C P M C P M G Aug 03 2013 10:25:42:324PM Post-Gazette G A-1 Y K Y K

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As the holy month of Ramadan draws to a close, some Muslim Iran’s converts in Pittsburgh share stories about the faith they’ve embraced

From left, Orenda cleric How they came Dadkhah of West Mifflin, Lauren Simmons of backs to choose Islam Beechview, Julie Webb of By Marina Bolotnikova a convert to Islam, online in Squirrel Hill, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette 1996, she had been questioning Tara Bailey her Catholic faith but had no of Sheridan new Philip and Sherry Snow interest in learning about his and Kathleen grew up Catholic in predomi- religion. Sciortino of nantly Christian towns on “I went through the whole Crafton stand opposite sides of the country. gamut of stereotypes that I’d inside the Today, Philip and Sherry go by heard about Muslims,” she said. Islamic Center leader Ibrahim and Safiye, live on the But as she learned about Islam North Side with their four chil- from Philip, she realized not just of Pittsburgh dren — and are devout adher- that her preconceptions about in Oakland on President-elect ents to Islam. Wednesday will take office today When Sherry met Philip, SEE converts, PAGE A-8 Post-Gazette after surprise win

By Jason Rezaian The Washington Post a great day for a best man Housing TEHRAN, Iran — Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, officially endorsed authority Hassan Rouhani as president in a ceremony Saturday on the eve of his swearing-in by parlia- ment, acknowledging the chal- turns to lenges that he faces and asking the country to support him. Mr. Rouhani, the moderate cleric who won an unexpected consultant victory in the June 14 election and will begin his official duties Agency pays millions today after being inaugurated as the Islamic Republic’s 11th presi- for outside expertise dent, is making clear that he is determined to restore his coun- try’s image at home and abroad. By Rich Lord “We will take new steps to Pittsburgh Post-Gazette increase the dignity of our peo- ple in its international relations, The man who came to Pitts- through securing our national burgh City Council last month interests and eliminating the and secured $12 million to build unjust sanctions,” Mr. Rouhani homes in hardscrabble Larimer said in an address during Sat- introduced himself as “Nathan- urday’s ceremony, referring to iel Boe, Housing Authority of measures imposed by the inter- the City of Pittsburgh.” national community over Iran’s Mr. Boe, though, is not an nuclear activities. authority employee, but one of He added that his administra- eight vice presidents of Tampa- tion’s “approach will be to save based CVR Associates Inc. Last the economy and to have con- year that firm billed the author- structive interaction with the ity $1.25 million for its services. rest of the world.” Of that, Mr. Boe’s charges Dozens of foreign dignitar- totaled $404,000 — more than double the $168,000 salary of SEE iran, PAGE A-4 authority executive director Caster Binion. Mr. Boe and his firm are the behind-the-scenes masterminds of a public housing rebuilding boom that has touched Garfield, Oil, gas Brookline, the Hill District and other neighborhoods. They also epitomize the reliance, by an companies agency tasked Tony Tye/Post-Gazette with shelter- Inside ing the poor, scrutinized Law firms Sean Stevenson carries his son Logan, 2, after his wedding ceremony in his backyard in Jeannette. Logan, who on richly paid has a rare genetic disorder, served as best man. consultants. and their over labor Mr. Bin- “critical ion called mass” of Mr. Boe’s bill experience By Anya Litvak “maybe the and talent Pittsburgh Post-Gazette average when are among Terminally ill son helps you bring con- the housing It’s amazing how many times sultants in,” authority’s Rodney Bean has heard the adding that consultants. phrase “but everyone’s doing it” CVR has “the Page A-3 from oil and gas companies, big know-how to and small. work with developers and get “Everyone” hires independent couple walk down aisle projects done.” contractors instead of employ- CVR’s own invoices, though, ees. “Everyone” pays a flat day suggest that its work has been rate instead of a salary or hourly a subject of recent interest from wage. Jeannette pair moved wedding up so boy could share in ceremony the U.S. Department of Hous- When these companies get a ing and Urban Development’s notice from the U.S. Department By Ann Belser ding gown that had been Office of the Inspector General. of Labor, they call Mr. Bean, an Pittsburgh Post-Gazette worn by her sister-in-law, And the firm’s 2009 hiring of an attorney with Steptoe & Johnson handed Logan to Mr. Ste- authority employee — who now PLLC, and he tells them, in the The first time Sean venson, who in turn passed bills several times what she was most respectful way: Yes, you’re Stevenson saw Christine the toddler to his own paid as an employee — raises the right. Everyone is doing it. And Swidorsky, he looked into mother, Debbie Stevenson, question of whether outsourcing they’re doing it wrong. her eyes and saw his soul- for the ceremony. much of the city’s public housing Mr. Bean is getting more and mate. Logan’s older sister, Isa- modernization and development more calls these days, as the Saturday, six years later, bella Johns, 13, had walked work has proved economical. Labor Department’s Marcellus those eyes were behind a down the aisle holding the Several people who have dealt Shale Initiative enters its second wedding veil as she car- hand of the couple’s young- with the authority for years year. ried their terminally ill est child, Savannah, who were surprised to learn about The agency began targeting oil son down the aisle toward is almost 2, and another CVR’s role and Mr. Boe’s bill. and gas firms because the indus- Mr. Stevenson and a public of Ms. Swidorsky’s brides- “That’s a big number for try has shown a pattern of labor commitment to spend their maids, her sister, Carey a public agency to be pay- law violations, according to John life together. Swidorsky. ing someone,” city Controller DuMont, district director for the The couple were mar- Logan, alert as he came Michael Lamb said. “What’s the department’s Pittsburgh office. ried in their Jeannette into the outdoor chapel, fell expertise that he’s bringing to The firms tend to improperly backyard after deciding asleep with his head on his the table that would cause you label their workers as indepen- to move the wedding up a grandmother’s shoulder as to pay that kind of a premium? dent contractors, which allows year so that their little boy, she rocked him while his And the truth is, I don’t know the companies to avoid paying Logan, 2, would be alive to parents repeated their wed- that,” because the authority has overtime. They also pay employ- share in the ceremony. After the ceremony in their Jeannette backyard, Sean ding vows. resisted his efforts to audit its Guests sobbed as the Stevenson hands over his son, Logan, 2, to his wife, SEE labor, PAGE A-2 young mother, in a wed- Christine Swidorsky, as wedding photos are taken. SEE logan, PAGE A-11 SEE authority, PAGE A-3

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PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTE  SundaY, auGuSt 4, 2013  WWW.POST-GAZETTE.COM A-3 Law firms among authority’s consultants

Director says experts The U.S. Department of Hous- & Grigsby’s Affordable Housing the firm when city Controller solely to defend them in OIG work side by side with me … to ing and Urban Development Group, was the authority’s in- Michael Lamb sought to audit its investigations,” Mr. Syme said. provide concrete decision-mak- bring ‘critical mass’ oversees housing authorities and house general counsel in the late contracting procedures and its “We’re proud that we can do [the ing advice.” has made an issue of consultants’ 1990s. In 2003, federal auditors relationships with several non- authority’s legal work] from Pitts- He confirmed that Ms. Wesley of experience, talent roles in other cities. faulted his bills to the author- profit entities. burgh and not have to bring in was at the table for the authority’s For instance, HUD inspectors ity. Mr. Syme said the dispute “It’s news to me that they’d lawyers from Washington who ill-fated attempt to hire off-duty found in 2011 that the Philadel- stemmed from changes in the hired a lawyer” to fend off his don’t bring the money back to constables to bolster security. A By Rich Lord phia Housing Authority from way the authority handled legal inquiries, Mr. Lamb said, add- Pittsburgh.” year ago, the authority canceled Pittsburgh Post-Gazette early 2007 through late 2010 spent bills. ing that when he asked to see The authority turns to Florida a contract under which Carnegie- an average of $8.9 million a year Last year, the authority paid contracts, the authority “shut us for expertise in safety, which is a based Victory Security Agency When the Housing Author- on outside lawyers, or roughly 2.4 Cohen & Grigsby $308,978 — right down from the very begin- perennial issue in public housing had provided constables, because ity of the City of Pittsburgh was percent of its budget. HUD found including $88,519 for Mr. Syme’s ning.” communities. the firm could not muster enough questioned by the city control- that millions of dollars in legal work at $335 an hour. Since the The authority argued that The authority has a of them to cover the housing com- ler, a television station and fed- spending seemed unnecessary — beginning of 2012, 28 of Cohen & since it is funded by the federal $100,000-a-year contract with plexes. eral auditors in the past year, it including more than $1 million Grigsby’s professionals have done government, and not the city, it criminologist Denise R. Wesley, Another consultant, Washing- turned to Michael Syme. spent fighting HUD audits — and work for the authority, according need not answer to the controller. of Fort Myers, Fla. Her April bill ton, D.C.-based Human Capital Mr. Syme, an attorney with demanded repayment. to the firm’s invoices. Cohen & Grigsby also got to the authority indicated that she Initiatives LLC, has reviewed the Downtown-based Cohen & In February, Pittsburgh’s Mr. Syme said that he called in the call last year when WTAE- also worked on Section 8 voucher efficiency of all of the authority’s Grigsby, is one of a handful of top housing authority board voted to those colleagues because the firm TV sought to use the state open problems, efforts to help residents departments — except the mod- consultants to the authority, who retain 10 law firms, chosen based handles the authority’s pension records law to explore the author- to become self-sufficient, audits ernization and development unit, weigh in on key decisions involv- on their qualifications. The board law issues and redevelopment ity’s relationship with a nonprofit and flow charts. which is run by consulting firm ing redevelopment, security and authorized paying the firms a financing. The complex financ- development arm called Allies & All of Ms. Wesley’s bills said CVR Associates. (See accompa- the agency’s internal structure. maximum total of $3.5 million ing packages underlying the Ross Management and Develop- that she was charging for just a nying story.) HCI’s public hous- Authority executive director over three years, amounting to authority’s reconstruction efforts ment Corp. portion of the time she spent on ing experts billed $70 to $200 Caster Binion said he prefers just under 1 percent of the author- require help from attorneys with In January, the authority the authority’s business. From on a contract worth as much as to keep work in-house but can’t ity’s budget. backgrounds in real estate, public called on Mr. Syme to handle an January 2012 through May 2013, $195,000 to produce a set of as-yet- afford to hire all of the special- Pittsburgh’s housing author- housing and tax law, he said. inquiry from HUD’s Office of the Ms. Wesley billed the authority undisclosed recommendations ists needed to handle the com- ity expects to spend $917,000 “Normally,” he said, “we will Inspector General, which sought for 885 hours of her time at $150 that Mr. Binion aims to imple- plex work of revamping the city’s with Cohen & Grigsby over three not have more than four or five information about its develop- an hour, and her invoices claimed ment by Jan. 1. public housing stock. He said he years, according to a breakdown people touching any particular ment and modernization con- that she provided 685 hours of views consultants as “multipli- that Mr. Binion showed to the matter.” tracts. unbilled time. Rich Lord: rlord@post-gazette. ers” who bring a “critical mass” Post-Gazette. Cohen & Grigsby’s bills show “We have represented, I think, “She’s a worker,” Mr. Binion com, 412-263-1542 or Twitter @ of experience and talent. Mr. Syme, the head of Cohen that the authority called on five or six housing authorities said. “I want somebody who will richelord

Valerie Lauw is the elected president of the tenant council at Northview Heights, the housing authority’s largest community at about 500 families. They await renovation of a dilapidated playground and replacement of outmoded kitchens — the kind of work that would be coordinated by CVR. Says Ms. Lauw, “I think it needs to be explained. If he’s getting that kind of money, we should see results.” Housing authority pays millions for consultants authority, FROM PAGE A-1 Mr. Boe billed the authority for an employee. Coming Monday about 2,400 hours of work — 48 Ms. Lee was an authority prop- contracts. hours a week, assuming two erty manager from 2007 to late Maintenance problems “I think it needs to be weeks of vacation. His hourly rate 2009, earning around $45,000 a in the housing authority’s explained,” said Valerie Lauw, was increased mid-year to $187. year, plus benefits worth more communities. the elected president of the “If I had a chief development than one-third of that amount, tenant council at Northview officer [on staff], that would prob- according to Mr. Binion. among other things, “coordinat- Heights, the authority’s largest ably run me maybe about $150,000 During 2009, CVR had a job ing OIG audit related to Dev/Mod community at about 500 fami- plus benefits,” Mr. Binion said. opening for a project manager consulting contracts,” according lies. They await renovation of CVR’s bills, he said, amount to and advertised for applications. to the firm’s bills. OIG is HUD’s a dilapidated playground and just 1.7 percent of the authority’s Mr. Boe said he decided “that Office of the Inspector General, replacement of outmoded kitch- capital spending. Its total budget Terri Lee would fit into the CVR and dev/mod means develop- ens — the kind of work that for operations and capital work model.” Her employment with ment and modernization. would be coordinated by CVR. this year is $155 million. the authority ended in November The next day CVR held a con- (The Post-Gazette will explore Mr. Boe said Pittsburgh is his 2009, and her involvement with ference call with Mr. Binion and the authority’s struggle to main- only client, though Ms. Vargas CVR began within days. the authority’s “executive team” tain its aging buildings in an and others at CVR sometimes ask Ms. Lee, who is African-Amer- and another “conference call article on Monday.) for his advice on other authorities’ ican, became a CVR subcontrac- with Terri on OIG audit involv- “If he’s getting that kind of challenges, and he does a small tor, helping to satisfy an author- ing her projects involved in liti- money,” Ms. Lauw said, “we amount of outside legal work. ity guideline that minority- and gation,” according to its invoices. should see results.” “If he finds time for other cli- Nate Boe, left, vice president of Tampa, Fla.-based CVR women-owned businesses should It decided to call in another con- ents, he’s Superman,” Mr. Binion Associates Inc., a consultant to the Pittsburgh Housing get a share of major contracts. sultant, attorney Michael Syme Paying their way? said. Authority, billed the city $404,000 for his time last year — Last year, the authority paid of the Downtown firm Cohen Mr. Boe argued that the author- Mr. Boe oversees three other more than double the $168,000 made by authority executive CVR just more than $201,000 & Grigsby. (See accompanying ity is seeing results, thanks in CVR employees and two subcon- director Caster Binion, right. In 2012, the authority paid CVR for Ms. Lee’s work, according story.) part to his background. tractors and also manages six $1.25 million for its services. Mr. Boe points to the authority’s to CVR’s bills. CVR billed the Mr. Binion and Mr. Boe said A native of Liberia in West authority staff members paid sep- average level of change orders on construction projects, which authority $87.50 an hour for her they weren’t sure what HUD’s Africa, he got his law degree from arately by the agency. All of them has been below 5 percent since CVR took over, versus 20 time through June and $112.75 an inspectors were looking for. University of Iowa and cut his work in Downtown office space percent before. In a typical year when the authority is engaging hour from July on. Mr. Binion said he thought teeth as an attorney with the city rented by the authority. in $50 million worth of capital investment, that translates into As justification for the charges, the HUD inquiry was likely part of Chicago and then its housing “I had no idea [Mr. Boe] didn’t savings of around $3 million — more than double CVR’s bill. Mr. Boe pointed to Ms. Lee’s man- of an audit of authorities nation- authority. In 1998, he joined CVR, work for the housing authority,” “We have paid our own way,” Mr. Boe said, “and we saved the agement of the reconstruction of ally or regionally. Mr. Boe said three years after it was founded by said Miles Byrne, development housing authority millions of dollars.” Mazza Pavilion in Brookline, a it may have been part of a “desk fellow Chicago Housing Authority director for Boston-based Beacon/ 30-apartment senior citizen high- audit” of authority paperwork, alum Ana Vargas. Corcoran Jennison, which, since rise that was closed in 2008 due to adding that he and his firm Though CVR was young, it 1996, has converted the author- mold contamination. “haven’t heard anything since got the job of fixing the troubled ity’s troubled Allequippa Terrace ing Addison Terrace. CVR is coor- Mr. Boe said, “and we saved the Mazza Pavilion cost the author- that time” from HUD. Puerto Rico Housing Authority. in the Hill District into mixed- dinating a raft of consultants who housing authority millions of dol- ity $7.2 million, including change HUD’s inspectors based in After Mr. Boe finished reforming income Oak Hill. Mr. Byrne are trying to revamp public and lars.” orders that fell just shy of 10 per- Philadelphia are scrutiniz- the island agency’s procurement added that Mr. Boe seemed to be private housing in Larimer. cent of the final figure. That rela- ing public housing authorities’ policies, Pittsburgh called. an independent voice in author- Mr. Boe said the authority’s Same person, triple cost tively high level of change orders spending on legal services and In 2000, the Housing Author- ity decision-making, arguing for average level of change orders on Mr. Binion’s rationale for came despite repeated fights with lobbying, according to a Dec. ity of the City of Pittsburgh was quality mixed-income housing in construction projects has been using consultants: “Sometimes the job’s construction contractor, 6, 2012, letter from a regional struggling to spend capital funds the Hill District even when past below 5 percent since CVR took bringing expertise in to assist you Homestead-based Franjo Con- inspector to Mr. Binion which properly. Costs on its construc- leaders were inclined to pull the over, versus 20 percent before. In a with these things will save time, struction Corp. the authority provided to the tion contracts typically inflated plug on parts of the Oak Hill plan. typical year when the authority is money and energy, and bring In 2011, Franjo took the author- Post-Gazette. by more than 20 percent due to In recent years, the CVR-led engaging in $50 million worth of innovation.” ity to arbitration, saying it needed According to the letter, HUD change orders — contractors’ crew has handled the complete capital investment, that translates Terri Lee, though, is a CVR more money to cover unfore- asked the authority for data requests for more money to cover reconstruction of the 225-unit into savings of around $3 million subcontractor who now costs the seen problems with deteriorated reflecting five years’ worth of unforeseen problems. It faced crit- Garfield Commons and launched — more than double CVR’s bill. authority several times what she wooden studs, damaged concrete contracts, payments made pursu- icisms from its HUD overseers. A a redo of the Hill District’s sprawl- “We have paid our own way,” did four years ago, when she was floor slabs and a 17-day delay in ant to contracts, liability insur- consultant recommended that it structural steel work, among ance premiums, legal settle- consider outsourcing its develop- other problems. ments and employee severance ment and modernization efforts. Franjo wanted its pay to be payments. HUD also requested The authority invited propos- increased by a total of $336,215, breakdowns of all payments to als from firms nationwide, inter- the authority said it was due law firms, consultants and non- viewed two firms in early 2001, $119,311, and arbitrators awarded profit organizations. and settled on CVR. the contractor a boost of $176,186. The inspectors also sought The plan was “for CVR to come In March, Franjo sued the disclosures of lobbying activities in and help the housing authority authority, claiming that although and audit reports. to achieve its goals” by retraining Mazza Pavilion was finished in The HUD inspectors’ web- its in-house staff, said Mr. Binion, September 2011, the agency with- site does not show any recent, who joined the authority in 2006 held $35,375 in payments. The completed audit related to Pitts- as its operations director and got authority put law firm Tucker burgh’s authority. A spokes- the top job nearly a year ago. Arensberg on the case and argued woman for the inspectors said CVR impressed the authority that Franjo didn’t properly install she could not comment on the enough that it opted not to rebuild the windows, but the arbitrator existence of any investigation. its in-house staff. “The board awarded the contractor $25,000. Mr. Boe said he was confident decided that CVR would run the The authority has appealed. that any HUD review of CVR’s Modernization Department and Frank Leonella, president of work would come out fine. HUD the Development Department,” Franjo, said that because he had scrutinized the authority’s Mr. Binion said. so much trouble getting paid, he administration of $27 million in Mr. Boe bought an inexpen- won’t put in bids on future author- federal stimulus grants, he said, sive Lower Hill condominium in ity projects. looking for “any little thing” and 2003 and said he spends most of “Terri Lee is a nice woman,” found no problems. his time in Pittsburgh, return- Mr. Leonella said, but was “over HUD, he added, is “very per- ing to Chicago for a few days each her head. If I would debate her, sistent. … They don’t want [the month. Bill Wade/Post-Gazette she would push me to Nate Boe.” authority] to relapse to what it In 2011, the authority paid CVR was prior.” $1.17 million, including $395,000 Elmore Street in Addison Terrace in the Hill District is blocked off as the Housing ‘Any little thing’ for roughly 2,550 hours of Mr. Authority tears down the former housing project. The site will be redeveloped as a On Jan. 1, CVR billed the Rich Lord: rlord@post-gazette. Boe’s time, at $155 an hour. Last residential neighborhood by KDK Enterprises. This is one of many projects throughout authority for three hours of com, 412-263-1542 or Twitter @ year, according to CVR’s invoices, the city that was handled by CVR. work done in Chicago involving, richelord BARIATRICS Lowest GMC We ight Loss & We ight Management Prices. PERIOD. SUMMER WEIGHT LOSS THE PERFECT LOOK, COLOR & SIZE FOR ANY ROOM! 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$1.00 MONDAY, AUGUST 5, 2013 VOL. 87, NO. 5 8/5/13  final . U.S. Program extends High-crime patrols end highlights tales about mission Saturation police efforts earn praise but run out of funds closures good dogs By Elizabeth Bloom Terror threat shuts Pittsburgh Post-Gazette diplomatic posts First Sgt. Brian Coutch occasionally has nightmares and flashbacks. A 22-year By Alicia A. Caldwell veteran of the Army, Sgt. Associated Press Coutch, who lives in New Kensington, served as an WASHINGTON — U.S. engineer specializing in diplomatic posts in 19 cities improvised explosive devices in the Muslim world will be in a career that included closed at least through the four tours in Iraq and one end of this week, the State in Afghanistan. His return Department said Sunday, home was not easy. Due citing “an abundance of cau- to physical injuries, he tion.” struggled with his ability to State Department spokes- balance and pick things up. woman Jen Psaki said the He also found himself coping decision to keep the embas- with anxiety and high blood sies and consulates closed is pressure. “not an indication of a new “I didn’t even go out of my threat.” house. If I did go shopping, it She said the continued was at 2 or 3 in the morning,” closures are “merely an indi- he said. cation of our commitment Then he met Slate. to exercise caution and take Slate, a Labrador, is a appropriate steps to protect service dog, therapy dog and our employees, including barrier dog with Susque- local employees, and visitors hanna Service Dogs. For to our facilities.” almost two years, he has Diplomatic facilities will helped Sgt. Coutch overcome remain closed in Egypt, Jor- the difficulties induced by dan, Libya, Yemen, Saudi Michael Henninger/Post-Gazette photos his war experiences, whether Arabia and Kuwait, among comforting him while he other countries, through Allegheny County sheriff’s deputy Sgt. Richard Manning, left, returns to his vehicle after speaking with his fellow watches fireworks or helping Saturday. The State Depart- deputies at a traffic stop at the end of a saturation patrol. him with routine physical ment announcement Sunday tasks. added closures of four Afri- On Sunday, both Sgt. can sites, in Madagascar, By Molly Born While they prepared for Burundi, Rwanda and Mau- Pittsburgh Post-Gazette the shift inside the McK- SEE dogs, PAGE A-10 ritius. eesport police station, detec- The U.S. has also decided On a warm evening in tives from that department to reopen some posts Mon- June, Allegheny County said McKeesport isn’t as sheriff’s deputies and McK- dangerous as its reputation SEE EmbassiEs, PAGE A-4 eesport police set out to make might suggest. their presence known. If that’s true, it wasn’t As the officers’ three-vehi- always like that. McKeesport cle caravan canvassed the and eight other suburbs were neighborhoods, crisscross- part of a monthslong focus in ing the streets until night- communities “overwhelmed fall, kids waved, some people by some of the crime that’s 1.8 million stared. being committed,” Allegheny In eight-hour stints, they County Sheriff William Mul- aimed to be seen, keep crime len said. across Pa. at bay and, as Sgt. Richard The sheriff’s office recently Manning from the sher- finished using a grant from Uma Simhan, 8, of Point iff’s office put it, “keep the the U.S. attorney’s office to feel cut bad guys from seeing each Project Safe Neighborhoods, Breeze is bent over other.” with funds from Pennsylva- backwards with kisses “That’s the whole point — nia Commission on Crime from Hank, a cadaver in food aid to flood the area and make A woman stands handcuffed after her arrest June 20 on and Delinquency. The award working dog with CAESAR, sure they aren’t waiting for an oustanding warrant by one of the Allegheny County for $18,000 went strictly to at the Heinz History By Kate Giammarise the next shooting to happen,” sheriff’s patrols. Center’s event on Sunday, Post-Gazette Harrisburg Bureau he said. SEE patrols, PAGE A-10 which featured and honored working, service HARRISBURG — Come and therapy dogs. November, almost 1.8 mil- lion Pennsylvanians who receive food stamps will get less money every month for their groceries. The cut is the result of the scheduled Nov. 1 expira- Meadowcroft site is flooded City housing authority tion of a temporary boost in food stamp funding paid for by the 2009 federal stimulus Jamie Badams struggles with scrutiny act. Removal of mud is and Michael Way, The decline in funds is painstaking work from Mercyhurst estimated to be about $29 University, excavate By Brittany Horn than repairing thousands of per household per month sediment introduced Pittsburgh Post-Gazette older housing units. for a family of three, or $36 By Michael A. Fuoco to the Meadowcroft “I can’t flush my toilet,” per household per month Pittsburgh Post-Gazette archaeological In a tiny courtyard in the Bedford Dwellings resident for a family of four, accord- site after a root Hill District’s Bedford Dwell- Debra Palmer said in a June ing to a study released last Meadowcroft Rockshelter in decomposed, creating ings, there are broken glass interview. “I had black sewage week from the Center on Washington County has been a channel for water bottles, used baby diapers and coming out of my toilets, my Budget and Policy Priorities, known the world over for 40 to enter after heavy drains threatening to over- sink, my bathtub, but [author- a think tank that analyzes years for archeological discov- rains in late July. f low. ity maintenance managers issues impacting low-income eries that have produced awe, Tenants of the Housing said], ‘It’s not an emergency.’ ” people. wonder and knowledge. Authority of the City of Pitts- She acknowledged that most Statewide, close to 1.8 But the most recent discovery Kelly Tunney/Post-Gazette burgh’s aging communities of the time the authority does million people — including there — this one by a security say poor maintenance and its job. 740,000 kids — are enrolled guard — that severe rain July inconsistent responsiveness to The authority’s efforts, in or receive benefits from 19 had partially flooded the site, Meadowcroft is the oldest site seven-member Mercyhurst Uni- complaints undermine qual- however, often are driven the program, now officially provoked distress, concern and of human habitation in North versity team in re-excavating ity of life. They also say the by annual inspections from called the Supplemental a quick response to repair the America. the National Historic Landmark authority appears to spend the U.S. Department of Hous- damage. There is symmetry in the fact money on transforming a SEE food, PAGE A-2 Many scholars believe that the anthropologist leading a SEE flood, PAGE A-2 handful of communities rather SEE Housing, PAGE A-3

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C P M C P M G G Y K Y K C P M C P M G Aug 04 2013 11:08:45:775PM Post-Gazette G A-3 Y K Y K

PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTE  MondaY, auGust 5, 2013  WWW.POST-GAZETTE.COM A-3

100 Tenants call for public housing improvements

Housing, FROM PAGE A-1 for low-income housing. 80 Average inspection Measuring progress ing and Urban Development. 80 76 scores, 2006-2012 Inspection scores for the biggest Inspection scores trending downward Mr. Weber said the author- 80 Of the six largest communities run by the Housing Authority of 60 authority-managed complexes 60 59 56 58 ity is trying to figure out how 60 have trended downward in the City of Pittsburgh, five scored lower on federal inspections to measure progress toward its Where it’s recent years, except for a slight in late 2011 and 2012 than they did in 2006. guarantee of high quality living 40 uptick last year. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for low-income residents. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette inspectors score communities on a 0 to 100 scale, awarding He said the authority tradi- always 70 on Sunday looked at the author- tionally relies on crime statis- 40 points for the condition of the overall sites, building exteriors, 20 ity’s $1.2 million-a-year pay- tics to measure its quality of life, building systems, common areas and housing units. ments for six consultants from a but like many numbers, “crime Tampa-based management firm; The average score among the six communities declined from 0 statistics can be misleading.” hockey 20 2006 LATE 2007 LATE 2009 EARLY LATE 2011 2006 2007 602009 2011 '2012" its $100,000-a-year contract with 76 to 58, trending steadily downward until a modest upward OR EARLY OR EARLY 2011 AND “We’d love to be able to look at a Fort Myers, Fla., security con- bump last year. 2008 2010 2012 school, employment and income sultant; and its $1 million-plus numbers,” Mr. Weber said. time. annual legal expenditures. PROJECTED INSPECTIONS Mr. Weber said the author- Much of that spending is FAMILIES, LATE 2007 LATE 2009 LATE 2011 ity is looking to better measure geared toward transforming COMMUNITY END OF 2013 2006 OR EARLY 2008 OR EARLY 2010 EARLY 2011 AND 2012 quality of life through a partner- 50 housing of last resort into a cata- ship with the University of Pitts- 06 07 09-10 2011 11-12 Addison Terrace, Hill District 200 69 51 39 46 54 lyst for mixed-income develop- burgh’s Center for Metropolitan ment. Although the authority — Allegheny Dwellings, Fineview 255 81 63 75 65 44 Studies. Changes in staffing the city’s largest landlord — is Arlington Heights, Arlington 135 73 55 84 47 81 have pushed back the comple- 80 76 trying to find innovative ways to Bedford Dwellings, Hill District 385 70 60 45 57 53 tion of a report by the center. Average inspection measure its progress, the yard- Although the center’s report scores, 2006-2012 sticks available now suggest that Northview Heights, North Side 505 68 59 49 50 52 will not be made public, it will 70 the spending hasn’t translated Pressley High Rise, East Allegheny 204 96 74 62 73 61 be used internally to better iden- into improvements in the large, Average 76 60 59 56 58 tify where the authority could long-standing complexes that improve, he said. 59 house some 2,000 families. Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Post-Gazette 60 58 “I’ve been struggling, trying Brittany Horn: bhorn@post- 60 to get [inspection scores] up all gazette.com or 412-263-1280. Rich 56 the time, spending money to Lord contributed. do that,” said authority execu- Ms. Davis said the three oversight. “It’s hard to calculate wait 50 2006 LATE 2007 LATE 2009 EARLY LATE 2011 tive director Caster Binion. “To maintenance men in charge of Scores for the authority’s six times, so we don’t want to pro- OR EARLY OR EARLY 2011 AND maintain this old housing that the entire housing complex of biggest communities averaged vide false hope,” said David 2008 2010 2012 was built in the 1940s takes a 272 units aren’t enough to clean 76 in 2006 but dropped to 58 in Weber, authority government ������ ���� ��� 80 substantial amount of money.” up the trash. She said she waited the latest round of inspections. relations and special services He cited that as one of the 11 years to get a new bathtub. Despite complaints, there is officer. “It’s a long wait.” reasons why the authority has Her windows don’t lock, even unmet demand for the author- The current list includes 14     70 focused efforts on replacing old, though they’ve been replaced ity’s offerings, as it has replaced properties that have closed wait- impoverished complexes. four times. sprawling, Depression-era ing lists for particular types of That’s not enough, said Val- “They figure this is what I complexes with smaller, mixed- apartments, but the exact wait- erie Lauw, the resident council can afford,” she said. income communities. There are ing list numbers are not avail- 80 76 60 president of 500-family North- Tenant complaints at author- fewer units for low-income resi- able as they change frequently, Average inspection view Heights, who circulated a ity properties citywide range dents, most of whom pay rents of authority spokesman Chuck scores, 2006-2012 video on YouTube documenting from leaky plumbing and col- 30 percent of their earnings. Rohrer said. ������� ������������ � raw sewage and open work zones lapsing ceilings to insect infes- In April, the housing author- Pittsburgh isn’t abnormal in �������� ���� �������� 70 50 06 07 09-10 2011 11-12 in her community. “It appears tations and backed-up sewage. ity closed various waiting lists closing some of its waiting lists. ���� ��� that other housing communities Scores for HUD’s inspections for some of its public housing Cities such as San Francisco and ����� ������� ������ �������� ���������� ��� ������ ��� �������� ������� �� ��� 59 are receiving top-dollar fund- of public housing units, con- units, citing the yearslong wait Cleveland both have closed wait- 60 ��� ���� ������ ������ ����������� � ��� 58 ing while we’re being pieced ducted roughly once a year, can times for some types of units. ing lists due to the high demand 60 together,” she said. range from 0 to 100. Inspection ������������������� ����� ����� �������� 56 Low scores, high demand scores are based on the condi- 50 tion of units inside and out, with 2006 LATE 2007 LATE 2009 EARLY LATE 2011 “This is the projects,” said points docked for broken smoke OR EARLY OR EARLY 2011 AND Cinnamon Davis, a resident of alarms, peeling paint and other 2008 2010 2012 Allegheny Dwellings in Finev- circumstances deemed unsatis- iew for the last 11 years. “It used factory. If an authority’s prop- Do You Hear, But Not Understand? to be beautiful. The grass was erties get persistently low num- cut. There wasn’t all this trash. bers, HUD can declare it to be Now look at it.” “troubled” and demand greater You May Have Hearing Loss.... Damage in kitchen Or Maybe It Is Just WAX.... Do You Hear,We Ca Butn Fi Notnd Understand?Out! from fire, smoke You May Have Hearing Loss.... outlives resident Or Maybe It Is Just WAX....

By Rich Lord the charred door. We Can Find Out! Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Housing authority mainte- nance workers repainted the It was around Thanksgiv- smoke-damaged walls. ing when Leola Randolph had Sharon Randolph said she a kitchen fire in her tiny apart- called the authority’s mainte- Never put anything smaller than your elbow in your ear. ment in Arlington Heights, a nance office three times, and her community of about 135 families mother called twice, but staff did Even this X-X-LargeLarge cocottontton swab is totooo small to put in youryour ear. Your ears are actually self- run by the Housing Authority of not replace the range hood or the City of Pittsburgh. cabinets. The daughter said she cleaning! UsUsinging a cocottontton swab to clean yoyourur ear pushes wawaxx deeper into the ear canal and Despite her efforts and was worried that without the Never put anything smaller than your elbow in your ear. those of her daughter to get her range hood, her mother couldn’t can create a blockage. Wax blockage is one of the most cocommonmmon causes of hearing loss, and charred cupboards and a dis- see what she was cooking. She Evween ha thisve anX-X-LargeLarge easy andcocottontton painless swab wawis ay totooy too small check to yoyour putur ears.in youryo Weur ear.’ll use Yo ur a miniaturized ears are actually camera self- to do abled range hood replaced, Ms. said authority staff told her that cleaning! UsUsinging a cocottontton swab to clean yoyourur ear pushes wawaxx deeper into the ear canal and Randolph, who died in mid-July after she made a request, she a cocompletemplete inspection of yoyourur ear canal and ear drum to see if there’s a wawaxx blockage prob- at age 84, never saw the kitchen had to wait 20 days before call- can create a blockage. Wax blockage is one of the most cocommonmmon causes of hearing loss, and repaired — a result that the ing for a status report. welem. ha PlPleaseveease an easycall totoday andday painless to make waw an ayy appointmentto check yoyourur fofor ears.r yoyour urWe FREE’ll use Ear a miniaturized CaCanalnal InInspection!spection! camera to do authority’s director acknowl- Leola Randolph became edged was unacceptable. resigned to the situation. “They a cocompletemplete inspection of yoyourur ear canal and ear drum to see if there’s a wawaxx blockage prob- In an interview a month didn’t do it. I did it,” she said, lem. PlPleaseease call totodayday to make an appointment foforr yoyourur FREE Ear CaCanalnal InInspection!spection! before her death, Ms. Randolph referring to the fire damage. “So said, “I was back there ironing. now I’ll wait patiently until they FREE Ear CanalCanal InInspectionspection and I’m hearing the firetrucks, and give it to me.” I wondered whose place was on Told of the circumstances FREE Ear CanalCanal InInspectionspection and fire.” by the Post-Gazette, authority Then she saw smoke in her executive director Caster Binion Hearing Consultation This Week Only! kitchen and saw that grease in a ordered an inquiry. Hearing Consultation This Week Only! pan had ignited. She grabbed the Four days later, Michelle pan and rushed outside, possibly Jackson, authority chief com- saving the multi-unit building munity affairs officer, said that from more extensive damage, in someone “here didn’t do their her view. job adequately.” “The whole kitchen was “Disciplinary activity has Monday Thru Friday, August 5th - 9th smoked,” said Ms. Randolph’s taken place or will take place,” daughter, Sharon Randolph, she said, declining to provide Monday Thru Friday, August 5th - 9th 52, a cook at a university who details because the matter is a has lived in Arlington Heights personnel issue. “We are not an since the late 1960s. Like most agency that tolerates any type residents of public housing, she of behavior that is negative or pays 30 percent of her income in doesn’t reflect the best interests rent. of the authority and put the resi- As a result of the fire, the dents first.” As Seen range hood was ruined and flakes from one damaged cup- Rich Lord: rlord@post-gazette. board door often fell onto the com, 412-263-1542 or on Twitter on TV! stove. Sharon Randolph removed @richelord. As Seen Stay connected with the Post-Gazette on TV! Call Now 1-866-445-4938 Like us on Follow us on Facebook Twitter We are providers for most insurance companies. facebook.com/pittsburghpostgazette twitter.com/pittsburghpg We are a proud partner of the ONLY U.S. Owned and Operated Manufacturer. 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Local News Page FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2013 A-9

Duquesne mommy & mE Appeal disputes those city claims parking over death tickets of adjunct online By Moriah Balingit professor Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Today, if you believe you’ve By Bill Schackner unjustly received a ticket from Pittsburgh Post-Gazette the Pittsburgh Parking Author- ity, contesting it means schedul- An op-ed piece Wednesday ing a hearing and a potentially in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette hassle-filled trip Downtown to recounting the death of a long- the Pittsburgh Parking Court to time Duquesne University face a district judge. adjunct professor fueled online But on Oct. 1, the parking anger nationally over condi- authority will unveil a website tions facing low-paid temporary that will allow drivers to contest instructors but was criticized their tickets online and receive by the school as misleading and the judgments by email and in exploitative. the mail. The column involved Marga- David Onorato, executive ret Mary Vojtko, 83, who taught director of the authority, said the French at Duquesne University online appeals system came as a for 25 years before being let result of those who complained of go this spring. After she died the hassle of coming Downtown. Sept. 1, Daniel Kovalik, senior For those who live out of state, associate general counsel of contesting a ticket meant a costly the United Steelworkers, the Larry Roberts/Post-Gazette trip back to the Steel City. union currently in a fight to “They thought it was an incon- organize adjunct instructors at Moka, the mother gorilla at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, carries her baby Thursday after it was returned to her. venience to come Downtown. We Duquesne, wrote the piece. decided they were right.” Mr. Kovalik wrote of the Under the new system, those near-homeless woman’s battle who want to contest their tickets with cancer, of her struggles will fill out a form explaining as a semester-to-semester hire why they believe their citations earning as little as $10,000 a were unfairly issued. They’ll be year, and of her death following allowed to attach photos to sup- a heart attack not long after los- port their testimony, as well. ing her job with no severance or A district judge will review retirement benefits. Family ties the materials and a judgment Online, the column went will be emailed and sent in the viral, attracting more than mail three to four weeks later. 171,000 page views on the news- Mr. Onorato said there’s been paper’s website, 50,000-plus Gorilla, now 5 months old, reunited with pack at zoo an uptick in the number of peo- Facebook likes and almost 1,500 ple contesting tickets since the comments from readers across By Don Hopey of his father, Mrithi. ON THE WEB Ms. Giambro said the Pitts- authority rolled out new parking the U.S. and overseas. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Roseann Giambro, a keeper To watch the mother burgh zoo’s treatment and kiosks last year to replace the who does a lot of work with the and baby gorilla reunite feeding of the baby gorilla fol- meters for individual spaces. The The baby gorilla born in zoo’s gorillas, said more than at the Pittsburgh Zoo, lowed a protocol established kiosks require patrons to enter April at the Pittsburgh Zoo & 20 zookeepers, docents, vol- by the Columbus Zoo, which their license plate numbers, but “These individuals PPG Aquarium is back. unteers and staff fed the baby visit post-gazette.com. has hand-raised several baby if the number was incorrectly After zookeepers noticed gorilla by bottle and worked gorillas in a surrogate gorilla entered, the patron received a have expressed both his mother was having prob- hard to raise him with as little parenting program. citation. outrage and sadness lems nursing him in May, human imprint as possible. to enter the room, Ms. Giambro “We were lucky because at About six months ago, though, they removed him from her “We were nervous when we said, and they’ve been together the same time we were rais- the Parking Authority changed that Margaret Mary and the public exhibit, and gave him back to his mother,” without a problem ever since. ing our baby gorilla, the Cin- the system so that a patron who has been used in this began a 24-hour care and Ms. Giambro said. “We had “By last Thursday we saw cinnati Zoo was hand-raising transposed two characters on a bottle-feeding program that kept them separated by a him sitting in the lap of his a baby that was a little older license plate or simply omitted w ay.” lasted until last week, when [metal] mesh fence so their father, Mrithi,” Ms. Giambro than ours, and the Columbus one was not issued a ticket. That — John Plante, the as-yet-unnamed infant bond wasn’t broken and so she said. Zoo had one, too,” she said. led to a decline in the number of Duquesne University’s gorilla was reunited with his could touch and sniff him. The baby gorilla weighed 7 “Our advantage came from people who contested tickets. vice president for advancement mother and then his extended “I had him in an inside pounds when it was born and the fact that our little one was The new website was devel- five-member family. room and, after I got myself weighs 15 pounds now. He can part of a family group and oped by Duncan Solutions, which Now zoo visitors can see the out, we opened a door and she climb up and down things, they wanted him back.” runs many of the operations 5-month-old in the gorilla exer- came in. She picked him right still takes a vitamin-fortified Visitors can see the baby for Pittsburgh Parking Court. All of it placed the Catholic cise yard, riding on the back up and hasn’t put him down formula bottle four times a every day in the gorilla Because the authority already university of nearly 10,000 stu- of his mother, Moka, being much since.” day and has started to eat soft exhibit yard, except for 11 a.m. has a contract with the company, dents at the center of a mael- cradled by his grandmother, Two days later, the rest of foods like banana, kiwi and and 3 p.m., when he walks it cost the authority nothing addi- strom — undeservedly so, its Zakula, and sitting in the lap the gorilla family was allowed sweet potatoes. inside for his bottle feeding. tional to develop the site. leaders said Thursday. They took umbrage at the col- umn’s suggestion that the school did not help the woman. In fact, the campus community reached out to her on multiple occasions, inviting her at one point to live on campus, said John Plante, Senator demands city university vice president for advancement. “Despite the assertions made housing authority data in the op-ed piece, individuals across the University commu- nity attempted to help Margaret Mary through her last trying Grassley: Pittsburgh spending too much days. Spiritan priests, support staff, and University and McAn- By Rich Lord counsel Michael Syme, now an ulty College administrators Pittsburgh Post-Gazette attorney for Cohen & Grigsby. reached out to assist Margaret That firm is expected to receive Mary with the challenges she Decrying “steep price tags and $917,000 in authority funds over faced,” Mr. Plante wrote in a an increasing number of con- three years. letter Thursday to university tracts” at the Housing Author- Mr. Grassley wrote that he employees. ity of the City of Pittsburgh, U.S. was concerned that the firm Duquesne officials said Sen. Charles Grassley this week has helped the authority to fend they did not know how many asked federal overseers to pro- off inquiries from HUD’s office responses to the column they vide him with documentation of the inspector general and received. Mr. Plante said they of the agency’s salaries, consult- Pittsburgh Controller Michael were of two distinct types. ing arrangements and travel Lamb. The first, he said, included expenses. “That they would hire a law- “individuals who have been The Iowa Republican heav- yer to block [an audit] is cer- intimately involved and famil- ily cited the Pittsburgh Post- tainly of iar with the situation, and who Gazette’s Aug. 4 stories about c onc er n,” immediately recognized this the authority in his Wednesday said Mr. op-ed as a reckless attempt to Darrell Sapp/Post-Gazette letter, sent on Senate Judiciary Lamb. “It’s use Margaret Mary Vojtko’s Committee letterhead to Hous- the federal death as a means to further the Fire at Cool SpringS Firefighters apply foam Thursday morning on the ing and Urban Development government self-interest of Mr. Kovalik’s ruins of part of the Cool Springs Golf Center in Bethel Park. Investigators are trying Secretary Shaun Donovan. The that really external organization. to determine what caused the fire, which was contained in the garage. Bethel Park articles, which explored the spends the fire chief Dave Gerber said the owners were working on selling the property and authority’s use of consultants to money in SEE professor, PAGE A-12 that it closed on or about Sept. 15. Story, Page A-13. plan redevelopment efforts and [the author- handle legal and public safety ity], so the work, “appear to be yet another fact that example of insufficient HUD an elected controls on taxpayer dollars,” representa- Sen. Charles the senator wrote. tive of the Grassley, R-Iowa The federal government pays federal gov- — wants to roughly 90 percent of the cost e r n m e n t review the city’s Fox Chapel student surrenders knife, suspended of public housing, Mr. Grassley is asking HUD records wrote. “The Pittsburgh [hous- questions is By Mary Niederberger junior, had been using the knife ordered him to leave. David in addition to the revo- ing authority] appears to be probably a Pittsburgh Post-Gazette to clear a wooded area near his David and his parents were cation of his suspension. “The spending exorbitant amounts good thing.” Fox Chapel home before he instructed to meet with the issue becomes: Is honesty going for outside consultants, some of Mr. Grassley asked HUD to The attorney for a Fox Cha- went to the game. He wore the principal on Monday morn- to be punished and to what whom are former employees,” provide the most recent employ- pel Area High School student same pants to the game and as ing, and they were told that the extent?” Mr. DiLucente said. he wrote. ment contract for authority exec- suspended for 10 days for turn- he approached the gate, he real- school’s zero-tolerance policy The district issued a state- The letter quoted the Post- utive director Caster Binion, ing over a knife he says he acci- ized that he still had the knife required that David be sus- ment defending its actions: Gazette’s findings that consult- information on the compensa- dentally brought to a football in his pocket. pended for 10 days for bringing “When there is a weapon on ing firm CVR Associates billed tion packages and official travel game has asked the district to Mr. DiLucente said David a weapon onto school property, school property, we must fol- the authority $1.25 million last of all authority employees, lists vacate his suspension and erase presented the knife to a secu- Mr. DiLucente said. low the steps that are required year for coordinating the agen- of legal bills and professional it from his academic record. rity guard at the gate, explain- In addition, school policy by law. This is a responsibility cy’s extensive modernization services invoices paid by the Attorney Phil DiLucente ing that he had just found it in and state law call for students we have to our community, stu- and development efforts. The authority, names of nonprofit said his client, David Schaffner his pocket and knew he was not who bring weapons onto school dents and staff.” bills included $404,000 for the affiliates of the agency and other III, 16, should not be punished supposed to have it at the game. property or to school events to The statement also said services of CVR vice president information. He set a deadline of for being honest and handing a The security guard took be expelled for a year. But both school officials can’t discuss the Nathaniel Boe and $201,000 for Oct. 4 for HUD’s response. security guard a hunting knife the knife and allowed David allow for superintendents to details of any discipline case. work done by subcontractor HUD confirmed receipt of the that he forgot to remove from to enter. But several minutes make exceptions to the expul- Terri Lee, a former authority letter but declined further com- his pocket before attending the later, the high school principal, sion provision. Mary Neiderberger: mnie- employee. ment. football game Sept. 13. Michael Hower, sought out the Mr. DiLucente said he [email protected] or The letter also questioned the Mr. DiLucente said David, a boy in the student section and requested such an exception for 412-851-1866. role of former authority general SEE HUD, PAGE A-12

E-mail: [email protected]  Phone: 412-263-1601  Web: post-gazette.com/localnews  Editor: Tom Birdsong

C P M C P M G G Y K Y K C P M C P M G Sep 19 2013 11:13:34:916PM Post-Gazette G A-12 Y K Y K

A-12 PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTE  FridaY, SePteMber 20, 2013  WWW.POST-GAZETTE.COM Duquesne U. disputes piece on teacher’s death

professor, FROM a-9

“These individuals have “I thought her story expressed both outrage and should be told.” sadness that Margaret Mary — Daniel Kovalik, has been used in this way,” Mr. Plante said. about Margaret Mary Vojtko “Then there are those with no direct knowledge of the actual circumstances. They have also expressed outrage, using social media to attack formation community at Laval Duquesne based on their House on campus, where she acceptance of Mr. Kovalik’s resided for several weeks over published mischaracteriza- the past year,” he wrote. tions,” Mr. Plante added. Mr. Kovalik said Duquesne His message quoted a letter did not dispute what the FREUND from the Rev. Daniel Walsh, woman was paid or that she RACHEL A. university chaplain and direc- lacked benefits, and he balked Age 54, of Ross Twp., passed tor of campus ministry, who at the “agenda” claim. “Mar- away on Wednesday, September said he was left incredulous garet Mary supported that so- 18, 2013, while under the care of by the piece. He said its claims called agenda,” he said. “She the Good Samaritan Hospice in bore no resemblance to real- supported unionization.” Wexford. Born February 26, 1959 ity and accused the author of He called her a friend, in Pittsburgh, she was the being “sadly exploitative” for adding, “I thought her story daughter of Barbara Moore of use of an unfortunate death “to should be told.” Zelienople and the late Richard serve an alternative agenda.” Moore. Rachel was a strong Matt Hafley/Post-Gazette “I knew Margaret Mary Bill Schackner: bschack- advocate for individuals with well. When we learned of prob- [email protected], 412- Colin Calls at Cal Udisabilities. Former Secretary She worked of State for theColin Powell was the keynote speaker Thursday at the 2013 lems with her home she was 263-1977 and on Twitter: @ Pittsburgh Diversity and LeadershipMental Conference, Health Association sponsored of by the National Diversity Council, at the California University of invited to live with us in the BschacknerPG. Pennsylvania Convocation Center.Allegheny County, where she raised money to support people with disabilities to voice their opinions in the political arena. Rachel was recognized by the state for her success in assisting DOYLE individuals to vote. She also Senator demands data STEPHANIE M. successfully organized people Of Scott Township, on living in personal care homes to O'BRIEN Wednesday, September 18, 2013. advocate for an increase in their HUD, FROM PaGE a-9 HUD’sTHOMAS office of REGIS the inspector DevotedSteelers daughter of Mary E.tailgate and personal needs area allowance with to open earlier Sunday Agegeneral 68, adied copy on of theWednesday, letter. the late James L. Doyle; their state representatives. In her “No one has asked me for SeptemberAccording 18, at his to residence, CVR’s granddaughter of the late Mary free time, she enjoyed kayaking, anything at this time,” said afterinvoices, a long the and authority courageous in Jan- and JosephBy Lehosit Robert and Zullo Mary and cyclinging fans and to eithermaking use greeting Down- able to watch the Pirates as Garage. Mr. Binion, after the Post- battleuary of scrambled illness. He to was answer born an in Luke Doyle; niece of Rita and Pittsburgh Post-Gazette cards.town Above or Strip all, District she was parking a loving well as afternoon NFL action, Police plan to close all Gazette provided him with Pittsburgh,office of the Pennsylvania inspector general and Darrel Stark, Gerard Doyle, E. J. wife,areas mother, and take grandmother, the T to Heinz sister said Steelers spokesman Burt inbound access to the North the letter. “This is new infor- graduatedrequest forfrom information St. Mary ofon the its and Darlene Lehosit, Carolyn and and friend, who will be dearly Mount High School. Thomas was The Steelers official tail- Field or arrive after 6 p.m. to Lauten. Shore (except for emergency mation, and I don’t know any- development and moderniza- Andy Kovach, JoAnn Bodkin, missed and lovingly remembered. preceded in death by his son, Paulinegate zone,Yurko Stage and AE,Ann will Lehosit; open Inavoid addition traffic to snarlsher mother, from fans she The Steelers also said five vehicles) from 4 to 6 p.m., thing about it.” Roberttion work, S. O'Brien; notably parents, including alsoat survived 12:30 p.m. by Sunday many instead dear leavesleaving behind the 1:35 to p.m.cherish Pirates her lots will not be available to including ramps from the Fort He said that the author- WilliamMs. Lee’s and projects. Frances (Whalen) cousinsof 4 p.m. and forfriends. fans whoStephanie arrive memory,game, an her expected husband sellout of 16 Steelers fans until 6 p.m. even Duquesne Bridge, West End ity “will provide information O'Brien;A spokeswomanand brother, William for the F. wasearly a graduate for the 8:30 of p.m. Bishop game years,against Paul the Freund Cincinnati of Ross RedsTwp.; if they have a prepaid parking Bridge and Parkway North. as required by law and as O'Brien.inspector Tom is general’s survived by office his O’Connellagainst H. the S. in Chicago Falls Church, Bears, herat PNCthree Park. children, Nick Buls of pass. They are: Gold Lots 4, 5 LACH requested.” He added that the wife,declined Peggy comment. (Skillen) of 48 years; VAthe and team LaRoche said Thursday. College of Harrisburg,Admission Paul toFreund the tailgate and his and 6, Blue 10 Garage and the Robert Zullo:JESSIE rzullo@post- Post-Gazette’s stories had not four children, Ruth A. O'Brien, Pittsburgh. The Steelers She was are employed encourag in- wife,area Joscelyn is free andof Pittsburgh fans will and be West General Robinson Red 5 gazette.com.91, of Oakland, on Wednesday, spurred any change in author- SharonRich L. Lord: Maynard, rlord@post- Paul T. the printing industry most Jake Buls of Pittsburgh; her September 18, 2013. Beloved ity contracting practices. (Yvonne)gazette.com, O'Brien 412-263-1542 and William or R. recently at Geyer Printing. grandson, Eli Freund; her brother, wife of the late Mike Lach; loving Mr. Grassley also sent (Rebecca)Twitter @richelord. O'Brien; longtime Friends will be welcomed at Jeff Moore of Cranberry mother of Henry Lach, Theresa family friend, Randolph Maynard, LAUGHLIN MEMORIAL Township; her three sisters, (Don) Markowski, Joseph (Rita), Jr.; and nine grandchildren. CHAPEL, 222 Washington Road, Rebecca Linn and her Richard (Leslie) and Thomas Thomas is also survived by five Mt. Lebanon, Sunday from 4:00 companion, Mark of Nederland, CLASSIFIED OBITUARIES(Amy) Lach; proud grandmother siblings, Judith (Andy) Colucci, Cont.until 7:00 from p.m. Previous Mass of PageChristian CO, Sherry Floyd and her of Lisa, Michelle, Renee, Rachel, Mary Kay Barry, Colleen Burial will be celebrated in Saint husband, Carl of Prospect, Carole HENKE Jamie, Joseph, Heather, Christian MAI McNicholas, Michael S. O'Brien, Bernard Church, Monday morning Kalmbach and her husband, Keith RITA M. (TAFELSKI) and Kamryn; great-grandmother MARIE L. (THEILACKER) and Margaret J. O'Brien; and a at 10 o ’ clock. Interment in of Harmony; and six nieces and On Thursday, September 19, of 13; and daughter-in-law, Linda Age 96, on Wednesday, host of nieces and nephews. He Clarksburg, WV. If desired, nephews. She was preceded in 2013. Beloved wife of Henry Lach. Jessie was preceded in September 18, 2013. A lifelong retired from Columbia Gas of memorials may be made to death by her father, Richard A. Henke; loving mother of Charles death by her son, John Lach, and resident of Forest Hills. Beloved Ohio after 33 years of loyal Family Hospice, 50 Moffett Moore. Rachel's family will (Jacqueline) and David (Cindy) daughter-in-law, Rosemarie Lach. wife of the late Fred J. Mai; sister service. Tom was an avid Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15243. welcome friends on Friday from Henke; proud grandmother of Friends received Friday 2-4 p.m. of John S. (Lucille) Theilacker, Pittsburgh Steelers fan and loved www.laughlinfuneralhome.com 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the BOYLAN Jeffrey, Colin, Megan, Abby, Luke, and 6-8 p.m. at the ORION C. formerly of Forest Hills, and the spending time with his Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb FUNERAL HOME & and Emily Henke. Friends PINKERTON FUNERAL HOME, late Herman (Grace) Theilacker, grandchildren. Special thanks to CREMATION SERVICES, INC., received Sunday 2-4, 6-8 p.m. at INC., 1014 California Ave., affectionately known as “Aunt Dr. Ann Aring and staff, Riverside 324 E. Grandview Avenue, the SZAFRANSKI- EBERLEIN Avalon, 412-766-5600. A Mass of Mimi” to many nieces, nephews, Family Practice and Father Zelienople. A Memorial Service FUNERAL HOME, INC., 101 Christian Burial will be held 1:00 great-nieces, and great-nephews. Larussa and Sister Marie, St. will be held in her honor at 10 Third St., Carnegie. Interment p.m. Saturday, at Sacred Heart Marie was a former member of Matthias Catholic Church. a.m. on Saturday, September 21, private. Church, Emsworth. Interment to Forest Hills Presbyterian Church. Visitation will be held on Monday, 2013 at the English Lutheran Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb follow at St. Stanislaus Cemetery. Friends received WOLFE September 23, 2013 from Church, 200 E. Grandview www.pinkertonfuneralhome.net MEMORIAL, INC., Forest Hills 9:00-11:00 a.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m. Avenue, Zelienople, with Rev. HOAK Chapel, 3604 Greensburg Pike at SCHOEDINGER NORTH Robert A. Keplinger, officiating. A ARTHUR C. 412-731-5001 FRIDAY ONLY 5-8 CHAPEL, 5554 Karl Road, CELEBRATION OF RACHEL'S On Thursday, September 19, p.m. Private Family Service and Columbus, Ohio. A Mass of LIFE WILL BE HELD ON 2013, Arthur C., age 71, of interment. In appreciation for the Christian Burial will be celebrated MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, Crafton Hts. Beloved husband of compassionate care she at St. Matthias Catholic Church FOCER Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb on Tuesday, September 24, 2013 HENRY T. "TED" 2013 from 3:30 to 7 p.m. at the Judy A. Hoak; loving father of received, in lieu of flowers, Class Community Service Center, at 10 a.m. followed by burial in Unexpectedly, on Monday, April Ann Hoak; dear brother of memorials may be made to 4638 Center Avenue, Pittsburgh, Resurrection Cemetery, 9571 September 16, 2013, of Paul, Roy, Larry, Dan, Carl Hoak Asbury Health Center or Family PA 15213 (Oakland section). She North High Street, Columbus, Brentwood. Beloved husband of and Patricia Tewes. Services and Hospice. will be laid to rest at the Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb Ohio. Memorial contributions the late Gloria G.; loving father of interment were private. Allegheny County Memorial Park. may be made to St. Matthias Michelle T. (Stephen) Martini, Arrangements entrusted to In lieu of flowers, memorial Catholic Church, 1582 Ferris Rd., Christopher B., and Donna E. HERSHBERGER-STOVER INC. McCLAREN contributions may be made in her JOANN (LIEBRO) Columbus, Ohio 43224. Online (Kurt) Gerstel; proud Tedda of FUNERAL HOME, Crafton. If honor in support of Gilda's Club Age 77, of Mt. Washington, on condolences may be made to: Antonia T. (Cleon) Brown, desired, memorials may be made Western Pennsylvania, 2816 Sunday, September 15, 2013. www.schoedinger.com Elizabeth L., and Christine A. to the American Lung Smallman Street, Pittsburgh, PA Beloved wife of the late John Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb Gerstel; great-grandfather of four; Association, 810 River Ave., Suite 15222. Expressions of sympathy David McClaren, Sr.; loving brother of Nancy (the late Jim) 140, PGH., PA 15212. may be shared with Rachel's Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb mother of Robert, Jake, Nancy, PAGE Mohan and the late Albert, Jr. JOHN J., II family at: John, Jr., Judy, David, and Don; and Robert; also survived by www.boylanfuneralhome.com 32, of Titusville, PA, formerly of nieces, nephews, cousins, and HYATT sister of Tony Liebro, Nancy Baird, Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb MARY and the late Frank, Fats, Robert, Pittsburgh, died Wednesday, friends. Friends will be received Sept. 18, 2013, at his home, Peacefully on Monday, LOWRY Dolores Yeckel, and James; also at the JOHN F. SLATER JAMES MICHAEL following a lengthy illness. John September 16, 2013. Wife of survived by 10 grandchildren and 6 FUNERAL HOME, INC., 4201 Suddenly, on Tuesday, Sept. was the son of Jane Hamilton Harold Hyatt; mother of Harold great-grandchildren. Friends Brownsville Road, Brentwood, 17, 2013. James Michael Lowry, Page Johnson and the late John J. GALLOGLY (Jennifer), David (Vickie), Gerald, of Plum Boro, was the son of welcome Thursday and Friday, 2-9 15227 on Thursday and Friday DOROTHY B. (BOROWSKI) Charlene, and Deborah Hyatt; Page. Funeral arrangements by from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m., where a Ferdinand C. Lowry of Oakmont p.m. WM. SLATER & SONS, INC., GARRETT FUNERAL HOME in On Thursday, Sept. 19, 2013, of Godson, Brian Hickman; and the late Ethel Connors Lowry. (412-381-3345), Virginia Ave. and Blessing Service will be held on South Side. Sister of Florence grandmother of 12; and a host of Titusville. The former owner of gas stations Kearsarge St., Mt. Washington. Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb Friday at 8:30 p.m. Please send Shustock and the late Sylvester great-grandchildren, other family, condolences to: in Penn Hills and an Oakmont Mass of Christian Burial Saturday, (Buck), Deacon, Frank, and Joe and friends. Visitation September towing company, Jim was a Port 10 a.m. St. Paul of the Cross www.johnfslater.com Borowski; also survived by nieces PALMER Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb 22, 2-6 p.m. at HOUSE OF LAW, Authority bus driver for 12 years. Monastery. Interment Jefferson GEORGE FRANCIS and nephews. Funeral on INC. Service September 23, 11 He was the sunny middle child Memorial Park. Born on May 29, 1921, passed Saturday morning with a Mass of a.m. at Deliverance Baptist whose wit made his parents and www.slaterfuneral.com away on Tuesday, September 17, Christian Burial in St. Adalbert Church, Swissvale. siblings, and later his wife and Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb 2013. He is survived by Mary Church, Prince of Peace Parish at Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb children, laugh (or groan). A Jane Palmer, his wife of 70 years; 10:00 a.m. Private visitation at stalwart son and unfailingly MELLOTT and his four sons, Jerry (Mary), the request of the family. KERR generous brother, he was a RALPH ALVIN Larry (Sandy), Mark (Patty), and CHARLOTTE MARY Arrangement by the JOHN J. father who taught his children Age 81, of McMurray, formerly Kevin (Mariann); fourteen On Wednesday, September 18, GMITER FUNERAL HOME, LTD. how to change their own brakes of Wellsville, OH, passed away on grandchildren, Natalie Sandi, Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb 2013, Charlotte Mary Kerr, of and to call him in the middle of Saturday, September 14, 2013. Meredith Keller, Kelly Palmer, West Deer Twp. Beloved mother the night if they needed any kind Loving father of Alan Mellott and Amey Palmer, Ryan Palmer, of Karen (David) Geragi and of help; a grandfather who taught Brenda (Mark) Ruby; grandfather MaryClare Palmer, Kristin Palmer, Robert (Carol) Kerr; four his grandchildren to love without of Kelly, Holly Mellott and Emma Kevin Palmer, Mike Palmer, grandchildren and ten great FREUND HABERMAN restraint and never turned down Ruby. Ralph served during the Joe Palmer, Patrick Palmer, NANCY K. (KLENZENDORFF) -grandchildren. Friends will be RACHEL A. a babysitting opportunity; a Korean War in the U.S. Army and Jimmy Palmer, Matt Palmer, and Age 88, on Wednesday, received 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 Age 54, of Ross Twp., passed cousin who was the life of every after the Korean War in the U.S. Megan Palmer; and five September 18, 2013, of Carrick. p.m. Friday, September 20, 2013, away on Wednesday, September family reunion, with his poker Navy. His career as a pilot great-grandchildren, Kylie Palmer Wife of the late George J. 18, 2013, while under the care of at the ADAM SIEMIANOWSKI tournament and outrageous encompassed a life long passion Hewitt, Teagan Keller, Sophie Haberman; beloved mother of the Good Samaritan Hospice in FUNERAL HOME, 179 Starr Rd., poker-print shorts. A faithful for flying that included being a Keller, Tyler Palmer Plienis, and Thomas R. Haberman and the Wexford. Born February 26, 1959 Russellton, West Deer Twp. husband and a big man with a big corporate pilot for Westinghouse Cole Palmer Romeo. He is also late Susan (the late Dennis) in Pittsburgh, she was the Christian Funeral Mass will be heart, he was to his family the for over 30 years. As an survived by sisters, Doris Terek, Miller; cherished grandmother of daughter of Barbara Moore of held 10 a.m. Saturday, light in times of darkness. As one additional inclusion in his flying Patricia Huff, and Kathleen Kalna Bobyn and Katrina Miller; Zelienople and the late Richard September 21, 2013, at St. Victor of his 16 first cousins put it, he career, Ralph also flew NFL Daniels. George is preceded in beloved great-grandmother of Moore. Rachel was a strong RCC, Bairdford. Charlotte will be was a character and a man of scouts on behalf of the Pittsburgh death by his parents, John and Jayson and Noah. No visitations; advocate for individuals with laid to rest next to her beloved character. Jim, who was 62, is Steelers to review perspective June Palmer; and his sisters, service at the convenience of the disabilities. She worked for the husband, Charles J. Kerr, at Our survived by his wife, Cindy Lowry college draft picks during the Betty Bimle, and Pauline Cook; family. Arrangements entrusted to Mental Health Association of Lady of Hope Cemetery, Frazer of five years; daughters, Caryn Pittsburgh Steelers "dynasty" and his brother, Jack Palmer. Allegheny County, where she READSHAW FUNERAL HOME, Twp. For online condolences go (William) Scott of Monaca, Lisa y ears in the 70s. Funeral George was a native of raised money to support people INC., 1503 Brownsville Road, to: (Daniel) Lukaszewick of arrangements by BEINHAUERS, Johnstown, Pennsylvania and he with disabilities to voice their Carrick. Send condolences to: www.westdeerfuneralhome.com Greenfield, Christy Lowry of McMurray, PA, 724-941-3211. moved to Pittsburgh in 1947 to opinions in the political arena. www.readshawfuneralhome.com Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb Monaca, Jessie (Max Justus) Interment private. Please add or Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb complete his college education at Rachel was recognized by the Psalzgraf of North Hills, Michelle view tributes at: the University of Pittsburgh. He state for her success in assisting KRIEG (Nathan) Leya of Creighton, and www.beinhauer.com served in the U.S. Army during JOSEPH B. Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb individuals to vote. She also Stacey Pfalzgraf of Verona; son, World War II. George will be On Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2013, successfully organized people James Lowry, Jr. of Carnegie; 11 remembered as a devoted of Shaler Twp., age 90. Beloved living in personal care homes to grandchildren; brother, John C. O'BRIEN husband, father and grandfather HARTMAN husband of Susann (Moletz) advocate for an increase in their WAYNE MORROW (Jean Albert) Lowry of Shaler THOMAS REGIS by his family. He was an avid Krieg; loving father of Joseph E. personal needs allowance with Unexpectedly, on Wednesday, Township; sister, Patricia M. Age 68, died on Wednesday, Pittsburgh sports fan and is one Krieg; brother of John Krieg; also their state representatives. In her September 18, 2013, Wayne Lowry of Shadyside; and many September 18, at his residence, of a possible total of 36,683 survived by many nieces and free time, she enjoyed kayaking, Morrow Hartman, age 56, of loving nieces and nephews. after a long and courageous Pittsburgh sports fans who can nephews. Friends received Friday cycling and making greeting Avalon. Beloved son of the late Friends and relatives will be battle of illness. He was born in truthfully say that they were at cards. Above all, she was a loving Raymond W. and Ivy Mainwood 2 p.m.- 9 p.m. at the BOCK received at the BURKET-TRUBY Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Forbes Field on October 13, 1960 wife, mother, grandmother, sister Hartman; brother of Ray (Pat) FUNERAL HOME, LTD., 1500 FUNERAL HOME CREMATION graduated from St. Mary of the attending Game 7 of the 1960 and friend, who will be dearly Hartman of Bellevue, Fred (Sally Mt. Royal Blvd., Glenshaw. Mass & ALTERNATIVE SERVICES, Mount High School. Thomas was World Series and saw Bill missed and lovingly remembered. Mannis) Hartman of Ross, and of Christian Burial in Saint INC., 421 Allegheny Ave., preceded in death by his son, Mazeroski's walk-off home run, In addition to her mother, she Sheila (Frank) Gaysek of Wexford; Bonaventure Church Glenshaw Oakmont on Thursday, Robert S. O'Brien; parents, and were also at Three Rivers leaves behind to cherish her uncle of Emily Kemeter, Sarah on Saturday at 10 a.m. William and Frances (Whalen) Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb September 19, 2013 from 6-9 Stadium on December 23, 1972 memory, her husband of 16 O’Neill, Fred Hartman, John p.m. and Friday, September 20, O'Brien; and brother, William F. attending the AFC divisional years, Paul Freund of Ross Twp.; Hartman, Jeremy Gaysek, Alicia 2013 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. O'Brien. Tom is survived by his playoff game and saw the her three children, Nick Buls of Durham, and the late Brandy LACH A service will be held Saturday, wife, Peggy (Skillen) of 48 years; Immaculate Reception. During Harrisburg, Paul Freund and his Hartman; great-uncle of Ivy JESSIE September 21, 2013, 11 a.m., at four children, Ruth A. O'Brien, the last year of his life, George wife, Joscelyn of Pittsburgh and O’Neill, Noa and Mia Gaysek, Isla 91, of Oakland, on Wednesday, the funeral home. The family Sharon L. Maynard, Paul T. was a resident of Asbury Place. Jake Buls of Pittsburgh; her and Merrin Durham, and Henry September 18, 2013. Beloved suggests memorial donations (Yvonne) O'Brien and William R. George's family wishes to grandson, Eli Freund; her brother, Kemeter. Friends received wife of the late Mike Lach; loving may be made to the American (Rebecca) O'Brien; longtime acknowledge and thank the Jeff Moore of Cranberry Sunday 2 p.m. until time of mother of Henry Lach, Theresa Diabetes Association, 100 W. family friend, Randolph Maynard, caring staff of Asbury Place for Township; her three sisters, funeral service at 6 p.m. at (Don) Markowski, Joseph (Rita), Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, Jr.; and nine grandchildren. the assistance they provided to Rebecca Linn and her SIMONS FUNERAL HOME, Richard (Leslie) and Thomas PA 15219. Visit us online at: Thomas is also survived by five George and his family. Friends companion, Mark of Nederland, INC., 7720 Perry Hwy., Ross. (Amy) Lach; proud grandmother www.burket-truby.com siblings, Judith (Andy) Colucci, welcome Friday 7-9 in WILLIAM CO, Sherry Floyd and her Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb of Lisa, Michelle, Renee, Rachel, Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb Mary Kay Barry, Colleen SLATER FUNERALCont. on Next SERVICE Page husband, Carl of Prospect, Carole Jamie, Joseph, Heather, Christian McNicholas, Michael S. O'Brien, (412-563-2800) 1650 Greentree Kalmbach and her husband, Keith and Kamryn; great-grandmother and Margaret J. O'Brien; and a C M C M Rd., Scott Twp. Mass of Christian of Harmony; and six nieces and P of 13; and daughter-in-law, Linda host of nieces and nephews.P He G G Burial Saturday 9:30 a.m. in Saint nephews. She was preceded in Y K Lach. Jessie was preceded in retired from ColumbiaY K Gas of Elizabeth Ann Seton Church. The death by her father, Richard A. death by her son, John Lach, and Ohio after 33 years of loyal family asks that in lieu of flowers, Moore. Rachel's family will daughter-in-law, Rosemarie Lach. service. Tom was an avid donations be made in George's welcome friends on Friday from Friends received Friday 2-4 p.m. Pittsburgh Steelers fan and loved name to the Alzheimer's 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the BOYLAN and 6-8 p.m. at the ORION C. spending time with his Association, Greater FUNERAL HOME & PINKERTON FUNERAL HOME, grandchildren. Special thanks to Pennsylvania Chapter, 1100 CREMATION SERVICES, INC., INC., 1014 California Ave., Dr. Ann Aring and staff, Riverside Liberty Avenue, Suite E-20 I, 324 E. Grandview Avenue, Avalon, 412-766-5600. A Mass of Family Practice and Father Pittsburgh, PA 15222, Zelienople. A Memorial Service Christian Burial will be held 1:00 Larussa and Sister Marie, St. v/ww.alz.org, or Asbury Place, will be held in her honor at 10 p.m. Saturday, at Sacred Heart Matthias Catholic Church. 760 Bower Hill Road, Pittsburgh, a.m. on Saturday, September 21, Church, Emsworth. Interment to Visitation will be held on Monday, PA 15243, 2013 at the English Lutheran follow at St. Stanislaus Cemetery. September 23, 2013 from www.asburvheights.org Church, 200 E. Grandview www.pinkertonfuneralhome.net 9:00-11:00 a.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m. Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb Avenue, Zelienople, with Rev. at SCHOEDINGER NORTH Robert A. Keplinger, officiating. A CHAPEL, 5554 Karl Road, CELEBRATION OF RACHEL'S Columbus, Ohio. A Mass of LIFE WILL BE HELD ON Christian Burial will be celebrated MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, at St. Matthias Catholic Church 2013 from 3:30 to 7 p.m. at the Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb on Tuesday, September 24, 2013 Class Community Service Center, at 10 a.m. followed by burial in 4638 Center Avenue, Pittsburgh, Resurrection Cemetery, 9571 PA 15213 (Oakland section). She North High Street, Columbus, will be laid to rest at the Ohio. Memorial contributions Allegheny County Memorial Park. may be made to St. Matthias In lieu of flowers, memorial Catholic Church, 1582 Ferris Rd., contributions may be made in her Columbus, Ohio 43224. Online honor in support of Gilda's Club condolences may be made to: Western Pennsylvania, 2816 www.schoedinger.com Smallman Street, Pittsburgh, PA Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb 15222. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with Rachel's family at: www.boylanfuneralhome.com Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb C P M C P M G Nov 22 2013 11:19:13:560PM Post-Gazette G A-1 Y K Y K

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$1.00 227 YEARS OF SERVICE SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2013 VOL. 87, NO. 115 11/23/13  final . Progress Let it shine, let it shine seen in Iran nuclear talks Kerry on the way to Geneva again in hopes of nailing down accord

By Roy Gutman McClatchy Newspapers GENEVA — Secretary of State John Kerry flew to Geneva on Friday night in a bid to conclude an accord with Iran over its nuclear pro- gram, a first step to a compre- hensive agreement intended to prevent Iran from acquir- ing a nuclear weapon while easing punitive international sanctions that have been imposed on that country. The State Department said Mr. Kerry decided to make the trip after consulting with the European Union’s foreign pol- icy chief, Catherine Ashton, Rebecca Droke/Post-Gazette and the U.S. negotiating team. The wording of the State From left, Andrea Stynchula of Wilkins, Stehanie Wolfarth of Swissvale and Catherine Hickey of Wilkins enjoy Light Up Night Downtown on Friday. Department’s announcement — it said Mr. Kerry’s goal was “to help narrow the differ- ences and move closer to an agreement” — indicated that a deal was not yet in the bag, Illuminating hoopla draws a crowd and it appeared possible that his trip here would not result in an agreement. By Amy McConnell packing the square, was to me with the countdown.” Nearby, twin gas-fueled Internationale fireworks Schaarsmith count down with him before Joining in, the crowd torches atop the gate to finale — even drew people SEE iran, PAGE A-4 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette he flipped the switch on dutifully counted down, Forbes Avenue roared giant like 36-year-old Tammie 150,000 lights and a 30-foot- and the lights burst into flames periodically, prompt- Kitt of Uptown, who hadn’t At Market Square for Fri- high lighted sphere tree. view along the glass office ing people next to them to planned to come. day’s Light Up Night kick- “It doesn’t matter what windows lining the square, startle and scream. After picking up her two off, Santa was in a forgiving you’ve done all year — pulsing along with a pound- All the hoopla — from grandchildren and a young mood. tonight you go on the nice ing rock beat that soon the tree lighting at PPG niece from her daughter’s Developer: All they had to do to list,” Santa told them. “All merged into a Jeff Jimerson Plaza to jazz and blues con- house, she met her mother redeem themselves, he you have to do is show your mini-concert that repeated certs all over Downtown, to City agency told members of the crowd Pittsburgh pride and help itself every half hour. ice carving and a Zambelli SEE light up, PAGE A-3 withholding funding

By Rich Lord and Robert Zullo Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Nation pauses with JFK on minds A bid to fix up low-income apartments in Hazelwood and Squirrel Hill has exposed a rift From Dallas to Cape Cod, the 35th president of the United States between the Housing Author- ity of the City of Pittsburgh and the managers of the Hill is remembered on the 50th anniversary of his assassination District’s largest community. The authority board’s vote By Jamie Stengle anniversary event, issuing 5,000 Thursday to seek new fund- and Nomaan Merchant free tickets and erecting a stage ing for the Glen Hazel Family Associated Press with video screens. Community, Glen Hazel High Somber remembrances Rise and Murray Towers High DALLAS — It was the same extended from Dallas to Cape Rise — but not for the Hill Dis- time, 12:30 p.m., Friday, Nov. 22. Cod, with moments of silence, trict’s Oak Hill development It was the same place, downtown speeches by historians and, — also surprised advisers to Dallas. above all, simple reverence for a Mayor-elect Bill Peduto, who But 50 years later, the thou- time and a leader long gone. said they weren’t told of the sands of people who filled Dea- “We watched the nightmar- panel’s meeting. ley Plaza weren’t there to cheer, ish reality in our front yard,” Authority executive direc- but instead to remember in quiet Mr. Rawlings told the crowd, tor Caster Binion said that sadness the young, handsome which assembled just steps from the decisions he’s making are president with whom Dallas will the Texas School Book Deposi- entrepreneurial and sound. always be “linked in tragedy.” Associated Press photos tory building where Lee Har- “The housing authority is a The solemn ceremony presided vey Oswald fired from the sixth public agency, but to be able to over by Mayor Mike Rawlings THEN — Women on Nov. 22, 1963, (left) burst into tears outside Parkland Hospital in Dallas floor at Kennedy’s open-top lim- survive we work as a business, was the first time the city had upon hearing that President John F. Kennedy had died. NOW — Women pause for the final organized an official Kennedy prayer at a ceremony Friday (right) at Dallas’ Dealey Plaza, the site of the assassination. SEE kennedy, PAGE A-6 SEE housing, PAGE A-3 Verdict ends 34-year odyssey for victim’s brother Penn State compensation

Gregory Scott Jury convicts Bridgewater ex-councilman Hopkins, panel couched in secrecy in 1979 strangulation of Monaca woman 67, waits Friday for the By Bill Schackner after Friday’s decision by trust- verdict in his and Mark Dent ees that the new panel will not set By Kaitlynn Riely cussed in testimony, was the trial for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette those pay levels by public vote. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette “painful” part, he said. 1979 death Penn State also declined to say But the verdict Friday, in of Catherine UNIVERSITY PARK — Amid if all compensation approved by The not knowing, for three which a Beaver County jury Janet Walsh legislative efforts to bring it fully the committee would be treated decades, who had killed his big decided that Gregory Scott under the state’s public records as public information, as would sister and why, was the “hor- Hopkins, 67, a former Bridge- in Beaver law, Penn State University cre- be required of an institution fully rible” part, said Francesco water councilman, was guilty County. Mr. ated a compensation committee covered by Pennsylvania’s Right- Caltieri. of third-degree murder in the Hopkins was Friday to set pay for its president to-Know Law. The trial, in which 23-year- Monaca woman’s 1979 death? found guilty of and other top executives includ- In an interview after the board old Catherine Janet Walsh’s That, finally, after 34 years, third-degree ing salary and incentives. of trustees met, trustee Keith murder by strangulation was murder. But officials of the state’s flag- shown in pictures and dis- SEE hopkins, PAGE A-2 Lake Fong/Post-Gazette ship public university suggested SEE psu, PAGE A-3

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PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTE  SaturdaY, NoveMber 23, 2013  WWW.POST-GAZETTE.COM A-3 Multitude New PSU compensation turns out panel couched in secrecy for annual psu, FROM PAGE A-1 finish degrees, Penn State spokes- est salaries. woman Lisa Powers Friday called Pitt also is not fully covered by Eckel, whose committee on the surcharge standard higher Right to Know. But a trustee com- governance recommended education practice and said the pensation committee there votes festivities the new panel, suggested University of Pittsburgh, Temple publicly each year on all compen- that only compensation poli- University and the State System sation paid to the chancellor and cies will be set in public. He of Higher Education have similar to deputies, and it releases the fig- light up, FROM PAGE A-1 further suggested the panel policies. ures immediately. would go no further in releas- She said few students take 19 Mr. Eckel noted creation of the and came back Downtown to ing pay information than dic- credits and a surcharge would compensation committee was see the sights. Michael Henninger/Post-Gazette tated by the Sunshine Law. discourage those who might motivated less by Right to Know “I came for the food — what- A group of fourth- and fifth-graders from Pittsburgh Spring “I’ve got to think about register for courses “they don’t pressure and more by governance ever smells good to me,” she Hill tug on Santa Claus’ beard at a lunchtime tree-lighting what Sunshine requires,” he really intend to complete.” concerns and the Freeh report. said, laughing. ceremony Friday at the City-County Building, Downtown. said. “When it is a person- On Friday morning, in a ses- Also at Friday’s meeting, the Hilda Faith, her face partly nel matter, Sunshine doesn’t sion prior to the board meeting, board agreed to hire Holly J. covered by the faux fur and red cover that. But if it’s not a former Sen. George Mitchell, Gregory, a partner in the New nose of an antlered Rudolph into a carriage ride, but you tine, 15, and Domenic Raspanti, personnel matter and it’s any- the university’s athletics integ- York law firm of Weil, Gotshal hat she bought at Kennywood, know,” Ms. Patterson said, 17, both of Upper Burrell, angled thing with philosophy then it rity monitor, said for now Penn and Manges LLP, as a consultant couldn’t smell much because of prompting Tyler to shake his a cell phone at arm’s length to will be in the public session.” State is unlikely to get a further on proposed trustee governance her headgear. But she loves hats head in a polite but serious “no get a picture of themselves with Meanwhile, Penn State Fri- reprieve from NCAA sanctions changes including a reduction in — this was one of the three she way.” the skating rink and its giant day defended a recommenda- imposed in the wake of the Jerry board size. had brought — and anyway it Nearby, the heavy rhythm Christmas tree in the back- tion discussed during a com- Sandusky child molestation scan- Trustee chairman Keith was useful, she said. of a busker’s bass drum battled ground. It was Victoria’s first mittee meeting Thursday to dal. But at his upcoming annual Masser appeared to head off a “This can be kind of annoy- with Bing Crosby singing “Let time at Light Up Night, and she add a 50-percent tuition sur- report next September he said he board squabble related to its ing, but it’s keeping me warm It Snow” from a store’s audio and Domenic planned to visit charge on credits beyond 18 could propose more reductions to troubled presidential search tonight,” said Ms. Faith, of system, piped onto the street. all the attractions. taken by a student in a semes- the sanctions as part of a multi- by announcing the addition of Washington, Pa., who had come Bubbles, drifting like snow The best part so far, she said, ter. It is among 45 recommen- phased process if Penn State con- alumni-elected trustee William with her husband and seven on a breeze that chilled as the was seeing all the gingerbread dations to alter price poli- tinues to improve its oversight Oldsey to the selection council. other family members to see the night went on, flowed up the houses made by children, youth cies that also include tuition and governance. The move follows ongoing tree lighting and fireworks and street from Market Square past groups and schools, including increases for more costly or Asked by trustee Alvin Clem- complaints that the panel did not to ride the Duquesne Incline. a grainy 1960s-era Christmas one fashioned to look like PNC in-demand majors, a $500-per- ens about a lifting of the football adequately represent insurgent Vicki Patterson, her boy- movie that no one seemed to Park. semester fee for international bowl ban, Mr. Mitchell said it was alumni trustees elected to the friend Ken Spalla and his notice playing on the brick wall “There’s just so many, and students and flexibility that premature to discuss specifics. board amid fallout from the San- 10-year-old son, Tyler, all of of an office building. they’re all ages, too,” Victoria could let Western Pennsylva- A number of legislators sup- dusky scandal. The move also Baldwin Borough, were plan- “I’ll get it for you,” a young said. nia campuses facing enroll- porting Right to Know bills cov- came a day after complaints that ning on hot chocolate, looking man told his girlfriend, grab- “I did it as a kid, so it’s neat to ment losses charge less. No ering Penn State say they believe not all trustees are being briefed at the holiday window unveil- bing and popping one of the see,” Domenic said. vote on them was taken. strongly that the public should on the search spilled over into a ing at Macy’s, checking out the bubbles as they walked toward Reacting to trustee and know what the university com- trustee committee meeting. ice sculptures and enjoying the PPG Plaza. “Really, I’m going to Amy McConnell Schaarsmith: state legislator concerns that pensates individual employees, A statement posted to Penn fireworks. get one.” 412-263-1719 or aschaarsmith@ a surcharge past 18 credits including top executives, given State’s website Friday said Mr. “And I’m trying to talk him At the plaza, Victoria Augus- post-gazette.com. might slow students trying to the tax dollars it receives. Oldsey’s addition is intended “to Unlike schools covered fully by bring a fresh perspective to the Right to Know, Penn State need search process.” not disclose what it compensates any of its thousands of employees Bill Schackner: bschackner@ for months. When it does, total post-gazette.com, 412-263-1977 Developer accuses agency of withholding funds compensation must be disclosed and on Twitter: @BschacknerPG. only for university officers and Mark Dent: mdent@post-gazette. the five highest-paid non-officers, com, 412-439-3791 or on Twitter @ housing, FROM PAGE A-1 wallets,” said Mr. Byrne, who If the community is to shift to the trains have already left the as well as the university’s 25 high- mdent05. has been pushing the housing Section 8 status, allowing the station,” he said. and we make business deals,” he authority to submit a RAD appli- developer to borrow much more “This housing authority is said. cation since August. “They kept money, he said there’s one big in full support of the transition Oak Hill’s developer accuses saying ‘We don’t have it.’ ” question: “How does this benefit team,” he added. “Everything the authority of diverting $3 mil- In 2012, Mr. Byrne said, HUD Oak Hill?” they need, I’ll give them.” lion annually from Oak Hill to gave the housing authority nearly He said the authority is “nego- Kevin Acklin, who is heading other developments. Mr. Binion $6.5 million in subsidies for Oak tiating the final deal” governing the transition and will be Mr. said that his decisions on fund- Hill’s low-income housing units. whether to apply to get Oak Hill Peduto’s chief of staff, called the ing are “for the public good in The authority passed about $3.25 into the program. housing authority “really the order to continue to build afford- million on to Beacon/Corcoran Kept at arm’s length from the only authority that we haven’t able housing.” Jennison, he said, and kept half talks, so far, is the incoming city found any significant coopera- “It sounds to me just like the of the money despite the fact that administration, which takes over tion with.” pure greed of money,” said Larry it is not involved in managing in January. Mr. Byrne worried that the Blair Jr., 46, a car salesman who the property or even processing Valerie McDonald-Roberts, authority may have already is president of the Oak Hill Resi- tenant applications. who is Allegheny County’s man- missed a chance to lock in fund- dents Council. Mr. Binion countered that ager of the Department of Real ing for Oak Hill in the face of The authority board voted to the authority helped to secure Estate and will be Mr. Peduto’s likely deep cuts in subsidies for ask the U.S. Department of Hous- up-front funding needed to build chief urban affairs officer, met low-income public housing. ing and Urban Development to Oak Hill, and has spent “tens of with Mr. Binion on Wednesday. HUD assistance to local hous- shift the two Glen Hazel proper- millions” in support of it. “He did give me some expla- ing authorities was cut by about ties and Murray Towers from He said that there was noth- nation about the pros, cons and 18 percent for 2013 and could take low-income public housing to ing wrong with receiving more nuances of Section 8 versus low- a bigger hit next year as a result what’s called project-based Sec- than $1,100 from HUD for each of income public housing,” she said, of federal sequestration, Mr. tion 8. Oak Hill’s low-income units, and and he noted that three commu- Byrne says. The 292 units in the three com- passing around $600 to that com- nities were slated to make the Mr. Binion said it’s not too late. munities would still be owned munity. switch. “He did mention Oak Hill He said HUD may seek to expand and managed by the author- “We understand the costs to was not going to be one of them.” the RAD program to 150,000 ity. But because they would be operate a development,” Mr. Bin- He did not tell her that the units, giving Oak Hill a shot — if funded under HUD’s Section 8 ion said. He said that Beacon/ board would vote on the pro- a deal can be reached. program, rather than its low- Corcoran Jennison “probably” gram the following day. “I didn’t “We will continue to negoti- income public housing program, gets more per unit than other pri- know there was a meeting on the ate,” he said. the federal subsidies would likely vate developers of public housing following day,” she said. “Abso- “We’ve done everything we be insulated from budget cuts, in the city. lutely, I would have gone. possibly could to work with authority executives said. The authority spends the rest “I also mentioned that large them,” said Mr. Blair. “They’re The funding would be guar- of the money on maintaining and contracts and controversial really working against us and I anteed for 20 years, and could building other low-income hous- issues should be put on hold,” she don’t understand why.” be renewed for another 20 years, ing, he said. said. allowing the authority to borrow Though the housing authority Mr. Binion said authority deci- Rich Lord: rlord@post-gazette. against it to fund renovations. isn’t “breaking the rules,” it has sions are made largely based on com, 412-263-1542. Twitter @ “It basically restores the units to misrepresented the amount of HUD rules and time lines. richelord. Robert Zullo: rzullo@ make them long-term viable for money it gets for Oak Hill from “So many things we’re doing, post-gazette.com or 412-263-3909. the future,” authority chief finan- the federal government and is cial officer Ed Mauk said. using it as a “cash cow,” Mr. The shift is possible under Byrne said. HUD’s new Rental Assistance If Oak Hill went through the Demonstration, or RAD, pro- RAD program, Beacon/Corc- gram. But HUD has authority to oran Jennison could raise money convert only 60,000 units nation- to repair porches, carpeting, ally to Section 8, and the agency cabinets, appliances and heating is already in receipt of applica- systems, Mr. Byrne said. He also tions for 76,000 units. wants to hire a mental health LOWEST Considered for the application, social worker to help residents, but yanked from the board’s reso- and more maintenance staff. lution, was privately run Oak Without the RAD financing, Hill, which has 475 low-income Oak Hill will eat through its public housing units and 243 mar- reserves in about four years, he ket-rate units. Oak Hill occupies said, jeopardizing its ability to the site of the former Allequippa lure market-rate tenants. CHEVY Have yourself Terrace housing project. “We are slowly going down, Mr. Blair said the Oak Hill not up,” Mr. Byrne said at a resi- PRICES ANYWHERE Resident Council voted unani- dents’ meeting last month. a very merry mously in September in favor of “We both agree that there are RAD status. Putting three other some places in which they need communities ahead of Oak Hill is improvement,” said Mr. Binion. North Huntingdon 855-208-4566 Cranberry 855-215-4527 “outrageous,” he said. breakfast For years, the authority met requests to help fund mainte- nance, security and programs with Santa! like after-school child care with short arms and deep pockets, Enter to win the Ho ho ho – it’s off to Macy’s you go! Join jolly old St. Nick for according to Miles Byrne, project director with Beacon/Corcoran Holiday Cash Giveaway an unforgettable buffet meal of breakfast favorites including Jennison, which runs Oak Hill. French toast, bacon, eggs, fruit, juice and more – then score “Every time we submitted a One lucky winner will receive the grand prize of $5,000 and three first prize winners a seat at our holiday show, Virginia’s Magical Christmas. budget, you would think we were will receive $1,000. Look for the entry form every day in the Post-Gazette And, before you leave, be sure to pick up a special gift* for pulling money out of their own from now until December 10. Winners will be announced in the paper on Sundays. all the little ones to take home. It’s sure to be an event you won’t want to forget, so remember to pack your camera and, corrections of course, your wishlist! &clarifications Macy’s Downtown Pittsburgh Page One. Nancy Dickerson 11th Floor Auditorium began working as a correspon- dent for NBC in 1963. An essay November 30 at noon** in Friday’s editions on Lyndon December 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 and 22 Johnson’s transition to the presi- at 10 a.m. dency misidentified her network. No purchase necessary. Deadline is Wed. at 2 p.m. each week. Deadline for grand prize drawing is Thurs., Dec. 12 at 2 p.m. Photocopied or mechanically produced entries will not be considered. Complete contest rules available in the Post-Gazette lobby. If you have a correction and Seating is limited. For more information and to reserve your cannot reach the responsible re- spot today, call 877-556-2297. Tickets are 19.95 per person; porter or editor, please call the Holiday Cash Giveaway Official Entry Form 13.95 for children under 10; free for children under 12 office of David M. Shribman, months of age. executive editor, 412-263-1890. ______NAME AGE ™ ______ADDRESS CITY Sun-Telegraph/The Pittsburgh Press ______Copyright 2013, PG STATEZIP CODE PHONE Publishing Co. Pub- lished daily and Sun- ______day by PG Publishing Co. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is EMAIL ADDRESS (OPTIONAL) Check here if you do not wish to receive emails from the Post-Gazette. a federally registered trademark and service mark. All-Access digital plus 7-day home delivery for Mail entry form, one per envelope to: Holiday Cash Giveaway, $5.95 a week; All-Access digital plus Sunday P. O. Box 1618, Pittsburgh, PA 15230 or drop in the home delivery for $2.95 a week. — Call Events subject to change or cancellation. *While supplies last. 1-800-228-NEWS (6397) or go to Post-Gazette contest box at 34 Blvd. of the Allies. post-gazette.com/pgdelivery **This will be a lunch buffet.

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