CARSON ST COGO’S 925 EAST CARSON ST DAILY MART 1125 ARLINGTON AVE SHOP N’ SAVE CARRICK SOUTH EASTERN AREA: SUPER STOP 403 KENMAWR AVE CARL’S CAFE 337 FIFTH AVE COMET NEWS 540 BRADDOCK AVE PUFFS DISCOUNT TOBACCO 1722 GREENSBUR AVE A-PLUS SUNOCO 7403 WASHINGTON ST COGO’S 1050 BRINTON RD COGO’S 2003 S BRADDOCK AVE EDGEWOOD EXPRESS 253 EDGEWOOD AVE BRAD EXPRESS 1101 S BRADDOCK AVE GIANT EAGLE #619 1705 S. BRADDOCK AVE CVS 7406 CHURCH ST HANINI MARKET 1105 SWISSVALE AVE DUKE’S SUNOCO 825 DUQUESNE BLVD 7-11 818 N. DUQUESNE BLVD GIANT EAGLE #6379 420 EAST WATERFRONT DR GIANT EAGLE— MCKEESPORT 3812 O’NEILL BLVD J & S FOOD MART 625 W GRANT AVE RITE AID PHARMACY 100 WILLIAM MARKS DR GIANT EAGLE 1356 HOFFMAN BLVD BP GAS STATION LYSLE & WALNUT DS FOODMART 929 UNION ST RITE AID PHARMACY 725 LYSLE BLVD CHARLIE’S CORNER STORE 500 LOCUST ST NEIGHBORHOOD DOLLAR 333 5TH AVE GIANT EAGLE #38 1901 MURRAY AVE JACK’S E 8TH AVE EASTERN AREA: WATERWORKS GIANT EAGLE #72 1005 FREEPORT RD— DIVINE HAIR STUDIO 10 DUFF RD GIANT EAGLE 9001 FRANKSTOWN RD GIANT EAGLE #78 230 RODI RD BP GAS STATION 11835 FRANKSTOWN RD THE SPOT 11675 FRANKSTOWN RD MASH MINI MART 4341 OLD WM. PENN HWY GIANT EAGLE #60

4004 MONROEVILLE BLVD GIANT EAGLE #76 AMES PLAZA, ROUTE 22 GET IT QUICK 500 GARDEN CITY DESTINY’S HAIR SALON 408 RODI RD PUFF’S DISCOUNT TOBACCO 10991 FRANKSTOWN RD SHOP N SAVE 3335 WILLIAM PENN HWY SHEETZ 3457 WILLIAM PENN HWY GETGO 10525 FRANKSTOWN RD CVS PHARMACY 10600 FRANKSTOWN RD SHELL OIL 7619 BAUM BLVD KIWI SUNOCO FRANKSTOWN AVE WILLIAM PENN SMOKE SHOP II 132 NORTH HIGHLAND AVE MARATHON GAS 6680 FRANKSTOWN AVE PENN AIKEN DAIRY 5401 PENN AVE GIANT EAGLE #17 6320 SHAKESPEARE ST HOMEWOOD MARKET 7201 FRANKSTOWN AVE SALIK HARDWARE 607 NORTH HOMEWOOD AVE NEGLEY A PLUS 123 NORTH NEGLEY AVE BAKER’S 7203 HAMILTON & STERRETT AVES DORSEY’S RECORDS 7614 FRANKSTOWN AVE HOSPITAL CORNER 4201 PENN AVE PEOPLES GROCERY 5136 PENN AVE A&M MARKET 5224 PENN AVE A-PLUS MINI MART 7701 PENN AVE WOOD & PENN 902 WOOD ST AL’S FISH & CHICKEN 1000 PENN AVE SAVE A LOT 725 ROSS AVE CVS PHARMACY 520 PENN AVE GETGO 408 PENN AVE QUICK STOP LIBERTY 3349 LIBERTY AVE K-2 CONVENIENT STORE 4900 PENN AVE SHUR SAVE 4120 MAIN ST SHELL GAS 6701 FRANKSTOWN RD UNIMART 5724 ELLSWORTH AVE GIANT EAGLE #77 254 YOST BLVD PUFF’S DISCOUNT TOBACCO 234 YOST BLVD SPEEDY MART 2131 ARDMORE BLVD SQUIRREL HILL NEWS 5804 FORBES AVE MURRAY AVE. NEWS 2024 MURRAY AVE GIANT EAGLE MURRAY AVE & LORETTA ST DISCOUNT TOBACCO & NEWS 1929 MURRAY AVE UNIVERSITY OF PGH BOOKSTORE 4000 5TH AVE DANA’S BAKERY 720 N. HOMEWOOD AVE DA STORE 606 & 1/2 N. HOMEWOOD AVE BONUS TIRE SERVICE 4349 VERONA RD KANDY CAFE 4291 VERONA RD GIANT EAGLE SHADYSIDE 550 CENTRE AVE MARATHON GAS 4010 PENN AVE STANTON NEGLEY DRUG 804 N. NEGLEY AVE RON’S CORNER DRUG MT. CARMEL RD CENTRAL AREA: GET GO #64

4924 BAUM BLVD SCHWARTZ MARKET 1901 5TH AVE SMOKER FRIENDLY 906 5TH AVE HILL DISTRICT: WONG’S MARKET 2170 CENTRE AVE ANN’S MARKET 2316 WEBSTER AVE A-PLUS MINI MART 2350 CENTRE AVE UJAMMA BOUTIQUE 1901 CENTRE AVE K LEROY IRVIS TOWERS 715 MERCER ST SHOP & SAVE SUPERMARKET 1850 CENTRE AVE ABE’S MARKET 1860 CENTRE AVE WYLIE TOBACCO 2152 WYLIE AVE DOWNTOWN: KWIK-E-MART 212-10TH ST 7-11 #167 643 LIBERTY AVE 7-11 #165 SIXTH & PENN AVE 7-11 #170 429 WOOD ST ESTER’S SNAX FEDERAL BUILDING, 2ND FL SMITHFIELD NEWS 115 SMITHFIELD ST FABER COE & GREGG 500 GRANT ST FABER COE & GREGG FIFTH AVE. PLACE FABER COE & GREGG 600 GRANT ST NIELSEN’S STORES #09 301 GRANT ST— ONE OXFORD CENTER NIELSEN’S STORES #13 437 SEVENTH AVE— KOPPERS BUILDING 9TH & PENN NEWS-NUMBERS 136 PENN AVE EXTRA EXTRA NEWS 413 SEVENTH AVE NEAL NEWS 400 CHERRY WAY CVS PHARMACY #4120 610-612 WOOD ST C&C NEWS 2 PPG PLACE NEWSTAND SIXTH & WOOD ONE STOP 300 SIXTH & WOOD EDDIE’S SNACKS 262 5TH AVE BIG DADDY 465 FORBES AVE 711 SMITHFIELD 420 SMITHFIELD ST NORTHERN AREA: W. N. GROCERY 1018 NORTH AVE. NORTH SIDE BEER & BEVERAGE 1304 FEDERAL ST ALLEGHENY GIFT SHOP— AGH HOSPITAL 320 EAST NORTH AVE GIANT EAGLE #652 318 CEDAR AVE 7-11 #158 1001 WESTERN AVE RICHEY’S BARBER SHOP 1207 N. FRANKLIN ST QUIK-IT 820 PENNSYLVANIA AVE RITE AID #3459 802 PENNSYLVANIA AVE MARSHALL SHELL 1500 SPRING GARDEN AVE SWINKO’S MARKET 2535 PERYSVILLE AVE MERCY STREET EXPRESS 6 MERCY ST HARV’S EXXON 2501 BRIGHTON RD QUICK SCHWARTZ 3235 BRIGHTON RD HANINI MARKET 3245 BRIGHTON RD

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PEOPLE

JUNE 22-28, 2016

NEW PITTSBURGH COURIER

Local students compete in Dancing Classrooms ‘Colors of the Rainbow’ Ten teams of fifth-grade students from participating Pittsburgh Public Schools (Banksville, Brookline, Carmalt, Colfax, Phillips, West Liberty, Westwood, and Whittier, Environmental Charter School at Frick Park, and Sister Thea Bowman Catholic Academy, will compete in

the Dancing Classrooms Pittsburgh “Colors of the Rainbow” Spring 2016 Final Team Match, the final leg of a 20-session journey through the world of ballroom dance. The students, who trained in ballroom dance for 10 weeks during the spring 2016 semester, will perform the Merengue,

Foxtrot, Rumba, Tango, and Swing in front of an enthusiastic panel of judges, family, and friends.

Dancing Classrooms Pittsburgh, part of Pittsburgh Mercy and Trinity Health, serving in the tradition of the Sisters of Mercy, first introduced Dancing Classrooms Pittsburgh to 300 fifth-grade

children in six Pittsburgh Public Schools in September 2009. Since then, approximately 4,000 children in the Pittsburgh Public Schools, Extra Mile Education Foundation schools in the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh, and local charter schools have benefited from the renowned, inter-

national arts-in-education program. Students who participate in the 10-week curriculum learn not only the fundamentals of ballroom dance, but also valuable life lessons like team building, cooperation, self-confidence, problem solving, creative thinking, resiliency in the face of challenge, profession-

al courtesy, and appreciation for other cultures.

Teachers and principals in participating schools have noted decreases in behavior management problems, increases in parental involvement, and positive impacts on academics, school climate, and in the way the students treat one another.

TANGO ANYONE?—Caden Harper and Jaden Delarosa dance the Tango. (Photos by J. L. Martello)

THE FOXTROT—Royce Brown and Nyah Jetter dance the Foxtrot.

THE RUMBA—Hamale Jackson and Tessa Stanley dance the Rumba.

HAVING FUN—Mathews Adams and Amber Taylor tear up the stage.

THE SWING—Rebecca Agbeve dances the swing

ALL SMILES—Bailey Smith and Krista Hopkins are all smiles during the dance competition.